Charl Schwartzel defends Joburg Open.

South Africa’s Charl Schwartzel ground out a four shot win to successfully defend his Joburg Open title, with rounds of 68,61,69 and 67 to collect the €206,050 first prize.

The World Number 32 was never at his best from tee to green during his final round, but some remarkable up-and-downs helped him finish 19 under par, four ahead of fellow South African Garth Mulroy.

Schwartzel said " It sounds easy, but I've been working really hard on my pitch shots, bunker play and chipping and it helped me when I needed it most today."

Darren Clarke put in another steady performance to finish in a share of 20th place on 6 under par. Gareth Maybin was in great shape after a 2nd round of 64 left him 9 under par and in contention for the title, but he failed to produce the same golf over the weekend and faded down into a share of 27th after rounds of 72 and 74.

Challenge tour player, Colm Moriarty from Athlone put up a fine display to finish in 49th place on 1 under par, having made the 4 under par cut by 1 shot.