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Wetterich's withdrawal prevents Monty-Rose clash

11/02/2008

The 2007 European number one golfer Justin Rose has avoided a first-round clash with eight-time Order of Merit winner Colin Montgomerie in the opening round of the Accenture World Match Play Championship.

The two Britons were due to meet each other in the first round of the Arizona tournament, however Brett Wetterich's withdrawal means that Montgomerie will now face Rory Sabbatini while 2007 European number one Rose plays Brendan Jones.

Wetterich pulled out of the competition due to a shoulder injury - while the only other non-starter among the world's top 64 is Ernie Els.

If this is still the case at next Monday's official draw then there will be two all-European matches on the opening day of the tournament.

Nick Dougherty will face Martin Kaymer, while Ian Poulter takes on Miguel Angel Jimenez.

The winner of Poulter and Jimenez's clash will then play Open champion Pagraig Harrington – if he defeats Colombian Camilo Villegas.

In the other quarter-final current world number one Tiger Woods will meet fellow American Anthony Kim in the first round, while reigning champion Henrik Stenson will challenge Jerry Kelly.

Meanwhile, Colin Montgomerie has lent his support to Donald Trump's proposed £1 billion golf course in Aberdeenshire.

"I think it can only raise standards, so I encourage that investment within Scotland and within the game of golf," he told BBC Radio Scotland.

Planning permission for the resort is currently the subject of an inquiry at the Scottish parliament after it was rejected by a single vote at council level.