VIRGINIA WATER, England, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- European Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance pulled off a big surprise and produced one of the top achievements of his distinguished career Friday when he defeated Vijay Singh on the last green to reach the semifinals of the Cisco World Match Play Championship.
Torrance joined Padraig Harrington, Lee Westwood and Ian Woosnam in the semifinals of a tournament that was weakened when all the Americans invited to play withdrew because of the international situation.
Westwood, the defending champion, defeated Thomas Bjorn, 1-up, to set up a semifinal meeting with Woosnam, who added to an excellent season by beating Colin Montgomerie, 4 & 3.
Harrington ousted Darren Clarke, 5 & 4, and will play Torrance in the semifinals.
Torrance, 48, received a late invitation to play with Canada's Mike Weir also withdrew. Harrington is coached by Torrance's father.
"I wish my father hadn't given Padraig all the secrets," Torrance said. "I am sure my father is very proud of what he's done for Padraig and Padraig knows it too. He appreciates it. He's a world class player now.
"Obviously, I am very proud of what I did today. It was a great win. It's not as good as winning a golf tournament, but it's as good a singles win as I've had."
Torrance reached the turn in 30 strokes during the afternoon round of the 36-hole match.
Woosnam, 44, is another player drawing on past triumphs for inspiration.
"I'm tired," Woosnam said. "But a full massage tonight and I will be fine for my match with Lee. I am enjoying it. I am not under pressure at all because I suppose people didn't expect me to win. I just went out there and played."
