Singapore: Malaysia withstood a spirited Singapore fightback to retain the Media Causeway Cup.

With Sentosa Golf Club acting as a fitting venue for the 12th edition of the annual contest, the outcome in the Ryder Cup-style match play event went down to the wire.

All square 3½ – 3½ after the opening-morning foursomes on the New Tanjong Course, the visitors claimed 4½ points out of seven from the afternoon fourballs to build an 8-6 advantage heading into the day two singles.

Battling hard, the Singapore team clawed their way back into contention with a gutsy display on the Serapong Course at Sentosa, a Golf Course Facility Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

However, there was to be disappointment for the hosts. Despite winning eight of the 14 singles matches to tie the overall score at 14-14 it was Malaysia who took the trophy back across the causeway by dint of the fact that they were defending champions.

“Our team played their hearts out. It was a fantastic match,” said Singapore Captain Darryl Wee.

“We are grateful to Andy Johnston and his team at Sentosa Golf Club for allowing us to play their two outstanding courses – a real treat. Special thanks also to Maybank, Cobra Puma Golf, FootJoy and MST Golf for their generous support for what has become a highlight on the golfing calendar for media representatives in both Singapore and Malaysia,” added Wee.

Malaysian Captain Arep Kulal said: “The teams were evenly matched and it went all the way down to the wire.”

Next year’s event will return to Malaysia when, for the first time, Ipoh will be the venue.