David Howell admits his expectations for this week’s Africa Open have risen following his runner-up finish in Johannesburg last week.
The Englishman narrowly missed out on forcing a play-off with compatriot Andy Sullivan at Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club on Sunday, but did have the notable consolation of securing an Open Championship spot at St Andrews.
And the former Ryder Cup star hopes his performance can also be the catalyst for success at East London Golf Club this week.
“It’s the best I’ve played in well over a year,” said five-time European Tour winner Howell. “I hit the ball beautifully, all departments of my game were in great shape, and I hit some good shots on the stretch, so I’ve come away with a lot of confidence.
“I was fully thinking about winning the tournament and I gave myself an eagle chance, which I was delighted to give a go at the last.”
To walk away with the €166,058 winner’s cheque, Howell will have to become the first non-South African winner of the event, a run stretching back to 2010.
The 39 year old will also have to adapt to a very different course and conditions in the coastal city.
“It’s a unique little course this one,” he added. “When the wind is pumping it has good protection, and it’s a great course. I’m really looking forward to a very different challenge from last week.
“It suits my game and I’m in good form, so I’ve got high hopes for another positive week.
“You need a bit of luck with the wind, because there is a chance that the afternoon winds drop. I’ve certainly got a nice draw, playing with Andy Sullivan and George Coetzee - that will be a nice TV group and it’s good to be back in the limelight. I earned that privilege from my performance last week and that’s satisfying.
“Hopefully this is a stepping stone to being up there more and more. I’m hitting the ball really nicely and swinging the club well, so I really do want to be up there.
“Andy (Sullivan) is a great example of that. He was in the hunt many times last year and finally got the win at the start of this year and things have snowballed from there. If you hang onto Andy’s coattails at the moment then you’re doing alright.
“Certainly after the way I played last week, I feel like my game is in the best condition it’s been in many a year.”
