Pavan getting expert help at Valderrama

Andrea Pavan's biggest cheerleader could prove to be his greatest asset his week as the Italian tees it up at Real Club Valderrama for the first time at the Estrella Damm N.A Andalucía Masters hosted by the Sergio Garcia Foundation.

Pavan's victory at last week's BMW International Open will be remembered not only for the brilliance of the shot that brought the play-off win over Matthew Fitzpatrick but also the exuberant celebrations on the 18th green between Pavan and his caddie Alejandro Molina.

The Argentinian has been making plenty of friends on the European Tour this season with his football skills and joy when Pavan is successful but Molina is also a seriously good bagman and this week returns to the scene of possibly his greatest moment 22 years ago.

He was the caddying for Italian great Costantino Rocca on the Sunday of the Ryder Cup at Valderrama and while most of the scoreboards were turning red, Rocca and Molina took down Tiger Woods as Europe beat the United States by a single point.

That experience could be invaluable as Pavan takes on one of the Race to Dubai's toughest tests for the first time, and the now two time European Tour winner is delighted to have Molina on the bag.

"My caddie knows this course very well, he's caddied here lots of times," he said.

"He caddied for Rocca against Tiger Woods in the singles match at The Ryder Cup in 1997. He's been here a lot of times so it'll be a nice help to have him on the bag.

"I'm really enjoying playing this course. I've heard so much about it, I've watched it on TV and it really didn't disappoint so far.

"This week it's all about staying focused and not wasting too much energy. I'm really enjoying it, the weather is great. It's a good challenge this golf course so you ned to be sharp.

"It's a tough course for everyone and it really seems to reward good iron play which is my strength so I'm looking forward to keeping the form going."