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Poulter preparing for title challenge
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Poulter preparing for title challenge

Ian Poulter aims to bounce straight back from the disappointment of relinquishing his Barclays Singapore Open title at the UBS Hong Kong Open.

Ian Poulter

Poulter appeared well-placed to retain his title at Sentosa Golf Club, but a series of putts missed by the narrowest of margins and Adam Scott eventually claimed victory in Singapore on Monday.

But despite missing out, Poulter is determined to overcome the loss of one title in the Far East by capturing another.

"Very disappointed - disappointing week," said Poulter, reflecting on a tournament that lasted five days after weather disruptions.

"Really should have capitalized on the good shots I hit. My score was no reflection on how I played - 14 birdie opportunities, after the fourth hole, which was my last birdie.

"I had nine chances in the last 14 holes from inside 18 feet. Not to make one of those is more than disappointing. A sixth place finish is not acceptable in my book."

Poulter faces a stiff task as he aims to conquer a field that includes US Open Championship winner Graeme McDowell, World Number Ten Rory McIlroy, defending champion Gregory Bourdy and former US PGA and Open Champion John Daly.

But The Ryder Cup star insists the Hong Kong Golf Club course is well suited to his game.

"The course is in good shape. Probably the best I've seen it since playing here three or four times," said the WGC - Accenture Match Play winner.

"Very much looking forward to it, a golf course that I enjoy. It's positional golf, pretty tight, and I think that suits my game.

"You can shoot any score on this golf course, if you really get it going, take advantage of the par fives that you can reach in two, and also take advantage of some of the short fours."

But Poulter admits Hong Kong has more to offer than just a great golf course.

"It's nice to stay in the city," he said. "There's lots to do - great restaurants, great shopping. It's a fun place to come.

"It's on the Asian Swing for me and it's a good golf course. I've always played it well. That to me is my first point - is it a good golf course? Yes. Have I played well there? Yes. Good in the evenings. Can't beat it."

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