HOT shot Phil Archer tee'd off 1998 in fine style as he won two tournaments and claimed a runners-up spot in the first week of competition.

The Birchwood assistant won the James Chorlton trophies in the first Manchester Alliance event of the year before coming second in the Compsty Winter Series Pro-Am at Fairhaven.

The Fairhaven winner was another Warrington golfer - Anthony Sproston, who boosted his campaign to retain the Manchester Golfer of the Year title with an one-under par 71 round.

Archer's final success came when he teamed up with his Birchwood boss Paul McEwan to win the PGA four-ball at Royal Liverpool.

It was the dream start to 1998 for McEwan who has been newly invested as county captain.

Archer, pictured right, has already won a place on the European Tour school for this year with his successes in 1997.

He said: "It was a great way to get the year going. I seem to play better in the wind so the weather conditions suited me fine.

"I'm looking forward to starting a few European Tour events this year and being involved in the British Tour. Hopefully, it'll be a good year."

Archer is to spend some time practising his swing in the sunny climes of Dubai before getting his season underway in earnest.

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