MATTHEW Southgate finished seven over par after a disappointing final round at the 147th Open Championship.

The Southend-born professional golfer, who finished in sixth place at last year’s competition, got off to a fine start with an opening round of 69.

Southgate would have been dreaming of a final result similar to the one he enjoyed at the Open 12 months ago but the Thorpe Hall Golf Club member required more shots as the contest progressed at the Carnoustie course.

Efforts of 72 and 73 followed in rounds two and three respectively in Scotland.

However, Southgate still went into the final day in a promising position as he was one over par with just 18 holes remaining.

But Southgate required 77 strokes in the final round yesterday, which resulted in him finishing six over par for the day and seven over par overall.

As a result, the 29-year-old finished tied for 67th place alongside six other competitors in the latest PGA European Tour event.

Meanwhile, Francesco Molinari was crowned the winner of the 147th Open Championship.

The Italian was able to triumph after finishing eight over par.

Molinari finished two shots clear of Justin Rose, Rory McIlroy, Kevin Kisner and Xander Schauffele, who tied for second place.