STEVE Richardson looks to capitalise on his best finish for a year when the European PGA Tour moves to Celtic Manor today for the Wales Open.

The three-times European Tour winner finished in a tie for 47th place in last week's Scandinavian Masters with a four-under-par aggregate.

In the process Richardson virtually trebled his meagre £1,400 earning for the season and reminded everyone that, despite several lean years on the tour, the magic touch is still there.

A second-round 66 at Barseback last Friday contained eight birdies and significantly Richardson, who was always noted for his long driving, sacrificed length for accuracy off the tee - and it paid off. It's a ploy he'll be tempted to try again at the tight Celtic Manor.

Other Hampshire hopefuls Justin Rose and Matt Blackey will also be in a field headed up by Europe's latest Ryder Cup hopeful Ian Poulter from Luton - who is Rose's best pal on the Tour.