NICK Dougherty was walking on air today after his stunning finish ensured England retained the World Boys' Team Championship in Japan.

The 17-year-old Shaw Hill ace reeled off an eagle and two birdies over the last four holes in an incredible finish to help England claim the covetted title by two shots from America.

And his four-under-par total of 282 also secured the individual award for the former QEGS pupil by a sensational four-stroke margin.

"It's not so much elation as relief were feeling," said his dad, Roger, who heard the news via a telephone call yesterday.

"He had to do something this year because of all the people who are watching him now.

"They're expecting results and, after a few near misses, it had started to get a bit worrying.

"But this is the biggest win of his life so far.

"They don't come any bigger at this level than being the World Boys' champion.

"I've never known him to be so excited.

"He's usually so laid back over the 'phone but he was 10 feet off the ground when I spoke to him.

"And now he has the luxury of being able to concentrate on his game for the rest of the year rather than having to worry about results."

Two-over after 15, England's anchor man suddenly realised he needed to produce something special after team coach Roy Case informed him America had closed the gap to one shot.

And Dougherty didn't disappoint, reeling off an eagle, a birdie and a par over the next three holes before sinking an 18 foot putt on the final green to sign off with another birdie and a round of 70.

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