COLCHESTER touring professional Dale Whitnell was in excellent form at the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.

The 32-year-old finished tied for fourth at a wet Mount Juliet Estate, alongside Grant Forrest and Francesco Laporta, Richie Ramsay and Richard Bland.

Tiptree-based Whitnell finished with a round of 69 on the final day to end up on 14 under par.

He had earlier shot rounds of 67, 67 and 71 to put himself in contention, for the competition.

The Forrester Park Golf Club pro registered 20 birdies, one eagle and eight bogeys overall.

Australia's Lucas Herbert was victorious at the event to register his second European Tour title with a three-shot victory.

The world number 91 carded a four-under 68 to finish 19 under and three clear of nearest challenger Rikard Karlberg.

Johannes Veerman finished third a further stroke back, following two late bogeys.