Perthshire's Connor Graham goes unbeaten in Rome to help Europe lift Junior Ryder Cup

Perthshire golfer Connor Graham went unbeaten across three days in Rome to help Europe win the Junior Ryder Cup.

The 16-year-old teamed up with Ireland’s Sean Keeling in Tuesday morning’s opening foursomes and staged a dramatic comeback against Jay Leng Jr and Billy Davis.

The European pair were six down at the turn but, incredibly, recovered to earn a half point.

Later that afternoon, also in foursomes format, Connor joined Rocio Tejedo to half with Anna Davis and Billy Davis.

The same players faced off in the Wednesday fourball where Connor and his Spanish partner impressed to secure a 3&2 triumph.

Europe led 12 points to six heading into the singles on Thursday, which were played over the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club - the same venue as the actual Ryder Cup.

Connor was out early against Jay Leng Jr and held his nerve on the 18th to card an impressive birdie to claim victory.

That the local rising star has reached the heights of the Junior Ryder Cup has come as no surprise to fellow Blairgowrie member and family friend Phil McKenna.

Phil has been out in Rome to watch Connor this week, along with proud family and friends.

“It was a proud moment watching him tee off this week, especially with Stevie Gallacher as captain who has been there, seen it and done it before as we know,” said Phil.

“We’ve always thought Connor had what it takes to become an elite player. It’s been fantastic being around his progress with his dad Stuart and mum June. Seeing him represent his country and continent at this level has been so amazing.

“It’s been amazing watching Connor’s progress and, as he has matured, we’ve watched him hitting the ball further with more club head speed over a very short space of time.

“He works really hard on