Michael Campbell triumphed in a three-way play-off at Portmarnock

Michael Campbell of New Zealand has won the Nissan Irish Open after a three-way play-off at Portmarnock.

Campbell, who had endured a miserable spell recently, tied with Thomas Bjorn of Denmark and Sweden's Peter Hedblom on 11 under par after the 72 holes.

IRISH OPEN LEADERBOARD (GB&Ire unless stated) -11 T Bjorn (Den), M Campbell (NZ), P Hedblon (Swe) -9 D Lynn -8 G Owen, S Struver (Ger) -6 P Lonard (Aus), R Karlsson (Swe)

The play-off was delayed for 40 minutes because of a thunderstorm but when it got underway the 34-year-old Kiwi produced a brilliant second shot on the first play-off hole, pitching to just 18 inches from the pin.

Bjorn and Hedblom missed with their outside birdie opportunities, leaving the stage clear for Campbell's winning putt.

"It has been a long time and it was hard. Thomas played great today and I managed to get lucky on the last hole," Campbell said.

"I felt very comfortable, even though I have not been amongst the leaders for 13 months or so.

"I would like to thank my coach, my family and my friends. Three years ago my parents saw me win the New Zealand Open so it was nice for them to see me win again.

"Portmarnock is definitely one of the best tournaments I have played in. The whole foundation, everything about it makes it a wonderful week."

England's David Lynn, who shared the third round lead with Bjorn and Campbell, finished joint fourth with British Masters champion Greg Owen on nine under.