O'Briain is the Master at Slieve Russell

Neil O'Briain posted rounds of 69/68 (-7) to win the Slieve Russell Masters Pro-Am for the third time in four years.

In doing so the Old Conna professional joined an exclusive list of three-time champions that includes Ryder Cup star Eamonn Darcy and David Higgins (Waterville Links)

The 31-year-old O'Briain opened his campaign with a three under par 69 that left him four shots off the lead held by Higgins who fired a brilliant opening round 65 (-7) on Monday.

With four shots to make up, Neil came out of the blocks fast in round two and birdied his opening hole, the par four 10th. He added two more birdies over his opening nine holes to reach the turn in three under 33.

The Dubliner collected three more birdies on his back nine but also dropped shots at the fifth and seventh to come home in one under 35 and finish the tournament on seven under.

Overnight leader Higgins couldn't match his superb play of day one and a second round 73 (+1) saw him drop out of the lead and ultimately finish in a tie for second alongside Michael McGeady (70/68)

The team prize was won by Simon Thornton (Tulfarris Golf Resort) and amateur partners Bill Hanley, Barra O'Dwyer and Pat Barrett who finished the 36 holes with 186 points.

Slieve Russell Masters Pro-Am at Slieve Russell Golf & Country Club (Par 72)

Leading scores

1        Neil O'Briain  (Old Conna GC)                          69/68            -7

T2      Michael McGeady  (Evolve Golf Coaching)         70/68            -6      

T2      David Higgins  (Waterville Golf Links)               65/73            -6

4        Colm Moriarty  (Glasson Hotel & GC)                73/66            -5      

T5      Simon Thornton  (Tulfarris Golf Resort)             67/73            -4      

T5      Damian Mooney  (Damian Mooney Golf)            69/71            -4      

7        Richard Kilpatrick  (Banbridge GC)                    75/67            -2

8        Mark Staunton  (Delgany GC)                            75/70            +1