Andy Roberts is determined to destroy his rivals this Saturday afternoon as he bids for a third successive Roberts Golf title at Pirbright's tranquil Par-3 course.The 22-year-old attended a press conference in front of the media yesterday brimming with confidence in his red Nike cap and white shades.
The single-figure handicapper has been in devastating form of late with rounds of 65 and 69 at his local course in Hersham, and he owes much of that success down to his new Srixon WR irons.
"I feel extremely confident with my short irons right now and I believe that will give me a huge advantage going into this weekend," said Andy.
"I played a practice round last week with James and Chris and I will head down there again tomorrow to make my final preparations."
Andy is the clear favourite with the bookmakers and his odds have tumbled in the past few weeks after a host of withdrawals.
American residents, Dave and Gareth have sadly not made the flight over the pond, with other absentees including veteran Bob, who some players have named as 'the greatest player never to have won the Roberts Golf', and John who is currently out of the game with a neck injury but we wish a speedy recovery.
There has also been plenty of banter this week among members of the family on who they believe will win.
Bob has quashed any belief that Andy will win his fifth title and said: "I understand Andy is feeling the pressure of being clear favourite and I forecast a big upset."
"My spies tell me Doug is plotting the return of his name back on the cup and that Pete also fancies his chances, but my bet is going on Chris."
In response, Andy made it clear this will certainly not happen.
"I have a lot of respect for Uncle Bob but I am not quite sure what he is talking about, but all I can say is that his spies have obviously not been watching me this month," said Andy.
Andy's younger brother, Chris, who is hotly fancied to become the youngest ever player to win the trophy, has also been hitting form at the right time.
The 12-year-old who finished second place at his school's stableford tournament last month, said: "I know the odds are stacked against me this weekend but I believe if my brother does slip up then I will have some sort of chance."
"It is great that Bob has faith in me but I just want to give myself an opportunity on the back nine.
"However, a top four place is my goal."
One player a few punters have also touted for this week is record-holder James.
The 51-year-old who has returned fresh from a two-week holiday in Tenerife has won this coveted prize eight times and although he has kept a low profile this week he still believes he can match his eldest son shot-for-shot.
"I came very close last year on this course and lost in a play-off to Andy so who knows what might happen," said James.
"I feel a bit like an Arsenal football fan right now though because I have been waiting a long time for some silverware.
"If I can get off to a fast start and get myself into the final group for the final nine holes, then I am confident I can win my ninth Roberts Golf."
Finally, Matt will be hoping to cause a shock to the form book as he attempts to win his first ever tournament. Matt will looking to make sure he clears the ladies tee off the first this time.
It promises to be a fantastic day of golf and you can see all the action live on Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports 1 HD from 3pm on Saturday.
Stay tuned for Monday's review of the action.
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