O'Malley Putting With His Eyes Closed

Glenn Jackson explains master ball striker Peter O'Malley's current method of putting, which has him one back heading into the weekend at the Australian Open.

''The advantage I get is knowing where to hit tee shots,'' O'Malley said. ''I've got no advantage on the greens because I've got no idea what they're doing sometimes.''

He misread several putts yesterday but has certainly improved on the greens, largely thanks to his quirky technique, which he introduced to his game last year. O'Malley did not miss any putts from two metres or less yesterday, all of which he undertook with his eyes closed, which means he can be more aggressive with his putting.

''It takes away the visual anxiety,'' O'Malley said. ''I am not seeing what the putter is doing so I don't feel any anxiety over it. I just close my eyes and let it flow.''