England’s Daniel Smith rallied from behind to claim his maiden Betway Big Easy Tour win, thanks to a final-round 70 at Akasia Golf Club on Friday.

His total of seven-under-par 209 proved enough for the Englishman to walk away with a one-stroke win over Wandre Snyman. Smith’s final round featured five birdies and three dropped shots.

“Today was stressful, actually,” admitted Smith. “I started the round a couple behind and then it got quite tight towards the end of the front nine. I thought I was there or thereabouts with a few holes to play, and it’s always stressful. So, I am happy to not make too many mistakes coming in.

“Personally, it’s just nice to get it done. Once you’ve been close and you’re not getting it done, it’s a bit of a monkey on your back. But, once you get it off, hopefully, I can push on from here.”

Smith’s win follows a series of strong performances on this Sunshine Tour development circuit, making this victory even sweeter for the Englishman.

“I am happy to get it done because I have had a few close ones over the last couple of weeks,” said Smith of his recent form.

Despite his gallant effort which yielded a superb 68 in the final round, Snyman will make do with a second-place finish again this week, having lost in a play-off against Ruben van der Berg at ERPM Golf Club.

Toto Thimba Jnr also showed his class this week and his final-round 71 helped him to a solo third on a tournament total of five-under-par 211.

Another player who showed up this week and gave a solid account of himself was the big-hitting Christian Kriek. Rounds of 72, 69 and 72 earned him a share of fourth with the winner of the first event, Jordan Wessels. Wessels is having a fairytale start to his rookie season as a professional.

The 21-year-old boasts a win already and lies second on the Order of Merit and has consistently challenged for victories, perhaps a sign of things to come from the GolfRSA graduate.