British duo take positives

Casey fades at finish Rose salvages some pride

Paul Casey and Justin Rose both believe the Masters can be an important step on the road to becoming major winners.

Casey, who was joint third with a round to play, had to settle for a share of sixth place after a closing 74.

"I handled the nerves very well," he said after his Masters debut: "I was nice and relaxed. This gives me a real taste for it. It's been fantastic."

Rose, leader by two after the first and second rounds, recovered from his third round 81 with a 71 and finished 22nd.

"I just went awol on Saturday," he admitted.

"There are a lot of positives to take out of the week and all-in-all it has been a good week, but it was a rollercoaster and the third round cost me the chance of winning a major.

I feel I can win this tournament some day if I keep learning and keep plugging away. Paul Casey

"Maybe you have to lead a couple before you can win one. I have learnt a lot. Leading a major was new ground and that will stand me in good stead."

Casey was paired on the final day with Ryder Cup captain Bernhard Langer, who moved into the lead on the front nine, but fell back after a double bogey seven at the 15th.

"I didn't hit bad shots under pressure, but the putts didn't drop. Maybe it was tough to follow up two good rounds with another one," said the young Briton.

"But I feel I can win this tournament some day if I keep learning and keep plugging away."