BBC Sport's Ken Brown explains the rules and strategy of matchplay.

The approach in matchplay is generally more aggressive than normal, as players go for birdies to win holes outright.

Under normal stroke play conditions players would avoid making mistakes by laying up short instead of trying to drive a water hazard for example.

Matchplay golf is often dictated by how your opponent plays.

If they play a poor shot, you play differently, perhaps with a club less and definitely more conservatively.

This can also work the other way.

Staying ahead

A great shot can transfer the pressure onto your playing partner, who might blast a shot way off target trying to follow suit.

You are constantly thinking about how to stay one step ahead.

This also comes into your plan on the putting green when thinking about when to concede a shot.

You can concede a shot at any time but it is normal practice to 'give' a shot inside two feet.

Some players though will force opponents to putt from inside that distance because they are often missed in the heat of battle!