Golf-Stricker in bitter-sweet mood after another last day slip

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

PACIFIC PALISADES, California, Feb 22 (Reuters) - American Steve Stricker was left with a bitter-sweet taste in his mouth after surrendering the outright lead late in the final round of the Northern Trust Open on Sunday.

Two ahead with two holes to play, Stricker narrowly missed a birdie putt at the 17th before bogeying the par-four 18th at Riviera Country Club to finish one stroke behind winner Phil Mickelson.

It was the second time in his last three PGA Tour starts he had blown a lead in the final round, having squandered a three-stroke advantage at the Bob Hope Classic four weeks ago.

"It's kind of bitter-sweet," Stricker, 41, told reporters after closing with a four-under-par 67 for a 14-under total of 270.

"I'm happy that I'm putting myself in those positions to try to win golf tournaments but I'm also disappointed I haven't won one of them or maybe both of them. So it's good and bad.

"Again, it's early in the season for me," added the Wisconsin native. "I've just come out of the snow last week and to play like this when I do come out is encouraging. Hopefully, it leads to bigger and better things the rest of the year."

At the Bob Hope Classic, Stricker signed off with an ugly 77 in the final round after dropping seven shots in two holes around the turn.

At Riviera, however, he was delighted with his form on the last day.