Australian Bryden Macpherson has earned a place at the British Open after winning the 166th British Amateur Championship on Saturday.

Macpherson defeated Scot Michael Stewart 3&2 in the 36-hole final against Scotland's Michael Stewart at Hillside Golf Club near Liverpool to secure his place at July's Open Championship at Royal St George's as well as gaining an invite to the Masters next April. The Open Golf betting odds will make him an outsider, but the experience will stand him in good stead for the future.

The 20-year-old is currently studying at the University of Georgia and becomes only the second Australian to win the Amateur Championship after Doug Bachli since its inception in 1885. The Victorian got off to a shaky start in the final, losing the opening hole of the match to his Scottish opponent but fought back, winning both the sixth and ninth to secure a lead that he would maintain until sealing victory on the 34th hole.

"I can't believe it just yet. It feels pretty good to bridge the gap of 57 years. I hope there are a few proud Aussies having a barbeque," he said.

After taking the lead, Macpherson controlled the match as Stewart struggled on the greens, missing a number of short putts as well as pushing a number of shots into deep rough leaving the Australian in the position to solid golf in order to win the title and seal his place at St George's. Those who bet on 2011 the Open will be interested to see how he gets on.

In defeat, Stewart was disappointed about his performance but was full of praise for the Champion. "I didn't play well today. I was dire, this morning. I don't know what it was. I just didn't feel comfortable over the ball," explained the 21-year-old.