Rock returns to scene of maiden triumph

Defending champion Robert Rock has fond memories of his BMW Italian Open presented by CartaSi last year – and hopes he can repeat the trick to kick-start a strong finish to the 2012 season.

The Englishman captured his first European Tour title at Royal Park I Roveri 12 months ago and has since added the ABU Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, although his form has dipped mid-season following swing changes.

“I’ve been reliving the last round in my head quite a bit this week,” said Rock. “The week after I qualified for the US Open, so it was a good couple of weeks.

“I’ve take quite a bit of time off to practise hard in the last two or three weeks. Then I came here and had a slight problem in my back – I think just from sleeping badly.

“I scored well in the Pro-Am this morning, even though my swing was a little uncomfortable. The driver was a little difficult on the follow-through, but I’ll dose up on painkillers and get through.”

“I enjoyed it for a few weeks just being on a roll after the win (in Abu Dhabi). Then I made the mistake – or not really a mistake – of trying to revamp my driver swing, and that prompted a dip in form. I maybe should have tried to do it when I had time off.

“The last few months have been very average, but give me a decent run of tournaments and I’ll be back to form. I’m looking forward to the run-in and early next season, having recently seen the new schedule.”