A determined Padraig Harrington believes he can still end the year as Europe's number one but admits time is running out and victory at the Singapore Open this week is essential.

The three-time Major winner lies 16th in the Race to Dubai, over €1-million behind leader Lee Westwood with only five tournaments left.

He knows he needs to perform.

"I need a big run and that means winning two and finishing high in the other of my last three events," said the Irish world number six.

"If I am going to do that then I may as well try and win all of them. It is possible, but a very long shot."

The last two months have seen Harrington emerge from a slump in form triggered by major swing adjustments and he has finished inside the top 10 three times in his past four events.

He has only won once this year, at the Irish PGA in July, and is desperate to get back on the winners' dias, saying not winning was making him anxious.

"These things happen but you can't push it. I just have to put myself in position and let it happen," he said.

"I am anxious to win but that doesn't help the situation — I need to be easier on myself and let it happen.

"There is nothing that I can do any different. If I keep doing what I have been doing for the last few weeks then it will happen sooner rather than later."

Harrington finished joint second last year in Singapore, behind Indian winner Jeev Milkha Singh.

He was coming off two Major wins then and said this year was different.

"Last year I had a good season coming here and I was nice and relaxed coming here after the wins, but this year I have a bit more intensity about trying to win because I don't want to end the year without another one," he said.

"I was in a much better position last year than this year."

Also working against him this year is the Sentosa Golf Club course, with softer greens and tighter pins.

He admits he preferred the layout in 2008.

"I think that last year's course suited me better. This year it is tighter off the tees and the rough is a lot thicker, especially close to the fairway," he said.

"Last year the course was firmer and the greens were firmer. It suits the straighter hitters this year, while I am a guy who will take a few more risks and a few more chances and won't necessarily hit all the fairways and greens."

He feels the course is more suited to consistent players but insists he will be in the title race come Sunday.

"I've played well the last three months but without a win," he said.

"It's nice to be playing well but I really want a win."

AFP

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