Billy Foster's top five strategy tips

Matt Fitzpatrick's caddie shares his favourite advice for amateur golfers

- Kit Alexander

1. Correct club selection

Get to know your carry yardages and work on the average, rather than the one in ten you might hit out the sweet spot. I’d always recommend hitting one club more and swinging it smooth if you’re ever in doubt. You’ve got to factor in the slope, weather conditions and temperature. Even if each of those things is only making two or three yards difference, that adds up to a full club more.

You’ve also got to look at your landing area. If the green is firm, land it short of the flag and allow it to release, whereas if it’s soft you can carry it the whole way. Also, what kind of slope is it landing on? A downslope will kick it forward and an upslope could kill it. You also need to take the pin position into account, especially if there are hazards involved. For example, if the pin is at the front of the green with water short, you’re looking to land the ball at least five yards past the pin so you’ve got some margin for error.