Tiger stays positive after early exit

Tiger Woods went home early from his first tournament back after eight months out through injury but still found plenty of positives.

South Africa's Tim Clark ruined Woods' comeback from knee surgery by inflicting a 4&2 defeat on the world No1 and defending champion at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship in Arizona.

Yet despite losing in the second round to a player ranked 32 places below him, Woods (right) found lots to encourage him as he continues his build-up to the Masters in April.

"I'm very pleased with the way I hit the golf ball," said Woods. "Also my leg feels pretty good. No pain at all."

Five Englishman made the third round, with Ian Poulter holding his nerve to overcome Charl Schwartzel, claiming a decisive birdie at the 17th to win by one hole. Paul Casey, Ross Fisher , Oliver Wilson and Luke Donald also triumphed but Lee Westwood, tied after 18, lost to Stewart Cink on the fifth extra hole.