On the clock: match play tips

Golf Digest, Sept, 2003

With the LPGA's Solheim Cup scheduled for Sept. 12-14, now's a good time to brush up on some of the rules differences between match play and stroke play. Be aware that if you're playing a match with your weekend group (like a nassau), your score must be posted for handicap purposes. See section 5-1c of the USGA Handicap System Manual.

* In match play there's a one-stroke penalty for moving an opponent's ball at rest other than during a search. In stroke play there's no penalty. The ball is replaced. (Rule 18-3, 18-4)

* In stroke play you have to hole out. In match play a stroke may be conceded by your opponent. (Rule 2-4)

* In stroke play there is no penalty for playing out of turn. In match play the player farthest from the hole can make the person who hit out of turn replay the shot. (Rule 10-1)

* In stroke play if your ball is on the green and your next shot strikes another ball on the green, it's a two-stroke penalty. There's no penalty in match play. In either format the ball that is struck is moved back to its original position. (Rule 19-5)

* In match play you may practice on the course the same day as a tournament. In stroke play practicing on the course before or between rounds results in disqualification. (Rule 7-1)

* In match play you don't have to keep a scorecard. In stroke play, you are required to keep the correct score for each hole, but not the total. (Rule 6-6)