Adam Long sunk a 13-foot birdie putt to pip fellow American Phil Mickelson to the Desert Classic title in California.

Mickelson was two ahead of the chasing pack going into the final day at La Quinta, but a clean round of 65 was enough for Long to take the honours.

The rookie set out his intention early with two birdies on the first two holes as he reached the turn on three under.

Two further birdies on the 14th and 15th pushed Long into contention with the putt on the 18th sealing the deal by a single stroke.

Mickelson finished 25 under for the tournament and carded a 69 on the final day to share second spot with Canadian Adam Hadwin, whose dropped shot on the par-3 13th proved costly.

Talor Gooch carded the best score of the day with a 64 bringing him up three places to finish fourth.

Scot Russell Knox went around on 69 to finish on 16 under and tied for 18th, while England’s Justin Rose fell five places to tied 34th with a round of 70.