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(AP) - Nick Watney salvaged a dismal season with a victory Sunday at The Barclays that was timely in so many ways.

Watney turned a two-shot deficit against Sergio Garcia into a three-shot lead in four holes around the turn at Bethpage Black, and then hung on to close with a 2-under 69 and capture the opening playoff event for the FedEx Cup.

Watney won by three over Brandt Snedeker.

Watney is assured a shot at the $10 million prize at the Tour Championship next month.

Winning against one of the strongest fields of the year also puts him in the conversation as a captain's pick for the Ryder Cup.

Davis Love III will select four players after next week's tournament outside Boston. Garcia shot 75 and tied for third.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)