Woods continues to struggle as streak ends

ORLANDO, Florida (Reuters) -- Tiger Woods's bid for a fifth straight Bay Hill Invitational title ended in miserable fashion on Sunday when the world number one shot a one-over 73 in the final round to finish on even-par 288, 18 off the leader.

Playing in his eighth Bay Hill as a professional, Woods was trying to continue a consecutive victory streak that began in 2000.

However, after a promising five-under-par 67 start, he tumbled through the field over the next three rounds with a combined five-over score.

"I get up there and hit shots like I did most of this week off the tees," Woods said.

"The problem, as I said yesterday, is my bad shots. I'm making bogeys, double; I'm in water or out of bounds or something like that, unplayable shots.

"If I can get my misses a little bit more under control, then I should be all right."

Woods finished in a tie for 46th, well behind winner Chad Campbell for his sixth worst finish as a professional and his lowest since he tied for 56th in this event five years ago.

Woods' three over-par rounds was a personal record for a non-major tournament in his career.

With only one event between himself and the Masters, Woods's game does not appear ready for the rigours of a major championship, but the player is a strong believer in his abilities.

"I'm excited about the things I've improved on," he said. This is one of my best driving weeks I've had all year.

"My iron game was absolutely horrific, but if I can hit it closer, I'm putting well, just get it a little closer and roll it in."

Copyright 2004 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.