Match Play

Match Play is golf at its simplest: win the hole, win the point.

Instead of worrying about total score, you compete hole by hole. One bad hole does not ruin the round. It just gives your opponent something to talk about.

What is Match Play?

Match Play is a hole-by-hole Side Game.

The player or team with the lowest score on a hole wins that hole. If the hole is tied, the hole is halved and no points are awarded.

How does Match Play scoring work?

Each hole is worth a point.

Win the hole to gain a point.
Lose the hole to lose the point.
Tie the hole and no points are awarded.

Unlike Skins, tied holes do not carry over.

What settings can I adjust?

Match Play settings may include:

Individual or team play
Players or teams
Starting and ending holes
Betting units or point values
Press settings
Auto press settings
Stroke or handicap options
Team scoring options

Team scoring options may include:

Use the best score
Add the scores from all players

Available settings may vary by app version and round setup.

How do I start a Match Play game?

To start Match Play:

Start a round in 18Birdies.
Add the players who will be part of the round.
From the GPS screen, tap the Group icon.
Tap Add Side Games.
Select Match Play.
Choose the players or teams.
Review the game settings.
Tap Start this game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do tied holes carry over in Match Play?

No. Tied holes are halved.

No points are awarded for a halved hole.

Can Match Play be played with teams?

Yes, where available.

Teams may use best score or combined score depending on the setup.

What is a press in Match Play?

A press increases the action by adding another match or increasing the value of holes, depending on your settings.

Can I use handicaps in Match Play?

Yes, if stroke or handicap settings are available during setup.

Can I change Match Play settings after starting the game?

Yes, where available.

From the GPS screen, tap the Group icon, tap Game Details, tap the three-dot menu, tap Game Settings, then tap Modify.

Available settings may vary once the game is in progress.

What do the dots above the scorecard mean in Match Play?

The dots above the scorecard show handicap strokes given during Match Play.

They indicate where a player receives strokes based on the match settings, player handicaps, and hole handicaps.