The Japanese star looked to have the title in hand after four straight birdies to open, but the chasing pack applied pressure on the back nine. Higa’s lead was trimmed to one heading to the last, where drama unfolded as Lee found water off the tee and Vincent a fairway bunker. Higa stayed steady, laying up and getting up-and-down for par to seal a one-shot victory.

Lee (67) and Vincent (68) shared second at 17-under, with Hong Kong’s Taichi Kho and Thailand’s Danthai Boonma a further shot back.

“It got a little tough… there were a few missed shots and a lot of pressure on the back nine. I’m glad my game held up. It’s the first time I have won an event twice,” said Higa, now an eight-time Japan Tour winner.

Vincent birdied the final two holes to consolidate his lead on the Asian Tour Order of Merit, while Lee was left to rue his late slip despite a strong final round.

The Asian Tour heads to Chinese-Taipei next week for the Yeangder TPC at Linkou International.