American John Merrick captured his maiden PGA Tour victory in winning the Northern Trust Open and in the process he earned an invitation to the Masters.

Merrick defeated Charlie Beljan in a play-off after both players had finished regulation play tied on 11-under par.

Both players then pared the first extra hole, the par four 18th before heading to the 10th where Merrick seized the $ 1.1m prize cheque with a par.

Merrick became the first Los Angeles area player to win the prestigious event.

John Merrick captures his maiden PGA Tour title in winning the Northern Trust Open. (Photo – www.pgatour.com)