Ian Poulter has moved up to fifth place in the world after the biggest win of his career at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship.

Poulter defeated fellow Englishman Paul Casey 4&2 in the final in Arizona to win his first event on American soil.

The eight-time European Tour winner was four up on his compatriot after a strong start to the 36-hole final at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club.

Casey refused to lie down and reduced the deficit to two down during the early stages of the second round.

However, Poulter held on to close out victory and become the first Englishman to win the prestigious tournament.

The win brought a cheque for $1,400,000 while Casey had to be content with a second successive final defeat following last year's disappointment at the hands of Geoff Ogilvy.

"I've had an interesting ride from a lot of people's point of view of how I present myself on the golf course, as opposed to how well I can actually perform," Poulter said.

"This to me is very pleasing to be able to be in that position now. I guess five in the world stands for more than just what I wear on the golf course."

Meanwhile, Camilo Villegas thrashed Sergio Garcia 5&4 in a disappointing consolation match.