It's the start of the Ryder cup today at Medinah country club in Chicago. Europe have won 4 of the last 5 Ryder cups and although the USA will have an home advantage, I think the odds for Europe does offer a bit of Value. More and more europeans are now playing on the PGA tour, so they are used to the american courses and crowds. Luke Donald actually lives in Chicago and is at home on the Medinah course. Europe also have the world number 1, Rory Mcilroy, and if you look through their team, they are all steady players tee to green, which will be vital for the foursomes matched. donald and Garcia are unbeaten in foursomes and they face Mickelson and Bradley. Mickleson has had a bit of an up and down year and this is Bradleys first Ryder cup. You can get even money on Donald and Garcia winning their match.
One pairing that has come as a bit of a suprise to some people is Westwood and Molinari. Now I have to admit, I totally agree with Olazable that foursomes require players who are solid tee to green, and you don't get much better that Westwood and Molinari. Both great ball strikers and straight hitters, if they can role in a few putts then I think they have a great chance of winning.
Day1 - Disappointing day Europe after such a great start early on in the foursomes. The USE were just brilliant in the afternoon with lots of birdies. Nicholas Colsaerts was superb for Europe, winning a point against Striker and woods. The USA lead 5 - 3 and I think Colsaerts point was vital and Europe must get off to a good start on day2 to stay in it.
Feel free to post your thoughts and tips on the Ryder cup below..