For the first time in nearly 30 years the United States Ryder Cup team has entered the second day of competition with a stunning three-point lead over the Euros, and all without the services of Tiger Woods. Anthony Kim, quite possibly the best young American since Tiger, has brought both passion and points to the US team in the competition's opening matches while partnering with Phil Mickelson. Meanwhile, the typically unflappable Euro side has been struggling, and things are only getting worse with the absolutely preposterous decisions of team captain Nick Faldo. Play is underway in the morning's alternate shot event and for some inexplicable reason Faldo has benched his top two performers in Sergio Garcia and Lee Westwood. Casual fans might not think it's such a big deal, but this is the Ryder Cup, and when it comes to this competition Garcia is not only the best in the world, but possibly the best of all time. As for Westwood, the Englishman is the most experienced and consistent performer on Faldo's roster having extended his unbeaten streak to twelve matches after yesterday's two halves only to be relegated to spectator status. Regardless of Faldo's asinine lineup decisions, the European team remains a formidable opponent going in to today's action. All four foursomes are underway at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky with each team holding leads in two of the matches. The top European duo of Ian Poulter and Justin Rose are continuing to tear through the golf course, currently holding a 5 up lead after just seven holes against Stewart Cink and Chad Campbell. Meanwhile the pairing of Miguel Angel Jimenez and Graeme McDowell hold the slightest of leads over the strong American duo of Justin Leonard and Hunter Mahan. Mickelson and Kim are actually up three holes early on in the day for a change of pace, and they should have little trouble earning a full point for the Americans. Similarly Jim Furyk and native Kentuckian Kenny Perry find themselves 3 up against the European pair of Paddy Harrington and Robert Karlsson. The action will be going all day on NBC and I'll be back with periodic updates. If you've never had the pleasure of watching the Ryder Cup I'd suggest tuning in to take a look. What you will see is far more entertaining than your average golf tournament. Hell, it doesn't even need Tiger. Marcel will be taking you through all of the rest of the day, so be sure to send your tips to [email protected] or [email protected].
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