Just been watching the Ryder Cup – gripping stuff and you have to say the USA fully deserved their win. The only thing that bothers me now is that he press in the UK, being what they are, are going to jump all over Nick Faldo and try to turn public opinion against him. It’s a sad way of life, but that’s how the press operate.
The truth of the matter is, Faldo has never been that popular, so any chance to have a dig at him will no doubt be taken by the armchair journalists quick to see a opportunity to sell a few more rags. We all wondered whether the decision not to take Clarke and Monty might backfire, but IMO the decision was vindicated by Ian Poulter’s superb performance, and Casey wasn’t that bad taking two halves from his 3 games and being paired against tough US opponents too.
Then he left out Westwood and Garcia on Saturday. Much consternation and disbelief. But Garcia was complaining about no feeling 100%, and we went out and won the day albeit marginally.
Then there was the decision to play Westwood, Harrington and Poulter at the back end of the field. Well, Harrington has clearly not found his form this weekend, and what’s more he asked to anchor the field. And quite honestly, the way the other Americans were playing (Weekley was 8 under after 12 holes, Kim similar), it was never going to happen.
The botom line is, Faldo had to take some risks after Day 1 and good on him. His rather appalling jokes aside, he carried himself well and the hacks that will be out for blood tomorrow should probably get up, get out, and get a life. The Americans were bang on – simple as that. We didn’t lose it…they won it!
My Highlights:
Last match, Day 1, all 4 players pitching to within 3 feet on the 16th.
Same day, same game, Boo and JB taking on the water on the 18th when 1 up…and sinking to lose a 1/2.
The 40ft putt by Mahan on the 17th in the singles to go 1 up, 1 to play (then doing what the two above did on 18!)
Mickleson, Leonard and Furyk’s putting on Saturday. Total class.
A great atmosphere, albeit obviously one-sided, throughout. Boo S A!!
My Player Of The Tournament:
Boo Weekley. Not well known over here in Europe but what a weekend, and especially the last round. Awesome golf on home turf. Fantastic.