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Woosnam delight at rollercoaster opening day

22/09/2006

Ian Woosnam had admitted he found it difficult to watch on a dramatic day at the K Club in Ireland.

Europe hold a 5-3 lead over the United States after an unbeaten session in the afternoon foursomes.

The hosts held a one shot advantage after the morning fourballs on the Palmer Course.

Woosnam, looking to guide Europe to a hat-trick of Ryder Cup titles, said it had been a great start to the tournament.

"That was unbelievable, what a day," he said.

"We played every player today which is fantastic."

"It's different being captain - you just want to get it right and we got it right out there today."

Colin Montgomerie, who sank a six foot putt in the final shot of the day to earn a tie, said his side were pleased with their start.

"That's a good day, we would have taken that," he said.

"We did well this afternoon, we didn't lose a game."

Montgomerie and playing partner Lee Westwood shared the points with Masters champion Phil Mickelson and Chris Di Marco.

US captain Tom Lehman admitted he was disappointed with his team's performance on the opening day.

"It was a tough match, it stings a little, no doubt about it," he said.

"Both teams played well but we could have done with a little more luck on the greens.

"It's 5-3, it's still anybody's ball game. I'm not too concerned but a bit frustrated."

Europe's Paul Casey and Robert Karlsson will begin day two against Stewart Cink and JJ Henry.

Phil Mickelson and Chris Di Marco take on Spanish duo Sergio Garcia and Jose Marie Olazabal while the third match will see Tiger Woods and Jim Furyk clashing with the experienced pairing of Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke.

Swede Henrik Stenson and Ireland's Padraig Harrington play Scott Verplank and Zach Johnson in the final match of the morning.

The morning fourballs begin tomorrow at 0700 BST.

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