The Americans are leading the other three four-ball matches, so it could still be a good morning for the defending Ryder Cup champions.
View full sizeStewart Cink of the U.S. isn't happy with this shot during Ryder Cup action Friday at the Celtic Manor golf course in Newport, Wales.Paul Newberry / Associated Press
NEWPORT, Wales — Lee Westwood and PGA champion Martin Kaymer have given Europe the first point of the Ryder Cup with a 3-and-2 victory over Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson.
Mickelson and Johnson appeared to have the momentum at the end of the water-logged opening day, down only one hole, but a bunch of errant shots doomed the Americans when play resumed in chilly conditions this morning.
It ended at No. 16, where Johnson flew the green with a wedge and Mickelson missed a 10-footer to save par and extend the match.
But the Americans were leading the other three four-ball matches, so it could still be a good morning for the defending Ryder Cup champions.
As soon as the four-ball matches are done, everyone is set to tee off again today in a hastily assembled second session with six alternate-shot matches. And assuming the forecast of good weather holds up, there will be at least the start of a mishmash third session comprised of two alternate-shot matches, and four more groups playing foursomes.
It was all part of a plan to hand out the gold chalice by nightfall Sunday -- either to the United States, which needs at least 14 points to retain the cup, or Europe, which needs 141/2 points to get it back on home soil.
After a shaky start, including a quick trip to the merchandise tent to buy new rainsuits when their team outfits left them all wet, the U.S. turned things around after a rain delay of more than seven hours Friday.
The Americans, behind in three matches when play was suspended, went to bed with two groups leading, another all square and only one duo trailing.
But no match had been decided, so it was like opening day all over again.