US breathes new life into Cup matches

LOUISVILLE, Kentucky: Much-needed vigor and passion has been breathed back into the Ryder Cup by Paul Azinger's triumphant United States team after six years of European dominance.

Three successive victories by Europe, the last two by record-equaling margins, had prompted some cynics to suggest the United States needed to beef up its line-up with Canadians and South Americans.

The Europeans had held the upper hand over their opponents with regard to team unity and a relaxed but committed approach, plus the ability to hole birdie putts when they matter most.