BETTING GUIDE ANGUS RECOMMENDS record does not match that of the rest of his career and US captain Paul Azinger will still be able to field a strong side. Azinger had four wildcard picks – compared to Nick Faldo’s two – and with three newcomers in his eight qualified players he has a nice mixture of youth and experience. Azinger will be hoping that he can create a good team spirit in his American side, and if he can they should ensure this Ryder Cup is not the same as the previous two contests, which have been one-sided European victories. Punters should remember that the tie is a big runner, as it would be enough for Europe to retain the trophy, and at around 12/1 gives you plenty of options, especially if it is close and you are betting in-play. The tie is also a huge runner in the individual matches and has come to the rescue of the bookies on many occasions in recent Ryder Cup matches. A change in the order this year sees the match starting with foursomes instead of fourballs. The score changes are much more rapid in foursomes and a three- hole lead can evaporate quickly, while it would be a much more solid position in fourballs. Nick Faldo must be delighted with his side and looks to have a strong squad. Justin Rose will finally make his Ryder Cup debut and Faldo must make sure all of his players play at least once ahead of Sunday’s singles. He will have to juggle his squad and will be hoping to have a lead going into the final day singles. Lee Westwood will be a key figure in Valhalla. There is no golfer in the world driving the ball better at present and he will not be fazed by the hot atmosphere, having gone head-to-head with Tiger Woods in the US Open. Like all this side of the Atlantic, I will be cheering on Europe, but at 4/5 they have little appeal. With most bookmakers betting in-play, however, there will be chances to get odds against. Be careful not to get stuck in toany match at very cramped odds as momentum changes very quickly in Ryder Cup matches and I expect the 2008 Ryder Cup to be a classic, with a close score-line. ■ Correct score to be 15-13 Correct score to be 14.5-13.5 Justin Leonard to be top American points scorer BETTING ODDS Europe to win – 4/5 USA to win – 11/8 Tie – 12/1 Below Will Leonard be top US scorer? 130 / CLASSIC SPORTS SERIES