• Ryder Cup

Olazabal unleashes 'strongest pairings'

ESPN staff
September 28, 2012
Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell will lead off for Europe © PA Photos
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The Ryder Cup gets underway at Medinah Country Club on September 28. ESPN will have extensive coverage of the event - including interactive text commentary, reports and reaction - for all three days.

Captian Jose Maria Olazabal believes he is sending out his four strongest pairings as his European side aim to defend their Ryder Cup crown.

Olazbal has selected world No. 1 Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell to lead out Europe's charge against Jim Furyk and Brandt Snedeker of the United States. Following the release of the foursome pairings on Thursday afternoon, Olazabal stated he was not surprised by the selections of his US counterpart Davis Love III.

"When I look at foursomes, I want to have players who are consistent and are steady from tee to green," said Olazabal. There were no surprises from Davis Love, they are all strong pairings and some of those have played before.

"The way my players are playing is the most important thing. They believe we can win here even though the US have the crowd advantage and the experience of playing here."

Luke Donald and Sergio Garcia - who are unbeaten in four previous foursomes matches - are Europe's second pairing, and they will face nine-time US team member Phil Mickelson and rookie Keegan Bradley.

The third tie sees Englishman Lee Westwood and Francesco Molinari of Italy taking on Jason Dufner and Zach Johnson. Meanwhile, the morning anchor match pairs Tiger Woods with Steve Stricker against English pair Justin Rose and Ian Poulter.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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