Ryder Cup singles underway

European players grabbed a slight advantage in the early play of the closing 12 Ryder Cup singles at Medinah Country Club on Sunday. With five matches underway, Europe were ahead in two with the Americans leading in one and two all-square. In the lead match Luke Donald was 2 up through five holes over Bubba Watson. Behind them Webb Simpson was ahead for the USA, 2 up on Ian Poulter after four holes. Rory McIlroy, who nearly missed his tee-off time due to a mix up over time zones, was all-square after three holes with Keegan Bradley, while Justin Rose won the first two holes over Phil Mickelson. The Americans lead 10-6 after two days of foursomes and fourballs and need just 4 1/2 points to ensure they keep the small, golden trophy for the next two years. Jose Maria Olazabal's team need to win eight out of the 12 matches to reach 14 points which would result in the contest being tied and Europe, as holders, keeping the cup.