Ryder Cup

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Rickie Fowler to beat Rory McIlroy - 4 points @ 15-8 (SpreadEx)

Thed likelihood is that both these players will feature in all 5 matches but whilst the price may be correct over a 72-hole event, I can't see why there is such a difference in regard to 18-hole matches.

Not much to add about either of these players. Rory's achievements are well known and his Ryder Cup record of 5 points from 9 matches is fine. However, he is 3-3-1 in pairs events (w-l-d) suggesting he is a far better player when controlling his own destiny. I'm unsure whether he will play alongside McDowell but am not fussed either way, he doesn't represent the correct price against an in-form rival with so much talent. Top it with the new driver, although he may not use it that much, and he is no value at all.

Fowler's issue in strokeplay has always been the odd hole where he will throw in a double-bogey. Against a top-form McIlroy over a Championship 72 holes that gives him a distinct disadvantage. Here though, that would represent only one hole and he is almost certain to be able to match his rivals tee-to-green play. Fowler's recent forays over the Atlantic have seen him runner-up at The Open and a closing 8th at the Scottish Open and he was the only player to finish top-5 in all Majors this year. There is nothing between these at all on 18-hole form and whilst I can see the still-improving Fowler being the mainstay of the US team, I am not confident the World number one will be the same for the home side.