US dominate 1st day of Ryder Cup with 5-3 overall lead

CHICAGO, Illinois (AFP) - The United States (US) emerged victorious from a pulsating first day's play in the 39th Ryder Cup at Medinah Country Club on Friday, dominating the afternoon fourballs to take a 5-3 overall lead.

In a format that habitually favours the Europeans, Davis Love's team took the fourballs 3-1 afer sharing the alternate ball foursomes 2-2 in the morning's play.

All 24 players were in action during a day which started so promisingly for Europe but which ended so positively for the United States.

The American heroes were rookie Keegan Bradley, showing passion and talent in securing two points with Phil Mickelson, who was winning a record ninth US cap, and Bubba Watson who fired up the big Chicago crowd with his attacking game.