Honours Even After First Session

The Ryder Cup is tied 2-2 after a tense opening set of Foursomes at Medinah with Rory McIlroy showing much stronger form than USA's most-hyped player Tiger Woods.

World No.1 McIlroy and his Northern Ireland compatriot Graeme McDowell survived a dramatic comeback to earn Europe’s first point winning by 1 hole.

Jim Furyk was in fine form playing alongside Brandt Snedeker and forced McDowell to hole a tricky putt on the 18th to clinch the match.

"We played great to be three up but those gutsy players came back at us", said McDowell.

"My job's easy this morning - I'm playing alongside the greatest player on the planet right now. It was a phenomenal bunker shot from Rory on the last."

Luke Donald and Sergio Garcia lost a Foursome together for the first time, beaten 4&3 by Phil Mickelson and Keegan Bradley.

"I just really enjoy it and to be Phil's partner I am at total ease," said Bradley

"It is a day to remember so far. We are very pleased to beat them."

Jason Dufner and Zach Johnson also earned a point for the hosts after winning the 15th and 16th holes on the way to a 3&2 win over Lee Westwood and Francesco Molinari.

Ian Poulter and Justin Rose capitalised on some poor form by Tiger Woods playing with Steve Strciker to take the final match 2&1 to square up the contest at the halfway stage of the opening day.

Day one Fourballs afternoon pairings:

Watson and Simpson v Lawrie and Hanson

Mickelson and Bradley v McIlroy and McDowell

Rose and Kaymer v D Johnson and Kuchar

Woods and Stricker v Westwood and Colsaerts