Dramatic European victory after McDowell’s knife-edge finish

GRAEME McDOWELL added his name to an already illustrious list of Irish Ryder Cup heroes as the Portrush man held his nerve to ensure a dramatic victory for Europe at Celtic Manor in Wales.

Following in the famous footsteps of Eamonn Darcy, Christy O’Connor, Philip Walton and Paul McGinley, the hopes of a continent rested on the shoulders of the 31-year-old following a hugely dramatic final day.

McDowell sunk a 20ft putt on the 16th and parred the following to ensure European glory by just one point (14.5 to 13.5).