Ryder Cup casts its shadow over Mount Juliet combatants

THEY try to put it out of their minds but for the 17 combatants in action at Mount Juliet, there is no escaping the Ryder Cup.

Even for those not directly involved, the subject keeps cropping up.

Jose-Maria Olazabal was one of the great contributors to the European victories in the 80s and 90s but he hasn't made the team this time. He will watch on television and after yesterday's round of 68, he rubbished those who claim Europe have no chance.