Jovial Mickelson and glum Clarke fail to deliver awaited tussle

PHIL MICKELSON patted kids on the head and gave out golf balls en route to his two under par total, while playing partner and Ryder Cup rival Darren Clarke chewed cigarettes and fretted his way to what he admitted was a “poor” three over par round.

Expected to be a precursor to next week's clash of the continents at the Belfry, this pairing failed to live up to expectations and those anticipating a fist-clenching, crowd-baiting performance, were sadly disappointed.

If the pairing was anything, it was a model of conviviality and bonhomie as the duo concentrated on trying to win the one-million-dollar first prize.