Irish trio geared for challenge

THE Irish trio at this week’s Accenture World Match Play in Tucson enter the event with contrasting form.

After four weeks recharging the batteries following a life-changing 2010, Graeme McDowell is set to maintain the momentum as he prepares for a first-round clash in the Ben Hogan bracket with the American Heath Slocum. This group also contains golf’s greatest left-hander, Phil Mickelson, defending champion Ian Poulter and two current American Ryder Cup stars in Rickie Fowler and Matt Kuchar.

However, G-Mac has no reason to fear any opponent these days and, as he proved in the Ryder Cup, he is especially adept in the art of match play golf.