A European win forged in Ireland

Between them, Paul McGinley, Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell ensured that Europe’s Ryder Cup success over the United States had ‘Made In Ireland’ stamped all over it.

The venue was Scottish, the highest points scorer was Englishman Justin Rose and the winning point secured by Welshman Jamie Donaldson. Yet on a team comprised of nine different nationalities, captain McGinley and his two compatriots produced the golf that got Europe over the line for a famous 16½-11½ at Gleneagles last night.

McGinley’s contribution was everywhere, not just over the three days of this compelling contest but in two years of meticulous planning that earned the praise, plaudits and gratitude of his players.