Rookie watch at the Ryder Cup

This was a real baptism of fire for the four of Europe’s six newcomers sent out for their Ryder Cup debuts, Darren Clarke not using Chris Wood or Matt Fitzpatrick on day one.

Their performances proved to be a mixed bag.

Partnering Rory McIlroy, Andy Sullivan despaired as his tee shot into water on 17 ushered in a foursomes defeat to Phil Mickelson and Rickie Fowler.