Having tied Team Europe in 2014, it's no wonder Team Asia had a quiet confidence that they would be able to pull a surprise in 2016. But sadly that was not to be. Darren Clarke and his European team rolled into town and put on a stunning display.
By the end of the day 1, Team Europe had established a solid start notching an early lead 4.5 : 1.5. By day 2, the Europeans extended that lead to 9 : 3. In the end, the men in blue put on quite a display in the singles matches to cap off a fine victory for Team Europe and highlight the disparity between the two teams.
Team Asia gave it a good shot but Team Europe were simply a class above, which to an extent is a cause for concern. Here's hoping that Team Asia will catch up in two years when the Eurasia Cup returns in 2018.
Was at the Glenmarie Golf and Country Club on Sunday and was volunteering during the final day singles. I was match captain for match 3 (Andy Sullivan v. Thongchai Jaidee) and it was good fun. Thongchai started off brightly but eventually lost to a very solid Andy Sullivan, 4&3.
Managed to catch up with Ian Poulter after the prize giving ceremony and got his autograph. He played brilliantly all three days notching 3 points (4&3, 3&2 and 4&3)
Before things went under way on Sunday, Team Europe / Asia Captains, Darren Clarke and Jeev Milkha Singh made a surprise appearance and were met with thunderous applause, at the volunteer's village to say thank you to all the volunteers. Terrific stuff and classy of them to take the time to drop by.
Andy Sullivan speaking with reporters after his fine victory over Thongchai Jaidee.
It was certainly a very 'blue' day (on the scoreboard) with Team Europe ending the day 18.5 : 5.5
Certainly a good work out for Team Europe during a Ryder Cup year and Captain Darren Clarke would have learnt plenty more about his team members.
Till we meet again at the Eurasia Cup 2018.