[Tony2005]

For one week Louisville Kentucky will not be known for being the birthplace to one of the greatest sportsman ever Mohammad Ali but for hosting the 2008 Ryder Cup at Valhalla.

Europe go into this match as firm favorites having won the last three cups and five of the last six. Nick Faldo one of the all time greats of european golf captains the Europe team and Paul Azinger captains America.

This is the 37th Ryder cup and promises to be as close as most have been over the last ten years with both teams looking strong at the top end but lacking cup experience towards the bottom.

The Americans are without the worlds best player in Tiger Woods and it will be interesting to see if this has a good or bad effect on the team as much has been made over the last few Ryder cups about how he has beeen influencing decisions made by the captains.

Europe are without Colin Montgomaire who failed to make Faldos pick and also missing is Darren Clarke..now this could come back to haunt Faldo come Sunday as both of these players have been the backbone of the european team come the singles.

The foremat changes slightly this year with the Americans choosing to start with Foresomes instead of the usual Fourballs on the first morning...but whatever way these matches are played i think we will be in for a thrilling finish.

The course has been set up for the big hitters with Azinger hoping this suits his players better then that of europe...This is something i dont think will give an advantage to either team as both have great ball strikers and as usual the winning of the cup will come down to team selection, the short game and of course the players holding their nerve best.

It would be great to hear all your thoughts and also who you think will be victorious come Sunday evening....