Monday play looks likely at Ryder Cup after start delayed

Oct 3, 2010, 8:53 GMT

Newport, Wales - Monday play at the Ryder Cup for the first time in the history of the competition looks very likely, after the course was deemed unplayable early Sunday.

Players were due to tee off early Sunday in an attempt to make up some of the backlog that occurred after pouring rain forced a seven- hour break in play on Friday, but organisers said that rain falling throughout Saturday night had resulted in a water-logged course.

The competition, which sees 12-man teams from the United States take on their European counterparts, was due to end Sunday at the Celtic Manor Course in Newport, Wales, but that now seems very unlikely.

By the end of Saturday, only 10 of the 24 matches had been completed, with the US leading 6-4, but Europe up in all six of the matches on course when darkness halted play on Saturday.

In a statement, organisers said that play would not resume before midday Sunday and they advised spectators to remain at home and await further information before travelling to the competition.

'For those already at the park and ride venues, or currently travelling to the event, they are advised to remain in their vehicles,' the statement said.

The chief referee John Paramor, meanwhile, has said that it looks very likely that play will have to continue on Monday, as it is virtually impossible to complete all outstanding matches by the end of Sunday.

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