FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1
GRAEME MCDOWELL AND RORY MCILROY QUOTES
Q. What was it like on the first tee this morning?
RORY MCILROY: The first tee was a fantastic experience. It was the best atmosphere on a golf course that I have ever felt. I was nervous but once I got the first tee shot away I was fine but I let Graeme hit the first one. It was nice to experience it and I am sure we will experience it is bit more over the next few days. Most important thing now is to try and get back into the match and make a good start tomorrow morning.
Q. Thoughts on the match Graeme?
GRAEME MCDOWELL: The first four or five holes this morning was a good start for the whole team in general and we had a good energy about us. But that afternoon session didn't seem to go so well. Rory and I both struggled to get into our rhythm when we got back out there. We weren't feeling on top of things and Stewart Cink made a few bombs on us to keep them in there when it looked like we could have gone a couple up at one point. But we are looking forward to getting back out there and repairing the damage. They were kid of keen to play on and the light was fading pretty quick so we didn't want to let them continue with the momentum. We will get back to the hotel, get some sleep, regroup and come out with all guns blazing in the morning.
Q. Thos Cink putts were big?
GRAEME MCDOWELL: Stewart made a few bombs when it looked like we might get a stranglehold on the match. He made three or four really good putts out there after the restart and that really set the tone for the rest of the afternoon unfortunately.
Q. What about the new format?
GRAEME MCDOWEL: It is going to be fast and furious. But it is important that we get out there and play golf tomorrow. The forecast is good and we want to give the people what they came here to watch, which is golf. We might also have a chance to finish on Sunday evening. That is what this golf tournament deserves. So fingers crossed. It is going to be a long day but a good day with plenty of good golf to watch.
Q. No Partying tonight?
GRAEME MCDOWELL: We will save the partying for Sunday or Monday night, depending on what happens. We have good strength in depth in our team and having all 12 on the golf course tomorrow is pretty good for us. We are pretty excited about that change in format.
Q. Rory will it be a test of stamina?
RORY MCILROY: It's going to be tough going, especially with the ground so heavy. All 12 guys are going to play tomorrow so I think that stamina is going to be a factor. It is just a waiting game whenever the weather is like this. It wasn't a great afternoon session for us and I am glad we are in the clubhouse now and we can get a fresh start in the morning.