One of the quirks of team matchplay is that there can be a substantial discrepancy between the odds of players whose fate is largely dependent on one another. If for instance, a pairing stays together throughout the foursomes and fourballs, they will begin the final day singles with identical points. There is precisely such a differential between the two players whose partnership is widely expected to form the backbone of Europe's bid - Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell.
Whereas Rory starts as 6.0 favourite to be top European scorer, his likely partner is an 10.0 chance, which must represent better value. Of the two, McDowell actually has a superior matchplay record, having starred on both previous appearances, famously holing the winning putt at Celtic Manor. Even if Jose Maria Olazabal surprises everybody by breaking up this popular Northern Irish pairing, Gmac would still be a key man.
Another likely pairing is Ian Poulter and Justin Rose, but at 9.6 and 10.5 respectively, the difference in their odds is much smaller. In this case, Poulter is preferred because he's been top overall scorer in the last two Ryder Cups and is therefore much likelier to play all five matches. Moreover, this matchplay specialist will take the world of beating in the singles.
Of the rest, Luke Donald, Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia are afforded great respect on the basis of their tournament records, although I could see the latter pair missing a round or two, given their indifferent form. It is hard to see Paul Lawrie, Francesco Molinari, Peter Hanson, Martin Kaymer or Nicolas Colsaerts getting enough games to challenge in this market.
Recommended bets
Back Ian Poulter 3u @ 9.6
Back Graeme McDowell 3u @ 10.0
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