Monty Matchplay Memory: Out First, Back First

By Colin Montgomerie

08 July 2010 16:55

EVENT: The 2002 Ryder Cup at The Belfry.

RESULT: Trounced Scott Hoch 5&4 in the singles.

THE STORY: Sent out first by captain Sam Torrance, to set a winning tone for the critical final day, Monty delivered in fine form. He crushed his first drive down the fairway and took an immediate lead with a birdie putt from 18 feet. By the time they reached the turn, Monty was 3-up. More birdies at the 10th, 13th and 14th holes sealed the match. “That’s the best I can play,” he said afterwards.

“Scott is a great champion and a tough competitor, but I think I was eight under and there’s not much you can do about that.” With the tone set, Europe went on to win the Cup 15½-12½.

MONTY’S MATCHPLAY TIP: I couldn’t believe it when I drew Scott in the singles again and I knew that I had my work cut out because he was very competitive. So I had to go out and beat him and I did. I think I was seven under par for the 14 holes played and it was super to get blue on the board. Momentum – that was what that day was about. Sam Torrance was a gambler and he gambled that day by putting a lot of his strength at the top of the order and it was a gamble that paid off. So, the lesson from that is about getting momentum and holding onto it. When you go one up, don’t defend, but try and get two up and three up. Of course, it’s all about putting. The best matchplay competitors are the ones who aren’t afraid to hole those eight-footers