Baker backs boys for Ryder glory

Shropshire Ryder Cup ace Peter Baker has backed Europe to reign supreme in Valhalla this weekend - despite concerns over the support team of captain Nick Faldo.Shifnal-born Baker is confident Europe will edge their biennial tussle with America and secure a fourth successive triumph in the three-day contest which gets underway shortly after 1pm tomorrow.

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The 41-year-old is no stranger to one of the biggest events in global sport, making a playing appearance in a losing cause at The Belfry in 1993 before acting as a captain's assistant to Oswestry's Ian Woosnam in an inspirational success in Ireland two years ago.

Woosnam also entrusted the help of former Shropshire colleague Sandy Lyle, Des Smyth and DJ Russell in his backroom team for that memorable victory at the K Club.

Baker - a four-times winner of major Shropshire & Herefordshire amateur titles in his days at Lilleshall Hall - admits he is surprised Faldo has only named one trusted lieutenant, Spaniard Jose Maria Olazabal.

"I am surprised Nick has only gone for one because think it's important that you try and have one person watching each fourballs and foursomes match on the Friday and the Saturday," said 41-year-old Baker.

"There could be a specific incident that comes up where you need someone out there. Even if that doesn't happen, it's useful to have one person watching a game all of the time.

"Speaking from experience at the K Club, Colin Montgomerie wanted me to walk the last few holes with him (in the singles) just to take some of the pressure off and there might be a few players like that."

Despite those reservation, Baker is confident Europe can hold their nerve and secure another famous triumph.

"I think it's going to be very very close this time but I fancy Europe to nick it 15-13," added the European Tour ace, who is battling to maintain his full card in the remaining weeks of the season.

"I think the crowd are going to be a big factor. They will be very noisy and up for the Ryder Cup and it will be a difficult situation for our boys.

"But I'm confident we can cope with it."

By James Garrison