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Fasth believes Ryder Cup experience gives Europe an edge

Niclas Fasth believes Europe's experience in the Ryder Cup will give them an edge as they bid for a third straight triumph over Asia in the Royal Trophy which begins on Friday.

Fasth, making his second Royal Trophy appearance, is one of the five players in the European line-up who have Ryder Cup experience under their belts and he feels it could make a difference at Amata Spring Country Club against a strong Asian line-up led by captain Naomichi 'Joe' Ozaki.

"The Ryder Cup brings out the best of players and it can make a bit of a difference in a team competition," said Fasth, a six-time winner on the European Tour.

"To play for your Continent is a special honour. I am really excited and proud to have been selected by Captain Jose Maria Olazabal to play at the Royal Trophy and to have the privilege of wearing the European colours."

Irishman Paul McGinley, Soren Hansen of Denmark, England's Oliver Wilson and former British Open champion Paul Lawrie have represented Europe in the Ryder Cup previously and will be counted upon Olazabal, himself a Ryder Cup stalwart, to lead the Europeans to another victory over Asia this week.

McGinley, who holed the winning putt for Europe in the 2002 Ryder Cup against the United States, holds a terrific record in the Royal Trophy where he has won 5 1/2 points from a possible six in the two previous clashes with Asia.

"I've been fortunate in team events," said McGinley, who is also unbeaten in three Ryder Cups for Europe. "We'll treat Asia with respect. We play a lot with Asian players these days and know what they are capable of."

January 8, 2009