Sam Torrance insists pressure all on US Team

The pressure will be off the European team when they defend the Ryder Cup in the United States later this month, former captain Sam Torrance has said.

Torrance, who led the team to victory at The Belfry two years ago, told BBC Sport: "Sometimes it's almost easier going away - there's less expectancy.

"In front of your home crowd, everyone's cheering you on and you feel like you have to play well.

"But when you're out there you're on your own just get on with the job."

The Scot knows all about pressure as he marshalled his forces on a superb final day's singles in 2002 clinching a come-from-behind 15.5 to 12.5 win.

And he predicts his successor as captain, Bernhard Langer, and his team could be given a psychological edge by the vocal home crowds at Oakland Hills in Detroit.

"You know the crowd's going to be on the Americans' side," he said. "You have to use it and not let it get you down.

"When the USA chant starts, just let it annoy you, let it build you up, let it make you mad and play better golf.

"There's a little bit less pressure playing away from home than playing at home."

Although Torrance is not familiar with the venue of this year's Ryder Cup, he expects it will provide plenty of excitement when the tournament gets under way on 17 September.

"I don't know it but I know it's a good course, it's a good test of golf and I know it'll be set up tough."

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