Lowry plays his part in dream start for Europe

With Shane Lowry making a significant contribution, Europe have made a wonderful start to their mission to regain the coveted Ryder Cup.

Europe raced into a 4-0 lead in Rome this morning (Friday) to leave their United States opponents reeling.

Offaly's Lowry - one of European captain Luke Donald's wildcard picks - and rookie Sepp Straka claimed a 2&1 win over Rickie Fowler and Collin Morikawa.

The victory for Lowry and Straka followed Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton defeating world number one Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns, 4&3. Viktor Hovland and rookie Ludvig Aberg overcame Brian Harman and Max Homa by the same score.

Then Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood completed the rout in the foursomes by defeating Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele.

Speaking about the early success he and Stara enjoyed, Lowry said: "It’s huge. Obviously, it’s early days but I wanted to give Sepp his moment in the Ryder Cup to hole the winning putt! We are off to a great start this morning. We need to keep the foot down.

"I would have liked to close out the match earlier because we had good chances, but it was nice to put a point on the board for Europe," Lowry added.

This year's Ryder Cup, taking place at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Guidonia Montecelio, near Rome, will continue until Sunday.