Europe will head into today's singles with a four point lead after a morning which continued to be shrouded in controversy.


Europe will head into today's singles with a four point lead after a morning which continued to be shrouded in controversy.

Resuming play after bad light had brought Saturday afternoon’s fourballs to a halt, America drew first blood when Gerina Piller's par was enough to see herself and Stacy Lewis claim victory 1 up. The momentum then swung back to Europe as Catriona Matthew and Karine Icher, who had headed into their remaining three holes with a one hole lead, quickly capitalised on this advantage to take victory on the 17th.

The morning will be remembered somewhat sourly however for the controversial incident which occurred on the 17th green in the final match on the course between Suzann Petterson and Charley Hull and the American pairing of Alison Lee and Brittany Lincicome. With both European players in for par, Alison Lee was left with 10 foot for birdie and to win the hole. As the putt slid by both European players began to walk to the first tee appearing to indicate that the putt was good and Lee scooped up the 2 foot putt which she still had remaining. In a move that appeared entirely led by Petterson, Europe then claimed the hole on the grounds that Lee had taken the ball away before it had been conceded. The move, whilst in accordance with the rulebook, left both sides visibly shaken with Hull and Lee rendered to tears following the conclusion of the match, which would ultimately be won by the Europeans.

The incident may prove pivotal with Europe now heading into the singles with a significant four point advantage but has left many questioning whether Petterson's decision was taken in the spirit of the game. Dame Laura Davies described the incident as 'disgusting' and in a tournament that prides itself on its integrity and friendly rivalry many have concurred.

The singles matches will commence at 10,40am local time and with a huge turnout the atmosphere is likely to be electric.

To view the singles draw and follow the action live visit http://www.solheimcup.de/en/home/

 

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