Matthew poised to play leading role in Solheim Cup bid

North BERWICK’S Catriona Matthew was today set to play a key role at Killeen Castle in Ireland as a determined European team bids to snatch the Solheim Cup back from the USA. The visitors are 8-3 ahead in wins and Matthew was due to start her sixth appearance today in the third of the opening series of foursomes alongside Spanish rookie Azahara Munozm, facing Stacy Lewisand Angela Stanford. Alison Nicholas, the European Captain, recognises Matthew, the 2009 Women’s British Open Champion, as one of her top players and said: “Catriona is a great leader and gets on well with everyone. I think she and Azahara will be a perfect pairing. They are both strong and steady players.”

Matthew is “quietly confident”. She said: “They start favourites, but we have a good blend. It is important for the event that Europe wins again and I think it will be close.”