US extend lead over Europe

West Des Moines (US), Aug 20

The United States extended their Solheim Cup advantage to a commanding five points after an impressive afternoon fourball session at Des Moines Golf and Country Club gave them a 10-1/2 to 5-1/2 lead heading into Sunday’s singles matches.

Cristie Kerr, who had earlier passed American captain Juli Inkster for the most Solheim Cup points for the US with 18, teamed with Lexi Thompson on a decisive 4&2 win over Europe’s Catriona Matthew and Georgia Hall.

Kerr, 39, helped the cause with a pivotal birdie on the 15th hole that gave her side a 3-up lead with three to play.

The American duo of Kerr and Thompson had got the US off to a winning start on Saturday morning, thrashing Carolina Masson and Jodi Ewart Shadoff 5&3, with Europe winning only one hole. — Reuters