RYDE' OUT THE STORM

Donald's Cup challenge to his Europeans

- BY NEIL MCLEMAN

LUKE DONALD has urged his team to channel their "fire" in the cauldron of the Ryder Cup as he announced a two-day reconnaissance mission to Bethpage Black next month.

The European captain wants his players to then stay on the other side of the Atlantic to fight off jet-lag - and bond - before the Long Island showdown next month.

Eight of the last nine Ryder Cups have been won by the home side, including by Donald's gladiators in Rome two years ago.

This time Europe's players will face a battle to quieten a vociferous New York crowd - perhaps also including Donald Trump - desperate to retain the trophy.

Recent PGA Tour events where Americans have competed against Europeans have featured growing chants of, "USA, USA".