Tiger Woods has dominated this tournament but, with the world number one out, the other players get a chance to shine. With no halfway cut, they are all assured a fat cheque.
The Course: Firestone GC (South Course), Akron, Ohio (par-70, 7,400 yards)
This is a very long course for a par-70, with seven of the twelve par-4’s over 450 yards. There are only two par-5’s, the 2nd and the 667-yard signature hole 16th. The fairways are generous. However, accurate iron play is vital to the smallish greens to set up birdie opportunities on the Bentgrass putting surfaces. Previous course experience is very valuable.
Ross’ Top Tip: Stewart Cink @ 20/1 Paddy Power, William Hill
Not many players have beaten Tiger around here, but Cink managed just that in 2004 (by seven shots no less!) and nearly scalped him again in 2006, eventually losing in a play-off. This season, he’s been in great form with a win, two seconds and two third places putting him fourth on the US Money List, and the 20/1 looks an each way steal in this limited field.
Next Best: Adam Scott @ 25/1 Ladbrokes
The Aussie has the perfect game for Firestone, so it’s a surprise that he’s only really been in contention once. That was in 2006 when he led after a brilliant first round 63 and was first for GIR (greens in regulation) that week. His putting let him down after that and he faded to finish tied-10th, but I expect him to post his first top-four finish this week, so back him each way.
Outsider: David Howell @ 150/1 bet365
Has endured a bleak spell following injury but, on recent evidence, he is beginning to rediscover peak form. He played solidly in the European and Scottish Opens, and played beautifully on the last day of the Open, shooting a 67 to finish in a tie for seventh. Finished sixth here in 200f when he was only one of three players to shoot all four rounds at or under par, so the 150/1 looks generous.
Tournament Lay (Betfair): Ernie Els
The Big Easy has a poor record here by his standards and should be opposed in the outrights and in match bets.
Ross’ Match Bet: Stewart Cink to beat Kenny Perry @ Evens Skybet
Recommended Bets:
Stewart Cink 2pts each way @ 20/1 Paddy Power, William Hill
Adam Scott 1pt each way 25/1 Ladbrokes
David Howell 1/2pt each way @ 150/1 bet365