The speculation over who is in the Ryder Cup team is finally over meaning punters can concentrate solely on which player will be the big Swiss cheese at this week’s Omega European Masters.
The Course: Crans-sur-Sierre GC, Switzerland (par-71, 6,857 yards)
A relatively short course which plays even shorter due to the altitude factor - Crans is 5000 feet above sea level, meaning the ball travels 10% further in the thin mountain air. The four par-5’s - the 1st (easiest), 9th, 14th and 15th - all provide birdie / eagle chances. However, players still need to be careful with club selection in the mountain air, which makes previous course form a requisite. The greens, many of which are like upturned saucers, are difficult to read.
Ross’ Top Tip: Miguel Angel Jimenez @ 12/1 Paddy Power
The Spaniard is the class act in this week’s field and double-figure quotes are more than fair. He’s been a regular here down the years and has acquitted himself very well – six top-10 finishes since 1993, including in 2004 when he was runner-up. This season, he’s looked as good as ever so it’s about time he won one! I can just see him puffing on a big fat cigar while he’s walking up the 18th on Sunday with a three shot lead!
Next Best: Michael Campbell @ 25/1 VCbet
The Kiwi was my ‘outsider’ pick last week on the back of some solid performances going back to the USPGA Championship. Unfortunately, he failed to reward each way backers, but tenth place was still a decent effort and, as he can boast three top-10 finishes in his last four starts here, he ought to be able to run into a place at the very least.
Outsider: Marcel Siem @ 66/1 bet365
The German’s game has been in the doldrums most of this season, but he looks to be rediscovering some sort of form of late. Last week’s top-10 finish at Gleneagles would have been particularly pleasing as it secured his card for next season and he too can boast some solid course form – tied-2nd in 2006 and tied-25th last year.
Tournament Lay (Betfair): Niclas Fasth
Has looked a light of his former self this season and is priced up this week on past reputation alone.
Ross’ 72-Hole Match Bet: Michael Campbell to beat Niclas Fasth @ 5/6 Stan James
Recommended Bets:
Miguel Angel Jimenez 1½ pts each way @ 12/1 Paddy Power
Michael Campbell 1pt each way @ 25/1 VCbet
Marcel Siem 1pt each way @ 66/1 bet365