Graeme McDowell: 5-3 deficit "no disaster"

Europe's Graeme McDowell has said that Europe's two-point deficit to America after the first day's play in the Ryder Cup is "no disaster".

The hosts dominated the day, especially the afternoon fourballs where Europe will feel slightly fortunate to have come away with a whole point.

"Tough day for us but only 5-3 behind so no disaster," tweeted the Northern Irishman last night. "Played well this morning but average this afternoon. Respect to our super rookie Nicolas Colsaerts."

The 2010 US Open champion then said he was predicting a big day for Team Europe this morning, adding: "En route to Medinah for day 2 here at The Ryder Cup. I feel a big day for the Europeans coming...... #justgotafeeling."

The 33-year-old is partnered with fellow Northern Irishman and world number one Rory McIlroy in the morning foursomes against Brandt Snedeker and Jim Furyk.