Montgomerie delighted with Europeans ahead of Ryder Cup

Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie is "delighted" with the progress of his potential European players as the countdown to Celtic Manor reaches six months.

The eight-time Ryder Cup stalwart said: "I'm delighted with the way things are progressing.

"Everyone knows any Ryder Cup Team has to possess a crucial blend of practiced experience and talented youth and we have both of those elements near the top of the rankings at the moment."

Montgomerie explained: "The reason for this surge of talent is simple: standards are rising due to increased competition among the players. All the guys are battling week after week to prove how much they want to play in The Ryder Cup," he added.

"By their good play and each wanting to outdo each other's achievements, they are actually bringing out the best in each other and, as Captain, that is exactly what I want to see."

The 46-year-old Scot, who has amassed 23.5 Ryder Cup points, admitted his growing anticipation: "You can feel the excitement building as each week goes by and I am at the stage now where I can't wait for it all to being in earnest."

The first ticket ballot has passed, but the second computer-randomised ballet is open until mid April. It can be accessed through rydercup.com/tickets, where - in addition to Match Day Tickets - Practice Day Tickets for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday can be bought for £30 each. Special concession and Disabled persons prices are also available.

Match Day tickets will cost £100, with a price of £130 set for the Sunday. Spectators are urged to visit rydercuphospitality.com to view packages such as the £950 International Pavilion Ticket, a six-day pass to numerous hospitality facilities.  

A limit of eight tickets per household has been placed for Practice Days and four for Match Days, however Ryder Cup Europe are accommodating particular groups such as juniors.
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