A rampant British team overpowered their opponents in the singles matches at Baltusrol's Lower Course on Wednesday to wrap up an impressive 13.5 - 5.5 Simpson Cup triumph - just their second on American soil, and a first on these shores in a decade.

Having led 4-2 overnight after edging Team USA in Tuesday's fourball matches, they never gave an inch when play got under way in the glorious New Jersey sunshine, and ensured that the leaderboard remained a sea of blue throughout the day.

That was how it stayed, and the landslide equals the record winning margin in the event's history. It also means they level the overall series at 5-5, with the teams set to reconvene at Royal Lytham and St Annes in 2023.

For victorious captain Dave Ward, this was a special result. Not since he himself captained the team in the inaugural showpiece at TPC Sawgrass back in 2012 have they crossed the Atlantic and lifted the Cup. Asked if he simply had the Midas touch, the 57-year old was suitably humble in reply.

"I'm so proud of my team, and the way they battled this week," Ward beamed. "It's not easy to win this thing away from home - we've certainly found it difficult for the last 10 years! But this is huge for us, as the Simpson Cup means so much. It's the pinnacle for OCF members, it really is."

He added: "This isn't down to me at all. Our players have come here with a steely determination and spirit. This is a close-knit group, and they've brought out the best in each other. It's been an unforgettable week, and I suspect it's going to be a good night of celebrations too!"

As for USA captain Marty Caraway, the feeling of disappointment was palpable, but he remained magnanimous in defeat.

"I would like to say a huge congrats to Dave and his team - they played outstanding golf this week, and richly deserved to come out on top," he said warmly. "I couldn't be more proud of my team though - they gave it everything from the moment the first ball was hit.

"Some close games yesterday, and it might have gone differently had those gone our way. History shows it isn't easy to win this golf tournament when you're behind after day one, and the UK players never opened the door for us today. Full credit to them to come over to the States and get the win," the 41-year old added graciously.

Indeed, as Caraway alluded to, no team has ever won the Simpson Cup after trailing from the day one fourball matches. And it was GB who hit the ground running today, as James Smith got the better of Medal of Honor recipient Clint Romesha (5&4) in the traditional founder's pick match.

It justified Caraway's decision to front-load his lineup with experience after that, as he sent out the esteemed triumvirate of Todd Tongue, Mike Stafford and Chad Pfeifer in the next three groups.

Tongue got the job done with a 2&1 victory, although, having been dormie 5-up, a lot of kudos must go to his opponent Ian Bishop for taking him up the 17th hole.



Stafford was also engrossed in an epic duel with GB's Tim O'Reilly, and had to win the 18th hole just to salvage a half point. In fact, neither gentleman was able to establish more than a one-hole lead in this thrilling match.

As for Pfeifer, he struggled to wear down the impregnable Kushal Limbu, who led for most of the day. But Pfeifer mounted a late rally, winning the last two holes to pull off the narrowest of 1-up victories. Another cliffhanger, which will live long in the memory.

But that was about as good as it got for the hosts, as the floodgates opened for the Brits after that. David Hayden MC held off a late charge from John Goudie to win his match 2-up, while Tom Nicoll (3&2), Mike Browne (5&3), Neil Flynn (3&2) and Chris Paterson (5&3) served up more comfortable victories.

It was left to Kate Surman to have the honor of securing the winning point for her team. Surman, who became the first female to represent GB back in 2019, closed out her match 2&1 against Charles Young, and got a warm embrace from her jubilant teammates.

Tirthraj Thapa (2&1) and Steve Cross (4&2) then put the gloss on the scoreline with a point each for the visitors, and although Pat Burke rallied bravely for the Americans in the anchor match to beat Andy Stevens (3&2), the rout was complete, and the celebrations could begin in earnest.

So to the victors, the spoils, and Team GB will cherish this one. But, once again, both sides have exhibited the camaraderie and bonhomie synonymous with this great competition - with friendships renewed, and memories made.

We'd also like to extend a huge thank you to Baltusrol GC, who were wonderful hosts, and whose hospitality has been much appreciated. We've walked the path of legends this week at these iconic golf courses, and it has been a real privilege. Next year, we head to the North West of England for Simpson Cup 2023 - we hope to see you all there!