LEE Westwood led from the front in trademark fashion as Europe set off on their quest to regain the Ryder Cup at a mist-shrouded Celtic Manor.

Westwood was first out in the delayed 12-match singles schedule against the United States following a competition scarred by heavy rain and 13 hours of delays. And he did so in the knowledge he had climbed to world number two for the first time.

Europe began the day needing five points for victory, and pathfinder Westwood once again found early rhythm as he went one up on Steve Stricker through five holes.

Behind him, Ryder Cup rookie Rory McIlroy made a blistering start against former Open champion Stewart Cink, going two up after two holes before a dogged Cink clawed it back to all square as they set off down the fifth.

Europe's Luke Donald, facing the man who beat him to win £7 million in last weekend's FedEx Cup, stood one up against Jim Furyk after three, and it was all square between Ian Poulter and Matt Kuchar.

America initially led in just one of the first five matches, courtesy of Dustin Johnson's first-hole victory over US PGA champion Martin Kaymer.

German Ryder Cup rookie Kaymer made a hash of his tee shot, and then struggled to get out of a green-side bunker as Johnson quietly went about his business.

After the early flurries, and with the sun beginning to pierce mist on the early holes, Europe had made a solid start, with captain Colin Montgomerie having set out his stall through fielding players ranked among the world's top 10 in the first four matches.