IAN Poulter never had any doubt he would deliver a point for Europe during one of the most thrilling contests in Ryder Cup history.

And it was just as well Poulter came up trumps at Celtic Manor, or Europe would on Tuesday be reflecting on defeat against the United States, rather than a spectacular 14 1/2 - 13 1/2 success.

"I said in the morning on the range I would deliver a point," recalled Poulter.

Poulter was one of only four European players who won their singles matches - Graeme McDowell, Luke Donald and Miguel Angel Jimenez were the others - with McDowell beating Hunter Mahan on the 17th in a final game shoot-out.

Dustin Johnson's 6&4 victory over Martin Kaymer apart, Poulter enjoyed the day's biggest individual triumph when he saw off Matt Kuchar 5&4.

He added: "I am pretty passionate about this format, I love the Ryder Cup. I've watched so many matches over the years. I love it from the first tee, the songs, and being with all 11 team-mates. It truly is the best tournament in the world, and it always will be."

It was McDowell who took centre-stage though, conquering his nerves amid almost unbearable pressure in front of 35,000 spectators to drag Europe over the finishing line.

Lee Westwood, now up to number two in the world behind Tiger Woods, watched with the rest of the European team as McDowell went through an emotional wringer.

"I don't know how people do it - it's awful watching," said Westwood. "You can't do anything about it. It is much easier playing, because you are in control. It was horrible. When you are a player you understand what someone like Graeme was going through. You know how nervous he is going to be, but you can't do anything about it.

"At that moment in time, Graeme had the team's whole success or failure in his hands - and that's a lot of pressure."