Underdog European team can win Solheim Cup, says rookie Reid

In-form rookie Melissa Reid is confident that Europe can win the Solheim Cup for the first time in eight years this weekend.

The United States heads into the match at Killeen Castle as hot favorites and three-time defending champions. But Reid senses that this could be the year when Europe turn the tables on the visitors.

The 24-year-old from England will come into match on a high after claiming victory in the Spanish Open on Sunday, a third Ladies European Tour title in just over a year which she admits came her way unexpectedly.

"I wasn't really expecting much from the week -- just working on a few things,” she said. “But it's always nice to win -- a nice little early birthday present (she turned 24 on Monday). And obviously great preparation for me coming into this week."

Reid led the automatic standings for qualification but is one of five rookies on the European team. That could work to the hosts' advantage since almost half their team has not tasted defeat at the hands of the Americans.

"It is my first time so I can't really say too much, but Laura (Davies) said this week does feel a bit different,” Reid said. "I think everyone in the team is playing well. The past two or three months everyone has kind of come into form and everyone is very confident. The rookies are not fazed. I don't feel fazed at all -- just playing golf, trying to do the best that you can."

And Reid is hoping that plenty of home support will also aid the Europeans' cause.

"I think we are going to come in as underdogs, with the world rankings and stuff," she said. "But the team are feeling good. And with the home support -- and especially being in Ireland -- you are always going to get a big crowd. The whole team is just feeling very, very good about this week, so we'll see."