Europe wins first Solheim Cup since 2003

DUNSANY, Ireland, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Azahara Munoz defeated Angela Stanford Sunday to assure Europe's 15-13 victory over the United States in the Solheim Cup and its first win since 2003.

Europe took the cup with three spectacular rallies late in the singles.

In the first crucial match, Suzann Pettersen and Michelle Wie engaged in a hard-fought match but Pettersen emerged with a 1-up victory after three straight birdies to tie the contest 13-13.

Caroline Hedwall, meanwhile, faced a 2-down deficit with with two to play against U.S. captain's pick Ryann O'Toole, but rallied to win the last two holes as O'Toole self-destructed with a pair of bogeys, giving Europe a 14-13 lead.

Europe then assured itself the necessary 14 1/2 points needed for victory when Munoz went 1-up with one to play against Stanford in the last match on the course, going on to make the final margin 15-13 in favor of Europe.

Sunday's play at Killeen Castle in Ireland was marred by three weather stoppages.