Christina Kim and Ryann O’Toole at Killeen Castle. Jenny Matthews/www.golffile.ieAmericans Morgan Pressel and Ryann O’Toole holed big putts to help the United States keep Europe in its sights in the Solheim Cup at Killeen Castle.

With the sides level at 2-2 after the morning foursomes, Europe surged ahead in all four afternoon fourballs but to had to settle for a 4 1/2 - 3 1/2 lead after a windy opening day in Ireland.

Rookie Caroline Hedwall and fellow Swede Sophie Gustafson put Europe 3-2 ahead with a 5 and 4 win over Vicky Hurst and Brittany Lincicome.