The International team bounced back to take a slender 3�-2� point lead over the USA on day one of the Presidents Cup in South Africa. The American holders went ahead in four matches, before losing their grip on the overall score towards the end.
World number one Tiger Woods did pick up a win with Charles Howell III.
But he was quick to comment on the tough playing conditions: "This golf course is so difficult - you can win a lot of holes with pars."
Local hero Retief Goosen and Fiji's Vijay Singh provided early cheer for the Internationals, beating American rookies Jerry Kelly and Chris DiMarco 3&2 in an alternate-shot contest they always dominated.
But the Americans levelled at 1-1 when Davis Love III and Kenny Perry outplayed Australia's Peter Lonard and South African Tim Clark 4&2.
 |  I've been on the other end of some really close matches in recent years |
Nick Price and US Masters champion Mike Weir then birdied the last two holes to seal a thrilling win for the Internationals over David Toms and Phil Mickelson.
However the Americans, who won the 2000 Presidents Cup by 11 points, levelled again, through Woods and Howell III, who beat Australian Stuart Appleby and South Korean KJ Choi 4&3.
US Open champion Jim Furyk and Justin Leonard looked to have their match in control, at two ahead with three to play.
But they lost to South Africa's Ernie Els and Australia's Adam Scott, who put together an inspired finish.
"It was really exciting today," said Els.
"I've been on the other end of some really close matches in recent years."
The final match was shared, but American pair Jay Haas and Fred Funk surrendered a late advantage to Australian duo Robert Allenby and Stephen Leaney.
MMIX
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