WILTSHIRE ace Jordan Smith lost a narrow singles match as Great Britain & Ireland conceded an 8-4 lead to the United States on day one of the Walker Cup in New York yesterday.

Bowood's Smith, 20, was edged out by the home side's Cory Whitsett by one hole in their singles clash at the National Golf Links of America, as Great Britain & Ireland's promising position - they established a two and a half to one and a half advantage after the morning foursomes - was blown away following the change of format.

The US were victorious in six of the eight singles with only Nathan Kimsey and Gavin Moynihan avoiding defeat for the visitors.

Despite an errant tee shot on the par-5 18th hole, Whitsett halved the hole with a par to secure the fourth consecutive singles victory for the USA against the Derry Hill-based player.

In the tight match, which was all square through 14 holes, Whitsett salvaged a winning par at the 15th hole after hitting his tee shot into tall fescue.

Meanwhile, Smith three-putted from 45 feet and two players halving the final three holes.

Smith was again sitting out today's morning foursomes and was due to play USA's Jordan Niebrugge in the singles on the final day afternoon.

Great Britain & Ireland needed to reach the 13 points park to retain the Walker Cup they won two years ago and 13.5 points to win it again outright.

NEWS FROM THE FINAL DAY OF THE WALKER CUP AT GAZETTEANDHERALD.CO.UK/SPORT LATER AND REACTION IN THURSDAY'S GAZETTE & HERALD