Great Britain and Ireland slumped to a heavy 17-9 Walker Cup defeat to the USA as they picked up just 1.5 points from the closing afternoon singles.

Trailing 6.5-5.5 after the first day at Cypress Point, California, the visitors halved the morning foursomes to remain within a point heading into the decisive session.

But hopes of a first Walker Cup win since 2015 - and first on US soil since 2001 - evaporated as the hosts took control in the afternoon.

Connor Graham managed a half point after a tough battle of two 18-year-olds with US amateur champion Mason Howell, but a string of US victories took them to the brink of victory.

Preston Stout confirmed the result when his 2&1 win over Luke Poulter, son of European Ryder Cup star Ian, took them to the required 14 points.

Gavin Tiernan cl

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