US Open Betting: The five best 2-ball bets for Sunday

Back Steven Alker 2u @ 4.03/1 (v Johnson) (Starts 15.12)

When it comes to 18-hole betting over the weekend at a major championship, I generally employ two criteria. First and foremost, look to oppose established players with little incentive to fight amidst what are usually penal conditions. Secondly, I usually prefer to back the outsider because the difference between players at this level over 18 holes is miniscule.

This early match-up meets both criteria. I reiterate yesterday's comments that Dustin Johnson is wholly unsuited to this course and is becoming more so as it dries out. After a good start in ultra-receptive conditions on Thursday, he's hit 77/75 and I doubt we'll see any improvement today. If that's the case, 4.03/1 about Alker simply has to rate value, whatever his own lack of credentials.

Back Marcel Siem 4u @ 2.47/5 (v Pettersson) (Starts 16.07)

Few players have impressed me more over the past 18 months than Marcel Siem. From being an also-ran best-known for folding under pressure, the German has become a regular contender in Europe and is faring well in the States. He's been very consistent, only missing one cut all year and shooting only two final rounds above 70, with nothing worse than 75. I reckon he'll be staying on through beaten players today, whereas Pettersson is in reverse mode after contending early on. It is notable that Carl hit 77/81 over Masters weekend.

Back Webb Simpson 5u @ 2.285/4 (v Garcia) (Starts 16.18)

Anyone taking on Sergio Garcia in the final round of majors over the years will be in profit and today could be a particularly depressing experience for him. He reportedly suffered constant abuse from the fans yesterday and, never known for his resilience, probably can't wait for the plane home. In contrast, as defending champion, the reliable Simpson should be determined to register as high a finish as possible.

Back David Lingmerth 4u @ 2.427/5 (v Senden) (Starts 19.03)

Momentum could be the key here, as Senden will do well to get his mind and game back on track after a terrible finish last night. His putting stroke became extremely tentative after losing the lead and Merion's plethora of tricky short putts could cause further headaches today. Alternatively, Lingmerth made significant headway through this field with 71 yesterday, playing the brutal back-nine in level par. Having already finished runner-up at the Players Championship in a lucrative rookie season, the Swede looks set for another good finish.

Back Charl Schwartzel 4u @ 2.0621/20 (v Stricker) (Starts 20.09)

Finally a few words about the main contenders, who it must be said have been hard to split throughout this enthralling major. This pair are my two remaining hopes, having backed Schwartzel at 40.039/1 and Stricker at 70.069/1 a couple of weeks ago. I'm confident about both, but prefer Schwartzel who has struck me all week as the likeliest winner. His long game is in flawless shape and that could make the difference today.