Donald and Hansen hold keys to Loch

Seven of the world's top 20 club wielders tee off at the Scottish Open on Thursday with Phil Mickelson leading a star-studded pack including Ernie Els, Luke Donald, Retief Goosen, Sergio Garcia, Angel Cabrera, and Trevor Immelman at Loch Lomond. Of this magnificent seven two-time winner Ernie Els is the outright favourite to take the trophy for the third time at odds of 11/1 but all merit obvious respect. Fresh from his US Open win Cabrera (25/1 with Sporting Odds) won't be short of confidence and has a solid record in this tournament, having finished one shot off the play-off in 1999 and in fifth place in 2005 after an opening round 64. Perhaps understandably, though, the affable Argentinian is still basking in the afterglow of his Oakmont success. 2001 winner Goosen is available at 22/1 but seems to be struggling with his game at the moment while that goes double for Mickelson (20/1), who has missed two straight cuts and still appears plagued by wrist problems. All of which should play into the hands of Donald. The unflappable second favourite at 16s (with Expekt.com) relishes the spectacular Loch Lomond surroundings, which are more akin to the American style courses he is used to playing on the other side of the pond, and Luke appears to have the Jedi force in this tournament, finishing runner-up last year and fifth in 2005. Those of you looking for more each way value might be tempted to plump for Colin Montgomerie (25/1) following his long-awaited European tour win at the K Club, but I fancy him to save his best for the Open at Carnoustie the following week. Søren Hansen (66/1) makes for more appeal and has previous at the Scottish Open, tying for 14th place in the 2003 edition. Søren is soarin' (ahem, sorry) after coming seventh and second in his last two sorties. Verdict: 2pts Luke Donald e/w @ 16/1; 1pt Søren Hansen e/w @ 66/1