As Woods’ injury developed, LaFountain — lacking an ice pack — at first applied cups of ice to Woods’ back every time he teed off. That was replaced by bags of ice and intermittent back rubs on the back nine.

“It’s just a matter of keeping it pain free and loose before I swing,” Woods said. “Tom did an awesome job. ... He kept me swinging.”

Woods and Furyk’s teammates praised their gritty performance.

“You’ve always got to beware of that wounded dog, and when you’ve got two of them, you’ve just really got to beware,” said Justin Leonard, who along with Scott Verplank provided the only other American victory Friday as the International Team took a 6½-5½ lead.

Nicklaus was also apparently impressed, putting Woods and Furyk together Saturday morning for the alternate-shot competition.

“They’ll be fine,” Nicklaus said. “Jim got much better as the day went on.”

Still, Furyk said after Friday’s match it would be unlikely he would play two matches on Saturday. Woods said he would need treatment but hoped to play in both.

Woods and Furyk’s victory marked the first time Woods had won a four-ball match in the Presidents Cup in six previous tries.

“Tiger’s record may not be the best in the Presidents Cup,” Nicklaus said, “but I tell you what, he gets pumped up to play.”

MORE FROM TRACKING TIGER

Tracking Tiger Section Front

Tiger's aura strong, at least outside the ropes Thousands turn out for Tiger's practice round Mickelson thwarts Els, Tiger for HSBC victory Lefty leads HSBC, will face Tiger in final round Tiger surges into a share of lead at HSBC Watney ties course record to lead Tiger in China A golfing season that never ends Tiger hangs out with Dallas Cowboys Day 4: Tiger helps U.S. secure another Presidents Cup Day 3: Tiger, Stricker stay perfect as U.S. keeps lead Tracking Tiger Section Front   Add Tracking Tiger headlines to your news reader: