1.   Bradley supporters could argue that the GOP contenders are playing up Gore because they feel he would be an easier opponent to beat in a general election.

2.   Holyfield could have chosen an easier opponent for his comeback.

3.   However, Mayweather passed on that fight, electing to face an easier opponent so he can get used to the higher division.

4.   Not because China would be an easier opponent than Norway, but because China brings out the best in the Americans.

5.   The Mets, however, have easier opponents.

6.   The WBA did, but Lewis chose to take more money to fight an easier opponent, Michael Grant.

7.   His strategists figure the other Social Democrat front-runner, party chairman Oskar Lafontaine, is an easier opponent than Schroeder.

8.   Kasparov has the easier opponent in the out-of-form Piket.

9.   The Czech Republic, meanwhile, faces an easier opponent, Greece.

10.   The Italians said Sion was pushing for Helsinki to be chosen as the other finalist, considering the Finnish city an easier opponent than Turin.