NBA | Page 5 Harden scores 50-point triple-double in Rockets victory

Saturday, December 15, 2018 FOOTBALL Rabia II 8, 1440 AH Trophies matter, says GULF TIMES Mourinho ahead of Liverpool clash SPORT Page 3 SECOND TEST happy aft er day one despite fi ghtback Indian bowlers strike after a century partnership by Harris and Finch as hosts post 277 for six at stumps in Perth AFP Scorecard Perth, Australia AUSTRALIA 1st innings ustralia were pleased M. Harris c Rahane b Vihari 70 with their overall posi- A. Finch lbw Bumrah 50 tion at the end of the U. Khawaja c Pant b Yadav 5 fi rst day of the second TestA against India yesterday, de- S. Marsh c Rahane b Vihari 45 spite several top order batsmen P. Handscomb c Kohli b Sharma 7 failing to capitalise on promising T. Head c Shami b Sharma 58 starts in Perth. A century opening partnership T. Paine 16 after Tim Paine won the P. Cummins not out 11 toss and elected to bat appeared Extras (b4, lb3, nb1, w7) 15 to lay the foundation for a sizea- ble total on a challenging pitch at Total (for 6 ; 90 overs) 277 Test ’s newest venue, but Fall of wickets: 1-112 (Finch), openers Marcus Harris and Aar- 2-130 (Khawaja), 3-134 (Harris), on Finch were among a number 4-148 (Handscomb), 5-232 of top order players who couldn’t (Marsh), 6-251 (Head) build the big individual score : Sharma 16-7-35-2 Australia craved. (nb1), Bumrah 22-8-41-1, Yadav At stumps on a scorching 18-2-68-1 (1w), Shami 19-3-63- day, the home side were 277 for 0 (1w), Vihari 14-1-53-2, Vijay six, with Tim Paine on 16 and 1-0-10-0 Pat Cummins on 11, a crowd of 20,746 braving the heat to be part of history on the fi rst day of Test off the pitch and it followed Har- cricket at the new Optus Sta- ris as he recoiled, fending it to dium. Ajinkya Rahane at fi rst slip. Finch, who made 50 at the top Harris had been there for 141 of the order to ease some of the balls, but his dismissal meant pressure on his spot in the team, Australia had lost three wickets said the Australians were satis- for just 22 runs and surrendered fi ed with their work given the their early advantage. conditions. Australia slumped to 148 for “I thought we batted really four when Peter Handscomb (7) well today,” he said, adding that again fell against a short ball out- the presented “some side off stump, Indian skipper Vi- challenges”. rat Kohli pulling down a scintillat- “The position we are in, we ing one-handed catch in slips from would have taken that at the start the bowling of Sharma (2-35). of the day,” he said. Marsh, dropped by Pant on 24 India dropped two catches and from the bowling of Vahari, and ended the day with concerns of Head steadied the shop with an their own. 84-run stand. Paceman Ishant Sharma brief- However, Marsh became Vi- ly left the fi eld late in the day hari’s second victim, caught at with what team offi cials said was fi rst slip by Ajinkya Rahane. cramp, and their batsmen would India’s Hanuma Vihari (second from right) celebrates with teammates after dismissing Australia’s Marcus Harris (right) on the first day of the second Test in Perth yesterday. (AFP) Head was growing in confi - have been slightly alarmed by dence and was eyeing his fi rst some of the variable bounce. cerned by it. no to think about those aspects vourite Shaun Marsh made 45. to a rare four-pronged Indian made just fi ve, sparring at a short Test century until a rush of blood Recalled batsman Hanuma Vi- Vihari said the game was even- (bounce) too much.” pace attack, the pair backed their ball from Umesh Yadav and get- saw him lash out at a wide de- hari, who picked up two impor- ly poised heading into the second Four Australian batsmen made 3 wickets lost for 22 captain’s call at the toss until ting a thick edge to wicketkeeper livery from Ishant and slice it tant wickets with his part-time day. over 40, but none went on to post Australia started very well, Finch’s luck ran out and he was Rishabh Pant. straight to Mohammed Shami on spin including a sharply rising “The fi rst hour tomorrow is a substantial innings. with Harris and the under-pres- trapped in front by paceman Jas- Harris was dropped at second the third man boundary. which removed Harris, crucial,” he said. Second-gamer Harris led the sure opener Finch putting on 112 prit Bumrah (1-41). slip from the bowling of Mohamed India won the fi rst Test in Ad- admitted it was impossible to ig- “If we can get them out for less way with 70, Finch made 50, for the fi rst wicket. Finch’s dismissal brought Shami on 60, he but added just 10 elaide by 31 runs as they seek nore the variable bounce but that than 320 we are back in the game. Travis Head hit 58 before throw- Despite the pitch having a dis- struggling left-hander Usman more before falling to Vihari (2-53). their fi rst series victory on Aus- their batsmen would not be con- “The important thing for us is ing his wicket away and local fa- tinctly green tinge that appealed Khawaja to the wicket and he Vihari got a ball to rise sharply tralian soil.

MOTORSPORT Al-Sulaiti, al-Khelaifi grab Qatar Superstock and QTCC poles again

By Sports Reporter lost the front in corner 6, but the day. Abdulla was amazing today Doha crash was small. I feel good with and he got away from all of us. I the bike for the race and ready don’t think I can manage to get for tomorrow as the pain in the 1.5 seconds to beat him tomorrow efending Qatar Super- toe due to last weekend crash de- but I will try my best,” al-Asiri stock 600 champion, creased and I feel much better,” said. Qatar’s Saeed al-Su- said al-Sulaiti. Ibrahim al-Abdulghani had laiti, grabbed the pole Mishal al-Naimi and Nasser some problems with his car in the positionD of the round 2 at Losail al-Malki will start in third and opening round and didn’t man- International Circuit, and so did fourth place respectively. age to get a good result but this the double winner of the last Qa- In the QSTK Trophy, the fast- weekend, he fi nished in third in tar Touring Car Championship est rider was Qatar’s Sheikh Jas- the qualifying session with a time round, Abdulla al-Khelaifi . sim al-Thani with a lap time of of 2:25.830. Al-Sulaiti was on top in the 2:08.122. Kuwaiti riders Moham- Today, QSTK Race 1 starts at two free practice sessions, and ed al-Zaidan and Ali Abdulhus- Qatar’s Saeed al-Sulaiti (left) and Abdulla al-Sulaiti in action during the 11:30 and Race 2 at 14:30. For managed to do the fastest lap in sain fi nished second and third qualifying session for the Qatar Superstock 600 at Losail International Qatar’s Abdulla al-Khelaifi in action during the qualifying session for QTCC, the fi rst race is scheduled the Superpole in 2:04.024 to lock respectively. Circuit yesterday. the Qatar Touring Car Championships yesterday. at 13:00 and the second race at the fi rst spot in the grid ahead of “I am again the fastest rider in 16:00. Abdulla al-Qubaisi. the QSTK Trophy category and best acceleration I can until the Al-Khelaifi was very satisfi ed and I think that tomorrow I can Newcomer driver, al-Asiri Qatar Superstock 600 and Qa- “In the Superpole, my lap time hopefully tomorrow I can have a end,” Sheikh Jassim said. with the results of the day. “I am go even faster. The competition will start second on the grid as tar Touring Car Championship was very good but in the last good start because the front rid- In the Qatar Touring Car very happy with today’s timings. is getting stronger in each round he managed to clock the time are organised by Losail Circuit three minutes, I went for the last ers have better starts than me. I Championship, al-Khelaifi was It’s the best qualifying I ever had, and I have to build a bigger gap if during the Qualifying time at Sports Club and Qatar Motor lap and in the fi rst sector I was always follow them behind and on pole again with a lap time of best qualifying of the category. I want to stay away from (Ahmed) 2:25.373. and Motorcycle Federation with even faster but unfortunately, I this time I will try to keep the 2:23.037. Still there is some time in the car al-Asiri.” “The car is a little bit better to- Pirelli Qatar as sponsor. Gulf Times 2 Saturday, December 15, 2018 CRICKET

FOCUS U19 WORLD CUP ASIA DIV TWO QUALIFIER Agarwal shines as Bangladesh cruise Qatar see off Bhutan By A Correspondent nought as Agarwal weaved his magic, giving Qatar their second win in three matches. Samil Sadiq also excelled for eg-spinner Shubh Agar- Qatar, taking three wickets for 20 wal claimed six for six in runs in eight overs. six overs as Qatar saw off In reply, openers Solaiman to 2-1 series victory Bhutan by seven wick- Mohamed and captain Hussain Lets in their Under-19 World Cup Khan gave Qatar a solid start by Asia Division Two qualifi er in a putting on 41 runs. lopsided match here yesterday. Solaiman made 23 and Khan Bhutan, who elected to bat 30 before being dismissed, fi rst, were dismissed for a paltry but Syed Tameem saw them 58 in 22 overs with opener G K through with a 21-ball 12 as Qa- Ghalley top-scoring with 23. tar made 62 for 3 with 230 balls over West Indies None of the other batsmen to spare. made it into double fi gures and Agarwal was adjudged man of Shai Hope scoring his second straight ton of the series in a losing cause in Sylhet four of them were dismissed for the match.

SELECTION ’s Malinga back as one-day, skipper

AFP However, he captained an ODI Colombo match against India in August last year. The latest squad for the shorter ri Lanka yesterday forms of the game was ratifi ed by brought back Lasith President Maithripala Sirisena in Malinga after a long hia- the absence of a sports minister, tus as captain of its lim- the cricket board said. ited-overS squads to lead the na- Sri Lanka is eff ectively without tional team against . a government since a disputed Sri Lanka Cricket said the cabinet appointed by Sirisena 35-year-old right-arm fast was defeated in a no-confi dence bowler was named skipper of motion last month. a 17-man squad for three one- day internationals and one T20 SQUAD: (Captain), starting January 3. Niroshan Dickwella (V.Captain), Malinga led Sri Lanka to the Angelo Mathews, Danushka Gu- T20 World Cup in 2014. But since nathilaka, Kusal Janith Perera, Di- captaining Sri Lanka against the nesh Chandimal, Asela Gunaratne, UAE in February 2016, he has not Kusal Mendis,Dhananjaya de led the national team. Silva, Thisara Perera, Dasun He had lost his captaincy as Shanaka, Lakshan Sandakan, well as his place in the team after Seekkuge Prasanna, Dushmantha recurring injuries which forced Chameera, Kasun Rajitha, Nuwan him to sit out many tournaments. Pradeep and Lahiru Kumara.

Bangladesh players pose with the tournament trophy after winning the third one-day international against West Indies in Sylhet, Bangladesh, yesterday. (AFP)

AFP good. Spinners have been tight Sylhet, Bangladesh Scorecard and pacers also stuck to the plans,” he added. WEST INDIES Extras (lb 1, lb 4, w6, p5) 16 L. Das c Powell b Paul 23 amim Iqbal and Soumya C. Hemraj c Mithun b Hasan 9Total (9 wkts; 50 overs) 198 S. Sarkar b Paul 80 TO COME Sarkar slammed half- Earlier, Hope defi ed the spir- centuries as Bangladesh S. Hope not out 108 FoW: 1-15 (Hemraj), 2-57 (Bravo), M. Rahim not out 16 ited Bangladesh attack, hitting cruised to an eight- D. Bravo b Hasan 10 3-96 (Samuels), 4-97 (Hetmyer), Extras (w1, nb 1) 2 Shakib over the long off to bring Twicket win over the West Indies 5-99 (Powell), 6-133 (Chase) up his fourth ODI century after M. Samuels b Saifuddin 19 Total (two wickets; 38.3 overs) 202 in the third and fi nal one-day 7-143 (Allen), 8-171 (Paul), 9-177 the ninth wicket had fallen for international to take the three- S. Hetmyer lbw b Hasan 0 (Roach) FoW: 1-45 (Das), 2-176 (Sarkar) 177 runs. match series 2-1 yesterday. R. Powell c Rahim b Hasan 1Bowling: Rahman 10-1-33-0 Bowling: Roach 3-0-16-0, Chase The opener, who was named Tamim hit an unbeaten 81 in R. Chase c Sarkar b Shakib 8(w2), Hasan 10-1-29-4, Shakib 8-0-32-0, Paul 7-0-38-2, Samuels player of the series, also hit 10 the northeastern city of Syl- 9-0-40-2, Mortaza 9-1-34-2, fours in his fi ne innings. F. Allen c Mithun b Shakib 6 4-0-25-0 (w1), Bishoo 9-0-48-0 het while Soumya added 80 off Saifuddin 9-0-38-1 (w1), Mah- (nb1), Allen 4-0-22-0, Powell “Still a bit dizzy to be honest, 81 balls to guide Bangladesh to K. Paul b Mortaza 12 mudullah 3-0-14-0(w3) 3.3-0-21-0 but I’ve hung in there. Obviously 202-2 in 38.3 overs after Mehidy wanted my team to get over the K. Roach lbw b Mortaza 3 BANGLADESH: RESULT: Bangladesh won by line, but very unfortunate for Hasan’s career best 4-29 helped D. Bishoo not out 6 the home side restrict the West T. Iqbal not out 81 eight wickets the guys to not take it till the end Indies to 198-8 in 50 overs. and hopefully we will learn from Shai Hope fought a lone bat- his tally in the series to 297 runs. sealed the contest and the series. beaten on 16 at the other end. our mistakes,” said Hope. tle for the tourists, scoring his Bangladesh made a steady re- Soumya was the aggressor- Earlier, skipper Mashrafe Bangladesh won the fi rst match second successive hundred of sponse, with Tamim and Liton in-chief, smashing fi ve sixes and Mortaza and spinner Shakib by fi ve wickets on Sunday before the series but it was in vain as Das hitting 45 runs for the open- as many fours before Paul sent Al Hasan claimed two wickets the West Indies levelled the series no other batsman provided sup- ing wicket before Liton off ered a his leg-stump cartwheeling. each after man-of-the-match with four-wicket win in the sec- port. catch to Rovman Powell at mid- Tamim, who happily an- Mehidy rattled the West Indies’ ond match two days later. Fresh from an unbeaten 146 on off Keemo Paul. chored the innings, sealed the top-order. The West Indies will wrap up off 144 balls in the previous Soumya and Tamim denied game with successive fours off “It was a good match — Hope their tour with three Twenty20 match, Hope struck another un- the West Indies any momentum, Powell, his eighth and ninth played an excellent innings,” internationals, with the open- conquered knock of 108 off 131 putting 131 runs in their sec- boundary of the innings. Mashrafe said after the match. ing match scheduled at the same to prop up the visitors, taking ond wicket stand, which all but Mushfi qur Rahim was un- “Our bowlers have been very venue on Monday.

SPOTLIGHT Sri Lanka reeling from upheaval ahead of NZ Tests CHANGE AFP sin Reserve wicket,” he told Ra- Giles replaces Strauss Wellington dio New Zealand. “They are all things that are little red fl ags that we need to as ’s new ri Lanka will hope to put be aware of... we’re a little more poor form and off -fi eld vulnerable than we would nor- chaos behind them when mally be.” director of cricket they face New Zealand in New Zealand have named theS fi rst Test at Wellington’s Ba- a 13-man squad for the series old said in a statement. Reuters sin Reserve today. while Sri Lanka have 17 play- London “I am very grateful for the The tourists’ preparations ers to choose from, giving them opportunity and excited about have been anything but smooth, added options with the bat. working with some talented peo- with changes to their coaching The two Test series will be ormer England spinner ple. The legacy left by Andrew staff increasing pressure on a followed by three one-dayers Ashley Giles has replaced Strauss has put the performance team coming off a 3-0 Test se- and a single Twenty20 match. Andrew Strauss as the programme in a stable place.” ries whitewash against England new Managing Director It marks a comeback to the last month. Fof England Men’s Cricket, the ECB set-up for Giles, after he SQUADS Former England player New Zealand: Kane Williamson England and Wales Cricket Board was sacked as England’s one-day Jonathan Lewis was named as (capt), Tom Latham, Jeet Raval, announced yesterday. international coach in 2014. the side’s new batting coach this Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Colin Giles, who is Sport Director at Giles’ credentials will be test- week, joining Australia’s Steve Captain Dinesh Chandimal (second from right) and his men are coming off a 3-0 series whitewash against de Grandhomme, BJ Watling, Warwickshire, will be responsi- ed over the next 12 months as Rixon, who was brought in as England last month. Will Young, Tim Southee, Matt ble for building the coaching and England host the 50-over World fi elding coach last week. Henry, Ajaz Patel, Trent Boult, management structure to sup- Cup and the Ashes series against Sri Lanka’s bowling coach suspended this month for hav- he told Wellington’s Dominion series win over Pakistan in 49 Neil Wagner port the England men’s cricket Australia. Nuwan Zoysa was suspended by ing an illegal bowling action, Post newspaper. years, to give coach Gary Stead a Sri Lanka: Dinesh Chandimal teams across all formats. The appointment follows a the International Cricket Coun- and the national team’s selec- “It’s not a matter for us. We’re winning start to his tenure. (capt), Dimuth Karunaratne, Former England captain Strauss month-long recruitment proc- cil in October after he was ac- tion panel was sacked over the trying to regroup as a team, do Stead said he was not taking Sri Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya de stepped down from his position in ess led by ECB chief executive cused of match-fi xing and other England series loss. our best, and trying to win.” Lanka lightly and was concerned Silva, Angelo Mathews, Roshen October to support his wife Ruth Tom Harrison. “corrupt conduct”. Opening batsman Dimuth The Sri Lankans, ranked sixth his players may be drained after Silva, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), in her fi ght against cancer. “Ashley was the standout can- That same month, ex-chief Karunaratne admitted it was in the world, also have a poor Test wrapping up series against Paki- Danushka Gunathilaka, Lahiru Giles played 54 tests for Eng- didate amongst a very strong selector and former captain diffi cult to block out the up- record against the Black Caps in stan in Abu Dhabi last Saturday. Thirimanne, Sadeera Samaraw- land and later worked as a na- fi eld,” Harrison said. was charged heaval and focus on the upcom- New Zealand, winning only two “Some guys are still strug- ickrama, Dilruwan Perera, Lak- tional selector from 2008-2014. “He will bring a fresh per- for failing to cooperate with a ing two-Test series. of 17 matches against them. gling with jetlag and we going shan Sandakan, Suranga Lakmal, “I am delighted to be joining spective to the role and build on match-fi xing probe. “It’s not easy, swapping man- Fourth-ranked New Zealand from the extreme conditions Nuwan Pradeep, Kasun Rajitha, the ECB and shaping the future the excellent work carried out Adding to their woes, off - agement... but we’re going to enter the series full of confi dence of low, slow, turning wickets to Lahiru Kumara, Dushmantha of England cricket throughout by Andrew Strauss over the past spinner Akila Dananjaya was the same basics and everything,” after securing their fi rst away Test probably a hard, fast bouncy Ba- Chameera. the men’s game,” the 45-year- three and a half years.” Gulf Times Saturday, December 15, 2018 3 FOOTBALL

EPL SPOTLIGHT Guardiola boosted by timely return of ‘Trophies matter’, Aguero, De Bruyne

Reuters Manchester

anchester City’s in- says Mourinho fl uential duo Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne are in con- Mtention to face Everton at home in the Premier League today, as they look to rebound from their fi rst domestic defeat of the sea- son last weekend. ahead of United vs City boss Pep Guardiola told a news conference on Friday that both players had come through training this week unscathed and might feature against a side City have not beaten at home in the last two seasons. “He (Aguero) did the last two Liverpool clash training sessions. On Thursday, he trained with the team. He Liverpool are top of the Premier League before the weekend round of matches has no pain and we will decide,” Guardiola said. AFP “With KDB (De Bruyne), it is Manchester the same case as Sergio — he has no pain but we will see.” Ahead of a packed festive ose Mourinho says success is best schedule with six games in the measured in trophies as he pre- FIXTURES space of 20 days, City’s squad pares to take his injury-hit Man- (1500 GMT unless stated) may be stretched with David Sil- now led by the attack-minded chester United squad to high-fl y- Today: Manchester City v Everton va, Danilo, Benjamin Mendy and coach Marco Silva. Jing Liverpool tomorrow. (1230), Crystal Palace v Leicester, Claudio Bravo all sidelined. “We make good games but Liverpool are top of the Premier League Huddersfield v Newcastle, Tottenham Defender John Stones was we didn’t win, we dropped four before the weekend round of matches but v Burnley, Watford v Cardiff , Wolver- forced off in City’s 2-1 win over points,” the Spaniard said. have yet to win a trophy under the man- hampton v Bournemouth, Fulham v Hoff enheim in the Champions “Tomorrow is another game, agement of Jurgen Klopp, who has been in West Ham (1730) League on Wednesday and his the Everton team has changed charge since October 2015. Tomorrow: Brighton v Chelsea fi tness will be assessed ahead of completely with (Gylfi ) Sigurds- The 18-times English champions have (1330), Southampton v Arsenal (1330), the weekend. son and Richarlison, (Lucas) won just one prize in the past 12 years — Liverpool v Manchester United (1600) Yet Guardiola said the mount- Digne and Yerry Mina — it is a the League Cup under Kenny Dalglish in ing injury list would not force the top side. 2012 — despite featuring in two European club into the transfer market in “I’m really impressed with fi nals. January. how they have done so far. It will Mourinho won the Europa League and “No, we are not going to sign be a tough, tough game...” FA Cup in his fi rst season at Old Traff ord anyone,” he said of his second- Their task will be made easier but ended last season empty-handed placed side, who sit one point should the club’s record goals- and his team are lagging 16 points behind behind unbeaten leaders Liver- corer Aguero return to the line- Klopp’s side in this season’s title race. pool. up. “I think trophies matter, yeah,” said They will reclaim top spot for The Argentine has been out Mourinho. “I think it matters, especially at least 24 hours by securing a since the beginning of the month when you have the potential to fi ght for point against Everton, with Liv- with a muscle injury. trophies and when you clearly say the ob- erpool playing City’s rivals Man- In that time, City have scored jective is to win the trophies. chester United tomorrow. seven goals in four matches in “I think sometimes just to say it is not Yet Guardiola was wary of the all competitions — a relative- very intelligent. But when you have the threat posed by seventh-place ly modest tally for a side who potential you have nothing to hide. Manchester United’s Everton, having drawn his last notched a record 106 strikes in “I don’t read much but I think they Portuguese manager two home matches with the side the league last season. (Liverpool) have said that their objective Jose Mourinho. is to win the Premier League,” he added. Even though Klopp has yet to win sil- WARNING verware at Anfi eld, Mourinho acknowl- edges that the Liverpool manager has built a team in his own image, full of at- “You spend money on the best possible Anthony Martial, Luke Shaw, Matteo decision,” he said. tacking intent. furniture and then you are ready to live in Darmian, Diogo Dalot, Scott McTominay “Apart from that, the other players who Premier League calls By contrast, the United manager be- an amazing house.” and Marcos Rojo will be assessed to as- didn’t travel were not fi t to play in Valen- lieves he is still a long way from having Mourinho faces taking a depleted squad certain whether they can return against cia. All of them had injuries and they were a team that refl ects the way he wants to to Anfi eld on Sunday, with several players Liverpool. not ready. on fans to behave play. battling to recover from the injuries that Goalkeeper David de Gea and mid- “All of them didn’t train yesterday again “A football team is not just about kept them out of Wednesday’s Champi- fi elder Nemanja Matic, who were rested and today there will be a little introduc- AFP London derby at Arsenal after spending the money,” said Mourinho. “A ons League defeat in Valencia. against Valencia, will return, but United’s tion to training — I don’t want to say test London a banana skin was thrown onto football team is a little bit like a house. A Defender Victor Lindelof and forward manager remains unsure how many play- — to see the answer, to see if we can in- the pitch in the direction of house is not just about buying your fur- Alexis Sanchez will defi nitely miss the ers he will have to choose from. crease it a little bit tomorrow to have them Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as niture. You have to do work on the house game as they continue to recover from “In Valencia, only De Gea and Matic available for Sunday. I hope that some will he Premier League pub- he celebrated putting the Gun- and when it’s ready you buy the furniture. hamstring injuries. were available to play and didn’t travel by be available but for sure some will not be.” lished a message to fans ners ahead. With a packed fes- yesterday calling on tive schedule to come, the Pre- them to support their mier League has asked for any teamsT in the right way following abuse to be reported. PRAISE recent incidents of abuse that “Some brilliant football has have blighted the game. been played this Premier League Raheem Sterling was subject- season and the vast majority of Klopp says United have ‘unbelievable quality’ ed to alleged racial abuse dur- fans have generated exciting and ing Manchester City’s defeat at passionate atmospheres in sta- AFP “I was never interested in the points of fi elder Paul Pogba, who has not been in the on the injury list. Midfi elder James Milner Chelsea last week. diums,” the statement said. London Manchester United and I am not today,” he starting line-up for the past two Premier played at right-back recently and Nath- The England forward later is- “However, there have been said yesterday League matches. aniel Clyne has returned to fi tness but sued a statement accusing the incidents recently where a very “I am aware of the criticism and stuff Klopp was asked whether he thought has barely featured since the beginning of British media of fuelling racism small minority have behaved iverpool manager Jurgen Klopp but when we analyse them and switch off United were better with or without the last season. Klopp admits he may have to in the way it reports certain sto- unacceptably. says Manchester United have “un- the sound there is a lot of quality. There is World Cup winner but said he would not get creative but that is unlikely to involve ries about black players. “As we head into the festive believable quality” despite their speed, technique, physical strength, pret- comment beyond calling him a “world- spending in January. “A crisis is if you feel Chelsea banned four sup- season, with matches com- struggles this season, playing ty much everything. class player”. it is a crisis,” he said.”With Trent, it’s not porters pending an investiga- ing thick and fast, we ask all downL his own team’s growing injury prob- They still have (David) de Gea in goal, He said he is unlikely to make a move as serious as with the other two boys, but tion and were then forced to supporters to get behind their lems ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League unbelievable. They have strikers they during the January transfer window after of course it’s not top-class news, that’s condemn anti-Semitic chant- teams in passionate, positive clash. can switch between (Marcus) Rashford, insisting his mounting injury problems in clear.” A back problem restricted Clyne to ing during Thursday’s Europa and respectful ways. Support Liverpool are top of the Premier League (Romelu) Lukaku, (Jesse) Lingard, (Antho- defence are not a crisis. just fi ve appearances in the fi nal few weeks League tie with Vidi in Buda- for a club should never include heading into the weekend fi xtures, 16 ny) Martial, unbelievable quality.” Right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold of last season and his injury issues have pest. excessive aggression or dis- points ahead of Jose Mourinho’s side, but Mourinho has been wrestling with the (foot) and Joel Matip (broken collarbone) continued into the current campaign but A Tottenham fan was also ar- crimination towards the oppo- the Klopp is taking nothing for granted. problem of how to get the best out of mid- this week joined Joe Gomez (broken leg) his return to full training is timely. rested during the recent north sition.”

LA LIGA Barca to face demons as Levante host leaders AFP weekend for the same opponent many seventh. ’s vulnerabilities can lecano today, which will be their last Madrid believed knocked the stuffi ng out of be more easily shrugged off while they league game before setting off for the them last season, three days before are the league’s frontrunners and those United Arab Emirates and the Club their collapse to Roma. around them have problems of their World Cup. arcelona will head to Levante Perhaps Valverde has since heed- own. Atletico Madrid have fewer problems tomorrow night top of La Liga ed accusations he was naive, that he Real Madrid also rested players at the back and more up front, where and with a score to settle. chased the unbeaten season when ro- against CSKA Moscow on Wednesday goals, particularly away from home, Seven months ago, they were tating his players could have helped but lost 3-0 at home, the Russians be- have been hard to come by. Btwo games away from becoming the them go further in Europe. coming the fi fth side to score three or Barca and Real’s troubles are there fi rst team to fi nish a Spanish top-fl ight He has appeared keener to make more against them this season. for Atletico to exploit but if they are season unbeaten since Real Madrid in changes this term and in those games, And while Ousmane Dembele’s slop- three points off the top when their ri- 1932, and even then there were only 18 Barcelona have also dropped points. piness off the pitch continues to vex vals have stumbled, how will they keep games in a 10-team division. Just as Levante tore them to shreads Barca, Real have their own unruly at- pace when they inevitably improve? It would have been a remarkable feat, on the break, Barca still look vulnerable tacker in Isco, who was whistled by his a feather in the cap for their coach Er- against speed too. own fans during the CSKA defeat and Fixtures (times GMT) nesto Valverde to help soothe the pain Sergio Busquets has been exposed. allowed his frustration to boil over. Today: Getafe v Real Sociedad (1200), of a quarter-fi nals exit from the Cham- Gerard Pique has been off the pace. “What do you want?” he seemed to Real Valladolid v Atletico Madrid (1515), pions League. If La Liga was ordered on fewest goals shout at one point towards the stands. Real Madrid v Rayo Vallecano (1730), But Levante had other ideas, scoring conceded, Barcelona would sit 13th. Later, he passed up the captain’s Eibar v Valencia (1945) three times in 10 minutes to lead Barca Barcelona’s Spanish coach Ernesto Valverde. Levante might feel the plan they ex- armband too. “I tried to give the arm- Tomorrow: Sevilla v Girona (1100), 5-1 before prevailing 5-4.”We are angry ecuted so brilliantly back in May still band to Isco,” said Marcelo.”He told me Espanyol v Real Betis (1515), Huesca v not to have come through this game 16 of the Champions League this time, cluding Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, Luis holds. that I had to give it to Dani Carvajal, Villarreal (1730), Levante v Barcelona and to lose the opportunity to fi nish Barcelona drew at home to Tottenham Suarez, Gerard Pique and Marc-Andre The surge away from the relega- why I don’t know.” (1945) unbeaten,” Valverde said. on Tuesday when Valverde took the ter Stegen. tion zone under Paco Lopez has been Madrid should have little trouble Monday : Alaves v Athletic Bilbao On their way to qualifying for the last chance to rest several key players, in- The irony is they will be fresh this maintained and the team currently sit against their city neighbours Rayo Val- (2000) Gulf Times 4 Saturday, December 15, 2018 FOOTBALL

EUROPA LEAGUE Juventus tackle Torino as ’s out of Europe, elite reel aft er Eintracht fans run Euro maulings Fortounis’ penalty nine minutes from time saw Olympiakos move riot at Lazio into second place in Group F ahead of ’s Milan

Juventus’ Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo reacts during their UEFA Champions League group H football match against Young Boys at the Stade de Suisse stadium on December 12.

AFP cause us problems.” Milan Carlo Ancelotti’s Napoli head for Sardinia to play Cagliari after a dramatic 1-0 defeat at Liver- hampions Juventus pool. tackle city rivals Torino “Going out like this hurts, but with pride at stake as It- we have to pick ourselves up and aly’s top teams return to focus on the trip to Cagliari,” said Cthe home comforts of Serie A this captain Marek Hamsik whose weekend licking their wounds side visit Inter Milan on Boxing after a bruising week in Europe. Day. Juventus travel cross-town to Both Inter Milan and Roma the Stadio Olimpico looking to have struggled in recent weeks. maintain their eight-point ad- Luciano Spalletti’s Inter had vantage at the top of Serie A after been on a seven-match winning their year-long unbeaten record streak at the start of November. away from home ended with a But four points in as many shock 2-1 Champions League de- games has seen Inter drop 14 feat by Young Boys in Bern. points behind Juventus. Cristiano Ronaldo and his And they crashed out of the teammates’ pride took a knock Champions League after being in but the defeat was held 1-1 at home by PSV Eind- ultimately painless as Juventus hoven. still won their group ahead of Goalkeeper Samir Handanovic Manchester United who lost 2-1 warned that a victory at home, in Valencia. even against relegation-threat- Both Napoli and Inter Milan ened Udinese, would give the crashed out of the elite European club a boost. competition as Roma — already “Winning is the best medicine through to the knock-out rounds in situations like this,” said the — fell 2-1 at Viktoria Plzen. Slovenian goalkeeper. AC Milan were eliminated “We need to fi nd that spark from the Europa League with a again.” Olympiakos’ Greek Kostas Fortounis (L) celebrates after scoring during their UEFA Europa league match against AC Milan at the Karaiskaki stadium in Piraeus on 3-1 loss to Greek club Olympia- The team have been hit by the Thursday night. kos, as Lazio were beaten 2-1 by absence of Belgian ace Radja ’s Eintracht Frankfurt, Nainggolan with an ankle injury, AFP following Milan’s 3-1 win over back from a goal down thanks to stoppage-time penalty meant free-kick, after an Ethan Am- but still advanced to the last 32. with fellow midfi elder Matias the Greeks in October, and they second-half strikes from Mijat nothing for the result nor the fi - padu own goal and Loic Nego’s All want to get back on track in Vecino also sidelined in recent end the group stage two points Gacinovic and Sebastien Haller. nal standings. sumptuous volley had put the the fi rst of four games in the run- games. behind group winners Real Betis, However, away fans charged “There will be things from a hosts a goal ahead. up to the end of the year. Spalletti’s future is also in lympiakos dumped AC who drew 0-0 at Dudelange. the pitch after Joaquin Correa’s performance perspective that “I’ve realised that there are doubt with the appointment of Milan out of the Eu- “It’s a bitter night... We 56th-minute opener, and subse- we can go away and look at,” said Qualifiers from the Europa two games Juventus refuse to former Juventus CEO Giuseppe ropa League yesterday shouldn’t have conceded the fi rst quently threw smoke bombs and Rodgers. League group stage: lose — against Inter Milan and Marotta as Inter’s new general after beating the sev- goal and it all went south from fl ares at both Lazio fans and the “But the campaign ended to- Bayer Leverkusen (GER), FC Torino,” said Ronaldo. manager on Thursday. Oen-time European champions then on. We should have done police. Last year’s runners-up night in terms of the qualifi ca- Zurich (SUI), Salzburg (AUT), Celtic The 33-year-old tasted victory Marotta worked with former 3-1 in a pulsating clash in Greece, better in the group and come to Marseille fi nished bottom of that tion and we’re through which is (SCO), Zenit St Petersburg (RUS), in his fi rst ‘Derby d’Italia’ against Chelsea manager Antonio Conte while Eintracht Frankfurt fans Greece already qualifi ed,” said group after losing 3-1 at home an absolutely huge eff ort from Slavia Prague (CZE), Dinamo Za- Inter last weekend with Mario at Juventus, winning three Serie ran riot during the German side’s Milan captain Ignazio Abate, to Apollon Limassol and ending everyone.” greb (CRO), Fenerbahce (TUR), Mandzukic scoring the only goal. A titles together. win at Lazio and Celtic made the who gave away the decisive spot- the group stage with just a single Earlier Rangers, who had to Arsenal (ENG), Sporting Lisbon And next up is the ‘Derby della The pressure is also on Roma knockout stages despite losing to kick by fouling former Roma point. Celtic looked to be follow- win at Rapid Vienna in their fi nal (POR), Real Betis (ESP), Olympia- Mole’ against Torino which Ju- coach Eusebio Di Francesco. Salzburg at Parkhead. player Vasilis Torosidis. ing Old Firm rivals Rangers out group game in order to qualify kos (GRE), Villarreal (ESP), Rapid ventus have not lost since April Nothing seems to be going Captain Kostas Fortounis’ Five Eintracht Frankfurt fans of the competition after Steven for the last 32, fi nished third in Vienna (AUT), Eintracht Frankfurt 2015. right for the capital side, who are penalty nine minutes from time had been arrested in clashes with Gerrard’s side fell 1-0 at Rapid Group G after losing 1-0 to group (GER), Lazio (ITA), Genk (BEL), “A derby is always beauti- down in eighth and host Genoa saw the Greeks move into sec- police in Rome ahead of their Vienna earlier on Thursday, but winners Rapid, Dejan Ljubicic Malmo (SWE), Sevilla (ESP), Kras- ful and we have to win,” warned before next week’s trip to Juven- ond place in Group F ahead of dead-rubber Group H match Tore Reginiussen’s equaliser four sealing the points in the 84th nodar (RUS), Dynamo Kiev (UKR), the former fi ve-time Ballon d’Or tus. Gennaro Gattuso’s Milan, who against Lazio as nearly 9,000 minutes from time for Rosenborg minute. Rennes (FRA), Chelsea (ENG), winner. thought they had squeaked Germans swamped the Stadio at RB Leipzig allowed Brendan The Austrians are through to BATE Borisov (BLR) Captain was Fixtures (all times GMT) through when Cristian Zapata Olimpico. Rodgers’ side to qualify second the knockout stages, level on 10 Qualifiers from third-place rested this week in preparation Today: Inter Milan v Udinese had pulled a goal back less than Eintracht had already com- from Group B, two points ahead points with group winners Vil- Champions League group- for Torino, who are sixth, but just (1700), Torino v Juventus (1930) two minutes after putting the fortably taken top spot in the of the Bundesliga outfi t. larreal.Chelsea, who had already stage finishes: four points off the Champions Tomorrow: SPAL v Chievo (1130), hosts 2-0 up with a comical own group thanks to winning all fi ve of Second-half goals from Munas won Group L, looked to be on Club Brugge (BEL), Inter Milan League places. Fiorentina v Empoli, Frosinone goal. Olympiakos fi nished level their previous games, while Lazio Dabbur and Fredrik Gulbrandsen their way to a perfect sixth win (ITA), Napoli (ITA), Galatasaray Walter Mazzarri’s side held AC v Sassuolo, Sampdoria v Parma on 10 points with Milan but qual- were also in the last 32 regardless meant that Salzburg topped the from six, but could only scrape a (TUR), Benfica (POR), Shakhtar Milan to a goalless draw at the (1400), Cagliari v Napoli (1700), ifi ed ahead of the Italians thanks of the result of the match, won group with a 100 % record after point at eliminated Vidi thanks Donetsk (UKR), Viktoria Plzen last weekend. Roma v Genoa (1930) to their superior goal diff erence 2-1 by the away side as they came a 2-1 win, while Olivier Ntcham’s to substitute Olivier Giroud’s late (CZE), Valencia (ESP) “Torino have improved a lot,” Monday: Atalanta v Lazio (1930) said Chiellini, “they can aim for Tuesday: Bologna v AC Milan Europe and they can certainly (1930) BOTTOMLINE Dortmund on target to fi nish 2018 as ‘Autumn champs’ SPOTLIGHT AFP they have won for each of the the theme, saying: “It’s a title won 2-0 at Monaco on Tuesday stay in the title race and stay Salah in line to Berlin last seven seasons. which has no meaning and we in the Champions League and two points ahead of Bayern, but Dortmund are on a five- haven’t achieved it yet, so it’s a raft of changes are expected trail Dortmund by seven. match Bundesliga winning not something which currently again. In-form stars like club Swiss midfielder Denis Za- keep African Player orussia Dortmund can streak and coach Lucien Favre concerns us.” captain Marco Reus, striker karia is suspended after a take a significant first said he was more interested in Of more pressing concern is Paco Alacer, wingers Jacob Br- fifth yellow card this season step towards break- picking up a maximum nine the fact midfielder Nuri Sahin, uun Larsen and Jadon Sancho while the key trio of Christoph of the Year award ing Bayern Munich’s points from their strenuous a product of Dortmund’s acad- are expected to face Bremen. Kramer, Matthias Ginter and Bstranglehold on the Bundesliga schedule of three league games emy who joined Werder in Au- Fresh from their thrilling 3-3 Jonas Hoffmann are all injured. Arsenal. Salah and 2015 African AFP title by beating Werder Bremen in just six days than winning gust, has been giving Bremen draw at Ajax, which confirmed “Hoffenheim are one of the Johannesburg Player of the Year Aubameyang today to become ‘Herbst- the title of autumn champions tips on how to beat the leaders. their passage into the last 16 top teams in Germany, but we are among fi ve nominees from meister’, or autumn champi- in his first season at Dortmund. “Of course we have talked of the Champions League as will travel there with confi- England’s top fl ight, with Man- ons. After hosting Bremen, Dort- about Dortmund,” Bremen group winners, third-placed dence,” said Gladbach coach itle-holder Mohamed chester City winger Algerian Dortmund are seven points mund travel to bottom side coach Florian Kohfeldt said Bayern are at second-from- Dieter Hecking. Salah of Egypt was winger Riyad Mahrez, who won clear in the table and a home Fortuna Duesseldorf on Tues- with a grin. bottom Hanover today again “Now other players have among 10 African stars the award in 2016 after helping win over Bremen at Signal day, then host second-placed The midfielder’s return to looking to close the nine-point their chance to face a strong Tnamed yesterday in Leicester City to a historic Pre- Iduna Park will confirm them Borussia Moenchengladbach a Signal Iduna Park also gives gap behind Dortmund. opponent.” a Premier League-dominated mier League title, joining them. as the top side in the first half week on Friday in a tough fin- Dortmund a chance to bid fare- The defending champions short-list for the 2018 CAF Play- Salah’s Senegalese Liverpool of the Bundesliga season which ish to 2018. well to the 30-year-old who have stopped rotating their Fixtures (all times 1430 GMT er of the Year award. team-mate Sadio Mane, and Ni- ends when the winter break “We have three games in six spent nine seasons with them squad, but Thiago Alcantara, unless stated) The 26-year-old scored 44 gerian Alex Iwobi of Arsenal are starts on December 23. days and it doesn’t do much and won the 2011 Bundesliga who won a penalty at Ajax, Today: Hoff enheim v Borussia goals for Liverpool in all com- the other candidates from the The unofficial title car- good to talk about anything title. and Kingsley Coman, who Moenchengladbach, Stuttgart petitions last season, his fi rst at most-watched football league ries neither a trophy nor prize else other than our next match “He well deserves it and we scored Bayern’s third goal off v Hertha Berlin, Augsbourg v Anfi eld afer moving from Roma, in the world. There are two goal- money, but 38 of the last 55 — full focus on Bremen,” said will use the opportunity to say the bench, are both pushing Schalke, Hanover 96 v Bayern and is set to be voted number one keepers vying to become the fi rst Herbstmeisters went on to be- Favre tersely, when asked what goodbye on Saturday,” added for starting places following Munich, Fortuna Duesseldorf v in Africa again. to win the award since Badou came German champions. it would mean to be autumn Zorc. injury. Freiburg, Borussia Dortmund v After a slow start to his sec- Zaki of Morocco 32 years ago — More significantly for the champions in his first season at Favre made 10 changes from Second-placed Borussia Werder Bremen (1730) ond season in England, Salah Cameroonian Andre Onana of Bundesliga, Dortmund are set Dortmund. the team which beat Schalke Moenchengladbach are with- Tomorrow: RB Leipzig v Mainz, is joint leading Premier League Ajax Amsterdam and Ugandan to finally break Bayern’s mo- The club’s sports direc- 2-1 away last Saturday in the out four key players at Hoffen- Eintracht Frankfurt v Bayer scorer on 10 goals with Gabonese Denis Onyango from South Af- nopoly on the honorary title tor Michael Zorc continued Bundesliga from the side which heim, where they need a win to Leverkusen (1700) Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of rican club Mamelodi Sundowns. Gulf Times Saturday, December 15, 2018 5 SPORT

NBA NHL Morrissey’s winner leads Jets over Oilers Harden’s 50-point Darnell Nurse made it a one- Reuters Winnipeg goal game by tucking home a rebound at 6:04 to kick off a one-sided second period, before osh Morrissey scored 41 Jujhar Khaira notched his sec- seconds into overtime, ond of the season by redirecting and Mark Scheifele col- a crossing pass at the 17:18 mark. lected one goal and two Alex Chiasson’s power-play goal triple-double in assistsJ as the host Winnipeg Jets with 1:05 remaining in the period erased a third-period defi cit to was his 13th goal of the season, beat the Edmonton Oilers 5-4 in which ties a career high. an exciting back-and-forth af- Talbot stopped 35 shots for the fair Thursday night. Oilers, who saw their four-game Goalie Connor Hellebuyck winning streak snapped. Leon made 22 saves in the victory, as Draisaitl and Connor McDavid Winnipeg extended its winning each collected two assists. Mc- Rockets victory streak to three games and is on David, who has 10 points in fi ve a 7-1-0 run. After blowing a 3-1 games, surpassed the 300-point ‘Honestly, we’re in a hole right now. You look at the standings, we’re in the 14th spot - it’s lead and trailing 4-3 going into mark in his career. the third period, the Jets domi- Meanwhile Jeff Petry contin- kind of depressing. But we’ve got to figure it out. We continue to fight our way through it’ nated the rest of the game, hold- ued his hot streak with a two- ing a 17-2 edge in shots in the goal eff ort to help the Montreal AFP third period. Scheifele evened Canadiens post a 6-4 win over Los Angeles the score just before the midway the visiting Carolina Hurricanes point of the period by burying a on Thursday. quick feed from Blake Wheeler. Petry gave Montreal its fi rst ames Harden’s monster 50-point Wheeler, Bryan Little, Dustin lead of the game 16:59 into the triple-double powered the Hou- Byfuglien and Morrissey all had second period, then added an ston Rockets to a 126-111 NBA vic- two-point games for Winnipeg. empty-net score in the fi nal two tory over LeBron James and the Scheifele has eight points in a minutes to clinch the victory. LosJ Angeles Lakers on Thursday. three-game point spree. The defenseman now has seven Harden, the reigning NBA Most Valu- Edmonton’s Ryan Spooner goals on the season, with fi ve of able player, added 11 assists and 10 re- started off the roller coaster of a those tallies (plus two assists) bounds for his second triple-double of game with a one-timer from the coming in his past six games. the season and his second 50-point game slot at 10:12 of the fi rst period, The teams combined for seven of what has been a frustrating campaign only to see the Jets take a 3-1 lead. goals during a wild third period, for the Rockets so far. Mathieu Perreault evened the with Andrew Shaw’s marker Houston led the league last season count at 15:43 of the opening 12:24 into the period ending up with 65 regular-season wins, but came frame with a nifty backhander as the game’s winning score. On into the contest next-to-last in the as he drove the net, and Nikolaj a partial two-on-one play, Shaw Western Conference. They gained a spot Ehlers scored 68 seconds later. took a pass from Shea Weber for as they continued to claw their way back Patrik Laine’s 22nd goal of the his ninth goal of the season. Mat- toward .500, improving to 13-14. season at 1:42 of the second peri- thew Peca, Brendan Gallagher “Honestly, we’re in a hole right now,” od - a hard wrister that beat Cam and Artturi Lehkonen scored Harden said. “You look at the standings, Talbot’s glove hand - had the Montreal’s other goals. Phil- we’re in the 14th spot - it’s kind of de- home crowd rocking. But that’s lip Danault and Kenny Agostino pressing. But we’ve got to fi gure it out. when the Oilers responded with each had two assists for the Ca- We continue to fi ght our way through it.” three consecutive goals. nadiens. Harden said early-season injuries and the addition of new players contributed to the shaky start to the season, but he remained confi dent the Rockets can be a force in the West. “I just believe and trust in all my guys,” he said. “We’ll continue to build.” Harden scored 11 points in the fourth quarter, when the Rockets - who led 90- 88 through three periods - fi nally pulled away in a game that featured 13 lead changes and was tied 12 times. He pulled down his 10th rebound with less than 90 seconds remaining for the 37th triple-double of his career. He has produced four of the 13 50-point triple- doubles ever recorded in the league. Chris Paul added 14 points and nine assists, Clint Capela chipped in 16 points and 14 rebounds and Danuel House add- ed 15 points off the bench for the Rockets. Winnipeg Jets’ Josh Morrissey’s (right) celebrates with Mark Scheifele James led the Lakers with 29 points after scoring an overtime goal against the Edmonton Oilers at Bell and Kyle Kuzma added 24, but the Lakers MTS Place. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports saw a two-game winning streak end. The San Antonio Spurs continued their rise up the Western Conference rankings with a fourth straight victory, Indians and Mariners swap sluggers 125-87 over the Los Angeles Clippers. Santana and Encarnacion LaMarcus Aldridge scored 27 points, connecting on 12 of 14 shots. That in- The Cleveland Indians have “In addition, by adding another cluded his fi rst three-pointer of the sea- traded first baseman and desig- draft pick for 2019, we have son. Rudy Gay scored 21 points and De- nated hitter Edwin Encarnacion another opportunity to add to Mar DeRozan and Marco Belinelli added to the Seattle Mariners for slug- the talent in our minor league 14 apiece as six Spurs players scored in ger Carlos Santana. system.” double fi gures. Cleveland also gave up a round The 14-year veteran has 380 It was the Spurs’ biggest win of the B draft pick in the deal which home rums in his career. season and gave them four wins in four was announced on Thursday. This marks a return to Cleve- games of their current six-game home- Houston Rockets guard James Harden (right) celebrates with guard Chris Paul after scoring a basket during the fourth quarter The 35-year-old Encarnacion land for Santana, who was just stand. They had arrived back in Texas against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports blasted 32 homers and 107 RBIs traded to the Mariners earlier having lost two on the road to fall three and batted.246 with the Indians this month. Santana started his games under .500 for the fi rst time in two tory to suit up for 21 seasons for the same 23 turnovers. A trip south of the border last season. career with Cleveland in 2010. decades. team when he came into the game in the RESULTS proved fruitful for the Orlando Magic, His RBI total was good enough Santana, 32, posted a.229 “We had a lot of games on the road and fi rst quarter. who ended a three-game skid with a 97- for third in the American average with 24 home runs Phoenix 99-89 Dallas that kind of caught up with us,” Aldridge He played just over six minutes and 91 victory over the Chicago Bulls in Mex- League and he leads all active and 86 RBI last season with the said. “Coming home, guys wanted to re- scored two points - banking in a jump Orlando 97-91 Chicago ico City. Center Nikola Vucevic scored players with seven straight Philadelphia Phillies. charge and take care of this home stand.” shot on his fi rst attempt of the night. San Antonio 125-87 Clippers 26 points and pulled down 10 rebounds seasons hitting at least 30 Cleveland made another trade The Phoenix Suns took care of busi- Mavs coach Rick Carlisle said the team for the Magic, who trailed by four points home runs. with the Tampa Bay Rays at the Houston 126-111 Lakers ness at home, downing Dallas 99-89 to were “thrilled” to have Nowitzki back on with 7:35 remaining. “We’re excited to add a proven same time, acquiring first base- spoil the season debut of Mavericks icon the fl oor, but the lowly Suns spoiled the bench and fellow reserve Josh Jackson Vucevic scored 10 points in the fourth off ensive performer in Edwin man Jake Bauers in exchange Dirk Nowitzki. party, snapping a 10-game losing streak. contributed 14. quarter as the Magic secured the vic- Encarnacion,” said Mariners for infielder Yandy Diaz and Nowitzki, who had ankle surgery in T.J. Warren led Phoenix with 30 Harrison Barnes led the Mavericks tory in front of a crowd of 20,021 at Arena general manager Jerry Dipoto. minor-leaguer Cole Sulser. April, became the fi rst player in NBA his- points. Jamal Crawford added 17 off the with 15 points, but Dallas were undone by Ciudad de Mexico.

FOCUS Complacency biggest challenge for Warriors: coach Reuters pionship motivation dips dur- of veteran forward David West New York ing his playing years, where he prior to the start of the season. won fi ve NBA titles, and said on- But help is on the way. court precision has to replace Four-time All Star DeMar- he Golden State Warri- raw desire during the 82-game cus Cousins, who was picked up ors need to stay hungry regular season. during the off season from the for success or see their “You have to be able to rely New Orleans Pelicans, could re- hopes of a third succes- more on execution and discipline portedly play for the Warriors for Tsive title evaporate, head coach rather than emotion,” he said. the fi rst time in February after Steve Kerr told reporters on “Looking at last night’s game, tearing his left Achilles in Janu- Thursday. we didn’t have much emotion ary this year. The towering cent- Kerr’s team put in an unin- but we also had very little disci- er, who is nicknamed “Boogie,” spired performance on Wednes- pline or execution,” he said. has been working on his condi- day, falling 113-93 to the visit- “That’s a receipt for disaster tioning, Kerr said, although he ing Toronto Raptors in a loss the against a great team.” declined to give an exact time- coach attributed to a gnawing The 20-point loss to the East- line for his debut. but natural complacency among ern Conference-leading Raptors “DeMarcus is coming along his players. was remarkable in part because well, he’s practiced a couple “When you win a champion- the Warriors were at full strength times down at Santa Cruz this ship, part of you forgets how after starters Stephen Curry and week,” he said. hard it is after the glow of the Draymond Green returned to the “He needs to feel confi dent celebration, the parade and eve- lineup after being sidelined with with the Achilles and his rhythm rything else,” he said. “You for- injuries. and his timing so we’re not going get how much work you need to The loss also laid bare the to rush him back. We’re going to put in. And then you do it again. Warriors biggest weakness - a help him through that process,” The same thing happens.” lack of depth, especially on de- he said. “When it happens, it Kerr said he felt post-cham- fence following the retirement happens.” Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr Gulf Times 6 Saturday, December 15, 2018 SPORT

RUGBY GOLF Saksansin leads in Hansen to quit as Indonesian Masters AFP

hai golfer Poom Sak- sansin took the led on the second round at the Indonesian All Blacks coach TMasters yesterday and broke his personal best record in a play suspended due to a fad- Poom Saksansin ing light. The 25-year-old Poom led be able to post a 65 today is a the second round clubhouse really good achievement,” he with nine-under-par 63 to said. Former US Open cham- take lead in the second round pion Justin Rose from Eng- aft er World Cup of the BNI Indonesian Mas- land, whose fi rst round on ters. “I was just lucky today, I Thursday was disrupted by a ‘I think it’s right for the team to have someone new, some fresh eyes, some fresh thinking’ think I like this course. I won severe thunderstorm, remains here before two years ago. My six shots back of Poom after AFP putting was very good today,” he signed for a 68. he said. Rose was previously only Poom, who won the 2016 one shot behind his compa- the Indonesian Masters in triot John Catlin and South ll Blacks coach Steve 2016 compiled a two-day to- Korea’s Sungho Lee, who Hansen announced tal of 14-under-par 130, lead shared the lead at the Asian yesterday that he will his fellow Thai golfers Suradit Tour’s season-ending event retire after next year’s Yongcharoenchai and Jakrap- with opening rounds of 66 on WorldA Cup, saying the world han Premsirigorn who scored Thursday. “It was a bit more champions need a change once a 66 and 65 respectively. windy today. Today was tough he completes his “toughest” Jakraphan who missed the to make birdies, I wasn’t quite campaign yet with the New Zea- cut in six straight events be- on my game,” Rose said after landers in . fore fi nishing tied-second the game. “I think it’s right for the team in Pakistan in October said Yesterday’s play was sus- to have someone new after the sharing second place gave him pended due to fading light at World Cup, some fresh eyes, a much needed confi dence in 5.50pm local time, leaving 20 some fresh thinking,” he told re- the tournament. players having to return on porters, hinting that his assist- “I’m playing on this golf Saturday morning to com- ant Ian Foster was his preferred course for the fi rst time and to plete their rounds. successor. Hansen, a former policeman, took over in late 2011 after work- FOCUS ing as Graham Henry’s assistant for seven years and guided the All Blacks to World Cup vic- tory in 2015. The team have had a Koreas to meet mortgage on rugby’s number one ranking under his stewardship, never relinquishing the top spot, IOC in February on and they will seek a third straight world title in Japan next year. With Hansen in charge, the joint Olympic bid All Blacks have posted 85 Test victories, eight losses and three AFP the Olympics in the same year. draws, a win rate of almost 90 They have yet to determine percent. “His record is unsur- which Olympic sport will passed... whatever happens next have North and South Kore- in Steve’s career, his place as a he two Koreas yes- ans on the same team, but the New Zealand rugby legend is New Zealand All Blacks coach Steve Hansen speaks during a press conference in Auckland yesterday. (AFP) terday agreed to hold South’s chief delegate said a guaranteed,” New Zealand Rug- talks with the Inter- decision will be reached in the by chairman Brent Impey said. During his tenure, Hansen challenge posed by what will be national Olympic next few weeks. “We agreed While Fred Allen’s All Blacks has displayed a keen eye for tal- his fi nal campaign in charge of Johnson to be Wallabies director of rugby: report TCommittee on their joint bid to narrow down the sports to were unbeaten in the 1960s, he ent and instilled a team ethos of the team. “It’s probably going to for the 2032 Summer Games those that will see a synergy was only in charge for 14 Tests. constant improvement. be the toughest World Cup from Michael Cheika will survive the to Cheika staying, ’s in February, Seoul said, as a eff ect under co-operation be- Hansen’s success rate is un- It paid off after 2015, when a competitive point of view,” he axe as Wallabies coach but his director of rugby and former rapid diplomatic thaw takes tween the South and North,” matched by any All Blacks a string of legendary players said. powers will be curtailed with Wallabies assistant Johnson will hold on the peninsula. vice sports minister Roh Tae- coach in the professional era, including Richie McCaw, Dan “The northern hemisphere Scotland-based Scott Johnson assume a role above him. North and South Korean of- kang said after the meeting, with Henry on 85 percent, John Carter, Ma’a Nonu and Conrad have really come to the party appointed director of rugby It said Rugby Australia secretly fi cials will meet with the IOC according to pool reports. The Mitchell 82, John Hart 76 and Smith retired but the All Blacks’ since the last one and got them- above him, a report said yester- met with the -born John- in Lausanne, Switzerland on two Koreas technically remain Wayne Smith 70. success continued with barely a selves in good nick. I think Aus- day. Cheika has faced a mount- son during the Wallabies recent February 15 to discuss the pros- at war after the 1950-53 Ko- “Steve Hansen’s the best All blip. tralia and South Africa are capa- ing backlash from dismayed tour of Europe and has been pects of co-hosting the 2032 rean War ended with an armi- Blacks coach we’ve had. He’s Hansen had originally in- ble of winning it if they get their fans and former players after working on a deal to bring Olympics, according to a joint stice instead of a peace treaty done a fantastic job,” Hart told tended to step down in 2017, stuff sorted.” winning just four of Australia’s him home. Johnson became statement following a cross- with military clashes often news website stuff .co.nz. mid-way through the World Cup Hansen coached domestically 13 Tests this year. Despite the the Scottish director of rugby border meeting on Friday. erupting along the frontier. His departure will start a cycle, but New Zealand Rugby with Canterbury and was an as- dire results and a slide to sixth in 2013 and last worked with Making a joint bid for the But ties improved markedly scramble for his position, with persuaded him to extend his sistant at Super Rugby level be- in the world rankings, Rugby Australia at the 2007 World Cup 2032 Games was part of a after Pyongyang sent athletes Foster and Ireland’s Kiwi-born contract until 2019. fore moving to Wales in 2001 to Australia chief Raelene Castle as attack coach under John broader agreement made and top delegates - including coach Joe Schmidt considered He was adamant that this work under Henry. has consistently backed him to Connolly. Rugby Australia told between the North’s leader leader Kim’s younger sister the frontrunners to replace him. time, the decision to retire was He took over the top job in take the team to the World Cup AFP it was unable to comment Kim Jong-un and the South’s - to the 2018 Winter Games “I’ve got opinions but for once fi nal, and said he was going Cardiff in 2002 but had mixed in Japan next year. other than “we haven’t finalised President Moon Jae-in dur- held in the South in February, in my life I’ll keep those opin- to spend more time with his results before returning to New A board meeting of the govern- the review process”. ing their third summit in for which the two rivals also ions to myself because I don’t family. Zealand two years later to again ing body this week to assess Cheika’s fate has split the rugby Pyongyang in September. formed a joint women’s ice think it’s helpful for the process,” “What’s next? I don’t know. work as Henry’s off sider, this the season, with Cheika in world with Wallabies legend If it materialises, it will hockey team. Kim has made Hansen said when asked about a So don’t bother asking,” he said, time with the All Blacks. attendance, ended without a Matt Burke this week calling for mark the fi rst time for the Ol- a series of reconciliatory ges- successor. adding that his priority was to Henry said his former protege decision on his future. Chair- him and his coaching staff to be ympics, summer or winter, to tures since then, including However, he did let slip that guide the All Blacks to victory could leave the All Blacks satis- man Cameron Clyne said his sacked, describing his situation be shared by two countries. a landmark summit with US Foster “would be a great head in Japan, which would be their fi ed with his achievements. fate would be decided “ahead of was “untenable”. The two sides also agreed to President Donald Trump in coach - he’s developed as a coach fourth World Cup victory over- “I think he’ll feel at peace,” he Christmas”. But at the same time current form unifi ed teams at the To- in June and three and as a man and has some great all. Hansen said it would be the said. “He’s been coaching inter- The Sydney Daily Telegraph Wallaby David Pocock threw his kyo Summer Paralympics in summits with Moon - a dove qualities and his understanding fi fth World Cup he has attended, national rugby for nigh on 20 reported that as a compromise full support behind him. 2020, in addition to their ear- who advocates dialogue with of the game is great”. and he was still excited at the years.” lier deal to jointly compete at the North.

NFL SWIMMING Chargers stun Chiefs to clinch playoff berth Titmus sets new world record

AFP Kansas City converted three AFP Los Angeles third downs on the drive, which Shanghai was aided by three penalties on the Chargers. Los Ange- he Los Angeles Charg- les responded with a 75-yard ustralian prodigy Ari- ers rallied with two late drive that ended with Jackson’s arne Titmus broke the touchdowns and a cou- touchdown run and Michael women’s short-course rageous two-point con- Bradley’s extra point that pulled 400m freestyle record Tversion with four seconds left the Chargers within 28-21. yesterdayA to grab her second Thursday in a thrilling 29-28 After the defense forced the gold medal at the World Swim- NFL triumph over the Chiefs in Patrick Mahomes-led Chiefs ming Championships in . Kansas City. off ense to punt, Rivers and Wil- In a battle of the talented Trailing 28-14 early in the liams took over. teenagers, the 18-year-old fourth quarter, Chargers quar- Rivers admitted that at mo- - dubbed the “Terminator” - terback Philip Rivers engi- ments he thought two fi rst-half blasted away the twin threat neered two touchdown drives turnovers - including an inter- of home hopes Wang Jianjiahe in the last four minutes of reg- ception on his fi rst passing at- and Li Bingjie in Hangzhou’s ulation. tempt of the game - would prove 25m pool. Titmus claimed a Justin Jackson’s three-yard too much to overcome. dominant victory in 3mins scoring run with 3:49 to play The Chiefs took advantage of 53.92secs, narrowly bettering trimmed the defi cit. Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers throws a pass during the fi rst interception with a 49- the 3:53.97 clocked in October After the Chiefs were unable their NFL game against Kansas City Chiefs. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports yard drive that ended with Maho- by rival Wang, who is just 16. to answer, Rivers responded with mes connecting with Demarcus Wang, an easy winner in the Ariarne Titmus poses with 400m freestyle gold at the 14th FINA World another scoring drive capped by thanks to a better record against sion, rather than an extra point Robinson from fi ve yards out for 800m freestyle, was forced into Swimming Championships (25m) Finals in Hangzhou yesterday. (Reuters) a one-yard TD pass to Williams. division rivals, so the Chargers to tie. the fi rst touchdown of the game. silver, 0.64secs behind Titmus, Rather than go for an ex- need to fi nish with a better record “We didn’t come here to tie,” Mahomes hit Darrel Williams with Li a distant 4.07secs off . can’t believe it and for it to be nickname “Terminator” - her tra point to force overtime, the to seize the division crown. “It’s he said. “We came here to win.” with an 11-yarder to make it 14- Titmus also claimed gold on a short-course world record is Dad calls her “Arnie” and that Chargers went for the riskier good to be in the playoff s, but The victory ended the Charg- 0. The Chargers narrowed the Tuesday, the fi rst day of compe- something. I am someone who became Terminator in Aus- two-point conversion, and Riv- we’re not done,” Chargers coach ers’ nine-game losing streak to gap with Rivers’ three-yard TD tition, in the 200m freestyle in does not pride themselves on tralian media after the Arnold ers found Williams in the end Anthony Lynn said. the Chiefs - a skid that dated pass to Williams - a preview of an Australian and Oceania record speed, but I will take it.” Schwarzenegger character. zone to seal the stunning come- “We want to win this divi- back to 2013. That was also the the last-gasp heroics. “We just time of 1:51.38. “I am a little bit It has been a breakthrough There was a surprise in the back. sion. So we’ve got work to do, last year the Chargers reached kept playing,” Rivers said. in shock,” she said after her lat- year for the young Australian, men’s 50m freestyle when The Chargers clinched a play- and we’re going to need a little the playoff s. “This place is unbelievable to est triumph. “I knew the Chi- who won three golds at the Caeleb Dressel of the United off berth, and pulled level with help to get that done, but that’s The Chiefs had seized a 28- play in,” he added of the raucous nese girl (Wang) would go out Gold Coast Commonwealth States, who has been likened to the Chiefs atop the AFC West our goal.” 14 lead with a 75-yard, 13-play Arrowhead Stadium. fast and I was worried she would Games earlier in 2018. She US legend Michael Phelps, was division at 11-3. Lynn said it was a “no brainer” scoring drive that ate up nearly “Hard, tough. This team just have a little left in the tank at only turned 18 in September beaten into silver by ’s The Chiefs own the tiebreaker to go for the two-point conver- eight minutes on the clock. kept fi ghting.” the end, but I held her off . “I and has already earned the Vladimir Morozov. Gulf Times Saturday, December 15, 2018 7 SPORT

TENNIS SPOTLIGHT , Singapore battle London to Wimbledon set to host ATP Finals

AFP in Tokyo in 1970 and have been London staged in some of the major cit- ies around the world, including New York, Sydney, and Shang- okyo and Singapore are hai. expand aft er golf battling London to host Its longest stay in a single the ATP Finals from 2021 venue was across 13 consecutive to 2025, the governing editions at Madison Square Gar- Tbody of men’s tennis announced den from 1977 to 1989 but it has yesterday. been held at London’s O2 arena The shortlist for the end-of- since 2009 – drawing more than season showpiece also includes 250,000 fans annually. the northern English city of The tournament has been won club agrees to sell Manchester and Italy’s Turin, by many of the all-time greats, while the London deal, which including Bjorn Borg, John ‘The decision of the Wimbledon Park Golf Club members to vote in favour of the runs until 2020, could be ex- McEnroe, Pete Sampras, Roger tended. The announcement of Federer and Novak Djokovic. acquisition off er is a hugely significant moment for the AELTC and The Championships’ the candidates follows an ex- The season-ending event fea- tensive bid application process tures only the world’s best eight that began in August, in which qualifi ed singles players and more than 40 cities worldwide doubles teams following a year- expressed an interest in hosting long race to qualify. the event. Federer and Djokovic were The fi nal phase will see the split at last month’s tourna- ATP visit the cities, with a deci- ment, won for the fi rst time by sion on the successful candidate Germany’s Alexander Zverev, to be made not before March over whether it should remain in 2019. London. “The level of interest we have Federer, who has won the received worldwide through- event a record six times, twice in out the bid application process London, said the British capital refl ects the rich heritage of this was the perfect fi t. unique tournament, as well as But world number one Djoko- the success of the event at the vic, who has won the event fi ve O2 since 2009,” said Chris Ker- times – four times in London – mode, ATP executive chairman said he was in favour of moving and president. the tournament around to pro- The ATP Finals were fi rst held mote the sport.

HOCKEY India coach apologises to fans aft er WCup exit

Reuters their World Cup exit proves Bhubaneswar, there is still plenty of work to be done. Indian captain Manpreet ndia’s hockey coach Haren- Singh said there was little point dra Singh has apologised af- in contesting umpiring decisions ter a 2-1 quarter-fi nal defeat after the match by the ended “What’s the use of appealing Itheir hopes of winning the World now? We have lost the World Cup on home soil. Cup anyway,” he said. “First of all, I like to tender “We have to accept the defeat my apology to the people in gracefully. The federation, play- India for not giving the results ers and coaches invest so much what they deserve. But, I am of time for a tournament. But not going to take it very easily,” you could ruin the 4-6 years’ Harendra told reporters at Ka- hard work with one wrong deci- linga Stadium in Bhubaneswar sion.” A July 5, 2018 picture shows doubles matches in progress on the outside courts at the All England Lawn Tennis Club, London. (Reuters) on Thursday. In the semi-fi nals England The visitors benefi ted from a will take on Belgium, while Aus- Reuters pansion across the road on to the course disputed penalty corner that re- tralia will meet the Netherlands London WTA to offer increased rankings has received criticism, but the AELTC sulted in the decisive goal being today. ruled out any development that did not scored in the 50th minute. “It feels amazing to be in protection for returning mothers “protect and celebrate the heritage of the India defender Amit Rohidas the semi-fi nals of the World imbledon’s plans to expand park.” was given a 10-minute suspen- Cup. We’ve enjoyed improv- the size of its grounds took The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) last year. Her world ranking had fallen “For the avoidance of doubt, there sion in the fourth quarter and ing and seeing positive results a step forward on Thursday will off er greater protection to the to 451 when she was not seeded at the never has been and never will be any the Indian coach was critical of as we have progressed through when members of a local rankings of mothers returning to the . plans to build multi-storey car parks and the offi cials. the tournament. Belgium are a Wgolf club voted to sell their land to the shopping villages or any other structures “It was not 11 players against very talented team, with some tour after giving birth, British media She was, however, seeded 25th at this Grand Slam tournament’s organisers. reported on Thursday. year’s Wimbledon despite being ranked that would be completely out of charac- 11. It was 11 against 13,” Harendra great players, but we are confi - The All England Lawn Tennis Club Players returning from maternity leave outside world’s top 32 players. ter for the AELTC and The Champion- said. dent and have a lot of momen- (AELTC) had made a 63.75 million or injury will now be able to use their The BBC reported that the WTA had ships,” the AELTC said. “If they (umpires) don’t want tum behind us, and we want to pounds ($80.68 million) off er, according previous ranking to enter 12 tourna- also clarified its regulations around Media reports say the golf club’s 754 to improve, we will continue to keep that going, and see where it to British media reports, to buy out early ments over a three-year period. clothing to ensure Williams would members will receive 85,000 pounds face these type of results.” leads us,” England’s co-captain the lease of the adjacent Wimbledon However, Serena Williams’ request be able to wear the black catsuit each in compensation. One member, India, who won six Olympic Phil Roper said. Park Golf Club. for returning mothers to be seeded in which attracted the ire of the French Martin Sumpton, was one of the minor- hockey golds in a row between Talking about his team’s The AELTC said in a statement on line with their rankings has not been Tennis Federation president Bernard ity of members to speak out against the 1928 and 1956, secured their lone chances, The Neatherland’s Thursday that members of the 120-year- approved. The 23-times Grand Slam Giudicelli. sale. “120 years of playing golf at Wim- World Cup triumph in 1975 in coach Max Caldas said: “We are old golf club had voted in favour of the champion made a comeback in Febru- The WTA did not immediately respond bledon Park has ended because of greed,” . very happy that we’ve reached off er and the deal, which would see ary after giving birth to her daughter to a Reuters request for confirmation. he told the Guardian. Following their last Olympic the semi-fi nals. Wimbledon almost triple the size of its “People wanted to take the money, gold in 1980, India’s perform- “ We worked hard to get to grounds, would go through on December In 2013 the AELTC rolled out a Wim- in time for the 2019 Championships. and that’s hardly surprising. It is a lot of ances declined over the next this point. Tomorrow brings a 21 pending court approval. bledon Master Plan aimed at making sure The acquisition of the golf course, money.” three decades as the game moved new challenge. After playing the “The decision of the Wimbledon the grasscourt Grand Slam kept pace which will continue to operate 18 holes Jenny Gaskin, chair of Wimbledon from natural grass to synthetic home-team in a fantastic at- Park Golf Club members to vote in fa- with its rivals – the Australian Open, until the end of 2021, will eventually al- Park Golf Club, said: “This has been a surfaces. mosphere, we’re now preparing vour of the acquisition off er is a hugely French Open and US Open – in terms of low the Wimbledon qualifying tourna- long but thorough process and I and the The current squad produced to play the reigning champions signifi cant moment for the AELTC and facilities and crowd experience. ment to be staged on site. rest of the board would like to thank all glimpses of their glorious past and number one in the world The Championships,” AELTC chairman Part of that was to construct a roof Currently it is held a few miles away in members who participated in and voted during their run to the Cham- rankings. We are looking for- Philip Brook said. over Court One which will be completed Roehampton. Wimbledon’s planned ex- either in person or by proxy.” pions Trophy fi nal this year but ward to that.”

BADMINTON Momota powers into World Tour Finals semis

AFP without dropping a game. Sindhu of India plays ’s for some time. Nehwal said she Shanghai Victory in would in the other had started dating Kashyap, 32, be a fi tting end to a spectacu- women’s semi-fi nal. in 2007 after they began going lar year in which he has reached on tours together but delayed orld champion number one in the world for the INDIAN BADMINTON ACE the marriage in order to focus on fi rst time and won his maiden NEHWAL WEDS KASHYAP their careers. Nehwal, who won revved into the last world title. India’s former world number a bronze at the Asian Games in four of badminton’s It is all a far cry from 2016, one yesterday an- Jakarta, is currently 10th in the W$1.5 million World Tour Finals when he was banned for more nounced her marriage to fel- world badminton rankings. with a third comprehensive vic- than a year by the Japanese team low badminton player Parupalli Their wedding is the latest af- tory yesterday. for visiting an illegal casino, Kashyap, calling it the best ter a string of high-profi le Indian The all-action Japanese star missing the Rio Olympics. match of her life. sportspeople tied the knot. powered past ’s Tom- In the women’s draw, there Nehwal, 28, also shared a cou- Grand Slam-winning Indian my Sugiarto 21-14, 21-8 in just was heartbreak for world ple of pictures in which the duo tennis star Sania Mirza mar- 36 minutes in the Chinese city number one Tai Tzu-ying. The are seen dressed in traditional ried Pakistan cricketer Shoaib of Guangzhou. Joining the world Taiwanese retired with a right Indian attires and wearing fl ow- Malik in a dazzling ceremony in number one from Group B is the hamstring strain against Japan’s er garlands. The post, which in- 2010 while wicketkeeper Dinesh late Indian qualifi er Sameer Ver- and said: “I’ve cluded a heart and a smiling face Karthik is married to squash ma, who will play home hope Shi never had this injury before. emoji, was hashtagged #just- sensation Dipika Pallikal. Yuqi in today’s last four. “I felt it during today’s match. married. Nehwal and Kashyap Fast bowler Ishant Sharma Momota, the man to beat, I feel bad that the tournament are planning a grand reception married national basketball will be strong favourite against ended like this for me, but there on December 21, local media re- player Pratima Singh in 2016, ’s Son Wan-ho in was nothing I could do.” ports said. The couple confi rmed and last year Indian cricket cap- their semi-final. The 24-year- Yamaguchi will face Nozo- their relationship in October tain Virat Kohli tied the knot old Momota has won all three mi Okuhara in an all-Japanese although rumours about their with one of the top Bollywood Kento Momota of Japan reacts after his men’s singles third round match against of of his matches this week showdown while in-form P.V. relationship had been swirling stars Anushka Sharma. Indonesia at the 2018 BWF World Tour Finals in Guangzhou yesterday. (AFP)

Saturday, December 15, 2018 GULF TIMES SPORT

FOCUS HORSE RACING Tip Two Win Flag Relay unites bidding for Al nation in show of Rayyan treble at Qatar Derby

By Sports Reporter team up to take part December Doha 22nd’s two big races for purebred pride and solidarity Arabians. Rijm, winner of a Group 1 in he Qatar Racing & Toulouse in October, is their rep- Equestrian Club (QREC) resentative in the US$150,000 will organise the Qa- Qatar Pure Arabian Derby for tar International Derby four-year-olds over a mile and a TFestival at Al Rayyan Park on quarter on turf. December 21-22, 2018, with Tip His ten Qatari-trained oppo- Two Win, who proved his mettle nents in a classy renewal include with a second place in the QIPCO Easter de Faust, winner of fi ve 2000 Guineas at Newmarket last of her six career starts includ- May, the star attraction. ing the Emir’s Silver Sword and Trained in Berkshire by Roger last year’s Qatar Derby for three- Teal, Tip Two Win is defending year-olds; the dual French Group an unbeaten record at Al Rayyan 2 winner, Rajeh; and the fi rst having won on both of his visits three home from last month’s to Doha last winter. He went on Arabian Guineas at Al Rayyan to frank that form in the Guineas, – Abercrombie, Evolution du with superstars like Epsom Der- Croate and Meelad. by winner, Masar; the European Fourcy and Augé rely on Amir Horse Of The Year, Roaring Lion; Al Cham, placed at Group 2 level and the Breeders’ Cup Mile hero, on his penultimate start, in the Expert Eye, behind him. Qatar Pure Arabian Derby for Tip Two Win has not raced three-year-olds, a one-mile since fi nishing unplaced in the turf event worth US$100,000 Group 2 Qatar Lennox Stakes (£74,074). The ten-strong home at Goodwood on July 31. He had team here is led by Daloob and earlier come home in fourth in Tabouk, who fought out a tight the Group 1 St James’s Palace fi nish at this course three weeks Stakes at Royal Ascot. ago.

He is one of fi ve European- Roger Teal, trainer of Tip Two The Flag Relay reaches the Qatar Olympic Committee headquarters before moving to Katara on Thursday. trained thoroughbreds declared Win, said: “Tip Two Win had a to run at the Festival, where he racecourse gallop at Kempton By Sports Reporter ever, which is running,” Farid said. will contest the US$500,000 Qa- Park on Tuesday morning and Doha “This is a great opportunity to intro- tar Derby over a mile and a quar- put a big smile on my face. He duce the community, especially women, ter on turf on December 22. went so well that I’m starting to to sport in general and running in par- He will as usual be ridden by get nervous already ahead of the he second edition of Flag Relay ticular and I’m really happy to see people David Probert when he is part Qatar Derby. wrapped up in style on Thursday from all ages and cultures practice my of a 12-runner line-up along- “David (Probert) rode him and following an extraordinary show sport,” the 20-year-old Team Qatar ath- side the three-time Listed Race he went one circuit, which is a of unity, pride and inspiration in lete added. scorer, Mr Satchmo (trained in mile and a quarter, in the com- Tcelebration of the maroon fl ag and Qa- The fl ag’s journey around Qatar saw by Antoine de Watrigant pany of High Acclaim, who is a tar’s National Day. it travel through several diff erent sports and ridden by Olivier Peslier), very good work horse. They went More than 1,000 people from all walks such as running, walking, swimming, cy- and Tadgh O’Shea’s mount a nice strong pace all the way. of life took part in Flag Relay 2018, in- cling in addition to driving and fl ying. Ming, who was beaten less than “Al Rayyan is a nice level track cluding current and former Team Qatar The day ended with celebrations at As- four lengths in the Grade 1 Sec- and he will be able to bounce off athletes, ambassadors, diplomatic core, pire Park where a gathering of Team Qatar retariat Stakes in America in the fast surface there so if he’s nearly 800 schoolchildren, 10 cancer sur- athletes, stakeholder of Qatar Olympic August and is trained in Ireland going to get a mile and a quar- vivors, as well as hundreds of participants Committee and the public came together by Joseph O’Brien. ter anywhere, it will be in Doha. from the public. to watch the fi nale. Home hopes largely rest with It’s great prize money and they International football superstars Wesley QOC president HE Sheikh Joaan bin the 1-2-3 from last month’s looked after us so well last year Sneijder and Samuel Eto’o, who ply their Hamad al-Thani handed the fl ag to Team Thoroughbred Guineas: Prepare that we have to give it another go. trade in Qatar were also part of the re- Qatar athletes who passed it on to each For Battle, Al Adaid and Alhazm. “His plane leaves in the early lay, bringing a wealth of inspiration to the other before a trio of athletes collectively On December 21, there hours of Saturday morning and young participants and demonstrating the Schoolchildren walk with the flag on the Corniche. hoisted it. will be two British runners he’s a good traveller – nothing global status of Qatar as a sports pioneer. Two-time Olympic medallist Mutaz among a 12-strong fi eld for fazes him.” “Once again, we proved what this starting from Team Qatar’s Winter Camp environment. Barshim; Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdullah the US$100,000 Al Rayyan QREC chief executive offi cer country is made of pride, unity and in Sealine and transporting it towards a Among the participants were several al-Thani, the fi rst Qatari to summit Ever- Stakes – Concierge (trained by Nasser Sherida al-Kaabi said, strong resolve. People from all walks of grand fi nale at Aspire Park. Team Qatar athletes who shared their est; and Team Qatar’s squash player Ab- George Scott and ridden by Ja- “The Qatar Racing & Eques- life united for Qatar in a show of inclu- The stops included Hamad Interna- pride to carry the fl ag with the whole na- dulla al-Tamimi were the three athletes son Watson) and Don Armado trian Club is very pleased with siveness and multiculturalism that makes tional Airport, Museum of Islamic Art, tion. Team Qatar sprinter Mariam Farid making the fi nal act as Flag Relay 2018 (trained by Stuart Williams and the quality of the entries for our country stand out. We couldn’t be Katara, The Pearl, Qatar University, Qatar was additionally excited to share her came to an end after uniting a nation and ridden by Probert). this year’s Qatar International prouder of our community and how eve- Foundation, Sheraton Park, Lusail Ma- sport with the community while being inspiring solidarity and hope. This is a seven-furlong turf Derby Festival. We look forward ryone came together for Qatar,” Qatar rina, Al Thakhira Mangroves and Qatar one of the fl agbearers. In its second edition, Flag Relay was an contest which Tip Two Win won to hosting so many international Olympic Committee (QOC) secretary- Olympic Committee. “This moment has an extra element of occasion for the diff erent segments of so- last December before returning friends and horses at the Festival general Jassim Rashid al-Buenain said. Flag Relay 2018 stops were chosen signifi cance for me because not only did I ciety, including citizens and residents, to to Doha to land the Al Biddah as we once more take the op- Hundreds of participants exchanged wisely to include landmarks that refl ect proudly raise the fl ag of my beloved country unite behind Qatar’s fl ag, express solidar- Mile eight weeks later. portunity to promote Qatar as a the Qatari fl ag as it travelled through diff erent aspects of life in Qatar such as together with Team Qatar athletes but also I ity and pride and show what the country French handler Thomas Four- world hub for horseracing and a iconic landmarks around the country, culture, sport, entertainment, nature and got to do it whilst doing my favourite thing means for its people. cy and jockey Julien Augé will leader in the pure Arabian breed.”

Saeed al-Qadi tops Medium Tour, Tamader al-Marri claims Small Tour

Saeed Nasser al-Qadi (centre) won the Medium Tour, Table A, One round with jump-off , Art.238.2.2, 120/130cm event on Daydreamer EC ahead of second-placed Khalid Mohamed al-Emadi (second from left), riding Fiji, and third-placed Jaber Tamader Said al-Marri (second from left) won the Small Tour Accumulator with Rashid al-Amri (second from right), riding Canavaro De Muze (E.T.), during the Joker, Art. 269.5 | 100/115cm event on Lucky Lady ahead of second-placed Hathab equestrian series event at the Qatar Equestrian Federation arena yesterday. Saeed Nasser al-Qadi rides Daydreamer EC to victory in the Medium Tour, Table Khalid Hamad al-Attiyah (left), riding Viking D, and third-placed Khalifa Abdulla PICTURES: Garsi Lotfi A, One round with jump-off , Art.238.2.2, 120/130cm event. al-Khaldi (right), riding Dusty, yesterday.