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Monday, July 13, 2020 FORMULA 1 Dhul-Qa’da 22, 1441 AH Hamilton wins GULF TIMES Styrian GP in Mercedes one-two SPORT Page 2

HORSE RACING MOTORSPORT Qatar Prix Jean Prat a QMMF set to resume huge success, win for 2020 season Sheail al-Kuwari’s Saqr in October

Nine-race meet at Deauville was on first day of racing open to public since March By Sports Reporter Doha Agencies Deauville, France Sheikh he Qatar Motor and Mohamed’s Motorcycle Federation heail bin Khalifa al-Ku- T(QMMF) is set to resume wari’s Saqr raced to a Alsaher wins its’ 2020 season in Octo- Sdominant victory in what ber, after the events were brought was the fi rst day of racing Prix Nez d’Or to a sudden halt in March due to open to the public since March the coronavirus pandemic. as Qatar Racing and Equestrian Alsaher, a three-year-old Amro al-Hamad, QMMF’s Club’s (QREC)-sponsored Qatar Purebred Arabian colt bred Executive Director, said the mo- Prix Jean Prat meeting at Deau- and owned by His High- torsport body was in touch with ville in France emerged as a huge ness Sheikh Mohamed bin FIA (international automobile success yesterday. Khalifa al-Thani and trained federation) and FIM (interna- Later in the afternoon, it by François Rohaut, made a tional motorcycling federation) was Charlie Appleby-trained perfect debut at La Teste de and will follow the medical pro- Pinatubo that took the coveted Buch in France on Saturday, tocols put in place by both the Qatar Prix Jean Prat, the Group 1 winning the Prix Nez d’Or by world federations and by the Qa- feature of the nine-race meeting. a short head under jockey tar government before zeroing in The QREC’s sponsorship of Valentin Seguy. on the resumption dates. the fantastic meeting is part of In second, was Muqla, a “Once we get the go-ahead QMMF’s Executive Director Amro its strategy to enhance Qatar’s homebred for His High- from the FIA, the FIM and the al-Hamad. presence at the world’s top rac- ness Sheikh Abdullah bin Qatar government, we shall ing events. Khalifa al-Thani. The grey filly resume our events,” al-Hamad is expected to run as part of the Trained by Fabrice Chappet is trained by Didier Guillemin Vincent Cheminaud rides Sheail bin Khalifa al-Kuwari’s Saqr to Qatar Prix des Yearlings victory at said. “We hope to resume the QMMF calendar, while the Bata- in Chantilly, Saqr opened the and was ridden by Alexandre Deauville in France yesterday. (Scoopdyga) season with the 2020 Qatar Na- bit events will also merge into the bumper card, keeping his perfect Gavilan. Al Shaqab Racing’s tional Sprint Championship, calendar of events, al-Hamad scorecard when winning the Qa- homebred Alhareth finished taking this coveted Group 1 prize a series that is very popular in revealed. More details of the two tar Prix des Yearlings, as Deau- a further nose behind in back to Newmarket for Appleby. Qatar. The dates of the 2020 Qa- series will be made available once ville enjoyed the sun and a festive third. The bay colt was rid- Appleby came to Deauville tar National Sprint will be an- negotiations with sponsors are atmosphere, with racing profes- den by Julien Auge. with confi dence, and with rea- nounced in the coming weeks. complete, he added. sionals and public delighted to be son. He was also the winning We wanted to complete the sea- With track events on hold, back at a racecourse. trainer in the Qatar Prix Amand- son before March but when the QMMF has been at forefront in The two-year-old colt came ning trainer in the Qatar Prix de ine, a Listed race for three-year- Covid-19 restrictions were ap- conducting online events. So far here off an impressive two-and- la Place Morny (handicap), with old fi llies, with Althiqa, and the plied by the government of Qatar, four editions of the Qatar Online a-half length win on debut last Kilfrush Memories winning the second Group race of the day, we quickly halted our events,” he Racing Championships (QORC) month. He was ridden again by six-furlong run by a little more the Qatar Prix de Ris-Orangis added. were conducted in April, May Vincent Cheminaud yesterday, than a length. (Group 3) with Royal Crusade. The QMMF Executive Director and June, with regional racers and once inside the fi nal 400m, The two leading two-year- Another horse making a long- hoped the popular Qatar Nation- from Oman and Kuwait also par- he took the lead. Never in danger, old colts of 2019, Earthlight and awaited comeback was Watch al Sprint championship will once ticipating. While QMMF riders he stretched his legs and pulled Pinatubo, were both entered in Me, by Al Shaqab Racing sire again attract a record number of also took on Moto2 riders from clear to win again by the same Deauville, in the Qatar Prix Kiste- Olympic Glory. Last year’s Cor- participants. Leopard Racing in the virtual margin in front of Central Park na (Listed) and the Qatar Prix Jean onation Stakes (Group 1) hero- “The Qatar National Sprint championship, which they came West, also a winner on his debut. Prat (Group 1) respectively. Earth- ine, all eyes were on her in the had a record participation of out as winners. “He’s a good colt. He won light was making his return to the Qatar Prix de la Calonne – Fonds 64 entries in the last round we “We are confi dent that motor- well on his debut, but it wasn’t track following a delayed start to Européen de l’Élevage, a Listed staged. We saw 56 entries in the sport activities will resume with a strong race. Today, he’s shown the season due to injury and did race for four-year-old and older second round and we are aiming fanfare,” al-Hamad said. “As a that he’s improved. He had the not disappoint, storming home fi llies and mares. for a new participation record in motorsport enthusiast, I don’t race won from a long way out to a two-and-a-half length vic- She put any doubts to rest 2020 when we resume action,” want to just end the season be- and wasn’t touched with the tory under Mickael Barzalona for when showing an extraordinary al-Hamad said. cause of the Covid-19 situation. stick. We’ll see him in the big trainer Andre Fabre. turn of foot in the fi nal furlong “We are also looking at hosting So many federations around the two-year-old races this sum- Pinatubo, not to be outdone, to win in an excellent time and last two rounds of the 2020 Qatar world stopped sports action. I mer,” Chappet said after the win. made short work of his oppo- by two-and-a-half lengths for William Buick rides Pinatubo to Qatar Prix Jean Prat victory at National Baja. Three rounds have want to complete the remaining Chappet was also the win- nents in the Qatar Prix Jean Prat, trainer Francis Graff ard. Deauville in France yesterday. (Scoopdyga) already been staged. The aim of part of the season, seal the sea- QMMF is to seal these two na- son with strict medical protocols tional events despite the delays announced for everyone’s safety. and postponements because of I want to get a champion for Qa- the Covid-19 restrictions,” al- tar National Sprint Champion- CRICKET: West Indies win fi rst Test against England Hamad said. ship and the Qatar National Baja The Redbull Drifting series this season,” he added.

West Indies’ John Campbell and Jason Holder celebrate winning the first Test as England’s Rory Burns and teammates look on dejected at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, United Kingdom, yesterday. West Indies beat England by four wickets on the final day of the first international Test since the coronavirus break, taking a 1-0 lead in the three- Test series thanks to a 95-run knock by Jermaine Blackwood. (Reuters) MORE ON PAGE 2 The dates for the 2020 Qatar National Sprint will be announced in the coming weeks, QMMF said. Gulf Times 2 Monday, July 13, 2020 SPORT

CRICKET Blackwood shines as West Indies beat England in fi rst Test Reuters Scorecard Southampton, United Kingdom ENGLAND 1st innings 204 Total (all out, 111.2 overs) 313 S. Brooks lbw b Archer 0 est Indies beat Eng- WEST INDIES 1st innings 318 Fall of wickets: 1-72 (Burns), R. Chase c Buttler b Archer 37 land by four wickets ENGLAND 2nd innings (o/n 284-8) 2-113 (Burns), 3-151 (Denly), 4-249 J. Blackwood c Anderson b Stokes 95 on the fi nal day of (Stokes), 5-253 (Crawley), 6-265 W R. Burns c Campbell b Chase 42 S. Dowrich c Buttler b Stokes 20 the fi rst interna- (Buttler), 7-278 (Bess), 8-279 tional Test since the coronavirus D. Sibley c Dowrich b Gabriel 50 (Pope), 9-303 (Wood), 10-313 J. Holder not out 14 break yesterday, taking a 1-0 lead J. Denly c Holder b Chase 29 (Archer) Extras (lb7, nb1, w5) 13 Bowling: at the Ageas Bowl in a three-Test Z. Crawley c and b Joseph 76 Roach 22-8-50-0; Total (6 wkts, 64.2 overs) 200 series thanks to a 95-run knock Gabriel 21.2-4-75-5 (3nb); B. Stokes c Hope b Holder 46 Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Brathwaite), by Jermaine Blackwood. Holder 22-8-49-1; Chase 25-6-71-2; 2-7 (Brooks), 3-27 (Hope), 4-100 England made early inroads O. Pope b Gabriel 12 Joseph 18-2-45-2; Brathwaite (Chase), 5-168 (Dowrich), 6-189 into the West Indies batting line- J. Buttler b Joseph 93-0-9-0; up on day fi ve as the visitors tar- (Blackwood) D. Bess b Gabriel 3 Bowling: geted 200 to win, reducing them WEST INDIES 2nd innings Anderson 15-3-42-0; to 27-3 before Blackwood began J. Archer c Dowrich b Gabriel 23 Archer 17-3-45-3 (5w); Wood K. Brathwaite b Archer 4 to set the foundations for a big M. Wood c Dowrich b Gabriel 2 12-0-36-1; Bess 10-2-31-0; Stokes win for the Caribbean side, albeit J. Campbell not out 8 10.2-1-39-2 (1nb); J. Anderson not out 4 behind closed doors. S. Hope b Wood 9 RESULT: WI won by four wickets When opener John Campbell Extras (b4, lb10, nb3) 17 retired hurt following a toe- crushing yorker from Jofra Arch- maican narrowly missed out on out for 313 in their second innings innings,” England captain Stokes er, Blackwood came in before his second Test century when he after resuming on 284-8, with said, adding that he stood by his lunch and began to anchor the tried to lift a Ben Stokes delivery the overnight pair of Archer and decision to bat fi rst. innings, sharing a 73-run stand over the infi eld, only to gift James Mark Wood failing to off er much “We got ourselves into great with Roston Chase (37). Anderson a catch. resistance. positions at times with the bat to “It was a nerve-wracking start West Indies’ Jermaine Blackwood (left) plays a shot as England’s Jos Buttler (centre) keeps wicket on the Campbell then returned to Shannon Gabriel fi nished with kick on and get 350 or 400, and after losing quick three wickets and fifth day of the first Test at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, United Kingdom, yesterday. (AFP) the crease with West Indies six fi gures of 5-75 — his sixth fi ve- we weren’t ruthless enough. We Campbell to injury,” Windies cap- wickets down to join Holder, who wicket haul in Tests — while didn’t manage to grasp the game tain Jason Holder told BBC. “But “I missed the Barmy Army but the series up quite nicely.” pace and bounce but England played a patient knock of 14 off Chase and Alzarri Joseph picked as we would have liked.” Roston and Jermaine put on a good it was a level playing fi eld without The Barbados-born Archer, were unable to dismiss the dan- 36 balls, to guide the West Indies up two wickets apiece. The second and third Tests will partnership and settled the nerves. the crowds. It’s been a good start who fi nished with 3-45, troubled ger man Blackwood. home in the fi nal session. “Ideally we would have liked be held in Manchester, also with- From there we could build on. back to international cricket, it sets the batsmen throughout with his In the end the 28-year-old Ja- Earlier, England were bowled to have got more runs in the fi rst out fans in attendance.

FORMULA 1 Denly not good enough: Vaughan

England should look beyond Joe of his second child. Denly but retain Zak Crawley “It’s not even a conversation,” when regular skipper Joe Root Vaughan, who captained Eng- returns for the second test land in 51 tests, told BBC Sport. against the West Indies, former “You could argue that Denly was captain Michael Vaughan has very lucky to have played 15 Test Hamilton wins said. Denly managed 18 and 29 matches. There are a lot of play- in the first test against the West ers who have played only eight Indies and has now gone without tests and got hundreds. a fifty in his last eight innings. “He has missed his chance and His Kent teammate Crawley they have to stick with Crawley. topscored for England with 76 in I’m sorry for Denly — he’s just the second innings and Vaughan not good enough. England have Styrian GP in said Denly should make room a decision to make on Denly. for Root, who missed the South- Crawley surely has to stay in the ampton test to attend the birth side,” added Vaughan.

Mercedes one-two SPOTLIGHT Red Bull duo Verstappen and Albon, and McLaren’s Norris round out the top five ‘Crying on the Reuters London, United Kingdom couch’ — Aussie ix-times world cham- pion Lewis Hamilton Sdominated the Styrian skipper Paine’s Grand Prix in a Mercedes one-two yesterday to celebrate his 85th Formula One win and move a step closer to Michael mental demons Schumacher’s record of 91 vic- tories. AFP Finnish teammate Valtteri Sydney, Australia Bottas, winner of last weekend’s season-opener behind closed doors at the same Austrian cir- ustralian captain Tim cuit, fi nished a distant runner- Paine revealed yes- up with his championship lead Aterday he used to hate cut to six points. playing cricket and was Red Bull’s Max Verstappen left “crying on the couch” after completed the podium on a sun- losing confi dence during an inju- ny afternoon at his team’s home ry-plagued period of his career. Red Bull Ring after starting on The 35-year-old has been the front row and being passed widely praised after taking over by Bottas in the closing stages. as Test skipper in 2018 when Struggling Ferrari provided a Steve Smith was suspended over major talking point with Charles a brazen attempt under his watch would be sitting at home, she’d Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel to alter the ball with sandpaper in be at work, and I would liter- colliding on the opening lap and Cape Town. ally be sitting on the couch, not both retiring from the race. But it has not been easy for bawling my eyes out but I’d be “What a weird year it is, but Paine, who suff ered a career- crying,” he added. it’s great to be back up here, threatening fi nger injury in 2010 “It was weird and really pain- to be driving with this kind of soon after being identifi ed as ful, it was hard to explain, but performance,” said Hamilton, Australia’s fi rst-choice wicket- yeah I just thought I was letting who started from pole position keeper and making his interna- so many people down.” after a sensational lap in a rain- tional debut. Mental health has been thrust hit qualifying and remained in Mercedes’ British driver Lewis Hamilton raises a fist on the podium after winning the Styrian Grand Prix in Spielberg, Austria, yesterday. (AFP) It required seven surgeries into the spotlight of Austral- complete control. and two missed seasons, lead- ian cricket in recent times with “I’m so grateful to be back Mexican Sergio Perez was ing to a downward spiral with Glenn Maxwell, Nic Maddinson in fi rst place. It feels like a long sixth for Racing Point, ahead years of nerves, sleepless nights and young prospect Will Pu- time coming since the last race of Canadian teammate Lance Leclerc apologises to Ferrari for collision with Vettel and frustration as he struggled covski all taking time out to deal last year, and to come back in af- Stroll, with Australian Daniel Reuters I have done a very bad job today, place grid drop for impeding to rediscover his confi dence and with personal struggles. ter a diffi cult weekend last week Ricciardo eighth for Renault. Spielberg, Austria I let the team down. I can only be AlphaTauri’s Daniil Kvyat in form. Paine said he turned the cor- is a great, great step forwards.” Spaniard Carlos Sainz com- sorry even though I know it’s not qualifying. Vettel had lined up “I got to the stage where I was ner after confi ding in a sports The Briton, who wore a Black pleted McLaren’s double points enough. I hope I will learn from 10th on the grid. scared of getting hit, and I just psychologist at Cricket Tasma- Lives Matter T-shirt on the fi nish in ninth and Russian Da- harles Leclerc apolo- this and will come back stronger “I was fighting two other cars had no idea what I was going to nia. starting grid, again took a knee niil Kvyat picked up the fi nal Cgised to Ferrari and his for the next races. into turn three and then I was do,” he told a new podcast series “It was the fi rst time I actu- with other drivers before the point for AlphaTauri. teammate Sebastian “But it’s a tough time for the very surprised because I had aimed at promoting well-being ally told anyone what was going start as part of an anti-racism Vettel yesterday after causing team. We don’t need that. The the inside and wasn’t expecting and good mental health. on, but I remember walking out campaign. STYRIAN GP RESULTS (top 10) a first-lap collision that put team doesn’t need that and I Charles to try something,” said “Instead of watching the ball of that room and instantly feel- Yesterday’s race was the fi rst 1. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) both drivers out of the Styrian put all the eff orts of the team in Vettel, who is leaving at the end I was thinking about getting hit ing better, that I had let someone time a circuit has hosted two 1:22:50.683 Formula One Grand Prix. the bin. So I’m very sorry.” of the season. or what might happen. When in and that was the fi rst step to back-to-back rounds in the 2. Valtteri Bottas (Mercedes) Both cars suff ered damage and Ferrari, Formula One’s oldest, “I don’t think there was any you’re doing that the game be- dealing with, admitting I needed same championship year, with +13.719sec returned to the pits, with four- most successful and glamorous space,” added the German. comes very diffi cult. help,” he said. the original calendar ripped up 3. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) times world champion Vettel team, are going through tough “Obviously, a big pity, some- “I couldn’t score runs for Paine fi nally won his place and rewritten due to the Cov- +33.698 wheeled into the garage while times with a car that lacks aero- thing that we should avoid but an extended period of time. I back in the Test team during the id-19 pandemic. 4. Alexander Albon (Red Bull) Leclerc rejoined in last place after dynamic and engine perform- not much that I could have couldn’t eat, I couldn’t sleep. I 2017-18 Ashes series, but the in- Bottas, who started fourth +44.400 having a new front wing fitted. ance compared to last year. done diff erently. I was just tak- was so nervous before games. I ner turmoil returned. and now has 43 points to Ham- 5. Lando Norris (McLaren) The Monegasque, whose car Team boss Mattia Binotto said ing it easy and conservative be- was horrible to live with.” “It went from an amazing feel- ilton’s 37, said his afternoon had +1:01.470 was tipped onto Vettel’s after there was not much for him to cause it was already very busy ing... and then I thought that’s been about damage limitation. 6. Sergio Pérez (Racing Point) he tried a lunge down the say to his drivers. “It’s a pain to at the hairpin, it’s very tight.” ‘WEIRD AND PAINFUL’ not good,” he said. “I still got good points, still +1:02.387 inside of the German and hit a conclude a race in such a way,” Ferrari had hoped to use For- He said while he never lost his “I’m going to have to bat in leading (overall) so it’s not too 7. Lance Stroll (Racing Point) kerb in the turn three incident, he said. “I think it’s the worst mula One’s first back-to-back love of watching cricket “when it front of people and there are bad. Yesterday wasn’t ideal,” he +1:02.453 retired on lap five. The 22-year- conclusion of a very bad week- races at the same circuit to came to my part in the game I just going to be millions of people said. 8. Daniel Ricciardo (Renault) old recognised he had been end for us...I think it’s not the compare data but that opportu- hated it”. watching. And for three or four Red Bull’s Alex Albon fi nished +1:02.591 over-optimistic in his move. time to look for responsibility or nity never came. “I would rather be anywhere days after I thought I don’t want fourth with Lando Norris fi fth, a 9. Carlos Sainz (McLaren) 1 lap “I apologised. Obviously, ex- accuse, it’s time to work united.” “For the updates we would else in the world because I was to do this. result that moved the 20-year- 10. Daniil Kvyat (AlphaTauri) 1 lap cuses are not enough in times Leclerc, a lucky second in last really like to get the race on the convinced I was going to fail. I “Again, spoke to some people old McLaren driver up to third in like this,” the youngster told weekend’s season-opener at line and some laps to see where don’t think anyone knew that I and got that stuff off my chest the standings, after overtaking Fastest lap: Carlos Sainz Sky television. the same Red Bull Ring circuit, the car is but unfortunately we was struggling at all, not my best and I thought bugger it, I’ll just both Racing Point drivers on the (McLaren) 1:05.619 on the 68th “I am just disappointed in myself. started only 14th after a three- will not get that,” Vettel said. mates, not even my partner. make the most of it... I’m going fi nal lap. lap (avg speed: 236.894kmh) “I remember times when I to enjoy it.” Gulf Times Monday, July 13, 2020 3 SPORT

NBA SPOTLIGHT Popovich feels safe in Lakers’ LeBron opts out bubble environment of wearing social justice message on jersey ‘I AM HERE FOR ONE GOAL AND ONE GOAL ONLY AND THAT IS TO WIN A CHAMPIONSHIP’

AFP Los Angeles

BA superstar LeBron James said on Satur- Nday he would opt out of wearing a social justice message on the back of his jer- sey because it doesn’t “resonate with his mission.” James, who has often spoken out against racism and police brutality in America, is passing on the NBA’s plan to help bring attention to racial inequality by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. (TNS) having players wear messages like “I Can’t Breathe” instead of Reuters point of view, I would have to their family names. Los Angeles say I am safer here, if this bub- “I didn’t go with a name on ble works.” the back of my jersey,” the Los The Spurs (27-36) will be Angeles Lakers forward James an Antonio Spurs long shots to make the playoff s said on Saturday. “It was no coach Gregg Popo- once the restart begins. disrespect to the list that was Svich pondered sitting San Antonio, which opens handed down to all the players.” out the NBA restart play against the Sacramento “I commend anyone that de- before eventually deciding Kings on July 31, sits four cides to put something on the the NBA’s “bubble” might be games behind the eighth- back of their jersey. It is just the best place to be during the place Memphis Grizzlies. something that didn’t seriously coronavirus pandemic. Making matters worse is that resonate with my mission, with The 71-year-old sees the seven-time All-Star power my goal.” number of new cases rocket- forward LaMarcus Aldridge is James says he wishes he had ing upward in the state of Tex- done for the season after sur- had some input into the jersey as and feels the protected at- gery on his right shoulder in change. mosphere near Orlando, Fla., late April. “I would have loved to have is more comforting. More than basketball is on a say on what would have went “I’m safer here than I would Popovich’s mind. He said he on the back of the jersey. I had be in Texas for sure as you see has spent a lot of time read- a couple of things in mind, but what’s going on there,” Popo- ing and dissecting where the I wasn’t part of that process vich said on Saturday during a United States as a country in which is OK.” Zoom teleconference call. the four months since play was “I don’t need to have some- The Lone Star State report- halted due to the pandemic. thing on the back of the jersey ed a single-day record 10,351 The death of George Floyd for people to understand my cases on Saturday as well as at the hands of a while police mission and what I’m about and 99 deaths. And individuals 65 offi cer in Minneapolis on May what I am here to do.” and older are at greater risk to 25 has ramped up attention to The vast majority of NBA contracting the virus, accord- social justice issues and rac- players have decided to pick a LeBron James is one of just about 17 players out of 285 so far who have opted to continue using their family names on the back of their uniforms. (AFP) ing to the Centers for Disease ism throughout the country social justice message when play Control. and Popovich has been paying resumes in Orlando, Florida. Up; Ally; Anti-Racist; I Am So Popovich isn’t second- close attention. James is one of just about 17 A Man; Speak Up; How Many NBA doctors worried about lingering eff ects of Covid-19 guessing a decision that puts “Since the decision was players out of 285 so far who More; Group Economics; Edu- him in a controlled environ- made to do this, to start the have opted to continue using cation Reform; and Mentor. eague physicians and are all the unknowns.” The NBA is cardiac damage can increase if ment with constant testing. season the season again under their family names on the back James said even though he off icials are concerned preparing to restart the season, you continue to exercise in the “Being 71 years old, I these circumstances with all of their uniforms. isn’t taking part in the jersey Labout the lingering with 22 teams reporting this week face of an active infection.” thought, ‘Is this where I want the precautions, what a great The list of suggested mes- messages, he is still working be- health eff ects for NBA to the ESPN Wide World of Sports The eff ects of Covid-19 on to spend a lot of my time, opportunity to make race an sages, agreed on by the play- hind the scenes to improve the players who contract the Complex near Orlando for training cardiac health, including doing this, under these cir- upfront, most important ac- ers union and NBA owners and lives of others, especially people coronavirus, ESPN reported on camp. Games are scheduled to myocarditis (inflammation of cumstances?’” Popovich told tivity that happens on a social then made available to play- in the Black community. Saturday. resume on July 30. Any player the heart muscle), are “not yet reporters of his decision- level while we’re here,” Popov- ers, includes “I Can’t Breathe,” “Being able to use my plat- “There are unknown eff ects it who tests positive faces a two- fully understood,” the league making process. “’Do I really ich said. “People will enjoy the which is what George Floyd said form, use the NBA’s platform, has on lung capacity, unknown week quarantine period before wrote in a memo sent to teams want to do this? Is it safe?’ But games and the athleticism and more than 20 times before he to continue to talk about what’s eff ects it has on cardiac health,” he can be cleared to return to the on June 15, per ESPN. Accord- I talked to a lot of people. I the losses and the wins and the died with a white police offi cer going on. Because I will not one general manager of a team court. A physician will determine ing to the American College of talked to (NBA commissioner) excitement, but the message kneeling on his neck. stop until I see real change for entering the NBA bubble told when the isolation period is over, a Cardiology’s Sports and Exercise Adam (Silver). that the league wants to send Other messages include: us in Black America, for African ESPN on the condition of anonym- process that will include a cardiac Cardiology Council, “Acute “You fi nd out pretty quickly is one of equity. Black Lives Matter; Say Their Americans, for people of colour. ity. “What if a 24-year-old catches screening. cardiac injury... occur(s) in up what he and his staff of many “And no injustice for anyone Names; Vote; Justice; Peace; And I also believe I can do both, it in Orlando and, in 14 days, he Matthew Martinez, a consulting to 22% of hospitalised patients have gone through to put this and making sure people have Equality; Freedom; Enough; though.” quarantines and is fine, but then cardiologist for the NBA Players with Covid-19, which is signifi- thing together. It’s not just be- to think about it every day. Power to the People; Justice James said he always expected he has these everlasting heart Association, stressed to ESPN cantly higher compared with the ing a loyal soldier in the NBA. Whether it’s a coach or player Now; Say Her Name; Sí Se Puede to play in the restart to the sea- problems? (Or he) gets winded so that players will need time to approximately 1% prevalence in But I don’t know where else speaking up, it’s the momen- (Yes We Can); Liberation; See son: “I am here for one goal and easily, or he becomes a little bit rest after a positive test because non-Covid-19 acute viral infec- you would be as safe as we are tum that we have to keep, and Us; Hear Us; Respect Us; Love one goal only and that is to win a too susceptible to fatigue?... These doctors believe “the amount of tions.” – Reuters right now. From an intellectual the league can be a great com- Us; Listen; Listen to Us; Stand championship.” point of a view and a medical municator for that.”

MLB Astros halt training again over virus worries AFP Within hours of the Astros’ an- Los Angeles nouncement, the Royals announced that catcher Cam Gallagher had tested positive after participating in Friday oronavirus concerns continue night’s instra-squad training game at to cast a shadow over Major Kauff man Stadium. CLeague Baseball’s build-up to Kansas City said the 27-year-old was a pandemic shortened sea- asymptomatic. son, with the Houston Astros cancel- “To say this caught me by surprise ling practice Saturday as Kansas City would be an understatement,” Gal- reported a player tested positive for lagher said in a statement released by Covid-19. the team, adding that he “felt great” The Astros opted to cancel a day’s during the game and had no clue he’d worth of training after a staff member been infected until his test result came reported potential exposure to some- back on Saturday morning. one who had tested positive for the vi- “I am asymptomatic and will con- rus. tinue to work as hard as I can to stay “As part of MLB’s testing and re- ready while I quarantine,” Gallagher porting plan, we were alerted that a said. staff member was potentially exposed “The fi rst couple of weeks of work- to a Covid-positive individual outside outs have just made me that much the organization,” Astros general man- more excited about our ballclub and I ager James Click said in a statement. can’t wait to rejoin them and compete “Out of an abundance of caution, we as soon as I’m allowed.” have cancelled today’s workout. MLB and its players union on Friday “We are working closely with MLB said that 83 people — 71 players and 12 and our team physicians to follow the team staff — had tested positive since established testing and cleaning pro- coronavirus testing began last month. tocols so that we can safely bring our Teams have been conducting work- players and staff back to the eldfi as outs for the past week in preparation soon as possible.” for the delayed and shortened 2020 It marked the second time this week season, which is due to start on July Collin McHugh of the Houston Astros. (TNS) that the Astros have cancelled training 23 — four months after the originally because of coronavirus concerns. scheduled Opening Day in March. Gulf Times 4 Monday, July 13, 2020 SPORT

NFL Jones, Chiefs begin contract talks he Kansas City Chiefs and Pro Bowl Tdefensive tackle Reports: Redskins name change ‘imminent’ Chris Jones report- edly have begun contract Reuters on the site’s NFL index. discussions. Los Angeles Last week, FedEx asked the ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler said team to change the name. Fe- Saturday that the two sides dEx signed a 27-year, $205mn have “begun talking” ahead ittle more than a week deal in 1999 for the naming of Wednesday’s contract after the Washington rights to FedEx Field in Lando- deadline. If Jones and the LRedskins announced ver, Md., where the club plays Chiefs can’t come to terms, they would conduct a its home games. he could play in 2020 under “thorough review” of the team’s On Wednesday, Amazon the franchise tag, which nickname, reports surfaced Sat- pulled Redskins merchandise would pay him $16.1mn. second straight season, then urday that a name change is in- from its site while the team “I’m told the Chiefs and Jones signed with the New York deed “imminent.” considers the name change. have begun talking, which Jets in free agency. Yahoo’s Charles Robinson Two days earlier, The Wash- is a big victory because The Chiefs now can turn reported the news fi rst Satur- ington Post reported that three it’s been quiet for months their attention to Jones after day morning and Pro Football minority owners of the team on that front,” Fowler said signing quarterback Patrick Talk’s Mike Florio confi rmed hired an investment banking on ESPN’s SportsCenter. Mahomes to a landmark the news. Speaking on the fi rm to fi nd buyers for their “They’ve really had no com- 10-year, $503mn contract “Saturday Sports Brunch” ra- shares of the club. munication. They’ve at least extension on Monday. dio show in Dallas on Satur- The franchise began us- started negotiating.” “The Chiefs got the Patrick day, Robinson said the name ing the Redskins nickname Jones, 26, has yet to sign the Mahomes deal done,” Fowler change will come “in the next in 1933, when it was based in franchise tag and indicated said. “They’d like to move on 24-48 hours,” adding “the NFL Boston and previously called earlier this month he could to Jones, who is considered is starting to take steps to tell the Braves. Team owner George sit out the season. a top-three defensive tackle, everybody who has Washing- Preston Marshall moved the On July 1, NFL Network but that’s going to cost them ton’s nickname on its platform club to Washington in 1937. reported it’s unlikely Jones well over $20mn. It’s just un- to start scrubbing it, start tak- A statue of Marshall was will receive the $20 million- clear how far they’re willing ing it off , which means some- removed from the Redskins’ per-year deal he seeks this to go at this point, but they thing’s coming.” former Washington venue, off season. He replied to a want to keep one of their Robinson did not know the RFK Stadium, on June 19 in the video the network posted, best players.” new team name. wake of protests seeking racial hinting that holding out into Kansas City selected Jones, Citing a source with knowl- equality following the death the regular season might be a Mississippi State product, edge of the situation, Florio re- of George Floyd. Under Mar- an option. with the No. 37 overall pick ported that team owner Daniel The Washington Redskins is scheduled to open the season at home against the Philadelphia Eagles on shall’s leadership, the Redskins “Or I won’t play. @LeVeonBell in the 2016 NFL Draft. In four Snyder is now committed to September 13. were the last NFL team to inte- told me about this,” Jones seasons, he’s played in 61 changing the name before the grate, adding their fi rst Black wrote. Bell sat out the 2018 games (41 starts), recording start of the season. The report get the club to change the nick- numerous investment fi rms tising ties with the team. players in 1962. season with the Pittsburgh 33 sacks and 136 tackles. also cited the mounting pres- name and logo — with many and corporate shareholders That led Nike to pull all Red- Washington is scheduled Steelers because he was Almost half of those sacks sure Snyder has faced in recent Native American groups call- with companies such as Nike, skins merchandise off its web- to open the season at home resistant to the team apply- — 15.5 — came in the 2018 weeks to change the name. ing the name racist — pressure PepsiCo and FedEx imploring site, making Washington the against the Philadelphia Eagles ing the franchise tag for a season. Reuters Though numerous eff orts to has ramped up in July, with those companies to cut adver- only NFL franchise not listed on September 13.

FOCUS COMMENT Bettman says league committed to playing Oilers’ Green among full 2020-2021 season latest four players to

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. (TNS)

opt out of NHL return Reuters plete the (2019-2020) season Los Angeles and if we start in November or December, so be it. We be- ‘THIS WAS ONE OF THE HARDEST DECISIONS I’VE EVER HAD TO MAKE’ lieve we have the fl exibility to HL Commissioner do that.” Gary Bettman said The current season will play Non Saturday the out in Toronto and Edmonton, league remained with the two hub cities an- committed to playing a full nounced Friday after weeks of 2020-2021 season and could speculation, though Bettman even push the start until No- told reporters some details vember or December to ac- needed to be fi nalised with the commodate the end of its cur- Canadian government. rent season, which resumes Las Vegas, Nevada, previ- Aug. 1. ously rumoured to be among Play was put on hold four the favourites to host, was months ago due to the novel ruled out during the planning coronavirus outbreak. The process in part due to a spike games are slated to resume in in new cases of Covid-19 in a Stanley Cup tournament in the area, NHL Deputy Com- Canada without fans in at- missioner Bill Daly said. tendance, after players ratifi ed “Obviously we understand a return-to-play plan and ex- some of the advantages of Ve- tension of a labour deal. gas and some of the abilities to The schedule could see the create the bubble tighter than 2020 Stanley Cup tournament it might be in other locations, fi nish as late as Oct. 4, around but the fact that the Covid rate the time a regular NHL season was spiking outside of what typically begins. would be the bubble was a “Looking at the schedule, concern for us,” Daly said. making some adjustments, we Under the return-to-play believe we can play a full sea- plan, participants will be test- son and if we run a little later ed for Covid-19 prior to arriv- than usual, that may be one of ing on site, and players will be the consequences,” Bettman expected to maintain proper told reporters. “We think it’s social distancing and health important, if we can, to com- precautions.

Clubs ordered not to release Covid-19 info he NHL announced results; and, for the purposes on Saturday that of making the system work, Tteams will not be any injury information, go- The 34-year-old Mike Green has played in just two games for Edmonton Oilers since being acquired from the Detroit Red Wings in late February. allowed to release ing forward.” The 24-team information on coronavirus postseason tournament Reuters statement released through the stay at home,” as opposed to re- from the Detroit Red Wings in late NHL seasons with St. Louis, To- tests or injuries in the upcom- begins on Aug. 1 with games Los Angeles Oilers. Canucks general manager joining the Stars for the remainder February. Overall, he has 11 points ronto, San Jose and Dallas, Polak ing restarted season. The being played in Edmonton and Jim Benning announced Saturday of this season. (three goals, eight assists) in 50 has 26 goals, 114 assists and 643 league cited medical privacy Toronto. that Baertschi informed the club Kampfer said he was opting out games this season. penalty minutes in 806 career reasons as the biggest com- Daly said the NHL will release dmonton Oilers defense- of his decision the previous day. due to his family’s health. In 15 NHL seasons, Green has games. ponent for the ruling. The positive test result numbers man Mike Green, Vancou- “Sven informed us late yester- “This was one of the hardest 150 goals and 351 assists (501 Kampfer, 31, had two assists in NHL Players Association also during the time leading up to Ever Canucks left wing Sven day that he has chosen to opt out decisions I’ve ever had to make,” points) in 880 career games. 10 games for Boston this season had a hand in the decision. the restart. “The media and Baertschi, Dallas Stars of the NHL Return to Play Pro- Kampfer said in a statement he Baertschi has two assists while during his second stint with the “We’ve talked to the NHLPA the public will know what defenseman Roman Polak and gram. It was a diffi cult decision but released on his Twitter account. appearing in six games with the franchise. Overall, he has 13 goals about it and continue to feel kind of situation we’re in, Boston Bruins defenseman Steven ultimately one we respect and un- “My wife and son have a congeni- Canucks in 2019-20. The 27-year- and 21 assists (34 points) in 211 ca- that medical privacy is im- but we don’t want to be in a Kampfer will not be rejoining their derstand,” Benning said in a state- tal heart defect which can cause old Switzerland native recorded reer games with the Bruins (2010- portant in this process,” NHL situation where we’re doing it teams for the NHL’s Return to Play ment posted by the club to Twitter. complications with Covid-19. 46 points (13 goals, 33 assists) in 43 12, 2018-20), Minnesota Wild deputy commissioner Bill Daly on a club-by-club or player-by- initiative. “We have added Kole Lind to We have taken this very seriously. games this season with the Utica (2012), Florida Panthers (2014-17) said during a conference call player basis,” Daly said. “The The NHL season is slated to re- our Return to Play roster and will Family will always be my priority.” Comets of the American Hockey and New York Rangers (2016-18) about the decision. “Having interests of medical privacy start with a 24-team postseason continue to focus on preparation The list of players opting out of League. After suspending the season said that, we have an obliga- are important, and we’re go- tournament on August 1. for camp,” the statement contin- the NHL’s restart is now at fi ve, af- Baertschi has collected 138 because of the Covid-19 pandemic tion as a league to have some ing to protect them.” The NHL Green, a two-time All-Star, said ued. ter the Calgary Flames announced points (66 goals, 72 assists) in March 12, the NHL will have 24 transparency with respect to restart became a reality on Saturday that his decision was Polak, meanwhile, was not in- Friday night that defenseman 291 career NHL games with the teams compete in a modifi ed play- the Covid virus. “At least for Friday when the league and made due to family concerns. cluded on the Stars’ training camp Travis Hamonic is opting out, Flames and Canucks. He was the off format, with 16 teams compet- now, we’re going to maintain players union each ratified “Due to the uncertainties sur- roster a month after signing a primarily out of concern for his 13th overall pick of the 2011 NHL ing in a best-of-fi ve play-in round a policy where the league is the return-to-play plan and rounding Covid-19 and after three-year deal with HC Vitkovice daughter who has a respiratory ill- Draft by Calgary. that starts August 1. The other announcing (testing) numbers a four-year extension of the much consideration, I’ve decided Ridera in the Czech Republic that ness. Polak, 34, had no goals and four eight teams (the top four in each and clubs are prohibited collective bargaining agree- for deeply personal family health is set to begin next season. At the The 34-year-old Green has assists with 24 penalty minutes in conference) will play in a three- from giving any information ment. The CBA extension runs reasons not to participate in the time he signed the contract, Polak played in just two games for Ed- 41 games with Dallas this season, game round-robin to determine with respect to Covid test through September of 2026. return to play,” Green said in a said “I am already determined to monton since being acquired his second with the Stars. In 14 seeding in the following round. Gulf Times Monday, July 13, 2020 5 SPORT

FOCUS COMMENT Indian golfers bid farewell to ambassador Former All Blacks coach Hansen says utgoing Indian am- bassador P Kumaran Owas given a farewell New Zealand owes party by golfers from the Indian community recently. Kumaran who is an avid golfer Australia nothing has been active in the golfi ng community and has won several Reuters ourselves, we bend and buckle tournaments during his three Wellington a bit. “I think NZ Rugby are years term in Doha. in the mood for having strong Sibi George, Indian ambas- discussions because they only sador to Switzerland & Vatican ormer All Blacks coach get one shot at it.” was a surprise guest at the zoom Steve Hansen has Much of the fallout has cen- party organised by Qatar Golf Furged his former em- tred on the composition of Lovers. ployers to be strong Super Rugby from 2021, with George, also an active golfer is in their negotiations over the both countries reportedly keen a founder member of QGL when future of Super Rugby and on exploring a trans-Tasman it was founded in 2001. George that New Zealand Rugby owed competition rather than re- will be taking charge as Indian trans-Tasman neighbours verting to a tournament that ambassador to Kuwait shortly. Australia no favours. involves teams from South Af- Kumaran’s next posting is Sin- Tensions between the or- rica and Argentina. gapore. Golfers organised a golf ganisations ratcheted up McLennan told Australian tournament nicknamed “Singa- this week, with Rugby Aus- media this week that a leaked pore Swing” in his honour. The tralia (RA) chairman Hamish report suggested NZR’s pre- competition between Ambas- McLennan saying he felt the ferred option was to have just sador’s team & QGL Captain PK relationship had deteriorated two or three Australian sides Mathew’s team had a nail biting to one of a “master-servant”. in a trans-Tasman competi- fi nish where the Ambassador Hansen, who spent almost tion. had to concede defeat at the fi nal 16 years with the All Blacks, Hansen said what was most hole by a narrow margin. however, said he felt that NZR important was not to dilute “Ambassador has beaten me should be doing what was best New Zealand’s player pool in every competition in the last for their rugby players. with more than fi ve teams and three years, this is a sweet re- “Without being controver- to minimise travel for the wel- venge,” said Mathew. sial, we have been looking after fare of the players. the Aussies for years,” Hansen “You have got to start with told Stuff Media yesterday. what do you want out of it? ULTIMATE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP “And every time we have re- Rather than, ‘OK, we are go- quired something from them, ing to have this competition,’” particularly at a high level, Hansen said. sometimes they have gone “It has to be really competi- missing. tive and produce world-class “Do we owe them some- players. If you allow it to be- thing? No. But because we are come watered-down, there is the nation we are, and we care too big a gap between Super Usman outclasses about the game more than just Rugby and test rugby.” Masvidal to retain welterweight title ‘I have more tools in the tool box and when I need to I can pull them out and use them’

AFP Yas Island, United Arab Emirates

amaru Usman put on a ‘Fight Island’ master- Kclass yesterday to retain his Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) welter- weight world title by grinding RUGBY down a brave Jorge Masvidal in Abu Dhabi. “I’m at the top of the moun- tain and everyone’s looking at Hurricanes hold me,” declared the 33-year-old Usman after scoring a unani- mous points decision 50-45, off Highlanders 50-45 and 49-46 on the three judges’ cards. The Nigerian-American Us- for ‘massive’ win man (17-1) looked the fresher with Masvidal (35-14) having AFP Ardie Savea, Asafo Aumua, taken the UFC 251 headline bout Wellington Ngani Laumape and Vince Aso at just six days’ notice when Bra- as battering rams to tie up the zil’s Gilbert Burns (19-3) tested Highlanders defence. positive for Covid-19 and was he Wellington Hur- Perenara admitted there unable to travel. ricanes held off a were still problem areas that The Las Vegas-based UFC Thard-fi nishing Otago need to be addressed, not least pulled off a power-packed Highlanders for a 17- turning the ball over sloppily. schedule with three world title 11 Super Rugby Aotearoa vic- “What we will look at is we fi ghts to kick off a series of mixed tory in Wellington on Sunday are giving away a lot of penal- martial arts cards. hailed as “massive” by captain ties that are getting teams up It helped fulfi l supremo Dana Kamaru Usman of Nigeria celebrates after his victory over Jorge Masvidal in their UFC welterweight championship fight during the UFC 251 TJ Perenara. to our end of the fi eld which is White’s vision of a coronavirus- event in Abu Dhabi. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports The Hurricanes were cruis- hurting us,” he said. free ‘Fight Island’, something he ing at 17-0 ahead, command- Both sides had tries fi rst fl oated when the pandemic and he monstered Cuban-Amer- “crossed lines” – and they were kanovski (22-1) edged the tight- Before those title fi ghts came a ing more than 66 percent of scrubbed out because of caused a global shutdown of ican when the action hit the chipping away at each other in est of split decisions 48-47, 47- brutal women’s strawweight re- possession in the second half, obstruction in the early sport in March. cage, and the canvas. between rounds. 48, 48-47 in a thrilling rematch match between America’s Rose before the Highlanders came skimishes. It took until the UFC has decamped to Abu “Gamebred (Masvidal) is the But there were smiles at the against former champion from Namajunas (10-4) and the Bra- to life. The visitors were within 28th minute for Perenara to Dhabi’s locked down Yas Island biggest, baddest dude out there end when the judges ruled over- Hawaii, Max Holloway (21-6). zilian Jessica Andrade (20-8). striking distance of snatching open the scoring when he in the United Arab Emirates until right now and I had to take him,” whelmingly in favour of Usman Brazil’s former three-time Andrade had stripped the title an unlikely victory as the clock neatly sidestepped his fellow the end of July to isolate fi ghters said Usman. with Masvidal, who was without world champion Jose Aldo (28-7) from Namajunas in May 2019 by ticked down but lost their own All Blacks scrum-half Aaron from the threat of the Covid-19 “I know a lot of noise was his coach Mike Brown who had was stopped in the fi fth by re- pile-driving her to the canvas for throw at a lineout which al- Smith and strolled 10 metres and ensure the shows roll on. made about him preparing on also tested positive for Covid-19, lentless Russian Petr Yan (15-1) a knockout. lowed the Hurricanes to hang to the line. Strict protocols mean athletes short notice but all these guys applauding his opponent. who claimed the vacant bantam- This time the pair traded on. Jordie Barrett orchestrated and staff are tested twice before are preparing for one guy and Usman’s 12-0 UFC welter- weight crown. blows before the 28-year-old The three-tries-to-one win the second try with a long pass leaving for the UAE, and twice that’s me. weight record is equalled only by The 27-year-old Yan rained Namajunas, her face bloodied, moved the Hurricanes past the to Kobus Van Wyk to score in again on arrival, before spending “I’m just at a level better. I future Hall of Famer Georges St- in blows on his 33-year-old op- edged a split decision 28-29, 29- Highlanders into third place the corner. 48 hours in quarantine – meas- have more tools in the tool box Pierre (26-2). ponent for three minutes before 28, 29-28. halfway through the domestic The Hurricanes turned with ures that caught out Usman’s and when I need to I can pull The headline fi ght and the two the referee stepped in to save the The 38-year-old Namajunas version of the southern hemi- a 12-0 lead and were quick to original opponent Burns (19-3). them out and use them.” other title fi ghts delivered on the veteran. will now likely get a world title sphere club championship build on it when play resumed. Usman never gave the The pair had exchanged heat- hype that had been built around “Aldo is a legend. I have only shot against champion Zhang featuring fi ve New Zealand After battering into the 35-year-old replacement Mas- ed words via social media in the the “Fight Island” showpiece. respect for him,” said Yan. Weili (21-1) from China, who teams. Highlanders defensive wall for vidal the space to land the com- lead-up to the event – Masvi- Australian featherweight “It was a good knockout. I took the title from Andrade 11 Unbeaten Canterbury more than fi ve minutes they binations for which he is noted, dal claiming his opponent had world champion Alexander Vol- liked it.” months ago. Crusaders, the Super Rugby eventually found a crack for champions for the past three fl anker Devan Flanders to dive seasons, are the runaway lead- through. ers with their 26-15 win over At 17-0 down, the High- Pumas’ De la Fuente eyes Top 14 ‘dream’ with Perpignan move previously unbeaten Auckland landers began their comeback Blues on Saturday putting with a Mitch Hunt penalty and Argentina centre Jeronimo de la franchise’s squad to find other by new team-mates, coaches and Benjamin Volavola and Tonga Guido Petti have also left their them on 18 points with a per- a try from Aaron Smith, who Fuente has signed a three-year clubs due to the impact of the the fans,” he said on the Catalan prop Siua Halanukonuka will also deals with the UAR for contracts fect four wins from four out- ducked around the short side deal with Perpignan after being coronavirus pandemic on the outfit’s Facebook page. feature for the Stade Aime-Giral with French clubs. The French ings. The Blues have 12 points of a lineout maul to reduce the released by the Jaguares due country’s rugby union (UAR). “I hope to fulfil my dream of play- side as they eye a return to the second-tier will also have Aus- followed by the Hurricanes defi cit to nine points. to financial issues, the French The ex-Jaguares captain led his ing the Top 14 with Perpignan,” top-flight. The 2009 Top 14 cham- tralia winger Henry Speight at on eight, the Highlanders on A Hunt penalty seconds second-tier club said yesterday. side to the Super Rugby final last he added. Perpignan were sec- pions’ former players include Dan Biarritz, former Fiji winger Timoci six with the winless Waikato from the full-time hooter se- De la Fuente, 29, who has 54 season where they lost to New ond in ProD2 when the season Carter, Percy Montgomery and Nagusa at Grenoble and ex-South Chiefs on three. cured a bonus point for the Argentina caps, was told last Zealand’s Crusaders. was declared over due to the Guilhem Guirado. Other Pumas Africa Sevens winger Dylan Sage “That was massive for us,” Highlanders and gave them month, along with the rest of “I’m very happy to be a part of Covid-19 outbreak without pro- internationals including loose at Montauban playing in the said Hurricanes skipper TJ one last chance to snatch vic- the Argentinian Super Rugby this club and I can’t wait to meet motion to the Top 14. Fiji fly-half forward Marcos Kremer and lock competition next term. Perenara. The Hurricanes tory but they turned over the dominated by employing ball soon after the restart. Gulf Times 6 Monday, July 13, 2020 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Thomas seizes PGA Tour lead at Muirfi eld LEADING THIRD-ROUND AFP three-shot lead and fi red an even maintained his cushion with a lot of ins, like 11, you see in prac- of the coronavirus pandemic. SCORES Washington par 72 to head into Sunday alone par save from a greenside bunker tice rounds, they’re kind of right “I’m just going to go out there in third on 203. at 16. in the middle of the green. They and keep executing my game It was a further two strokes “I got around very well to- look easy, but they’re on huge plan. I’m not trying to not make 200-Justin Thomas 68-66-66 ustin Thomas closed back to Sam Burns (70) and day,” Thomas said. “Scrambling, slopes or they’re on a fl oor.” a bogey. I’m stepping on the tee 202-Viktor Hovland (NOR) 69- in on his third win of the Kevin Streelman (71) on 205. chipping and putting, I’ve made After rain, wind and lightning trying to hit the fairway, trying 67-66 Jcoronavirus disrupted US Back-to-back birdies at the fi fth those putts when I need to, I’ve led to two suspensions on Fri- to make birdie. If you’re out of 203-Collin Morikawa 65-66-72 PGA Tour season Saturday, and sixth let Morikawa preserve hit some great chips and great day, the weather was sunny but position, then you try to make a 205-Sam Burns 69-66-70, Kevin fi ring a six-under par 66 to take a his lead even as Thomas strung bunker shots when I needed to.” windy for the third round. Tee par.” Streelman 70-64-71 two-shot lead over Viktor Hov- together three straight birdies at This week’s Workday Charity times have been moved up for Hovland is seeking his second 206-Ian Poulter (ENG) 68-69-69, land at Muirfi eld Village in Ohio. fi ve, six and seven - blasting out Open is the fi rst of back-to-back Sunday, however, with more in- US tour title this season, hav- Rory Sabbatini (SVK) 69-68-69 Thomas, whose 12 tour ti- of a greenside bunker to two feet events at the Jack Nicklaus de- clement weather in the forecast. ing gained his maiden win at the 207-Gary Woodland 73-68- tles include a major triumph at at the seventh to gain a stroke on signed Muirfi eld Village, added Thomas, who hasn’t had a bo- Puerto Rico Open in February. 66, Rickie Fowler 72-69-66, the 2017 PGA Championship, the leader. in to boost the coronavirus-dis- gey this week, said he wouldn’t His six-under eff ort was pow- Chase Seiff ert 68-69-70, Hideki had six birdies without a bogey Morikawa’s bogeys at the rupted calendar. be focused on keeping that streak ered by his length off the tee. Matsuyama (JPN) 67-68-72, MJ on the way to a 54-hole total of ninth and 10th opened the door The Nicklaus-hosted Memo- alive in the fi nal round. “Overall “Out here driving is very im- Daff ue (RSA) 73-69-65 16-under 200. for Thomas, who took full ad- rial will follow next week, and bogeys are going to happen,” said portant,” he said. 208-Matt Jones (AUS) 69-72- Norway’s Hovland had eight vantage, rolling in an 18 foot Thomas said eff orts to give the Thomas, who won the CJ Cup “I’ve kind of been spraying a 67, Troy Merritt 69-72-67, Sepp birdies in his 66 as he joined birdie putt at the 11th to seize the two events a diff erent look made at Nine Bridges back in October couple out to the right so if I can Straka (AUT) 69-70-69, Xander Thomas in overhauling over- lead and padding it with birdies for some tricky holes. and the Tournament of Cham- keep them a little straighter to- Schauff ele 69-73-66, Sam Ryder night leader Collin Morikawa, at 14 and 15. “Some pin placements I’ve pions in January before the tour morrow I’m going to give myself 70-72-66 who started the day with a World number fi ve Thomas never seen before,” he said. “A halted play in March in the midst a lot of birdie looks.” 209-Stewart Cink 72-69-68

GOLF FOCUS World TeamTennis to kick off season Warren ends 6-year with safety measures in place

Reuters ing in the fi nals against the New York Lasers last season, while 2017 title drought with US Open champion Sloane Stephens leads the expansion orld TeamTen- team Chicago Smash. nis (WTT) kicks As many as 500 fans at a Woff its three-week time will be allowed at the regular season Greenbrier’s 2,500-person yesterday, as the world of pro- stadium, making it among the fessional tennis moves forward rare few sporting events in Austrian Open win in the United States during the North America to welcome at- coronavirus outbreak. tendees in the Covid-19 era. Back-to-back champion Frances Tiafoe, a 22-year- ‘Hopefully this is the one and only time, no matter what I say, I do enjoy the caddie’s company’ Springfi eld Lasers face the Or- old American who reached lando Storm to kick off opening the quarter-fi nals at the 2019 day at the Greenbrier in West Australian Open, was forced AFP Virginia, with all matches tak- to drop out of the WTT events Vienna ing place at the resort through- earlier this month after testing out the season, where manda- positive for Covid-19. tory testing and temperature The event takes place weeks arc Warren captured checks, along with other safety after the Adria Tour was can- his fi rst European precautions, are in place. celled following its second MTour title in six years Four-time Grand Slam win- leg in Croatia due to numer- yesterday with a ner and comeback queen Kim ous positive coronavirus tests one-shot victory in the Austrian Clijsters of Belgium joins the among participants, includ- Open despite playing without New York Empire, who are ing Novak Djokovic, the top- his caddie who failed to pass a out for redemption after los- ranked player in the world. coronavirus test in time. The Scotsman birdied two of the last four holes for his fi rst title since 2014, when he tri- umphed in Denmark. However, victory was achieved despite having to carry his own bags over the four rounds after his caddie failed to meet corona- virus protocols and was barred from the event at the Diamond Country Club. “Carrying my bag this week probably helped tone it down a little, just going out and playing and seeing what happens. The result couldn’t have been any better,” said the champion. “Hopefully this is the one and Four-time Grand Slam winner and comeback queen Kim Clijsters. only time, no matter what I say, I do enjoy the caddie’s company.” The Scotsman, who started COMMENT the fi nal round of the fi rst Euro- pean Tour event since March tied for the lead with German Nico- lai Von Dellingshausen, opened No player parties here: with a birdie yesterday. But after three birdies and four bogeys over the next 11 holes, he Berlin tennis chief needed his late rally to hold off Marcel Schneider and Sebastian AFP Fiery Australian Nick Kyr- Garcia Rodriguez. Berlin gios, who had blasted the Schneider led but bogeyed the German player as “selfi sh” 14th and then Warren birdied the Marc Warren poses with the trophy after winning the Austrian Open yesterday. (European Tour) for his partying, also with- same hole. Warren then broke a rganisers of a Berlin drew from the Berlin event tie with Garcia Rodriguez with a away with a fi nal round of 76. exhibition tennis amid travel concerns from birdie on the 17th. LEADING FINAL ROUND SCORES “2014 was the last time I’ve Otournament aimed Australia where the pandemic After Garcia Rodriguez made a won,” added Warren. “In the a thinly-disguised has worsened with Melbourne double bogey on the 18th, War- 275-Marc Warren 66 69 70 70 Driel (NED) 71 65 70 72, Con- 69 70 70 71, John Catlin (USA) years since then, I’ve played jibe at Novak Djokovic and back in lockdown. ren needed a par to win and kept 276-Marcel Schneider (GER) nor Syme 67 70 69 72 71 69 71 69, Thomas Detry very poorly. The break has been Alexander Zverev on Saturday World number three Do- his nerve to hole a short par putt. 69 69 69 69 280-Miguel Angel Jimenez (BEL) 68 71 73 68 unfortunate for everyone but it by declaring: “There’ll be no minic Thiem is, however, He fi nished with his second con- 277-Wil Besseling (NED) 68 69 (ESP) 68 65 77 70, Philip 281-Nicolai Von Delling- came at a good time for me. I’ve player parties here.” expected to play in the tour- secutive 70 for a 13-under-par 74 66 Eriksson (SWE) 67 73 70 70, shausen (GER) 68 67 70 76, been able to get some good work Germany’s world number nament which also sees two- total of 275. Schneider shot a 69 278-Craig Howie 66 69 74 69, Christopher Mivis (BEL) 68 70 Joel Stalter (FRA) 68 69 70 done and get ready to play golf. seven Zverev was due to be one time Wimbledon champion to fi nish one shot back. Dutch- Sebastian Garcia Rodriguez 72 70, Oscar Lengden (SWE) 74, Renato Paratore (ITA) 68 Came out of it pretty refreshed.” of the headline acts in Berlin Petra Kvitova and Elina Svi- man Wil Besseling fi red 66, the (ESP) 70 67 69 72, Darius Van 69 68 73 70, Allen John (GER) 67 75 71 The season continues in Aus- but pulled out last week. tolina star in a women’s com- best round of the day, to fi nish tria next week with the Euram He had played in Djokovic’s petition. another stroke back. 72, were another shot behind. disastrous third round, fi nished record for oldest European Tour Bank Open followed by the Brit- ill-fated Adria Tour event in Wary of the fall-out from Four more players, includ- Veteran Spaniard Miguel Angel tied for eighth after shooting winner set at the 2014 Spanish ish Masters at the start of a six- the Balkans which saw the the Adria Tour and its lack of ing Garcia Rodriguez who made Jimenez, who had led before a 70. The 56-year-old holds the Open.Von Dellingshausen fell event UK swing. world number one, as well as social distancing, Weindorfer fellow players Grigor Dim- said a 59-page health dossier itrov, Borna Coric and Viktor had been handed to the Berlin Troicki all test positive for authorities before the green UK Sport denies using athletes as ‘guinea pigs’ for 2012 Olympics coronavirus. light was given. Players hugged and danced “We have a certain respon- UK Sport has denied putting Athletes were given waivers an improved medal haul. UK Sport also waivers and non- from our global competitors - shirtless at a nightclub while sibility and a certain pioneer- athletes welfare at risk after a over holding UK Sport liable for Team GB won a record 29 gold disclosure forms for those on the but UK Sport will never seek to thousands of fans attended ing role,” he told a news con- report claimed British Olympians side eff ects or positive doping medals at the home Games to trial were standard practice. win medals at any cost.” the matches. Zverev tested ference on Saturday, adding had been given an experimental tests as well as non-disclosure finish third on the medal table. “UK Anti-Doping confirmed in The Mail on Sunday’s investiga- negative but pledged to self- that representatives from the substance ahead of the London agreements preventing them “UK Sport does not fund re- writing, after seeking clarifica- tion found 40% of athletes isolate as a precaution. ATP and WTA tours will be in 2012 Olympics. from talking publicly about the search projects aimed at giving tion from the World Anti-Doping ended up with side eff ects However, just days later he the German capital to see how The Mail on Sunday reported project. our national teams a perform- Agency, that WADA had ‘no rea- including vomiting and gastroin- was fi lmed at a packed party. health protocols are handled. public money was used to pro- UK Sport said they had con- ance advantage at the expense son to consider such substances testinal upsets. “There are no player parties “These are turbulent vide a select band of 91 athletes sulted with both the World of athlete welfare,” said UK Sport as banned under the 2011 List of As a result 28 individuals here,” said Edwin Weindorfer, times.” Spectators at the two with an energy drink called Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and in a statement. Prohibited Substances and Meth- stopped taking the substance the organiser of the ‘Bett1A- venues - the Steffi Graf sta- DeltaG, claiming they had been UK Anti-Doping before using the “Consultation takes place with ods’,” the agency added. for this reason. A further 24 ces’ tournament in Berlin. dium and Tempelhof airport used as guinea pigs with no product to make sure it com- UK Anti-Doping and WADA “UK Sport is fully committed to later withdrew from the scheme He suggested that Zverev - must wear facemasks. guarantee the substance would plied with guidelines - and the wherever necessary to ensure developing a high performance because they thought the sub- had “not only made one mis- Professional tennis has not cause side eff ects or breach health of competitors would not projects comply with interna- culture that is truly inspirational stance was in no way beneficial take, but two” in reference to been on ice since mid-March anti-doping regulations. be put on the line for the sake of tional anti-doping regulations.” and one that will set us apart to them. his compatriot’s behaviour in and will only return in early recent weeks. August. Gulf Times Monday, July 13, 2020 7 FOOTBALL

SERIE A LA LIGA Costa’s header guarantees Atletico Ronaldo double top-four fi nish

Reuters Madrid

tletico Madrid sealed salvages 2-2 draw Champions League Aqualifi cation for the eighth consecutive season by beating Real Betis 1-0 at home on Saturday thanks to a late Diego Costa goal after hav- ing a player sent off and seeing two goals ruled out following for Juventus VAR reviews. Costa scored the only goal of the game with a scuff ed header Both handballs were clearly accidental but, under the current rules, the referee in the 74th minute, although Atletico had to wait several min- had no option but to award the penalties. It was rough justice on Atalanta utes for the referee to determine whether the ball had then hit his Atletico defender Mario Her- arm or shoulder on its way into moso was sent off in the 57th the net. following a straight red card for The victory took third-placed a reckless tackle, and Betis con- Atletico on to 66 points after tinued to dominate but could not 36 games, nine ahead of fi fth- keep their composure in front of placed Villarreal, and maintained the goal. coach Diego Simeone’s run of Instead, Atletico pounced reaching Europe’s premier com- with their weapon of choice, a petition in each of his full cam- set piece, as Costa got on the end paigns in charge. of Yannick Carrasco’s lofted free Betis, who had already ensured kick into the area. their top-fl ight status, are 13th “We are lucky that I scuff ed it on 42 points. because if I’d hit the ball cleanly Angel Correa had seen a it would have gone wide,” Costa goal ruled out in the fi rst half said. (Editing by Paul Simao) for a handball against Marcos Meanwhile, Barcelona for- Llorente, and Alvaro Morata had ward Antoine Griezmann is set to a strike ruled out for off side, miss his side’s fi nal two La Liga while Betis had come close to games after sustaining a thigh scoring through Andres Guar- injury during Saturday’s 1-0 win dado and Loren Moron. over Real Valladolid. The visitors were the better Griezmann, who has had an side for most of the second half underwhelming season since an and striker Loren should have 120-million-euro move from scored when he skipped into the Atletico Madrid last year, came area unchallenged but saw his off at halftime and a statement attempted dink past Jan Oblak from Barca on Sunday said he trickle wide of the target. had injured his right thigh.

FOCUS Juventus’ Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo (C) celebrates after scoring a penalty against Atalanta Bergamo at the Juventus stadium in Turin on Saturday.

Reuters points clear of second-placed Juventus, humbled 4-2 at AC before halftime, only to fall foul riel sent a pass across the face Ex-Australia and Turin Lazio with six matches to play. Milan on Tuesday, dropped Mi- of the handball rule 10 minutes of the penalty area to Ruslan Atalanta are a further point back ralem Pjanic but were quickly after the break. Paulo Dybala Malinovskyi who took it in his in third after being denied a forced onto the back foot by a fi red a cross against Marten de stride before fi ring a right-foot Palace captain ristiano Ronaldo con- tenth successive league win. typically audacious Atalanta Roon’s elbow and, although it shot past Szczesny. verted two penalties, Both handballs were clearly side. Duvan Zapata put the visi- was at point-blank range and But lightning struck a second Cboth awarded for hand- accidental but, under the cur- tors ahead in the 16th minute as the Dutchman’s arm was close time for Atalanta when Gonzalo Jedinak calls it a day balls and the second in rent rules, referee Piero Gi- an intricate exchange of passes to his chest, the referee imme- Higuain got his foot to a corner the last minute, as Serie A leader acomelli had no option but to with Alejandro Gomez opened diately pointed to the penalty and defl ected the ball onto Mu- AFP Juventus twice hit back to draw award the penalties. It was rough up the Juventus defence before spot. riel’s hand. Sydney 2-2 with Atalanta to move closer justice on Atalanta. The team, the Colombian slotted his shot Ronaldo smashed home the The Colombian did not have to a ninth successive Serie A title which leads Serie A in scoring, past Wojciech Szczesny. spot kick, scoring for the sixth time to get his hand out of the on Saturday. would have climbed into second The visitors continued to pen game in a row. way but, as it was outstretched, ormer Australia captain The Portuguese forward took place and cut the gap between Juventus into their half, enjoy- The game opened up, with the penalty had to be given and and Crystal Palace stal- his league tally to 28 goals this themselves and Juventus to six ing 58% possession and fi ve Atalanta regaining the lead in Ronaldo converted in the 90th wart Mile Jedinak an- season as Juventus went eight points if they had won. shots to the home team’s one the 81st minute when Luis Mu- minute. Fnounced his retirement yesterday, saying it was “time for a new chapter”. The 35-year-old spent fi ve seasons at the Lon- don club, joining from Turkey’s Police arrest 12-year-old for racially abusing Palace star Zaha Genclerbirligi in 2011, skippering London: A 12-year-old boy has “We were alerted to a series “We condemn all forms of ried a logo promoting the Black “I think it is very good that Palace to promotion back to the challenges and memories that been arrested after Crystal of racist messages sent to a racial discrimination and stand Lives Matter campaign. our club, Aston Villa and the Premier League via the playoff s will always be cherished. Palace forward Wilfried Zaha footballer today and after look- with @CPFC. Speaking ahead of the match, Premier League are doing in 2013. “I want to thank all the clubs I was racially abused in a series ing into them and conducting We are working with the police Palace manager Roy Hodgson everything they can to find out He moved to Aston Villa in represented for allowing me the of social media messages be- checks, we have arrested a in investigating this extremely said he supported Zaha’s call who this despicable individual 2016 but was released at the end opportunity to do so. It’s now fore his side’s Premier League boy,” West Midlands Police said serious matter and when the to make the direct messages is and one can only hope that of the 2018-19 season with spec- time for a new chapter.” defeat at Aston Villa yesterday. on their Twitter account. culprit is identified AVFC will public, as well as condemning they will get identified and they ulation that he may rejoin a team Palace paid tribute on Twitter, Zaha posted on Twitter three “The 12-year-old from Solihull issue a lifetime ban.” the content of them. will get called to account and in Australia’s A-League, where calling Jedinak “a leader of men screenshots of messages con- has been taken to custody. All Premier League games “It is very saddening on the day they will pay for these actions. he started his career. and a club legend”. taining racial abuse from an Thanks to everyone who raised since the season’s restart of a game that a player wakes “There is literally no excuse; But the defensive midfi elder He played 79 times for his Instagram account belonging it. Racism won’t be tolerated.” last month have begun with up to this cowardly and despi- there is no excuse at all.” took to Instagram to confi rm he country, featuring at three World to a Villa fan. Villa condemned the abuse players, staff and match of- cable abuse,” Hodgson said. The posts came two weeks was hanging up his boots aged 35. Cups before bowing out of inter- West Midlands Police said after and vowed to issue a lifetime ficials taking a knee to protest “I think it is right that Wilf made after the Premier League “I was a young boy from West- national football in late 2018. Villa’s 2-0 win that they had ban, tweeting: “We deplore the against racial injustice. people aware of it; I don’t think launched a new system to al- ern Sydney with a dream to play One of his biggest triumphs arrested a boy from Solihull in disgusting racist messages The shirts of all 20 sides in the it is something he should keep low Premier League players to professional football,” he said. was captaining the Socceroos to relation to the incident. sent to @wilfriedzaha. English top-flight have also car- quiet about. report online abuse. “My journey to reach that goal win the 2015 Asian Cup on home was full of so many experiences, soil.

BOTTOMLINE Manchester City to learn fate of Champions League ban appeal today

AFP over 12 years ago, City’s fortunes tion added to that tally. be forever tarnished if City are London have been transformed from per- It would be almost impossible found not only to have fl outed ennially living in the shadow of for the club to lose that level of FFP, but deliberately misled local rivals Manchester United to revenue for two years and remain UEFA in doing so. anchester City’s winning four Premier League ti- FFP-compliant without cutting But the stakes are also high for Abu Dhabi project tles in the past eight years among costs on transfer fees and wages, European football’s governing and the future of 11 major trophies. or selling players. body. MUEFA’s fi nancial fair Yet the prize that has eluded Even more painfully for City, Qatari-owned Paris Saint- play (FFP) rules face a pivotal day them is the one the Abu Dhabi Manchester United could be one Germain have already suc- today when the Court of Arbitra- project most desires — the of the major benefi ciaries of their cessfully won an appeal at CAS tion for Sport delivers its verdict Champions League. exclusion. against UEFA reopening a FFP on City’s appeal against a two- No matter the outcome today, City are comfortably second investigation into the French season ban from European com- City will have the chance to do so in the Premier League table, but champions. petitions. in August as they resume their if they are banned, fi fth will be The system which limits clubs The stakes could not be higher Champions League campaign good enough to qualify for the to not losing more than 30mn for the English side, who have al- with a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid Champions League. euros with exceptions for some ways strongly denied any wrong- from the fi rst leg of their last 16 United are currently in fi fth costs such as youth development doing over allegations they de- tie. with Chelsea or Leicester the and women’s teams over a three- liberately infl ated the value of That could be the last chance other sides likely to profi t. year period has helped cut debt income from sponsors with links for some of City’s biggest names The likes of Arsenal and Tot- across European football. to the Abu Dhabi United Group, to win the Champions League for tenham could also look to benefi t But its detractors point to the also owned by City owner Sheikh the club as a two-year ban would next season if City’s ban is upheld fact it maintains the status quo Mansour, to avoid falling foul of have severe consequences for the in full. Losing such a high-pro- with traditional giants like Bar- FFP regulations between 2012 club’s fi nances. Brighton & Hove Albion manager Graham Potter and Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola greet each fi le case would also cause major celona, Real Madrid and Bayern and 2016. Manager Pep Guardiola’s con- other before their team’s Premier League match on Saturday. embarrassment to the legacy of Munich always enjoying bigger In February, UEFA imposed tract runs until the end of the the City project. budgets thanks to their large glo- a fi ne of 30mn euros ($32mn, 2020/21 season and the Catalan two of their peak years without It would still take huge fees City made 93mn euros from It is no secret that one of the bal fanbases. £25mn) on City as well as sus- is unlikely to still be in charge in Champions League football. from rival clubs to tempt City to UEFA prize money and TV rights major motivations behind the Should UEFA lose another pending them from European two years’ time. “Two years would be long. sell, but they may be forced to from last season’s Champions billions invested is to promote case, questions will be asked over competitions for the next two Star players such as Kevin De One year is something I might downsize to gain re-entry to the League, with gate receipts and a positive image of Abu Dhabi how eff ectively FFP can ever be seasons. Bruyne and Raheem Sterling are be able to cope with,” De Bruyne Champions League even after extra sponsorship revenue from around the world. enforced at the highest level of Since Sheikh Mansour’s take- also unlikely to want to waste told Het Laatste Nieuws in June. any ban is over. Europe’s premier club competi- That image will for some the game. Monday, July 13, 2020 GULF TIMES FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE Spurs leave it late to beat Arsenal, Villa get a boost ‘We are happy because we made the fans happy, we are happy because we are still in the fight to win a Europa League position’

AFP go one point above Villa if they beat London Leicester later on Sunday. “We said to the players, ‘It’s like a semi-fi nal today’. It was the fi rst leg of oby Alderweireld gave Tot- the semi-fi nal we needed to go and win tenham a late 2-1 win over Ar- and we have done that with a good per- Tsenal as Jose Mourinho’s men formance,” Smith said. climbed above their north Lon- “We need to give ourselves a big don rivals, while Aston Villa boosted chance. Watford and West Ham play their Premier League survival hopes each other next so they both can’t take with a 2-0 victory against Crystal Pal- three points but we have to concentrate ace yesterday. on ourselves and hopefully get a result Mourinho had endured a barrage at Everton.” Smith’s men got an early of criticism as Tottenham slipped out stroke of luck when Palace defender of the race to qualify for the Champi- Mamadou Sakho had a goal ruled out by ons League with just one win in three VAR for handball games. But thanks to Alderweireld’s Villa snatched the lead in fi rst half winner with nine minutes left, Tot- stoppage-time when Conor Houri- tenham took the local bragging rights hane’s free-kick picked out Trezeguet, and got back in contention for a place in who side-footed home at the far post. next season’s Europa League. Trezeguet got Villa’s crucial second Tottenham are eighth, two points goal in the 58th minute, fi nishing clini- above ninth placed Arsenal and two cally after Hourihane nodded the ball behind Sheffi eld United as they try to forward. Palace striker Christian Ben- avoid missing out on European action teke was sent off for violent conduct for the fi rst time since 2009-10. after the fi nal whistle. “We are happy because we made At Molineux, Wolves stayed in the the fans happy, we are happy because Champions League hunt with a 3-0 win we are still in the fi ght to win a Europa against woeful Everton. League position,” Mourinho said. Raul Jimenez’s penalty and Leander “To be honest, Mikel (Arteta) found a Dendoncker’s header a minute either way for them to play, to be stable and to side of half-time put the game out of improve. We felt that we should adapt Everton’s reach. slightly to them and we did it very well. Diogo Jota beat Jordan Pickford at “Arsenal had 48 hours more than us his near post 16 minutes from time to to rest, so it was hard but it came from round off another performance that their hearts, this eff ort, this battle.” will see the England number one scru- In the fi rst north London derby at the tinised. Victory lifts Nuno Espirito new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Al- Santo’s Wolves back ahead of Sheffi eld exandre Lacazette put Arsenal ahead in United into sixth and within four points the 16th minute with a stunning strike. of fourth-placed Leicester. The French striker dispossessed Fifth could also be good enough for Serge Aurier outside the Spurs area be- the riches of Champions League foot- fore unleashing an unstoppable eff ort ball next season should Manchester inside the top near corner of the goal. City’s appeal against a two-season ban Arsenal’s lead lasted just three min- from European competitions fail when utes as Sead Kolasinac’s sloppy pass the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s gifted Son Heung-min the ball. verdict is revealed today. Son easily eluded David Luiz before chipping over onrushing keeper Emil- RESULTS iano Martinez. Aston Villa 2 (Trezeguet 45+4, 59) It was the South Korean forward’s Tottenham Hotspur’s Belgian defender Toby Alderweireld (3L) heads the ball to score against Arsenal at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. Crystal Palace 0 17th goal of the season and his fi rst Tottenham 2 (Son 19, Alderweireld 81) since the coronavirus hiatus. senal players to meet Son’s corner and kicked off languishing seven points with a chance of avoiding relegation. of fourth-from-bottom Watford with Arsenal 1 (Lacazette 16) In the 82nd minute, Belgian defender plant his header past Martinez. from safety, but Egypt winger Villa’s fi rst win in 11 league games three games left. Wolves 3 (Jimenez 45+2-pen, Dendon- Alderweireld rose above a cluster of Ar- At Villa Park, Dean Smith’s side Trezeguet scored twice to keep them in lifted them into 18th, within four points Second-bottom Bournemouth will cker 46, Jota 74) Everton 0

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Sterling hat-trick as Al Sadd eager for QNB Stars League restart

QNA held as per the protocol developed by City secure top four Doha the QSL in co-ordination with club au- thorities and approved by the Ministry of Public Health, Al Sadd squad members ahead of Champs ootball clubs are continuing their entered their team hotel and got engaged preparations ahead of the re- in training. After their second coronavi- sumption of 2019-20 QNB Stars rus test, the players as well as technical League verdict FLeague, with Week 18 matches and administrative staff signed a pledge starting on July 24. The tournament, to abide by the protocol for leaving team AFP which had a long break due to the Cov- hotel for home quarantine. Brighton, United Kingdom id-19 pandemic, will restart as per the The break was an opportunity for Al general plan and protocol for the remain- Sadd forward and Qatar national team ing fi ve rounds. Teams are fi ghting to captain Hassan al-Haydous to recuperate aheem Sterling scored occupy the top positions, improve their from an injury. a hat-trick as Manches- rankings and avoid the ignominy of rel- In terms of their foreign professional ter City ensured they egation. players, Al Sadd announced the departure Rwill fi nish in the Premier The Qatar Stars League (QSL) website of Spaniard Gabi Fernandez and Mexican League’s top four with a 5-0 win highlights each team and their prepara- Marco Fabian, even as they renewed the over Brighton on Saturday as the tions ahead of the resumption of compe- deal with Qatari star Akram Afi f until club wait to fi nd out whether titions. 2025. they will be allowed to compete Al Sadd are gearing up for the remain- Meanwhile, Al Sadd renewed the con- in the Champions League next der of the season under Spanish coach tract with Spanish coach Xavi Hernandez season. Xavi Hernandez. They will play Al Khor Al Sadd coach Xavi for one more season. City were handed a two-sea- in Week 18 at the Al Sadd Stadium on July Hernandez recently extended Besides intense training, Al Sadd are son ban from European compe- Aguero facing a race against time 25. The kick-off is at 19:00. his contract with the club. readying for the resumption of action by titions by UEFA in February, but to be fi t after knee surgery. Al Sadd are third in the QNB Stars playing friendlies. They played out a 1-1 appealed that decision to the The Brazilian has not always League standings with 32 points, 10 less and 27 against). Al Sadd have scored the 0-1 to Al Rayyan in the high-profi le Qatar draw with Umm Salal in one such game. Court of Arbitration for Sport been the most prolifi c fi nisher, than leaders Al Duhail and six adrift of most number of goals than any other Clasico in Week 17 on 7th March before Al Sadd’s other remaining matches in which will deliver its verdict to- but showed striker’s instincts to Al Rayyan. The Wolves have 10 wins, two team. Al Rayyan are second (34) and Al the long break, with Franck Kom netting the QNB Stars League are against Al Ahli day. tap Rodrigo’s fl ick-on for a cor- draws and fi ve defeats against their name. Duhail third (33). the all-important goal. (Week 19), Al Duhail (Week 20), Qatar SC On the fi eld, there is no doubt ner to make it 2-0 just before Their goal diff erence is +18 (45 goals for Reigning champions Al Sadd had lost Following their fi rst coronavirus test, (Week 21) and Al Gharafa (Week 22). Pep Guardiola’s men deserve half-time with his 20th goal of their place among the elite of Eu- the season. ropean football next season with Sterling notched his second another display that belied the of the night in unusual fashion 21-point gap between them and by crashing home a header from Virus could force Africa to rethink club competition formats champions Liverpool. Mahrez’s teasing cross. Too often City have been Brighton did themselves no Johannesburg: Reduced matchdays A six-round group phase comes next, a half. “A benefit of using one venue Mosimane. “Sometimes there are long found wanting for failing to take favours for the fourth as Mat due to the coronavirus pandemic may then two-leg quarter-finals and semi- for the final stages would be that VAR stopovers, and then there are internal their chances and punished for Ryan spilled a Bernardo Silva force the Confederation of African finals and a single-match final. (video assistant referee) could be used journeys on poor quality roads. You defensive lapses at the other end. shot he should have held and Je- Football (CAF) to rethink the format of “The 15 weekends currently needed from the quarter-finals on. need to be mentally strong when play- However, there was never sus teed up the Portuguese mid- its club competitions for the 2020/2021 for the Champions League could be “Anything that reduces the many ing in CAF competitions.” any chance of Brighton adding fi elder to roll into an unguarded season. cut in half to seven and a half,” said the controversies surrounding CAF club Gavin Hunt of Bidvest Wits is another to their nine defeats this season net at the second attempt. “Dropping the group stages and, in the off icial. matches will surely be welcomed.” South African coach familiar with the once Sterling curled home his Guardiola was then able to Confederation Cup, the play-off s are “Play three (two-leg) qualifying rounds Numerous clubs complain about the challenges of competing in the Cham- 25th goal of the season with un- ring the changes as he continues possibilities,” a senior CAF off icial, who and you are left with eight clubs. Then, amount of time consumed by involve- pions League and Confederation Cup. erring accuracy into the far cor- to prepare for next weekend’s FA requested anonymity as he is not an take a leaf out of the European book ment in CAF competitions with an “I envy European clubs who can travel ner. Cup semi-fi nal against Arsenal off icial spokesman, told AFP. and stage a mini-tournament over away match often taking up seven or to and from a country the same day. Gabriel Jesus’s defl ected shot and the return of the Champions The CAF Champions League tradition- eight days to produce champions. even more days due to limited travel We sometimes leave South Africa on a came back off the crossbar and he League next month. ally takes 15 weekends from start to “Using one venue, reduce the quarter- options. Monday to play a match six days later. then teed up Riyad Mahrez with Sterling was left on as Kevin finish and the second-tier CAF Confed- finals and semi-finals to single matches When South African clubs go to the “It can take a further few days to get some nifty footwork only for the De Bruyne and Jesus made way eration Cup 17 weekends. followed by the final. All seven north of the continent, they often have home by which time you have fallen Algerian to curl a great chance to give him the chance of secur- There are two, two-leg qualifying matches can be staged within eight or to fly via the United Arab Emirates or two of three fixtures behind your rivals wide. ing a hat-trick and he did so with rounds in both competitions, followed nine days. Qatar or even Europe. in the domestic league.” While CAF Jesus could be burdened with a hint of fortune as the ball rico- by play-off s between Confederation “By scrapping the play-off s in the “A big drawback when competing in ponder how to organise the 2020/2021 the responsibility of leading the cheted off his head after he had Cup last-32 winners and Champions Confederation Cup, you can apply the Africa is the amount of time spent club competitions, the 2019/2020 edi- line when City’s 2019/20 Cham- fallen to the fl oor inside the area League last-32 losers in the secondary same system to that competition, re- travelling,” admitted highly success- tions have yet to be completed due to pions League season gets back and Dan Burn failed to clear the event. ducing 17 weekends to just seven and ful Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso the pandemic. underway in August with Sergio ball off the line.