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Friday, February 10, 2017 Jumada I 13, 1438 AH GOLF I’ll never ‘feel GULF TIMES great’ again, says Tiger Woods SPORT Page 6 FOCUS CRICKET FIA confi rms T20 league key to Pakistan Qatar’s Abdulla as ending home exile: PCB chief

T2 world champ “The success of the PSL will open AFP Dubai the gates for teams to start coming into FIA Court of Appeal rules in Nissan driver’s favour against Saudi’s Saeidan Pakistan.” Zimbabwe played a one-day series By Sports Reporter akistan cricket chief Shahar- in 2015 but the likes of Australia, Eng- Doha yar Khan opened the second land, India and the West Indies have all edition of the Pakistan Super stayed away from Pakistan. League yesterday, describing Meanwhile, the second edition of the atar’s Adel Hussein Ab- theP glitzy Twenty20 event as key to fi ve-team PSL kicked off with dancing, dulla has won his FIA ap- paving the way for his country’s return a light show and music by Jamaican peal and was belatedly to hosting international series. reggae star Shaggy. crowned the 2016 FIA T2 Pakistan has been a no-go zone for The opening ceremony started with worldQ champion. all of their major rivals since a terror the national anthems of host country Running with support from Nissan attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in La- the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan Middle East, Nissan Qatar and the Qa- hore in March 2009. before the crowd was entertained by a tar Motor and Motorcycle Federation The Pakistan city is due to host the group of drummers and songs from all (QMMF), the Qatari produced several PSL fi nal on March 5 after all the quali- four provinces of Pakistan. stunning performances in last year’s fying games are completed in the Unit- All fi ve captains of the participat- FIA World Cup for Cross-Country ed Arab Emirates, the team’s home- ing teams signed a bat with the oath ‘to Rallies and fi nished second in the un- from-home for international cricket play clean and fair’ written on it before offi cial points standings behind Saudi for the last eight years. the teams marched past. Arabia’s Yasir Saeidan. “We are staging the second edition of After the opening ceremony, title But Adel Hussein’s TOK Sport team the PSL with the aim of staging the fi nal holders Islamabad United were taking on protested the legality of his main ri- in Lahore on March 5,” said PCB chair- Peshawar Zalmi. Karachi Kings, Quetta val’s car at the Rally of Morocco in man Khan as he welcomed fans to the Gladiators and Lahore Qalandars are the October and the protest was upheld Dubai Stadium. other teams in the tournament. at a recent FIA Court of Appeal. This meant Saeidan lost the points he scored at the event and Adel Hussein was declared the FIA T2 World Cham- pion, with Nissan’s rugged Patrol on top of the championship for the sec- ond successive year, after Denis Ber- ezovskiy’s victory in 2015. In his fi rst full season of cross- country competition, Adel Hussein claimed wins in Portugal, Abu Dhabi and Spain during a successful cam- paign in the world’s toughest off -road championship. “I would like to thank the FIA for confi rming me as the 2016 FIA T2 World Champion and a special thanks to Nissan Middle East, Saleh Al-Ha- mad Al-Mana Co. and the QMMF for their support,” said Adel Hussein. “I am very happy and am now look- ing forward to 2017 and a calendar that features an extra two events, where I hope to defend my title. I expect the competition to be even stronger this year. The timing of the decision was particularly poignant for me with the new season set to start in Russia at the end of February. “I am the number one ranked T2 driver in the world and it is the perfect start to what I know will be another challenging year.” Pakistan Super League chairman Najam Sethi unveils the winners’ trophy in Dubai.

Kharaitiyat, Arabi post QSL victories

Al Kharaitiyat’s Mohamed Abdulrahman Abdulla (third from left) and Al Sailiya’s Dragos Gregory (fourth from left) vie for the ball during their Qatar Stars League match at Al Khor Stadium yesterday. Abdulrahman and teammate Mahmoud Saad scored goals in their team’s 2-1 win, Al Arabi players celebrate a goal during their match against Al Gharafa yesterday. Luis Jemenz and Yousef Ahmad scored in Al Arabi’s 2-0 win at Al while Gregory scored for Sailiya. PICTURE: Nasar TK Arabi Stadium. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil Gulf Times 2 Friday, February 10, 2017 CRICKET

ONE-OFF TEST Azhar steps down Kohli sparkles as Pak ODI captain as Indians make Bangladesh suff er Bangladesh started well as seamer Ahmed bowled Rahul for two in the very first over but soon the Indian batsmen started bossing the visitors around the park

AFP final exit in the World Cup in Dubai 2015. He led Pakistan in 31 one-day internationals winning 12 and zhar Ali stepped losing 18. One match ended down as Pakistan without result due to rain. one-day captain af- Under his captaincy Pakistan ter a string of poor plummeted to ninth in one- resultsA and will be replaced day rankings. Currently at by Sarfraz Ahmed, the head of eighth Pakistan risks having to Pakistan’s cricket board told qualify for the 2019 World Cup AFP. to be held in England. Ali’s job was on the line The top seven teams plus since Pakistan’s 4-1 defeat in hosts England will get direct England in September last entry in the 2019 World Cup year but he was given a lifeline while four other ranked teams after he led the side to a clean will feature in a 10-team quali- sweep against West Indies in fying round in 2018. the United Arab Emirates in Khan said Test captain Mis- September-October. bah’s future is also in question. “Ali came to me and said that Pakistan’s 3-0 Test series loss his batting form was aff ect- in Australia in December-Janu- ing due to captaincy and that ary — their fourth consecutive he wanted to step down, so whitewash — had raised calls we have appointed Sarfraz for his sacking. as one-day skipper,” Pakistan “Misbah has asked for some Cricket Board chairman Sha- time (about his future) so we haryar Khan told AFP. have given him time to decide Sarfraz, who accepted the in the next few days,” said one-day captaincy, is already Khan. leading the Twenty20 side. Pakistan players are currently Ali managed just 37 in the featuring in the second edition three matches in Australia of the Pakistan Super League and missed the remaining two in United Arab Emirates. with injury. Their next international as- Ali was surprisingly appointed signment is a three-match captain after Misbah-ul-Haq one-day and three-Test tour of retired from one-day cricket the West Indies starting late following Pakistan’s quarter- March.

India’s captain Virat Kohli celebrates after scoring a century on the first day of the only Test match between India and Bangladesh at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad yesterday. CRITICISM

AFP world’s number one ranked Test team Indian batsman Chandu Borde’s domes- “On these wickets bowlers can’t aff ord Hyderabad, India looked to stretch their record-breaking tic record of 1,604 runs in a season during to bowl lose deliveries. We have to bowl unbeaten run to 19 matches. his innings. to our fi eld.” Australia churning Taskin Ahmed, Mehedi Hasan and He was eventually dismissed by teen- Kohli, who went past the 1,000-run urali Vijay backed his red-hot Taijul Islam shared a wicket each for the ager Hasan who otherwise remained mark in his 15th innings of the season, skipper Virat Kohli to pile on visitors but the day belonged fi rmly to fairly ineff ective against the number one got runs all around the ground as he hit and burning young the agony for Bangladesh af- their Indian hosts who elected to bat after Test team’s top order. 12 boundaries. Rahane, who was added ter centuries from both play- winning the toss. “Pujara is already a great batsman, to the starting line-up in place of Karun Mers gave their visitors a harsh introduc- “It’s always a great sight to see Virat and it is really helpful for me to pick his Nair — a triple centurion in India’s last talent, says Cowan tion to Test cricket in India yesterday. play... He has taken his game to a dif- brains... We both think in the same way,” Test match against England — was happy India were 356 for three at stumps on ferent level at the moment,” Vijay, who said Vijay. to play second fi ddle to his skipper. the fi rst day of the one-off Test in Hy- shared a 54-run stand with his skipper, Vijay, who survived a run-out chance India have won six of their eight en- Reuters “I don’t think the Australian derabad’s Uppal Stadium, with Kohli told reporters after the close of play. on 35, smashed twelve fours and a six counters against Bangladesh, with two Melbourne Test team manages any kind of unbeaten on 111 and Ajinkya Rahane also “I thought 340 would be a good score during his 160-ball stay before being matches ending in draws. exit very well to be honest. still at the crease on 45. at the end, but he (Kohli) made the extra bowled by Taijul early in the fi nal session. “From my own personal expe- Kohli has scored three double cen- 10-20 runs possible. Kohli, who had walked into loud cheers India ormer Test batsman Ed rience it feels like you’re left at a turies since July and looks well placed “The way he was striking the ball was from the crowd before tea, then piloted L. Rahul b T. Ahmed ...... 2 Cowan has criticised train station, you look up and the to compile yet another mammoth score fantastic. I hope he can come and do the the innings with aplomb. M. Vijay b T. Islam ...... 108 Australia’s handling of train is fi ve stops (gone) fl ying and compound the misery of the hapless same thing tomorrow.” The skipper reached his half century C. Pujara c M. Rahim b M. Hasan ...... 83 Fdiscarded players after down the tracks.” Bangladeshi bowling attack when play Bangladesh started the day well as in 70 deliveries and soon galloped to his V. Kohli not out ...... 111 Nic Maddinson withdrew from Left-hander Cowan, who resumes today. seamer Ahmed bowled Lokesh Rahul for hundred in the next 60 balls as the Bang- A. Rahane not out ...... 45 domestic cricket in the wake of played 18 matches for Australia, Bangladesh conceded 71 runs in the fi - two in the very fi rst over of the match but ladesh bowlers had no answers to his ef- Extras (lb 5, nb 2) ...... 7 his omission from the national speaks from experience, having nal 10 overs of the day as a rampant Kohli soon the Indian batsmen started bossing fortless stroke-making. Total (3 wickets; 90 overs) ...... 356 team. been dumped after a single Test raced to his 16th Test century, capitalis- the visitors around the park. “Normally I have seen that India Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Rahul), 2-180 (Pujara), Middle order batsman Mad- of the 2013 Ashes in England de- ing on the solid foundations laid earlier in Vijay and Pujara then laid the platform score big runs against every team in Test 3-234 (Vijay) dinson will miss New South spite his decent form in the pre- the day by Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara. for other batsmen to build on as they took cricket. It seems like a pretty fl at wicket Bowling: T. Ahmed 16-2-58-1, K.I. Rabbi Wales’ Sheffi eld Shield match ceding series in India. Their second wicket partnership was the attack to the opposition. and our fast bowlers are inexperienced,” 17-1-91-0, S. Sarkar 1-0-4-0, M. Hasan 20- against Queensland this week The 34-year-old has not been worth 178 runs, with Vijay ultimately Pujara, who hit two centuries in the Bangladesh’s Ahmed, who is playing just 0-93-1, Shakib Al Hasan 13-3-45-0, T. Islam and remain unavailable for se- considered since. out at 108 and Pujara making 83, as the recent England series, surpassed former his third Test, said. 20-4-50-1 lection for “personal reasons”, “First and foremost it’s just Cricket Australia and Cricket pure disappointment,” Cowan NSW said in a joint statement. said of being axed. “I think for BOTTOMLINE The 25-year-old was one of a some guys it can be a relief be- trio of young batsmen to debut cause the spotlight of interna- for Australia over the home sum- tional cricket is very bright and mer after selectors shook up the very harsh and if you’re not play- underperforming side during the ing well then sometimes you’re South Africa Test series. actually relieved that you can be While Queensland opener taken back from that. Malinga back for Australia tour Matt Renshaw and Victoria top “Then it’s a question of time order batsman Peter Handscomb healing the wound and really AFP Thilanga Sumathipala, president of the thrived at the top level, Maddin- wanting deep inside to get better Colombo Sri Lankan cricket board, told reporters son struggled and was dropped and reclaim that place. that Malinga had proved his fi tness and after the Boxing Day Test against “That whole process doesn’t even pencilled the former skipper in for Pakistan, having scored only 27 happen overnight. It can take a ri Lanka yesterday recalled veter- the next 50 over World Cup being played runs from his three matches. season, four weeks, sometimes an fast bowler Lasith Malinga to in England in 2019. Cowan, a New South Wales two seasons.” the squad for a series of Twenty20 “We are happy to see Malinga, he is fi t teammate of Maddinson, said Cowan said the hard-hitting internationals in Australia this to play. He will be available for the T20 Australia needed to do more to Maddinson was in “good spirits” monthS after his recovery from a long- squad (to Australia),” Sumathipala said in look after the mental health of and backed the lefthander to re- running knee problem. Colombo. young players tossed out of the claim his place in the Test side. The 33-year-old, who retired from Test “It is almost a year ago that we lost top level. “He’ll come back stronger cricket in 2010, has not played interna- Malinga from international cricket... “If they’re going to churn when he chooses to really fl ick tional cricket since last February when we want to prepare him for 2019 (World through players then Cricket that switch of desire wanting Sri Lanka suff ered an early exit from the Cup).” Australia need to be aware that to play and we’ll support him Asia Cup after being plagued by injury Skipper Angelo Mathews was on Mon- there’s going to be some burn through that,” he said. worries. day ruled out of the Australian tour be- and that they’re going to have “He’s 25 years old. His best Malinga gave up Test cricket after de- cause of a hamstring injury and the full to work extra hard on the wel- years are well and truly ahead of ciding he was unable to withstand the squad is yet to be announced. fare side to look after guys that him... (He’s a) prodigious talent rigour of fi ve-day matches but has con- Sri Lanka will face Australia on Febru- they spit out the other side,” the and that time will come.” tinued to make himself available for ary 17 in Melbourne, in Geelong on Febru- 34-year-old told local reporters Australia play India in a four- Twenty20 and 50 over cricket. ary 19 and in Adelaide on February 22. yesterday. Test series starting Feb. 23. Gulf Times Friday, February 10, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Robben Wenger calls for Arsenal relishing Bayern’s ‘week of fans’ backing against Hull truth’ You cannot be a fan until last Tuesday and not this Saturday, says Arsenal boss AFP Berlin

By Paul MacInnes The Guardian rjen Robben is relishing Bayern Munich’s forth- coming ‘week of truth’ rsene Wenger has called for when they host Arsenal unity after Arsenal’s dismal inA the Champions League with week in the Premier League, the German champions current- insisting it “doesn’t make ly struggling for form. sense”A for fans to turn against the team. Bayern scrapped into the After losing matches against Watford quarter-fi nals of the German and Chelsea, Arsenal are 12 points be- Cup on Tuesday with a 1-0 win hind the league leaders in fourth posi- at home to Wolfsburg, thanks to tion. Discontent amongst the support Douglas Costa’s fi rst-half goal has also become a talking point after a and heroics from Germany goal- banner calling for Wenger to leave the keeper Manuel Neuer. club sparked a public rebuke from the The Germans are bidding to TV pundit Gary Neville. reach the Champions League’s Wenger admits Arsenal are in a fi ght semi-fi nals for a sixth season even to qualify for the Champions in a row. They host Arsenal on League but called for fans to stay be- Wednesday on the back of a hind his team when they face Hull at the record 15-game winning streak in Emirates Stadium tomorrow. “Our fans European matches at the Allianz have been consistent and have a high Arena. Carlo Ancelotti’s star- level of expectation, as I have as well,” studded Bayern are four points Wenger said. “But I don’t feel it is ab- clear in Germany’s top fl ight and solutely clear. You cannot be a fan until are at relegation-threatened In- last Tuesday and not be behind the team golstadt away on Saturday in the this Saturday – it doesn’t make sense. Bundesliga. Robben says Bayern “All the other clubs we fi ght with, need a good performance at their Man United, Man City and Liverpool, Bavarian neighbours in their fi - they have big expectations as well and nal fi ne-tuning before hosting big histories. We are in a fi ght there. We the Gunners in the fi rst-leg tie of absolutely have to be united or we have the Champions League’s last 16 no chance to do it. Everyone is in the round with the return in London fi ght and everyone is behind their team. on March 7. We have to do exactly the same, even if The Dutchman scored against we had two disappointing results.” the Gunners in November 2015 Having previously described the when Bayern battered Arsenal matches against Watford and Chelsea 5-1 at the Allianz Arena, but is as a defi ning week in his team’s season, taking nothing for granted. “Our Wenger insisted the challenge for his performances haven’t been good team to pick themselves up was just as enough and we have to do a few important. “We are here to win football things better,” said Robben. games so when we don’t win football “We have to talk about this in games we are very disappointed,” he training and make sure we play said. “But this is an interesting week as as a team. Arsenal will be ‘the well because it’s a good test at an im- week of truth’ and will be ex- portant moment of the season and it’s Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger (left) tried to emphasise the unity in the squad by insisting quotes attributed to Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny, which appeared to citing. Normally, we are always as well a good opportunity to show what question the team selection against Chelsea, had been ‘lost in translation’ from the defender’s native French. where we need to be for games we are made of. like that, but it is a completely “We have a big fi ght in the Premier appointment together.” the France international regarding his Elneny, whose Egypt team lost the Af- the green light from the medical people diff erent game. It’ll be a step up. League, a big fi ght in the Champions Wenger tried to emphasise that unity reported comments, the Arsenal boss rica Cup of Nations fi nal, had returned to practise or not. At the moment he has It’s Champions League and the League and we still have the FA Cup by insisting quotes attributed to Arse- added: “Yes of course. He didn’t mean to training but said he was waiting for not practised.” opponents are always better.” as well. We want to do well in all three nal defender Laurent Koscielny, which that at all (that the line-up was wrong). medical reports on Hector Bellerin, who Arsenal will look to return to win- Bayern will have their hands competitions and that’s why it’s impor- appeared to question the team selec- But when you have disappointing re- was concussed in the buildup to Chel- ning ways in the league at home to full containing Arsenal’s at- tant that we focus, respond and get our tion against Chelsea, had been “lost in sults you know what you get — people sea’s opening goal last Saturday. relegation-threatened Hull tomorrow, tack which boasts Germany fans behind the team, because this is an translation” from the defender’s native who turn things around. But we can deal “We have the question about Beller- although the visitors will arrive at the midfi elder Mesut Ozil, plus star important and very sensitive part of the French. “That story has been twisted,” with that.” in,” Wenger said. “He’s going for tests Emirates Stadium fresh from a morale- forwards Alexis Sanchez, Theo season – and we have to respond to dis- said Wenger. Asked if he had spoken to Wenger confi rmed that Mohammed and we’ll only know tomorrow if he gets boosting 2-0 win at home to Liverpool. Walcott and Olivier Giroud.

FA CUP ROUND-UP Relief for Leicester coach Ranieri Man United announce as Ndidi rocket downs Derby record quarterly fi gures

AFP be more “steady” than in recent windows, dur- London ing which their squad has been extensively re- modelled. “There’s a happiness from the manager (with the squad), as you can tell from his recent anchester United announced record interviews,” Woodward said. quarterly revenues and profi t for the “There’s always continual improvement. But last three months of 2016 yesterday we aren’t necessarily in a position where we have despite the club’s failure to qualify for to churn a large number of players. We want to get Mthe Champions League. in a steady state.” Revenues climbed to £157.9mn, up 18% on the Woodward refused to confi rm reports United previous year, with broadcasting revenues up will return to the United States for their next pre- 40.8% and match-day revenues up 27%. season tour, but said the tour will be “larger” than Debt for the period surged 27.1% to £409.3mn, last year’s short trip to China. but United blamed it solely on the collapse of the pound following Britain’s vote to leave the Euro- SUAREZ HANDED TWO-MATCH BAN, pean Union last June. WILL MISS KING’S CUP FINAL “The robustness of our business model contin- Barcelona striker Luis Suarez will miss the King’s ues to be refl ected in our strong quarterly fi nancial Cup fi nal against Alaves in May after being results and we remain on track to deliver record banned for two games following his sending off in revenues for the year,” executive vice chairman Ed Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid. Woodward said in a statement. The suspension was handed down by the Last month, fi nancial analysts Deloitte revealed Competition Committee of the Spanish Football Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi (second left) scores a goal during the FA Cup Fourth Round replay against Derby County at the King Power United had returned to the top of football’s rich Federation (RFEF) yesterday and applies to cup Stadium in Leicester, central England, on Wednesday night. Leicester won 3-1. (Reuters) list for the fi rst time since 2005, supplanting Real matches only. The Catalan club had anticipated a Madrid thanks to revenues of £515mn. Bolstered one-match ban and had already said they would AFP win in six matches. Next up for Leicester in United. And with Derby boss Steve McClaren by a formidable commercial operation, United appeal after Suarez received a second yellow card Leicester, United Kingdom the Cup is a fi fth round trip to third tier Mill- making eight changes for the promotion expect record revenues of between £530mn and in the 90th minute of Tuesday’s semi-fi nal for wall on February 18, but Ranieri knows ensur- chasers, what could have been a blood and £540mn for 2016-17. United had written off Ger- “striking his arm against a rival player in a reck- ing top-fl ight survival is all that matters this thunder cup tie was more akin to a reserve man midfi elder Bastian Schweinsteiger as an asset less fashion”. ilfred Ndidi put a smile back on season. fi xture for long periods. Ranieri’s approval in the previous fi nancial quarter, but his return to The Uruguay international was punished for Claudio Ranieri’s face as the Ranieri hopes FA Cup victory can provide rating with Leicester’s supporters remains the fi rst-team fold was refl ected as a £4.8mn item the dismissal, as well as for not going straight to Leicester midfi elder’s fi rst goal a springboard to ease the spluttering cham- high and they sung his name loudly in the of “exceptional credit”. the changing room after leaving the pitch. Barce- for the troubled champions in- pions’ relegation fears. Leicester are only one opening stages. The growth in broadcasting and match-day lona defender Sergi Roberto will also miss the Cup Wspired a 3-1 win over Derby in Wednesday point above the Premier League relegation However, his makeshift line-up laboured revenues partly refl ects the fact there were three fi nal on May 27 after he was sent off for two yel- nigh’s FA Cup fourth round replay. zone and face a crucial clash at fellow strug- to reward the fans’ good faith in a turgid fi rst more home games in the most recent quarter low cards during Tuesday’s encounter at the Nou Ranieri has found himself under fi re after glers Swansea on Sunday. half. On the brink of half-time, Jacob Butter- compared to the equivalent period in 2015. Camp. Holders Barca beat Atletico 3-2 on aggre- Leicester slumped to within one point of the “In this moment everything goes wrong fi eld almost put Derby ahead when his fi erce But United also see it as a sign of the club’s en- gate to reach their fourth straight Cup fi nal. Premier League relegation zone less than a but tonight one thing went right. Derby low strike was turned away by Leicester goal- during popularity despite their failure to reach the On Wednesday, Edgar Mendez’s solo eff ort nine year after their fairytale title triumph. Amid played good football and we won,” Ranieri keeper Ron-Robert Zieler. Champions League in the season before Louis van minutes from time sent Alaves into their fi rst ever claims Ranieri has lost the support of his said. “This is what we needed and I wanted. Having struggled in the fi rst half, Ranieri’s Gaal gave way to Jose Mourinho as manager. Copa del Rey fi nal with a 1-0 semi-fi nal, second squad, the Leicester boss was given a vote Wilfred ndidi made a very good goal, as did side fi nally pieced together an incisive at- United have been sixth in the Premier League leg win over Celta Vigo enough to progress by the of confi dence by the club’s Thai owners on Demarai Gray. I’m happy with Ndidi. This tack to take the lead in the 46th minute. Gray table since November, but have closed to within same score on aggregate. Tuesday. But Ranieri was in danger of an em- young player full of personality and good was the catalyst, cleverly working space for a two points of the Champions League places. They The visitors were left to rue a string of missed barrassing Cup exit when second tier Derby character. We’ve chosen well. We want to do cross to the far post, where Marc Albrighton play Southampton in the League Cup fi nal on chances in the fi rst leg as Mendez burst through forced extra-time at the King Power Stadium well in all competitions. We want to go for- nodded back across goal to King and the February 26 and remain alive in both the FA Cup the Celta defence before fi ring high past Sergio thanks to an Abdoul Camara equaliser after ward in the FA Cup. The Premier League is long-serving Leicester midfi elder headed and the Europa League. Alvarez to wild scenes of celebration at Mendi- Andy King’s opener. not so good but we have to stay in the Premier home from close-range. Leicester conjured Woodward congratulated captain Wayne zorrotza. Ndidi was Ranieri’s saviour as the Nigeria League. This fresh air is good for the players.” a moment of inspiration to win it four min- Rooney for the “remarkable feat” of surpassing Alaves will have to beat Barcelona to lift the international, who joined from Belgian club Having labelled Sunday’s trip to fellow utes into extra-time. Riyad Mahrez fed fellow Bobby Charlton as United’s record scorer, after he Cup for the fi rst time, though, in May’s fi nal af- Genk in January, came off the bench to score strugglers Swansea as a ‘big battle’ it was no substitute Ndidi who advanced unchecked netted his 250th goal for the club. ter the holders reached their fourth straight fi nal with a superb long-range eff ort before Dema- surprise Ranieri made 10 changes from last before unleashing a blistering strike that beat In a conference call with investors, Woodward with a 3-2 aggregate win over Atletico Madrid on rai Gray’s solo strike clinched Leicester’s fi rst weekend’s 3-0 defeat against Manchester Mitchell and went in off a post. said United expected future transfer activity to Tuesday. Gulf Times 4 Friday, February 10, 2017 FOOTBALL

QSL DIEGO MARADONA TO WORK FOR FIFA Berlin: Argentine football icon Diego Maradona is to be given Leaders Lekhwiya a role at FIFA, the ruling foot- ball body confirmed yesterday. A FIFA spokesman said that Maradona would join “in recog- nition of his outstanding and unique contribution to football. “FIFA is looking for the best face champs Rayyan way to collaborate with Diego Armando Maradona, ensuring he has a major role in FIFA’s Rayyan are fourth in the table and are fighting to finish in the top four this season activities to promote the game across the globe, through his By Sports Reporter involvement in relevant devel- Maradona was critical of Doha opment projects and the FIFA FIFA in the past but had re- Legends’ programme.” cently endorsed the expansion The 1986 World Cup winner of the World Cup from 32 to 48 efending champions Al Rayyan Maradona, 56, had earlier teams, first proposed by new take on Lekhwiya in Qatar Stars said on Facebook he would FIFA president Gianni Infan- League today, with the Match of be working for FIFA. “Now it’s tino. He also appeared in the the week taking place at the Al off icial. Finally I can fulfil one of legends match. SaddD stadium. Rayyan are fourth in the the lifelong dreams; to work for FIFA has also welcomed on table and are fi ghting to fi nish in the top a clean and transparent FIFA board two other stars, with four this season. The Lions will be look- alongside people who really Dutchman Marco van Basten ing to win this game after they drew in love football. Thanks to all who working as technical director their last encounter. have encouraged me to face and Croatia’s Zvonimir Boban Michael Laudrup, the head coach of this new challenge!” he said. as deputy secretary general. Rayyan, is focused on the game. “When one game fi nishes the next game starts. It’s a big game. We are playing the top team in the league, they have not lost any ROUND-UP game this season and they are having a fantastic season. Last time we were very close to beat them but they scored in in- jury time. So we will try to win this time,” UEFA seeks to limit he said. “Even if we win the last seven games, I don’t think we will be number one leaders’ terms because Lekhwiya will not lose many points. But what we will do is try to win Head coach of Al Rayyan Michael Laudrup (right) addresses a press conference yesterday. AFP calendar — regularly complain- this game and put the ball in motion for Nyon ing that players are put into too the title race,” added Laudrup. many games — and on the share- Lekhwiya are on top of the table with out of the huge revenues from a fi ve-point lead over second-placed Al EFA’s executive yes- the Champions League and four- Sadd and are undefeated this season. terday voted in favour yearly European Championships. The Cops will be looking to push further of limiting leaders to European clubs received ahead in the race by getting the three three four-year terms 150mn euros in compensation points against Rayyan. andU guaranteeing two seats for from UEFA for Euro 2016 and Bruno Oliviera, the assistant coach of Europe’s increasingly powerful this will rise to at least 200mn Lekhwiya, is treating this game like any clubs. The moves were part of re- euros for the 2020 tournament. other game in the league. “The game forms that new leader Aleksand- The ECA will have “two full preparation has been normal like we do er Ceferin has vowed to intro- member positions” on the UEFA against every other team. We work on duce since taking over from the executive under Ceferin’s plan. the training ground and we get the confi - scandal-tainted Michel Platini in That will increase competition dence. The expectation is the same which September. for fewer places for national is to win the game,” Oliviera said If agreed at a congress in Hel- associations. “It’s too early to think about winning sinki on April 5, the UEFA presi- the league. We stick to one game at a time. dent and 16 executive members SCOTLAND TO APPEAL We have been consistent and we hope we will be limited to three four-year AGAINST POPPY FINE can continue this trend. There is only fi ve terms. The governance reforms The Scottish Football Associa- points diff erence, which is not a lot so we would also mean that any execu- tion will appeal against the fi ne can’t be relaxed and take it for granted,” tive member seeking reelection imposed by FIFA over the wear- added the Portuguese. must hold an active top offi ce in ing of commemorative poppies Speaking about the importance of the Bruno Oliviera (left), the assistant coach of Lekhwiya, speaks to the media. his country’s national associa- by Scotland’s players, the organ- game, Oliviera added, “Every game is de- tion, such as president or general isation announced yesterday. cisive every game is three points. I don’t Absences aff ected us negatively but with sult, none of us are satisfi ed,” added the rale of the side and I hope we get a good secretary. The SFA was fi ned $20,000 think this game is decisive for the title.” the returning players we hope we can get Qatari coach. result in this game,” he said. With the FIFA scandal and after Scotland’s players wore points.” Philip Birrol, the head coach of its fallout in Europe still fresh poppy symbols in memory of UMM SALAL AIM TO Al Ahli suff ered a big 5-1 defeat at home AL KHOR AND MUAITHER Muaither is treating this game as a fi nal. in many minds, two extra in- Britain’s war dead during a World JUMP AHEAD OF AL AHLI to Al Rayyan last week. The Brigadiers BATTLE FOR SURVIVAL “The game is like a fi nal. The match is like dependent members of UEFA’s Cup qualifi er against England on In another match tonight, Umm Salal will will be looking to bounce back and keep In the early kick-off , Al Khor host six points for us. They are not far from governance and compliance November 11. face Al Ahli at the QSC stadium. Umm their position in the table. Head coach Muaither. Al Khor are just above the drop us, there is only a few points diff erence. committee are to be named. A England’s FA, fi ned 45,000 Salal are in seventh position, just one of Al Ahli Yousef Adam is happy with his zone in tenth position with 19 points, Tomorrow we have to provide a big per- specifi c article will also be add- Swiss francs, immediately point behind Ahli and will be hoping to new signings while Muaither are second last in the ta- formance to win this fi nal.” ed to the UEFA statutes to in- launched an appeal when the secure three points to jump ahead of their “They help us improve our game and ble and have 15 points from 19 games. “Our players know the importance of sist that venues for all European punishments were announced opponents. Umm Salal will also be look- now we believe we have some of the best Jean Fernandez, the head coach of Al the game. Since the fi rst day of the league, competitions “are selected in a in December and their Scottish ing for their fi rst win in fi ve games. players in the league. Chikhaoui, Adel Khor, believes that this is a must-win we are ready to fi ght ... I want my players fully objective manner through a counterparts have now followed Mahmoud Jaber, the head coach of Ahmed and Ali Ferydoon are playing well match. “It’s an important match for us to be like commandos. We want every- transparent bidding process.” suit. England’s players and man- Umm Salal, said that his team was strug- and are a great addition to our team,” he between two teams who are competing one to know that Muaither is not a weak Europe’s top clubs and their ager Gareth Southgate and Scot- gling with absences. “Every team has said. “Last match we had more chances for survival. We have no choice but to team. Al Khor has a good team they play union, the European Club Asso- land’s players wore black arm- ambitions and we are working to achieve than the opponent, however, we made win. I respect Muaither club, they have good matches but if my players play hard ciation, have sought for years a bands bearing red poppy motifs our targets. Our situation is getting bet- two big mistakes. I don’t want to blame a dynamic style of playing. After the de- and play tough they can win,” Frenchman place on football’s top table. They at the Wembley game, which ter and injured players are getting back. the whole team for them. As for the re- feat, last week, we had to rebuild the mo- said. want a greater say in the football England won 3-0.

LIGUE 1 GERMAN CUP Payet opens Marseille Kalou’s miss puts Dortmund into quarters account in victory AFP Berlin AFP his 19th goal of the season as Paris Lyon produced an encourag- ing response in the wake of last alomon Kalou’s missed spot-kick weekend’s damaging Rhone der- put hosts Borussia Dortmund into imitri Payet scored his by defeat to thrash Nancy 4-0. the German Cup quarter-fi nals on fi rst goal in his fi rst Mathieu Valbuena curled in a Wednesday night as Hertha Berlin Marseille start follow- superb 39th-minute opener with lostS 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. ing his controversial re- his fi nal touch before hobbling The Ivory Coast striker gave Hertha turnD from West Ham in Wednes- off injured at Parc OL, while Na- a fi rst-half lead in the third-round cup day night’s 2-0 victory at home bil Fekir grabbed a second before clash in Dortmund when he volleyed to Guingamp in Ligue 1. half-time. home on 27 minutes after the hosts made Bafetimbi Gomis headed his Lacazette then struck from a slow start. But Dortmund raised the 14th goal of the season to hand the penalty spot after substi- pace as Marco Reus equalised straight Marseille a fi rst-half lead before tute Memphis Depay was fouled after the break while Pierre-Emerick Au- Payet’s defl ected 76th-minute in the area, with the ex-Man- bameyang had a goal disallowed and Ous- free-kick secured the points at chester United winger netting mane Dembele fi red wide for Borussia. the Stade Velodrome. “Payet was his fi rst goal for his new club to Dortmund kept up the pressure as the decisive, he proved he’s getting cap the rout. “The result does us game went into extra time. However, they stronger,” said Marseille coach good because we needed to get fi nished with 10 men when defender Sok- Rudi Garcia. “He needs to fi nd a win after three straight losses. ratis was sent off in the 119th minute for his rhythm and nothing is better We still have a long way to go, dissent — just before the fi nal whistle — for that than starting a match.” though,” said Lyon coach Bruno as his back-chat earned him two yellow Earlier, Wylan Cyprien’s Genesio, as the home fans held cards in quick succession. scorching strike kept Nice within up a series of banners venting In the shoot-out, goalkeeper Roman three points of leaders Monaco their unhappiness at recent per- Burki was Dortmund’s hero. He saved Borussia Dortmund players celebrate after the penalty shoot-out win over Hertha Berlin in German Cup on Wednesday. (AFP) following their 1-0 victory over formances. “I completely under- Hertha’s second penalty from Vladimir Saint-Etienne. Cyprien rifl ed stand the dissatisfaction of our Darida and stopped Sami Allagui’s fourth quarters with a 2-1 win at second-divi- while last season’s fi nalists Dortmund Bielefeld, while Hamburg are at home in the only goal after just seven supporters because we haven’t shot, although unluckily for Burki the ball sion Hanover 96 with goals from Israel are away to third division giant-killers to Borussia Moechengladbach in an all- minutes at the Allianz Riviera as done everything since the start of still rolled into the net. But Kalou blasted defender Taleb Tawatha and striker Haris Sportfreunde Lotte. The quarter-fi nals Bundesliga tie. Nice bounced back from Satur- the season to make them happy his eff ort over the bar to send Dortmund Seferovic. will be played on February 28 or March 1 day’s heavy defeat at Cote d’Azur like they deserve,” he added. On through. Before kick-off , Dortmund cap- Schalke saw off second-division Sand- with the fi nal taking place at Berlin’s Ol- German Cup quarter-final fixtures and title rivals Monaco. Tuesday, Monaco remained top tain Marcel Schmelzer addressed home hausen with a 4-1 win thanks to three ympic Stadium on May 27. Eintracht Frankfurt v Arminia Bielefeld, Nice moved back level on of the table after a hard-fought fans to criticise hooligans who attacked goals in a devastating seven minute-spell Carlo Ancelotti’s Bayern, who have Sportfreunde Lotte v Borussia Dortmund, points with second-placed Paris 2-1 win at Montpellier. RB Leipzig supporters, including families, from Alessandro Schoepf, Daniel Cali- reached the last eight for the 10th year Bayern Munich v Schalke 04, Hamburg v Saint-Germain after just a sec- RESULTS before last Saturday’s home league game. giuri and Naldo. Third-division minnows in a row, face a tricky home tie against Borussia Moenchengladbach ond win in six league matches. Lyon 4 (Valbuena 39, Fekir 43, The violence has shocked Germany. Sportfreunde Lotte, from near Osna- Schalke, who held the Bavarians to a 1-1 Wednesday’s results “We produced a good fi rst Lacazette 54-pen, Depay 58) Nancy “We as players were, and are, very brueck, continued their giant-killing run draw at the Allianz Arena last Saturday in Sportfreunde Lotte 2 (Lindner 28, Freiberger half. We scored a very good goal 0; Nice 1 (Cyprien 7) Saint-Etienne shocked at what happened,” said with a 2-0 win at home to second-tier the Bundesliga. 58) 1860 Munich 0; Sandhausen 1 (Wooten and had some good chances af- 0 Angers 0 Rennes 0; Metz 2 (Sarr Schmelzer in a video message. “On Sat- 1860 Munich. Sportfreunde Lotte, who have beaten 64) Schalke 04 4 (Schoepf 38, Caligiuri 43, ter that,” said Nice boss Lucien 46, Diabate 66-pen) Dijon 1 (Var- urday, people were harmed and we con- Bayer Leverkusen and Werder Bremen in Naldo 45+1, Konoplyanka 71) ; Borussia Dort- Favre. “It’s a pity we couldn’t get rault 78); Lorient 1 (Marveaux 60) demn that as a team. We, the team, wish HOLDERS BAYERN HOST previous rounds, host a plum tie against mund 1 (Reus 47) Hertha Berlin 1 (Kalou 27) that second goal because it was a Toulouse 1 (Delort 24); Marseille 2 all victims a good and speedy recovery SCHALKE IN QUARTERS Dortmund. Eintracht Frankfurt, who are aet Dortmund win 3-2 on penalties; Hanover long match afterwards.” (Gomis 26, Payet 76) Guingamp 0; and apologise for what happened.” Holders Bayern Munich will face Schalke currently third in Germany’s top tier, 96 1 (Harnik 57) E. Frankfurt 2 (Tawatha 62, Alexandre Lacazette scored Bastia v Nantes — postponed Eintracht Frankfurt also reached the 04 in the German Cup quarter-fi nals are at home to second division Arminia Seferovic 66) Gulf Times Friday, February 10, 2017 5 SPORT

NBA SPOTLIGHT Curry jabs at Trump, James Warriors crush slams travel ban

AFP orientations; diff erent ages, life Los Angeles experiences and opinions,” the statement said. “This is the core of our company.” Bulls, Spurs and BA superstars LeBron Curry said he wouldn’t rule James and Stephen out a departure from the com- Curry are rivals on the pany that manufactures his sig- Ncourt, but they were nature basketball shoe. united Wednesday in their will- “If I can say the leadership ingness to call out US President is not in line with my core val- Donald Trump. ues, then there is no amount of Golden State Warriors star money, there is no platform I Cavs post victories Curry stepped gamely into the wouldn’t jump off if it wasn’t in political fray with a sly response line with who I am,” he said. to Under Armour apparel com- “So that’s a decision I will Kevin Durant scored 22 points, pulled down 10 rebounds and handed out seven pany chief Kevin Plank’s de- make every single day when I scription of Trump as a “real as- wake up.” assists as the Warriors improved their league-leading record to 44-8 set” to the country. Warriors coach Steve Kerr, “I agree with that descrip- an outspoken critic of Trump’s tion, if you remove the ‘et’ from executive order limiting travel asset,” Curry told the Mercury to the United States by refu- News when asked about the gees and travellers from seven comments from Plank. majority-Muslim countries, said Curry is the key endorser of he was proud of his players for Under Armour’s line of basket- speaking out on political and so- ball apparel. cial issues. He’s under contract with “This is a time when people are the fi rm through 2024, and ac- speaking out,” Kerr said. “This is knowledged he was surprised a time when activism is into the to hear Plank’s comment, made forefront, all over the map.” in an interview this week with James, who campaigned in CNBC. Ohio for Clinton during the Curry, who endorsed Hil- election, added his voice to those lary Clinton in the bitter US criticizing Trump’s travel ban, in presidential election, told the an interview with the Hollywood Mercury News he had spoken Reporter. to “countless people” at Under “Diversity is what makes this Armour. country so great,” James said. He said he was reassured by a “We should all continue to speak statement released by Plank on up and fi ght for ideas that bring Wednesday, clarifying the re- people together regardless of marks in which he said having race, gender, ethnicity, religious “such a pro-business president beliefs or any other diff erences.” is something that is a real asset James directly addressed for the country”. Trump’s executive order on trav- In the statement, Plank said el, which has been temporarily Under Armour has long been blocked by legal challenges. committed to supporting Amer- “I am not in favour of this pol- ican jobs and manufacturing, icy or any policy that divides and but stressed the Baltimore- excludes people,” James said. based fi rm was committed to di- “I stand with the many, many versity — something critics say Americans who believe this does Trump policies undermine. not represent what the United “We have teammates from States is all about. diff erent religions, races, na- And we should continue to tionality, genders and sexual speak out about it.”

Chicago Bulls center Robin Lopez (8) is fouled by Golden State Warriors center JaVale McGee (1) while attempting a shot in the third quarter at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Bulls 123-92. PICTURE: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

AFP The San Antonio Spurs, second in the ning streak to 12 games with a 106-88 and Daniels were ejected and a total of six Los Angeles West and behind the Warriors, didn’t live victory over the Bucks in Milwaukee. technical fouls handed out. up to coach Gregg Popovich’s high stand- Hassan Whiteside scored 23 points and “You talk trash sometimes,” Booker ards but still pulled off a 111-103 victory James Johnson added 20 for Miami, who said. “I don’t know why he’d be talking he Golden State Warriors bounced over the 76ers in Philadelphia. held Milwaukee to 47.1 % shooting. to me. He’s been on fi ve teams in three back in a big way Wednesday, “We didn’t play a good 48 minutes,” The Heat were a slightly better 47.7 % years and he has the nerve to talk trash romping to a wire-to-wire 123- Popovich said. “We played good the last from the fl oor, but made 11 of 33 three- to me?” 92 NBA victory over the under- three, four, fi ve. We didn’t move that point attempts and pulled down 14 of- Courtside in New York, former Knick mannedT Chicago Bulls in Oakland. well. We didn’t get that many assists. We fensive rebounds. Charles Oakley was restrained by Madi- Klay Thompson celebrated his 27th held the ball. We turned it over. It was The defeat was especially painful for son Square Garden security personnel birthday by sinking six three-pointers very disappointing.” the Bucks, who saw Jabari Parker depart and then taken into custody by police af- en route to a game-high 28 points for the Nevertheless, the Spurs never trailed, with a sprained left knee after a drive to ter an angry outburst. Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) looks to pass the Warriors, who were shocked by the Kings shooting 52.7 % from the fi eld and mak- the basket in the third quarter. It was just the latest melodrama con- ball away from Chicago Bulls guard Jerian Grant (2) during their in Sacramento on Saturday. ing 11 of their 22 three-point attempts as Parker, who scored 14 points, had to be nected to the Knicks, who led by 10 early game on Wednesday. The Warriors haven’t lost back-to- they improved to 40-12. helped off the court and didn’t return. in the fourth quarter only to lose 119-115 back games since April of 2015. All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard The Memphis Grizzlies’ dominant de- to the Los Angeles Clippers. Kevin Durant scored 22 points, pulled scored 32 points for the Spurs. fense was on display in a 110-91 home BOTTOMLINE down 10 rebounds and handed out seven The NBA champion Cleveland Cava- win over the Phoenix Suns. Results assists and Draymond Green added 19 liers snapped the Indiana Pacers’ seven- The Grizzlies held the Suns to 33 % SACRAMENTO 108 Boston 92 points as the Warriors improved their game winning streak with a 132-117 tri- shooting — 21.7 % from three-point GOLDEN STATE 123 Chicago 92 league-leading record to 44-8. umph in Indianapolis. range — in a game that saw three players LA Clippers 119 NY KNICKS 115 Korver fi nds his Stephen Curry had a quiet night, scor- Kyrie Irving and Kyle Korver scored 29 tossed late in the fourth quarter. MEMPHIS 110 Phoenix 91 ing 13 points to see his streak of consecu- points apiece and LeBron James added 25 Devin Booker, who led the Suns with Utah 127 NEW ORLEANS 94 tive games of 20 or more end at 16. for the Cavaliers, who rallied from a six- 20 points, fouled Memphis reserve Troy MINNESOTA 112 Toronto 109 rhythm, Cavs That didn’t matter against a Bulls team point halftime defi cit to win their fourth Daniels with 1:10 remaining. Their heat- Miami 106 MILWAUKEE 88 missing All-Star forward Jimmy Butler in a row. ed exchange drew in a welter of players, DETROIT 121 LA Lakers 102 because of a bruised heel and veteran The Boston Celtics saw their seven- with Daniels shoving Phoenix’s Tyler Washington 114 BROOKLYN 110 (OT) dominate Pacers guard Dwyane Wade, who stayed at the game winning streak end, falling 108-92 Ulis before offi cials and coaches stepped ATLANTA 117 Denver 106 team hotel because of an upper respira- to the Kings in Sacramento. in. San Antonio 111 PHILADELPHIA 103 AFP consistent and work on my craft tory illness. The Miami Heat extended their win- Ulis, Suns teammate Marquese Chriss Cleveland 132 INDIANA 117 Los Angeles and try to get going.” His 29 points matched team- mate Kyrie Irving’s total for most NHL yle Korver is fi nding his scored in the game. feet with the Cleveland Cleveland star LeBron James Cavaliers. added 25 points for the Cavaliers, The reigning NBA who won their fourth straight Kchampion Cavs beat the Indiana and snapped the Pacers’ seven- Pacers 132-117 in Indianapolis on game winning streak. Wednesday with a key contribu- Kevin Love contributed 14 Toews’ OT goal gives Hawks win tion from Korver, who arrived in points and 10 rebounds for Cleveland last month from the Cleveland. The Sports Xchange Schmaltz and Richard Panik up overtime. stormed back. A video review went on for Atlanta Hawks, where he had “I got a lot of great looks,” Kor- New York also scored for the Blackhawks, Panik secured a loose puck Spurgeon put Minnesota on several minutes, with the on-ice played since 2012. ver said. “Nothing gets a shooter who got 35 saves from goal- behind Kuemper after the goalie the board 37 seconds later for offi cials even using a cell phone Korver scored 29 points — his open like more shooting, like tender Corey Crawford. came out to challenge the play his seventh goal of the season. to speak with the league’s situ- most in a game since February with LeBron and Kyrie. You got onathan Toews scored Jared Spurgeon, Zach Parise when Chicago defenseman The Wild tied the game mid- ation room in New York. 21, 2007 — connecting on eight to pick your poison. I got in a at 3:09 of overtime as and Erik Haula scored for the Niklas Hjalmarsson was fed the way through the period on a Parise skated back to the of his nine three-pont attempts rhythm and knocked down some the Chicago Blackhawks Wild, who had won two games puck in the left circle. nifty play by Parise. neutral zone while Coyle had and pulling down fi ve rebounds. shots.” snapped an eight-game in a row and returned home for Hjalmarsson lost the puck, Charlie Coyle entered the the puck near the blue line. Korver needed fi ve three- Down by six at half-time, Jregular-season losing streak the fi rst time since Jan. which slid past Kuemper right zone and sent the puck toward After more than six minutes, pointers to pass Jason Kidd (1,988 Cleveland broke open the game against the Minnesota Wild 26. Kuemper made 28 saves. to Panik. Parise at the goal, Parise tipped the league determined the re- three-pointers ) for seventh on by outscoring Indiana 40-18 in with a 4-3 victory. Minnesota tied the game Panik scored his 12th of the the puck purposely between view was inconclusive and the the NBA’s all-time list, which he the third quarter. Toews, who added two as- with 3:03 remaining when de- season from the side of the goal his legs and then turned to col- original call on the ice stood to reached in the third quarter. The Cavaliers drained 13 of sists, tapped home a rebound fenseman Marco Scandella car- to regain the lead for Chicago lect the rebound after Crawford tie the game. Chicago got the “It just means I’ve been do- their 20 attempts and all 10 of between Minnesota goaltender ried the puck all the way up the after Minnesota’s fl urry tied the made the initial save. scoring started with the only ing this a long time,” said Korver, their free throws in the third pe- Darcy Kuemper’s legs to send ice and then went to the left of game. Parise shot quick for his goal in the fi rst. who now has 1,992 three-point- riod. Chicago to its third straight Crawford. Schmaltz scored his fourth 11th goal of the season, but the Ryan Hartman one-timed a ers in his 14-year career. “When The Pacers closed the defi cit win. Scandella’s centering pass of the season 69 seconds into Blackhawks challenged wheth- centering pass from Vinnie Hi- I came into the NBA I didn’t have to 114-107 with 4:23 to play, but Ryan Hartman, Nick was tipped home by Haula to set the second period but the Wild er Parise was off side. nostroza for his 13th goal. goals like this. I just try to be would get no closer. Gulf Times 6 Friday, February 10, 2017 SPORT

GOLF SKIING Stuhec again tops downhill I’ll never ‘feel great’ training

AFP St. Moritz, Switzerland

lovenia’s Ilka Stuhec topped women’s down- again, says Woods hill training for a second successive day at the world championships in St Moritz yesterday. As teams settled on fi nal picks for the week- ‘There were a lot of times I didn’t think I was going to make it back. It was tough, it was more than brutal’ Send’s downhill races, in-form Austrian Vincent Kre- ichmayr headed times for men’s training before it was cancelled due to fog. Stuhec, who leads the World Cup AFP downhill standings and has won fi ve races this season Dubai including three downhills and a super-G, clocked 1min 33.37sec, a second quicker than her winning time on Wednesday. iger Woods has admitted Switzerland’s Fabienne Suter was again second, the combined toll of mul- with Austrian Christine Scheyer in third. tiple operations on his bat- American speed queen Lindsey Vonn, who has tar- tered body means he doesn’t geted her favoured downhill on Sunday after skiing out Tthink he “will ever feel great” again. of the super-G, was in fourth and confi rmed she would But the former world number also compete in Friday’s alpine combined. one said he hoped to be able to “It was solid,” Vonn said of her run. “Yesterday I was compete for titles and majors in the just checking things out, the light was a little bit fl at future, in an interview for Dubai when I ran so I didn’t really push it and slowed myself magazine Vision. down in a couple places. “I feel good, but not great,” said “Today I skied a much more solid and clean run, I Woods, 41. “Granted, I don’t think defi nitely still have a couple more gears in me which I’ll ever feel great because it’s three I’m saving for tomorrow and also for Sunday.” back surgeries, four knee opera- Vonn, making a comeback from a broken humerus tions.” in November, added: “I like this track, it’s fun and fast, The 14-time major-winner re- there’s lots of really fun terrain, the jumps are big, I’m turned from a 16-month injury lay- building my confi dence every day. Things look positive off in December and has slumped to for the races.” 674 in the world rankings. One of the consequences from that broken arm- “I am always going to be a little bone is a lack of grip for Vonn, who lost her pole in the bit sore, it’s just the way it is. But as super-G and has now taken to taping her hand to the long as I can function and function pole. at a good enough level then I’m fi ne with that,” he said. Duct tape and old-school gloves Woods made an ill-fated attempt “Yesterday I taped my hand and today I taped it,” she to play in the European Tour’s Du- said, adding that she had taken to wearing “old-school bai Desert Classic last week, pull- thin downhill gloves”. ing out with back spasms after a “It helped getting a better grip on the pole and hav- birdie-free fi rst-round 77 left him ing a little bit of a better feel for it. It’s going to help, 13 shots off the lead. hopefully I can focus on racing and not whether the Woods had missed the cut a pole’s in my hand!” week earlier at his fi rst US PGA tour Switzerland’s Lara Gut, bronze medallist in the event of the year at Torrey Pines. super-G, was happy with her eighth place down the He is entered for next week’s 2.6km-long Engiadina course. “It was nice,” she said. tournament at Riviera as he tries “It’s getting easier every day to ski so you can’t make to recover form and fi tness before mistakes, you have to ski clean. It’s what we like: sun- a tilt at the season’s fi rst major, the shine and lots of people coming up, so I’ll try to do my Masters in Augusta in early April. best and enjoy my runs.” “The whole plan was to get my Kreichmayr had dominated men’s training, clock- body, mind and spirit ready for that ing 1min 40.31sec down the 2.7km long Corviglia piste. fi rst full week in April,” said the 14- His fi nishing time, thanks to him reaching speeds of up time major winner. “You know, I’ve to 117kph, was a massive 1.30sec ahead of Swiss speed done it (won at Augusta) four times specialist Beat Feuz. and I’d love to do it a fi fth.” But it counted for nothing after training was can- Woods said he would carry on as celled after 24 runners as fog drifted across the En- long as he felt capable of winning, gadina valley. Canada’s surprise super-G winner Erik after a painful rehabilitation. Guay was 1.41sec off Kreichmayr’s pace. “There were a lot of times I Furyk adjusts selection criteria for US Ryder Cup team “It’s always fun to be back on the slope,” Guay said. didn’t think I was going to make “Today I couldn’t bring that intensity that I had yes- it back. It was tough, it was more US Ryder Cup captain Jim Furyk said he wants ments... winning a PGA Tour event with a strong terday. It was diffi cult for me actually. than brutal,” he said. winners on the American squad to take on field, to me, is more important than finishing “But it was a solid run, no major mistakes. Woods, who has not won since Europe in the match play showdown in France third at a major championship.” “I’ll have to take a look at the video, Vincent Kre- 2013 and whose last major victory in 2018, and has tweaked the selection process Furyk was named Ryder Cup captain last month, ichmayr was incredibly fast. I’m excited and looking came in 2008, said golf was becom- accordingly. succeeding Davis Love, who guided the United forward to Saturday.” ing a diff erent game with the power The PGA of America and Furyk, speaking at the States to a 17-11 rout of Europe at Hazeltine in of the “kids” dominating the world Pebble Beach National Pro-Am in California, Minnesota last year. In the September 2018 rankings, such as Jason Day, Jordan announced minor adjustments to the selec- matches at Le Golf National in Paris, he and his Spieth and Rory McIlroy. tion criteria to give PGA Tour victories greater team will be out to end a lengthy drought on “This is the changing of the weight and top-10 finishes in major champion- foreign soil, where the Americans haven’t won guard. All these guys can move it,” ships slightly less. The process will still see eight since 1993. In part because of the added compli- he said. “It wasn’t important to hit players qualify directly for the team based on cation of travelling abroad, Furyk said the dead- the ball hard, it was more impor- points earned at events this year and next. line for his four captain’s picks would be earlier. tant to hit the ball fl ush, but now But now only the major winners will receive two He will name three of the four after the second these kids tee it up and just go after points per $1,000 earned in those events. Those US PGA Tour playoff event in Boston, and make it.” who make the cut at the majors will receive 1 1/2 his final selection after the BMW Champion- But he still believes he can win points per $1,000 earned. ship, rather than the Tour Championship playoff again. “My generation is getting “If you finished third in a major championship, finale. “It’s obvious that we can’t wait until after older, but if I’m teeing up the goal’s you earned more points than a winner in a PGA the Tour Championship to make a pick,” Furyk to win it,” said Woods. Tour event,” Furyk said. said. “We have passports, travel to Europe, and “That doesn’t change if I’m in- “And I really value winning. I want the guys that I feel like the timing, we probably want to get jured, coming off an injury, playing hit shots down the stretch, that have the guts, it done a little earlier and not put those guys Ilka Stuhec of Slovenia in action on the second day well or I’m playing poorly. If I’m in the fortitude, the game to win golf tourna- through that at the Tour Championship again.” of the women’s downhill training at St Moritz the event, it’s to win the event.” yesterday. (Reuters)

MAYBANK CHAMPIONSHIP Willett shoots 66, three back in Malaysia

AFP der for the fi rst nine holes. Once the wind Kuala Lumpur picked up on the back nine it was just a case of staying solid and hitting the greens,” said Warren. eigning US Masters champion Phachara, whose name means diamond Danny Willett shot a six-under- in Thai, could not believe he managed a par 66 for his best round this 65, thanks to eight birdies. “I didn’t think year to lie three strokes behind I could shoot seven under. This course is Scotland’sR Marc Warren at the Maybank a tough course. One or two under would Championship in Malaysia yesterday. be good and if I can make the cut, I’ll be Willett was tied third with fi ve others happy,” said the 17-year-old. on the leaderboard including Malaysia’s Arie Irawan and American Peter Uihlein, Leading first-round scores while Thai teenager Phachara Khongwat- 63—Marc Warren (SCO) mai came in second place, two shots be- 65—Phachara Khongwatmai (THA) hind Warren. 66—Danny Willett (ENG), Arie Irawan Willett started the year by missing out (MAS), Peter Uihlein (USA), Marcel Siem on the Abu Dhabi Championship cut and (GER), Sam Brazel (AUS), Gaganjeet fi nished a lowly 54th at the Dubai Desert Bhullar (IND) Classic which he had won in 2016. 67-Lee Soomin (KOR), Lasse Jensen “It was good, it’s always nice to get out (DEN) early when you’re in Malaysia,” said Wil- 68-Richard T. Lee (CAN), Shubhankar lett, ranked number 15 in the world. Sharma (IND), Romain Wattel (FRA), “It was still roasting hot this morning Gavin Green (MAS), K.T. Kim (KOR), Rob- but the wind stays calm for the fi rst hour ert Karlsson (SWE), David Lipsky (USA), or so and allows you to get some shots in Niall Turner (IRE), there nice and close. The wind picked up 69-Nino Bertasio (ITA), Bernd Wiesberger a bit towards the end and it plays a little (AUT), Wei-chih Lu (TPE), Alexander Levy trickier around here.” (FRA), Renato Paratore (ITA), Thitiphun Warren was on fi re despite the swelter- Chuayprakong (THA), Gregory Havret ing heat and humidity at Kuala Lumpur’s (FRA), Shih-chang Chan (TPE), Prom Saujana Golf & Country Club, dropping in Meesawat (THA), Anirban Lahiri (IND), seven birdies and an eagle for a 63. Lucas Bjerregaard (DEN), Siddikur Rah- Danny Willett of England plays a shot during the first round of the 2017 Maybank Malaysia Championship at Saujana Golf and Country Club in Subang, outside “I got off to a really nice start, six un- man (BAN). Kuala Lumpur. (AFP) Gulf Times Friday, February 10, 2017 7 SPORT

ATHLETICS Bolt’s Nitro show runs into controversy

AFP “I don’t know what happened,” the I feel,” he said. Melbourne world record holder at 100m and 200m “I’m just trying to enjoy my last sea- said. “I’ve got to talk to the organisers son. I’m not trying to overthink any- and fi gure it out, but I’m sure we won thing or try to stress myself. I’m always sain Bolt led his All-Stars to the night.” going to try to do my best.” victory in the second Nitro In a bid to sell the concept globally, China won three events on the night team athletics event yesterday Bolt is fronting the All-Stars — includ- and fi nished third on the points table but it was mired in controversy ing athletes from Jamaica, the US and with 855, just ahead of England on 850. Uwith Australia docked points. Kenya — against teams representing New Zealand won two events and Needing only to take the baton Australia, England, New Zealand, Japan fi nished fi fth overall with 845 points. around the track in the mixed 4x100m and China in the inaugural three-night The Bolt All-Stars also scored a nar- relay, Australia blew their chance to top event. row 30-point victory over Australia last the night in the fi nale of the new con- The All-Stars won last Saturday Saturday, 1080 to 1050. cept at Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium. and after a slow start yesterday came Nitro Athletics involves a mixture Jack Hale and Fabrice Lapierre through again. of traditional and modifi ed events, in- botched the handover from second to “I don’t like the fact that we’re leav- cluding mixed gender relays and an third leg and Australia were disquali- ing it that late,” the Jamaican sprinter elimination mile, designed to pro- fi ed. After some initial confusion, Aus- said. vide non-stop action over a two-hour tralia was given a score of -10, rather The 30-year-old eight-time Olym- period. than the 40 points teams receive for pic gold medallist suggested he might Twelve events are contested each fi nishing sixth. compete in more than one event in the night, with points awarded for each As a result, the Bolt All-Stars — who fi nal of the series this Saturday. placing, from 100 points to the winning won the race with Bolt running the “I think a few of the guys will have team down to 40 for the sixth-place third leg — fi nished with 930 points to to double up on Saturday. I’ll probably fi nisher. Australia’s 895. Bolt, the world’s fast- have to double up.” The series will be decided on ladder est man, told reporters he was initially But Bolt said he was feeling good points, with six awarded to the winner under the impression Australia had about his own form, despite never hav- of each meet, and Saturday’s fi nal of- received 40 points for fi nishing last, ing run competitively before at this fering double points. The All-Stars sit regardless of their indiscretion, and time of year. on 12 points with Australia on 10 after vowed to protest. “I felt good. I came down here to get a two second placings. Should Australia But meet offi cials reviewed the de- few runs in. I’m not in the best of shape win on Saturday and the All-Stars fi n- cision and ruled that a disqualifi cation — I’m just trying to run myself into ish second, both teams will fi nish with a Jamaica’s Olympic champion Usain Bolt poses with performers during the second night of the Nitro Athletics series at the was appropriate. shape — and the more I run the better total of 22 points. Lakeside Stadium in Melbourne yesterday. (Reuters)

RUGBY WORLD BIATHLON CHAMPIONSHIPS Police in doping raid on Kazak team Jones backs England AFP petrol station in Western Ty- Hochfilzen, Austria rol in January in which a vast quantity of what appeared to be medical waste supplied were ustrian police raided unloaded from a package by the Kazak team hotel occupants of several minibuses at the World Biathlon and handed to an individual. Championships and The consignment seized by trio to shine against seizedA doping-related materi- investigators contained used als, investigators said yesterday. syringes, sprays, injection vi- Medical products, medicines als, written notes and other and portable telephones were materials including accredita- seized in the raid by 30 police tion documents for biathlon late Wednesday. The champi- events, police said. onships started yesterday in The equipment was passed Hochfi lzen with the mixed relay on to the Austrian National Welsh back-row in which a Kazak team took part. Anti-Doping Agency, which Police spokesman Vincent concluded they belonged to Kriegs said investigators are the Kazak team. The Innsbruck ‘We have a nice blend of experience and youth and we feel we have got the balance right’ probing potential breaches of prosecution service issued a Austrian anti-doping legisla- warrant for the raid on the Ka- tion as well as sports fraud by zak hotel. The announcement AFP the team. The raid followed came after the International London the seizure of material from a Biathlon Union said Kazak ath- van near the frontier that was letes had undergone blood and found to belong to the Kazak urine tests for doping. ngland coach Eddie team, police added. Already this week, the IBU Jones has backed his Biathlon is already un- stripped Russia of the right to novice loose forward trio der a cloud over doping fol- host the 2021 Biathlon World to come good against lowing revelation in Richard Championships following anE experienced Wales back- McLaren’s report on Russian McLaren report revelations row when his record-breaking doping and the decision to strip concerning 31 cases of doping Grand Slam champions resume Russia of hosting rights for the involving Russian biathletes. their Six Nations title defence in next World championships. The IBU will reattribute the Cardiff tomorrow. Kazakhstan has also faced hosting rights at its 2018 con- The Australian has brought multiple doping accusations gress. The Russian Biathlon in Jack Cliff ord, fi t following though it has denied any prob- Union pulled out of hosting the a chest injury, into a back row lem. Three Kazakh weight- 2017 junior world champion- featuring No 8 Nathan Hughes lifters were last year stripped ships and a World Cup event and blindside fl anker Maro Itoje, of gold medals won the at the of its own accord, explaining it best known as a lock. London Olympics. Its cycling wished to end suspicions and Seasoned fl anker Tom Wood, has also seen repeat doping rumours. who has been recovering from cases and other sports remain Yesterday Germany won the a shoulder injury, was dropped under suspicion. fi rst gold of the championships to the bench in the matchday 23 “Yesterday, the federal po- storming to victory in the mixed announced by Jones on Thurs- lice checked all the athletes relay ahead of France in second day after struggling in England’s rooms,” Manas Ussenov, the with Russia coming third. scrappy 19-16 tournament- Kazak biathlon federation sec- opening win against France at retary, told AFP. “They found Twickenham last weekend. in the room of our doctor some But Wood has 46 caps while medicine. But according to our Hughes, Cliff ord and Itoje have doctor, we have all the docu- a mere four Test back-row starts mentation for these medicines. between them. We are not worried. We are just Nevertheless, Jones said: “We waiting for the results of the have a nice blend of experience investigations.” Germany’s Laura Dahlmeier, and youth and we feel we have The raid came after a wit- Vanessa Hinz, Arnd Peiff er and got the balance right. We think ness tipped off police about a Simon Schempp celebrate after he (Cliff ord) is a really good play- suspicious rendez-vous at a winning mixed relay race. (AFP) er and he will give us a bit more pace in the back row. It’s a great England head coach Eddie Jones and Dylan Hartley during a press conference yesterday. (Reuters) opportunity for him. “Nathan Hughes has been enham in May, a match in which France. This week has seen Jones Tuipulotu cleared of doping : NZ Rugby playing well. Itoje is a young guy the 23-year-old scored a try. trying to explain why England Italy make four changes for Ireland learning the ropes and there is The only other change to are “petrifi ed” of playing Wales All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu has been cleared of doping no better way to learn the ropes England’s starting side saw Jack in Cardiff , even though the Italy made four changes to their team for the Six Nations match and a provisional suspension lifted, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) than in matches like these.” Nowell, who helped set up the record in the Six Nations era is against Ireland in Rome tomorrow, with lock Andries Van Schalk- said yesterday. Tuipulotu was sent home from the All Blacks’ In marked contrast, the Wales match-clinching try for fellow four wins apiece. wyk and flanker Simone Favaro, who were left out of the opener end of season tour last November after testing positive for an back-row of Ross Moriarty, replacement Ben Te’o after com- “Playing Wales in Cardiff against Wales, set to return to the starting lineup. Coach Conor unspecified banned substance. The team said at the time he had former captain Sam Warburton ing off the bench against France, is one of the biggest games in O’Shea, whose team were trounced 33-7 by Wales in Rome on departed for “personal reasons”. NZR confirmed on Sunday after and Justin Tipuric in the team brought in at right wing. world rugby and we’re excited,” Sunday, will also start Angelo Esposito on the right wing with Giulio a local media report said the 24-year-old had tested positive for announced by interim coach Rob Nowell has replaced Jonny the former Australia and Japan Bisegni dropping out of the matchday squad. “I’m sure that this is a specified substance, but said on Thursday he had been cleared Howley yesterday have a com- May, like Wood now on the boss said. the right group to move towards the future but in order to change following testing of his ‘B’ sample by an accredited laboratory bined 130 Test appearances to bench, after his rival wing was Wales received a boost when mentality and improve we need to play, go through diff icult mo- in the United States. “The test result is negative and, as a result, their credit. sin-binned against France. wing Geoge North (thigh) and fl y- ments and positive moments, earn experience,” O’Shea, a former Patrick’s provisional suspension has been lifted with immediate Meanwhile British and Irish “He (Nowell) off ers a bit more half Dan Biggar (ribs) were both Ireland fullback, told the Italian rugby federation website (www. eff ect,” NZR said in the statement. “He is now cleared to return to Lions No 8 Taulupe Faletau is on workrate,” explained Jones. included in their starting XV after federugby.it) yesterday. “I know that in the next two or three years rugby immediately. “World Rugby have been informed and has the Wales bench as he returns “Wales traditionally like to keep they each suff ered injuries against someone will laugh at and will not agree with me, but we’ll become confirmed it will not be taking the matter any further.” from a knee injury after playing the ball in play. They are not Italy. a really eff ective squad.” Leonardo Ghiraldini returns at hooker in New Zealand Rugby Players Association chief executive Rob no part in Sunday’s 33-7 victory a side to go around due to the Interim coach Rob Howley, in place of Ornel Gega and will partner Andrea Lovotti and veteran Nichol said they were trying to determine why there was a over Italy in Rome. Injuries mean way they defend. You have to go charge while Warren Gatland is Lorenzo Cittadini in the front row. Maxime Mbanda, who came on discrepancy between the ‘A’ and ‘B’ samples tested by the Sports England are currently missing through them which suits Jack.” seconded to the British and Irish as openside flanker for Simone Favaro against Wales, will start on Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory (SMRTL) in Salt Lake fi rst-choice No 8 Billy Vuni- England are on a national Lions, has changed his props the blindside against Ireland, leaving Abraham Steyn on the bench. City. “This is a matter that SMRTL is investigating and we look pola and blindside fl anker Chris record 15-match winning streak, with Rob Evans and Tomas Fran- Italy team: Edoardo Padovani, Angelo Esposito, Tommaso Benve- forward to their feedback,” Nichol said. “Working with Patrick Robshaw, with former England just three shy of world cham- cis replacing Nicky Smith and nuti, Luke Mclean, Giovanbattista Venditti, Carlo Canna, Edoardo through the process, we always felt confident that he would be captain Robshaw — who plays pions New Zealand’s all-time Samson Lee after impressing off Gori, Sergio Parisse, Simone Favaro, Maxime Mbanda, Andries Van cleared. At least people now know Patrick did nothing wrong.” alongside Cliff ord at London record of 18 successive Test the bench in Rome. Schalkwyk, Marco Fuser, Lorenzo Cittadini, Leonardo Ghiraldini, Tuipulotu, who said on Sunday he had been ‘shocked’ by the posi- club Harlequins — set to miss the victories by a tier-one nation. “Both Rob (Evans) and Tomas Andrea Lovotti. tive doping result was pleased to have been cleared. “I’m pleased whole of the Six Nations with a Jones, in charge for 14 matches (Francis) made a big impact off Replacements: Ornel Gega, Sami Panico, Dario Chistolini, George the matter is now closed, with my reputation and integrity intact, shoulder injury. in England’s winning streak, the bench last weekend and de- Biagi, Abraham Steyn, Giorgio Bronzini, Tommaso Allan, Michele and I look forward to getting back into training and an exciting Cliff ord’s lone Test start came in blamed himself for England’s serve their opportunity to start,” Campagnaro. year of rugby,” Tuipulotu said. a 27-13 win over Wales at Twick- “awful” performance against said Howley.

Friday, February 10, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING Notalot takes Marmi Cup for his fi rst win in Qatar Trainers Ibrahim al-Malki and Mohamed Jassim Ghazali register two victories each

Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) deputy chairman Hamad bin Abdulrahman al-Attiyah, general manager Nasser Sherida al-Kaabi, Ali bin Khatem al-Mehshadi and other off icials at the QREC after Notalot won the Marmi Cup yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim Gerald Avranche rides Al Jasra Stud’s Notalot to victory in the Marmi Cup at the QREC yesterday.

By Sports Reporter jockey Bentley riding Hope Cove to vic- one-two for trainer Mohamed Jassim trained She’ris to the third spot. etan Faucon riding the Alban de Mieulle- 1 1/4, 6. Owner: Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad Doha tory on the gelding’s debut in Qatar. Ghazali in the Class 5 Thoroughbred Al Uraiq Secret was in a league of trained fi lly to a victory in the Local bin Jassim al-Thani. Trainer: Ibrahim Sheail bin Khalifa al-Kuwari-owned Handicap event for horses rated 61-75. his own when, under Pedroza, the colt Purebred Arabian Maiden Plate event. al-Malki. Hope Cove, who moved to Qatar from Bentley rode the fi lly to her fi rst vic- sprinted away with a commanding Race 5: 1. Ventura Shadow (Harry Bent- l Jasra Stud’s Notalot held on the UK, won the penultimate race of tory in Qatar. Ventura Shadow edged seven-length victory in the six-furlong RESULTS ley), 2. Town Crier (Pier Convertino), 3. well in the fi nal furlong to win the day — Class 3 Thoroughbred Hand- out stablemate Town Crier, ridden by sprint for four-year-olds. Race 1: 1. Al Fouz (Abdulla al-Marri), 2. Shaqran (Gerald Avranche), 4. Second Marmi Cup ahead of Please- icap event for four-year-old horses Pier Convertino, for the victory, while Wasim Mohammed’s Al Thakhira Comedy Night (Ali Khalid al-Mosallam), Life (Alberto Sanna). Won by: Shd, 2, Nk. letmewin on the dirt track at 76-90 — comfortably fi nishing ahead Khalid al-Nuaimi-schooled Shaqran, and Shahd Al Asal, trained by M Khalid 3. Yes We Can Dream (Yousef al-Hajri), 4. Owner: Injaaz Stud. Trainer: Mohamed theA Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club of Saleem Golam’s mount Shaka Zulu, helmed by Avranche, completed the al-Hamed, fi nished second and third Tijan (Rashid al-Marri). Won by: Nk, 3, 1 Jassim Ghazali. yesterday. trained by al-Malki. podium. respectively. 3/4. Owner: Khalifa bin Sheail al-Kuwari. Race 6: 1. Al Aayar (Alberto Sanna), 2. The feature saw Gerald Avranche ride Deborah Mountain’s Alizoom round- The owner-trainer-jockey trio of Younger Ghazali had a winner in the Trainer: Mohamed Jassim Ghazali. Kasser (Harry Bentley), 3. Sand Legend Notalot into the lead coming off Gate 8, ed up the top three under Faleh Bugha- Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad bin Jassim al- fi rst race of the day when Abdulla al- Race 2: 1. Al Rabiah (Gaetan Faucon), 2. (Gerald Avranche), 4. Shmoos (Xavier before Jassim Ghazali’s Ras Al Qimmah naim’s ride. Thani, al-Malki and Eduardo Pedroza Marri rode Khalifa bin Sheail al-Ku- Marjan (JP Guillambert), 3. Udai Al Wa- Ziani). Won by: Shd, 6, Hd. Owner: Dhafi upped the pace. Mohamed Hussain’s Al Aayar reg- registered two wins on the day with wari-owned Al Fouz to a narrow victory jba (Harry Bentley), 4. Twitter (Alberto al-Ardi al-Marri. Trainer: Mohamed However, coming off the final bend, istered his third win this season when Mowhoubat Al Zaidy and Al Uraiq Se- in the Class 5 Thoroughbred Handicap Sanna). Won by: 1 1/2, 2 1/2, 5. Owner: Hussain. Ras Al Qimmah weakened and Notalot Sanna guided the six-year-old to a cret winning the Purebred Arabian event for horses rated 61-75. Umm Qarn. Trainer: Alban de Mieulle. Race 7: 1. Hope Cove (Harry Bentley), 2. went up front yet again. Ras Al Qim- short head victory in the Purebred Ara- Plate and Local Thoroughbreds events All the 11 horses in the 1200m run Race 3: 1. Mowhoubat Al Zaidy (Edu- Shaka Zulu (Saleem Golam), 3. Alizoom mah’s stablemate Pleaseletmewin, rid- bian Handicap event for horses rated respectively. on dirt were ridden by Qatari jockeys, ardo Pedroza), 2. Al Marboush (Harry (Faleh Bughanaim), 4. Adham (Eduardo den by Harry Bentley, gave the Tariq 90 and below. In the third race of the day, Mowhou- given the fact that there was a bonus for Bentley), 3. She’ris (Alberto Sanna), 4. Pedroza). Won by: 2 1/2, Nk, 1/2. Owner: Issa trained gelding a chase but fi nished The grey son of AF Albahar edged out bat Al Zaidy edged out Mohamed Jas- the winning owner, trainer and jockey, Majdan (Faleh Bughanaim). Won by: Nk, Sheail bin Khalifa al-Kuwari. Trainer: a length behind in second spot. half-brother Kasser, ridden by Bentley sim Ghazali-schooled Al Marboush in in case a Qatari rode the winner. 1, 6. Owner: Sheikh Faisal bin Hamad Jassim Ghazali. Ibrahim al-Malki’s What A Surprise for trainer Mohamed al-Sheeb, at the a thriller. The win was the eight-year- Ali Khalid al-Mosallam and Yousef bin Jassim al-Thani. Trainer: Ibrahim Race 8: 1. Notalot (Gerald Avranche), 2. fi nished three lengths behind in third post, even as the rest of the competition old mare’s third this season, while Har- al-Hajri rode Comedy Night and Yes al-Malki. Pleaseletmewin (Harry Bentley), 3. What under Alberto Sanna’s ride. were left far behind in the 1200m run. ry Bentley guided Injaaz Stud-owned We Can Dream to second and third Race 4: 1. Al Uraiq Secret (Eduardo A Surprise (Alberto Sanna), 4. Perfect The win was Notalot’s fi rst in Qatar. Rabiah al-Kaabi’s ward Sand Legend Al Marboush to his second straight top place respectively. Pedroza), 2. Al Thakhira (Alberto San- Storm (Eduardo Pedroza). Won by: 1, 3, Champion Trainer Ghazali had only fi nished six lengths behind in third spot. three fi nish. Umm Qarn’s Al Rabiah shed her maid- na), 3. Shahd Al Asal (Darren Williams), 1/2. Owner: Al Jasra Stud. Trainer: Tariq one winner on the day with trusted Injaaz Stud’s Ventura Shadow led a Alberto Sanna helmed Julian Smart- en status on her second outing with Ga- 4. Reem Brooq (Xavier Ziani). Won by: 7, Issa.

TENNIS Murray warns Scotland-bound Federer off deep-fried Mars bar

AFP London

ndy Murray warned Roger Federer to avoid sampling the questionable delights of a “horrifi c” deep-fried Mars bar after the tennis great ac- ceptedA an invitation to play in Scotland for the fi rst time. Scottish star Murray will face Federer in a charity exhibition match in Glasgow on No- vember 7. Scotland is notorious for having one of the worst average diets in Europe, with the deep fried Mars bar — where the chocolate bar is Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark takes part in practice session ahead of Qatar Total Open at the Khalifa shoved into hot oil and coated with the kind International Tennis and Squash Complex in Doha yesterday. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil of batter more commonly seen covering fried fi sh — one of its most infamous dishes. SPOTLIGHT Murray and Federer may be rivals most of the time but that didn’t stop the 29-year-old from off ering his Swiss visitor some advice about the local ‘cuisine’. “Don’t try the fried Mars bars,” Murray Kuznetsova withdraws joked. “I tried one of them for the fi rst time last year and it was horrifi c. Stay away from them.” Federer won his 18th Grand Slam singles from Qatar Total Open title at last month’s Australian Open, beating old foe Rafael Nadal in a Melbourne fi nal few pundits had foreseen. By Sports Reporter to get back on the court as soon Murray, by contrast, suff ered a shock Doha as possible. Doha puts on an fourth round defeat at the hands of the unh- amazing event and I apologise eralded Mischa Zverev. to all the fans that I won’t be Federer’s success in Australia, at the rela- ussian world number joining this year, but I look for- tively advanced age, in tennis terms, of 35 eight Svetlana ward to coming back next year! came following a long spell out with injury ing forwards.” “It’s not just how much he’s won, but the Kuznetsova an- I extend my best wishes to the and a self-imposed break. Federer decided to take up Murray’s invita- way he plays and how he carries himself.” nounced her with- organisers.” And double Olympic champion Murray, 29, tion after the Scot took part in the Swiss ace’s Federer will be helping raise funds that will drawalR from the 2017 Qatar Qatar Total Open tournament said he might now reduce his schedule in a bid charity event in April. be shared equally between Unicef, the United Total Open due to an abdominal director Saad al-Mohannadi to prolong his career. Such is Federer’s global popularity that Nations’ children’s fund and an as yet un- injury. said, “We wish Svetlana Kuznet- “It’s incredible what he did in Australia af- sell-out-crowds at Glasgow’s 10,800-capac- named local Scottish charity. Making the announcement sova all the best as she recovers ter such a long break,” Murray, a three-time ity SSE Hydro are expected. “Last year was such a fantastic night and yesterday, the 2009 French from her injury. She will defi nite- Grand Slam-winner, said. “We play so much, “I saw a little video where he was wearing a to raise over £300,000 for Unicef and Young Open winner said, “I am sad to ly be missed in Doha this year but a lot of the year. Sometimes coming to events kilt when he was announcing that I was going People’s Futures (a Glasgow-based children’s announce that I am not able to we look forward to welcoming fresh can have some huge advantage. to play in his event over in Switzerland,” said charity) in our fi rst year was amazing,” said participate in the Qatar Total her at future events.” “Him and Rafa were both coming back Murray. “He’s returning the favour in No- Murray, a UK ambassador for Unicef. Open this year. I recently sus- The 2017 Qatar Total Open from a pretty signifi cant period of time out vember. It’s really good he’s doing it. “This year is going to be even bigger and tained a minor abdominal in- will be held from February 13-18 and they both played extremely well. Maybe “He’s just extremely popular. He’s one of better and I am so pleased to be able to bring jury. My doctors have advised at the Khalifa International Ten- that’s something we can all learn from mov- the best players that’s ever played the game. Roger to play in Scotland for the fi rst time.” me to rest so I can be prepared nis & Squash Complex in Doha.