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Saturday, May 4, 2019 FOOTBALL Sha’baan 29, 1440 AH Liverpool ‘ambitious GULF TIMES like hell’ for Premier League title: Klopp SPORT Page 2

ATHLETICS/DOHA DIAMOND LEAGUE Semenya steals the show with sensational Doha win ‘ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS. WHEN YOU’RE A GREAT CHAMPION YOU ALWAYS DELIVER’

Agencies Walking away with your head to move up to sixth on the world Doha held high is dignity.” Meanwhile, all-time list. Sweden’s Daniel Stahl produced Walsh, the Diamond League one of the fi nest discus series winner last year, reached 22.06m aster Semenya won the in history to highlight action on in the third round to secure the 800 metres at the Doha the fi eld infi eld at the Doha 2019 runner-up spot with South Diamond League meet- IAAF Diamond League. American record-holder Darlan ing yesterday in her fi rst In the most dominant display Romani third with 21.60m. Crace since losing her appeal over of the night, the 26-year-old Caterine Ibarguen, the 2018 a controversial gender ruling, put the competition out of reach Athlete of the Year and double claiming “actions speak louder in the fi rst round, throwing his Diamond Trophy winner, picked than words”. discus 69.63m through the Doha up where she left off last season, The South African, a two- night sky to break the meeting taking a victory in the long jump time Olympic champion, timed record set by Virgilijus Alekna in by two centimetres. 1min 54.98sec to defeat Burun- 2006. But he was just shaking off Brooke Stratton of Australia di’s Francine Niyonsaba, who the rust. took command with a 6.73m clocked 1min 57.75sec and Ajee Stahl followed up with throws leap in round two, but was over- Wilson of the United States in of 70.49m and 70.56m, his far- taken in the fi fth round when 1min 58.83sec. thest of the night, before cap- the competition sprung to life. Semenya’s victory could be ping the evening with eff orts of Ibarguen reached 6.76m to take her last over 800m before new 69.54m, 69.50m and 70.32m to the lead and seal the win ahead IAAF rules governing testoster- become the fi rst man to produce of Ukraine’s Maryna Bekh-Ro- one levels come into operation six throws beyond 69.50m in a manchuk, the runner-up at last on May 8. single competition. year’s European Championships, “Actions speak louder than “I’ve been working a lot on my who leaped 6.74m. words. When you’re a great technique and training hard in Ibarguen’s assessment of champion you always deliver,” the gym so I expected this,” said her fi rst competition in seven Semenya told the BBC after set- the world and European silver months? ting a new meeting record. medallist. “It was a great atmos- “It was a good series of jumps “With me, life has been sim- phere.” but three fouls is not great,” the ple. I’m just here to deliver for Lukas Weisshaidinger was Colombian said. She’s hoping to the people who love and support second with 66.90m with Eh- remedy that in her next competi- me. I’m enjoying each and every san Hadadi of Iran, who took the tion, which is set for Rome. moment of my life maybe be- Asian title here two weeks ago, Extraordinarily for a home cause I have the love I need from third with 66.78m. meet, none of the Qatari trio of my people.” For the 10th consecutive year, Mutaz Barshim, Abderrehman Asked if she intended to take the Doha meeting kicked off the Samba or Abdelelah Haroun the medication required to lower IAAF Diamond League, a series were able to compete because her testosterone levels, she later of the 14 fi nest one-day athletics their disciplines were not sched- told reporters with a smile: “Hell South Africa’s Caster Semenya celebrates after winning the women’s 800m during the IAAF Doha Diamond League at the Khalifa competitions on the planet, and uled in Doha. no, that’s an illegal method.” International Stadium yesterday. with it, the season-long chase It’s another matter though Semenya, 28, was only added for a slice of the US$8mn Dia- that world high jump champion to the 800m start list in Doha mond League prize pot. Athletes Barshim is still recovering from on Thursday morning, a day af- earn points in the fi rst 12 stops his ankle injury. Haroun’s pet ter her appeal against a new rule to earn qualifi cation for the two 400m event and Samba’s 400m regulating testosterone levels fi nal winner-takes-all meetings hurdles were also not part of the for women athletes was rejected to be held in Zurich (29 Aug) and programme yesterday. by the Court of Arbitration for Brussels (6 Sep). Qatar’s newly-crowned Asian Sport (CAS). In shot put, the assemblage champion Abubaker Hayder Ab- She had challenged the meas- of talent was the deepest of the dalla fi nished a creditable fourth ures, introduced by the IAAF, evening. There, the proceed- in the 800m in a race won by Bot- that will force women with high- ings went largely according to swana’s Nijel Amos in 1min44.29 er than normal male hormone the early season form book with seconds. levels — so-called “hyperandro- world leader Ryan Crouser pre- Kenya’s Emmanuel Korir was genic” athletes — to artifi cially vailing in a tight battle with second, while USA’s Donovan lower the amount of testosterone world champion Tom Walsh. Brazier fi nished third. in their bodies if they are to con- After a modest 20.06m eff ort Abubaker, who had clocked a tinue competing. in the opening round, Crouser world-leading time of 1:44.43 The rules will come into ef- unleashed a 22.13m toss in the during the Asian Athletics fect on May 8 and will apply to second, a mark that held out for Championships last month in athletes competing in races over the win. Doha, could only manage 1:44.82 distances of 400m to the mile. “I really felt the eff ects of 20 yesterday. Semenya hinted at quitting the hours of travel, so I’m really glad “It was a great experience run- sport in a tweet Thursday, saying: that the 22.13m held out for the ning with some of the greatest “Knowing when to walk away is Sweden’s Daniel Stahl in action during the men’s discus throw yesterday. He became the first Turkey’s Ramil Guliyev poses after winning win,” said Crouser, who pro- athletes over the distance,” said wisdom. Being able to is courage. man to produce six throws beyond 69.50m in a single competition. the 200m. duced a 22.74m blast on 20 April Abubaker.

BOTTOMLINE Aspiring Qatari athletes set sights on the track

AFP danese mother, the 17-year-old Qa- Guliyev and Aaron Brown, although And even though Barrow admits ering in a number of reforms for la- 2012 Olympic bronze medallist and Doha tari citizen is a product of Aspire he finished last. running under the heat in Doha can bour rights as it builds stadiums to current World Champion, also re- Academy, the training centre which Barrow moved to Doha from Lon- be challenging, he is used to it. Plus accommodate teams — and fans — ceived some training at Aspire. grabbed global headlines after Qatar don with his family in 2007, when he “it’s very good for the muscles!” he from around the world. Young Barrow, for his part, hopes itting on the side of the track won the Asian Cup football tourna- was just 6 years old. says Lee Christopher, who coaches And while the country also been to make his “real” debut in the big of newly renovated Khalifa in- ment earlier this year. Back then, he dreamt of playing sprinters and hurdlers at Aspire, says accused of “buying athletes” to com- league at the September World Ath- ternational stadium, Owaab Most of the Qatari national football football. But with long waiting lists the Diamond League and the World pete under the Qatari flag, experts say letics Championship, hosted by Qatar Barrow ties his white running team players were once Aspire train- at top training schools, he said he was Athletics Championship in Septem- things have begun to change over the — a country he does not hesitate to shoesS for his last training session be- ees. “tricked” into athletics at Aspire, his ber will give momentum to athletics past decade. call “home”. fore his very fi rst Diamond League. And in a country focused on host- eyes sparkling as he grinned. beyond football. “Now we are seeing the golden age “I’m actually very excited as this is While the heat in the Qatari capi- ing the 2022 World Cup, the Aspire “They were supposed to switch me “Not everything is about football in of athletics in Qatar with the coun- my first time competing for the Doha tal is creeping up towards 40 de- Academy has not forgotten the track. to the football programme later on,” Qatar,” said Christopher, adding that try producing champions like Mutaz Diamond League,” said Barrow. grees, it’s a comfortable 26 degrees Barrow, the 2018 Junior Olym- Barrow told AFP. he hoped the public would turn up in Ezza Barshim...,” said Tom Crick, “I live here, and it’s going to be a on the track, located inside a stadium pic 110 metre hurdles champion, ran But that day never came, and great numbers at both events. head coach for track and field at As- very nice experience. And it will also equipped with a new cooling system. the 200 metres against some of the Owaab grew to love running on the Qatar has faced criticism in the pire Academy. set me up for the World Champion- Born to a British father and Su- world’s best athletes, including Ramil tracks. run-up to the 2022 World Cup, ush- Barshim, a world class high jumper, ship in September.” Gulf Times 2 Saturday, May 4, 2019 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT PREMIER LEAGUE United’s Solsjkaer Liverpool ‘ambitious to stick with struggling De Gea AFP performances he has put in over Manchester, United Kingdom the past few years, David has got all my confi dence.” like hell’ for Premier Meanwhile Solskjaer ac- anchester United knowledged United’s goalscoring manager Ole Gun- record had to improve if they are nar Solsjkaer has stand any chance of climbing the insisted that David table before the season draws to a Mde Gea will retain his place for close. Marcus Rashford has gone tomorrow’s trip to Huddersfi eld six games without scoring, while League title: Klopp despite the goalkeeper’s recent fellow forward Romelu Lukaku errors. Solskjaer said yesterday has not found the net in eight that the Spain international has matches. But he said the quality Manager expects a tough game against Newcastle, who are safe from relegation been “fantastic” for United this of United’s performances has not season, even though he has not dipped as much as suggested by kept a clean sheet for 13 matches. a recent run of just two wins in Sergio Romero, De Gea’s their past 10 matches in all com- deputy, is not available for the petitions. “We haven’t scored Huddersfi eld match after suff er- enough of the chances we have ing a knee injury in training on created, but that happens,” Sol- Thursday. A De Gea mistake led skjaer, who replaced he sacked to the goal that allowed Chelsea Jose Mourinho earlier this sea- to gain a 1-1 draw at Old Traff ord son, said. last Sunday, with the goalkeeper “At the beginning, when I spilling Antonio Rudiger’s shot, came in, we were more effi cient giving Marcos Alonso the chance in terms of scoring chances cre- to score with the rebound. ated. And the other side of it Failure to win that match was that David was unbeliev- has severely damaged United’s able at the other end, and when chances of securing the top- we had a few chances against us four fi nish they need to qualify at the other end, we didn’t con- for next season’s Champions cede goals. Now that has maybe League; they are currently in changed for us a bit. The mar- sixth position, three points be- gins and details are maybe go- hind fourth-placed Chelsea with ing against us. We need to look two games to play. “He will play,” behind the results,” Solskjaer Solskjaer said of De Gea. “Sergio insisted. was injured yesterday and didn’t “It’s not been so up and down. train. David’s been training well As a team and as a striker, you’re this week and he will play.” always facing the little margins Solskjaer, a former United there,” the former forward ex- striker, gave De Gea a vote of plained. We’ve been working on confi dence by adding: “Of course creating chances and scoring.” I trust him. He has been fantas- France forward Anthony Mar- tic this season. Towards the end tial has also gone six games with- of the season, he’s been in head- out scoring, and has faced criti- lines for the wrong reasons but cism for his performances since he has to deal with that. The he signed a fi ve-year contract in goalkeeping department are a January. But Solskjaer said: “An- fantastic group. They are such a thony has got goals in him. He’s tight-knit group. They have ex- got loads of goals in him. It’s up Liverpool travel to face the St James’ Park side managed by former Reds boss Rafael Benitez a point behind leaders Manchester City with two matches to go. (AFP) perienced better times than just to us to move it forward and get now but David is ready for Sun- that into him again. I’m sure we AFP can win it, you don’t get tired, that’s how game obviously, but it’s not new for us.” League football, but so too could seventh day. David’s confi dent, and he is will see him scoring goals for London it is. We are ambitious like hell. We want Klopp revealed however that Naby if City beat Watford in the FA Cup fi nal looking forward to the next few Manchester United in the fu- to (win) but we still know it’s not 100% in Keita would miss the rest of the season next month. games. He wants to prove what ture... We’ve got loads of goals in our hands but the only thing we can do is with an adductor injury that is set to Wolves are in the driving seat to be the a good goalkeeper he is. With the our team.” urgen Klopp says his Liverpool to beat Newcastle and that is unbeliev- sideline the Guinea international mid- best of the rest outside the top six in their players are “ambitious like hell” ably diffi cult.” fi elder for around eight weeks, putting fi rst season back in the top fl ight with 54 to win the Premier League, back- Klopp reiterated that a mature away his participation in the Africa Cup of Na- points, three ahead of Leicester and four ing them to bounce back from their performance in the Champions League tions in jeopardy. Keita limped off mid- clear of Everton and Watford. Relegation thumpingJ at Barcelona and keep the title was not refl ected in the 3-0 scoreline at way through the fi rst half in Barcelona. Fulham and Huddersfi eld have already race alive against Newcastle. Liverpool Camp Nou. And he insisted that his play- “Bad news, he has a high-grade adductor fallen through the relegation trap door travel to face the St James’ Park side man- ers were in a positive mood and had the injury,” said Klopp. “The tendon is rup- and Cardiff could join them this weekend. aged by former Reds boss Rafael Benitez mental strength to recover as they look tured, which keeps him out for at least Neil Warnock’s side are on 31 points, a point behind Premier League leaders to win Liverpool’s fi rst English title of the two months. Bad news for us obviously, four adrift of Brighton in 17th spot and Manchester City with two matches to go. Premier League since 1990. but bad news for Guinea as well because with a signifi cantly poorer goal diff er- Victory today would see Liverpool go “It’s no problem, of course we have to the Africa Cup of Nations is coming up.” ence. However, the Seagulls have to face back to the top of the table and ramp up prove it again tomorrow, but we didn’t The race for the remaining two slots Arsenal and Manchester City in their fi nal the pressure on City ahead of the reigning have to pick up players in Barcelona and in the Premier League top four, which two games, off ering Warnock hope. champions’ home match against Leices- give them a hug,” he said. “It doesn’t hap- gives entry to next season’s Champions ter on Monday. The German manager told pen too often, honestly, that I lose 3-0 League, is the one nobody apparently FIXTURES (1400 GMT UNLESS STATED) reporters at his pre-match press confer- and have much more positive thoughts wants to win. None of the challengers Today: Bournemouth v Tottenham (1130), ence yesterday he was expecting a tough about the game than negative, but it was managed a win last weekend, meaning West Ham v Southampton, Wolves v game against Newcastle, who are safe in this game. When we fl ew home it was Tottenham still lead the way on 70 points, Fulham, Cardiff v Crystal Palace (1630), from relegation. all OK, the boys were already (focused) on two head of Chelsea. Newcastle v Liverpool (1845) But he said his players had proved their the Newcastle game 100%,” the German Arsenal, who have lost their past three ability to perform under pressure all sea- boss added. league games, are on 66 points, with Tomorrow: Chelsea v Watford (1300), son, amassing 91 points so far with just “The boys have had 20 hours to re- Manchester United, still in the race de- Huddersfield v Manchester United (1300), a single defeat in the Premier League. cover, now we will have one session and spite a woeful run of form, a further point Arsenal v Brighton (1530) “The boys are completely on fi re,” he said. try to prepare them for Newcastle, which behind. Europa League Fifth and sixth On Monday: Manchester City v Leicester “When you are in the race and you see you is important because it will be a diff erent spot off ers the consolation of Europa (1900) Manchester United’s Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea. (AFP)

FOCUS EUROPA LEAGUE Sarri defends Lacazette, Aubameyang edge Arsenal towards fi nal

AFP qualifi cation via a top-four Premier benching Hazard London League fi nish. The Gunners had conceded three times in all three of those defeats to AFP minutes as they struggled to deal Crystal Palace, Wolves and Leicester and Frankfurt am Main with a determined Frankfurt in rsenal manager Unai Emery in- the same defensive defi ciencies cost them the fi rst half. Fired on by the sisted his side’s Europa League again early on. home crowd, the hosts caused semi-fi nal against Valencia is Valencia had already missed a glori- helsea coach Maurizio problems for Chelsea early on still “50-50” despite the Gun- ous chance to take the lead when Ezequiel Sarri defended his deci- before being outclassed for long nersA taking a 3-1 fi rst leg lead to Spain. Garay blazed over before Diakhaby forced sion to leave Eden Haz- periods in the second half. “We Valencia’s bright start at the Emirates the ball home at the back post for the vital ard on the bench and started to play after the goal and on Thursday night was rewarded with away goal on 11 minutes. Emery has been saidC his team “deserved a trophy” dominated the game for 70 min- Mouctar Diakhaby’s away goal. reticent to start Lacazette and Aubam- after they were held to a 1-1 draw utes,” said Sarri. But Alexandre Lacazette quickly eyang together up front, but the game at Eintracht Frankfurt in the fi rst Filip Kostic found the break- turned the game around with two goals turned on one moment of magic from Ar- leg of their Europa League semi- through for Frankfurt on 23 in eight fi rst-half minutes before Pierre- senal’s two prolifi c strikers. fi nal on Thursday. minutes, sending a pinpoint low Emerick Aubameyang’s late strike gave Lacazette played in Aubameyang and Pedro’s fi rst-half equaliser cross to Luka Jovic, who ducked Arsenal a two-goal advantage to defend the Gabon international left his marker gave Chelsea a potentially crucial low to fl ick his header inside the at the Mestalla on May 9. and Valencia goalkeeper Neto on the away goal after a hard-fought far post. Frankfurt then tried to However, Emery, who managed Valen- ground before squaring for his strike clash at the Commerzbank Are- grab control of the tie, with Se- cia between 2008 and 2012, knows the tie partner to roll into an empty net. Seven na. Sarri raised eyebrows with bastian Rode snapping at Chel- is far from over due to Arsenal’s terrible minutes later, Arsenal led as terrible de- his decision to leave Hazard out sea’s heels in midfi eld and Jovic away record this season. “It is a good re- fending allowed Lacazette a free header of the starting line-up, but he and Mijat Gacinovic lurking in sult at home, but the second leg is going from Granit Xhaka’s cross and a weak said he had no choice but to rest wait for a chance to break. to be very diffi cult and maybe diff erent. I hand from Neto could not prevent the ball the Belgian star. Yet Sarri’s side eased their way consider for both teams it is 50-50,” said crossing the line. “Eden was on the bench be- patiently back into the game, Emery. “We can be proud of the players. It “We had the game completely in con- cause he has played 10 games in and deserved to draw level when is not easy to be calm and come back with trol until their fi rst goal,” lamented Va- a row,” said Sarri. “It is impos- Pedro fi nally found the net with that result against this team.” lencia coach Marcelino Garcia Toral. “We sible for a player to play 70 to 75 a well-placed strike just before Arsenal are desperate not just for sil- played against two strikers that are very matches in a season. Sometimes half-time. “It was annoying to verware in Emery’s fi rst season but the good which is why they cost the millions they need to rest, or at least not concede just before half-time, guarantee of Champions League qualifi - that they did. With the slightest error to play for 90 minutes.” but they have quality in front of cation for next season that winning the they punish you.” “We want to reach the fi nal, goal,” said Frankfurt midfi elder Europa League would bring. “We want to Lacazette missed two glorious oppor- and this time I want to win it,” Gelson Fernandes. win the Europa League to go straight to tunities to complete his hat-trick as he added Sarri, whose team lost the It remained a fi ercely con- the Champions League but also to win a fi rstly failed to connect with an inch-per- League Cup fi nal against Man- tested game after the break, and trophy,” said Lacazette. “We want to fi n- fect Aubameyang cross before Neto made chester City earlier this season. Chelsea midfi elder Jorginho had ish in the top four in the Premier League a brilliant save at his near post to keep the “Three months ago, we were in to be bandaged up after a clash of and if we can go to Baku (for the Europa Spanish side in the tie. trouble. Now we are in the top heads with Rode. Always a step League fi nal) it will be special.” At the other end Petr Cech also had to four and in the semi-fi nal, so I ahead of Frankfurt in the second A run of three straight Premier League make a smart stop as he raced from his think we deserve to win a trophy.” half, the visitors nearly took the Arsenal’s Alexandre Lacazette (left) celebrates with teammates Pierre-Emerick defeats has left Emery’s men needing goal to deny substitute Kevin Gameiro. Sarri said his team had made lead when David Luiz struck the Aubameyang (centre) and Matteo Guendouzi after scoring against Valencia in the more favours from Chelsea or Tottenham The veteran stopper has announced he a “mistake” in the opening 20 bar with a fi zzing free-kick. Europa League semi-final first leg at Emirates Stadium in London. (Reuters) to stand any chance of Champions League will retire at the end of the season. Gulf Times Saturday, May 4, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

BUNDESLIGA FOCUS Mbappe Robben and Ribery hope slapped with three match ban to return for Bayern’s AFP Paris

rench World Cup win- ner Kylian Mbappe was banned for three match- nervy title run-in es yesterday following hisF sending-off for a reckless tackle during Paris Saint-Ger- main’s French Cup fi nal debacle Long-serving Dutch and French stars are both expected to leave the club at the end of season against Rennes. The French football Federation AFP (FFF) said they had also opened Berlin disciplinary proceedings against Mbappe’s teammate Neymar for striking a Rennes fan following ayern Munich coach Niko Ko- the shock defeat on penalties af- vac has said that veteran wing- ter extra time. ers Arjen Robben and Franck Mbappe, PSG’s gifted Ribery will be on hand to help 20-year-old striker, lunged with hisB side hold their nerve in the last his studs into the knee of Rennes weeks of a tense Bundesliga title race. defender Damien Da Silva near League leaders Bayern, who host bot- the close of extra time on Sun- tom club Hanover today, currently sit day. Having already missed one two points ahead of rivals Borussia game, Mbappe will miss today’s Dortmund with three games to go. match against Nice and the trip Kovac said yesterday that the title to Angers the following week but race would be a “question of nerves”, will be available for the last two and said that he hoped to be able to games of the season. count on the experience of club legends The threat of further sanc- Robben, 35, and Ribery, 36. The long- tions hangs over Neymar, serving Dutch and French superstars banned for three Champions are both expected to leave the club at League games after insulting the end of the season, though there had the referee following PSG’s exit been fears that injury problems would from the last 16 at the hands of deny both men a fi tting send-off . Manchester United. This time Robben has been out of action since Neymar lashed out at an abu- November with thigh and calf prob- sive opposing fan as he climbed lems, while Ribery has missed the last the steps to receive his French two weeks with muscle injuries. Yet Ko- Cup fi nal losers medal. An online vac said that both players were “doing video shows the fan insulting well” and he expects them to play a role several PSG players then telling in the Bundesliga run-in and German the Brazilian superstar to “go Cup fi nal later this month. “I am very learn how to play football.” positive that the two of them will con- test these four games alongside us,” he said. “We won’t throw everything over board in order to give someone a send- off , but we want to see that they get a few minutes on the pitch.” The departure of Robben and Ribery after 10 and 12 years respectively is just one element of a major generational shift expected at Bayern this summer. The Munich giants have already com- Niko Kovac’s (left) Bayern Munich, who host bottom club Hanover today, currently sit two points ahead of rivals Borussia Dortmund with three games to go. (AFP) pleted the signings of young French defenders Benjamin Pavard and Lucas Bayern missed the chance to go four tough trip to Werder Bremen today. CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke rubbished tively, and Stuttgart beat Hertha Berlin. Hernandez, and reports in the German points clear of Dortmund when they Dortmund coach Lucien Favre declared Favre’s claim that the title was already FIXTURES (GMT) press this week suggested that senior were held to a draw at relegation- the title race was over after his side’s lost this week, saying that Dortmund Today: Bayern Munich v Hanover, Borus- players Mats Hummels and Thomas threatened Nuremberg last Sunday, and derby defeat to Schalke last weekend, would fi ght until the bitter end. “We will sia Moenchengladbach v Hoff enheim, Mueller are considering a move away. Kovac urged his team to bounce back and now faces the next two games with- do everything we can to try and catch Hertha Berlin v Stuttgart, Wolfsburg v For now, though, Kovac is focused on against Hanover. out captain Marco Reus, who was sus- them,” Watzke said. “It has been a long Nuremberg (1330), Werder Bremen v crowning his fi rst season in charge with “The team knows that they missed pended for his red-card challenge on time since the league leader has had only a league and cup double. “The runner- a big opportunity against Nuremberg, Schalke’s Suat Serdar. a two-point lead with three games to go, Borussia Dortmund (1630) up is always just the fi rst of the losers, but they are only human,” he said. “We Favre is expected to play Paco Alcac- and that is good for the Bundesliga.” Tomorrow: Schalke v Augsburg (1130), only winning counts,” he said. “I hope need to be better this weekend.” er and Mario Goetze up front in Reus’ Elsewhere, Hanover and Nuremberg Freiburg v Fortuna Duesseldorf (1330), that we can wrap up the title before the A win over Hanover would pile the absence, as Dortmund look to at least could be relegated this weekend if they Bayer Leverkusen v Eintracht Frankfurt last day of the season.” pressure on Dortmund, who face a keep within two points of Bayern. Club lose to Bayern and Wolfsburg respec- (1600)

ROUND-UP LIGUE 1 Bassini claims Champions League showdown for Lille and Lyon AFP Bolton takeover as Paris uncertainty swirls aris Saint-Germain have gone into meltdown despite another aurence Bassini said repeated problems with unpaid league title, but below them this yesterday he has “taken salaries, took strike action. is a potentially decisive week- control” of relegated Brentford was awarded the Pend in France in the battle for Champions Championship side Bol- three points on the basis of a 1-0 League qualifi cation. With only second Lton Wanderers even though the victory. place in Ligue 1 certain to join PSG in next club said the potential takeover season’s Champions League group stage, was off . Bolton, heading down to KANE INVITES DANCING Lille’s trip to Lyon tomorrow could defi ne the third tier of English football, SPURS FAN TO BE MASCOT their campaign. Lille have enjoyed an ex- issued a statement on Thursday IN SEASON FINALE traordinary campaign and have held sec- saying there would be no further A Tottenham Hotspur supporter ond place since early December, inspired discussions with the former who was abused online for danc- by the brilliance of Ivory Coast forward Watford chairman. ing in their new stadium after Nicolas Pepe, who Lyon tried to buy back On Tuesday, Bassini had last Saturday’s Premier League in August and who has scored 20 league committed to providing proof of defeat has been invited by skip- goals this season. funds for his potential purchase per Harry Kane to be a mascot in Christophe Galtier’s team are currently to the English Football League their fi nal match of the season. six points ahead of Lyon with a superior (EFL) within 48 hours, but Neil Markham posted a video goal diff erence, so a victory for them at Bolton say that deadline passed of his 16-year-old daughter Ella, the Groupama Stadium would put them without the required information who has Down’s Syndrome, out of reach with only three games left being shown. But in a strongly dancing inside the stadium after after this weekend. worded statement issued, he the 1-0 defeat by West Ham “We are having a great run and we need said: “I have taken control of the United. However, he was then to make it exceptional by putting in a club this morning and instructed subjected to a fl ood of online great performance at Lyon,” said Galtier staff not to make any further abuse from upset supporters after his team’s 5-0 trouncing of Nimes statements. I have proof of funds with some of them mocking her last week. A fi rst appearance in the group and a watertight contract.” condition. “Ella was being called stage of Europe’s elite club competition Bassini, who was banned from all sorts of names, (people were) since 2012/13 is the goal for Lille, while holding a position of infl uence at laughing at her in terms of the for Lyon missing out on the Champions any English Football League club way she was dancing and the League is unthinkable. Lille have enjoyed an extraordinary campaign and have held second place since early December. (AFP) for three years in 2013, added: “I way she looked,” Markham told They must at least hold onto third, will be attending the Notting- the BBC. “I was getting abuse which will take them into the qualifying look set to qualify for the Europa League, chester United in March. match their own league record points ham Forest game on Sunday and in terms of having a child with rounds of the Champions League, al- lying fi ve points ahead of Marseille and They host Nice today, although their tally of 96 if they win their remaining I will put things right at Bolton Down’s Syndrome.” though it could also take them straight to Montpellier before going to Monaco to- build-up to that game has been over- games. “We can’t play four crap match- Wanderers. Ken Anderson can- Kane who told Ella to “keep the group stage depending on who wins morrow. The principality club have en- shadowed by three-match suspension to es,” warned defender Marquinhos. “We not sell the club to anyone else, dancing” and invited her to be the Europa League. They have won both dured a torrid season, but they came Kylian Mbappe after he was sent off in the are the champions, we have to put in good he is on notice and would be in a mascot in their home clash matches since coach Bruno Genesio con- back from 2-0 down to draw at Rennes on Cup fi nal for a dreadful tackle on Rennes performances, enjoy ourselves and make breach of contract should he try against Everton on May 12. fi rmed that he would be leaving the club Wednesday thanks to a Radamel Falcao defender Damien Da Silva. Also disci- our fans happy.” to. I am the only person who can “I want to thank you for your at the end of the season, but their priority brace, moving them four points clear of plinary proceedings has been opened buy Bolton Wanderers.” amazing support. Your family for now has to be holding off great rivals the relegation zone. against Neymar for striking a fan during FIXTURES (KICK-OFFS GMT) The former Premier League are proud of you as well,” Kane Saint-Etienne, who lie just three points Meanwhile, PSG suff ered their third PSG’s French Cup fi nal loss to Rennes. Today: Paris Saint-Germain v Nice (1500), club, located in the northwest said in a video message to Ella. adrift in fourth. defeat in their last four league games The duo have both been nominated for Bordeaux v Angers, Guingamp v Caen, of England, were due to play “We know you’re a big fan and Saint-Etienne may be historically when they were beaten 3-2 at Montpellier France’s player of the year award along Reims v Nimes (all 1800) Brentford in their fi nal home we’d love for you to come down France’s most successful club, yet they in midweek, on the back of their French with teammate Angel Di Maria, Lille star Championship league game of and be a mascot for the last game have not fi nished in the top three since Cup fi nal defeat on penalties against Pepe and Rennes maverick Hatem Ben Tomorrow: Montpelliers v Amiens, Nantes the season last Saturday. But of the season. Keep dancing and 1982. If they can do so this time, pipping Rennes. They may be champions again, Arfa. v Dijon, Toulouse v Rennes (all 1300), the match was postponed after keep doing what you’re doing, Lyon would be the icing on the cake for but their campaign began to disintegrate The end of the season cannot come Monaco v Saint-Etienne (1500), Lyon v Lille frustrated players, furious at lots of love.” their fans. Les Verts do at the very least with their exit from Europe against Man- soon enough for PSG, but they can still (1900) ulf Times 4 Saturday, May 4, 2019 CRICKET

ODI IPL Gill’s unbeaten 65 helps Kolkata beat Foakes and Curran Punjab by 7 wickets

IANS Earlier, Curran (55 off 24 Mohali balls not out) notched up his maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) half-century with the hubman Gill struck his help of seven fours and two rescue England second consecutive sixes as Kings XI posted 183/6, half century as Kolkata plundering 58 runs in the last Knight Riders (KKR) fi ve overs after Karthik asked keptS their playoff chances alive them to bat fi rst. by defeating Kings XI Punjab Curran, who did not play the by seven wickets in a must- last couple of matches, came win Indian Premier League in to bat when Kings XI were (IPL) encounter yesterday. 140/4 after 13.3 overs, having against Ireland Gill, who opened the batting lost Agarwal (36; 26 balls, 4x2, with Chris Lynn, remained 6x1) and, more importantly, Foakes digs England out of a hole with a magnificent unbeaten 61 on debut unbeaten on 65 off 49 balls, his Nicholas Pooran (48; 27 balls, innings laced with fi ve fours 4x3, 6x4) in quick succession. and two sixes. The England all-rounder Chasing 184 for victory, KKR made the most of a reprieve were always in the driver’s seat after he was dropped on 17 by with Gill and Lynn joining Rinku Singh off Sunil Narine, hands for a 62-run opening hitting Harry Gurney for 22 wicket partnership. runs in the fi nal over, including After Lynn (46; 22b; 5x4; three fours and a six off the last 3x6) was dismissed, caught four deliveries. and bowled by compatriot Pooran had set the platform Andrew Tye, Robin Uthappa with a brilliant knock as he and Gill continued the carnage shared 69 runs for for the third before the former picked out wicket with Agarwal. Mayank Agarwal at long off Sandeep Warrier (2/31) jolt- off R. Ashwin. Uthappa looked ed Kings XI early, accounting good for his 22 off 14 deliveries. for both of their top-perform- But the day belonged to Gill, ing batsmen K L Rahul (2) and who showed superb timing to Chris Gayle (14). milk boundaries at will even Rahul was the fi rst to go with as Andre Russell, batting at Chris Lynn taking his catch at number 4, failed to produce his mid-on after the India bats- usual spark with a 14-ball 24, man tried to clear the infi eld. with Mohamed Shami remov- Warrier then set Gayle up ing him with a well directed with a short ball which the vet- bouncer which Tye caught at eran West Indies opener failed deep square leg. to negotiate, hitting straight The over where Gill took to backward square-leg where on Ashwin to bring his third Shubman Gill took an easy IPL fi fty in 36 balls was a treat catch. to the eye as the U-19 World Kings XI were in some sort of Cup winner hit two gorgeous trouble at 41/2 after the power- sixes and a silken late cut for a play overs. This is when Pooran boundary. came to the party, taking the Skipper Dinesh Karthik (21 likes of Piyush Chawla, who had off 9 balls not out) smashed a forgettable day, to the cleaners Sam Curran for a six and a four by scoring at a brisk rate. The to hit the winning runs in the hosts were 84/2 at the halfway 18th over, as KKR won with stage with Pooran going great 12 balls to spare. KKR posted guns, and KKR skipper Dinesh 185/3 in 18 overs. Karthik failing to stop him even The result saw KKR jump to with spinners operating from fi fth spot with 12 points and both ends. one to play, against already- qualifi ed Mumbai Indians BRIEF SCORES on Sunday. Kings XI, mean- KXIP 183/6 (Sam Curran 55 while, dropped to seventh in not out, Nicholas Pooran 48; the eight-team points table Sandeep Warrier 2/31); KKR with one game to go, and their 185/3 in 18 overs (Shubman chances are all but over. Gill 65 not out, Chris Lynn 46).

England’s Ben Foakes in action during a one-day international match against Ireland at the Malahide Cricket Club in Dublin yesterday. (AFP)

AFP and Surrey teammate Tom Cur- World Cup with a four-wicket bados-born Archer, on for the only manage four before he hit Dublin ran (47 not out) saw England to haul. Plunkett took four wick- second over of England’s fi rst Curran to backward point. victory with an unbroken stand ets for 35 runs in seven overs as international of a packed season, Andrew Balbirnie’s painstak- of 98. The gloveman’s tempera- Ireland were dismissed for 198 at saw his opening delivery struck ing 29 ended when Foakes, clev- en Foakes’ unbeaten ment had already been estab- Dublin’s Malahide ground. sweetly through point for four erly holding onto the ball, waited 61 on his debut helped lished with a century on his Test By contrast Archer, who fi n- by Stirling. for the batsman to over-balance England recover from debut in Sri Lanka over the win- ished with one for 40 in eight The Middlesex batsman took after missing a sweep off Joe a top-order collapse to ter. Here, despite knowing he overs, saw his fi rst ball in inter- three more boundaries off Arch- Denly and then whipped off the beatB Ireland by four wickets in will make way when Jos Buttler national cricket hit for four after er in an opening four-over spell bails to complete a stumping. a lone one-day international in returns, he delivered, allied with Dublin-born England captain from the Sussex seamer costing Ireland were now 111 for six Dublin yesterday. 47 not out from Curran. Eoin Morgan won the toss in a 21 runs. But Archer, living up to and Archer, returning for a sec- England, the world’s top- Both men had brushes with match reduced to 45 overs per his reputation as a fi ne fi elder, ond spell, showed what he was ranked side in ODI cricket and disaster along the way. Foakes side by a wet outfi eld. helped break the opening stand capable of with a 90.3 mile per the hosts of the 50-over World should have been given out lbw Ireland captain William Por- with a diving low catch at mid- hour yorker that bowled Mark Cup starting later this month, on 37, while Curran was dropped terfi eld and fellow opener Paul on off Tom Curran to dismiss Adair soon after his fellow debu- collapsed to 66 for fi ve chasing a by Lorcan Tucker in the deep Stirling got the hosts’ innings off Stirling for 33. tant had hit Curran for two sixes. modest 199 for victory. on 39. Nevertheless their stand to a brisk start. Next over, Porterfi eld was Plunkett and Curran then They were still in trouble at of 98 in 15 overs was ice-cool in But from 55 without loss, Ire- caught down the legside off wrapped up the innings between Malahide when teenage debu- its execution, not least given the land slumped to 77 for four. Plunkett by wicket-keeper Ben them. tant left-arm quick Josh Little top-order collapse that had pre- Ireland, still smarting at their Foakes, making his ODI de- took his fourth wicket to leave ceded it. exclusion from a World Cup but having already played Test BRIEF SCORES them 101 for six against an Ire- Earlier England’s Liam Plun- that has been reduced to just 10 cricket. Kevin O’Brien, who England 199 for 6 (Foakes land side who have not qualifi ed kett reminded debutant Jofra teams, were unable to bat out made a brilliant hundred when 61, Curran 47, Little 4-45) beat Kolkata Knight Riders’ Shubman Gill plays a shot during the 2019 for the World Cup. Archer he is still a force to be their 45 overs, with 11 balls left Ireland beat England in Banga- Ireland 198 (Stirling 33, Plunkett IPL match against between Kings XI Punjab at the Punjab Cricket But wicket-keeper Foakes reckoned with ahead of a home when the innings ended. Bar- lore at the 2011 World Cup, could 4-35) by four wickets. Association Stadium in Mohali yesterday. (AFP)

FOCUS Rajasthan reappoint Rahane as captain Rajasthan Royals have de- “As a true Royal he has shown cided to bring back Ajinkya great courage and character Rahane as captain for the in graciously accepting the remainder of their Indian Pre- responsibility, which accom- ‘No tension’ as Smith, Warner mier League campaign after panies this role, whilst it would Steve Smith left to join the have been easier for him to Australian squad, the franchise take a back seat and focus announced yesterday. solely on his batting. India’s Test vice-captain “He has consistently been part back in Aussie colours: Langer Rahane was sacked as Royals of the leadership team taking AFP with Warner in blistering form, Cup champions and have been in captain last month after guid- key decisions and we have full Brisbane, Australia topping the competition batting recent red-hot form winning eight ing the team to just two wins trust in him taking us to vic- rankings with 692 runs from 12 in- one-day internationals on the trot, in the first eight matches of tory tomorrow.” nings. Langer acknowledged there against India and Pakistan. the 2019 season. Rajasthan, who are fifth in the teve Smith and David Warn- would need to be some adjustments “We have had great success in Former Australian captain table with 11 points from 13 er have been welcomed back for the former team leaders, but the past. While we celebrate that, it Smith, on the other hand, led games, must beat Delhi Capi- to the Australian team with said the team would be boosted by means nothing on how we play this the Royals to three victories in tals today to stand any chance “no tension”, coach Jus- their experience. (World Cup),” Langer said. the five matches that he was of qualifying for the playoff s. tinS Langer said yesterday, with the “When you come from the titled “But I do know that we had a captain, with one of the those World Cup off ering another oppor- position of captain then there is go- very humbling experience. And games ending without a result. tunity for redemption. ing to be a certain degree of humil- we bought it upon ourselves,” he Smith has left the group to join The duo returned to the national ity that comes with that,” he said. added, refl ecting on vision of Smith Australia’s World Cup prepara- side for a World Cup training camp “One of our really strong values being “frog-marched out of South tion camp and Royals head Friday in Brisbane after serving is humility, so there will be great Africa”. of cricket Zubin Bharucha year-long bans for their part in the opportunity to develop that.” He said the team needed to use believes Rahane can be the “sandpapergate” scandal in Cape The Aussie coach welcomed every tournament on the calendar “guiding force” of the team as Town that rocked cricket. the selection dilemma Smith and to “make Australians proud of us they hope to qualify for the IPL “There is no tension,” a smil- Warner added to the top order, again”. playoff s. ing Langer told reporters. “They’re joining Aaron Finch, Usman Khaw- “We must make the most of every “We have requested Ajinkya back in the team now. They’ve been ja and Shaun Marsh, made it “excit- opportunity that comes up, includ- to take on the captaincy of selected, which is brilliant.” ing to have those fi ve 100-makers at ing this World Cup,” he said. the team,” Bharucha said in a The duo have enjoyed a solid our disposal”. The World Cup starts on May 30 statement. comeback in the Twenty20 IPL, Australia are the reigning World in England and Wales. Australia coach Justin Langer. (AFP) Gulf Times Saturday, May 4, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA MLB Syndergaard throws four-hitter, homers Sixers dominate in Mets 1-0 victory

Reuters Mahle (0-4) suff ered the Washington hard-luck loss after giving up four hits and one walk while oah Syndergaard did striking out seven over fi ve in- it all for the New York nings. Other than Syndergaard, Toronto Raptors to Mets on Thursday af- only two Mets got beyond fi rst ternoon, as the right- base against Mahle and three re- Nhander tossed a four-hitter and lievers. produced the game’s only run Robinson Cano singled and with a third-inning homer as the went to second base on Michael Mets beat the visiting Cincinnati Conforto’s single in the fi rst and Reds, 1-0. Wilson Ramos doubled and ad- Syndergaard’s second career vanced to third in the fi fth. take 2-1 series lead shutout - and his second homer of the season and the sixth of NATIONALS FIRE PITCHING ‘I was trying not to force anything and if I didn’t have it I just moved it to my teammates. his career - gave the Mets a split COACH LILLIQUIST of the four-game series. It was The Washington Nationals fi red We wanted to put our foot down in the fourth and we did that by making stops’ the second straight 1-0 game pitching coach Derek Lilliquist between the teams. The Reds after a 2-1 victory over the St. earned a win Wednesday when Louis Cardinals on Thursday Jose Iglesias homered in the top night. of the ninth. Syndergaard also had the Mets’ previous shutout last RESULTS Sept. 30, when he went the Mets 1-0 Reds distance in a 1-0 win over the Miami Marlins in the Nationals 2-1 Cardinals regular-season fi nale. White Sox 6-4 Red Sox The 1-0 win Thursday Angels 6-2 Blue Jays was the fi rst in the Mets’ 58-year history in which Twins 8-2 Astros the starting pitcher ac- Rays 3-1 Royals counted for the run with a Rockies 11-6 Brewers homer. Syndergaard is the fi rst pitcher to homer for Padres 11-2 Braves the only run in his shutout since Bob Welch did it for the “He took it like a true champi- Dodgers on June 17, 1983, also on,” general manager Mike Rizzo against the Reds. said of the former major league The opposite fi eld homer by left-hander. “It is very diffi cult. Syndergaard off Tyler Mahle was It is a diffi cult day.” the fourth of the season for a The new pitching coach will Mets pitcher, tying the franchise be Paul Menhart, the pitching record set previously in 2016. coordinator in the Nationals’ Syndergaard (2-3) walked one, minor league system. struck out 10 and threw just 104 The Nationals are 13-17 with pitches in the gem. He is just a disappointing 4.82 ERA, bet- the third pitcher this season to ter than only the New York Mets throw a shutout, following in the (4.90) and the Milwaukee Brew- footsteps of the Colorado Rock- ers (5.20) in the National League. ies’ German Marquez and the Lilliquist, 53, had served as Texas Rangers’ Mike Minor. Washington’s pitching coach The shutout snapped a slump since the start of the 2018 cam- for Syndergaard, who entered paign, the fi rst year of manager Thursday with a 6.35 ERA and Dave Martinez’s tenure. He pre- had given up at least four runs in viously was the St. Louis Cardi- each of his last four starts. nals’ bullpen coach. Only one Reds player got as Lilliquist played eight big- far as second base against Syn- league seasons with a total of fi ve dergaard, who retired nine in a teams through 1996, going 22-34 row before Derek Dietrich sin- with 17 saves and a 4.13 in 262 gled with two outs in the ninth. games (52 starts). Pinch-runner Michael Lorenzen Menhart, 50, pitched for three stole second but Syndergaard major league teams from 1995- struck out Yasiel Puig for the fi - 97, fi nishing 5-9 with a 5.47 ERA nal out. in 41 games (23 starts). He has Dietrich was the only player worked for the Washington or- on either team with two hits. ganisation for 14 years.

Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers dunks the ball against the Toronto Raptors in the fourth quarter of game three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Raptors 116-95. (Getty Images/AFP)

AFP did that by making stops.” best, jiggling his shoulders and the third quarter with another minutes left in the fourth. Philadelphia Jimmy Butler added 22 rocking a mock baby after scor- 14 points to keep Toronto with- Butler then slammed home points, nine assists and nine ing baskets .“I need it. When I in eight (89-81) heading into the a dunk, got fouled and put the rebounds while JJ Redick de- have fun, my game just chang- fourth. Sixers ahead 108-84 with 5:51 oel Embiid fi nished with livered 15 points for the Sixers, es,” he said. “I have always been “We’ve got to help him,” Kyle left. The Raptors missed 11 of 33 points as the Philadel- who have won two straight in- told that if I don’t smile during Lowry said. “Myself especially, their fi rst 12 shots in the fourth. phia 76ers routed the To- cluding a gritty 94-89 victory the game that I’m either having I’ve got to help him score more. Toronto was hurt by poor ronto Raptors 116-95 on in game two three nights ago. a bad game or I’m not into it. I’ve got to help him on the fl oor. shooting and rebounding. ThursdayJ to seize a 2-1 lead in Game four will be played in “I know that to get my game We’ve all got to help him. He’s “I think we got outplayed their NBA second-round play- Philadelphia on Sunday. going, I have to have fun on the playing unbelievable right now. in just about every area we off series. Embiid also had 10 Kawhi Leonard paced the court.” “We’re not giving him any could get outplayed. In overall rebounds and fi ve blocked shots Raptors’ attack with 33 points Philadelphia led 64-53 at help.” physicality, energy, cutting, re- for his 12th double-double in 15 while Pascal Siakam added 20. halftime thanks in large part to Embiid drained his third bounding, passing, all that kind career playoff games. Leonard has scored at least 30 Embiid’s 18 points. The Sixers three-pointer and the 76ers of stuff ,” Raptors coach Nick “I was trying not to force points in fi ve of Toronto’s eight also shot eight of 14 from three- charged to a 94-82 lead early Nurse said. anything and if I didn’t have it I playoff games this season, in- point range in the opening half. in the fourth. Butler upped his “We got thoroughly out- just moved it to my teammates,” cluding all three games against Leonard powered the Raptors scoring prowess with a cou- played and it’s been a while... New York Mets starting pitcher Noah Syndergaard pitches against he said. “We wanted to put our Philadelphia. with 17 points in the fi rst half, ple of baskets and the lead was since you’ve seen this team play the Cincinnati Reds during the first inning at Citi Field. PICTURE: USA foot down in the fourth and we Embiid was at his theatrical and continued his fi ne play in stretched to 100-82 with nine this way.” TODAY Sports

NHL Bergeron tallies twice as Bruins even series with Jackets Reuters saves) banking off Blue Jackets review shall only be permitted on Washington defenseman David Savard to set goals that hit the spectator net- up Kuraly’s conversion at 8:40 of ting if the puck is directed imme- the third. diately into the goal.” The league atrice Bergeron scored a Bergeron capped the scoring provided two diff erent scenarios pair of power-play goals with a power-play goal from in for its defi nition of “immediately,” as the visiting Boston close with 2:30 remaining in the although neither applies since Bruins posted a 4-1 victo- game. The Blue Jackets cut their Bjorkstrand played the puck prior ryP over the Columbus Blue Jackets defi cit to 2-1 at 8:46 of the fi rst to it entering the goal. on Thursday to even their Eastern period, although not without Boston opened the scoring at Conference second-round series controversy. 3:33 of the fi rst period. Defense- at two wins apiece. Defenseman Seth Jones’ shot man Charlie McAvoy wired a di- David Pastrnak collected a goal caromed off a teammate and sailed agonal pass from the point to the and an assist, and Columbus-area into the spectator netting before left circle for an awaiting Pas- native Sean Kuraly also tallied for bouncing back into play. The four trnak, who one-timed the puck the Bruins, who host Game 5 on offi cials were unaware that the past Bobrovsky. Saturday. Tuukka Rask fi nished puck had hit the netting, but Ol- Columbus attempted to answer with 39 saves, including a stop on iver Bjorkstrand alertly shoveled it three minutes later, with Jenner a Boone Jenner penalty shot in the to an unmarked Panarin for a con- receiving a penalty shot after be- fi rst period. version from the doorstep. ing tripped by Brad Marchand on After Artemi Panarin’s disput- The Bruins immediately dis- a partial breakaway. Rask made a ed goal trimmed Boston’s lead to puted the goal, but coaches are save with his blocker to deny Jen- 2-1 in the fi rst period, the Bruins allowed to challenge plays only for ner on the penalty shot, however. scored twice in the third to seal off side and goaltender interfer- The Bruins doubled the advan- the win. ence. tage just 26 seconds later, at 7:18 Boston captain Zdeno Chara’s The NHL rulebook sheds light of the fi rst, when Marchand’s shot from the point caromed off on why the Situation Room in To- seam pass to the slot allowed Patrice Bergeron of the Boston Bruins is congratulated by his teammates after scoring a power play goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets the boards, with a clearing at- ronto could not get involved. Bergeron to wrist a shot inside the during the first period in Game Four of the Eastern Conference second round of the 2019 NHL Stanley Cup playoff s at Nationwide Arena in tempt by Sergei Bobrovsky (42 Per NHL Rule 38.4 (ix): “Video right post. Columbus, Ohio. (Getty Images/AFP) Gulf Times 6 Saturday, May 4, 2019 SPORT

HORSE RACING INTERVIEW Budd hopes Benetton win changes perspectives Baff ert eyes joy of six of Italian rugby Reuters coaching staff tell us to avoid Rome the press like the plague, be- cause it does nothing for our confi dence reading week in s Italy trudged off the week out that whoever is com- pitch on the fi nal day ing is going to take fi ve points,” of the Six Nations, he said. at Kentucky Derby the critics sharp- “That’s diffi cult as a player, enedA their knives, preparing to be beaten from the outside ‘I feel like I’d super-jinx myself. I feel lucky I won one Derby, let alone five’ to strike another blow into the and then on the fi eld. heart of Italian rugby. “I think soon enough people Yet the doom-mongers had will start to realise that Italy is ignored green shoots of re- a team that should be respect- covery on the peninsula, most ed. But until we do that on the notably the remarkable im- fi eld that’s all just talk.” provement of club side Ben- Benetton fi nished bottom of etton, who made history last the league as recently as 2016, weekend by becoming the fi rst but the arrival of former All Italian team to reach the Pro14 Black Kieran Crowley as head playoff s. Their captain Dean coach that summer sparked a Budd insists that the Peroni is transformation. on ice for now as the Treviso- Budd, now in his seventh based club, who have lofty season at the Stadio Monigo, ambitions, prepare for a trip to has witnessed every step of Munster for today’s quarter- their rollercoaster journey. fi nal. “I couldn’t’ tell you honestly “One of our goals at the start what happened in the years of the season was to change before Kieran arrived but I people’s perspectives and be think there was a lot of shit, to the pride of Italian rugby,” put it bluntly, going on behind Budd told Reuters. the scenes, which didn’t help “That was something we al- the team perform to the best ways talked about. I hope this of its ability and didn’t give the is a positive step in the right coaches the opportunity to be direction.” able to provide the best for the Budd, a native New Zea- boys,” he said. lander, arrived in Treviso in “There was a change and 2012 and has represented It- our director of sport became aly 20 times since qualifying Antonio Pavanello, coming in through residency to make his with Kieran. There’s been a debut in June 2017. huge shift to objective-based The 32-year-old lock start- goals. Not just dreaming about ed four of the Azzurri’s Six Na- change, but actually making it tions matches this year, when happen.” they suff ered a 22nd consecu- “A lot of players always had tive defeat in the competi- the ability but were never al- tion, collecting a fi fth wooden lowed to show their individ- spoon in six years. ual skill because if you made He is hopeful that the suc- a mistake it probably meant cess of a Benetton side boast- you weren’t playing the next ing the bulk of the national week,” he continued. squad will be felt at interna- “But with Kieran it’s all tional level. skill-based, you can see the “A sour point we’ve always handling of the boys has dou- had in Italy is that we feel we bled. Our skills, our fi tness is get the rough end of it when it so much better and that’s al- comes to refereeing, because lowed us to play this style of everyone’s used to seeing us rugby.” lose,” he said. A mammoth task lies in “If a 50/50 goes against us, store this weekend when Ben- there’s a sense that it doesn’t etton face two-times Euro- really change much. Hopefully pean champions Munster for a Trainer Bob Baff ert leads Game Winner to the track for morning workouts in preparation for the 145th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on this can be the beginning of a place in the semi-fi nals. Thursday. (Getty Images/AFP) change in perspectives. “We can’t hide away from “I think it’s all confi dence- the fact that we’re coming up AFP based with us players here in against one of the best teams New York Collmus ready to call Kentucky Derby without wife Italy. If boys can really start in European history,” Budd to believe that we’re as good said. Larry Collmus has called capped off the call in style. audience will number in the mil- track. “If for some reason (during as the rest, then I think that “Finals rugby is some- egendary thoroughbred American horse racing’s Triple “Mywifenoseevrything, more lions rather than a few thousand. a race) a name doesn’t come into will transfer over to the Italian thing where you never know trainer Bob Baff ert is Crown for NBC since 2011, but than Thewifedoesntknow! His adrenaline level when the your head right away you can team.” what can happen. If you look poised to claim another he is probably best known for Whoo!” starting gates spring open is take a glance and see those col- Budd also hopes that his at Connacht v Leinster three piece of racing his- what would have remained an Collmus, speaking to Reuters likely to approach that of the ours right next to the horse and team’s achievement of fi nish- years ago (when Connacht Ltory today as he hunts a record- ing third in Conference B, se- won the Pro12 fi nal), we can obscure race if not for a conflu- ahead of today’s Kentucky jockeys. grab it pretty quick. It’s a great equalling sixth victory in the ence of factors that set in motion Derby, admitted the commen- “The pressure of calling the memorisation aid to me.” curing not only a playoff spot use that game as inspiration a 145th Kentucky Derby. what became a viral video. tary was purely spontaneous. Kentucky Derby and the whole Collmus, who claims to have a but a place in next season’s real David versus Goliath situ- The shock withdrawal of pre- On a soggy summer’s day in “I realised 15 minutes before the atmosphere of it, it doesn’t go poor long-term memory, has Champions Cup, will lead to ation. Whoever shows up on race favourite Omaha Beach with Monmouth, New Jersey in 2010, race they were in the same race down with experience,” he said. been lucky enough to document kinder media coverage. “The the day will take it home.” a throat problem on Wednesday two horses in the same race had together,” he said in a telephone “It seems to stay the same every some of the most momentous has left Baff ert perfectly posi- similar names – one named My- interview. “I thought, ‘just get it year leading up to the race, moments in the sport. In 2015 tioned to add to his bulging tro- wifenosevrything and the other right. Don’t mix the names up’.” with the sweaty palms, trying to American Pharoah became the phy cabinet at Churchill Downs. Thewifedoesntknow. While now part of the sport’s steady the binoculars as much first horse in 37 years to win the The silver-haired 66-year- As fate would have it, the two zeitgeist, Collmus would rather as you can. three races that comprise the old trainer from California will horses vied for victory down the be remembered for calling the “You have to be on your game Triple Crown – the Kentucky become only the second man to home straight, which enabled sport’s biggest races. every time. Control that heart- Derby, Preakness Stakes and win six editions of the US racing Collmus to have a bit of fun with “I thought a couple of friends beat is all I can try to do.” Belmont Stakes – while Justify showpiece, joining Ben Jones, it. “They’re one-two, of course might text me and say they Gone are the days when he accomplished it last year. who the Derby six times between they are,” he called, his voice heard my call and it was funny. I would memorise a jockey’s col- For non-purists, however, 1938 and 1952. building towards a crescendo as guess it turned out a little more ours from a race programme. Collmus will forever be linked Victory today would cement he continued, “Mywifenosevry- than that.” “I call off an IPad now instead of like an old married couple Baff ert’s claim to be the greatest thing in front, to the outside an actual printed programme. to Thewifenosevrything and US trainer of his generation. Thewifedoesntknow! Mywifeno- CONTROLLING HEARTRATE “I draw all the jockey silks myself Thewifedoesntknow, although, He is one of only two trainers sevrything! Thewifedoesnt- Collmus will have a more serious right next to the horses’ names the 52-year-old is a bachelor. to have won the Triple Crown know!” game face on for today’s race in so I know what they are going to “That probably makes it even twice, claiming the Kentucky And as they hit the line he Louisville, where his television look like when they come on the funnier,” he said. Benetton captain Dean Budd. Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes with American Pharoah in 2015 and Justify in 2018. predictions. “I don’t even think The Derby was just a race be- to single out a favourite amongst into the stretch of the Derby and Hill denies abusing son in NFL letter Those wins are part of a stag- about it (the record),” Baff ert tween other races.” his three runners. your horse is in contention.” gering haul of 15 victories in Tri- told reporters this week. “I just Wednesday’s withdrawal of Roadster, however, may Roadster, who will be ridden Kansas City Chiefs star Tyreek son in the chest or anywhere ple Crown races, with 15 more know what you guys tell me. I Omaha Beach has had a trans- emerge as the biggest threat to by French jockey Florent Ger- Hill has denied physically on his body, or otherwise in the Breeders’ Cup and three don’t want to be thinking about formative eff ect on how the Der- Game Winner, having beaten his oux, will have to do it the hard abusing his infant son follow- touched him in the chest in a in the Dubai World Cup, the things like that. by is likely to play out. stable mate by half-a-length in way if he is to be successful on ing the emergence of an audio mean-spirited manner or as world’s richest race. “I feel like I’d super-jinx my- The Richard Mandella- the Santa Anita Derby on April 6. Saturday, having been drawn on recording which prompted au- a form of discipline,” Pettlon The laid-back Baff ert insists, self. I feel lucky I won one Derby, trained three-year-old had al- “Roadster was a little late to post 17 on Tuesday. thorities to reopen a criminal wrote. Hill and Espinal’s son however, that he is not preoc- let alone fi ve,” Baff ert added. ready beaten two of Baff ert’s the party this year, but has done No horse has ever won the investigation, ESPN reported has been removed from their cupied with Jones’ record as entries this year, downing Game well with the Santa Anita,” Baf- Kentucky Derby from the 17th Thursday. custody after the boy suff ered he prepares for this weekend’s ‘THREE NICE HORSES’ Winner in the Rebel Stakes on fert said. “I’ve got three nice lane. “Somebody has got to be In a four-page letter sent by a broken arm in their care. Derby, where his three runners – “Nowadays the Derby is bigger March 16 and Improbable in the horses, and I just hope that turn- fi rst, no?” Geroux said this week. Hill’s attorney to the National Prosecutors investigating the Game Winner (9-2), Improbable than it was then. Now it’s pretty Arkansas Derby on April 13. ing for home all three are right “I think I have the right horse. Football League, the Chiefs re- boy’s injuries said that while (5-1) and Roadster (5-1) – are intense. Back then, horses ran 40 Baff ert has kept his cards close there. There’s nothing more ex- Sooner or later, someone is going ceiver addresses issues raised they were certain a crime leading the latest bookmakers times a year. to his chest this week, declining citing than when they’re heading to win from that post.” in the tape, which was leaked had occurred, they would to media last week. not press charges because In the recording, Hill’s fiancee, they could not be certain NFL Crystal Espinal, confronts who out of Hill or Espinal was him over his alleged physical responsible. A day after that mistreatment of the couple’s decision was announced, the three-year-old son. In the re- audio tape of a conversation Brady OK with pay, wife as breadwinner cording, Espinal is heard to tell secretly recorded by Espinal Hill: “He kept saying ‘Daddy appeared in local media. Reuters sell Wilson (Seahawks), Aaron player in football. “I think the like to play until he’s 45. Brady punches me,’ which you do On the tape Espinal tells Hill New York Rodgers (Packers) and Matt Ryan thing I’ve always felt for me in enters the 2018 season at the ripe when he starts crying. What that their son was “terrified” (Falcons) can take home on deals my life, winning has been a pri- age of 43, chasing a seventh Su- do you do? You make him of him. Hill responds by telling they’ve signed in the past 18 ority. And my wife [model Gisele per Bowl title. Is he getting tired open up his arms, and you Espinal: “You need to be terri- om Brady has made a months. Still, the New England Bundchen] makes a lot of money. of the pursuit? punch him in the chest.” fied of me too, *****.” habit of collecting Lom- Patriots quarterback said in an in- “I’m a little smarter than you “Not to this point,” Brady Hill’s attorney, Trey Pettlon, In his letter to the NFL, Hill’s bardi trophies and con- terview on Jimmy Kimmel Live that think. Actually, it’s a salary cap. told Kimmel. “To be at the top said in the letter to the NFL attorney describes that com- sistently rates as one of he’s comfortable being the No. 2 You can only spend so much and and give your team a chance to that the player had never ment as “inexcusable.” Tthe top quarterbacks in the NFL earner in his own household. the more that one guy gets is less win every season, you have to punched his son, insisting he Hill has a history of violent into his 40s, but he is not paid at “That’s a good question. for others. And for a competitive put a lot into it. I try to bring had only tapped him on the outbursts. In 2014, he report- market value by today’s standard. That’s usually, when I don’t advantage standpoint, I like to get my best everyday. i try to be the chest and told him to “man up edly punched and choked Brady is the 18th highest-paid want to answer a question, I al- a lot of good players around me.” best teammate, leader and also buddy” or “don’t cry, my man.” Espinal when she was eight player at the position in annual ways say, ‘That’s a good ques- Brady has no plans of cashing physically to stay prepared. No “He (Hill) categorically denies weeks pregnant with the average contract value at $15 mil- tion,’” Brady said when asked in his professional football chips, one wants someone that’s taking he has ever ‘punched’ his couple’s son. lion – less than half of what Rus- why he isn’t the highest-paid and stated again that he would up space.” Gulf Times Saturday, May 4, 2019 7 SPORT

GOLF LPGA Ryu shoots 67 for Wu enjoys home share of lead AFP Los Angeles

ormer US Women’s Open champion Ryu So-yeon tallied seven birdies and two bogeys en route to a comforts to lead in fiF ve-under 67 and a share of the lead with Ji Eun-hee and Anne van Dam at the Mediheal Cham- pionship. South Korea’s Ryu could have grabbed sole possession of the lead on Thursday but she closed her round with a bogey on the Volvo China Open par-fi ve ninth hole at the Lake Merced golf course. “It is not an easy golf course,” For the second day running his card had its only bogey at the par-four fifth Ryu said. “You have to drive the ball really well. Everything has to the fi rst four holes. The 23-year- AFP be really great to shoot the low old Dutchwoman stormed back Shenzhen, China score.” with an eagle on the par-four Ryu has six LPGA Tour victo- eighth and fi ve birdies to match ries, winning major titles in the morning starters Ryu and Ji. u Ashun credited home 2011 US Women’s Open and 2017 Van Dam has four wins on the comforts and “great food” ANA Inspiration. European Tour and is now try- for his scintillating form She has had some struggles ing to carry that success over to as he stormed to a second this year but she is trying to North America. Wround seven-under-par 65 to lead by two maintain a positive mindset. “It’s nice to fi nally get off to a strokes at the 25th Volvo China Open in “It’s really tough, because good start in the fi rst round,” van Shenzhen yesterday. when you’re dedicated to make Dam said. Wu carded a season’s best 66 in Thurs- your game better and better, and Ji had six birdies and a bogey. day’s opening round, and went one bet- then when you cannot really see “It’s a really nice golf course,” ter yesterday on his way to a 13-under par the result right away, it can be re- Ji said. “It’s really challenging on total. ally easy to get frustrated.” Ryu every hole, especially on the tee He rammed home eight birdies and said. “The thing is, it’s just golf. shot. dropped just one shot to the delight of a Nothing’s really guaranteed.” “You have to hit the fairways. large gallery of fans following his every The long-hitting van Dam If not, it gets into trouble on the move around the Genzon Golf Club lay- two-putted for birdie on the par- next shot. So the tee shot is really out. fi ve 18th to cap her round of 67. important. The greens are really Wu had registered just one top 40 fi n- Van Dam, who teed off in the tough, you have to read perfect ish in his eight previous 2019 European afternoon wave, bogeyed two of lines.” Tour starts. “I enjoy playing at home,” said a smil- ing Wu, who is the most successful Chi- nese golfer in European Tour history with three wins. Kuang second “It’s a great week every time, I have great Chinese food, and a lot of family and friends with me. It’s a very good feeling. youngest to Always happy.” For the second day running his card had its only bogey at the par-four fi fth. “I make cut on hit a bad tee shot on fi ve and I got a head- ache again,” he shrugged as he chases a second China Open title to add to his 2015 European Tour triumph. Finland’s overnight co-leader Tapio Pulkkanen took at run at Wu’s lead Shenzhen, China, AFP: School- late in the day but dropped a shot in near boy Kuang Yang grabbed a darkness on his fi nal hole, the ninth, to slice of golfing history yester- stand second on 11 under par after a 68 to day when he became the sec- add to his opening 65. ond youngest player in history Jorge Campillo, who is in red-hot Wu Ashun of China plays a shot during the second round of the China Open golf tournament in Shenzhen, in China’s southern to make the cut at a European form after a fi rst tour win in Morocco Guangdong province, yesterday. Tour event. on Sunday, had started the day tied with The 14-year-old Chinese ama- Pulkkanen and David Lipsky on seven- shoot that same score. I did try and I squeeze into the weekend and become the rollercoaster day. teur showed nerves of steel under but slipped back to third, three be- just missed one more birdie on the ninth second youngest player to make the cut at At one stage he dropped an astonishing to hole a treacherous 20-foot hind Wu, after a 69. which hurt me a little bit.” a European Tour event at 14 years and six six shots in two holes as a double-bogey downhill putt on the 18th green “It was a tough morning, in the fi rst This year’s event has 45 Chinese play- months. six on 14 was followed by an ugly quadru- to save par and card a second few holes it was wet and the ball wasn’t ers in the fi eld, and one of the young- “I’m too happy I have no words to de- ple-bogey eight at the 15th. successive round of one-under- going very far so I hung in there,” said est made it into the weekend as one of a scribe it,” beamed Kuang who is less than Having started his round on the 10th, par 71 at the Volvo China Open. the frustrated Spaniard, who carded four record 11 home players making the cut — a month older than compatriot Guan the world number 39 then reeled off fi ve The knee-knocker edged Kuang birdies, and a bogey at the 13th. and grabbed a little slice of history. Tianlang when he made the cut at the US birdies in a row from the 16th to repair into the weekend right on the “It was a good round, solid after yes- The 14-year-old amateur Kuang Yang Masters in 2013. most of the damage on his way to a 73 and cut mark of two-under par terday’s 65. It’s tough to come back and carded a second one-under par 71 to China’s number one, Li Haotong, had a a four-over par total. 142, and he celebrated with a fist pump and huge high-fives with his playing partners Louis FOCUS de Jager of South Africa and Japan’s Kodai Ichihara. “I’m really happy. It’s amaz- ing,” Kuang told AFP after the McIlroy cards 66 at Wells Fargo, tied with Dahmen snaking putt dropped into the centre of the cup at Genzon Reuters McIlroy’s second shot from the right Golf Club in his home town of Charlotte, North Carolina rough at the par-four 12th, where he was Shenzhen. stymied from taking dead aim at the pin, “At the 18th hole I was really had the gallery buzzing. nervous because it was a long ory McIlroy hit a brilliant recov- He threaded his ball between two putt for me,” he smiled after ery shot on his way to a share of trees, hitting a deliberate hook that breathing a huge sigh of relief the fi rst round lead with Ameri- could hardly have been better executed. and patting his fluttering heart a large group of his school pals can journeyman Joel Dahmen at His ball skirted a greenside bunker as he tried to stay calm. carrying a good luck banner. Rthe Wells Fargo Championship in North before taking the slope and rolling de- “I think my putting became bet- “To my dad, my headteacher, Carolina yesterday. liciously down to four feet. Never mind ter today so that’s why I could my mum and many of my McIlroy, the only double winner of the that he subsequently missed the birdie make the cut. family who came out,” said the event at Quail Hollow, where he once putt. “I just tried my best and softly-spoken teenager, “I want shot 61, was at home at his happy hunt- “I probably didn’t deserve to make the although today everything was to be thankful to them for sup- ing ground, picking up fi ve back nine putt after the tee shot,” McIlroy said of much better than yesterday, my porting me.” birdies on an idyllic spring afternoon in the three-wood that got him into trouble score was the same.” He goes into the weekend 11 Charlotte. in the fi rst place. Kuang’s heroics have only shots adrift of the leader, coun- The Northern Irishman missed a good “I said to my caddie Harry (before the been eclipsed in history by an- tryman and 2015 China Open birdie chance at the last and settled for a second shot): ‘Is left bunker OK?’ other Chinese golfing prodigy, winner Wu Ashun fi ve-under 66, a score matched by Dah- Rory McIlroy of “That’s where I assumed it was going Guan Tianlang, who was just But Kuang has already bettered men, who was bogey-free. Northern Ireland to go but it came out perfect, had a lit- one month younger when he the performance this week of They headed a large group including lines up a putt on tle more cut on it than I thought it would made the cut at the 2013 US the China Open’s only double American Patrick Reed by one stroke, Thursday. out of the rough, took a nice couple of Masters. champion. while defending champion Jason Day of hops and got up there pretty close.” “I’m too happy I have no words France’s Alexander Levy, the Australia was two back. McIlroy was the best player in the to describe it,” Kuang beamed 2014 and 2017 winner, carded a Two days before his 30th birthday, world for the fi rst three months of 2019 after being roared on by a huge second-round 75 to finish three- McIlroy did not quite fi re on all cylin- — score well without being at the top of managed my game well, scrambled well but could hardly have picked a worse gallery of fans which included over par and will not be playing ders, but managed to do what he says his game. (and) it added up to a good score at the place than Augusta National for his his family, his headteacher and at the weekend. has elevated his performances this year “I didn’t play my best today, but I end of the day,” he told reporters. shoddiest performance of the year.

TENNIS Madrid favourite Osaka recaptures her spark AFP gart where she reached the semi-fi nal could fully rest, but it’s not painful, so I pion — and a third-round loss in Miami. All three of Osaka’s career titles so far for it to be a good point and I don’t have Madrid last week. think it’s looking good.” She hired Jermaine Jenkins as her have come on hard-courts but she be- to play perfectly to win, so I think I was The world number one was forced to Seeking her fi rst title on clay, Osaka coach ahead of Indian Wells, and says lieves she’s been successfully adjusting able to do that. withdraw ahead of her semi-fi nal against opens against 2016 runner-up Dominika she feels like Stuttgart has got her back her mentality on clay in order to contend “I was a bit sad I couldn’t continue that fter a week of training on the Anett Kontaveit at the German tourna- Cibulkova in Madrid. on track. at Roland Garros. way of thinking because I had to with- clay courts of the Rafa Nadal ment but was seen hitting at Madrid’s Following a second consecutive Grand “I think in Stuttgart, I did pretty well,” “I think it’s fi tness and also mental. draw but hopefully I can keep it here.” Academy in Mallorca, Naomi Caja Magica yesterday, and says she’s Slam triumph at the Australian Open in she said. Because last year I thought the number Osaka said she was impressed by Nad- Osaka feels she’s rediscovered pain-free. January, the 21-year-old Osaka lost some “I played two really hard matches and I one thing I could have improved on, on al’s academy during her training block theA form that had been missing since her “I haven’t served up until today and momentum. think that I just was able to turn a switch clay, is just prolonging the point, or like there, despite her shyness in meeting the Australian Open triumph in January. basically I was just resting it,” Osaka told The Japanese-Haitian star parted on that I haven’t been able to since the accepting when I have to back off being Spanish 17-time Grand Slam champion. The top seed at the Madrid Open this reporters in the Spanish capital yester- ways with her coach Sascha Bajin and Australian [Open]. aggressive,” she said. “He’s a really nice person, he was sort week, Osaka says she’s ready to return to day. suff ered an opening round defeat in Du- “It was really fun actually, those “So then when I played Donna (Vekic of the one talking more than me, which action and isn’t too concerned about the “Of course I hit ground strokes for bai, a fourth-round exit in Indian Wells matches, so I’m really looking forward to in Stuttgart)... I just remember telling you can kind of tell that that would hap- abdominal injury she sustained in Stutt- the past three days because it’s not like I — where she was the defending cham- my next one,” added Osaka. myself that I don’t have to hit a winner pen,” she said.

Saturday, May 4, 2019 GULF TIMES FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT The importance of taking initiative on and off the pitch ‘Generation Amazing has built 28 community football pitches across the Middle East and Asia, creating programmes which empower and educate young people to become leaders in their communities through the beautiful game’

By Xavi Hernández

ootball is an incredible tool to bring people together and change lives for the better. Last month I had the privilege ofF visiting India for the fi rst time, and I was inspired by the story of Umesh Rathod, the football-crazy 15-year-old that I met in Mumbai. Umesh faces daily diffi culties in the slum community where he lives, where access to water is limited and some children are sent to work and forced out of education from an early age to sup- port their families. His parents insisted that Umesh stays in school and encouraged him to follow his passion to play football. He introduced me to his family and showed me his house, his medals and his trophies. He was very happy about the visit, and the same went for me. I could tell almost instantly that he has the right attitude and character to deal with any situation, and football will help him greatly. Our encounter in Mumbai was just one example of how Generation Amazing, the human and social legacy programme initiated during Qatar’s successful bid SC Global Ambassador Xavi Hernandez visited a Generation Amazing site in Mumbai to mark the construction of a new community pitch and take part in a game of football with programme participants and for the FIFA World Cup in 2010, is using youth ambassadors from across India. the power of football to positively im- pact lives and create sustainable social world. It has been a fantastic end to my through the infl uence of Johan Cru- development in communities such as the playing career here in Qatar. Winning yff , La Masia and the Barcelona way of one where Umesh lives. the Qatar Stars League last month was playing football. I love to see teams tak- In Mumbai, we inaugurated the con- the title which was missing. Since I ar- ing the initiative on the pitch, playing struction of a Generation Amazing rived here, we have won everything and attacking football and going back to the community football pitch which will only the league was missing, so I’m very essence of what we all love about this serve him and those living in the area, happy for this fantastic Al Sadd team, game since our childhood days; having including Poonam, a 19-year-old fe- which worked so hard and deservedly possession of the football. male football player who is giving back won the title. I have been privileged to achieve eve- to her community through inspiration- As a sportsperson, you never get tired rything that I was able to do over the al coaching sessions for young kids. of winning. Once you have won a title past two decades, and by extension it Ever since I was a child I have this you always want to win more. We have a is also our duty to take the initiative off consciousness that football is my pas- very good generation of football players the pitch and give back through foot- sion. It is my life. The experience to in Qatar, many of them from the excit- ball wherever we can. This is why my visit India was marvellous. The feeling ing young Qatari national team which work with Generation Amazing is so when you are a child is one of freedom, won the Asian Cup earlier this year. important to me, and I look forward to and to be able to contribute an oppor- It is a privilege to have been able to continuing my work with this wonder- tunity to these children in India makes play football until the age of 39, and ful programme, and the magnifi cent me very happy and proud. Football can now I would like to fi nish the season project that is Qatar 2022. change the world, without a doubt. on a high by winning the Amir Cup and Umesh is one of over 250,000 young In Umesh I saw the happiness which reaching the next stage in the Asian people we have reached to date. Gener- he has for football, which took me back Champions League. This is my last ation Amazing has built 28 community in time, to the sensation of wanting to season as a player, but I am already ex- football pitches across the Middle East succeed in football. Over the coming cited for what the near future holds as and Asia, creating programmes which four weeks, I will be lacing my boots a coach. empower and educate young people for the last games of an unforgettable You will see that my coaching phi- to become leaders in their communi- career which has spanned over 21 years losophy refl ects the style which we ties through the unifying power of the and taken me to every corner of the were able to develop over many years beautiful game. Xavi says he was inspired by the story of Umesh Rathod, the football-crazy 15-year-old that he met in Mumbai.

AMIR CUP FOCUS Rayyan, Sailiya seal semis spots Champion Marquez bids to bounce back as MotoGP marks 300th race

AFP Madrid

eigning world champion Marc Marquez will be hoping to get his title defence back on track when MotoGP’s 300th race takesR place this weekend. Marquez’s crash and retirement at the Circuit of Americas last month meant the Honda rider left empty-handed and now trails Ducati’s Andrea Dovizioso, the leader in the standings, by nine points after three rounds. “Jerez is always a special race because race. I’m excited to get into race mode it is the fi rst in Europe and there’s a lot in front of the home fans.” of support from the Spanish fans,” Mar- Rossi has claimed seven wins in Jerez, quez said ahead of the Spanish Grand as well as twice coming second, but the Prix. “Of course we approach it the same Italian fi nshed 10th in 2017 and fi fth in as any weekend, with how tight the 2018. “I love racing in Europe because championship is we must make the most the tracks are fantastic, and I know of every moment on track. The time them very well,” said Rossi. “Jerez has between America and here has seemed been a diffi cult track for Yamaha in the Al Rayyan players celebrate after their win over Al Arabi in the Amir Cup quarter-final yesterday at Grand longer than ever and I’m looking for- last two years, but we did well at the last Hamad Stadium. PICTURES: Shemeer Rasheed Al Sailiya staved off a late challenge from Al Ahli. ward to getting back out on my bike.” two races, so it will be very interesting Fellow Spaniard and Honda team- to see if we can be strong there as well.” By Sports Reporter Sadd had beaten Al Gharafa, while vas, who slotted home with just three Abdelkader Elias in the 39th minute. mate Jorge Lorenzo is also looking to Doha Duhail overcame Al Shahania. The fi - minutes remaining. In the 64th minute, Mohamed Mu- make up for lost time at the Circuito PETRUCCI TOPS PRACTICE nal will be played at the newly-built Al In the ensuing penalties, Al Arabi dether made it 2-0, when once again de Jerez, where he is a fi ve-time winner Ducati’s Danilo Petrucci yesterday Wakrah Stadium on May 16. had a disastrous start with both Bony Elias played a wonderful pass to his and hoping for a successful return after topped free practice for the Spanish l Rayyan and Al Sailiya com- Yesterday, Rayyan and Arabi were and captain Ahmed Ibrahim al-Kha- team-mate. Fourteen minutes later recovering from injury. MotoGP ahead of Marquez on a Honda. pleted the semi-fi nal line up locked at 2-2 after a pulsating en- faji off target. Diego Jardel and Vic- Sailiya were 3-0 up when Syrian Fahad Between Dovizioso and Marquez are Italian Petrucci clocked 1min 37.909sec for the prestigious Amir Cup counter with both teams going all out tor Vazquez did fi nd the net but with Yousef found the net. Yamaha’s Valentino Rossi and Suzuki’s for his fastest time in the second ses- after winning their quarter- for a victory. Rayyan players – Tabata, Myongin Sailiya were cruising to the semis Alex Rins, with the latter winning the sion ahead of tomorrow’s race, 0.012sec fiA nal encounters yesterday. Rayyan Hosts Arabi went into the lead after Koh, Lucca Borges and Gonzalo Viera at this stage but Jonathan Porras Grand Prix of the Americas after Mar- ahead of the Spaniard whose best was needed penalties to overcome a fi ght- winter-signing Wilfred Bony con- – all converting their penalties, Arabi brought Al Ahli back into the match quez slid out. “I’m happy to go to Jerez recorded in his fi rst session. Petrucci’s ing Al Arabi after the match ended 2-2 verted a penalty in the 13th minute, went out of the competition in front of with a double strike in the 82nd and and fi nally start the European rounds, teammate and fellow Italian Andrea in full time, while Al Sailiya staved off but Rayyan equalized through captain home fans. 94th minute. Ahli went all out for the which are very diff erent from all the Dovizioso, the current world champi- a late challenge from Al Ahli 3-2. Rodrigo Tabata in the 36th minute. Earlier, Al Sailiya came through a equaliser in the seven-minute long in- previous races in Qatar, Argentina and onship leader, was third as Ducati and In the semi-fi nals, Rayyan will take Post half time, Arabi took the lead late fi ghtback from Al Ahli. Both teams jury time, but ran out of times. Texas,” Rins said. Honda shared the top fi ve placings un- on QNB Stars League champions Al again after Mohamed Salah found the started the match cautiously before The last moments of the game saw “Those are unique circuits but from der a hot sun and on a newly laid track Sadd on May 11, while Sailiya lock net in the 71st minute. Sailiya took control. They took the the expulsion of Sailiya’s Medhtar, now on, it will be very important to be surface. Two more free practice ses- horns with defending champions Al Rayyan, however, like in recent lead through Abdulqadir Ilyas, who who received a second yellow after a consistent. This circuit is very narrow, sions follow today morning before of- Duhail the next day. On Thursday, Al times found their hero in Gelmin Ri- fi red home after receiving a pass from lunging late tackle. so the fi ght will be very fi erce in the fi cial qualifying later in the day.