FOOTBALL | Page 3 RUGBY | Page 6 Barca stay top All Blacks aft er Real and beat Pumas Atletico share to clinch sixth derby spoils Championship

Monday, October 1, 2018 FORMULA 1 Moharram 21, 1440 AH Mercedes’ Hamilton GULF TIMES wins in Russia to go 50 points clear SPORT Page 7 FOOTBALL / AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Al Sadd aiming to be the ‘Boss’ of Asia for third time ‘We should work towards scoring a big number of goals in the first leg (vs Persepolis), so that it can benefit us in Tehran’

By Sports Reporter ambitions of qualifying for the Doha last-four stage, something that Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferreira is wary of. t’s not without reason that “It is very important for us to Al Sadd are known as “Al Za- have a strong strike force, as we eem” in Qatar. It translates have a crucial game coming up as “The Boss”, a deserving in the AFC Champions League. monikerI considering their ex- We should work towards scoring ploits in football, both nationally a big number of goals in the fi rst and internationally. Thirteen- leg, so that it can be of benefi t in time league champions, 16-time the second leg in Tehran,” Fer- Amir Cup winners and twice the reira said at a press conference kings of Asia, Qatar’s very iden- last week. tity as far as club football is con- The scoring abilities of Al cerned was driven by Al Sadd for Sadd are not in doubt. In fact, in a long time before the emergence six QNB Stars League matches of Al Duhail over the past fi ve they have played so far, they have years briefl y stole their thunder. scored a whopping 31 goals while It’s only fi tting, therefore, that conceding just three. However, Al Sadd stand on the cusp of glo- Persepolis are well-known for ry on the Asian stage for the third their defence and the hosts could time having entered the semi-fi - face a tough time cracking their nals of the lucrative AFC Cham- defence. pions League. It’s a tournament In 2011, Al Sadd had to go they won in 1988 when it was through the qualifying play-off s known as the Asian Club Cham- to make it to the group stage of pionship, and later in 2011 when the tournament. The fact they they beat top South Korean side went all the way under Uruguay- Jeonbuk Hyundai in the fi nals. an coach Jorge Fossati and won There is a great deal of pedi- the title was indeed the stuff of gree here and plenty of history, legend. too, to motivate the team as they Their campaign then was also prepare for a battle of attrition in aided by Iran’s Sepahan’s blun- the fi rst leg of their semi-fi nals der of fi elding Rahman Ahmadi, against Iran’s Persepolis tomor- an ineligible player, in the fi rst row at the Sheikh Jassim bin Ha- leg of the quarter-fi nal. Sepahan mad Stadium. won the match 1-0, but Ahmadi Persepolis, who are playing shouldn’t have played it as he had their second straight semi-fi nals, received two yellow cards with are the side who ended Al Du- his former club. Upon Al Sadd’s Al Sadd players and off icials gather for a photograph during a training session ahead of the AFC Champions League match against Iran’s Persepolis yesterday. The club presented a hail’s campaign at the quarter-fi - protest, the AFC overturned the Best Player of the Month memento to its Spanish player Gabi. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil nal stage, rallying from a fi rst leg result and awarded the Qatari loss in Doha to clinch the issue side the match with a 3-0 ver- also trained with the team al- Deniye Gedara. Sanjeeva Wella- nese side, Tianjin Quanjian, 5-0 with a 3-2 aggregate after win- dict. That helped them qualify though he is still doubtful. pada will be the fourth offi cial, on aggregate in the quarter-fi nals. ning the second leg at the Azadi for the semi-fi nals where they Al Sadd, however, have captain and Gamini Nivon and Rowan Suwon won the now defunct Stadium in Tehran. beat Suwon Samsung Bluewings Xavi at the helm and with Akram Arumughan additional referees. Asian Club Championship twice The top Iranian side would before accounting for another Afi f, Gabi and the prolifi c Bagh- Gautam Khar will be the match in the early 2000s but have only be much more careful this time Korean team, Jeonbuk Hyundai, dad Bounedjah in their line-up, commissioner and Chyung Bim once before, in 2011, reached while facing another Qatar team for the title. the task at hand is certainly not Yao referees’ observer. the semi-fi nals, before being in Doha. After all, you can’t push Meanwhile, Al Sadd stepped beyond them. The other semi-fi nals pit Ja- knocked out by eventual winners your luck too much. They would up their preparations for the Bounedjah is the top scorer pan’s Kashima Antlers against Al Sadd. have learned their lessons from tomorrow’s clash under coach in the tournament so far with 12 Samsung Suwon Bluewings in But having eliminated do- their match against Al Duhail in Ferreira’s supervision. All play- goals and the Algerian would be Kashima. mestic rivals Ulsan Hyundai in late August when an early strike ers attended the training session looking to once again showcase The teams twice met in the the last 16 and then edged past from Almoez Ali left them with yesterday. Qatar international his tremendous goal-poaching group stage, sharing a win apiece, two-time winners Jeonbuk on much catching up to do. striker Hassan al-Haydous, who skills in front of his fans in Doha. before Kashima ousted Shanghai penalties in the previous round In essence, Al Duhail’s fail- missed Al Sadd’s league match- Dilan Perera of Sri Lanka will SIPG in the last 16 in what was this season, they have a chance to ure to score more goals in their es against Al Rayyan and Qatar offi ciate the match, assisted by their fi rst ever knockout stage win advance to the fi nal of the show- Persepolis players arrive in Doha for their AFC Champions League home match put paid to their Sports Club with an ankle injury, Priyanga Palliya Guruge and and then eased past another Chi- piece event for the fi rst time. match against Al Sadd. (Twitter/AlSadd)

FOOTBALL Infantino has ‘support of Africa’ in FIFA re-election bid

AFP Infantino, a former deputy head egates, calling for “a real impact.” Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt of UEFA, was fi rst elected in 2016 According to reports, Infantino to succeed Sepp Blatter, when the was investigated by the FIFA ethics scandal that engulfed the govern- committee for interfering in the CAF frican nations would ing body of world football was at election when he removed leading support Gianni Infantino its height. members of the committee. He later for re-election as FIFA The next presidential election will sacked the chairman and members president, the head of be held in Paris in June 2019 and In- of the ethics committee, eff ectively theA continental football federation fantino has said he will stand. ending the probe. Ahmad Ahmad said yesterday. Infantino expressed his grati- Ahmad said that despite the fail- “I feel it is my duty... to an- tude for the African backing. ure of African nations during the nounce this support from Africa,” “It means a lot to me,” said the World Cup in Russia, where none Ahmad said at a special meeting of Swiss. “Since long before my elec- of the fi ve African nations made it the Confederation of African Foot- tion, I had said, and since I have to the last 16, the continent needed ball Executive Committee, which done everything, to make sure that “regular and increased” participa- Infantino attended, in Sharm el- the future really is Africa.” tion. Sheikh, Egypt. Infantino is believed to have “Deep analysis” makes it possi- supported Ahmad when he ousted ble to “see more clearly the various FIFA president Gianni Infantino the long-time CAF president Issa problems that undermine African (centre), secretary-general Fatma Hayatou in March 2017. football,” he said. Samoura (left) and Confederation Infantino described the election Ahmad said that participa- of African Football (CAF) President as a “vote of change”. tion (in the World Cup) “stabilises Ahmad Ahmad attend the 12th CAF “It’s about taking football for- some of the national teams of our Extraordinary General Assembly ward, it’s about making progress continent... and gives them expe- meeting yesterday. (AFP) together,” Infantino told CAF del- rience.” Gulf Times 2 Monday, October 1, 2018 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE Are Man Utd and Mourinho nearing end of the road? Languishing nine points behind leaders City, United face a battle even to qualify for the lucrative Champions League

AFP squad, because the basics are ers including Pogba, Nemanja London not being done. There has to be Matic, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis something said.” Sanchez — who was left out of United’s build-up to the match the squad against West Ham. anchester United are against West Ham was overshad- United have backed Mourinho a club in crisis and owed by the growing rift between heavily in the transfer market but Jose Mourinho is Mourinho and Paul Pogba, who their policy has been scattergun, seemingly powerless was stripped of the vice-cap- with January signing Sanchez Mto prevent a slide into mid-table taincy before their League Cup failing to recreate his Arsenal mediocrity for the 20-time Eng- exit against Championship side form at Old Traff ord. lish champions. Derby in midweek. Mourinho did not look too The Old Traff ord hierarchy It came after the French World despondent after Saturday’s re- preened this week after the latest Cup winner implicitly criticised sult but his attempts to shift the fi nancial results showed the club his manager’s tactics, imploring blame for two of United’s goals had earned revenue of more than United to attack more and as ru- onto the offi cials failed to take half a billion pounds for the third mours continued to swirl linking the spotlight off his under-per- year running. him with a move to Barcelona. It forming players. United appeared But United, who fi nished a dis- is diffi cult to see how both player to have turned the corner after a tant second behind Manchester and manager can work together poor start to the season, winning City last season, are going back- in the long term after such public three away games on the bounce. wards on the pitch — licking their displays of disunity. But a disappointing draw wounds after their worst start to United are anxious to hang on against promoted Wolverhamp- a league campaign for 29 years. to one of the world’s most mar- ton Wanderers last week came Mourinho’s men travelled to ketable players but all the signs before the Derby setback. Unit- the London Stadium on Satur- are that they are sticking with ed’s hierarchy may appear rela- day boasting an enviable record Mourinho for now despite their tively sanguine despite the poor against West Ham but came away desperately poor start to the sea- run but how long can they aff ord chastened after a 3-1 defeat killed son, which has seen them muster to wait before they reach crunch off any realistic hopes of a Pre- just 10 points from seven games. point? mier League challenge before the Pogba gave another under-par Defeat on penalties in the end of September. performance against West Ham League Cup leaves only two com- Languishing nine points be- but he was not the only player to petitions left that they can win hind leaders City, they now face disappoint in the late September barring a miracle in the Premier a battle even to qualify for the sunshine. United are lacking in League — the FA Cup and the lucrative Champions League, a ideas, short of inspiration and Champions League — and vic- prospect that will give the money shape, with many of the players tory in Europe looks an unlikely men sleepless nights. Former looking like square pegs in round prospect. Manchester United defender holes. United are already onto their Rio Ferdinand said the club face Manchester City and Liverpool third manager since Ferguson re- some “big decisions” over the have a defi nable ethos and way of tired as a Premier League cham- manager’s future after the listless playing but United — for so long pion in 2013. display in the capital. the standard bearers of swash- The club used to pride itself “There are some big decisions buckling forward play under Alex on its stability during the Fergu- to be made at United now,” he Ferguson — are painfully lacking son years as other clubs chopped said. “There will be conversa- in identity in Mourinho’s third and changed but they have to pull tions at the top level, about the season at the club. themselves out of their current future of the manager and the They have a clutch of top play- spiral of decline.

FOCUS SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP Cardiff stay in bottom three Gerrard warns Rangers’ title hopes aft er defeat to Burnley on the line aft er Livingston loss AFP Glasgow

angers manager Steven Gerrard warned his side could forget about winning the Scottish Premiership title if they suff ered many more repeatsR of yesterday’s shock 1-0 loss away to Livingston. Defeat left Rangers in sixth place and meant they were now eight points adrift of leaders Hearts just seven games into the season. Craig Levein’s table-toppers from Ed- inburgh travel to Ibrox next weekend and former England midfi elder Gerrard has de- manded a response from the Glasgow gi- ants. “Hearts was a must-win game whether we won, drew or lost today,” he said. “They are the team to chase right now, they have come out of the blocks fl ying. It is still early on in the season so we can recover from a result like this like we recovered from the Old Firm loss. But this can’t keep hap- pening. When we come and play teams like Livingston we have to try and take maxi- mum points, otherwise we won’t be in the title race.” id Vienna tomorrow. for another 180 minutes and wouldn’t look Promoted Livingston moved up to third Victory saw Livingston extend their un- like scoring.” with a victory that handed Gerrard just beaten league run to six games, with coach Meanwhile Holt insisted that for all Liv- his second defeat in 18 games as Rangers Gary Holt yet to lose since taking over last ingston had made a fi ne start to the season, boss. Dolly Menga’s 34th-minute goal was month from Kenny Miller. avoiding relegation remained the priority. enough to separate the sides as Livingston Their decisive goal against Rangers came “I’ll enjoy tonight like everyone else,” he moved level on points with second-placed from a free-kick with Declan Gallagher said. “But until we are mathematically safe, Hibernian, who are ahead on goal diff erence. and Scott Robinson involved before Menga that’s when I’ll start looking at what else we Burnley’s striker Sam Vokes (right) scores his team’s second goal against Cardiff City in the English Rangers have yet to record an away league scored from inside the box to the delight of could achieve. Make no bones about it, we Premier League match at Cardiff City Stadium in Cardiff , south Wales, yesterday. (AFP) win under Gerrard this season. Before they home fans at the Tony Macaroni Arena. “We were the favourites to go down. We are still face Hearts, Gerrard’s side have a Europa were nowhere near good enough in the fi nal the favourites. We could lose seven games in Reuters The home side’s direct style half. Taylor was allowed to latch League match at home to Austrian side Rap- third,” said Gerrard. “We could be playing a row. It’s early days.” Cardiff , United Kingdon nevertheless troubled Burnley onto a quick throw and cross to throughout, particularly from set the far post where Gudmundsson pieces, leading to one disallowed squeezed his header past goal- ardiff City missed a goal and a clearance off the line keeper Neil Etheridge. Chelsea defender Luiz loving life under Sarri chance to move out of before halftime. Murphy equalised with a the Premier League’s The long throws and heading composed side-footed eff ort London: David Luiz is relishing the enjoy- The Brazilian defender added: “Every every day. The season is long, it’s just the bottom three by conced- ability of skipper Sean Morrison from 15 metres for his fi rst Pre- ment of playing under new Chelsea manager single day he says to us ‘you have the best beginning. Let’s continue to play.” ingC two poor goals in a 2-1 home were particularly dangerous. mier League goal since a 12mn Maurizio Sarri and believes the positive job in the world, so you have to enjoy’. You Former Chelsea forward Sturridge’s 50th defeat by Burnley yesterday. In the 10 minutes before half- pound ($15.63mn) transfer from atmosphere at Stamford Bridge has contrib- have to try to do this with a big smile. Many league goal for Liverpool came in the 89th The visitors’ Icelandic in- time, Morrison twice won head- Norwich City. uted to the London club’s unbeaten start to people in the world don’t have this privilege.” minute and ensured the Reds remained un- ternational Johann Berg Gud- ers from corners at the far post He then forced Hart into a fi ne the Premier League season. Luiz helped Chelsea win the 2016/17 Pre- defeated in the league ahead of next week- mundsson headed the opening to create a good opportunity. He save from a dipping shot. The Blues’ opening seven league games mier League title in former manager Antonio end’s clash with Premier League champions goal in the 52nd minute from was penalised for a foul, how- But slack defensive work al- have yielded five wins and two draws, with Conte’s first season as Blues boss. But he fell Manchester City. Charlie Taylor’s cross but eight ever, before Murphy fl icked the lowed Gudmundsson to volley only a late goal from Daniel Sturridge deny- out of favour with Conte last season, while Hazard’s sixth goal of the season had minutes later Josh Murphy, who ball past Joe Hart and when he a cross and Vokes to glance in ing them a victory in a 1-1 share of the spoils injuries kept him sidelined as well. looked like giving Chelsea all three points had earlier hit a post, scored a headed square again, substitute a stooping header for another at home to Liverpool on Saturday that also Luiz, however, is finding life under another before Sturridge’s late intervention. deserved Cardiff equaliser. Kevin Long cleared off the line Burnley win to follow last week’s preserved the visitors’ unbeaten league Italian boss in the 59-year-old Sarri far more “Every point counts in the Premier Weak defending allowed from Callum Paterson. 4-0 success against Bourne- record this term. agreeable, while insisting no one at Chelsea League,” former Chelsea striker Sturridge Welsh international Sam Vokes Before that Murphy, cutting mouth. “Sarri is giving us a lot of happiness to is getting carried away by their fine start to told Liverpool website. to head the winning goal from in from the left, hit the outside “Back-to-back wins is mas- play football. We are trying to enjoy,” Luiz the season. “It’s important for every club to try to pick Gudmundsson’s volleyed cross. of a post. By the interval Cardiff sive,” said Vokes. “We needed it said. “He gives us a lot of confidence. He “We’re not going to win the title in this up points and these games are important, A fourth successive defeat left had had 10 attempts on goal to after a tough start to the season. shows us what he wants. He gives us the (game, against Liverpool),” he said of but even if you drop points in these games promoted Cardiff second bot- Burnley’s one — they fi nished We knew it would be tough and details about the game. He works hard in a match where Eden Hazard had given it’s about having the consistency throughout tom with two points from seven with 19 against three — but a lack it was a battle. We came out in every situation. And also as a human he’s a Chelsea the lead. “We tried to do our best to the whole season because this is just one games while Burnley’s fi rst away of concentration led to them fall- the second half and played a bit fantastic person.” win the game and we continue to work hard game in 38 anyway.” win pushed them into mid-table. ing behind early in the second more.” Gulf Times Monday, October 1, 2018 3 FOOTBALL

LA LIGA SERIE A Touchline tension Barca stay top aft er as Fiorentina add to Atalanta woes AFP Piatek arrived from Cracovia Milan this season and becomes the fi rst Serie A debutant to score eight Real and Atletico goals in the opening six games ensions fl ared on the since Karl Aage Hansen for Ata- touchline as Fiorentina lanta in 1949-50. He got his fi rst claimed a controversial after 33 minutes, adding a sec- 2-0 win over Atalanta ond three minutes later. Camillo Tyesterday to move up to fourth in Ciano gave promoted Frosinone Serie A. Elsewhere, Polish striker their fi rst goal of the season when share derby spoils Krzysztof Piatek became the fi rst he transformed a penalty four Serie A debutant in 68 years to minutes before the break. score eight goals in the opening Elsewhere, Torino got back Goalkeepers reign supreme to ensure the grudge match would finish goalless six games when he hit a brace for winning ways with substititue Genoa in a 2-1 win over Frosinone. Simone Zaza sealing a late winner Bergamo-based Atalanta trav- against Chievo, who look des- elled to Fiorentina’s Artemio tined for the drop next season as Franchi stadium desperate to end they sit bottom having had three a fi ve-game winless streak. But points deducted for false ac- their hopes were compounded counting. just after the hour when referee Federico Santander scored Paolo Valeri pointed immediately one and set up substitute Ric- to the penalty spot, refusing to cardo Orsolini as Bologna came consult the video assistant refe- from behind to beat Udinese 2-1. ree (VAR) despite Federico Chiesa Champions Juventus maintained going down easily from Rafael their perfect start to the season Toloi’s challenge. on Saturday with a 3-1 win in Jordan Veretout stepped up to their top-of-the-table clash with slot past Pierluigi Gollini after Napoli. Roma beat Lazio 3-1 to 63 minutes, and Fiorentina ce- move to eighth but 10 points off mented the win when Cristiano the lead. Meanwhile, Gennaro Biraghi doubled their lead in Gattuso’s AC Milan, struggling in stoppage time. At the fi nal whis- 15th, were facing a diffi cult trip to tle, tensions boiled over with fu- third-placed Sassuolo last night. rious Atalanta coach Gian Piero Sassuolo move second behind Ju- Gasperini confronting Fiorentina ventus with a win. counterpart Stefano Pioli before the pair were dragged apart. ITALIAN SERIE A RESULTS “He shouted at me that the Bologna 2 (Santander 42, Orsolini penalty was non-existent,” 82) Udinese 1 (Pussetto 32); said Pioli. “They gave a penalty Chievo 0 Torino 1 (Zaza 88); against us for a fi ngertip against Fiorentina 2 (Veretout 63-pen, Inter, so this time they gave one in our favour for light contact,” Biraghi 90+4) Atalanta 0; added Pioli, whose side lost to Frosinone 1 (Ciano 41-pen) Inter Milan midweek. “We were tenacious, a little lucky.” Genoa 2 (Piatek 33, 36) Fiorentina have 13 points from Played Saturday: Roma 3 (Pel- Real Madrid’s Nacho goes down seven games, eight behind lead- legrini 45, Kolarov 71, Fazio 86) after a challenge from Atletico ers Juventus, with Atalanta now Lazio 1 (Immobile 67); Juventus Madrid’s Juanfran during the six games without a win and one 3 (Mandzukic 26, 49, Bonucci La Liga Santander match in Madrid point above the relegation zone. 76) Napoli 1 (Mertens 10); Inter on Saturday night. (Reuters) Polish new boy Piatek scored Milan 2 (Martínez 12, Politano 89) a quick-fi re fi rst-half brace to Cagliari 0 bring his tally to eight goals in Playing today: six appearances as Genoa, with a Sampdoria v game in hand, moved up to sixth. SPAL (1830 GMT)

Cameroon insists it will be

AFP goalkeeper in the world. Courtois spent Valladolid a 1-0 win at his parent club video assistant referee confi rmed a foul ready to host Cup of Nations Madrid three seasons at Atletico on loan from Villarreal yesterday with a superb volley on Stuani took place inside the area, not Chelsea but this was his fi rst Madrid der- which takes the La Liga newcomers pro- outside, and the Uruguayan netted his Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt: A top being wrong that Cameroon by for Real. visionally eighth in the table. sixth goal Cameroon football off icial said will be ready. arcelona slipped up for the third He made the most of it, saving when Earlier Girona drew 1-1 at Huesca with of the season from the spot. yesterday his nation “will be “The delay will be made up,” time in a week but stay top of both Antoine Griezmann and Diego Costa Gonzalo Melero equalising from the spot Huesca’s penalty was awarded in simi- ready” to host next year’s Africa said Happi, the chairman of the La Liga after Real Madrid and had only the Belgian to beat. Bale could for the hosts after Cristhian Stuani sent lar fashion, with VAR correcting referee Cup of Nations, even though Cameroonian federation’s nor- Atletico Madrid cancelled each have won it for Real too but he sidefooted the Catalans ahead, also with a penalty. Adrian Cordero Vega’s decision after he the final decision has been malisation committee, adding otherB out at the Santiago Bernabeu on wide from close range towards the end of After winning their fi rst match on Thurs- gave a foul outside the area. Meteor dis- delayed. Cameroon’s hosting that the country will be ready Saturday night. the fi rst half and then had to be replaced. day against Levante, Sergio Gonzalez’s patched it to earn Huesca their fi rst ever of African football’s showpiece “no later than December 31”, the Real and Atletico began a pulsating Barca might feel spared but Real and Valladolid repeated the feat at the Estadio home point in La Liga, although they still event has been in jeopardy for deadline set by CAF in March. derby less than three hours after Barca Atletico seemed satisfi ed at the fi nal de la Ceramica. sit 18th, with Girona 10th. months since the decision to in- An inspection committee had scrambled to a 1-1 draw at home to whistle. Atleti maintained their resur- Villarreal goalkeeper Sergio Asenjo crease the tournament from 16 from CAF and world football’s Athletic Bilbao, but goalkeepers reigned gence after a miserable start to the sea- made a good save from Duje Cop in the SPANISH LA LIGA RESULTS to 24 teams. The Confederation governing body FIFA will visit supreme in the capital to ensure the son while Real steadied the ship following fi rst half, who also sent an eff ort over Huesca 1 (Melero 72-pen) Girona 1(Stuani of African Football had been ex- Cameroon in October to assess grudge match fi nished goalless. It means their hammering at Sevilla on Wednesday. from close range. In an afternoon to for- 37-pen); Villarreal 0 Real Valladolid 1 pected to confirm Cameroon as preparations. The Cameroonian Real second, level on points with Barce- “We have not won because we didn’t get, Gerard Moreno struck the post when (Suarez 53) host on Friday at their meeting league is currently suspended lona, while Atletico are just two behind in score but overall we have been very su- he might have sent the Yellow Subma- in Sharm el Sheikh, but instead because of funding issues fourth. Sevilla are third. perior,” Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui rines ahead, before later seeing Jordi Played Friday: Rayo Vallecano 2 (Tomas postponed a vote until the end and the federation is without Gareth Bale had to be substituted at said. “The match was intense,” added Masip save his penalty. 6, Kakuta 47-pen) Espanyol 2 (Iglesias 19, of November. It said there had a president. Morocco, which half-time with what the club confi rmed Atletico manager Diego Simeone. “We Suarez, allowed to play against the Granero 45+1) been a “big delay in the building unsuccessfully bid to host the was a thigh strain and will miss the Eu- had chances through Griezmann and team that own him, sent Valladolid ahead Played Saturday : Barcelona 1 (Munir of infrastructure” in Cameroon. 2026 World Cup, has lobbied to ropean champions match to CSKA Mos- Costa but they were saved by Courtois. by drilling home a well-executed volley 84) Athletic Bilbao 1 (De Marcos 41); Real But Dieudonne Happi, the replace Cameroon as hosts. The cow tomorrow. There was no letting up It’s a pity because we wanted to win but from the left of the box. Villarreal, 11th, Sociedad 0 Valencia 1 (Gameiro 36); Eibar interim head of the west African tournament will take place on on their part Real and Atletico as the two we leave with a good result.” wasted a perfect chance to equalise when 1 (Jordan Moreno 90+9) Sevilla 3 (Silva country’s crisis-hit football June 15-July 13. The tournament teams went full strength. Kiko Olivas handled the ball in the box, 47, Banega 59-pen, 90+4); Real Madrid 0 federation, said: “In the current used to be in January, forcing Thibaut Courtois came back to haunt SUAREZ EARNS VALLADOLID with Moreno’s penalty kept out by Masip. Atletico Madrid 0 state of things, I can tell you European clubs to release their his former club and Jan Oblak showed VICTORY OVER VILLARREAL At El Alcoraz, VAR was used to give Playing today: Celta Vigo v Getafe bluntly and without any risk of players in the middle of season. why he is considered arguably the fi nest On-loan forward Leo Suarez earned Real both Girona and Huesca penalties. The (1900 GMT)

FOCUS BUNDESLIGA Injured Bale to miss Frankfurt’s Rebic punishes bottom club Hanover AFP time, Florent Muslija turning in Bobby Champions League Berlin Wood’s cross to score a consolation goal on his Bundesliga debut. The visitors’ brief resistance was trip to Moscow roatian international Ante Re- crushed moments later, however, as Luka bic grabbed a goal and created Jovic danced through the Hanover back AFP another to inspire Eintracht line to squeeze the ball past Esser. “We Madrid Frankfurt to a 4-1 victory over have to support each other more,” Hano- bottomC club Hanover 96 in the Bundes- ver midfi elder Pirmin Schwegler said. liga yesterday. Rebic caused havoc in the “This is a bad situation, and we can’t run areth Bale has been Hanover defence all afternoon as Frank- away from it. left out of Real Madrid’s furt eased to a much-needed second win As cliched as it sounds, we need to sort squad to face CSKA of the season and lifted themselves away this out as a team.” Moscow in the Cham- from the bottom three. Gpions League tomorrow. Bale Hanover are rooted to the bottom with BUNDESLIGA RESULTS picked up a thigh injury during a meagre two points from six matches. Eintracht Frankfurt 4 (N’Dicka 36, Rebic the goalless draw with Atletico Evan N’Dicka gave Frankfurt the lead 45+1, De Guzman 59, Jovic 89) Hanover Madrid on Saturday and had to on 36 minutes, as Hanover lost the ball 96 1 (Muslija 86) come off at half-time. too easily in their own half, and Ndicka He will miss the reigning Eu- latched onto Sebastien Haller’s looping Played Saturday: Hoff enheim 1 (Kramaric ropean champions’ Group G yesterday. header to score his fi rst ever Bundesliga 90-pen) RB Leipzig 2 (Poulsen 53, 73); game in Russia, along with cap- Bale has scored four goals in goal. More hapless defending from Hano- VfL Wolfsburg 2 (Steff en 12, Weghorst 59) tain Sergio Ramos, who was also his last seven games for Real ver saw Frankfurt double the lead on the Borussia Moenchengladbach 2 (Plea 7, omitted from the squad an- and any absence for a longer pe- stroke of half-time, Rebic twisting away T. Hazard 48); Nuremberg 3 (Behrens 28, nounced yesterday. Ramos sus- riod would be a major blow. The from Oliver Sorg to slot the ball past goal- Ishak 64, Palacios 78) Fortuna Duessel- tained a cut above his eye against club will be hoping the dam- keeper Michael Esser. dorf 0; Schalke 04 1 (Schoepf 11) Mainz Atletico but, despite briefl y leav- age is not serious, with a crunch The visitors started the second half 05 0; VfB Stuttgart 2 (Donis 19, Castro 75) ing the fi eld for treatment, was match against Barcelona in La brightly, but shot themselves in the foot Werder Bremen 1 (Zieler 68-og); Bayer able to complete the match. Liga approaching on October once again when Waldemar Anton al- Leverkusen 2 (Weiser 9, Tah 39) Borussia Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui 28. Marcelo and Isco were also lowed Rebic to break free in the fi nal third. Dortmund 4 (Larson 65, Reus 69, Alcacer said after the game Bale had been absentees from Madrid’s squad The Croatian squared the ball to 85, 90+4) replaced as a ‘precaution’ at to face CSKA. Marcelo has a calf Jonathan De Guzman, who tapped it into the Santiago Bernabeu and the problem while Isco is recovering an open goal for Frankfurt’s third. Hano- Played Friday: Hertha Berlin 2 (Ibisevic Eintracht Frankfurt’s midfielder Ante Rebic (right) scores against Hanover 96 in Welshman would be assessed from an appendix operation. ver clawed one back four minutes from 23-pen, Duda 44) Bayern Munich 0 the Bundesliga yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times 4 Monday, October 1, 2018 SPORT

CRICKET FOCUS Australia gain batting South Africa struggle practice aft er Lyon’s eight-for AFP before beating Zimbabwe Dubai

pinner Nathan Lyon fi n- Opening bowler Ngidi took three for 19 to lead a potent South African bowling performance ished with eight wickets as Australia’s top order AFP gained some valuable battingS practice for next month’s Kimberley two-match Test series against Pakistan in Dubai yesterday. outh Africa had some anxious At the close on day two of their moments before beating Zim- four-day side game against Pa- babwe by fi ve wickets in the fi rst kistan ‘A’, Australia were 207-2 at one-day international at the the ICC academy ground, trail- DiamondS Oval yesterday. It looked like ing their rivals by 71 runs with being an easy day for the hosts when eight wickets intact. Zimbabwe crashed to 117 all out, their Earlier, Pakistan ‘A’ were dis- lowest total in 39 one-day internation- missed for 278 after resuming at als between the two countries. 247-6, with Lyon taking 8-103 in But South Africa also struggled on a a marathon 39.1 overs. pitch of variable and occasionally steep Australian opener Aaron bounce, losing their fi rst four wick- Finch (54), Shaun Marsh (54 not ets for 58 runs before a hard-hit 44 by out), Mitchell Marsh (53 not out) wicketkeeper Heinrich Klaasen took and Usman Khawaja (36) were all them most of the way to the win. in the runs — a good sign ahead “It was a very indiff erent wicket,” of the fi rst Test starting in Dubai said stand-in South African captain JP on October 7. Duminy. “There was always something The second Test is in Abu in it for the bowlers. Even though we Dhabi from October 16. bowled well it was quite a tough total to The Marsh brothers added chase down.” 103 runs for the unbroken third Opening bowler Lungi Ngidi took wicket stand in the heat after three for 19 to lead a potent South Af- Finch and Khawaj put on 82 for rican bowling performance after Du- the fi rst. Pakistan ‘A’ Test hope- miny sent Zimbabwe in to bat. “It was fuls Wahab Riaz and Rahat Ali about keeping it simple, hitting your Zimbabwe batsman Kyle Jarvis failed to get a wicket. lengths and the wicket will do the rest,” (right) looks on as South Africa’s Paceman Waqas Maqsood said Ngidi, who was named man of the Reeza Hendricks (left) drops a catch and part-time spinner Iftikhar match. during the first ODI in Kimberley. (AFP) Ahmed grabbed a wicket each. Duminy’s decision to bowl paid off The day was marred by a head almost immediately when Solomon injury to Australian opener Mat- Mire was caught at second slip off Ngi- thew Renshaw, hit on the helmet di without scoring. Although captain by batsman Abid Ali’s ferocious Hamilton Masakadza made 25 and El- strike while fi elding at short-leg. ton Chigumbura hit 27, Zimbabwe were Renshaw was substituted out of unable to put together any substantial the tour match and the Austral- partnerships as the South African bowl- ian management said he was be- ers maintained control. “We were sur- ing monitored by medical staff . prised how it played,” said Masakadza. But to Australia’s advantage “If we had scored another 50 or 60 runs the shot ricocheted and was we would have been more competitive.” caught by wicketkeeper Tim Kagiso Rabada, Andile Phehluk- Paine. Abid, 83 overnight, added wayo and leg-spinner took two wick- only two runs more. Lyon was ets apiece to back up Ngidi. Zimbabwe happy at his form early on the may have been unfortunate when Craig tour. Ervine was the second batsman to fall, SCOREBOARD “I’m defi nitely confi dent, the given out caught behind off Wiaan ZIMBABWE INNINGS K. Jarvis b Ngidi 8 5-1-23-2 Extras (b1, lb1, nb1, w2) 5 ball is coming out of my hand Mulder when replays suggested the ball beautifully at the moment,” said may have missed his bat. H. Masakadza c Hendricks b T. Chatara not out 0 Total (5 wkts, 26.1 overs) 119 Lyon, who had a miserable last No decision review system is in place Phehlukwayo 25 Extras (w4) 4 SOUTH AFRICA INNINGS Did not bat: A. Phehlukwayo, K. Rabada, tour to United Arab Emirates in in this low-profi le series. Tendai Ch- S. Mire c Hendricks b Ngidi 0 Total (all out in 34.1 overs) 117 A. Markram c Chigumbura b Chatara 27 Imran Tahir, L. Ngidi 2014, taking just three wickets atara bowled an impressive opening in Australia’s 2-0 defeat in Tests. C. Ervine c Klaasen b Mulder 7 Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Elgar), 2-25 (Hen- spell, taking two for 12 in six overs to Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Mire), 2-28 D. Elgar c Moor b Chatara 2 B. Taylor c Hendricks b Rabada 9 (Ervine), 3-38 (H. Masakadza), 4-44 (Wil- dricks), 3-40 (Markram), 4-58 (Jonker), raise Zimbabwe’s hopes before Klaasen R. Hendricks b W. Masakadza 5 Brief Scores took charge. S. Williams lbw b Phehlukwayo 4 liams), 5-53 (Taylor), 6-62 (Moor), 7-86 5-96 (Klaasen) (W. Masakadza), 8-96 H. Klaasen c Ervine b W. Masakadza 44 Pakistan ‘A’ I innings 278 (Abid Klaasen hit 44 off 44 balls before P. Moor c Elgar b Rabada 13 Bowling: Jarvis 7-0-36-0, Chatara 6-1- he was fi fth man out with 22 runs still (Mavuta), 9-112 (Jarvis) C. Jonker c Williams b Mavuta 6 12-2 (1nb, 2w), W. Masakadza 5-1-26-2, Ali 85, Sami Aslam 51; Nathan E. Chigumbura c Rabada b Ngidi 27 needed. Klaasen hit two successive Bowling: Rabada 8-2-34-2 (2w), Ngidi J. Duminy not out 16 Mavuta 4-0-24-1, Williams 4.1-0-19-0 Lyon 8-103) vs Australia I innings 207-2 (Aaron Finch 54, Shaun sixes off left-arm spinner Wellington W. Masakadza lbw b Imran Tahir 15 8.1-1-19-3 (1w), Mulder 6-0-19-1 (1w), W. Mulder not out 14 Result: South Africa won by five wickets Marsh 54 not out, Mitchell Marsh Masakadza before he was caught in the B. Mavuta lbw b Imran Tahir 5 Phehlukwayo 7-2-22-2, Imran Tahir deep trying to hit a third. 53 not out, Usman Khawaja 36)

TENNIS SPOTLIGHT Nishioka claims maiden ATP title Money and muscle: India ahead

AFP Open after just 31 miserable minutes yester- in Asia as World Cup looms Shenzhen, China day. The Romanian never looked comfort- able against Tunisian qualifi er Ons Jabeur, AFP losing the opening set of their fi rst-round Dubai apanese qualifi er Yoshihito Nishioka match 6-1 before calling it quits. broke through for his maiden ATP The 27-year-old Halep suff ered a back singles title yesterday, outlasting injury a week ago in Wuhan and she cut a ith their power- seasoned Frenchman Pierre-Hugues forlorn fi gure after it ended her Beijing ad- ful batting and fast HerbertJ 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 in a gruelling fi nal of venture prematurely. The top-ranked Ha- improving bowling, the Shenzhen Open. “This is the dream for lep’s departure is another blow to organisers India are Asia’s best tennis players,” said Nishioka afterwards. “I in the Chinese capital, with Serena Williams Whope at the World Cup which believe this is the beginning.” missing from the women’s draw and several takes place in England next year. The 23-year-old Nishioka, ranked 171 in big names also absent from the men’s event. Even without batting star and the world, in the end played seven matches “There is a pain, I couldn’t move properly regular captain Virat Kohli, In- in eight days at the Shenzhen Longgang so that’s why I stopped,” Halep, who suf- dia powered their way to the Asia Sports Centre but his legs were full of run- fered a shock early exit from the recent US Cup title in Dubai, outlasting ning in a marathon fi nal as he threw himself Open, said. “I don’t know exactly what it is. Bangladesh by three wickets off at everything Herbert could give. I will go home, I will have an MRI (scan) and I the last ball in the fi nal. As the match clock ticked towards two- will see. I’m just worried now, I feel sad that “India proved to be well ahead and-a-half hours, Nishioka sealed the vic- I couldn’t fi nish,” Halep added, saying that of everyone,” former Pakistan tory on his fi fth match point — and looked as she feared playing was making the problem skipper Wasim Akram told AFP. though he could hardly believe what had just worse and she knew from the start of the “Their exposure is greater, they Former Pakistan skipper Wasim Akram says India have proved to happened. Twelve months ago, the Japanese match that she was struggling. have fi nancial benefi ts and the be well ahead of everyone in Asian cricket. player was stuck at home pondering his fu- Halep believes it is a diff erent back prob- money invested in their system ture after tearing an ACL. lem from the one that contributed to her like the Indian Premier League is total as 162 and 237-7 could not year ban for spot fi xing on Paki- He will now return to the world’s top 100 early loss in Wuhan. “I knew that there is bearing fruits.” challenge a powerful Indian bat- stan’s tour of England in 2010. after that injury had seen his ranking plum- pain, but I thought if I warm up during the He added: “It’s hard to predict ting line-up. Head coach Mickey Afghanistan shocked Sri Lanka met to as low as 362. “It was a very long run match, it’s going to be better, but it wasn’t,” eight months in advance but I am Arthur termed it a “confi dence and Bangladesh in the fi rst round to get here, seven matches,” said Nishioka. she said. sure Pakistan will bounce back. crisis.” at the Asia Cup. Every time Af- “It’s not easy. I’m very tired right now. I Holder Caroline Garcia survived a major They have some serious work to “It’s a confi dence thing,” said ghanistan bat fi rst and score 250- think my strength is my mentality and stam- Yoshihito Nishioka of Japan celebrates scare before defeating wildcard Wang Yafan do in both bowling and batting. Arthur after two defeats against plus they will cause problems for ina and I never give up. That’s my weapon.” with the trophy after winning the 7-6 (12/10), 6-7 (4/7), 6-3 to open the de- Bangladesh have an inspirational India. “These guys work every the rivals through Rashid who on Both players came into the fi nal unfan- Shenzhen Open yesterday. (AFP) fence of her crown. The 24-year-old from captain in Mashrafe Mortaza and day on their catching, but the Sunday became the number one cied and unseeded and both had yet to claim France defi ed a rattling roof and a surpris- Afghanistan is becoming a dan- minute one goes down, it’s kind allrounder in one-day cricket be- a ATP Tour singles title. Herbert had only he was a qualifi er. Tomic sank to his knees ingly stiff challenge from the home player gerous team.” of like a disease. We’ve got to sides being number two bowler in made one fi nal previously (losing in straight in celebration, kissed the court and then to labour into round two on Beijing’s hard Bangladesh, led by Mortaza, trust the skills to come out in the that format. sets to South African Kevin Anderson at the looked up to the sky as he milked the mo- courts after more than three hours of nervy fought hard to beat higher- end. We’ve banked the work. It’s Afghanistan’s best came Winston-Salem Open in the US in 2015) ment. Tomic’s fi rst ATP World Tour crown action. Garcia took the fi rst set on a tie- ranked Pakistan and Sri Lanka, time for that to pay off .” against a depleted India — resting while Nishioka had never before graced the since Bogota in 2015 will propel the world- break after 77 minutes during which the re- who both require some serious While Rohit Sharma will con- Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, big stage. ranked 123 comfortably inside the top 100 tractable roof — which was closed — banged work ahead of the World Cup tinue to challenge Kohli as stand- Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar and eyeing a spot at next year’s Australian noisily on occasion in the wind. starting from May 30. Fast-rising in captain, Sri Lanka’s Angelo Kumar and Yuzvendra Chahal — AUSTRALIAN FIREBRAND TOMIC Open. Once seen as a rising star, Tomic has The fourth-ranked French and Wang, Afghanistan, who had to qualify Mathews was not only forced to as they tied the game in the last WINS FIRST TITLE IN THREE YEARS had a number of run-ins with authorities 78th in the world, went to battle again in the for the World Cup, proved they step down but was also dropped over. Only a three-run defeat off Controversial Australian Bernard Tomic over the years, earning him the reputation as second set and Garcia came back to force will be a thorn for many teams from the squad for the forthcom- the last ball against Bagladesh de- won his fi rst tournament in three years yes- one of tennis’s bad boys. another tie-break. Garcia, who won back- with their wicket-taking spin- ing England one-day series. Pa- prived Afghanistan from a place terday — and in the most dramatic of cir- to-back titles last year in China, rescued one ners Rashid Khan and Mujeeb kistan have since dropped pace in the fi nal. “We have sounded cumstances, saving four match points to BACK INJURY FORCES NO. 1 HALEP set point in the tie-break but Wang made the Ur Rahman and a never-say-die spearhead Mohammad Amir who a warning for the World Cup triumph at the Chengdu Open. TO RETIRE FROM CHINA OPEN second count to force a deciding set. Garcia spirit. Champions Trophy hold- went wicketless in three Asia Cup teams,” said Afghanistan captain The 25-year-old defeated top seed Fabio World number one Simona Halep said was more ruthless this time, racing into a ers Pakistan had promised more matches. He has yet to play a 50- Asghar Afghan. “We need to work Fognini of Italy 6-1, 3-6, 7-6 (9/7) in a thrill- that she was “worried now” after a persist- 3-0 lead as the 24-year-old Wang’s fi ghting at the Asia Cup but failed to de- over World Cup — missing the in a few areas so we have time to ing three-setter in southwest China, where ent back problem forced her out of the China spirit was fi nally nullifi ed. liver, unable to put up a fi ghting 2011 and 2015 events due to a fi ve- do that before the World Cup.” Gulf Times Monday, October 1, 2018 5 SPORT

NHL A look at the biggest questions in Western Conference By Helene Elliott ference leading into the season: Tomas Hertl is coming off a career- Los Angeles Times HOW WILL THE DUCKS DO? best 22 goals, and Logan Couture, who CAN THE GOLDEN KNIGHTS DO IT Being swept by the Sharks in the fi rst signed an eight-year extension in July, AGAIN? round of the playoff s seemed to signal had a career-best 34 goals last season. he Vegas Golden Knights es- They won’t have the element of sur- it was time to move Randy Carlyle into Winger Evander Kane had nine tablished a blueprint for how prise, and they’ll start without stead- the front offi ce and hire a new coach. goals and 14 point in 17 games after San to run an expansion team, fast defenseman Nate Schmidt, who Instead, Carlyle stayed and is trying Jose acquired him from Buff alo and he becoming a huge box-offi ce was suspended by the NHL for the to install an up-tempo system. Fine fi t in well. Joe Thornton, 39, didn’t play Tdraw while they shocked the hockey fi rst 20 games of the season for testing idea, but under pressure, will they re- after he injured his knee in January but world and reached the Stanley Cup positive for a performance-enhancing vert to their old, penalty-fi lled heavy signed a one-year deal. He should help Final. Now, what do they do for an substance. In addition, restricted free game? They have a mobile defense, an on the power play; anything beyond encore? agent Shea Theodore missed most of infusion of skillful youth up front, and that would be a bonus. Their path won’t be easy. The West camp before signing a new contract. forward Rickard Rakell coming off a became tougher when the San Jose On the plus side: They acquired left career-best season of 34 goals and 69 WHEN WILL SEATTLE Sharks, loading up for a Cup run, ac- wing Max Pacioretty, who will re- points. JOIN THE NHL? quired defenseman Erik Karlsson from place departed free agent James Neal, Centre Ryan Kesler (hip) and winger The Seattle City Council last week ap- Ottawa. The Kings signed free-agent and they signed playmaking center Patrick Eaves (shoulder surgery) won’t proved lease and development agree- winger Ilya Kovalchuk, who has been Paul Stastny. Their speed and scoring be ready to start the season and winger ments with the Oak View Group, which out of the NHL since 2013, in hopes he should keep them in the conference Corey Perry is expected to miss fi ve is headed by former AEG executive can score enough to support their solid mix. months after knee surgery. The Ducks Tim Leiweke, to demolish KeyArena defense. could be very good if everyone buys in (except its roof) and rebuild on the site. Two young teams are looking to HOW WILL THE KINGS DO? and their kids produce ... or very bad if The estimated cost of $700 million will make turnarounds. The Edmonton A career-best season from Anze Ko- they don’t. be privately fi nanced. Oilers, a fl op last season despite the pitar (35 goals, 92 points), the revival Anaheim Ducks’ Cam Fowler (right) and Edmonton Oilers’ Connor McDavid battle The hopeful ownership group, led by exploits of NHL scoring leader Connor of Dustin Brown (from 14 goals to 28, for the puck in Game 1 of the Western Conference semi-finals at the Honda Centre WHAT INFLUENCE WILL KARLSSON Jerry Bruckheimer and David Bonder- McDavid, need help on defense but fi g- with 61 points) and Jonathan Quick’s in Anaheim on April 26, 2017. (Los Angeles Times/TNS) HAVE IN SAN JOSE? man, is scheduled to appear before the ure to be better than 12th in the confer- Jennings Trophy-winning season got Adding an off ense-oriented Norris NHL’s executive committee this week. ence. And the young Arizona Coyotes them a fi rst-round playoff exit. (no goals in his last 33 games, including left. If he can’t make big contributions Trophy winner to a group that includes If all goes well, the Board of Governors might fi nally have the legs and skill to No more excuses for Tanner Pearson playoff s). The Kings are gambling Ko- they’ll struggle, but having a healthy Norris winner Brent Burns and shut- will vote in December and Seattle will challenge for a playoff spot. Here are (15 goals), Tyler Toff oli (six goals after valchuk can score 25 goals in a league Jeff Carter is an immediate improve- down specialist Marc-Edouard Vlasic join the NHL for the 2020-21 season. the big questions in the Western Con- the All-Star game) or Adrian Kempe that’s faster and younger than when he ment. makes the Sharks formidable. Unless, of course, there’s a lockout.

MLB NBA Superstar LeBron will suit up for Lakers’ Dodgers clinch pre-season opener

AFP He arrives in Los Angeles with Los Angeles the Lakers desperately trying to regain their former glory af- ter several years of decline. The os Angeles Lakers fans Lakers have failed to make the playoff berth for 6th will get a fi rst chance to playoff s for fi ve straight seasons. see newly acquired su- perstar LeBron James 76ERS CHANDLER SIDELINED Lplaying in the team’s purple and WITH HAMSTRING INJURY gold in a pre-season game on Philadelphia 76ers forward Sunday – but if they blink they Wilson Chandler will miss at could miss it. least two to three weeks with a Lakers head coach Luke Wal- strained left hamstring, the team consecutive season ton confi rmed in comments on announced on Saturday. the team’s website on Saturday Chandler suff ered the injury ‘Like I said before, this ain’t over. This is just a little tease’ that four time NBA Most Valu- during the fi rst half of Friday’s able Player James will play in the 104-84 preseason victory over Reuters exhibition opener against the Melbourne United. Chandler San Francisco Denver Nuggets in San Diego. underwent an RI exam on Satur- “It will be more than one and day to determine the severity of less than 48,” Walton said of how the injury. he Los Angeles Dodgers clinched many minutes James might play. The 76ers said he will be re- a playoff spot for the sixth con- At practice earlier this week evaluated in approximately two secutive season Saturday after- James indicated that even with to three weeks. noon, using an RBI triple from a new team he didn’t think he Chandler, 31, played four min- TManny Machado to break an eighth- needed too much pre-season ac- utes off the bench, totalling two inning tie en route to a 10-6 victory over tion at this stage of his career. rebounds. It was his 76ers debut the host San Francisco Giants. “I don’t need pre-season after being acquired in a trade The Dodgers (90-71) overcame a rare games to get ready,” he said. with the Denver Nuggets over subpar eff ort from Clayton Kershaw to offi - James played just one pre- the off season. cially eliminate St. Louis (88-73) from con- season game last year for the Hamstring injuries have tention in the National League wild-card Cleveland Cavaliers as he re- plagued Chandler through- race. The Cardinals had won earlier in the covered from a left ankle injury. out his career. He averaged 10.0 day against the Chicago Cubs to temporar- Over the past three years he has points and 5.4 rebounds in 74 ily stay alive. Later in the evening, Los An- made just six pre-season ap- games (71 starts) with the Nug- geles tied Colorado atop the NL West after pearances. gets last season. the Rockies fell 12-2 at home against Wash- James, 33, joined the Lakers in For his career, Chandler has ington. The winner of the division will face July on a four-year, $154 million averaged 13.5 points and 5.4 re- Atlanta in the NL Division Series. deal sealed just weeks after his bounds across 10 NBA seasons. The NL West runner-up will meet Cavs were beaten by the Golden Melbourne United plays in with the Cubs or Milwaukee Brewers in State Warriors in the NBA Finals Australia’s National Basketball the wild-card game on Tuesday night. for the third time in four years. League. “I try to do everything possible,” Machado said of living up to expecta- tions. “I try to help everyone, help the young kids, help the ballclub in whatever way I can, bring my knowledge to the ta- ble. Like I said before, this ain’t over. This is just a little tease.” After the Giants had rallied into a 5-5 tie with a two-run fi fth inning against Kershaw, the Dodgers got their go-ahead run in the eighth after Chris Taylor led off with a single off San Francisco’s sixth pitcher, Mark Melancon (1-4). Two outs and a wild pitch later, Mach- ado went the other way for a triple high off the wall in right fi eld, easily plating Taylor with the go-ahead run. The Dodgers broke the game open with four in the ninth on consecutive two-out singles by Enrique Hernandez and pinch hitter Matt Kemp, an RBI single by Tay- lor, a two-run double by Max Muncy and NBA threatens to fi ne Cavs’ a run-scoring infi eld hit by Cody Bell- Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner, right fielder Enrique Hernandez (second left), first baseman Max Muncy and JR Smith over new tattoo inger, producing a 10-5 lead. shortstop Manny Machado celebrate after their win against the San Francisco Giants at AT&T Park. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Alex Wood (9-7) was credited with the The ink has hardly dried on rules prohibit players from dis- win after retiring all four batters he faced who lost for the eighth time in their last The Nationals took the drama out of JR Smith’s new tattoo, and the playing any commercial logos RESULTS in the seventh and eighth innings. nine games. the game early against Jon Gray (12-9). Cleveland Cavaliers guard may or corporate insignia on their Kershaw was more productive with Dodgers 10-6 Giants Eaton and Turner led off the rstfi with be facing a fine from the NBA. body or in their hair.” his bat than with his arm, contributing a NATS DROP ROCKIES INTO singles, and Soto drove them both home Nationals 12-2 Rockies According to Smith, he has been Smith got the tattoo in August two-RBI single to a three-run fourth in- NL WEST TIE WITH DODGERS with a two-out double to left. Soto fi n- threatened with discipline from and showed it off on Instagram. ning after the Dodgers had fallen behind Trea Turner and Juan Soto homered, and Cardinals 2-1 Cubs ished with four RBIs and scored twice. the league if he doesn’t cover He previously wore a Supreme 3-2. The staff ace went vefi innings, al- the Washington Nationals knocked the Brewers 6-5 Tigers Washington added to the lead in the up the tattoo – of a logo by a shooting sleeve during a lowing fi ve runs and eight hits. He struck Colorado Rockies out of sole possession Yankees 8-5 Red Sox second inning. Wilmer Difo led off with New York-based streetwear December game against the out four and did not walk a batter. The of fi rst place in the National League West a single, moved to second on a sacrifi ce company called Supreme – on Los Angeles Lakers. The NBA’s fi ve runs allowed were a career high for with a 12-2 win in Denver on Saturday Mets 1-0 Marlins and scored on Eaton’s single. Turner fol- the back of his right calf for uniform policy, stated in the Kershaw in 44 starts against the Giants. night. Nolan Arenado and Carlos Gonzal- Twins 8-3 White Sox lowed with his 19th home run of the sea- games during the 2018-19 collective bargaining agree- Joc Pederson and Yasiel Puig hit solo ez homered for the Rockies, who fell into Astros 4-3 Orioles son to make it 5-0. season. ment, warns that wearing the homers for the Dodgers against Giants a tie with the Los Angeles Dodgers with Gray allowed fi ve runs on seven hits in “So I was informed today that sleeve also is a violation. The starter Dereck Rodriguez, staking Ker- their fi rst loss in nine games. The Dodgers Astros 5-2 Orioles just two innings. Gonzalez got one back I would be fined every game if dress code does not mention shaw to an early 2-0 lead. The homers beat San Francisco earlier Saturday. Rays 4-3 Blue Jays when he led off the bottom of the second I don’t cover up my ‘SUPREME any such limitations for players were No. 25 for Pederson, No. 23 for Puig. Colorado (90-71) has clinched at least Reds 3-0 Pirates with his 16th homer, but Soto answered TATTOO’ on my legs during wearing tattoos, though. Rodriguez was pulled three batters the second NL wild card and can win its with his 22nd in the fi fth to make it 6-1. games!!” Smith wrote on his In- Other players in the league have Phillies 3-0 Braves into the fourth inning, charged with fi ve fi rst division crown with a victory Sun- Arenado hit his 35th in the sixth in- stagram account, adding three similar, but less controversial, runs and six hits in three-plus innings. day and a Los Angeles loss, or by beating Royals 9-4 Indians ning, but the Nationals scored three crying laughing emojis to the tattoos, according to USA Today, He walked three and struck out one. the Dodgers in a tiebreaker game Monday D’backs 5-4 Padres more in the seventh, two in the eighth sentence followed by a middle which noted that Marcin Gortat, Hernandez collected three hits, while in Los Angeles if needed. and one in the ninth. It was more than Athletics 5-2 Angels finger emoji. “These people in who is not sponsored by Nike, Machado, Taylor, Muncy, Puig and Yas- A loss Sunday and a win by the Dodg- enough for Strasburg (10-7). He allowed the league off ice are something has a Michael Jordan Jumpman mani Grandal had two apiece for the ers would give Los Angeles its sixth Mariners 4-1 Rangers two runs on fi ve hits and struck out seven else!” logo inked on him. Dodgers, who outhit the Giants 18-9. straight division title and send Colorado Stephen Strasburg tossed six strong in his last start of the season. Rockies League spokesman Mike Bass The Cavaliers will begin he sea- Hunter Pence had two doubles, and Joe on the road for the NL wild-card game at innings, and Adam Eaton had three hits outfi elder David Dahl went 0-for-3, end- told ESPN’s Darren Rovell: “NBA son at Toronto on October 17. Panik drove in three runs for the Giants, either Milwaukee or the Chicago Cubs. for Washington (82-79). ing his homer streak at fi ve games. Gulf Times 6 Monday, October 1, 2018 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Tyson laments lack of personalities in boxing Reuters I was always here and there good fi ght. I was entertained.” Fury on December 1. Mumbai so that’s why I was always Tyson became the youngest “I think Joshua right now,” in the papers and that’s why world heavyweight champion said Tyson when asked to pick it’s diff erent. These are really in 1986 at the age of 20 and the top heavyweight. he current generation straight gentlemen guys. I was was the undisputed champion “Tyson Fury hasn’t fought of boxers do not have really wild and a young kid until a stunning loss to Buster in a while. I don’t think he the wild streak that getting into trouble.” Douglas in Tokyo in 1990. has had enough fi ghts yet. He Mike Tyson wore like US broadcaster HBO said He served three years of a should have won more fi ghts.” Ta badge of honour during his this week it would drop live six-year US jail sentence af- Tyson also said he planned career and the former world boxing from its programming ter being convicted of rape in to avoid Bollywood parties heavyweight champion says schedule from 2019 due to 1992 and returned to the ring while in India and that he the lack of personalities in the dwindling ratings, ending a in 1995. would rather visit Dharavi, one sport has contributed to its 45-year association with the He then added to his noto- of Asia’s largest slums. decline. sport starting from 1973. riety when he bit off a chunk “I’m a slumdog. I grew up Tyson, who was in Mumbai While boxing seems to be of Evander Holyfi eld’s ear in a in the slum,” said Tyson, who to promote the launch of the on the way down, the sport bout two years later. was raised in Brooklyn, New Kumite 1 League mixed mar- of mixed martial arts is gain- Tyson, who had his last fi ght York. “But I had that ambition tial arts competition, told re- ing traction in the mainstream in 2005, picked Briton Antho- and I wanted to get out of the porters late on Friday that he with fi ghters such as trash- ny Joshua as the best of the slum and that’s why I’m here would be a rarity if he boxed talking Irishman Conor Mc- current crop of heavyweights. talking to you guys now. today. Gregor becoming household The 28-year-old Joshua “There’s nothing wrong “It’s just diff erent because names. holds the WBA, IBF, WBO and with the slums. I think the they are not the big person- Tyson said he enjoyed last IBO belts and has been in talks poorer you are, the better alities,” said the 52-year-old year’s boxing match between about a fi ght with WBC title boxer you are.” when asked why boxing’s pop- undefeated multi-division holder Deontay Wilder which ularity was on the wane. world champion Floyd May- would give him a shot at be- “Most of the (current) fi ght- weather Jr and the Ultimate coming the undisputed heavy- Former heavyweight boxer ers are very straightforward Fighting Championship’s weight champion. Mike Tyson (right) poses with guys. They are real nice guys (UFC) McGregor. American Wilder will de- his wife Lakiha ‘Kiki’ Spicer and they are good individuals. “I go to the UFC all the fend his title against Britain’s during their visit to the Taj “I was always in trouble. time,” he said. “That was a former world champion Tyson Mahal in Agra yesterday. (AFP)

RUGBY FOCUS NZ coach Hansen hails ‘unpolished All Blacks beat Pumas diamond’ Tu’inukuafe

AFP Ardie Savea, a late inclusion Buenos Aires at number eight in place of ill Luke Whitelock, was another forward to get special praise ew Zealand coach from Hansen. “I thought Ar- 35-17 to clinch sixth Steve Hansen die was outstanding,” said the called prop Karl 59-year-old coach who suc- Tu’inukuafe an “un- ceeded Graham Henry after Npolished diamond” yesterday hosts New Zealand won the after a 35-17 Rugby Champi- 2011 Rugby World Cup. onship title-clinching victory “Our scrum was outstand- over Argentina in Buenos Aires. ing and he controlled the ball The All Blacks destroyed the at the back and won us a lot of Rugby Championship Pumas in the scrums – a humil- penalties because of that. He iating experience for a South did excellent work around the New Zealand extend unbeaten run over Argentina to 28 games American nation once out- park as well, with and without standing in that aspect of the the ball,” the coach said after a sport. Loosehead Tu’inukuafe, match that gave New Zealand a hooker Codie Taylor and tight- 27th win over Argentina in 28 head Ofa Tu’ungafasi torment- Tests with one drawn. ed the Argentines, even though “We were better, but you do neither prop is a fi rst choice. not go from zero to 100 im- They started at Estadio Jose mediately,” said the coach of a Amalfi tani as loosehead Joe triumph that came two weeks Moody is injured and tighthead after a stunning 36-34 defeat Owen Franks was rested by by South Africa in Wellington. 2015 Rugby World Cup-win- “I thought our kicking was ning coach Hansen. better, maybe not as accurate “He could become great,” as we would have liked, but we said Hansen of Tu’inukuafe af- kicked to the right places at the ter New Zealand sealed a sixth right times a lot more than we title in the seven-year southern did against the Springboks. hemisphere tournament. “At times we played some “Karl certainly can scrum, good footy and at other times can lift in the lineouts, and we we did not play that great. But are starting to see other parts let us credit Argentina, too. of his game, too. But Karl will They are a diffi cult side to play be the fi rst to tell you he is against, especially here.” not the fi nished product. You In the fi nal Championship go looking for nice coloured fi xtures this Saturday, New stones and you turn a wee rock Zealand tackle second-place over and under it there is a dia- South Africa in Pretoria and mond. We just need to polish it third-place Argentina face and get the full diamond.” rock-bottom Australia in Salta.

COMMENT

New Zealand players pose with the trophy after winning the Rugby Championship 2018 edition after defeating Argentina at Jose Amalfitani stadium in Buenos Aires on Saturday. (AFP) Wallabies will turn fi ve tries to two to collect a bonus infuriated the home crowd. AFP All Blacks show ominous strength in Buenos Aires point as well. Codie Taylor appeared to knock corner, says Cheika No All Black was happier than the head of Bautista Delguy, but depth one year from World Cup fl y-half Beauden Barrett who big-screen replays showed the Reuters ew Zealand won the was successful with all four of New Zealander had been pushed New Zealand’s 35-17 win over was perhaps New Zealand’s best Port Elizabeth, South Africa Rugby Championship his conversion attempts after fi rst by an Argentine. French Argentina on Saturday sealed player on the night, further un- for the sixth time by missing four of six against the referee Mathieu Raynal correctly not only a third consecutive derlining their strength in depth. beating Argentina 35- Springboks. Argentina were awarded a try and Barrett con- Rugby Championship – and The All Blacks, who bounced nder-pressure coach N17 in Buenos Aires on Saturday as fi rst to score with star fl y-half verted from the touchline. Michael Cheika has a sixth in seven years – but back from the defeat against they put a stunning home defeat Nicolas Sanchez slotting an easy In-form Delguy was forced to also gave the world another South Africa two weeks ago to lamented Australia’s by South Africa behind them. penalty after six minutes at the retire after the accidental blow ominous reminder of their avoid a second consecutive loss failure to convert The All Blacks led 21-3 at half- Estadio Jose Amalfi tani. and Sebastian Cancelliere took Utheir chances in an error- strength in depth a year from for the first time since 2011, have time before a sell-out 50,000 But New Zealand reacted his place on the right wing. the next World Cup. The world been particularly clinical in the strewn Rugby Championship crowd and scored fi rst in the swiftly to falling behind and Argentina fi nished the fi rst champions were missing scrum in this Rugby Champion- defeat to South Africa but says second half through substitute within two minutes were ahead half strongly after All Black Son- several regulars in Buenos Aires, ship. They won all their nine his side will ride out the tough Patrick Tuipulotu. as winger Rieko Ioane scored the ny Bill Williams was sin-binned, particularly in the pack, with Joe scrums against Argentina to times and emerge stronger. Victory gave New Zealand an fi rst of his two tries. but could not translate territory Moody, Owen Franks, and cap- take their total in the five games Australia are bottom of the improvements this week and uncatchable seven-point advan- Fellow winger Waisake Naholo and possession into points and tain Kieran Read among those so far to 31 won and none lost. Championship after Saturday’s things haven’t been going for tage over South Africa ahead of came into midfi eld and played the All Blacks led 21-3 at half- absent and Luke Whitelock They are the only team in the 23-12 loss in Port Elizabeth and us either.” their showdown in Pretoria next a key role in a move continued time. replaced by Ardie Savea shortly tournament with a 100 per cent will fi nish there if they fail to The performance against the Saturday. by Ben Smith before Ioane cut Sanchez wasted an early sec- before kickoff after taking ill. record in the department, and beat Argentina next week. Springboks was an improve- New Zealand have 21 points, inside to score and Barrett con- ond-half chance to reduce the It made little diff erence as the assistant coach Ian Foster was With Australia only winning ment on the abject home loss South Africa 14, Argentina eight verted. defi cit when his penalty intend- visiting All Blacks recovered pleased to maintain their su- two of their past eight match- to Argentina at the Gold Coast and Australia fi ve with one ed for unmarked winger Matias from a shaky first five minutes premacy against a team known es, Cheika is under huge pres- earlier this month but the Wal- round remaining in the southern SONNY BILL BINNED Moroni fell short and into the to dominate a team who have for their scrummaging ability. sure to round out the tourna- labies continue to frustrate fans hemisphere championship. Sanchez seemed certain to cut welcome hands of Naholo in- still to record a win against them “It was great performance from ment with a victory and show with their lack of a clinical edge A shock 36-34 triumph in the gap to a single point from stead. The Pumas were being let in 28 games. “We got better our scrum and that is probably that they can be competitive at in attack. They dominated pos- Wellington this month gave a close-range penalty but, to down at the set pieces with the game management,” New Zea- a mark of respect because the World Cup in a year’s time. session and territory in the sec- South Africa a glimmer of hope the amazement of the crowd, All Blacks making life miserable land coach Steve Hansen said. “I we know it is a big part of the The latest defeat is likely to ond half against South Africa that they could overtake New fl uff ed it. Naholo changed from for the South Americans at the don’t know if we’re the finished Argentinian psyche,” Foster trigger more calls in Austral- but were held scoreless by Rass- Zealand and win the competi- creator to scorer on 17 minutes, scrums. product yet. They are a young said. “So it is something that we ian media for Cheika’s head ie Erasmus’s team, who avenged tion a fi rst time. stretching to dot the ball down Both teams scored two tries team that were out there for targeted, we wanted to do it well but the coach remained defi - their tight loss in Brisbane. But they failed to secure a bo- on the line after the scrummag- during the second half with large parts of tonight so it was and we got a good result.” ant. “No one wants to win more “I don’t think we dominated nus point as they ground out a ing weakness of the Pumas was Tuipulotu and Anton Lienert- pretty pleasing.” Backrow Savea The backs also rarely looked in than me, trust me. I think that’s the physical contest enough 23-12 win over struggling Aus- laid bare. Brown crossing for New Zealand was one of the best performers trouble, with one wing, Waisake pretty obvious,” he told report- but we were still able to manu- tralia in Port Elizabeth earlier on Barrett added the extra points and Barrett and Richie Mo’unga in just his second start and Ofa Naholo, grabbing one try and ers. facture a lot of opportunities,” Saturday. and the world champions were converting. Tomas Cubelli and Tu’ungafasi also stepped up to another, Rieko Ioane, scoring “But like I said before tough said Cheika. “I thought we cre- That result left the All Blacks 14-3 ahead midway through the Emiliano Boff elli were the Ar- excel on his first start at prop. two more to take his total to 20 situations come and then they ated some very good opportu- needing a win to secure the title half. Ioane struck again with 30 gentine scorers and Sanchez Another back, Karl Tu’inukuafe, in 19 games. go away and the tough peo- nities then we just couldn’t get and they outscored the Pumas by minutes gone, scoring a try that added the conversions. ple will stay. I think we made the fi nish on a couple of times.” Gulf Times Monday, October 1, 2018 7 SPORT

CYCLING Rainbow jersey dream becomes reality for Valverde AFP WINNERS FROM WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Innsbruck, Austria MEN Team time-trial: Quick-Step Elite road race: Alejandro Val- (BEL) eteran Spaniard Ale- verde (ESP) jandro Valverde ended Elite time-trial: Rohan Dennis WOMEN years of frustration to (AUS) Elite women’s road race: Anna fulfi l his “dream” of Under-23’s road race: Marc van der Breggen (NED) Vwinning the world champion- Hirschi (SUI) Elite women’s time-trial: Anne- ships road race crown yesterday Under-23’s time-trial: Mikkel miek Van Vleuten (NED) after outpacing France’s Romain Bjerg (DEN) Junior road race: Laura Stigger Bardet and Canada’s Michael Junior road race: Remco (AUT) Woods in a thrilling sprint for Evenepoel (BEL) Junior time-trial: Rozemarijn the fi nish line. Junior time-trial: Remco Ammerlaan (NED) The trio had boosted their vic- Evenepoel (BEL) Team time-trial: Canyon (GER) tory chances after crossing the summit of the notoriously dif- Adam Yates and Italy’s Vincenzo champion Peter Sagan had few fi cult Hottinger hill ‘Hell’ climb, Nibali and the last of the Colom- hopes of winning a fourth title featuring one steep section at a bians were dropped on the steep on the hilly circuit and after the whopping 29 percent gradient, gradients of the fi nal climb. fourth of seven ascensions of the to leave key rivals in their wake “I have no excuses,” said Alap- climb the Slovakian called it a day. as raucous fans rang bells and hilippe, who claimed the King of The race started in the pretty screamed encouragement. the Mountains’ polka dot jersey town of Kufstein, where the And despite being joined with at the Tour de France. temperature sat just above zero a little over one kilometre to go “My legs just couldn’t take it. as the riders set off through the by Dutchman Tom Dumoulin, I’m bitterly disappointed, but lush Inn valley. Soon, an 11-man the 38-year-old Valverde held very happy for Romain.” breakaway formed and opened a his nerve inside the fi nal metres Woods, a former ice hockey gap of almost 20 minutes. to race unchallenged to the fi nish player and middle distance ath- The two fi nal heroic survivors line, where he beat Bardet by a lete, only began cycling profes- of the original eleven, Kasper bike length. Spain’s Alejandro Valverde (also inset) celebrates after winning the men’s elite road race of the 2018 UCI Road World Championships in Innsbruck, sionally at 25 and this season Asgreen of Denmark and Vegard A breathless Valverde, who Austria yesterday. (AFP) won a stage on the Tour of Spain. Stake Laengen of Norway were fi nished runner-up in 2003, “I was hoping for a podium eventually overtaken 22km out. broke down with the emotion of gold medal and the (rainbow) team and we kept track of each there were no bikes or cars and I Valverde’s top-end fi nishing fi nish at the Vuelta (Tour of The peloton had upped the fi nally securing the rainbow jer- jersey. “It’s incredible, after all other and always knew where the only really knew for sure we were speed. “I should have attacked on Spain), but I fell. It tuned out to pace to catch the escape and sey – arguably the most prestig- these years, struggling for the guys were.” the lead group when Tom (Du- the hill. It’s easy to say what you be a blessing in disguise because with around 20km to go some of ious prize in the sport. world title and to fi nally get it. moulin) joined us,” he said. should have done afterwards, but I got the stage and now this the pre-race favourites started “This is my most emotional “Words can’t describe how LOST WITHOUT THE RADIO As soon as the quartet came what’s done is done,” Bardet said. world championships bronze to fl ag. Irish hope Dan Martin, victory ever,” said Valverde. grateful I am for the eff ort of This was not the case with run- into the fi nal kilometre the Span- “When you are on the fl at with a medal,” he said. “The fans on whose wife recently had twins, “I had two dreams, one was the whole Spain team,” said the ner-up Bardet, who was gra- iard had looked the most likely guy like Valverde you have to ex- the hill were insanely loud, with began to struggle ahead of the to win the Tour de France but it champion in reference to the fact cious in defeat. “Racing is far to win. Both Bardet and Woods pect him to win.” the bells and all the cheering, my last lap, then Simon Yates and was not to be, the second dream that no race radios were allowed. better without the radios, but I are stronger climbers while all- Pre-race favourite, Julian ears are still ringing now.” Michal Kwiatkoski quickly however is now mine, I have the “There was a great vibe in the was quite lost there for a while as rounder Dumoulin also lacks Alaphilippe of France, Briton Three-time and defending buckled too.

F1 FOCUS Vettel does the maths and decides Mercedes’ Hamilton he still has a chance

Reuters Hamilton has now won eight Sochi times this season, and fi ve of the last six, while Vettel – on fi ve wins – opened the cam- errari’s Sebastian Vet- paign strongly but has faded wins in Russia to tel could see his hopes due in part to errors made by of a fi fth Formula One himself and the team. world title fading with The German now has 256 theF Sochi sunset yesterday af- points to Hamilton’s 306. ter falling 50 points behind Japan is up next, followed by Mercedes rival Lewis Hamilton Texas and Mexico before Brazil with fi ve races remaining. and the fi nale in Abu Dhabi. Even if it sounded like Vettel won his fi rst title with go 50 points clear clutching at straws, the Ger- Red Bull in 2010 after over- man was not about to give up hauling a 31 point defi cit in the ‘It doesn’t feel great. Naturally, Valtteri has been an incredible team player today’ the fi ght, however. “I wasn’t last six races, while in 2012 he a genius in maths, but I was took his third crown despite Reuters clever enough to pay attention having been 44 points adrift Sochi, Russia to make it up myself,” he said of his then-closest rival Fern- when asked whether he could ando Alonso at one point. feel the championship slip- The chances of that happen- altteri Bottas did as he ping away after Hamilton led ing this year are remote, with was told and moved a Mercedes one-two in Russia. both title contenders having aside to let Mercedes “It’s not getting easier if we only one retirement each in 16 teammate Lewis Ham- lose points. races to date. Hamilton also Vilton win the Russian Grand Prix “I still believe in our chanc- won in Japan and Texas last and surge 50 points clear in the es; yes, obviously it’s not get- season before wrapping up the Formula One championship yes- ting bigger if you fi nish behind title in Mexico, a scenario that terday with fi ve races remaining. but who knows? It takes one looks equally possible at the The victory was a landmark DNF (non-fi nish) and then all current level of performance. 70th for the Briton, whose fi fth of a sudden things look diff er- “Today the feeling with the title now looks only a matter of ent,” he added. car was very good and I was time and who is 21 wins behind “Ideally two – which I’m able to push, but I just wasn’t the all-time record of 91 held by not wishing on Lewis but you as fast as the others,” com- seven times champion Michael never know what happens. So mented Vettel. Schumacher. Hamilton’s closest we need to stay on top of our “We lost some points dur- rival Sebastian Vettel fi nished game which maybe we haven’t ing the two last races and it third for Ferrari with Bottas, who been completely this weekend: doesn’t help, but we have our started from pole position and make sure that from where we plan to follow and hopefully was told to let Hamilton through are now, we focus on winning we can make some progress in after 25 of the 53 laps, securing the last races.” the races to come.” the Mercedes one-two. “It doesn’t feel great. Natural- ly, Valtteri has been an incredible team player today,” said Hamil- ton after one of his more contro- versial wins. In a race with little real drama, Max Verstappen cel- ebrated his 21st birthday in style by steering his Red Bull from the back to the front, dropping back to fi fth after fi nally pitting with 10 laps to go. Mercedes remain unbeaten in Russia, yesterday being their Winner Mercedes’ British driver Lewis Hamilton (right) and second-placed Mercedes’ Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas celebrate during the podium fi fth win in Sochi since the Ol- ceremony for the Formula One Russian Grand Prix at the Sochi Autodrom circuit in Sochi yesterday. (AFP) ympic Park circuit fi rst appeared on the calendar in 2014. DIFFICULT DAY STANDINGS AFTER RUSSIAN GRAND PRIX some signs of tyre blistering Russia plans to create its own F1 team Hamilton has now won eight The Finn, without a win this while Vettel was closing in. Mer- races this season. season, had asked the team over DRIVERS (FRA) 27, 15. Charles Leclerc cedes then decided to take action Russia is planning to create “The result of our meeting The Briton, who would not the radio, more in hope than 1. Lewis Hamilton (GBR) 306 pts, (MON) 21, 16. Stoff el Vandoorne into their own hands. a Formula One team, deputy with auto-makers should be have been able to switch places expectation, in the closing laps 2. Sebastian Vettel (GER) 256, 3. (BEL) 8, 17. Lance Stroll (CAN) Force India also invoked team Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak the creation of a Russian F1 with Bottas had he not pulled whether the order might change Valtteri Bottas (FIN) 189, 4. Kimi 6, 18. Marcus Ericsson (SWE) 6, orders to give Sergio Perez a told reporters at the Russian car,” he said. “We talked about off a slick overtake on Vettel back. “Is this how we are going to Raikkonen (FIN) 186, 5. Max 19. Brendon Hartley (NZL) 2, 20. chance to attack Kevin Magnus- Grand Prix. 2024, but I do not think that it after dropping behind at the pit- fi nish the race?” he asked, before Verstappen (NED) 158, 6. Daniel Sergey Sirotkin (RUS) 1 sen’s Haas but later reversed the Kozak said he had noted the can be done in that time, but stops, stayed in the car for some the answer came back in the af- Ricciardo (AUS) 134, 7. Kevin positions in favour of Esteban increased popularity of motor I think it can be done within a time after he parked up at the fi rmative. Magnussen (DEN) 53, 8. Nico CONSTRUCTORS Ocon when the Mexican failed to racing in Russia and the grow- decade.” fi nish. “Valtteri this is Toto. Diffi cult Hülkenberg (GER) 53, 9. Fern- 1. Mercedes-AMG 495 pts, 2. get past the Dane. ing interest in Formula One in Kozak said the presence of He then went over to thank day for you and a diffi cult day for ando Alonso (ESP) 50, 10. Sergio Ferrari 442, 3. Red Bull 292, 4. Kimi Raikkonen fi nished particular. “I know there are Russian driver Sergey Sirotkin, Bottas and commiserate. At the us,” said team boss Toto Wolff , Perez (MEX) 47, 11. Estéban Force India 94, 5. Renault 91, 6. fourth for Ferrari, after leading many lovers of motor sports of Williams, and the backing podium ceremonies, with Rus- whose fi nger had been captured Ocon (FRA) 47, 12. Carlos Sainz Haas 80, 7. McLaren-Renault briefl y when he stayed out longer in Russia and also wealthy of Russian financial institution sian President Vladimir Putin by the world television feed hov- Jr (ESP) 38, 13. Pierre Gasly 58, 8. Toro Rosso-Honda 30, 9. before his stop, followed by Ver- businessmen who are ready to SMP had been important. doing the honours, Hamilton ering over the ‘tactics’ button (FRA) 28, 14. Romain Grosjean Sauber 27, 10. Williams 7 stappen and Red Bull teammate invest in the creation of a Rus- Former Red Bull driver Rus- manoeuvred the Finn onto the before the order was given. Daniel Ricciardo. sian F1 team,” Kozak told Tass. sian Daniil Kvyat is set to top step alongside him. “Let’s discuss it afterwards idiot, should misfortune strike his German rival. Charles Leclerc, who will be He added that he had met return to the sport next year “It’s actually quite a diffi cult when we come together and in coming races, at the end of “Guys, how did that happen?” racing for Ferrari next season, potential partners at the Sochi with Toro Rosso while young day,” explained the Briton. we’ll explain things.” the season. Bottas had stopped he asked over the radio, before was seventh for Sauber and Autodrom, where defending hopes Artem Markelov and “He was a real gentleman to let Wolff later told reporters he fi rst in the race, with Vettel fol- regaining the fourth place on Magnussen eighth, ahead of champion Lewis Hamilton Nikita Mazepin are lined up me by. Usually I’d be elated but I took full responsibility for the lowing a lap later. Hamilton then lap 16. With Verstappen run- Ocon and Perez. triumphed for Mercedes in as potential drivers of the can understand how diffi cult it decision and would rather be came in and returned, to some ning a long fi rst stint, Bottas was Both Toro Rossos spun early yesterday’s race. future. was for Valtteri.” the bad guy in Russia than the bemusement, a fraction behind second and Hamilton third with on and retired. Monday, October 1, 2018 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE SHOW HORSE RACING Rihab Al Nasser wins gold at All Nations Cup Strong early entries By Sports Reporter Rihab Al Nasser has twice for races at Saint Doha won silver in the championship round at Arabian horse shows in Qatar, including at the Qatar In- Cloud, Longchamp ihab Al Nasser, owned ternational Arabian Horse Show by Sheikh Nawaf bin in February this year, and at the By Sports Reporter has run just once so far. Nasser al-Thani’s Al Qatar National Purebred Ara- Doha Guillemin has two more en- Nasser Stud, won the bian Horse Show in December tries in the race — Deryan and MaresR Championship gold at the 2016. Kanaan — while Damien de All Nations Cup Arabian horse Sheikh Nawaf was delighted uality Arabian racing at Watrigant has two entries — show in Aachen, Germany, yes- with the win and praised the Saint Cloud will set the Bel’Izam and Sea Bird Al Maury. terday. trainers at Al Nasser Stud after mood for the 2018 edi- Another Fourcy ward Al After making it to the cham- the victory, which came about tion of the Qatar Prix Haff anah and Sheikh Abdullah’s pionship round with a second- despite intense competition. deQ l’Arc de Triomphe, which re- Adiba both are coming off vic- place fi nish in the class for He said that Al Nasser Stud turns to a renovated Longchamp tories going into the 2000m race 11-year-old and older Mares, takes care that their breeding in Paris after a gap of two years for fi llies but will have a step up Rihab Al Nasser found favour quality is in line with the top on October 6-7. in class when they line up against from three judges in the cham- reputation enjoyed by Qatar in As many as 12 horses have been others on October 5. pionship round who placed her the fi eld. entered so far for the Qatar Ara- Al Haff anah has won her only for the gold. He added that the victory bian Trophy des Poulains (Group outing in France, shedding her With 18 points in the kitty, only adds to the responsibility 1 PA for three-year-old colts), maiden status at La Teste Buch Rihab Al Nasser beat Pusty- to continue shining with good while there are nine entries for early August, while Adiba, fourth nia Kahila and Galerida for the results at top level competitions Qatar Arabian Trophy des Pouli- behind Al Haff anah, won her championship gold. Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser al-Thani (centre) receives the winner’s trophy after Rihab Al Nasser won the across the world. ches (Gr1 PA for three-year-old second outing at Mont de Mar- Sheikh Nawaf was present Mares Championship gold at the All Nations Cup Arabian horse show in Aachen, Germany, yesterday. Sheikh Nawaf said that not fi llies), both the races scheduled san earlier in September. during the prize distribution only was it a great achievement for a day before the Arc meeting Al Shaqab Racing has two ceremony and received the gold sive championship success for with 19 points for gold. had gathered 92.38 points to but also that playing of the Qa- at Saint Cloud. more entries in the race — Gtnah medal. Al Nasser Stud after Anood Al On Saturday, during the pre- fi nish second behind Etnologia tari national anthem after the His Highness Sheikh Abdul- and Douhha Al Cham — while This is the second succes- Nasser topped last year’s edition liminary round, Rihab Al Nasser (93.19). victory was a moment of pride. lah bin Khalifa al-Thani and Ali Hamad al-Attiyah-owned Al Shaqab Racing both have Mashael will line up for E. two horses each entered for the Mikhalides. GOLF 2,000m race for the colts. Last year’s Qatar Arabian Tro- Marid, owned by Sheikh Ab- phy des Pouliches runner-up, dullah will be coming into the Fourcy-trained Al Ghashamiya, Saint Cloud race on October 5 has been entered for the Qatar on the back of a commendable Arabian Trophy des Juments (Gr1 Group 1 PA victory over the dis- PA for four-year-old fi llies) at tance at Deauville. Trained by Longchamp on the fi rst day of the Antoine de Watrigant, Marid Arc meeting. Europe regain Ryder had won the Al Rayyan Cup (Prix Al Ghashamiya’s Al Shaqab Kesberoy Gr1 PA) in August. Racing stablemates Al Naama Meanwhile, it will be a step up and Rkaya too have been entered for Didier Guillemin-schooled for Fourcy in the race, while His Neef, who had won a Group 3 Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin at La Teste Buch over 1900m in Khalifa al-Thani’s Celeste de September. Ghazal has been entered by Fran- Cup with dominant Al Shaqab Racing’s Amir Al cois Rohaut. Cham, trained by Thomas Four- Sheikh Abdullah’s Dabaab, cy, had fi nished fourth behind schooled by Qatar-based train- Molinari only European Neef at La Teste Buch but has er Alban de Mieulle, too, finds been entered in the race as has herself in the 16-strong entry player to score all five been his stablemate Shalaa, who list so far. singles display points at one edition FOCUS Reuters attitude it’s such a great thing. competition’s all-time leading Paris I should wrap them up and take scorer, his three points this week them to America for the next taking his career tally to 25.5 to one.” overhaul Nick Faldo and fully Garcia is all-time rancesco Molinari fi t- The home side, playing in justify Bjorn’s decision to select tingly took the glory France for the fi rst time, had him as a wildcard. as Europe regained the started the day 10-6 up, needing “I don’t usually cry, but I leading Ryder Cup Ryder Cup from the to secure four and a half of the 12 couldn’t help it, what a week,” UnitedF States in dominant style points available to win back the said the Spaniard. “It’s been a yesterday, the Italian beating trophy and extend their stran- rough year, but we fought hard. points-scorer Phil Mickelson to post the point glehold on home soil dating back I’m so thankful to Thomas Bjorn needed to reach the winning to- to 1993. for believing in me.” AFP tal. Only twice before had a team Stenson duly handed Bubba Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, France Mickelson conceded the 16th come from four down going into Watson his fourth defeat in four hole after fi ring his tee shot into the singles to win — the US do- singles matches, by a thumping the water with Molinari on the ing so at Brookline in 1999 and 5&4, and only American Patrick ergio Garcia became the green to leave the Italian as the Europe in 2012 in the ‘Mira- Reed halted the cascade of blue leading points-scorer in fi rst European to win all fi ve cle of Medinah’ — but another by beating Tyrrell Hatton. Ryder Cup history as his matches in a week — having not stunning comeback never really Noren and Dechambeau found 2 and 1 win over Ameri- won any of his previous six. looked on the cards. themselves alone on the course — canS Rickie Fowler helped Europe Europe were eff ectively as- Justin Thomas, Webb Simp- apart from 70,000 fans — as the regain the trophy at Le Golf Na- sured of victory when he teed off son and Tony Finau gave Jim Fu- fi nal match carried on to decide tional yesterday. as the Italian, Henrik Stenson and ryk’s team a glimmer of hope with only the margin of victory. The 38-year-old Spaniard, a Sergio Garcia were all dormie and early wins but then the European But even that match produced controversial wildcard pick by guaranteed at least half a point points started pouring in. a moment to remember when, captain Thomas Bjorn after a from their matches — with Eu- Thorbjorn Olesen hammered Europe’s captain Thomas Bjorn (centre) lifts the Ryder Cup trophy with every member of both poor season, passed Nick Fal- rope needing just one more. Jordan Spieth and fellow rookie flanked by golfers Sergio Garcia (left) and Rory McIlroy at Le Golf teams and all the support staff do’s previous mark of 25 points, to get his Ryder Cup underway. All three secured the wins Jon Rahm beat Tiger Woods National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, France, yesterday. (AFP) looking on at the 18th green, reaching 25.5 since making his He added a dramatic fourball and Swedish rookie Alex Noren — leaving the weary-looking Noren sunk a monster birdie debut in 1999. victory alongside Rory McIlroy completed the day’s action in 14-times major champion with a leave Europe on the verge. will surely be his last Ryder Cup, putt to halve the hole and win “I don’t usually cry, but I over Brooks Koepka and Tony Fi- style when he sunk a 40-foot stunning four defeats out of four sportingly removed his cap and the match 1-up. couldn’t help it. What a week,” a nau on Saturday morning, curl- putt to beat Bryson Decham- and ensuring that every member AMAZING SCENES off ered his hand to spark amaz- “You have to tip your cap, they tearful Garcia said. ing home a long birdie putt on beau on the last and make the fi - of the European team contrib- The three dormie games meant ing scenes of celebration on the outplayed us,” said Furyk, who “It means a lot but at the end the 17th to secure the point. nal European victory margin an uted at least a point. victory was secure but Ryder tee and amid the biggest galler- has cut a sporting and dignifi ed of the day, I’ve always said it — Garcia missed out on the emphatic 17.5-10.5. Ian Poulter, ‘Mr Ryder Cup’, Cup tradition demands a man ies in the event’s history. fi gure through what turned out it’s about the team and I’m happy record in the penultimate session “They’ve been amazing; all then got to smash who delivers the winning “This means more than ma- to be a tough week. that I was able to help. as he and Noren lost to Bubba 12 of them have been unbeliev- his fi st against the point and nobody has jors, more than anything,” said “We got some momentum but “I’m happy that I was able to Watson and Webb Simpson, but able,” said emotional European European crest delivered this week like Molinari, who won all four pairs the Europeans responded well help with some of the points. It’s he broke Faldo’s record in style captain Thomas Bjorn. on his chest one British Open cham- matches with Tommy Fleet- as they have all week,” he said. a bonus.” as Europe roared back to crush “They were so determined. more time as pion Molinari. wood in another European fi rst. “Europe did a good job on a golf Garcia had endured a diffi cult the Americans on the Albatros They set out to do a job, so it was world number After seeing his “The team spirit has been the course they know pretty well but year, missing the cut at all four course despite some early Sun- easy for me to guide them in that one Dustin ball splash into the best I have been a part of, it’s just they did a great job playing it. majors, but was still selected by day resistance from the away direction. They stood up to it. Johnson con- lake Mickelson, who been an incredible week.” They hit key shots and knocked Bjorn on the strength of his Ry- team. “This is such special event, ceded on the suff ered two de- Moments later Garcia beat in the clutch putts. But it’s been der Cup performances down the He said he felt good heading when you come in with the right 18th green to feats in what Rickie Fowler 2&1 to become the a wonderful week.” years. into the week after a morale- “It’s been a rough year, but boosting top-10 fi nish at the we fought hard, I’m so thankful Portugal Masters last Sunday. to Thomas Bjorn for believing in “Felt like something was hap- me,” he said. “I’m so happy to get pening. I played really well last the Cup back and in Paris and to week in Portugal and you know, I enjoy it as much I did.” rested a little bit which was nice,” The 2017 Masters champion Garcia added. arrived in France on 22.5 points “I needed that to play with from eight previous appear- the energy that the Ryder Cup ances, and combined with Alex deserved, and you know, I’m so Noren to thrash Phil Mickelson happy that I was able to play — and Bryson DeChambeau as Eu- not only myself — but the whole rope swept the Friday foursomes team, as well as we did.”

I’m one of the reasons we lost: Woods

A despondent Tiger Woods ted Woods. admitted that he “was a “I’m one of the contributing contributing factor” as to why factors to why we lost the Cup, the United States surrendered and it’s not a lot of fun. the Ryder Cup to Europe, after “It’s frustrating because we losing all four of his matches at came here, I thought we were Le Golf National. all playing pretty well, and The 14-time major cham- I just didn’t perform at the Europe’s Italian pion suff ered only his second level that I had been playing, golfer Francesco singles defeat in the match- and just got behind early in Molinari (centre) play showdown with a 2 and the matches and never got celebrates victory 1 loss to Jon Rahm as Europe back.” after his singles charged to victory. The former world number one match at the Ryder His miserable Ryder Cup had headed to Paris in high Cup at Le Golf record now stands at 13 wins, spirits after capping a magnifi- National Course in 21 losses and three halves. cent comeback season from Saint-Quentin-en- “It’s disappointing because I injury with his first title since Yvelines, France, went 0-4, and that’s four points 2013 at the Tour Championship yesterday. (AFP) to the European team,” admit- last week.