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Monday, December 25, 2017 CRICKET Rabia II 7, 1439 AH Ashes gone, GULF TIMES pride at stake for wounded England SPORT Page 2

CRICKET Qatar players train ahead of their match against Iraq in Kuwait yesterday. At bottom , coach Felix Sanchez. Starc out, Bird in for Boxing Day Ashes Test

AFP Melbourne

ustralia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc was yester- day ruled out of the fourth Ashes Test with a heel in- Ajury and will be replaced by Jackson Bird. Starc, who is Australia’s leading wicket-taker in the series with 19, bruised his heel bowling in Austral- ia’s series-clinching third Test win in Perth last week. There wasn’t enough time for him to recover from the injury to his landing foot, with team management offi cially ruling him out two days be- fore Tuesday’s Melbourne Test. While Starc had been optimistic about his chances of playing, Aus- tralia’s selectors took a cautious approach with their star paceman ahead of a key series against South Africa early in the new year. Starc said he hoped to return for the series-ending Sydney Test on Qatar vow to January 4. Last year Starc scored 84 with “It’s never nice to miss but it the bat and took a match-sealing would be pretty selfi sh of me to go in four-wicket haul in a fi nal-day win to a game not at 100 %,” he told re- against Pakistan there. porters. Bird said he was ready for his fi rst “It’s nice that we have won the se- Test in a year. ries and we can play it a little bit safer “I’ve been ready to go for 12 now. months basically,” he told reporters. stay aggressive “I think the discussions (with se- “I had a week in the Perth nets lectors) lasted about 30 seconds... working on a few diff erent things and it gives me a good chance now to with bowling coach David Saker. have a bit of time off it over the next “It’d be unbelievable to play an few days and give me a really good Ashes Test on Boxing Day.” chance for Sydney.” Meanwhile, wicketkeeper Tim Starc’s withdrawal continues his Paine is expected to play after joining run of bad luck in the Melbourne his teammates at training on Sunday Cricket Ground showpiece. He has after initially remaining at home in in Gulf Cup played in just one Boxing Day Test Hobart after his father-in-law suf- since making his debut in 2011. fered a stroke.

Next edition of Gulf Cup to be By a Correspondent Qatar scored three goals inside step-by-step to team’s win on Saturday, said: “We ar- Kuwait City the fi rst 18 minutes leaving Yemen - the end,” Hassan rived ready for this event despite the held in Qatar, AGCFF confirms known for individual brilliance from added. Mid- doubts that were hovering around the their players - in a state of shock. fi elder Ismail start (of the event). We have entered QNA In a statement, al-Rumaihi said atar coach Felix Sanchez “It was a great start. In the fi rst Mohamed, the championship strongly with this Kuwait City that recent circumstances neces- has said his team will take 18 minutes we scored three goals who played a win. We will try to maintain the inten- sitated the move of the 23rd an aggressive approach in and kept on creating chances for key role sity and we aim to defend our title we edition to Kuwait after it’s suspen- Qthe remaining two prelimi- more goals,” Sanchez in his won three years ago.” rab Gulf Cup Football sion by FIFA was lifted. nary round matches of the Gulf Cup said. “Our target He added: “In general, there is no Federation (AGCFF) It was agreed much earlier that against Iraq and Bahrain. was to start easy game and we have to enter every Secretary-General Jas- the 24th edition will be held in Qatar, the defending champions, well to show match as a fi nal. We can’t be thinking A sim al-Rumaihi has con- Qatar and this is not subject to crushed Yemen 4-0 in their opening we want about other competitors but we need firmed that the 24th edition of change or modification, al-Ru- match on Saturday, lifting the mood to win the to focus on our performances, our the Gulf Cup will be held in Qatar. maihi said. in the Al Anabi camp. game. I think strengths.” “We achieved our target (of winning in the fi rst Yemen’s Ethiopian coach Abraham the fi rst match against Yemen). Hope- 15 minutes Mebratu wore a dejected look after fully we will do the same in the next we showed the match on Saturday. “The fi rst SETBACK two matches,” Sanchez said after the that. We big challenge for us is not to con- resounding victory on Saturday. will try to do cede goals like this. We played The Spaniard added that his play- that again much better in the second half. ers are in top physical condition but but we know We still have two more matches Qatar’s Madibo out he will still wait until late today be- it will be dif- to go. We have to learn from fore fi nalising the squad for the clash fi cult. Every this match. We have to work against Iraq tomorrow. game is diff er- on our weaknesses. of tourney with injury “First we need to evaluate the play- ent. So many “We have to be ready. This ers. I have to see their physical con- things have to be match is a very good lesson. By a Correspondent rest means he will miss the remain- dition. We will play a diff erent team taken into account We have to bring the players Kuwait City der of the Gulf Cup. (against Iraq). We need to be in pos- before every game,” up and get them ready for Madibo was injured in Qatar’s fi rst session more and we know the next he said. the remainder of the tourna- game against Yemen on Saturday game will be diff erent because the Key Qatar defender Abdulkar- ment,” he explained. atar suff ered an unex- during the second half. quality will be diff erent too,” he said. eem Hassan said the young play- “The Qatari players were pected setback yesterday Ahmed Fathi replaced Madibo in “Our target is to be match-com- ers in the squad are getting “good better than us. They deserved to with the news that Assim the second half as Qatar beat Yemen petitive and we did that (in the fi rst experience”. win. The important thing from QMadibo will miss the re- 4-0. match). That’s the goal for our players, “It is a good experience for all this match is we have to play ag- maining part of the Gulf Cup due to Madibo’s absence is a huge loss for especially the youngsters,” Sanchez of us but for our young players, gressively for the first 20 minutes. a back injury. the Qatari team, which is defending said. After this (tournament), we will the Gulf Cup will be very useful In the coming match, we have to The 21-year-old midfi elder was its title at Gulf Cup. go to China for the Asian Under-23 for them,” Hassan said. “Despite see we don’t make mistakes. We taken to a local hospital for scans, the A replacement has not been an- Championship and it’s good for the having a young side, we prom- have to assess our performances Qatar Football Association said. nounced but Qatar can call in a new players who are getting good match ise to make the maximum ef- really well,” the Yemeni coach The player needs rest to stage a player according to tournament practice.” fort. These young players will go said. complete recovery. The prescribed rules. Gulf Times 2 Monday, December 25, 2017 CRICKET

PREVIEW SPOTLIGHT Ashes gone, now Selection challenge pride at stake for for S Africa AFP start in what should be another Port Elizabeth lop-sided contest. Assuming captain Faf du Ples- sis is passed fi t after recovering election is likely to be from shoulder surgery, it will be South Africa’s biggest diffi cult to fi t Bavuma into the challenge ahead of their batting line-up, while Phehluk- wounded England Sone-off day-night Test wayo’s medium-pace is unlikely against Zimbabwe, starting at St to be required when there are George’s Park tomorrow. four world-class fast bowlers in England succumbed to heavy defeats in the first three Tests of the series Zimbabwe are unlikely to the squad. stretch the home side but South Zimbabwe had a disappoint- Africa, ranked second in Test ing warm-up when they were cricket, will want to establish beaten by a largely unheralded their best XI in this four-day Test Invitation team in Paarl, but ahead of a three-match series they were able to gain some ex- against India, starting in Cape perience with a pink ball under Town on January 5. floodlights. With the return of AB de Vil- It is the fi rst day-night Test to liers and Dale Steyn after long be played in South Africa. When absences from Test cricket, and the hosts held their fi rst practice with all South Africa’s front-line under lights on Friday they found fast bowlers fi t for the fi rst time the ball helped the seam bowl- in more than a year, coach Ottis ers more at night than during the Gibson described the selection day, which has been a pattern in issue as “a good nightmare”. fl oodlit Tests elsewhere. “India are the number one The fl oodlights at St George’s team in the world at the moment Park were upgraded during the and we know we need to be at our off -season. Only two Twenty20 best if we are going to compete matches have been played at the with them and beat them, which ground since then, with the team is our ultimate goal,” said Gibson. batting second winning on both Six or seven batsmen? Three occasions. or four fast bowlers? A spin bowler? An all-rounder? These Squads: are all questions that will be South Africa: Faf du Ples- troubling Gibson and his fellow sis (capt), Dean Elgar, Aiden selectors. Markram, Hashim Amla, AB de The situation is complicated Villiers, Temba Bavuma, Quinton by South Africa’s unique ra- de Kock (wkt), Theunis de Bruyn, cial balancing act, with Cricket Andile Phehlukwayo, Vernon Phi- South Africa committed to hav- lander, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso ing an average of six players of Rabada, Dale Steyn, Morne Mor- Under pressure: colour, including two black Afri- kel, Duanne Olivier. Joe Root of England cans, in their starting teams. Zimbabwe: Graeme Cremer Three black Africans — bats- (capt), Hamilton Masakadza, man Temba Bavuma, all-rounder Solomon Mire, Craig Ervine, Andile Phehlukwayo and fast Brendan Taylor, Sikandar Raza, bowler Kagiso Rabada — played Chamu Chibhabha, Ryan Burl, Pe- in South Africa’s most recent ter Moor, Regis Chakabva (wkt), Test matches, two one-sided en- Kyle Jarvis, Chris Mpofu, Tendai AFP a rib injury, with either Tom Curran or In comparison, Australia skipper Steve of the series that we were going to bowl a counters against Bangladesh. Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani, Melbourne Mark Wood likely to replace him, while Smith is in cracking form and is coming lot of short stuff to those guys, much like But with batsman De Villiers Tendai Chisoro. young leg-spinner Mason Crane is push- off a Test-best 239 in the third Test. He is we did back in 2013,” Smith said in the and fast bowlers Steyn, Vernon Umpires: Richard Kettleborough ing for a Test debut. averaging 142 for the series. past week. Philander and Morne Morkel (ENG), Paul Reiff el (AUS). ngland have lost paceman Craig England and Wales Cricket Board chief Smith’s phenomenal form has him in Australia have won half of the 56 Tests back in the mix, only Rabada of TV umpire: Michael Gough (ENG). Overton and may make a further Tom Harrison typifi ed the feelings inside rarefi ed company, occupying joint second played at the vast MCG, although Eng- the three seems guaranteed to Match referee: Chris Broad (ENG). change as they try to restore some the team when he said earlier in the week: position in the ICC’s all-time rankings land won there in 1998 and 2010. pride in tomorrow’s fourth Mel- “I don’t think this is the moment for rash list along with England’s Len Hutton and Cricket Australia chief executive James bourneE Test after surrendering the Ashes decisions.” behind only the legendary Don Bradman. Sunderland said the Boxing Day crowd to Australia. Wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow has Smith has a career average of 62.32 was likely to surpass the 91,112 that made New rules for South Africa’s It’s been a tour from hell for Joe Root’s called on his teammates to rally behind from 59 Tests, second only to Bradman’s Ashes history in 2013-14 even though beleaguered team, succumbing to three their under-fi re skipper. pinnacle 99.94. England had already lost the series. 4-day Test with Zimbabwe heavy defeats which rendered the last two “We don’t just owe him (Root), we owe The Australian skipper is gunning for Teams (probable): Tests in Melbourne and Sydney “dead ourselves as well,” Bairstow said. “We’ve his fourth consecutive Melbourne Test Australia — David Warner, Cameron Port Elizabeth, South Play will start at 1.30pm (1130 rubbers.” got to go out there and try and win both of century after hundreds against Pakistan, Bancroft, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith Africa: The one-off day-night GMT) each day. The sunset in Root has been in the eye of the storm these Test matches.” the West Indies and India in the last three (capt), Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Marsh, Test between South Africa and Port Elizabeth will be between over the tourists’ underwhelming eff orts, Talking is one thing, doing is another Boxing Day showpieces. Tim Paine, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazle- Zimbabwe, starting tomorrow, 7.30pm and 7.31pm on the with former Australia captain Ricky Pon- for England, who have had their moments There will be some respite for England, wood, Nathan Lyon, Jackson Bird. will be staged under experi- four days of the match, half an ting deriding him as a “little boy” who in the series but have been blown away by with Australian pace spearhead Mitchell England — Alastair Cook, Mark Stone- mental playing conditions. hour into the last session. has been a “bit soft” during the one-sid- big losses — 10 wickets in Brisbane, 120 Starc ruled out on Sunday with a bruised man, James Vince, Joe Root (capt), Dawid The International Cricket It is the first Test match since ed series. runs in Adelaide and an innings and 41 heel and replaced by Jackson Bird. Malan, Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Chris Council gave permission to 1972/73 to be scheduled over Several other under-performing sen- runs in Perth. But Smith has vowed no let-up in Woakes, Tom Curran/Mark Wood, Stuart Cricket South Africa to stage a four days. Until then, Test ior players, notably Alastair Cook, Stuart Cook, who became the fi rst English- short-pitched bowling against England’s Broad, James Anderson. four-day Test. matches were played over Broad and Moeen Ali, have also been un- man to play 150 Tests during the series, tailenders, despite claims the umpires Umpires: Kumar Dharmasena (SRI) There are several variations varying numbers of days, der the gun as some critics call for their has scored just 83 runs in six innings, should give the lower order more protec- Sundaram Ravi (IND) from standard Test playing from three to six — and on a axing. while Root has two half-centuries but tion. TV umpire: Joel Wilson (WIS) conditions. number of occasions were Overton was ruled out on Sunday with only a total of 176 runs at 29.33. “We obviously had a plan from the start Match referee: Ranjan Madugalle (SRI) Play will be scheduled for “timeless”, played over an un- six-and-a-half hours each day, limited number of days until a half an hour more than in result was achieved. BOTTOMLINE five-day games, with 98 overs The last timeless Test, due to be bowled in a day, between South Africa and instead of 90. As in five-day England in Durban in 1938/39, games, an extra half hour can ended in a draw after ten days be added in order to complete (one of which was rained off) the overs. when the England team had The first two sessions of play to catch a ship home. Unadkat helps India sweep will be two hours 15 minutes Since 1972/73 Test matches each, instead of two hours, have been standardised as with a 20-minute tea break five-day games, although a instead of a lunch break after match between Australia and the first session. There will a World XI in 2005/06 was T20 series against Sri Lanka be a 40-minute dinner break scheduled over six days. It after the second session. lasted four days. AFP beaten 29 off 24 balls, gave some respect- Perera), 3-18 (Tharanga), 4-56 (Samara- There is no provision for time The South Africa-Zimbabwe Mumbai ability to the total after the visitors lost wickrama), 5-72 (Gunathilaka), 6-85 (T. lost to be carried over to match will be the eighth day- their top three batsmen for 18 runs. Perera), 7-111 (Gunaratne) subsequent days. night Test and the first to be “We learnt a lot because we all know Did not bat: D. Chameera, N. Pradeep The follow-on can be enforced played in South Africa. Four of aceman Jaydev Unadkat led a India is a big team at the moment,” Sri Bowling: Sundar 4-0-22-1, Unadkat with a lead of 150 runs, com- the previous seven day-night disciplined attack to set up In- Lanka skipper Thisara Perera said. 4-0-15-2 (w1), Siraj 4-0-45-1 (w2), Pandya pared to 200 runs in five-day games have been played in dia’s fi ve-wicket win in the third “As bowlers, we did pretty well today 4-0-25-2 (w3), Yadav 4-0-26-1 games. Australia. Twenty20 international against also. Have to click with our batting. After India (target 136) PSri Lanka as the hosts completed a 3-0 that, we can go far.” R. Sharma c K. Perera b Shanaka ...... 27 De Villiers ready for Zimbabwe, India whitewash yesterday. Meanwhile India’s left-arm quick Un- L. Rahul lbw b Chameera ...... 4 Unadkat returned impressive fi gures adkat, who removed the openers early, S. Iyer run out (Dananjaya) ...... 30 Port Elizabeth: South Africa’s going to be a really good series,” of 2-15 to help restrict the visitors to 135- was ably supported by fellow fast bowler M. Pandey b Chameera ...... 32 batting icon AB de Villiers says said De Villiers. 7. India then achieved their target with Hardik Pandya as they claimed two wick- H. Pandya c Dickwella b Shanaka ...... 4 his near two-year Test break India will be led by his Indian four balls to spare in a tense chase at the ets each. D. Karthik not out ...... 18 has enabled him to prepare Premier League teammate Virat Wankhede Stadium. The 27-year-old Unadkat received the M.S. Dhoni not out ...... 16 thoroughly for his comeback in Kohli. “I’d say Virat is one of the Manish Pandey top-scored with 32 but pressure with regular strikes as paceman man of the match award and the man of Extras (lb5, w3) ...... 8 a one-off day-night Test against best captains at the moment, it was Dinesh Karthik (18) and Mahendra Dushmantha Chameera and medium- the series prize as well for his four wickets Total (5 wickets, 19.2 overs) ...... 139 Zimbabwe, starting tomorrow. the most improved — there’s Singh Dhoni (16) who put on an unbeaten pace bowler Dasun Shanaka claimed two and disciplined bowling in the three T20 Fall of wickets: 1-17 (Rahul), 2-39 “I’ve had a great pre-season, a big change from when I first 31-run stand to take the team home. wickets each. games. (Sharma), 3-81 (Iyer), 4-99 (Pandya), 5-108 which I haven’t had for 13 years,” saw him captaining to now.” De The win ensured that India end the Shanaka got Sharma for 27, early in the (Pandey) he said in an interview with Villiers was the captain when he year on a high after outplaying the is- chase. The in-form Sharma hit 4 fours Sri Lanka Did not bat: W. Sundar, K. Yadav, J. Unad- South Africa’s Sunday Times last played Test cricket, against landers in the Test (1-0), one-day (2-1) and a six during his 20-ball stay but his N. Dickwella c Siraj b Unadkat ...... 1 kat, M. Siraj newspaper. The big challenge England in January 2016. Since and T20 series. wicket silenced the crowd. U. Tharanga c Pandya b Unadkat ...... 11 Bowling: Danajaya 4-0-27-0 (w1), Cha- for De Villiers and his team- then he’s battled injury, taken “I think it’s a team eff ort. The work Shreyas Iyer, who scored 30 before be- K. Perera c & b Sundar ...... 4 meera 4-0-22-2 (w2), Perera 3.2-0-22-0, mates, though, is what happens a break from the long form of ethic of each and every guy. They’ve done ing run out while backing up at the non- S. Samarawickrama c Karthik b Pandya .21 Pradeep 4-0-36-0, Shanaka 4-0-27-2 after the four-day clash against the game and handed over their homework thoroughly. It showed strikers end, and Pandey then put on a A. Gunaratne c Yadav b Pandya ...... 36 Toss: India Zimbabwe — a three-Test tour by the captaincy to former school they were ready for the opportunity,” In- gritty 42-run stand for the third wicket D. Gunathilaka c Pandya b Yadav ...... 3 Result: India won by 5 wickets number one team India, starting teammate Faf du Plessis. dia skipper Rohit Sharma said. but their departure spelt trouble. T. Perera c Sharma b Siraj ...... 11 Series: India won the three-match series in Cape Town on January 5. Since arriving in Port Elizabeth, “Lot of the guys were playing their fi rst But veterans Karthik and Dhoni stayed D. Shanaka not out ...... 29 3-0 “I’m very excited that they are he has batted against the type or second game but it didn’t feel like that. calm in the fi nal few overs when India A. Dananjaya not out ...... 11 Umpires: Anil Chaudhary (IND) and going to be touring in South of pink ball which will be used in It was our job as the team management to needed 20 off 18 balls. Extras (lb2, w6) ...... 8 Nitin Menon (IND) Africa. I haven’t played against the Test match. He said batting back them completely,” he added. Earlier Asela Gunaratne, who top- Total (7 wickets, 20 overs) ...... 135 TV Umpire: CK Nandan (IND) India for a while now, so it’s under lights had been tricky. Sri Lanka however put the hosts under scored 36, and Shanaka, who hit an un- Fall of wickets: 1-8 (Dickwella), 2-14 (K. Match Referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL) Gulf Times Monday, December 25, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE Spurs' Kane has Messi tally in sights United's Mourinho aft er latest hat-trick Burnley, England: Tottenham me – not only with goals but his Hotspur striker Harry Kane contribution, with his attitude, could end 2017 as the top professional ethic, how he calendar year goalscorer in works across the pitch, he is a European football after hitting massive example for everyone. his seventh hat-trick of the I am so happy for him, he needs lashes at players aft er year in Saturday’s 3-0 win at one more to set the record over Burnley. His manager Mauricio Alan and I think that is a mas- Pochettino believes he can not sive individual achievement for only reach that goal but has the him,” he said. capacity to get even better in Asked whether Kane could the coming years. go on to beat Shearer’s career Kane’s triple means he has record of 260 Premier League draw at Leicester now scored 53 goals in all goals, Pochettino noted the competitive games for club and consistency the former New- country this year, leaving him castle United and Blackburn Maguire’s 94th-minute leveller was another hammer blow to their United title hopes just a goal behind Barcelona’s Rovers striker showed through- Argentine master Lionel Messi. out his career but said Kane AFP The England forward is level had the quality to produce Leicester, United Kingdom with Bayern Munich’s Polish something similar. forward Robert Lewandowski, “We hope for Tottenham and Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo for him and I wish that every ose Mourinho slammed his Man- and Paris St Germain’s Edinson season (year) he will score 50 chester United stars after they Cavani. or more,” he said. “I think he conceded a late equaliser in a 2-2 Unlike any of his rivals for can still improve, he is 24 and draw against 10-man Leicester the record, however, Kane still the player arrives at their best thatJ left them 13 points adrift of leaders has a game left to play this 27, 28, 29 and it depends how Manchester City. year — a home game against professional you are. Harry United were already trailing in City’s Southampton on December Kane, if he keeps that mentality, wake, but Harry Maguire’s 94th-minute 26. Kane’s goals at Turf Moor keeps working hard every day, leveller at the King Power Stadium on also took his Premier League can play until he wants to. But Saturday night was another hammer calendar year tally to 36, equal- for me, he can still improve in blow to their title hopes just hours after ling Alan Shearer’s record from his game.” their rivals had beaten Bournemouth. 1995. “He is amazing, a fantastic Burnley manager Sean Two goals from Juan Mata had seen player, he needs one more to Dyche acknowledged that his United battle back from 1-0 down but, be above Alan, we will see in team did not capture the form despite enjoying a man advantage fol- the next game. that has lifted them into the lowing the sending-off of the substitute But it is fantastic for him, “ Premier League’s top six this Daniel Amartey, they allowed Leicester said Pochettino. “It’s diff icult to season. “You lick your wounds. to snatch a point with the last kick of the find words to describe Harry They turned up and we didn’t game. Kane. Even during my time at quite. Overall, we have to be Mourinho’s side had missed several Spurs I’m surprised by him. The really happy where the club is superb chances to move 3-1 ahead and ef- hat-trick is nice for him but we at,” he said. fectively kill off Leicester and the United could have scored more than “The best side won on the boss was furious with his players’ fi n- three. I’m worried when you day. They’re a top-class side. ishing and the sloppy way they allowed don’t create chances though,” They did the basics. They Maguire to equalise. “It is as bad as a de- he said. showed us respect by showing feat,” said Mourinho. Pochettino said Kane’s tally they would have to earn the “Sometimes you take a point and you was just reward for the eff ort he win. Harry Kane is a fantastic say ‘OK’ and you accept it as it was hard has put into his game. “During player. He must be up there to get a positive result. That is not the my three and a half years with with the best strikers in the case. It is a game to win easily. It is a big Tottenham, he always surprises world.” frustration as they are easy goals to score and easy goals to kill the game but not just the goals we missed, also some easy way out to counter-attack where we lost the ball quite easily. “On top of that, in the last couple of minutes, we allow the opposition to throw a few balls into the box, with Christian Fuchs’ hands and crosses. We couldn’t defend the last cross so I think we were punished by our mistakes in both penalty areas. There was a lack of maturi- Leicester City’s Harry Maguire (left) celebrates scoring the late equaliser as Manchester United’s Chris Smalling (right) and Phil ty. I cannot stop the game and give a team Jones react during the English Premier League match in Leicester, central England on Saturday night. (AFP) talk,” said Mourinho. “For the last two minutes the players whether all of his players will develop the low cards in the space of fi ve minutes. started well. It was a fantastic fi rst goal had to immediately adapt, to read the maturity he needs. “Some players they Foxes manager Claude Puel said: “He after regaining the possession,” said Puel. game, which they didn’t so we had child- have childish decisions and time helps took the second yellow card with naivety. “In the second half we started well ish decisions in front of goal and bad deci- them to have maturity and to decide Perhaps the fi rst yellow card was a little also, with quality. We made some fantas- sions as it was not just about the goals we better but some other players stay with harsh, but the second he needed to man- tic opportunities to score, just after this, missed, or dribbling or hitting the post. It childish decisions until the end of their age better. we conceded the free-kick. And just after was not just about missing chances with career,” he said. “You know it depends on “He’s a young player, he came into it was a little harsh with the sending off an open goal, it was also about decisions. what is inside and the way they learn or the game when there was a little pres- of Amartey. Harry Kane has scored 53 goals in all competitive games for club Easy decisions to make in easy transitions they don’t learn.” sure, there was intensity, rhythm, it was “It was a diffi cult scenario. We saw and country this year, leaving him just a goal behind Barcelona’s to counter-attack.” Leicester fought back despite having a diffi cult to come into the game. It was a fantastic spirit, character of my players. Argentine master Lionel Messi. (Reuters) Mourinho admitted he does not know substitute Amartey sent off for two yel- good game for us against a great team. We They believed until the end.”

SPOTLIGHT ROUND-UP Man City boss Guardiola says Austin charged with violent conduct outhampton striker Charlie Austin has been hit with a violent Aguero will decide own future conduct charge after he kickedS Huddersfi eld goalkeeper AFP Jonas Lossl in the face. Lossl was Manchester, United Kingdom left with a bloodied face and a suspected broken nose follow- ing the incident in Saturday’s ep Guardiola said Sergio Aguero 1-1 draw at St Mary’s. Austin had earned the right to determine avoided punishment for the in- his own Manchester City future af- cident at the time, but could now ter the Argentinian striker scored a face a retrospective ban from the Pbrace in a 4-0 demolition of Bournemouth. Football Association. The build-up to Saturday’s contest was In-form Austin netted South- dogged by talk of Aguero’s supposed dis- ampton’s opener in the fi rst half content at the Etihad Stadium as Guardiola against Huddersfi eld, but came continues to rotate his starting XI. off with a hamstring injury after Aguero, City’s all-time leading scorer, is the interval. Southampton boss reported to have held talks with club own- Mauricio Pellegrino confi rmed er, but he showed no signs of unhappiness Austin is likely to be sidelined for against Bournemouth as he scored twice the remainder of the Christmas and set up a goal for Raheem Sterling. fi xtures. “I respect Sergio a lot, about all he has done and what he will do in the future,” said CARVALHAL LEAVES SHEF- out of the game for three years. of their 23 league games under City manager Guardiola after the Premier FIELD WEDNESDAY But he proved an astute selec- Monk, are ninth in the second- League leaders’ 17th successive league win. Sheffi eld Wednesday manager tion as in his fi rst season at the tier table, three points behind “He is a legend. He will decide absolutely Carlos Carvalhal left the Cham- helm he took the Owls to within Aston Villa, who occupy the fi nal everything about his life and his future. I’m pionship strugglers by mutual 90 minutes of a fi rst Premier play-off place. Monk managed delighted to have him here with Gabriel (Je- consent yesterday. Carvalhal League return in 16 years, before Swansea in the Premier League sus) and all the squad. Aguero is a special guided Wednesday to the play- they suff ered a play-off fi nal between 2014 and 2015 before player, a legend, and I am so happy when he off s in his fi rst two seasons at defeat to Hull. He delivered helping Leeds to a seventh- plays good and he is scoring goals. I know Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola (left) talks to forward Sergio Aguero during the Hillsborough, but a miserable a second successive play-off placed fi nish in the Champion- the players who normally don’t play are up- Premier League match against Bournemouth on Saturday. (Reuters) seven-match winless run has campaign last season, but that ship last term. set, but all the team deserve to play.” cost him his job. one ended in a semi-fi nal defeat He was unable to agree an Aguero’s fi rst goal, a clinically taken div- and Bayern Munich coach. very diffi cult to play against and we came The Portuguese coach’s exit to Huddersfi eld. Wednesday are extension to his stay at Leeds ing header after 27 minutes following a fi ne “Before there was a mistake, now he’s en- with a game plan to stay in the game then came just hours after Wednes- currently languishing in 15th under new owner Andrea Fernandinho cross, was his 100th City goal joying scoring goals. In the past it was a bit maybe have a go,” said beaten manager Ed- day chairman Dejphon Chansiri place, 11 points off the play-off s. Radrizzani, leaving last May at the Etihad. Sterling doubled City’s lead in scary for him. He’s loved in the locker room, die Howe. released a statement of support before swiftly taking up the the 53rd minute, thrashing a low eff ort home he’s a young player and important for the “For long periods we were good. The after fans chanted for Carval- MIDDLESBROUGH AXE reigns at Boro. Middlesbrough to end a challenging week that saw him ra- national team. He must maintain that level.” (fi rst) goal came from our mistake, which hal’s dismissal in the wake of MONK AFTER VICTORY had hoped to bid for automatic cially abused at the club’s training ground After Sterling’s goal, Bournemouth could was disappointing, but the rest of the half Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat to Middlesbrough sacked manager promotion under Monk, having last weekend by a man who was jailed for 16 no longer contain City and the home side was OK. The second goal was the killer. We Middlesbrough. Thai business- Garry Monk just hours after his been relegated from the Premier weeks on Wednesday. The England forward began to maraud forward. Aguero nodded had another go, but it was diffi cult.” man Chansiri changed his tune Championship side’s 2-1 win at League in May. appears to have shrugged off that incident home his second header of the match before Howe added: “We try to approach every less than 24 hours later. Sheffi eld Wednesday on Satur- But they are far adrift of and Guardiola believes he is getting better substitute Danilo ruthlessly fi nished from 12 game looking to win, but these are a diffi cult Lee Bullen will take charge as day. Monk only took charge at that target and have reacted by all the time. yards out with fi ve minutes remaining. team to play against. caretaker boss for the game at Middlesbrough in June, but the relieving Monk of his position “With and without the ball he’s so ag- Although they slipped into the relegation “If you get it wrong here they have the Nottingham Forest tomorrow as former Swansea and Leeds boss two days before Christmas. Mid- gressive and so intense. I like how clear it’s zone, Bournemouth showed enough intent players to expose it. We’ve had an incredibly Wednesday start their search for was unable to mastermind the dlesbrough’s fi rst match without becoming — he knows when to dribble and and commitment to suggest they can avoid diffi cult run, but we are through it and have a new boss. Carvalhal arrived at expected promotion challenge. Monk is at home to Bolton when to pass,” said the former Barcelona the drop. “City are an outstanding team, to focus on the games coming up.” Wednesday in 2015 after being Middlesbrough, who won 10 tomorrow. Gulf Times 4 Monday, December 25, 2017 FOOTBALL

LA LIGA Messi deals with Madrid again as Barca look impregnable Though the season is only at its halfway point, the title looks certain to return to the Nou Camp

By Sid Lowe The Guardian

eo Messi ended the Clásico in a state of undress again but it was Real Madrid who had been stripped bare. At the very end of the last Madrid-Barca, Messi Lstood to the left of the goal at the north end of the Santiago Bernabeu, shirt off and held up for all to see; at the very end of the latest Madrid- Barca, exactly eight months later and a little over eight meters away, he lay on the grass to the right of the goal at the north end of the Santiago Bernabéu, boot off and abandoned, unseen at fi rst. Then, as now, Barcelona had just scored the third, only now he had given it instead of getting it: another visit, another victory, and maybe this time a title too. If then there was hope, ultimately unfulfi lled, this time there is expectation. A gigantic banner had welcomed the players onto the pitch dreaming of a “White Christmas” but those celebrating it were mostly wearing red and blue. Messi was wearing red and blue and, it was now revealed, white. In the last minute, he ran at Marcelo. The challenge saw him lose his boot but not his balance and, dashing to the line, sports sock exposed, the Brazilian tumbling be- hind him, he pulled it back for Vidal, slipping to the fl oor as he went. As Vidal’s shot squirmed under Keylor Navas and over the line, he got up and ran to the scorer, leaping into his arms. Camera shutters clicked and when their pictures were developed handy circles superimposed over his sock showed eve- ryone what they’d missed. Ivan Rakitic arrived with the boot and as they broke Sergio Busquets drew near and, grinning, had a word in his ear. Merry Christmas, perhaps? The goal ended the game, and maybe the league. Barcelona had just beaten Madrid 3-0; for the fi rst time in their history they had taken three points at the Bern- abeu for a third season in a row, aggregate score 10-2. The most successful year in Real Madrid’s history – their fi fth title, the Club World Cup, was briefl y off ered to supporters before the Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi dribbles past Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane (left) and Nacho as Gareth Bale looks on during the La Liga match at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid on Saturday. (Reuters) game – closed with them all but handing back the league they won in May. – and, as Marca’s front page put it, “virtually By then, Barcelona dominated entirely, hav- years and adding the European Cup, but staying Dani Carvajal’s superb one-handed save from “It hurts,” Zinedine Zidane said. “But,” he summer champions too.” ing slowly taken control as if by stealth, and he there, a new era all of their own. And now this: Paulinho. insisted, “Madrid never surrender, no matter Victory also took Barcelona nine points clear felt superior; back in August he had admitted the league almost relinquished before the win- Cristiano Ronaldo swung at his side’s best what. People can think the league is over but I of Atletico and eleven points ahead of Valencia, that for the fi rst time in nine years he felt “in- ter’s even out. chance and missed the ball entirely. Sergio Ra- don’t think so and the opposition coach doesn’t both of whom were beaten in the weekend. “It’s ferior” to Madrid. Since that night, Barcelona “You lot have become too used to a good mos had hit out at Luis Suárez, and while he think so either.” Ernesto Valverde didn’t – or he diffi cult,” Marcelo conceded. Sergio Ramos ad- have played 25 games, 17 in the league, and have thing; this is sport, you can lose,” Marcelo said, claimed that “in Catalonia they’ll say I should go didn’t say so, anyway – yet as Zidane suspect- mitted: “We have to be realistic, it’s very com- not lost, a resurrection quietly led by their new while Ramos insisted that the Clásico defeat to jail, like Carles Puigdemont”, who is not actu- ed, almost everyone else did and not without plicated.” manager, who has guided them from crisis to the could not wipe out 2017: “Anyone who thinks ally in jail but in Belgium, there were complaints reason. High in the north stand, a few hundred Even if Madrid win their game in hand – top of the table, unbeaten at Valencia, Atletico this is a failure should look at the stats,” he said. from the capital too. And there was criticism Barcelona fans waved and sang “Goodbye to the against Leganes in February – and every other and Madrid, virtual champions at Christmas. Yet defeat was a damaging one, places had of the way Madrid took at step back in the sec- league, goodbye.” game too, Barcelona would still have to lose four Things change fast. been changed. “Back then people said they were ond half, even if Valverde insisted “I don’t think A chant of “Campeones” followed. Elsewhere times for them to win the league. So far this sea- “It’s a lesson to us all,” Valverde said, nailing sunk, tomorrow it’s us that will be ‘sunk’,” Z i - that was a conscious decision”. By the end most in the stadium, they streamed for the exits, son, they have not lost one. it as he does so often. There was a warning there dane said. “There will be hostias,” he added. The agreed that Navas had been Madrid’s best play- making their way out into the sunshine in si- The last time Barcelona were beaten was the - “the advantage can be gone in a fl ash,” he said - hostia is the body of Christ, wafer-thin, the holy er. Barcelona won 3-0 and ultimately it could lence. What noise there was came in the form of last time they came here. It was the Spanish and a nod not just to his own team’s turnaround host, the consecrated bread, but it has multiple- have been much more. whistles. Soon Barcelona’s players were board- Super Cup and it was August. Neymar had just but Madrid’s too, urging caution and respect, a meaning here, many of them sweary. It’s also a Above all, the hostias were Zidane’s. “That’s ing planes at Barajas, heading home happy for gone, and mentally they looked gone too. Ger- hint of Mr Wolf in his words. If it has happened blow, a punch, a beating, a kicking and he was football; I accept that,” he said, “I don’t regret their holidays. Valverde insisted “we’re not even ard Piqué ended that game sitting on the bench once, twice, it can happen a third time. right: the kicking was coming. anything and I won’t ever change.” This time, at half-way yet”, but his team are already winter verbally muttering: “these guys are leading us a Madrid won it all: European and domestic When Karim Benzema departed he was whis- he had: his decision to leave out Isco, arguably champions – an honorary ‘title’ handed to the dance”; he ended this one heading up the pitch, champions for the fi rst time in 59 years, the talk tled, one radio commentator declaring playing their best player in 2017, and play Mateo Kovacic team top at halfway when 19 games have been looking for a goal of his own. That was him forc- was not just of having fi nally returned to the with him akin to playing with 10, and by then instead, was at the heart of the analyses and the played and everyone has faced everyone once ing the last corner. summit, winning a second league title in eight they really were playing with 10 of course after attacks.

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Juventus keep pressure on Napoli in Serie A Milan problem

AFP bigger than me, Milan Juventus’ Medhi Benatia (right) and Wojciech Szczesny celebrate says defi ant Gattuso hampions Juventus kept pace after their win over Roma on with Serie A leaders Napoli on Saturday night. (AFP) AFP Saturday night after a hard- Milan fought 1-0 win over title-rivals ASC Roma with Inter Milan suff ering a second consecutive defeat. ennaro Gattuso in- Moroccan Medhi Benatia scored the sisted he would not quit only goal against his former club after 18 after the former Euro- minutes in Turin as Juventus remain one pean heavyweights fell point behind leaders Napoli — who have Gto a another defeat, a 2-0 loss to 45 from 18 games — with Inter Milan fi ve Atalanta at the San Siro on Sat- points adrift in third after losing 1-0 at urday night. “If I thought that Sassuolo, and Roma in fourth. I was the problem, then I would It was the fi rst time that Roma have resign immediately. But that’s trailed this season away but Eusebio Di not it,” said Gattuso who took must become a team. We lack Francesco’s side could not fi nd a way over last month. “I’m the least of determination, hunger and grit. back, despite almost equalising in injury our problems.” I also think we should stop mak- time when Patrik Schick hit the crossbar. Chinese-owned Milan slipped ing comparisons with the past. I Juventus also had chances to increase to 11th position in the Italian see a team scared and worried,” their advantage with Gonzalo Higuain league — 21 points behind leaders added Gattuso. wasteful and Miralem Pjanic’s stoppage Napoli — and away from the Eu- Gattuso’s side next play In- time eff ort cleared by Alisson by the tips ropean aspirations of their new ter Milan in a potentially fi ery of his fi ngers. “Roma and Napoli are can- Asian owners. “Insults, I deserve Italian Cup quarter-fi nal tie on didates for the Scudetto. Inter are still more than the players. I am the Wednesday, with their city ri- up there and so are Lazio,” said Juventus captain of the ship, I make the vals also reeling after a second coach Massimiliano Allegri. choices, without pressure,” Gat- consecutive defeat. “We don’t Di Francesco, whose Roma side sit tuso said. He added: “I will never have time to let our heads drop seven points behind Napoli and six off Ju- resign, I am at the disposition of or create excuses, there’s Inter in ventus, said: “The team could have done a the club.” the Italian Cup and we must face lot better, maybe we were a bit inhibited, Milan’s training retreat after it with the greatest dignity,” said against a team like Juventus you can’t af- hind twice,” said the 30-year-old Slovak after 27 minutes. enth position. Milan’s training retreat af- last week’s shock defeat by Ve- Milan sporting director Massi- ford to make mistakes.” international. “Today winning was very Lorenzo Insigne marked his comeback ter last week’s shock defeat by Verona had rona had little eff ect on Gattuso’s miliano Mirabelli. Earlier Marek Hamsik scored his 116th important because we also gained points from injury with a volley on 33 minutes little eff ect on Gennaro Gattuso’s side. stumbling side. “Once we went “’Rino’ is a great man, a great goal to overtake Diego Maradona as Na- on Inter even if the championship is long.” following a Dries Mertens fl icked cross. Former Milan midfi elder Bryan Cris- behind, it turned into an up- coach. We knew that we were poli’s all-time record scorer, at the same Napoli were trailing twice in the fi rst But it was captain Hamsik who sealed tante opened after a Gianluigi Don- hill struggle,” said former Milan facing a lot of problems and he time sealing a come-from-behind 3-2 half with Gaston Ramirez fi ring in a free- the victory six minutes before the break, narumma error in the fi rst half with Josip player Gattuso. lives Milan to the full, caring so win over Sampdoria. “I’m proud to have kick after just two minutes to catch Pepe again off a Mertens cross, and Napoli held Ilicic fi nishing off the second on 71 min- Bryan Cristante opened the much about this side. During overtaken a myth like Maradona. My Reina off guard. But Allan equalised after on despite Mario Rui’s sending off . utes. Sparks should fl y on Wednesday scoring after 32 minutes for Ata- these diffi cult times, it’s impor- friends gave me shin-pads with 116 on a quarter of an hour at the San Paolo sta- Things have gone from bad to worse for with AC Milan and Inter Milan meeting in lanta with Josip Ilicic scoring the tant to be men, stick together and them, but my fi rst thought was that we dium only for Fabio Quagliarella to con- Chinese-owned Milan who lost to direct an Italian Cup quarter-fi nal derby clash second on 71 minutes. “What work to get the ship back into the were winning the game after going be- vert a penalty to restore Sampdoria’s lead European rivals Atalanta, who are in sev- in the San Siro. we are doing is not enough, we harbour safely.” Gulf Times Monday, December 25, 2017 5 SPORT

NBA SPOTLIGHT Kerr says it would be Nuggets snap ‘irresponsible’ to play Curry on Christmas

AFP we can’t let that aff ect our judgement. Los Angeles “He can’t play. That would be com- pletely irresponsible if he did,” Kerr said. Warriors’ streak The Warriors and Cavs have faced olden State coach Steve Kerr off in the past three NBA Finals, with ‘What a great eff ort. What a great performance. What a great win for us won’t let the hype surround- the Warriors triumphing in 2015 and ing the Warriors’ Christmas 2017. The Cavs won in a seventh-game AFP Day clash with the Cleve- thriller in 2016. Gland Cavaliers infl uence a decision on The showdown between the elite Los Angeles whether injured guard Stephen Curry foes highlights the NBA’s fi ve-game is ready to return. Christmas Day slate, which also fea- he Denver Nuggets stunned “The guy hasn’t even had a three- tures Eastern Conference leaders Bos- the Golden State Warriors 96- on-three game, right?” Kerr told re- ton hosting the Washington Wizards 81 on Saturday, holding the porters on Saturday as the reigning and Russell Westbrook and the Okla- NBA champions to a season- NBA champion Warriors prepared to homa City Thunder hosting James Tlow in points and snapping their 11- face the Denver Nuggets. Harden and the Houston Rockets. game winning streak. “So if we weren’t playing Cleveland The Warriors have coped admirably The Warriors high-octane off ense on Christmas and I told you Steph since two-time NBA Most Valuable — which they’ve maintained despite a hasn’t played in a three-on-three Player Curry sprained his right ankle spate of injuries that include two-time game, hasn’t had any contact at all and on December 4. NBA Most Valuable Player Stephen the game is 48 hours from now, you’d But their 11-game winning streak Curry’s sprained ankle — sputtered all say, ‘oh, Steph’s not going to play.’ was snapped on Saturday when a dis- night. “But because of the magnitude of the mal off ensive eff ort saw them fall 96- “It was frustrating for sure,” said game, everybody wants to know. But 81 to the Denver Nuggets. Kevin Durant, who led the Warri- ors with 18 points, but connected on just six of 17 shots from the fi eld and couldn’t get any of his fi ve three-point attempts to drop. He wasn’t the only one suff ering. Klay Thompson was six-of-21 from the fi eld, and one-of-10 from three- point range in producing 15 points. Overall, the Warriors made 32 of their 83 shots from the fl oor, and just three of 27 from three-point range as they pro- duced their season-low in points. They missed from beyond the arc, they missed layups — Andre Iguodala was stunned to miss a dunk. All those misses took a toll, Durant said. “It’s a feel-good game,” he said. “You want to make shots, that’s what gets us going, that’s what gets the crowd going. So you can feel the ener- gy — after every miss Denver was just taking it away from us as far as energy was concerned.” The Nuggets took full advantage, Magic big man Vucevic suff ers broken with Gary Harris scoring 19 points to lead a balanced attack that saw fi ve hand against Wizards Denver players score in double fi gures. Nikola Jokic added 18 points, Wil- Orlando Magic center Nikola Vucevic Vucevic is one of the team’s lead- son Chandler and Trey Lyles scored 15 suff ered a broken bone in his left ing scorers — 17.8 points per game apiece and Jamal Murray chipped in 14 hand on Saturday against the entering Saturday — and its top as Denver followed up Friday’s win at Washington Wizards and will require rebounder with 9.6 per game and his Portland with another impressive road surgery, the Magic announced. absence comes at a tough time for victory. The injury occurred in the first quar- the Magic (11-23) who have now lost “What a great eff ort. What a great ter when Washington forward Otto eight straight. Orlando was also with- performance. What a great win for us,” Porter swiped at the ball and instead out injured players Evan Fournier Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. Denver Nuggets guard Gary Harris (left) shoots the basketball against Golden State Warriors forward David West during struck Vucevic’s hand. (ankle), Aaron Gordon (calf strain), Warriors coach Steve Kerr insisted the second quarter of the NBA game in Oakland, California, on Saturday. (USA TODAY Sports) The Magic reported that similar in- Terrence Ross (knee) and Jonathan his team would put the disappointing juries require players to be sidelined Isaac (ankle) during their 130-103 outing behind them before hosting the from a loss to the New York Knicks apolis, scoring 38 points and handing 29 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for six to eight weeks. defeat to the Wizards. Cleveland Cavaliers in a Christmas Day on Thursday. out six assists as the Indiana Pacers and Pau Gasol contributed a triple- showcase — a rematch of the last three In Salt Lake City, reigning NBA defeated the Brooklyn Nets 123-119 in double of 14 points, 11 rebounds and NBA Finals. “You fl ush this down the MVP Russell Westbrook posted his overtime. 10 assists as the Spurs beat the Kings Steelers cut sacks leader Harrison toilet and move on,” Kerr said. 11th triple-double of the season to lead The Nets led by as many as 19 in the for the 11th straight time. the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 100- fi rst half, but the Pacers out-scored The Pittsburgh Steelers released this season and had one sack. CELTICS TRAMPLE BULLS 89 victory over the Utah Jazz. them 40-23 in the third quarter. In- RESULTS James Harrison, the franchise’s Harrison’s agent, Bill Parise, said The Eastern Conference leading Westbrook scored 27 points with 10 diana were up by nine before the Nets Miami 94, New Orleans 109 all-time sack leader, on Saturday to Harrison, who signed a two-year Boston Celtics warmed up for their rebounds and 10 assists. Paul George battled back to force overtime. Atlanta 112, Dallas 107 make room for the return of right contract in March, wants to continue Christmas tilt against the Washington added 26 points and Carmelo Antho- “In the second half, things started Boston 117, Chicago 92 tackle Marcus Gilbert. Gilbert had to play. Wizards with a 117-92 romp past the ny scored 16 for the Thunder, who beat going our way. We just picked it up Sacramento 99, San Antonio 108 been suspended for four games “There was no animosity or bad feel- Chicago Bulls. Utah for a third straight time. and played at a high level at both ends, Phoenix 106, Minnesota 115 for violating the league’s policy on ings,” Parise told ESPN. “It’s just the The Celtics out-scored the Bulls “We wanted to come out and set the and we were successful because of it,” Memphis 115, LA Clippers 112 performance-enhancing drugs. business of the NFL. I believe he still 38-18 in the third quarter to pull away, tone early,” Anthony said. “Defensive- Oladipo said. Charlotte 111, Milwaukee 106 Harrison, 39, had 80 1/2 sacks in wants to play. We’ll have to wait and avenging a humbling defeat in Chi- ly, we did that. Once we set the tone In Sacramento, the absence of for- Indiana 123, Brooklyn 119 (OT) a Pittsburgh uniform, and he had see what happens with waivers.” cago two weeks ago in which Boston early, we had the momentum going ward Kawhi Leonard and guard Danny Washington 130, Orlando 103 at least five sacks in each of the Harrison was the 2008 NFL de- scored a season-low 85 points. throughout the whole game.” Green made no diff erence to the San LA Lakers 92, Portland 95 previous three regular seasons even fensive player of the year and was Boston guard Kyrie Irving scored Antonio Spurs, who extended their Utah 89, Oklahoma City 103 though his playing time was re- named to the Pro Bowl five times in 25 points and handed out seven as- OLADIPO SHINES dominance over the Kings with a 108- Golden State 81, Denver 96 duced. He played in just five games his 14-year career. sists as the Celtics bounced back Victor Oladipo was the star in Indian- 99 victory. LaMarcus Aldridge scored Toronto 102, Philadelphia 86

NHL Rangers rally comes too late, fall to Maple Leafs

By Steve Zipay shoulder on centre Auston Matthews’ of Lundqvist for Zack Hyman’s pass Newsday (TNS) tip in front, but William Nylander scored and it was 3-1 at 11:22. moments later for a 1-0 lead. “I tried to poke it away. He had too David Desharnais won a faceoff and much time,” said Lundqvist, who made he angry words, the tossed chased the puck into the Leafs end, and 34 saves and did everything possible to water bottles, the locker room helped force Ron Hainsey into clearing give the Blueshirts a chance to grab a exhortations during Thurs- the puck over the glass at 10:01. Just 20 point. “He’s the wrong guy to face one- day’s 4-3 overtime loss in New seconds later, Roman Polak was sent to on-one in front of the net. He had a really Jersey,T when the Blueshirts were totally the box when he boarded Mats Zucca- good game; it felt like he was all over us.” outplayed and left Henrik Lundqvist rello from behind. In the third, Vigneault cut down to out to dry, didn’t generate enough of But the power play, hesitating on three lines, but Andersen and the Leafs, a response against the Toronto Maple open looks, generated just two shots, who had lost four straight road games, Leafs until the third period on Saturday. as the Leafs clogged lanes and broke up held on. A desperate, frantic push proved too passes with their sticks. When Morgan “The last two games is kind of a re- late. Reilly high-sticked Grabner, the Blue- minder for us on how hard we have to In the fi nal game before a three-day shirts had another man-advantage op- work and how well we have to play,” said holiday break, the Rangers’ self-in- portunity without converting. Lundqvist. “I look forward to Christ- fl icted wounds - penalties, missed op- Ryan McDonagh sailed the puck over mas, all my family’s here. We wanted portunities on the power play and de- the glass with 1:04 left. And that proved to end on a high note, but we’ll take the fensive lapses - disappointed a festive costly, as Hainsey’s one-timer from the break to recharge.” crowd wearing Christmas knit hats and right point on a power play just 50 sec- Santa beards as the Blueshirts dropped onds into the second provided a 2-0 RESULTS a 3-2 decision to the Leafs at Madison lead. “Our power play has to cash in St. Louis 3 Vancouver 1 Square Garden. when we get the chances,” said Brady San Jose 2 Los Angeles 0 Before the game, coach Alain Skjei. “They scored one on theirs. We Las Vegas 3 Washington 0 Vigneault said the group “understands just came up on the short end tonight.” Colorado 6 Arizona 2 that we need to be better” and declared The Rangers (19-13-4, 42 points) Dallas 4 Nashville 3 (SO) that he was “very confi dent that our narrowed the gap to one at 2:37. Jimmy Edmonton 4 Montreal 1 captain and his assistants sent the right Vesey was forechecking when An- Tampa Bay 3 Minnesota 0 message.” That message went mostly dersen mishandled the puck, and he Florida 1 Ottawa 0 undelivered for the fi rst two periods. Toronto Maple Leafs centre Auston Matthews (right) controls the puck in front of NY Rangers defenseman Ryan McDonagh curled around the cage to bank the puck New Jersey 4 Chicago 1 Trailing 3-1 in the third, Pavel Buch- during the third period of their NHL game at Madison Square Garden in New York City on Saturday. (USA TODAY Sports) off the netminder. Toronto 3 NY Rangers 2 nevich’s pass from behind the net found The killer goal came midway in the Anaheim 4 Pittsburgh 0 J.T. Miller, who fi nished by beating Fre- Grabner split two defenders and fooled and the goal was disallowed. In a penalty-fi lled fi rst period, the period. Nick Holden, McDonagh, Carolina 4 Buff alo 2 derik Andersen (30 saves) between the Andersen. But after Toronto coach “It was a good push in the third, we Rangers didn’t convert on 3:30 of a 5-on- Grabner, Hayes and Vesey all some- Columbus 2 Philadelphia 1 (SO) legs at 11:25 to cut the lead to one. Mike Babcock’s challenge led to a video had our chances,” said Rick Nash. “But 3 and a standard power-play, and fell how left Matthews, who had missed six Boston 3 Detroit 1 Forty-four seconds later, Michael review, Kevin Hayes was ruled off side the off side was obviously off side.” behind after Lundqvist somehow got a games with a concussion, alone in front NY Islanders 5 Winnipeg 2 Gulf Times 6 Monday, December 25, 2017 SPORT

NFL TENNIS Serena to return at Ravens hang on exhibition next week AFP tember. She has since fallen to 22 in the Abu Dhabi WTA rankings. The American, who has never played the 20-year-old Ostapenko, will face ormer world number one Ser- the Latvian in the tournament’s fi rst ena Williams will make her ever women’s match. much-anticipated competitive “I am delighted to be returning to the to beat the Colts return with an exhibition match court in Abu Dhabi for the fi rst time onF the fi nal day of the Mubadala exhi- since the birth of my daughter,” she Vikings’ defence dominates short-handed Packers in 16-0 win bition event on December 30, tourna- said in a statement on the tournament’s ment organisers announced yesterday. website. The 36-year-old, who has won an Williams can equal Margaret Court’s Open-era record 23 Grand Slam sin- all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles gles titles, will take on reigning French at Melbourne Park next month. Open champion Jelena Ostapenko. The exhibition tournament, which Williams won the Australian Open starts December 28, had earlier lost a 11 months ago but has not played since couple of star attractions, including because of pregnancy and the birth of multiple Grand Slam champions Rafael her fi rst child, Alexis Olympia, in Sep- Nadal and Stan Wawrinka.

SPOTLIGHT Continuing custody battle to deny Azarenka her 2018 WTA start

DPA jor event was the 2016 French Open. Auckland Legal restraints mean that neither Azarenka nor her former boyfriend can leave California; meanwhile, Azarenka’s ictoria Azarenka will be miss- hopes of being able to sort out the prob- ing what she had hoped would lems prior to 2018 have again collapsed. be the start of her 2018 season “There is obviously a fair bit go- at the WTA event in Auckland ing on, that’s been well documented Vafter withdrawing due to a Californian and unfortunately, the result of that is custody battle over her 1-year-old son. that Victoria won’t be here next week,” The LA-based double Australian Auckland tournament director Karl Open champion from Belarus has in- Budge told New Zealand media. formed New Zealand organisers that “She’s been training hard and is a she will not be able to play. professional tennis player who wants A US judge’s order means that to be playing tennis. It’s hard on us, 28-year-old Azarenka has not been because we were excited about hav- able to leave California for fear of los- ing someone of her calibre playing. We ing her child to her ex-boyfriend, with spoke to her and it was was made very whom she has been locked in a custody clear that she’ll be coming back in 2019 battle for six months. and to try to get something sorted now.” Baltimore Ravens’ Joe Flacco (right) is sacked by Indianapolis Colts’ Barkevious Mingo (centre) during their NFL game on Saturday. (USA TODAY Sports) Former number one Azarenka, now Offi cials say they are on the hunt standing 210, last played in July at for a late top-line entry to bolster the The Sports Xchange against the Colts’ 30th-ranked de- not have a turnover and was sacked kings’ defence dominated the short- Wimbledon, her second on-court ap- fi eld for the event which begins on New New York fense, but struggled to fi nd the end once. handed Packers. pearance of 2017; her last previous ma- Year’s Day. zone. Justin Tucker’s third fi eld goal of Indianapolis receiver TY Hilton The Packers, with quarterback Aar- the game increased their lead to 16-7 created matchup problems for much on Rodgers on injured reserve, receiver oe Flacco threw a pair of touch- to open the second half. of the game and fi nished with six re- Davante Adams inactive and receiver down passes and the Baltimore Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri kept ceptions for 100 yards. Jordy Nelson lost for the second half, Pyeongchang Olympics tickets sales Ravens held off the Indianapo- his team in the game with 48- and The Ravens’ opening drive stalled simply lacked the horses to challenge lis Colts for a 23-16 victory and 38-yard fi eld goals and Indianapolis at the Colts’ 12 after 14 plays, and the Vikings. pass 60 percent mark tookJ over the sixth playoff spot in the trailed just 16-13 with 1:34 left in the they settled for a 30-yard fi eld goal by Minnesota won for the 10th time AFC on Saturday night. third quarter. Tucker. in 11 games by knocking off the rival Olympic ticket sales for the upcom- Sales also picked up once the torch Colts linebacker Anthony Walker Two penalties — a hold and pass Tony Jeff erson blocked an attempt- Packers 16-0 in a game played in sub- ing Pyeongchang Winter Games have relay started on November 1, generat- blocked a punt with 2:36 left in the interference — proved to be costly for ed 38-yard fi eld goal by Vinatieri on 10 degree temperatures. surpassed 60 percent, with alpine ing growing excitement in the first game, giving his team the ball on the the Colts (3-12) on the Ravens’ next the ensuing drive. For the fourth time in their last six and cross-country skiing as well as snow and ice Games in mainland Ravens’ 27-yard line. However, on drive. Flacco made them pay with a That led to a 6-yard touchdown games, the Vikings (12-3) allowed short track speed skating leading the Asia. fourth-and-10, Baltimore cornerback 4-yard touchdown pass to tight end pass from Flacco to Michael Cam- fewer than 10 points. It was their fi rst way, local organisers said yesterday. Alpine skiing leads the way with 81 Maurice Canady knocked down a pass Maxx Williams — his fi rst score of the panaro and Baltimore led 10-0 with shutout victory since 1993. The organising committee POCOG percent of its tickets sold, followed by from Indianapolis quarterback Jacoby season. That put Baltimore ahead 23- 12:16 left in the half. Harrison Smith’s second inter- said that 61 percent, or 655,000 cross-country (79 percent), and short Brissett to seal the win. 13. The Colts responded when Frank ception of the night preserved the tickets, have been sold, with 47 days track (74) in which the host nation The Ravens (9-6) overtook Buff alo Vinatieri’s 30-yard fi eld goal pulled Gore took a short pass from Brissett achievement. left until the February 9 opening is expected to pick up most medals. (8-6) in the postseason race, and Bal- the Colts to within 23-16 with 4:33 left and ran it in for a 14-yard score. Green Bay (7-8) was blanked for the ceremony. Biathlon, by contrast, has seen only timore currently has a better record in the game. That gave Indianapolis Another 39-yard kick by Tucker second time this season, also losing at Ticket sales were sluggish at first, 41 percent of the tickets sold. against common opponents, which just enough life to put itself in position with two minutes left made it 13-7, home to Baltimore 23-0 on Nov 19. with the 50 per cent mark not Meanwhile 67 percent of the tickets would be a tiebreaker. The Bills play at to win the game. Vinatieri missed a 60-yard attempt reached until late November but for the February 9 opening ceremony New England on Sunday. Brissett did a solid job managing the in the fi nal seconds and the Ravens led RESULTS off icials have said that Koreans are have been sold, but only 35 per cent for Flacco was 29 of 38 for 237 yards. game. He completed 16 of 33 for 215 13-7 at the break. Baltimore 23 Indianapolis 16 notoriously late ticket-buyers. the closing ceremony on February 25. Baltimore was able to move the ball yards with a touchdown. Brissett did In Green Bay, the Minnesota Vi- Minnesota 16 Green Bay 0

BASEBALL Flood-ravaged Houston in love with World Series kings

AFP pitcher Lance McCullers Jnr said. “It kind of Washington became something that we rallied around. We still have pictures hanging in our lockers. “It’s still something we think about because wo months after Hurricane Harvey people here are hard-working people and they devastated Southeast Texas with record went through something that a lot of people rainfall and widespread fl ooding, the can’t understand. A lot of people lost every- Houston Astros captured an emotional thing. So for us to be able to just play baseball TWorld Series crown to help uplift the spirit of for a couple of hours and for those people to be storm-ravaged residents. able to have a little bit of joy, to get away from The Astros defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers what they are having to go through — it’s pretty 4-3 in Major League Baseball’s best-of-seven special to be able to give that to them.” championship fi nal, a roller-coaster series in which the Astros won 5-1 in game seven, rip- ‘WE WERE ABLE TO ACCOMPLISH THE ping Japanese standout Yu Darvish for a second DREAM’ time to claim the crown. The team’s fi rst major league crown came in its “When there’s so much devastation and in 56th season since being founded in 1962 as the particular in Houston... it makes it feel like your Colt.45s and produced a celebration parade that home had been devastated and that’s what we brought 500,000 people to downtown Houston. had talked about playing for after everything,” “We took pride in being there for Houston. Astros pitcher Dallas Keuchel said. They responded by falling in love with this The storm struck in August when the Astros team,” Astros coach A.J. Hinch said. were on the road, forcing one series to be shifted Astros star Jose Altuve dedicated the win to Florida while Houston residents struggled, to the Houston fans, saying, “We did this for many of them seeing their homes destroyed. them. I know there has been a lot going on his “At that point when we couldn’t come back Houston but they are the biggest reason why home to help out in any way possible,” Keuchel we are here.” said. “That’s when we said, ‘Hey, we’re going to “We got hit hard,” Astros owner Jim Crane fi nish this season for all of Houston and every- said of his city. “Everyone was behind us and body who has been aff ected.’” the team really picked up on it. We’re just so Astros players went into the playoff s with happy for everybody.” jersey patches bearing the slogan “Houston “We were able to accomplish the dream,” Strong” to underscore their solidarity with the said Houston shortstop Carlos Correa, whose city. thoughts were also with hurricane victims in “That patch on our chest truly does mean his native Puerto Rico. “To be able to bring joy a lot to us,” said World Series Most Valuable and happiness to their lives is special in this Player George Springer said. “I’m so happy for moment.” our fans who have endured a lot.” The city’s anguish was never far from the In this November 3, 2017, picture, George players, photos and keepsakes in player lockers Springer of Houston Astros holds up the Trophy a reminder of those who lost everything to the as Houston mayor Sylvester Turner looks on ragings fl oods. during the Victory Parade after they beat Los “We just wanted to show the city how much Angeles Dodgers 5-1 in Game 7 to win the 2017 we love them and care about them,” Astros World Series. (AFP) Gulf Times Monday, December 25, 2017 7 SPORT

A LOOK BACK From Russian doping to FIFA bribery, 2017 proves dark time And then there was Sharapova’s return from suspension and cyclist Froome’s adverse results for salbutamol

AFP Paris

ussia being banned from the Winter Olympics stole the headlines but may also have overshadowed an other- wiseR sorry year for sport in terms of scandals. It was a particularly damaging year for sporting offi cials, not least from the world of football and FIFA in particu- lar. Former Guam football federation president Richard Lai pleaded guilty in April to taking bribes worth almost $1 mn while Costa Rican Eduardo Li, Guatemala’s Brayan Jimenez, Venezue- la’s Rafael Esquivel and Julio Rocha of Nicaragua all received lifetime bans, with Nigeria’s Amos Adamu handed a two-year ban. Hector Trujillo of Guatemala, the former general secretary of his coun- try’s football federation, was the fi rst person brought down in the wide- spread FIFA corruption scandal to be sentenced to jail, given eight months by a judge in New York in October. Two more, Jose Maria Marin, former head of Brazil’s Football Confederation and Juan Angel Napout, former head of Paraguayan football, were convicted of corruption earlier this month for accepting more than $17mn in bribes between them. The likes of Michel Platini, the former UEFA president, and Jerome In this August 21, 2017, picture, Sky’s Chris Froome signs autographs prior to the start of the third stage of the 72nd edition of Valcke, the former FIFA general secre- Vuelta a Espana in Prades, France. Froome has returned an adverse analytical finding for asthma medication salbutamol. tary, both failed in their appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport to have said she should have been banned for their FIFA bans overturned while other life while former world number one prominent fi gures were embroiled in Caroline Wozniacki criticised US Open the ever-widening scandal. organisers for putting the Russian on a FIFA decided to bar Russian vice- show court. president Vitaly Mutko from its ruling In this February 14, 2014, picture, Russia’s silver medallists Albert Demchenko and Back to corruption and Carlos Nuz- council in March over his involvement Tatyana Ivanova pose during the Luge Team Relay medal ceremony at the Sochi man resigned as Brazilian Olympic in the Russian state-sponsored doping Winter Olympics. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Friday sanctioned Committee president in October after scandal exposed by the World Anti- 11 new Russian athletes, including two silver luge medallists, on the basis of the he was charged over a $2mn vote buy- Doping Agency-sponsored McLaren Oswald Commission’s findings on athletes involved in the state doping scandal in ing scandal. report. Russia. Demchenko and Ivanova were disqualified. (AFP) Former world athletics chief Lamine Diack and his son Papa Massata were URINE SAMPLES SWAPPED Russian athletes can compete as Froome wasn’t suspended but may also investigated as authorities in In June, Canadian lawyer Richard neutrals in South Korea, provided they yet be if he cannot prove his innocence France and Brazil followed the money McLaren told German television adhere to strict conditions and have — his urine sample contained twice the trail to try to prove Rio had bought channel ARD that doping by Russian never been convicted of doping. permitted amount of salbutamol. votes to win the right to host the 2016 footballers had been covered up by But the number of Russian athletes Coming on the back of the now fi led Olympics. swapping urine samples. banned for doping at the 2014 Sochi UK Anti-Doping Agency investigation Former world sprint champion and It was a bad year for Mutko who was Winter Olympics rose to 43 recently, into former Tour winner Bradley Wig- four-time Olympic silver medallist also banned from the Games for life by and the country has already lost 13 of gins’s reception of a mystery package Frankie Fredericks was caught up in the International Olympic Committee the 33 medals they originally won. at the 2011 Criterium du Dauphine the aff air and had to resign from posts at the same time that Russia were ex- race, this has been a damaging year for at both the IOC and IAAF after he cluded from the Pyeongchang Winter SKY CREDIBILITY DAMAGED the credibility of Team Sky — an outfi t received almost $300,000 from Papa Games next year. Cycling was unable to avoid the nega- that has long boasted of its “zero toler- Maria Sharapova’s return to the court following her doping suspension for using Massata Diack. Mutko, though, remains head of tive headlines as Tour de France and ance” policy to doping. meldonium brought controversy as many of her rivals expressed displeasure. The two Diacks had already been the Russia 2018 World Cup organising Vuelta a Espana winner Chris Froome It was the year of the comeback for banned for life by the IAAF in 2016 af- committee and a close ally of Russian returned an adverse analytical fi nding Maria Sharapova following her doping that brought controversy as many of Canadian Eugenie Bouchard ter accepting bribes to cover up doping President Vladimir Putin. for asthma medication salbutamol. suspension for using meldonium, but her rivals expressed displeasure. branded her “a cheater” in May and by Russian athletes.

YEARENDER / RUGBY Despite Lions draw, All Blacks maintain ‘gap’

AFP and Scotland wrapped up their Novem- Paris ber outings in style. “Every side wants to beat us. Wheth- er they’re playing here at Twickenham ew Zealand, led magnifi cently or away, this is their big game of the Six by playmaker Beauden Bar- Nations,” Jones said. rett, continue to lead the pack Scotland were undoubtedly the in their bid for an unprec- stand-out team of the autumn, Gre- Nedented third consecutive World Cup, gor Townsend’s side backing up their although they were held to a drawn se- close defeat by New Zealand with a ries by the British and Irish Lions. thrilling demolition of a 14-man Aus- In the highlight of the rugby calen- tralia, the last team to have beaten the dar for 2017, Steve Hansen’s All Blacks All Blacks. fought out an epic 1-1 draw with the “Our next three games (against Lions, coached by Wales’ Warren Gat- Wales, France and England) are really land. going to test us. Those three are excel- “It’s come down to the wire and lent teams but we’ve got to go into the we’ve ended up with one hand on the Six Nations with real confi dence that trophy each, which is a bit like kissing we can do well,” said Townsend. your sister,” Hansen said of the fi nal re- Ireland coach Joe Schmidt, whose sult. team won three from three in Novem- Talks of a downturn in rugby-ob- ber including a record 38-3 thumping sessed New Zealand accelerated after of a South Africa struggling with selec- the team were beaten 23-18 by Austral- tion made on strict race quotas, insisted ia in a pulsating Bledisloe Cup match in that he would not be experimenting at October. the Six Nations with fresh faces ahead A fresh hole pierced in the world of the 2019 World Cup. champions’ aura of invincibility? Not “The Six Nations is such a tough title really, they rebounded to go on a fi ve- to get,” said Schmidt. “In the Six Na- game winning tour of the Northern tions you are obliged to go as hard as Hemisphere in November. In this July 1, 2017, picture, British and Irish Lions’ Jonathan Davies (second from right) is tackled by New Zealand’s Jerome Kaino (left), Beauden Barrett (right) and Sonny you can because you still need your top “If we’d won that Lions series rather Bill Williams during their second rugby union Test in Wellington. (AFP) selection as they need to build their fl u- than drawn it probably people wouldn’t idity and confi dence.” be so down in the mouth,” Hansen said. didn’t let Hansen down, and the rest second straight year. “It’s been staggering to win (22 out of ‘ENGLAND 50/50 V ALL BLACKS’ While the autumn series was a mixed “It would appear this is a year we’re of the rugby world looked on in aston- The fl y-half notched up 41 points 23) from, for me, what was a shambles England, however, have not played New bag for Wales, it was an unmitigated fi nding out about ourselves.” ishment at the adept grooming of the against the Lions and said: “We learnt a in the 2015 World Cup,” commented Zealand under Jones, with the two na- catastrophe for both France and Italy. With fl y-half legend Dan Carter youngsters, best epitomised by free- lot from that series, particularly taking Clive Woodward, who led England to tions scheduled to meet at Twicken- France’s veteran coach Guy Noves heading off into a fi nal swansong in scoring winger Rieko Ioane, still just 20. that into the World Cup.” victory in the 2003 World Cup. ham next November. now enjoys the unenviable record of 14 Japan, Hansen has cleverly introduced Gatland, in his guise as Wales coach, But neither Hansen nor Gatland took “Eddie’s added new players and “England would go 50-50 into that defeats and a draw from his 22 matches a number of up-and-coming, little- said: “There’s still a gap, but I’d like to the coach’s award. That plaudit went it’s just the competitive nature of game with nothing to fear,” Woodward in charge, the side’s worst win-ratio in known players into the All Black set- think it’s closing a little bit.” to England boss Eddie Jones, who has the squad, he’s brought a real tough- said. almost 50 years. up and arrived for the November Tests Barrett emulated New Zealand great steered his team to 22 wins out of 23 ness into the team... Senior guys know England will fi rst have to negotiate Noves was expected to be replaced by with an enlarged squad of 43. Richie McCaw when he won World Tests since taking charge after their they’ve got a chance in a couple of what is promising to be a hotly contest- former Italy coach Jacques Brunel for Younger players were blooded. They Rugby’s player of the year award for the fi rst-round exit at the 2015 World Cup. years’ time.” ed Six Nations tournament as Ireland the 2018 Six Nations.

Monday, December 25, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

QATAR BASKETBALL LEAGUE FOCUS Duhail’s Almoez rated QNB Stars League’s Justice delivered best U-23 player l Duhail’s Almoez Ali utes (1,061) played. And he was has been adjudged the not substituted in any game. best Under-23 player Adel, who is presently repre- after the fi rst phase of senting Qatar at the Gulf Cup 2017-18A QNB Stars League, ac- in Kuwait, was next, spending as Al Gharafa win cording to football analysis and 917 minutes on the pitch over 10 statistics provider STATS com- games. pany. Special rating was given Almoez topped them all with Al Wakrah eased past Al Khor 80-60 With Adamu Saaka top-scoring with 23 for players in this category along 73.2 points. He had 785 minutes with general rating for Qatari on the fi eld, played 10 games, and foreign professionals, where scored four goals and gave as Al Duhail’s Youssef Msakni many assists. The Red Knights emerged on top ahead of Al Saili- player had scored a goal in Qa- ya’s Wagner Ribeiro and team- tar’s 4-0 victory over Yemen in mate Youssef El Arabi. their Gulf Cup opener on Satur- The ratings were done based day. on data, such as the number of Al Sadd’s Salem al-Hajri matches and minutes played came second in the rating with by players, goals scored, passes 69 points although he neither made and assists given. The list scored nor assisted during his included 18 players, aged be- 820 minutes of play across nine tween 18 and 22. The youngest matches. Al Gharafa’s Amro Seraj of them was Al Sadd’s Ahmed (68.4) fi nished third with two Suhail and most prominent goals and one assist off 715 min- were Umm Salal’s Adel Alawi, Al utes. Qatar SC’s Omar al-Emadi Markhiya’s Nasser Ibrahim and (67.8, seven games, 619 minutes Salah al-Yahri, Al Sailiya’s Ab- and a goal), Al Sadd’s Ahmed dullah al-Marri and Qatar SC’s Suhail (67.4, 381 minutes, four Omar al-Emadi. games) and Adel (65.6) followed Ten of the 12 QNB Stars League in that order. clubs had representation in the Ahmed Suhail is the youngest list, which did not feature Al player in the league, while Ya- Rayyan and Al Khor. zan, who occupied the seventh Al Sadd and Qatar SC have spot, got a rating of 65.3. Qatar three players each, while Al Du- SC’s Jassim Shanein (65) and hail, Al Gharafa, Al Markhiya and Abdulaziz Metwali (64.2), and Al Ahli all have two. Al Arabi, Al Nasser Ibrahim (64.1) were rated Sailiya, Al Kharaitiyat and Umm eighth, ninth and 10th respec- Salal have one. tively. Nasser scored a goal, while Only two players — Al Ahli’s Abdulaziz provided one assist. Al Yazan Naim (the only goalkeeper Duhail’s Bassam al-Rawi, who to feature) and Al Sailiya’s Ab- is also doing duty for Qatar at dullah al-Marri — played all 11 the ongoing Gulf Cup, came 11th matches. Yazan upstaged others with a score of 63.4 (nine match- in terms of the number of min- es, 598 minutes and one goal).

Al Gharafa’s Sammy Monroe (left) scores against Al Arabi during the Qatar basketball League yesterday. Right: Action from Al Wakrah-Al Khor match. PICTURE: Othmn Khalid

By Sports Reporter sion of the fi rst quarter. But they contin- For Al Arabi, Nicholas Stover’s match- and staring at the possibility of a huge de- Doha ued to raise their game steadily after that, high 30 points went in vain as he didn’t feat after Al Wakrah led 55-45. giving Al Arabi no chance of causing an get much support from his teammates, The fi nal quarter confi rmed that with upset. Al Gharafa led 46-38 after the sec- except William Byrd and Oumar Seck Al Wakrah scoring 25 points while re- ames Justice scored 23 points while ond quarter and 68-54 after the third. A who scored 16 and 11 respectively. stricting their rivals to just 15. For Al Sammy Monroe also excelled with fantastic fi nal period eff ort of 28 points In another match, Al Wakrah eased Khor, Khobi Williamson excelled with 20 22 as Al Gharafa thrashed Al Ara- ensured a 24-point win. past Al Khor 80-60 With Adamu Saaka points, while Ibnomer Hamed and Darryl bi 96-72 in the Qatar basketball Justice was successful with four of his top-scoring with 23 and Earnest Ross Blackmon each had 10 against their name. LeagueJ yesterday. This was Al Gharafa’s eight three-point eff orts as Al Gharafa led chipping in with 21. Marcus Johnson also Al Wakrah’s superior bench strength also eighth win in nine matches as they con- for nearly 32 minutes of the match. With excelled with 18. It was Al Khor, however, had a telling impact on the match with tinued to establish their credentials as 18 fast break points and 22 points from who enjoyed the advantage early in the the substitutes delivering a whopping 30 one of the top teams not just in Qatar but the bench they excelled in all depart- match as they sped to a 17-12 lead at the points, while Al Khor managed only fi ve also in the region. ments of the game. Abdulrahman Mo- end of the fi rst quarter. in this department. Although Al Gharafa eventually won hamed Saad with 19 and Mychal Ammons But they soon found the tables turned, Al Wakrah’s biggest scoring streak was the match emphatically, they had made with 14 also made valuable contributions and by the time the third quarter had 13 points, which came in the second quar- a slow start, leading 20-18 at the conclu- for Al Gharafa. ended they had conceded their advantage ter and took the game away from Al Khor.

SPOTLIGHT Khalifa stadium gets ready for Qatar Open

Doha: The Khalifa International Tennis and ‘Knowledge Transfer Day’ Squash Complex in Doha has started to wear a new look in preparation for the 2018 Qatar ExxonMobil Open. The prestigious tournament will be held from January 1 to allows HSSE professionals 6, 2018. Ahead of the tournament, neces- sary branding materials are already being put in place and the courts are getting the required facelifts in readiness for the to share lessons learned tournament. The Qatar Tennis, Squash and Bad- ealth and safety professionals from the generations in Qatar and across the Middle East. minton Federation (QTSBF), under the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Leg- “Events such as the Knowledge Transfer Day leadership of Nasser al-Khelaifi, is leaving acy (SC) – Qatar’s 2022 FIFA World Cup highlight our commitment to creating a safe space no stone unturned in ensuring yet another organising body – recently attended the for industry experts to share and learn in an open very successful week-long feast of tennis. Hcompany’s inaugural Knowledge Transfer Day. and supportive environment. It’s about sharing Former world No. 1 Novak Djokovicof Organised by the Health, Safety, Security & Envi- challenges, successes and failures in a way that will Serbia is leading a star cast which includes ronment Division, in collaboration with the Work- contribute to our performance.” rising star Dominic Thiem, Jo-Wilfried Carreno Busta, to the event. and they are available at City Center, Land- ers’ Welfare Department, the event provided an op- Hilal al-Kuwari, chairman of the SC’s Techni- Tsonga, Tomas Berdych, Richard Gasquet Tickets for the 2018 Qatar Open are mark, Lagoona, Villaggio and Mall of Qatar portunity for more than 100 executives, contractors cal Delivery Offi ce, said delivering the 2022 FIFA and Fernando Verdasco as well as Pablo currently on sale online and in the malls or online at www.qatartennis.org and stakeholders to share knowledge, opinions and World Cup safely and securely was Qatar’s number issues related to the organisation and legacy of the one priority. “Everyone involved in preparations for 2022 FIFA World Cup. the tournament takes the responsibility to deliver it The event, which included speeches, breakout safely and securely very seriously,” said al-Kuwari. FOOTBALL sessions, team building activities and presenta- “It is vital we learn from our challenges, suc- tions, reaffi rmed the SC’s commitment to sharing cesses and failures so we can become stronger, more information about health and safety issues, while effi cient and more resilient. We need to ensure we promoting the importance of knowledge transfer have a continuous fl ow of knowledge sharing across between internal stakeholders. Hassan al-Thawadi, all sites so we can continue to improve. There is a Asian Communities tourney draw held the SC’s secretary-general, said the event support- wealth of insight and expertise among us and now ed Qatar’s commitment to leaving a strong legacy is the time to make the most of these skills through he sixth Asian Communities Foot- across numerous fi elds. “When we bid to host the knowledge sharing.” ball Tournament (ACFT) draw cer- World Cup, we promised to leave a legacy of eco- The event, which was held at the Sheraton Grand emony took place on Saturday at Al nomic and human development in Qatar and across Doha Resort, will be used as a springboard to en- Bidda Tower, the Qatar Football As- the region,” said al-Thawadi. hance the SC’s culture of learning and knowledge Tsociation’s (QFA) headquarters. “That promise drives the work our organisation sharing. Excellent feedback was received from par- The ACFT tournament this year features does every day, enhancing the safety and well-be- ticipants, while Qatar Behavioural Insights Unit the participation of 12 Asian community ing of our workforce. But the true value of legacy will track the commitments made during the event, teams divided into two groups of six who lies in our ability to pass on what we have learned in in an eff ort to formulate the best ways for sharing will battle out on the fi eld to win the title. a manner that will increase the resilience of future knowledge going forward. (SC.qa) Organised by the QFA, the ACFT is a com- munity tournament which brings together various Asian communities residing in Qa- tar, and encourages them to play more foot- ball in a fun competitive environment. dan after they beat Lebanon 1-0 in the fi nal al format of 12 teams split into two groups Group A consists of Jordan, India, Phil- match that took place at Al Ahli Stadium, where they will play group stage matches, ippines, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Korea allowing them to be crowned champions for followed with the top four teams of each Republic, while Group B is made up of a second time, which made them the team group qualifying for the knockout stage. Singapore, Japan, Lebanon, Indonesia, Ban- with most titles won. Last year’s fi nal match The ACFT was launched in sports sea- galdesh and Nepal. The draw was conducted and closing ceremony was attended by Leb- son 2012-2013 and saw the participation of by Khalid al-Rumaihi, member of the Sub- anon’s Ambassador to Qatar Hassan Najm, six teams. In its’ fi rst edition, the tourna- Leagues Committee at QFA, QFA offi cials and Jordan’s Charge d’Aff aires and Minister ment saw huge success and as a result, the and was attended by the 12 participating Plenipotentiary Soufi an al-Qudah. following editions witnessed an increase in teams’ community leaders. The tournament Commenting on the occasion, Hilal al- the number of participating teams as more is set for kick-off on Thursday January 11, Mohannadi, chairman of the Sub-Leagues communities expressed huge interest in be- 2018 while the opening ceremony will take Committee said: “We are very excited to ing part of this exciting community tourna- place on Friday January 12, 2018 at 7:30pm. launch the sixth edition of this exciting ment. Matches will be played on Thursdays and tournament. The ACFT provides an oppor- The ACFT is sponsored by the Supreme Fridays at 8pm and 9:20pm. The tourna- tunity for community teams to display their Committee for Delivery & Legacy as the of- ment will run until Friday March 30 with the talents at an organised football tournament fi cial strategic partner, Nike as the offi cial fi nal match taking place at 7pm. offi ciated by the QFA referees.” supplier, and Al Kass Sports Channels as the Last year’s tournament was won by Jor- The tournament will follow the tradition- offi cial broadcaster.