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Sunday 11 December 2016 PAGE | 28 PAGE | 29 In-form Beckham faces Kohli puts deadline on Miamimi India in the lead MLS franchise

Saeed, Al Marri emerge winners of National Day Endurance Ride

Saeed Hamad Saeed Juma (left) astride LP Hara, winning the 100km CEIYJ* event of the National Day Endurance Ride, organised bythe Qatar Endurance Committee at Endurance Village, Sealine, Mesaieed yesterday. CENTRE: The winner of the 120km CEI** event, Hamad Towaim Al Marri receives the trophy from Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali. RIGHT: Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali presents the winner's trophy to Saeed Hamad Saeed Juma during the presentation ceremony.

Ma Long of China in action against South Korea's Jeoung Youngsik during the ITTF World Tour Grand Finals at LCSC offers exclusive Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena in Doha yesterday. Ma Long won 11-9, 11-8, 11-8, 14-12. Pictures by: Abdul Basit / The Peninsula facilities for ladies

The Peninsula the females interested in hav- ing a comfortable atmosphere osail International Cir- for them to come and exer- cuit will open its doors cise. To continue this and to Ltwice a month for ladies focus on physical activity, we only, enabling them to exer- will be launching this new cise in an outdoor facility with event, Ladies Training Days, privacy. as part of this continuous This was revealed during effort to make our commu- a press conference, attended nity live a healthier life,” Al by Abdulrahman Al Dosari, Dosari said. President of Qatar Sports For Dr. Abdulaziz Al Kuwari All Federation (QSFA), Saud said that Qatar Cyclists is very Al Attiyah President of Losail proud to announce this Circuit Sports Club (LCSC), Dr launch in collaboration with Abdulaziz Al Kuwari of Qatar Qatar Sports for All Federa- Cyclists and Mrs. Haya Al tion and Losail International Ghanim of Qatar Cyclists and Circuit under the slogan Oola Sports. “Activity is wellness”. QSFA and Qatar Cyclists “I would like to send a Centre with the Losail Circuit special thank you to the Qatar Ma Long sets date with Sports Club, continue to focus Sports for All Federation for on hosting physical activities their continuous efforts in that aim to maximize the full providing activities for the potential of the facilities and Qatar community. I would the goal is to provide the com- also like to thank all those in munity with a safe and Qatar providing activities to Zhengdong in Doha final comfortable environment to the public, especially to Min- exercise in. ister of Culture and Sports H In addition to the Wednes- E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali for day training days, the track will his continuous support,” Al The Peninsula semi-finals yesterday. In the first with absolute ease, Ma Long look now also be open exclusively Kuwari said. semi-final yesterday, world in imperious form as he won 11-9, for ladies only on selected Speaking on the occasion, he top two players on number, Ma Long of China 11-8, 11-8, 14-12. Ma Long has lost Tuesdays of every month. Mrs. Haya Al Ghanim said; the planet - Ma Long crushed Jeoung Youngsik of only two games in this tourna- Today I had a good “I have been President of “The privacy that is provided and Fan Zhengdong - Korea in straight games to reach ment so far. the circuit for a year now and to us by the Losail Interna- will clash for the ITTF the final of the ITTF World Tour In the final today, Ma Long balance between in this year, we have been tional Circuit is very helpful World Tour Grand Grand Finals. will play compatriot and arch- attack and defence, able to use the facility the and we appreciate it greatly. TFinals title today after they posted Playing with authority that rival Fan Zhengdong who I felt confident. most we can, but still we can We will be providing the contrasting wins in the helped him reach the title clash crushed compatriot Xu Xin 5-11, I was prepared for a do more work in community cycles and gear, so people 11-5, 11-5, 6-11, 11-6, 11-9. engagement and use it to its wouldn’t have to find ways to It was a pleasing win for the tough match, I’m full potential. Today I am bring their personal cycles Fan Zhengdong of China 19-year-old player who won the surprised that I won happy to launch this new from home all the way here. in action against Xu Xin. Star Point award on Thursday. so easily: Han Ying event with Qatar Sports for All We will also have special Zhengdong won 5-11, Zhengdong, ranked two in the Federation and Qatar Cyclists. trainers to provide yoga les- 11-5, 11-5, 6-11, 11-6, 11-9. world, has lost only five games We are here to provide all we sons, mini bootcamp, walking, in Doha. can from the circuit to cyclists and other activities. After the Earlier China’s Zhu Yuling, in the community,” said LCSC success we had in April, I am the no.3 seed, yesterday beat President Saud Al Attiyah. optimistic that we will have a Kasumi Ishikawa, the no.2 seed, played much stronger than today. QSFA President Abdul- great turnout.” 16-14, 11-3, 11-8, 11-7 to seal her I was prepared for a tough match, rahman Al Dosari said that his The first Ladies training place in the women's singles final. I’m surprised that I won so eas- federation is very concerned days will be on Tuesday and the In the first semi-final at Ali ily,” Han Ying said. and focused on encouraging next days will be on December Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena, Ger- German coach Jie Schopp the community to be more 20 and 27. The track will be many's Han Ying, the no.11 seed, said Miu Hirano wasn't fresh physically active and live a open from 5.00pm to 8.30pm eased past Miu Hirano, the no. 10 enough for a better fight. healthier lifestyle. with the registration on the seed, in four games. "Miu Hirano and Mima Ito are ‘As a part of this focus, we same day and free of charge. Han Ying won one-sided both tired, they have been trav- launched a Women’s Com- There will be an abaya and bag clash 11-2, 11-4, 11-3, 11-5. elling such a lot, to South Africa munity Sport activities that check in station at the entrance “Today I had a good balance for the World Junior Champion- will take place in four differ- and no men will be allowed between attack and defence, I felt ships; neither of them were 100 ent schools on a weekly basis inside the track with the CCTV confident. Last time when we percent fit and it was difficult for where we open the recreation system monitored by female played in Kuwait, I won the first them to find motivation," Schopp centres of those schools to all staff only. three games but then Miu Hirano said yesterday. SPORT 11 DECEMBER 2016 SUNDAY 27

Russian Sport McLaren report shows vast Ministry denies state-run dope programme reach of Russian doping Moscow IANS

London International Paralympic Com- he Russian Sports Min- AFP mittee,Sports which 'hijacked' banned istry has denied the Canadian lawyer Texistence of a govern- here were growing says Russia hijacked ment-sponsored doping calls yesterday for international sport system in response to the Russia to be banned by using more than "institutionalised doping con- from the Winter 1,000 athletes in an spiracy" allegation from an Olympics and other investigation report released 'institutional Tmajor international events after by the World Anti-Doping conspiracy' to win the latest startling revelations of Agency (WADA). state-sponsored doping across medals at the Sochi Canadian sports law Russian sport. and London Olympics expert Richard McLaren on Richard McLaren described and other global Friday published the second on Friday how Russia "hijacked" events. part of an investigation report sport by involving more than on Russian doping, noting 1,000 athletes in an "institutional that an institutional conspir- conspiracy" to win by mass dop- The IOC responded acy existed across summer ing at the Sochi 2014 Winter and to McLaren's latest and winter sports athletes London 2012 Olympics and other damning report by who participated with Rus- global competitions. announcing it would sian government officials. The Canadian lawyer, who reanalyse all 254 According the report, over detailed in a previous report how urine samples taken 1,000 Russian athletes com- Russian security services were peting in summer, winter and from Russian French national anti-doping laboratory in Chatenay-Malabry, outside shows urine samples involved in the nefarious Paralympic sport, can be athletes at Sochi. scheme, said in a second report in the same bottles used to analyse Russian athletes urine at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics identified as being involved for the World Anti-Doping in this file photo of December 15, 2015. in or benefiting from manip- Agency (WADA) that at least 30 ulations to conceal positive sports were implicated and that completely from the Rio Paral- put their house in order." a fundamental attack on the different teams and what's going doping tests. The Russian salt and instant coffee were used ympics in September, called the Clemens Prokop, president integrity of the on," McLaren said after present- Sports Ministry said in a state- to manipulate Russian McLaren findings of the German athletics federa- and on sport in general". ing his report findings in ment on Friday that there is samples. "astonishing". tion (DLV), called for a total ban Several major international London. no state-run doping pro- Russia's sports ministry -- Liz Nicholl, chief executive on all Russian competitors. sporting events are on the cal- "I think there are 33 football- grammes existing in Russia, said to be central to the ruse to of UK Sport, which is tasked with "Russian sport should be endar in the coming months, ers listed in the report. Not all of and Russia is ready to coop- cheat its way to success over helping Britain to Olympic suc- excluded from all interna- including the IAAF (athletics) those are Russian by the way -- erate and collaborate with several years -- again denied cess, said that the International tional competitions, including World Championships in Lon- some are foreigners." international organisations to state backing for doping, saying Olympic Committee (IOC) should the Olympic Games, until its don in August next year. That led British MP Damian improve its anti-doping that it "will continue the fight exclude all Russian competitors credibility is restored," said The Winter Olympics take Collins to question whether Rus- programmes. against doping with zero from the Winter Games in Prokop. place in Pyeongchang in Febru- sia was fit to host the 2018 World The first part of the inves- tolerance". Pyeongchang, South Korea in "This is a fundamental attack ary 2018 and Russia is due to Cup. tigation report was published Russia's track and field team 2018. against the Olympic movement hold the football World Cup that "FIFA now have to look very in July, in which Russia was was already banned from inter- "Absolutely. Until there's evi- when the values of the move- summer. seriously at the way in which the accused of running a state- national competition for doping dence that Russian athletes are ment are dragged through the McLaren identified doping as World Cup is going to be staged," wide doping programme and and was barred from the Rio competing clean," The Daily Tel- mud by a country." being rife in Russian athletics Collins, of the Culture, Media and a number of athletes routinely Olympics in August, but there is egraph quoted her as saying. The IOC responded to and weightlifting, but his report Sport Select Committee, told the used drugs to enhance per- now growing pressure -- not to "All the evidence that we've McLaren's latest damning report found evidence of banned sub- BBC. formance at the 2014 Sochi mention anger -- for more got is that they're not likely to be by announcing it would reana- stances being used in football "How can Russia give confi- Winter Olympics. sanctions. doing so. So, yes, I think the IOC lyse all 254 urine samples taken too. dence to FIFA and to the world WADA said in a statement The United States, Britain should be taking a very strong from Russian athletes at Sochi. "We didn't really have a that there will be proper anti- that summaries of the report will and all swiftly con- stance and should be excluding The report, the IOC declared, chance to look at Russian soccer doping measures in place during be provided to the International demned Russia, while the Russia until such time as they've showed that there "was across the board, to look at the World Cup?" Olympic Committee. Westbrook's heroics Feng clinches record fourth can't save Thunder Dubai Ladies Masters Dubai AFP Los Angeles AFP efending champion Feng Shanshan won a record ussell Westbrook's sev- Dfourth Dubai Ladies Mas- enth straight triple-double ters title yesterday following a Rput him in rare company, brilliant eight-under par final but it couldn't lift the Oklahoma round 64. City Thunder past the Houston The 27-year-old from China Rockets on Friday. started the day five shots behind Westbrook scored 27 points, overnight leader Felicity John- handed out 10 assists and pulled son of England. But she claimed down 10 rebounds to become back-to-back titles finishing on the first player since Chicago a 10-under par total of 206 as Bulls icon Michael Jordan in the leaders fell by the wayside 1989 to notch seven consecu- on a windy day at the Majlis tive triple-doubles. course of Emirates Golf Club. But the Rockets spoiled the Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) attempts Feng, the highest ranked party in Oklahoma city, with player in the field at world No4, to steal the ball from Houston Rockets forward Montrezl James Harden scoring 21 points was chased home by England's with 12 assists and nine Harrell (5) during the second quarter of their NBA game at Charley Hull second at eight- rebounds in Houston's 102-99 Chesapeake Energy Arena on Friday. under par following a 65. triumph. India's Aditi Ashok signed off Guard Eric Gordon came off "Make it real tough for him. improved defense was the key a brilliant season tied for third the bench to score 17 points and We were fortunate. He's a really, to the Cavs' current three-game place with England's Florentyna Ryan Anderson chipped in 14. really, really good player. We winning streak, which followed Parker at six-under par 210 in Patrick Beverly grabbed 12 were fortunate to come up with a rare three-game slump. the tournament that was rebounds for the Rockets, who a stop." There was no late-game Friday's win was Cleveland's reduced to 54 holes following held a 52-46 advantage over the stand required in Cleveland, second straight by a margin of the death of caddie Maximilian Thunder on the boards. where the reigning champion 30 points. They held the Heat to Zechmann on the opening day Beverly embraced the chal- Cavaliers thumped the Miami 34.8 percent shooting from the Wednesday. lenge of slowing down Heat 114-84.LeBron James field -- a season low for a Cav- American Beth Allen won Westbrook, matching up with scored 27 points with eight aliers opponent. The victory the LET Order of Merit crown, the Thunder guard in the wan- rebounds and eight assists solidified Cleveland's hold on while Ashok was the Rookie of Feng Shanshan of China poses with her trophy after winning ing seconds when Oklahoma against his former team. That top spot in the Eastern Confer- the Year. Feng made the most the final round of the 2016 Omega Dubai Ladies Masters at City had reduced a 13-point saw him move into ninth place ence. They're followed by the of the early holes playing down- the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai yesterday. fourth quarter deficit to one. on the NBA's all-time scoring list Toronto Raptors, who roared wind, making four birdies in a Beverly harried Westbrook with 27,315 points -- two more back in the second half to beat row from the second onwards, it was going to be windy and I score." Hull, who won her first as he dribbled and unleashed a Elvin Hayes, who starred for the Celtics 101-94 in Boston. and then had another fantastic knew that playing in the wind LPGA Tour title three weeks ago three-point attempt that ended Houston and Washington in the Kyle Lowry scored 21 of his 34 stretch from the difficult par-4 is one of my strongest parts. So at the CME Group Tour Cham- up an air-ball. 1970s. Kevin Love defied back points in the second half and ninth onwards, as she added even though I was five behind, pionship, had a similar story to "We just tried to show bod- spasms to score 28 points with DeMar DeRozan poured in 16 of three more to her tally. I always thought that maybe I Feng. After two quiet days, the ies and force him into a crowd," 15 rebounds for the Heat. Kyrie his 24 after the break as the "I'm really happy that I actu- would still have a chance to win 21-year-old from Woburn Beverley said of Houston's plan Irving chipped in 23 points, but Raptors erased a 10-point third- ally brought out my 'A game' this week and I tried my best. caught fire and posted a bogey- for containing Westbrook. coach Tyronn Lue said that quarter deficit. today," said Feng. "I knew that Eight-under was a pretty good free 65. 28 SPORT SUNDAY 11 DECEMBER 2016 Pakistan crush Cricket In-form Kohli puts Australia XI by 210 runs Cairns, Australia AFP

pener Azhar Ali hit an unbeaten 82 and spinner Mohammad Nawaz took three wickets as Paki- Ostan thrashed a modest Cricket Australia XI by 210 runs in Cairns yesterday. India in the lead The tourists declared their second innings at 216 for six and then polished off the CA XI for 109 off 27.3 overs to win early on the final day of their three-day day-night Mumbai India surge ahead game ahead of next week's first Test against Australia in AFP Brisbane. Virat Kohli crosses Pakistan set the CA XI a target of 311 run but the inex- aptain Virat Kohli 1,000 Test runs for the perienced home side never got within range with left-arm smashed a sensational year and 4,000 for his spinner Nawaz snaring three for 31 and pacemen Moham- unbeaten 147 to propel career during his mad Amir and Rahat Ali each capturing two wickets. India into the lead on the 241-ball unbeaten Ali added 38 to his overnight score and struck three third day of the fourth knock of 147. of his seven fours and two sixes on the final day before CTest against England in Mumbai the Pakistan declaration to set up the result. yesterday. Nawaz was unbeaten alongside Ali on 36 off 47 balls, India take a 51-run lead The Indian skipper, who has with Sarfraz Ahmed the only man to be dismissed on Sat- with three wickets enjoyed a remarkable and record- urday, bowled for 39. breaking year, hit 17 fours as India remaining into day four SCORES: reached 451-7 in their first innings in the fourth Test PAKISTAN: 208 (Y. Khan 54, S. Ahmed 39; C. Valente at stumps. against England in 4-36, M.Steketee 3-47) and 216-5 declared (A. Ali 82 not "He played exceptionally well Mumbai. out, M. Nawaz 36 not out; R. Lees 2-28) today and you have to take your CA XI: 114 (J Winter 39; M. Amir 3-15, R. Ali 3-26, W. hat off sometimes and just accept Riaz 3-28) and 109 (A. Nair 42; M. Nawaz 3-31) by 210 it," England's Joe Root said of Kohli Kohli'si's runs. afterwards. unbeaten cen-en- "The amount of runs Kohli has tury camee scored this series, if you take those after Indiann away it's a completely different opener Muralili Bangladesh keen to series," added the 25-year-old Vijay smashedhed Root, whose England side must win 10 fours and tthreehree carry home success if they are to keep the contest alive. sixes on his wayway to Batsman Kohli crossed 1,000 a magnificentnt 136 aafterfter startinstartingg tthehe Test runs for the year and 4,000 morning on 70.70. over to series abroad for his career during his 241-ball Vijay wass sent packing shortly knock to ensure India take a 51-run after lunch whenwhen spinner AdilAdil Dhaka lead with three wickets remaining Rashid caughtght and bowled the IANS into day four. right-handedd batsman.batsman. The 28-year-old entered the "It's very hard to bowl against angladesh limited-overs captain Mashrafe Bin Mor- fray early in the morning session guys when they'rehey're in that sort ofof taza wants to carry their home success over to series after Cheteshwar Pujara (47) was form. They deserved the scores Babroad as the team gears up to face New Zealand bowled out by Jake Ball on just the they got," saidid Root, who grabbed in a bilateral cricket tour. second ball of the day at the two wickets. "The most importantimportant Bangladesh are set to play a bilateral series abroad Wankhede Stadium. thing is we lookook forward to tomortomor-- after more than two years, reports bdnews24.com. Kohli, who has hit two double row and we ttakeake those three early The team management had set a target of 80 percent centuries in 2016, held fort at one wickets whenhen we getget the success rate going into the string of series following the end, crossing the century mark opportunity. 2015 World Cup. mid-way through the final "Then whenhen itit comescomes Bangladesh then embarked on an One-Day Interna- session. to batting wee look to put tional (ODI) series-winning run and sealed six straight It marked the Indian captain's pressure backck on them.them. series before losing to England this October. They also second century of the series after If we can doo that well earned a historic Test win over the English side. his stunning 167 in the second Test then we haveave a really The New Zealand series will begin later this month. at Visakhapatnam. good game on our hands," Bangladesh will then play a one-off Test against India added Root. KohliKohli excelledexcelled at thethe before taking on Sri Lanka in a complete series. SCOREBOARD crease with ssomeome exexquisitequisite shotshot-- Bangladesh will then travel to Ireland for a tri-nation making as thehe wickets of Parthiv series in May next year. The Champions Trophy is sched- England (I innings): ...... 400 India (I innings): Patel (15) andd Ravichandran Ash-Ash- uled for June in England before the team head for South L Rahul b Ali ...... 24 win (0) fell too Root. Africa in October. M Vijay c&b Rashid ...... 136 Rashid ggrabbedrabbed his second The packed schedule begins with a training camp in C Pujara b Ball ...... 47 wicket of thee ddayay wwhenhen RavinRavindradra Australia and Bangladesh will fly there in two contin- V Kohli (batting) ...... 147 Jadeja was dismissedsmissed for 25 but JayJay-- gents. One group has already left the country on Thursday K Nair lbw Ali ...... 13 ant Yadav stoodstood firm and was night and the other is set to fly out on Saturday with P Patel c Bairstow b Root ...... 15 batting on 3300 with Kohli when Mortaza. R Ashwin c Jennings b Root ...... 0 Indian skipper Virat Kohli R Jadeja c Buttler b Rashid ...... 25 stumps weree called.called. "Two years ago we targeted winning 80 percent J Yadav (batting) ...... 30 "Any leadad is ggoldold on this celebrates after scoring a century matches at home. Thankfully we have been successful at Extras (B-5, LB-7, W-2) ...... 14 wicket," Vijayy toldtold reporters. on the third day of the fourth that. Now the challenge is different, playing abroad," Mor- Total (for 7 wkts) ...... 451 "During tea-time we just Test against England at the taza said at a press briefing on Friday. Fall of wickets: 1-39, 2-146, 3-262, 4-279, 5-305, thought get ccloselose to their targettarget Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai The 33-year-old Mashrafe is looking forward to the 6-307, 7-364. but now thee way Virat anandd yesterday. conditioning camp in Sydney.

Bowling: Anderson 15-5-43-0; Woakes 8-2-34-0; Yadav are battingbatting I thinkthink After the camp, the team will travel to New Zealand

Ali 45-5-139-2 Rashid 44-5-152-2; Ball 14-5-29-1; Stokes 8-2-24-0; Root 8-2-18-2. we're in a pretty gogoodod on Dec 18 and play a warm-up match there on Decem- position." ber 22. The ODI series will begin on December 26. Andrew, Puts spring surprises at Short Course Worlds

Montreal to claim gold ahead of the SC WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS RESULTS AFP United States and in the Michael Andrew of the sprint relay that opened the MEN United States competes in S teenager Michael evening's action. 4X50M FREESTYLE RELAY the 100m Individual Medley Andrew and Jesse Puts Their triumph came on the 1. Russia (Aleksei Brianskii, , Aleksandr Popkov, Uof the same day as another damn- final on day four of the Vladimir Morozov) 1min 24.32sec, 2. United States 1:24.47, 3. were upset winners on Friday ing report on state-backed 13th FINA World Japan 1:24.51 at the Short Course World doping in Russia. Championships (25m) 100M INDIVIDUAL MEDLEY Swimming Championships in Canadian investigator at the WFCU Centre in 1. Michael Andrew (USA) 51.84, 2. Daiya Seto (JPN) 52.01, 3. Windsor, Canada. Richard McLaren released a Windsor, Ontario, Shinri Shioura (JPN) 52.17 The 17-year-old Andrew, new report in London saying Canada on Friday. 50M FREESTYLE whose age-group success has that more than 1,000 Russian 1. Jesse Puts (NED) 21.10, 2. Vladimir Morozov (RUS) 21.14, 3. Si- seen him tipped as a multi- athletes were involved in or monas Bilis (LTU) 21.23 medal threat in the mold of benefitted from efforts to con- 50M BACKSTROKE Olympic superstar Michael ceal positive tests. 1. Junya Koga (JPN) 22.85, 2. Jeremy Stravius (FRA) 22.99, 3. Phelps, won the 100m indi- Amid renewed calls for Pavel Sankovich (BLR) 23.03 vidual medley in 51.84sec. banning Russia from interna- 4x200m freestyle relay He edged Japan's Rio tional sports, the country's 1. Russia (Mikhail Dovgalyuk, Mikhail Vekovishchev, Artem Lobu- Olympic bronze medallist swimmers stuck to business zov, ) 6:52.10, 2. United States 6:53.34, 3. Daiya Seto, who took silver in in Windsor, bookending the Japan 6:53.54 52.01 with Japan's Shinri night with a victory in the Shioura earning bronze in men's 200m freestyle relay. WOMEN 52.17. Mikhail Dovgalyuk, 50M BUTTERFLY World record holder Mikhail Vekovishchev and Puts pulled off the upset Hosszu's gold medal binge can Alia Atkinson (58.04). 1. Jeanette Ottesen (DEN) 24.92, 2. Kelsi Worrell (USA) 25.27, 3. Vladimir Morozov settled for Artem Lobuzov had Russia in the men's 50m freestyle, continued with a triumph in Swimming's "Iron Lady," Rikako Ikee (JPN) 25.32 equal sixth, shortly after lying fourth when anchor Ale- pulling away in lane seven to the 100m individual medley winner of three gold medals 100M INDIVIDUAL MEDLEY anchoring Russia to victory in ksandr Krasnykh hit the win in 21.10sec and edge Rus- -- her fifth gold of the at the Rio Olympics, added 1. Katinka Hosszu (HUN) 57.24, 2. Emily Seebohm (AUS) 57.97, 3. the men's 4x50m freestyle water. He powered to the sia's Morozov by four championships. another crown to those she Alia Atkinson (JAM) 58.04 relay. front for a victory in 6:52.10, one-hundredths of a second. Hosszu clocked 57.24 to had already earned this week 400M FREESTYLE

Aleksei Brianskii, Nikita with the United States second Lithuania's Simonas Bilis take the gold ahead of Aus- in the 200m butterfly, 100m 1. Leah Smith (USA) 3:57.78, 2. Veronika Popova (RUS) 3:58.90, Lobintsev, Aleksandr Popkov in 6:53.34 and Japan third in settled for bronze in 21.23. tralian Emily Seebohm (57.97) and 200m backstroke and 3. Chihiro Igarashi (JPN) 3:59.41 and Morozov clocked 1:24.51 6:53.54. Hungarian Katinka with bronze going to Jamai- 400m individual medley. SUNDAY 11 DECEMBER 2016 SPORT 29

Mourinho thinks inferior teams United and Spurs in exciting are ahead of United in EPL

Manchester scramble to stay in touch Reuters anchester United London those games every three days. Manchester United manager manager Jose Mour- AFP Although its transport impli- Jose Mourinho M inho has labelled it cations have provided unfair that teams he believes he threat of a long, unwelcome complications for are inferior to his side are dark winter hangs Mourinho, the Europa League higher in the Premier League over Jose Mourinho's has given United some rare table. Manchester United as moments of positivity in recent "I find it unfair," the Por- they prepare to wel- weeks. tuguese told Sky Sports on Tcome Tottenham Hotspur to Old It has been particularly kind Friday. "I find that we should Trafford in the Premier League to Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who have many more points than today. temporarily disappeared from we have because when you Without a home win in four view following his close-season look at the table it looks like league games, United trail fifth- switch from Borussia other teams are better than place Tottenham by six points Dortmund. us which in my opinion is not and will be left with a chasm to The Armenian playmaker true. bridge just to secure a Champi- shone in the 4-0 win over Fey- "In so many draws we ons League place if they lose. enoord and opened his account deserved victories. If you Their preparations have for the club with a fine goal on could transform these draws been disturbed by Thursday's Thursday, having inspired United into victories we would be Europa League trip to Ukraine, to a 4-1 League Cup win over very close to the top. where they beat Zorya Luhansk West Ham United in between. "I am just a bit disap- 2-0 to secure a last 32 slot, but With United having scored pointed... because I see teams Paul Pogba says it cannot serve just seven goals in their last eight in the Premier League that as an excuse. league games -- a run that has are not comparable to us in "When you're playing those yielded a solitary win -- he terms of the quality of their competitions, you're playing seems increasingly integral to game and they have many every three days," the Mourinho's hopes of salvaging more points than us. midfielder told MUTV. the season. "That is not something "We have the team to change "We know how good he is," United fans and owners want, and be ready. We have to be Pogba said. "You just have to be that is not something I want Tottenham Hotspur manager ready for those games. When you confident and now he's playing for this project." prepare in pre-season, it's to play more, he has more games in his Mauricio Pochettino legs. United vs Spurs Having recently endured a The stunning form of Mour- "I always assess my col- Toby Alderweireld is in line to sequence of one victory in 10 inho's former club Chelsea under leagues and try to be objective. make his first start in eight Nacional to Without a home win in matches in all competitions, Tot- Antonio Conte has only deep- I really believe he is one of the weeks following a knee prob- four league games, tenham can sympathise with ened the gloom surrounding the best. lem, having come off the bench honour Brazilian United trail fifth-place United's struggles. Portuguese, but Spurs manager "Sometimes you struggle a against CSKA at Wembley on Tottenham by six Their sticky patch ended Mauricio Pochettino remains an bit. It's not easy to arrive at a new Wednesday. points. their Champions League cam- ardent admirer. club, set up ideas and philoso- United are also expected to Chapecoense at paign before it had really begun "For me, he is the Special phy, but for me he was, is and welcome back a key central Spurs travel to Old and saw them slip seven points One and will always be the Spe- will be one of the best managers defender after Eric Bailly made Club World Cup Trafford energised by below leaders Chelsea in the title cial One," said Pochettino, who in football history." his return from a knee injury in two handsome race. But they will travel north saw his side outclass United 3-0 Pochettino will once again Ukraine. Osaka victories, having energised by two handsome vic- at White Hart Lane when the be without winger Erik Lamela, Bailly's centre-back partner AP crushed Swansea City tories, having crushed Swansea teams last met in April. who remains in Argentina Chris Smalling and Luke Shaw 5-0 before sinking City 5-0 last weekend before "For me, he was a reference attending to his hospitalised remain out, but Michael Carrick olombia's Atletico CSKA Moscow 3-1 in sinking CSKA Moscow 3-1 in when I started my career at brother, while striker Vincent and Antonio Valencia could fea- Nacional arrived in mid-week. mid-week to join United in the Espanyol. He was always very Janssen has an ankle injury. ture after being rested for the trip CJapan for the Club Europa League. kind to me and opened his door. But defensive lynchpin to Odessa. World Cup yesterday still dealing with the trauma of the recent airplane crash that caused the cancellation of the Copa Sudamericana West Ham's Bilic praises Sturridge before Liverpool trip final. Atletico was to play Bra- zilian club Chapecoense in Daniel Sturridge Liverpool expected but it is not only down to being regular for club and coun- the final but the plane carry- Reuters them," Bilic told British media. try are the injuries." ing the Brazilian team to the "I never want to divide the Sturridge, who has lost his game crashed, killing almost est Ham United manager team into strikers and the rest. starting place to Brazilian Roberto all on board. Slaven Bilic has admit- Although it is the strikers' job to Firmino under manager Juergen Nacional qualified for the W ted his team need to score goals, it is also the responsi- Klopp, will sit out Sunday's match Club World Cup by winning the improve in front of goal and bility of the whole team." with a calf injury, and Bilic would Copa Liberdatores in July and praised Liverpool striker Daniel West Ham have been linked not confirm if he would bid for the vowed to honor the memory Sturridge who has been linked with with a move for Sturridge in the striker in January. of their rivals when they face a move to the Premier League January transfer window, and Bilic "He's just a player that has either South Africa's Mamelodi strugglers. said he admired the England inter- been linked with us, basically, and Sundowns or Japanese cham- West Ham, who travel to national's natural ability. we've been linked with almost pions Kashima Antlers on Anfield tomorrow, are 17th in the "He's one of the biggest talents, every player," he said. Wednesday. The directors of Premier League table, having he's a great player," the manager "All the clubs are thinking Atletico Nacional asked the scored 15 goals in 14 matches so said. about him because he is that kind governing body of South far. "The talent is there, the touch, of player. Unfortunately for Eng- American football to award "The strikers didn't score the finishing, everything is great. land and for Liverpool and Chapecoense the Copa Suda- enough goals or as many as we The only thing that's stopped him especially for him he's injured." mericana championship. Frustrated Beckham faces deadline on Miami MLS franchise

Toronto slotted in to become the league's Galaxy, has been frustrated in looking into joining the MLS, Reuters 24th franchise following Atlanta attempts to secure a home for his including Austin, Cincinnati, and Minnesota United, who are set team. Detroit, Nashville, Raleigh, Sacra- ajor League Soccer fired a to start playing next season fol- The former England captain mento, St. Louis, San Antonio, San warning shot across the lowed by a second team in Los and his partners in Miami Beck- Diego and Tampa. Mbow of David Beckham's Angeles scheduled to begin oper- ham United (MBU), agent Simon Interest in the league has sky- plans for a franchise in Miami on ations in 2018. Fuller, Bolivian billionaire Marcelo rocketed, Garber said. Friday, with the MLS chief saying "I have said before we need to Claure and Tim Leiweke, who mas- For the sixth time in seven sea- the clock was ticking down on time resolve the Miami situation so we terminded the midfielder's move sons the league smashed total and to get a deal done. can go forward with our expan- to the Galaxy in 2007, recently pur- average attendance records with "There is a deadline on the sion plans from 25 to 28 because chased a parcel of land in the almost 21,700 fans per game, Miami deal," MLS commissioner they are team 24," said Garber. Overton area of Miami. which Garber said put the MLS Don Garber said in his annual state "If they are not going to be MBU, however, is facing fur- sixth among global soccer leagues. of league address ahead of Satur- team 24 there are going to be a lot ther delays, according to a report Merchandise sales rose 25 per- day's MLS Cup final between of things that need to move around. in the Miami Herald, as the group cent over last season, while Toronto FC and Seattle Sounders. "We all know how teams searches for new investors to help franchise evaluations have jumped Garber, abiding by a confiden- evolve in certain markets and the fund the building of a stadium and 80 percent from 2013. tiality agreement between the challenges of getting stadiums the purchase of additional land. "We're continuing to evolve league and Beckham's group, built, we try to do everything we The MLS board is due to meet and develop and remain focused declined to say what exactly that can to ensure we have the right on Thursday in New York to dis- on building a league that can be deadline is but confirmed Miami recipe for success." cuss the process, timetable and fees among the top leagues in the will be on the agenda when the Beckham, who obtained the for bringing on board four new world," said Garber. "It seems there MLS board meets next week to dis- rights to buy into an MLS franchise franchises to take the total number is no city in America where you cuss expansion plans. at a discount as part of the deal he of teams to 28. can't have a viable professional David Beckham Beckham's Miami team is signed to play for the Los Angeles At least 10 markets are soccer team." 30 SPORT SUNDAY 11 DECEMBER 2016 Messi double brings Barca relief

Madrid Iniesta's return from a six-week half time as firstly Oriol Riera just AFP injury layoff continued in the couldn't stretch to tap home a first half at Osasuna, but Barca dangerous cross at the back post. ionel Messi struck twice as were in danger of paying for Sergio Leon then gave Barca Barcelona recorded their their profligacy in front of goal. a scare when his brilliant lob Lfirst win in four La Liga A brilliant pass from Messi over Marc-Andre ter Stegen games to close to within three freed Suarez inside the area just came back off the underside of points of Real Madrid at the top eight minutes in, but the Uru- the bar. of La Liga with a 3-0 win at guayan pulled his shot inches Barca created fewer chances Osasuna yesterday. wide of the far post. Suarez then in the second half, but were Barca should have killed the hit the woodwork as he spun more clinical. game off in the first half as Luis inside the area. Sergio Busquets and Messi Suarez and Messi missed two big Osasuna remain five points combined to release Jordi Alba chances each against La Liga's off safety and it was easy to see on the left and his low cross was bottom side. why they are still without a rolled into an unguarded net by However, Suarez rounded off home win all season as the hosts Suarez despite Osasuna calls for a fine team move to break the were opened up at will. offside. deadlock just before the hour Suarez turned provider for The second goal came about before Messi's double in the final Messi, but Nauzet Perez rushed in similar fashion 13 minutes 17 minutes moved him ahead of from his goal to block. later as Alba again got to the by- Cristiano Ronaldo as La Liga's top And the goalkeeper frus- line and his cross was volleyed scorer with 11 for the season. trated the five-time World home by Messi at the near post. Barca were in desperate Player of the Year again And Messi didn't need any need of a lift after conceding in moments later by just raising a help for his second in stoppage the last minute to Real in last hand in time to divert Messi's time as he wriggled clear of weekend's El Clasico. attempted chip behind. three Osasuna defenders and Osasuna's Oriol Riera (left) vies for ball possession with Barcelona's Lionel Messi during their La The Catalans' upturn in per- Osasuna briefly threatened to left Perez on the floor before lift- formance since captain Andres cause a huge upset either side of ing the ball high into the net. Liga match at the Reyno de Navarra (El Sadar) Stadium in Pamplona, Spain, yesterday.

Over-exposure Ozil guides Arsenal to the top will 'kill' players, says London Premier League fifth-place Tottenham Hotspur AFP today. Guardiola Charlie Adam's penalty Swansea City climbed off the esut Ozil's crafty put Stoke ahead at the foot of the table at Sunderland's header inspired Emirates Stadium, but expense with a 3-0 home win over London Arsenal to a 3-1 Theo Walcott, Mesut David Moyes's side in which Spain AFP comeback victory Ozil and Alex Iwobi international Fernando Llorente over Stoke City yes- fired back. scored twice. anchester City Mterday as Arsene Wenger's side Gylfi Sigurdsson broke the boss Pep Guardi- supplanted Chelsea at the Premier Okaka's double help deadlock with a 51st-minute pen- Mola warned that League summit. alty, awarded for handball against plans to increase the Watford leapfrog Charlie Adam's penalty put Jason Denayer. World Cup to 48 teams as Everton to seventh Stoke ahead at the Emirates Sta- Sigurdsson's corner set up well the global saturation dium, but Theo Walcott equalised place, level on points Llorente to add a second and the of football is going to "kill" before Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain with Manchester United. former Athletic Bilbao striker made players. teed up Ozil to float a header over who host Tottenham the game safe from Jefferson Guardiola said he Lee Grant in the 49th minute. Hotspur today. Montero's cross to propel Bob Bra- wants to see rules changed Alex Iwobi completed victory dley's men clear of the bottom to allow for up to six sub- to lift Arsenal top on goal differ- But Arsenal levelled in the three. stitutes to be used in a ence above Chelsea, who go in 42nd minute when Walcott neatly Wilfried Zaha starred as Crys- game rather than the three search of a ninth consecutive win converted Bellerin's cross at the tal Palace rescued a point in a at present as a means to against West Bromwich Albion near post for his 10th goal of the topsy-turvy 3-3 draw at fellow prevent burn-out of top today. season before Ozil put the home strugglers Hull City. stars. Third-place Liverpool enter- side in front. Robert Snodgrass's 27th- "It's just three substi- tain third-bottom West Ham Arsenal needed a two-goal win minute penalty put Hull ahead, but tutions now, why can you United today also. to claim top spot and the crucial Zaha won a spot-kick that Chris- not make four, five or Arsenal went into their meet- third goal duly arrived 15 minutes tian Benteke converted before six?," said the Spaniard. ing with Stoke on the back of from time when Nigerian winger dancing past Tom Huddlestone and "All the players are one-sided wins over West Ham Iwobi gathered Alexis Sanchez's Sam Clucas and slamming home involved more than and Basel, but the first half hour of pass before drilling home. to give Palace the lead. before, the coaches can the match suggested their luck Italian striker Stefano Okaka Adama Diomande equalised use different tactics. Less might be about to turn. scored his first Watford goals as and Jake Livermore gave Hull an injuries, more open games. First, Shkodran Mustafi was Walter Mazzarri's side came from 78th-minute advantage, only for Everything would be PREMIER LEAGUE forced off by injury, which saw behind to beat Everton 3-2, leav- Zaha to tee up Fraizer Campbell better." RESULTS Hector Bellerin make an earlier ing Ronald Koeman's men with one for a headed 89th-minute The City boss was Yesterday than expected return from an ankle win from their last 10 league equaliser. speaking after FIFA pres- Arsenal 3-1 Stoke problem as a substitute. games. Jeff Hendrick's brilliant 13th- ident Gianni Infantino Burnley 3-2 Bournemouth Arsenal's Mesut Ozil Then, in the 29th minute, Adam Romelu Lukaku netted twice minute volley set Burnley on the expressed his desire to Hull 3-3 Crystal Palace runs for the ball celebrated his 31st birthday by giv- for Everton, bookending the scor- path to a 3-2 home win over increase the number of Swansea 3-0 Sunderland Watford 3-2 Everton during their Premier ing Stoke the lead from the spot ing, but Okaka's double -- the first Bournemouth. teams playing at the World Today (GMT) League match against after Granit Xhaka had caught Joe a brilliant volleyed flick -- and a The Irishman netted from 25 Cup from 2026. Chelsea vs West Brom (12:00) Stoke City at the Allen with his elbow. Sebastian Prodl header earned the yards and further goals from But he fears that such Man United vs Tottenham (14:15) Emirates Stadium The decision drew a furious hosts victory. Stephen Ward and George Boyd demands will push play- Southampton vs Middlesbrough in London, England reaction from Arsenal manager Watford leapfrog Everton to secured victory despite Benik ers to breaking point. Liverpool vs West Ham (16:30) yesterday. Wenger, who appeared to push the seventh place, level on points with Afobe and Charlie Daniels netting "It's not just English fourth official. Manchester United, who host for the visitors. football, it's all around the world. Now they talk about a World Cup of 48 teams -- we are going to kill the players," he said. Lewandowski lifts Bayern back to top as lose "FIFA will decide and we accept the decision and if we are not happy Berlin difference, while Wolfsburg are we go home. They are Reuters just a point above the relegation focusing on more and zone in 15th place, without a win more and more -- it hampions Bayern Munich in their last four matches. affects the quality. I am reclaimed top spot in the Promoted Leipzig's sensa- thinking just for the play- C Bundesliga after crushing tional start to the season came ers. They need to breathe, VfL Wolfsburg 5-0 yesterday as to a halt when Brazilian Roger's to (have a) break, to RB Leipzig slumped to their first glancing first-half header earned enjoy. loss of the season -- a 1-0 defeat struggling Ingolstadt only their "This kind of thing is at Ingolstadt. second win of the campaign. impossible because we are Arjen Robben put the dom- The hosts had to endure an going to finish (the sea- inant hosts ahead with a hour of pressure as Leipzig son), then after one week trademark move down the right sought the goal that would have the World Cup then after and a superbly curled left-footed kept them top, and Emil Fors- three weeks we go to the shot in the 22nd before Robert berg missed a golden chance in pre-season, we go to Lewandowski tapped in for a the 88th minute to equalise from China, the States, two-goal lead four minutes later. four metres out. Australia. The Pole replicated his move Ingolstadt were reduced to "You play against on the hour to turn in a Thomas 10 men in stoppage time after the Milan, Juventus, Madrid Mueller shot before the attack- dismissal of Mathew Leckie. and you have to win, peo- ing midfielder then turned Borussia Dortmund contin- ple demand you have to scorer, finally breaking his goal ued their erratic domestic form play good. No prepara- drought this season. and needed another late goal tion then you come back Douglas Costa completed the from Marco Reus, who brought and it's 11 months again (From left) Bayern Munich's Javi Martinez, Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery, David Alaba and rout in the 86th minute his side back to 2-2 at Real and it's the European Bayern move up to 33 points, Madrid in midweek, to snatch a Robert Lewandowski celebrate their first goal against VfL Wolfsburg during their Bundesliga Cup." ahead of Leipzig on goal 1-1 draw at Cologne. match at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany yesterday. SUNDAY 11 DECEMBER 2016 SPORT 31

Qatar National Arabian Horse Show

Representatives of Theeb Al Shaqab, podium winner of Class 2 Colts Foals at the Qatar National Arabian Horse Show, receiving the trophy from officials. Wounded Al Rayyan aim to bounce back QSL Round XI QATAR STARS LEAGUE After the game like Today’s matches the other day, it’s El Jaish vs Muaither SC at important to have a Lekhwiya Stadium, 4.00pm reaction and knowing Al Ahli vs Al Shahaniya at my players they will Al Ahli Stadium, 4.00pm show this against Al Al Sailiya vs Al Gharafa at Wakrah. We need to Al Ahli Stadium, 6.10pm put the defeat against Al Wakrah vs Al Rayyan at Al Sadd behind us. Al Wakrah Stadium, 6.10pm

motivation when they play the The Peninsula best teams in the QSL. It’s a appropriate time to play Al ound eleven of the Rayyan.” Qatar Stars League Todays action will see top of (QSL) season will kick Al Rayyan coach Michael Laudrup addressing a press conference on the eve of the Qatar Stars League match against Al Wakrah the table El Jaish take on off today with four in Doah yesterday. RIGHT: Al Wakrah coach Kais Yâakoubi. Muaither. Sabri Lamouchi will games involving sides be looking to get back to winning Rtargeting all three points. ways after falling to their first All eyes will be on the final “Wakrah come into the game know that with strikers they will Al Wakrah head into their Yâakoubi also revealed he defeat of the season against game of the day which will see with plenty of confidence as they get one goal and then more will match off the back of their first will be without some key play- rivals Lekhwiya. the QSL champions Al Rayyan haven’t lost in four games. It is come and I hope in this moment win of the season against Al Khor ers heading into the game; “The As for Muaither they are now visit a Al Wakrah side who a good thing that the game comes they will do this,” he added. and coach Kais Yâakoubi atmosphere is good in the squad on a three game losing streak in picked up their first win of the very quickly we need to put the Laudrup stressed that his stressed on the quality of his after the win, but we only have the QSL, and have dropped into season against Al Khor. defeat against Al Sadd behind us. central midfielders will need opponents. 72 hours to prepare for this game the relegation zone. Lions supremo Michael We cannot think about the time to get back to full fitness. “We look to the table, we it is important .Maher Yusef and Head coach Phillipe Birol will Laudrup is expecting a big reac- league title at the moment we “Daniel Goumou has been play- know there is a big gap in qual- Ahmed Fadel will be absent for be hoping that leading goalscorer tion from his players who lost just have to focus on the game ing well at the moment, you ity between us and Al Rayyan. this game, despite the missing Alain Dioko will be fit in time for 5-0 to Al Sadd in the Qatar that is ahead of us” Added the cannot be away from playing Regardless of the negative results names we are aiming to get a this game. Clasico. Danish head coach. matches for so long and not drop in the next few weeks from positive result.” The second game of the day Laudrup expects his side to Al Rayyan’s stirikers have off physically. We are in a run of them.” The Tunisian revealed it’s an will see Al Ahli take on a Al Sha- bounce back. been misfiring in recent weeks, games now and naturally he is “Our target is to start pick- ideal moment to play the QSL haniya side who have been “After the game like the other however Laudrup belives they going to drop off i am expecting ing up points. We picked up our champions. quietly picking up points, boost- day, it’s important to have a will soon find their form. “I am that. Likewise for Caseres he will first win and we need to continue “It’s a good opportunity to ing their survival. reaction and knowing my play- happy that the performances need two months to get back to on this path if we are going to take advantage of the defeat Al Later in the day, Al Sailiya ers they will show this against Al with the strikers and I know they his best when he returns, that is avoid relegation this season,” Rayyan had against Al Sadd. We welcome an inform Al Gharafa Wakrah.” are upset at not scoring but i football.” added the Tunisian coach. don’t need to give the players side to Al Ahli Stadium.

Qatar Bowling Open : Kweon wins Qatar Grand Prix kicks off in Doha

The Peninsula

he 2016 Qatar Bowling Open - the 16th and last Tstop of the 2016 European Bowling Tour and also the 6th and last event of 2016 World Bowling Tour - kicked off in Doha here yesterday. The EBT “Platinum” tour- nament, the highest of four categories, will end on Decem- ber 16, at the Qatar Bowling Center, a 32-laner in Doha. The tournament offers total prize fund of $155,000 with $40,000 going to the winner, $20,000 to the runner-up and a last-to-cash payout of $1,200 Cameron Weier, last year's for 43rd place. winner of Qatar Open. Total 43 players will advance to the finals on December 16 including the top games scratch with the top 18 34 in the overall qualifying advancing to the second round. Youngjun Kweon of Korea, winner of the Qatar Grand Prix poses for a group picture with officials of Qatar Fencing standings, of the next two days Those 18 and the 10 qualifying and the top 3 of the Desperado leaders will roll another six- Federation at Aspire Zone yesterday. Kweon defeated Bardenet Alexandreof France 15-13 in the final. In the semi-final, Squad. The top 10 qualifiers will game block from scratch to cut Kweon defeated Nikolai Novosjolov of 15-13, while Bardenet got the better of compatriot Lucenay Jean-Michel receive a first-round bye. The to the top 4, who will advance 15-12. Today the final of the women's event will take place at the same venue. RIGHT: Kweon celebrates. other 33 finalists will bowl six to the semifinals.