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Monday, May 6 ,2019 FOOTBALL Ramadan 1, 1440 AH Shock draw ends GULF TIMES United’s Champs League hopes SPORT Page 2

MOTORCYCLING World champion Marquez goes top aft er win in Spain Marquez, who crashed while leading in the previous round in Texas, started third on the grid and now has 70 points

Reuters RESULTS AND STANDINGS Jerez, Spain

MotoGP Moto 2 orld champion Marc 1. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) 41min 1. Lorenzo Baldassari (ITA/Kalex) Marquez swept back 08.685sec, 2. Alex Rins (ESP/Suzuki) 25mins 33.841sec, 2. Jorge Navarro to the top of the Mo- at 1.654sec, 3. Maverick Vinales (ESP/ (ESP/Speed Up) at 0.359sec, 3. Au- toGP standings by a Yamaha) 2.443, 4. Andrea Dovizioso gusto Fernandez (ESP/Kalex) 1.091 Wsingle point yesterday after run- (ITA/Ducati) 2.804, 5. Danilo Petrucci World Championship standings ning away with his home Spanish (ITA/Ducati) 4.748, 6. Valentino Rossi 1. Lorenzo Baldassarri (ITA/Kalex) Grand Prix at Jerez. (ITA/Yamaha) 7.547, 7. Franco Mor- 75 points, 2. Thomas Luethi (SUI/ The Honda rider led from the bidelli (ITA/Yamaha-SRT) 8.228, 8. Cal Kalex) 58, 3. Marcel Schroetter (GER/ fi rst corner to chequered fl ag, Crutchlow (GBR/Honda-LCR) 10.052, Kalex) 48 heading a Spanish one-two- 9. Takaaki Nakagami (JPN/Yamaha) three with Suzuki’s Alex Rins 10.274, 10. Stefan Bradl (GER/Honda) Moto3 1.654 seconds behind as runner- 13.402 1. Niccolo Antonelli (ITA/Honda) up and Maverick Vinales third for 39mins 30.327secs, 2. Tatsuki Suzuki Yamaha. World championship standings (JAP/Honda) at 0.242, 3. Celestino Marquez, who crashed while (after four rounds): Vietti (ITA/KTM) 0.305 leading in the previous round in 1. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda): 70 World championship standings Texas, started third on the grid points, 2. Alex Rins (ESP/Suzuki) 69, (after three rounds) and now has 70 points after his 3. Andrea Dovizioso, (ITA/Ducati) 67, 1. Aron Canet (ESP/KTM) 58 points, second win of the campaign. 4. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) 61, 5. 2. Niccolo Antonelli (ITA/Honda) 57, Rins is on 69 thanks to his Danilo Petrucci (ITA/Ducati) 41 3. Jaume Masia (ESP/KTM) 45 second successive podium, with Andrea Dovizioso dropping from the overall lead to third on 67 af- crashed in Saturday practice, was quez, brother of Marc Marquez, ter fi nishing fourth on his works ruled unfi t to start after a morn- and needed treatment on the Ducati. ing medical. track before being hauled away, The Italian was right on the tail The next race is the French Marquez eventually fi nishing of Vinales in the closing stages Grand Prix at Le Mans on May 19. sixth. but ran out of time to get past. Meanwhile, Italy’s Lorenzo Earlier Honda completed a “It was more diffi cult mentally Baldassari on a Kalex won his one-two in the Spanish Moto 3 than physically. After the mistake third Moto2 GP of the season on Sunday as Italian Niccolo An- in Austin it is not easy to race here when dominating the fi eld at Je- tonelli won with Japanese rider and lead the race from the begin- rez to extend his world champi- Tatsuki Suzuki collecting a fi rst ning to the end,” said Marquez. onships lead. podium fi nish in second. “But I am convinced about my The 22-year-old won in Qa- They were followed home by performance and of the bike, I’m tar and Argentina before fall- two KTM riders with Celestino feeling really good. ing last time out in the United Vietti third and Spaniard Aron “It was a bit hard to know why States, making up for that slip as Canet fourth, which was enough we crashed in Austin so today, he rampaged around the Jerez de to take the lead in the overall this weekend, I felt really good, la Frontera track to beat Spanish standings. really smooth, riding like I want.” Repsol Honda Team’s Marc Marquez celebrates on the podium after winning the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez yesterday. pair Jorge Navarro and Augusto “I feel fantastic,” said Antonelli Vinales said being on his home Fernandez. at the fi nish. podium felt like a victory after some places at the start so I’m re- tumbled from second to fourth position, had looked set for the Australian Jack Miller crashed “I did a great job, the team Suzuki led for much of the race a tough start to the season and ally happy. The team is working in the championship on 61 points podium but his Petronas Yama- his Pramac Ducati after collid- worked well but this win is also at the head of a tightly-bunched struggling with starts. good, I need confi dence.” after four rounds of the season. ha slowed on lap 14 after getting ing with Aprilia’s Spaniard Aleix for me,” Baldarassi said. pack but after Antonelli overtook “Finally I think we found out His Italian teammate Valentino French 20-year-old Fabio stuck in third gear. Espargaro while trying to go The race was marked by an in the closing laps, the Japanese a method that is working really Rossi took sixth place after start- Quartararo, who had started as The distraught rookie headed through on the inside at turn 13. early accident when Australia’s rider had to fi ght to hold off Vi- good,” he said. “Actually I won ing 13th. The 40-year-old great the youngest ever rider on pole back to the garage and retired. Aprilia’s Andrea Iannone, who Remy Gardner ran into Alex Mar- etti.

PREVIEW/AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Ferreira urges Sadd fans to turn up in full force

By Sports Reporter points, one ahead of Iran’s Persepolis. game but it wasn’t a fair result for us. Doha Al Sadd started off this year’s compe- We have now won the league title and tition on a losing note as they were at the the players are highly motivated. The receiving end of a 0-2 verdict against Al month of May could be crucial for us, esualdo Ferreira has confi rmed Ahli. The Wolves beat Persepolis 1-0 in both domestically and in Asia. this will be his last season as Al the second round. “This is our last game at home in the Sadd coach while urging fans to Holding Pakhtakor 2-2 and then group stage and so it is very important turn up in large numbers for the beating them 2-1 back-to-back was a for us. Winning it will take us to the club’sJ AFC Champions League Group creditable achievement for Al Sadd, next round. Al Sadd always impress at D match against Saudi giants Al Ahli at whose morale is high after clinching home. the Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Stadium its record-extending 14th Qatar league “Tomorrow’s game will be fully dif- today. The match will begin at 9.45pm. title. ferent from the away. All that we are The veteran Portuguese tactician They have also reached the Amir Cup trying for us to get the three points to guided The Wolves to their 14th league semi-fi nal by beating Al Gharafa 4-2 in increase the gap between us and them title last month and is now serving out the last-eight stage. Al Sadd take on Al to four and to secure qualifi cation.” the fi nal weeks of his contract, having Rayyan in the last four on 11th May. Al Sadd’s star player Bounedjah also joined the team in November 2015. Against Al Ahli, Al Sadd will get appealed to fans to show up in full force. “I’m proud of this group of players back the services of defender Pedro “I hope the Al Sadd fans attend in and their ability to win in all games. Miguel and striker Akram Afi f, who huge numbers, like they are used to do- My message to the fans is come in large both missed their last game against Pa- ing, and help the team to victory and numbers tomorrow and show support khtakor due to suspension. The Wolves’ qualifi cation for the next round.” for the players,” Ferreira said at his pre- fi rst-choice goalkeeper Saad al-Dossari Meanwhile, Al Duhail take on Iran’s match press conference yesterday. may also play after missing their Amir Esteghlal’s in Group C today in Tehran. “My contract with the team will end Cup quarter-fi nal against Al Gharafa. Rui Faria’s men can confi rm their place after this season. A new coach will take Al Sadd boast of the likes of Xavi Her- in the next round with a draw, provided the reins and I wish him all the best. Al nandez, Baghdad Bounedjah, Abdulka- Al Hilal defeat Al Ain in the other fi x- Sadd currently rely on big players, who rim Hassan, Hamed Ismail, Boualem ture. are going to lead the team alongside the Khoukhi and Tarek Salman. Goals from Medhi Benatia, Youssef El new coach,” added the 72-year-old. Ferreira added that Al Sadd’s loss Arabi and Ali Afi f had given Al Duhail a Al Sadd are leading Group D with sev- to Al Ahli in the previous fi xture was a perfect start to the campaign with a 3-0 en points, one more than Al Ahli. Uz- thing of the past. win over Esteghlal in the reverse fi xture bekistan’s Pakhtakor are third with fi ve “We lost against Al Ahli in our fi rst two months ago. Gulf Times 2 Monday, May 6, 2019 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Chelsea up to third as jeers United’s Champs turn to cheers

AFP London

aurizio Sarri ad- League hopes end mitted tired Chel- sea got “lucky” as they moved to the Mbrink of Champions League qualifi cation with a 3-0 win over Watford yesterday. Sarri’s side were booed off after a sloppy fi rst half, but aft er shock draw two goals in three minutes from Ruben Loftus-Cheek “After the fi rst goal prob- UNITED HAVE NOW WON JUST TWO OF THEIR PAST 11 GAMES IN ALL COMPETITIONS and David Luiz lifted the ably we improved mentally mood at Stamford Bridge. and were able to play very well Gonzalo Higuain sealed for 35 minutes. It’s not easy the victory and third placed to play again after a Europa Chelsea are now one point League away match. clear of fourth placed Tot- “We were not able to think tenham after their fi rst win in a simple way. When you are in four games in all competi- tired you have to move the ball tions. quickly, the ball is not tired, If the Blues win their last the man is!” league game of the season at Before heading to Leicester, Leicester next Sunday they Chelsea host Eintracht Frank- will be certain to qualify for furt in the Europa League next season’s Champions semi-fi nals on Thursday, with League via a top-four fi nish. the tie poised at 1-1 after the Sarri conceded he was re- fi rst leg. Finishing in the top lieved to survive such a poor four and winning the Europa opening. League would make Sarri’s “In the fi rst half we were in troubled fi rst season a relative trouble because we were tired success. physically and mentally. But “We want to be in the top Watford lowered their level four at the end of the season. after that. We were lucky of We want to be in the Champi- course,” Sarri said. ons League,” he said.

SETBACK

RESULTS Arsenal draw ends „Arsenal 1 (Aubameyang 9-pen) Brighton 1 (Murray 61-pen) realistic hopes of „Chelsea 3 (Loftus-Cheek 48, Luiz 51, Higuain 75) Watford 0 „Huddersfield 1 (Mbenza 60) top-four fi nish Manchester United 1 (McTomi- nay 8) Playing today Manchester City v Leicester (1900 GMT)

Manchester United’s Paul Pogba (R) in action with Huddersfield Town’s Juninho Bacuna during their Premier League match yesterday.

AFP on Huddersfi eld for a helping Huddersfield, United Kingdom hand as McTominay’s strike from TABLE DOESN’T LIE, SAYS SOLSKJAER the edge of the box went straight through Lossl’s legs after just Brighton’s Spanish defender Bruno Saltor (L) clears the ball in anchester United’s Reuters, London: Manchester than watching the ones in the eight minutes. front of Arsenal’s German midfielder Mesut Ozil. hopes of Champions United manager Ole Gunnar red shirts to be honest with United quickly got the game League football next Solskjaer admitted his side you,” Neville said. restarted as they sought more Reuters changes for their fi nal Premier season were ended can have no complaints about “At least you can identify with goals to improve their inferior London League home game, juggling afterM an embarrassing 1-1 draw goal diff erence compared to their the club’s league ambitions finishing outside the Premier them. Nothing about this United at already relegated Huddersfi eld League’s top four after their fate team I like at all. They’re just aw- rivals for a top-four fi nish. with Thursday’s second leg in yesterday. was sealed by a lacklustre 1-1 ful. They’re a despondent group However, even against a Hud- rsenal’s chances of Valencia, including recalls for United have now won just two draw at bottom club Hudders- of people.” dersfi eld side that previously qualifying for the Nacho Monreal, Lucas Torreira of their past 11 games in all com- field Town yesterday. United have won just one of registered just 14 points all sea- Champions League and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. petitions as Huddersfi eld ended Needing six points from their their last six league games and son, United could not press home Avia a top-four fi n- Arsenal were impressive in a run of eight straight defeats last two games, and results were dismantled by Barce- their advantage. ish in the Premier League were the early stages at the Emirates despite goalkeeper Jonas Lossl’s to go their way, United were lona in the Champions League Juan Mata curled inches wide all but snuff ed out yesterday and Pierre-Emerick Aubam- error handing the visitors an early always facing a tough task to quarter-finals. Next year they after some neat interplay be- as they were held 1-1 by lowly eyang struck from the penalty lead through Scott McTominay. qualify for next season’s Cham- sparked a spectacular change will be in the Europa League, a tween Marcus Rashford and Paul Brighton. spot in the ninth minute after Terrible defending from Ole pions League. in fortunes after Jose Mourinho level Solskjaer says is fair indica- Pogba before Pogba also saw a The draw leaves Unai Em- Monreal was brought down in Gunnar Solskjaer’s men gave the But a failure to beat a side who was sacked in December, told tor of where United are. looping header come back off the ery’s men in fi fth spot, three the area by Alireza Jahanba- Terriers something to celebrate had managed only 14 points in the BBC. “Europa League is probably the crossbar. points behind north London khsh. in their fi nal home game before their previous 36 games, just “The table doesn’t lie in the right place for us this season,” Solskjaer had kept faith with rivals Tottenham, who have The visitors, whose Premier heading down to the Champion- about summed up the malaise end.” Solskjaer said. “The Europa David de Gea in goal despite three a far superior goal diff erence, League survival was assured ship as Isaac Mbenza levelled on United find themselves in as the Former defender Gary Neville League can be a positive — look high-profi le errors leading to and means they can no longer when Cardiff lost at home to the hour mark. Chelsea’s 3-0 vic- season ends in an anti-climax. did not hold back during his at what Arsenal and Chelsea goals in his previous four games. catch Chelsea, who have 71 Crystal Palace on Saturday, tory over Watford means United “We haven’t deserved to be top role as co-commentator for Sky (who are both in the semi-finals) Huddersfi eld did not even test De points. Leaders Liverpool and came back strongly, putting fall four points outside the top four, we’ve chased the pack Sports. have done this season.” Gea’s nerve until fi ve minutes be- Manchester City have already pressure on a nervy home side four with just one game of the and been given chances, the “This is Huddersfield Town Captain Ashley Young said it fore the break when Karlan Grant sealed the top two spots ahead but Aubameyang went close season to go. league is so tight. When we got who have struggled all season. was a “massive disappoint- broke clear after an errant clear- of the fi nal round of Premier shortly before half-time. And failure to beat statisti- the opportunities we didn’t take Watch this Huddersfield team, ment” for the club to finish ance from Phil Jones. However, League fi xtures next weekend. Brighton levelled from a cally one of the worst teams ever them,” Solskjaer, who initially they haven’t got the quality, but outside the Champions League De Gea spread himself well to Arsenal can also reach the disputed penalty in the 61st to play in the Premier League will I like watching them a lot more spots. block a weak fi nish with his legs. Champions League by winning minute. see further questions raised over Huddersfi eld had only scored the Europa League and they are Solly March went down the decision to hand Solskjaer a nine goals at home all season, but in a strong position to reach under minimal contact from three-year contract in March. recalled Alexis Sanchez to his more fi repower.But the Chilean before limping off just before the one hopeful punt from Lossl cut the fi nal, 3-1 up after the home Granit Xhaka and Glenn Mur- The Norwegian has bemoaned starting line-up for the fi rst time again failed to live up to his sta- hour mark. United open for the equaliser on leg of their semi-fi nal against ray found the net from the re- United’s lack of goals of late and in two months in the search for tus as the club’s highest earner Instead the visitors had to rely the hour mark. Valencia.Emery made fi ve sulting spot-kick.

BOTTOMLINE Liverpool face nervous wait on Salah injury AFP the doc had to make a decision ‘on the Roberto Firmino due to a groin injury. Tottenham defender Jan Vertong- Newcastle pitch or off the pitch’, and the decision However, they remain in the hunt hen was allowed to briefl y return to the was off the pitch. We accept that of for a fi rst English title for 29 years fi eld during his side’s 1-0 Champions course. as Salah’s replacement, Divock Ori- League semi-fi nal, fi rst leg defeat to iverpool face an anxious wait to “When we came in he was sitting in gi, headed home a late winner at St. Ajax after receiving treatment to a head see if Mohamed Salah will be fi t the dressing room watching the game James’ Park to move back two points injury. However, the Belgian defender to play against Barcelona in the on television. So he was then fi ne, but clear of Manchester City at the top of lasted only a few seconds before hav- second leg of their Champions of course we have to wait. He got a the table. ing to be substituted as he struggled to LLeague semi-fi nal tomorrow after the proper knock, obviously, in that situ- The title remains in City’s hands as walk unaided and retched on the side of Egyptian star suff ered a head knock in ation.” they have two games to play to Liver- the pitch. a thrilling 3-2 win at Newcastle that Salah, who had extended his lead in pool’s one. Salah was seen walking un- Tottenham have insisted Vertong- kept their Premier League title dreams the race for the Golden Boot earlier in aided to the team coach after the game hen did not suff er concussion, but he alive. the game with his 22nd league goal of and the Reds hope he could feature was left out of Saturday’s defeat at Salah was stretchered off after chal- the season, will undergo further tests against Wolves next weekend to take Bournemouth after specialists advised lenging Newcastle goalkeeper Martin to assess his fi tness for Barca’s visit to advantage if City do slip up. a “brief period of rehabilitation.” Dubravka for a high ball with scores Anfi eld today and the fi nal day of the Despite their desperation for silver- The incident has led for renewed level 20 minutes from time. league season against Wolves on next ware, Liverpool will be under the spot- calls for football to adopt a head injury “What I heard, he got the hip of Sunday. Liverpool face a monumental light for how they handle Salah’s in- assessment protocol similar to rugby the goalie on his head,” said Liverpool Liverpool’s Egyptian midfielder Mohamed Salah reacts as he is placed on a task to overturn a 3-0 fi rst leg defi cit jury after a week in which the protocols where teams are permitted to make a manager Jurgen Klopp. stretcher after injuring himself in a challenge with Newcastle United’s Slovakian against the Spanish champions and surrounding head injuries in football temporary substitution while the ex- “He was then on the ground and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka (not pictured) on Saturday. will also be without Brazilian striker were questioned. tent of head injuries are examined. Gulf Times Monday, May 6, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

SERIE A FOCUS Derby cement Atalanta’s Champions playoff spot

Reuters League belief growing London erby County sealed their place in the pro- motion playoffs with a 3-1 victory over WestD Bromwich Albion on the final day of the Champion- as Roma held in Genoa ship season yesterday, leaving Middlesbrough facing another The battle for Champions League remains tight with six teams in the running for the final two places year in the second tier. Frank Lampard’s Derby side needed a AFP victory to guarantee sixth place Milan and they could start celebrating after two goals in three minutes in the second half from Mason talanta coach Gian Piero Bennett and Harry Wilson set- Gasperini said his side’s be- tled the jitters. lief in a fi rst-ever Champi- West Brom, already assured Aons League qualifi cation was of fourth spot, had equalised gaining momentum after a 3-1 come- just after halftime through Ste- back win over Lazio yesterday as rivals fan Johansen after Derby had Roma were held 1-1 at Genoa. led at the interval through Mar- “We believed in a Champions League tyn Waghorn’s header. place before, but now we believe in it Middlesbrough did their even more,” said Gasperini. part, winning 2-1 away at The side from Bergamo are comforta- Rotherham United while Bristol bly fourth and move to within one point City, who also still had a chance of third-placed Inter Milan who were of making the top six if results held to their third consecutive stale- went their way, drew 1-1 at Hull mate on Saturday with a goalless draw City. at Udinese. “The lads deserved it and we Roma missed the chance to close the played brilliantly in spells but gap after a 1-1 draw at Genoa and are when it goes back to 1-1 you now three points behind Atalanta in fear, I knew Middlesbrough fi fth. were winning,” Chelsea great The battle for Champions League Lampard told Sky Sports. football remains tight with six teams in “They were magnificent to- the running for the fi nal two places. day. I said be brave, there was a Champions Juventus are assured of a lot on this game.” berth with a 19-point lead on second- Norwich City were confirmed placed Napoli, who host Cagliari later as champions after winning yesterday, and are also positioned for 2-1 away at fifth-placed Aston top-tier European football next season. Villa. Sheffield United, who Torino are two points behind Roma in finished runners-up and also sixth after a 1-1 draw against Juventus gained automatic promotion to on Friday. the Premier League, ended with But AC Milan, in seventh, can move a 2-2 draw at Stoke City. Third- to three points off the fi nal Champions placed Leeds United, who for League place with a win at home against so long seemed destined to go Bologna today. up automatically before a late- “It’s not done yet, as there are Milan season slump, finished their and Roma who are right up there. We’ve Atalanta’s defender from Albania Berat Djimsiti (C) celebrates with his teammates after scoring against Lazio during their Italian Serie A football match at the Olympic regular season with a surprise perhaps pushed Lazio behind now, but stadium in Rome. 3-2 defeat by bottom club Ips- it’s still wide open,” said Gasperini. wich Town. The Atalanta coach said their self- opened the scoring for Lazio after just Ronaldo, with 22 this season, and is thought they had the winner when they sit just four above the relegation It means Leeds and Derby belief has been gaining momentum three minutes in the Stadio Olimpico. three short of league top scorer Fabio Stephan El Shaarawy volleyed in after zone. will face each other in a two- since a 2-1 win at Napoli two weeks ago, But Duvan Zapata hit back on 22 min- Quagliarella of Sampdoria. 82 minutes. In Parma, veteran striker Quagliarella legged playoff semi-final clash and the in-form northerners return to utes for his sixth goal in eight league Timothy Castagne added a second But Cristian Romero nodded in on 90 scored a brace for Sampdoria in a 3-3 with added spice after the so Rome again on May 15 for the Coppa games. just before the hour mark with Lazio’s minutes for Genoa, with the hosts miss- draw to extend his lead on top of the Se- called “spy-gate” saga in which Italia fi nal against Lazio. Zapata had threatened early on send- Brazilian defender Wallace turning into ing the chance for a winner with goal- rie A scorers to 25 goals. Leeds officials were caught at “I had already said I would choose ing a shot over the bar but made no his own net after 76 minutes. keeper Antonio Mirante saving Antonio At the bottom of the table, Frosinone Derby’s training ground before the place in the Champions League, mistake at the second time of asking by Lazio’s Champions League hopes, Sanabria’s weak penalty eff ort. join Chievo in Serie B next season after the sides met in January. but raising a trophy is not an everyday latching onto a Remo Freuler cross to however, have faded with Simone Inza- “It’s a pity because we needed the a 2-2 draw at Sassuolo. The side from Head coach Marcelo Bielsa thing,” said Gasperini. fi re in. ghi’s side seven points adrift of top four three points, but we won’t give up,” said outside Rome are ten points behind subsequently admitted he had Atalanta had gotten off to the worst The Colombian has scored one goal with the Europa League also at risk. Ranieri. Udinese in 17th with three games left to spied on all of Leeds’ oppo- possible start after Marco Parolo had more than Juventus star Cristiano In Genoa, Claudio Ranieri’s side For Genoa it was a precious point as play. nents in a similar manner.

PREVIEW LA LIGA Liverpool turn We’re not throwing fl owers into the air: Zidane to Rodgers to halt Man City The destiny of the title AFP Results Manchester remains in City’s hands as Pep Guardiola’s men have two games to play to „Getafe 2 (Jorge Molina 16, anchester City Liverpool’s one Rodríguez Díaz 77) Girona 0 must overhaul Liv- „Eibar 1 (Angel 45+1) Real Betis erpool once more However, Liverpool have been 0 Min a titanic Premier waiting a long time for City to „Real Madrid 3 (Mariano 2, 49, League title race when Leicester slip up. Vallejo 40) Villarreal 2 (Gerard 11, boss Brendan Rodgers attempts Guardiola’s men are on a 12- Jaume 90+4) to help out his old club at the Eti- game winning run in the Pre- „Valladolid 1 (Rubio 21) Athletic had today. mier League and have had the Bilbao 0 The destiny of the title re- rare luxury of eight days off since Played on Saturday mains in City’s hands as Pep they edged out Burnley 1-0 last „Levante 4 (Campana 14, Vezo Guardiola’s men have two games weekend. 43, Jason 86, Bardhi 90) Rayo to play to Liverpool’s one. Yet, with City travelling to Vallecano 1 (Garcia Rivera 71) But the Reds refuse to give up lowly Brighton on the fi nal day of „Espanyol 3 (Godin 45+1-o.g., on a fi rst league title in 29 years the season with the Seagulls now Iglesias 52, 89-pen) Atletico as Divock Origi’s late winner in a safe after Cardiff ’s relegation on Madrid 0 thrilling 3-2 victory at Newcas- Saturday, Leicester and Rodg- „Alaves 0 Real Sociedad 1 (Wil- tle on Saturday sent them two ers present their best chance of lian José 24) points ahead at the top of the ta- springing a surprise. „Celta Vigo 2 (Gómez 67, Aspas ble once more. The Foxes beat City when 88-pen) Barcelona 0 Rodgers came closer to ending the sides last met in December that drought than any other Liv- and held Liverpool at Anfi eld in erpool boss over the past three January. Leicester also thrashed decades as his side fell just two Arsenal 3-0 last weekend in points short of City in 2013/14. their most complete perform- Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior receives instructions from coach Zinedine Zidane before being substituted yesterday. And in just over two months in ance since Rodgers took charge charge, the Northern Irishman and Jamie Vardy has enjoyed the AFP Brahim Diaz and Federico Valverde were ladolid. Mariano’s display begs the question has rejuvenated the Foxes to give change of management more Madrid given chances to impress, along with Madrid would need to win both of their whether he could have been more useful Leicester an outside chance of than most by bagging nine goals Mariano, who has barely been used since remaining matches and Atletico lose both during a campaign where his team have European football next season if in eight games. joining from Lyon last summer. of theirs to prevent Diego Simeone’s side struggled for goals. they win their fi nal two games of “We’ve got real speed in the eal Madrid delivered a winning His two goals, either side of Vallejo fi nishing as the top team in the capital for In that regard, the sight of Vinicius Jun- the season. team. You’ve got to be super response to Zinedine Zidane’s scoring his fi rst for the club, were enough, the second year running. ior coming off the bench here and making “I think Brendan shows his compact as a team and tight,” stinging criticism as Mariano despite Jaume Costa pulling a late goal But more of a concern for Zidane will his fi rst appearance in two months after incredible quality as a manager said Rodgers on the thread of Diaz scored twice in a 3-2 victory back for Villarreal to set up an unexpect- be the 15-point gap behind Barcelona, recovering from injury will also have been that in just two months his team Vardy. overR Villarreal yesterday. edly nervy fi nish. which would likely be even bigger had the a welcome boost. play already they way he wants to “They’re littered with world An angry Zidane questioned the at- “We played better than against Rayo,” already-crowned champions not rested Mariano had scored inside two min- play,” said City boss Pep Guar- class players and world class titude of his players after last week’s 1-0 Zidane said. “We needed that and the players for the Champions League in re- utes, prodding in after Santi Cazorla had diola. players will always fi nd the space. loss to Rayo Vallecano and reacted by players needed it. We played well, no cent weeks. been robbed in midfi eld by the energetic “They are so fast players, they “You’ve got to try and nul- making more changes, with Luka Modric more, we’re not throwing fl owers into the Zidane warned Madrid’s expectant Brahim. have incredible quality. I was re- lify the space and then you know and Gareth Bale not even included in the air. We did the job and we won.” fans on Saturday that much of his current The advantage lasted only nine min- ally impressed with the way they that when you break through squad. The result leaves third-placed Madrid squad will still be at the club next season utes as this time Casemiro was caught play, the players know it will be that pressure there’s going to be “I am the coach,” Zidane said. “I pick six points behind Atletico Madrid in La but this felt like another exercise in ex- napping in his own half, allowing Gerard an incredible task for us, but of space, and that’s something this the squad and that’s it.” Liga with two games left. Villarreal stay perimentation, inside a Santiago Berna- Moreno the chance to fi re past Thibaut course it’s already a fi nal for us.” team are very, very good at.” Instead, youngsters like Jesus Vallejo, fi ve points above 18th-placed Real Val- beu that looked only a little over half full. Courtois at the near post. Gulf Times 4 Monday, May 6, 2019 SPORT

HORSE RACING/KENTUCKY DERBY SPOTLIGHT Federer having fun on Madrid dirt Country House wins Dan Evans. “I’m happy I’m AFP Madrid here and I’m happy I’m on the surface.” Seeking a fourth career title oger Federer says he in Madrid, Federer was drawn doesn’t have high ex- in the same half of the draw pectations entering as top-seeded Novak Djoko- his fi rst clay-court vic and shares a quarter with as Maximum Security seasonR since 2016 but has en- in-form number fi ve seed Do- joyed practicing on the red dirt minic Thiem. ahead of this week’s Madrid While some rustiness on ‘First of all, I think our horse ran great. Open. the surface can be expected, Seeded number four in the Federer admits it wasn’t too As far as the win goes, it’s bittersweet. Spanish capital, Federer is much of an uphill battle when making his fi rst appearance it came to readjusting to the I’d be lying if I said it was any diff erent’ at the Caja Magica since 2015. clay these past few weeks. disqualifi ed The 37-year-old Swiss opted “Not too much, funnily out of the clay swing the last enough. Look, it takes some two seasons but announced in time getting used to how to January that he was ready to construct the points maybe a make a return to the surface little bit more. Because there is this year. more baseline, there is a possi- He has a bye in the fi rst bility to play with more angles round and will open his cam- and height, I guess, off a hard paign on Tuesday night ball you can roll it and spin against either Richard Gasquet it and go loopy, whereas on a or Spanish teenage wildcard faster court you almost have to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. hit against it. It is hard to take “It’s been good. It’s been pace off the ball,” explained fun. I was lucky, we had good Federer. weather when I started. So that “So, from that standpoint, helped because I remember it’s been interesting and fun. three or four years ago, when I But not so challenging, to was practising it was snowing, be honest. But then again, like this weekend in Switzer- matches might be a completely land, and that didn’t inspire diff erent story. me very much to go practice on “I have not high expecta- clay, or go into an indoor bub- tions in some ways, but at the ble and stuff , so this year was same time I also know that easy. I enjoyed myself a lot,” things are possible. I mean said Federer, whose prepara- Madrid always plays fast with tion period included a four- the altitude here, so intrigued day training block at home to fi nd out myself. But it’s been with British world number 85 good so far.”

Roger Federer

Jockey Flavien Prat astride Country House celebrates as Country House is declared the winner after a stewards review disqualified Maximum Security during the 145th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. (Getty Images/AFP) Gimelstob right to resign says Federer

AFP judged signifi cantly aff ected the claim foul,” Prat later confi rmed, he had steadied his mount before which is our typical procedure.” Roger Federer believes there maybe be put back in the Los Angeles outcome of the race. The result as did the rider of Long Range any harm was done, but he end- Trainer Bob Baff ert, seeking a should be lessons learned mix,” Federer told reporters at gave trainer Bill Mott a fi rst Ken- Toddy. “I thought (Maximum ed up 17th in the 19-horse fi eld. record-equalling sixth Kentucky from the Justin Gimelstob the Madrid Open on Sunday. tucky Derby victory at the age of Security) had shifted out a lot. “I thought I never put any- Derby victory a year after guid- ordeal and is happy the “But then again I don’t know ountry House, a 65-1 65. “First of all, I think our horse We had been slightly bothered in body in danger,” Saez said. ing Justify to the coveted Triple American chose to step down if he would want to be after longshot, won the 145th ran great,” Mott said. that incident.” Code of Honor fi nished sec- Crown, had three horses in the from his position on the ATP everything that happened. Kentucky Derby on “As far as the win goes, it’s ond after the disqualifi cation, race but none was a factor. board. Gimelstob plead no Sometimes when these things Saturday after wire-to- bittersweet. I’d be lying if I said ‘DIFFICULT DECISION’ followed by Tacitus. Now it remains to be seen if contest to a felony assault, happen, it is like ‘Okay, I had a wireC leader Maximum Security it was any diff erent. Mott had no doubt that the right In a prepared statement, Bar- Country House, having seized reduced to a misdemeanour, good run, and it’s okay to go’.” was stunningly disqualifi ed from “You always want to win with decision was made. bara Borden, chief steward for the fi rst jewel of the Triple after attacking an old friend, The silence from the leading the top spot. a clean trip and have everybody “This is horse racing,” he said. the state of Kentucky, said that Crown in controversial style, can venture capitalist Randall voices of the game following It was the fi rst time the horse recognise the horse as the great “There are two horses in the race Maximum Security’s mis-step contend in the Preakness and Kaplan last Halloween. news of Gimelstob’s sentenc- that crossed the fi nish line fi rst athlete he is. Due to the disquali- that lost all chance to win a Ken- aff ected several horses. Belmont Stakes. The former tennis player, who ing was seen as deafening, in the Kentucky Derby was de- fi cation probably some of that is tucky Derby (when Maximum “We had a lengthy review of Certainly the end to Satur- is also the coach of John Isner, with only players like Andy nied victory because it hindered diminished.” Security veered off the rail). And the race. We interviewed the af- day’s race will do little to ignite was sentenced to three years Murray and Stan Wawrinka another horse. Country House jockey Flavien they were in a position at that fected riders. We determined enthusiasm for racing in Amer- of probation, must serve 60 calling for his removal from Maximum Security, trained by Prat of France also won his fi rst time to hit the board. that the 7 horse (Maximum Se- ica, where 23 horse deaths in a days of community service the board before the Ameri- John Servis and ridden by Luis Derby – after crossing the line “I know the stewards had a curity) drifted out and impacted three-month span at Santa An- and complete 52 weeks of can took the decision himself. Saez, was running comfortably 1 1/2 lengths behind Maximum very diffi cult decision,” Mott the progress of the number 1 ita racetrack in California have anger management classes. “I think it’s definitely the right in front on the sloppy Churchill Security. added. “I’m glad I wasn’t in their (War of Will), in turn interfering put the sport under scrutiny. Gimelstob has been an move by Justin. He needs to Downs track in Louisville, Ken- “We had a pretty good trip shoes. With that being said, I’m with the 18 (Long Range Toddy) The only other time an ap- influential figure in the politi- go back and figure things out. tucky, but the colt moved sharp- and then when I came around damn glad they put our number and 21 (Bodexpress),” she said. parent Kentucky Derby winner cal scene on the men’s tour There is no doubt about that. ly out from the rail as the fi eld the turn I was outside and all of up.” “Those horses were all af- lost a victory was in 1968, when and was believed to be a key And the Tour needs to keep turned for home. a sudden there was a real move But it was a massive blow for fected, we thought, by the in- Dancer’s Image tested positive factor behind the non-renewal moving forward in these chal- After an objection and a nail- from the inside to the outside,” Servis and Panamanian jockey terference, therefore we unani- for a banned medication and of ATP CEO Chris Kermode’s lenging times and important biting 20-minute review, he was Prat recalled as trainers, jockeys Saez, who said previously un- mously determined to disqualify Kentucky racing offi cials redis- contract beyond 2019. times right now,” said Federer. ruled to have interfered with and a crowd of 150,729 waited in beaten Maximum Security was number 7 and place him behind tributed the purse sometime Now that Gimelstob has “I was speaking also to some War of Will and other horses – a suspense for the outcome of the startled turning for home by the the 18 – the 18 being the lowest- after the fact, making Forward vacated his board seat, of the players on the Council move that stewards ultimately stewards’ inquiry. “I did actually roar of the crowd. Saez thought placed horse that he bothered, Pass the offi cial winner. many believe the decision to get a feel where they were on Kermode’s fate should be standing when everything reversed. was brewing and I’m happy TENNIS “I don’t know exactly the that the decision was taken process, when the votes are by Justin and that now we happening, when the new can move forward and really CEO, all this stuff gets decided. like learn from what had hap- Garin overcomes Berrettini to win Munich title But anyway [Kermode] should pened also.” AFP OSAKA BEAT CIBULKOVA, aces while world 33 Cibulkova conjured Berlin KYRGIOS EXITS up 23 winners. Naomi Osaka eased concerns about her “I was also kind of thinking, like, there form and fi tness by coming through a is nowhere else I’d rather be and honestly hile’s Cristian Garin completed tricky fi rst round against Dominika Ci- I train for these moments so I have to give a dream week by beating Matteo bulkova yesterday at the Madrid Open. it 100 percent,” said Osaka after her fi rst Berrettini 6-1, 3-6, 7-6 (7/1) in Osaka has struggled since splitting with main draw win in Madrid. the fi nal of the Munich Open yes- her coach Sascha Bajin in February while “I feel like there’s an adjustment period terdayC to claim the second ATP tour title an abdominal injury forced her to with- for me on clay and it took a few years. of his career. draw in Stuttgart eight days ago, creating “But now I’m more comfortable. I’m Ranked 47 in the world at the begin- doubts about her challenge at the French not sure if it’s because I had a really long ning of the tournament, Garin pulled off Open later this month. training block before I came to start the a string of surprises in Munich, knocking But there was little sign of physical season, but yeah, it feels good.” out world number three Alexander Zverev problems during a testing 6-2, 7-6 (8/6) Meanwhile, French Open champion and third seed Marco Cecchinato on his victory over Cibulkova and afterwards, and two-time Madrid winner Simona way to the fi nal. The 22-year-old wobbled Osaka said: “I feel good. I don’t have Halep brushed past Russian qualifi er when serving for the match at 5-3 in the much pain in my abs so that’s always a Margarita Gasparyan 6-0, 6-4. Karolina fi nal set, but triumphed in the tie break to good sign.” Pliskova saved fi ve match points to see off beat Berrettini in an enthralling fi nal. Chile’s Christian Garin poses with the The Japanese world number one will highly-rated Ukrainian teenager Dayana Having been ranked outside the top 200 trophy after winning the Munich Open in now face Spain’s Sara Sorribes Tormo in Yastremska 5-7, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3. just a year ago, Garin won his fi rst ever Munich yesterday. (AFP) round two. Osaka looked set for a more In one of the few ATP matches played ATP tour title in Houston last month, be- comfortable passage after a dominant Sunday, Australia’s Nick Kyrgios was a coming the fi rst Chilean singles champion fourth seed Roberto Bautista Agut 6-4, opening set but she was stretched by the 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 loser to Germany’s Jan- on the circuit in ten years. 6-2 in a semi-fi nal held over from Satur- battling Cibulkova in the second. By the Lennard Struff , a quarter-fi nalist in Bar- Berrettini had earlier defeated Spanish day due to rain. end, Osaka had hit 43 winners and eight celona last month. Gulf Times Monday, May 6, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA NHL Hertl scores Rockets edge past pair as Sharks take 3-2 lead

Reuters Game 7 of the fi rst-round series San Jose with Vegas, was on the ice after Warriors in the morning skate on Saturday, a big step to him returning. omas Hertl scored both goals and Martin Jones PASTRNAK PROVIDES made 21 saves as the host FIREPOWER AS BRUINS LEAD San Jose Sharks claimed David Pastrnak scored the game Ta 2-1 win over the Colorado Ava- winner with 88 seconds left in a lanche Saturday night and are wild third period to lift the Bos- overtime thriller one game away from reaching the ton Bruins to a 4-3 win over Co- Western Conference fi nal. lumbus in game fi ve of their NHL The Sharks, who lead the best- second round playoff series on Harden drains a three-pointer with 49 seconds left and finishes with 41 points of-seven second-round Stanley Saturday. Cup playoff s series 3-2, will look Pastrnak, who struggled of- AFP to close it out in Game 6 tonight fensively early in the series, redi- Los Angeles in Denver. No team has yet won rected a pass from Brad March- two straight games in what’s and to just inside the post and been an entertaining and hard- out of the reach of Blue Jackets ames Harden out-duelled Kevin fought series. star goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. Durant down the stretch to lift the For the second time, though, It was the second goal of the Houston Rockets to a 126-121 over- the Sharks erased a second- period for the Czech forward and Jtime victory over Golden State on period defi cit before going on to it capped a burst of fi ve goals in Saturday that trimmed the defi cit in their victory. With his team down 1-0, an eight minute span by both NBA playoff series. Hertl tied the game with 19.4 teams. David Krejci and March- Harden drained a three-pointer with seconds remaining in the mid- and also scored for Boston and 49 seconds left in overtime and after dle frame. While the Sharks had goaltender Tuukka Rask made Durant made three free throws he added a man-advantage, Logan Cou- 33 saves. Rask’s best stop was a a step-back fl oater that proved the fi nal ture one-timed a point shot that clutch leg pad block of a Cam At- dagger. “Close the game — that’s what Hertl defl ected into the cage for kinson shot with 14 seconds left I’m here for, that’s what I do,” said Hard- his fi rst goal of the series. in regulation. en, who fi nished with 41 points, nine re- Hertl potted his second of the Columbus had other chances bounds and six assists. night, and the eventual game- to tie it, but failed, as Matt Duch- “He’s phenomenal,” Rockets coach winner, at 6:26 of the third pe- ene rang a shot off the post late in Mike D’Antoni said of Harden. “I don’t riod. While his team was buzzing the third as well. The Bruins now even think he played great — in Harden- around the off ensive zone with a have a 3-2 lead in the best-of- world. He could even go up to another litany of chances, Marc-Edouard seven Eastern Conference series level.” Vlasic fi red a point shot that with game six set for today in The Rockets, coming off back-to-back was stopped, but Hertl was on Columbus, Ohio. The winner of defeats on Golden State’s home fl oor in the spot for the loose puck and this series will face the Carolina Oakland, California, narrowed the gap in slipped home the rebound goal Hurricanes for the conference the best-of-seven Western Conference for his eighth tally of the playoff s. title. second-round series to 2-1. The Rock- For the Avalanche, the loss Seth Jones, Ryan Dzingel and ets withstood a 46-point performance was a wasted opportunity. Just Dean Kukan scored for Columbus from Durant, who threatened to spoil the as it appeared the game would and Bobrovsky stopped 32 of 36 Rockets’ return home when he opened be scoreless through 40 minutes, shots. Jones scored a controver- the fourth quarter on a 10-2 scoring spree Tyson Jost opened the scoring sial goal at 10:33 but ultimately a that saw the Warriors turn a seven-point with 2:59 remaining in the sec- video review determined it was a defi cit into a 94-93 lead. ond period. After the Avalanche good goal. Jones’ shot from the In a see-saw fi nal period, two free wasted two consecutive power right corner went off defence- throws from Harden knotted the score plays — and after Jost was abso- man Matt Grzelcyk’s stick and at 112-112 with 38.7 seconds left. Durant lutely robbed on a golden chance lodged between Rask’s pads and missed a jump shot and then Houston — the visitors received a lucky the left post. point guard Chris Paul got wrapped up by bounce when Jones made the The play was initially ruled Klay Thompson and Durant as he drove save on JT Compher’s long shot, no goal, but a review reversed for a basket and it went to overtime. “It’s but the puck bounced off Jost’s the call on the ice. The Bruins going to be a fi ght, every possession, eve- leg into the cage for his fi rst NHL regained their two-goal edge at ry game,” Harden said. “You’ve got to be playoff goal. 11:16 as Pastrnak put a slap shot physically tough, mentally tough.” Colorado goalie Philipp Gru- inside the left post on a four-on- Forward Eric Gordon scored 30 points bauer certainly gave his team one break. — 20 in the fi rst half — and Clint Capela every chance to win with a 37- Dzingel beat Rask from a sharp added 13 points and 11 rebounds for the save performance. The Sharks angle at 12:07 and Kukan tied the Rockets. In addition to Durant’s big night, are also close to having a key score at 13:58, beating Rask with Draymond Green posted his sixth career player back in the lineup. Joe a slap shot from the top of the fa- playoff triple-double with 19 points, 11 Pavelski, who was injured in ceoff circles. rebounds and 10 assists for the Warriors. Kevin Durant (left) of Golden State Warriors drives to the basket as James Harden of Houston Rockets looks to defend during Andre Iguodala scored 16 points, con- Game Three of the second round of the NBA Western Conference Playoff s in Houston, Texas. (AFP) necting on three of four three-pointers to help the Warriors challenge despite a his team trailing in the extra session. “He defensively for game three, Kerr noted sive team right from the beginning,” Kerr poor shooting night for Stephen Curry just had a tough night,” Warriors coach Houston’s response. “Let’s be honest, it said. “We made that run in the fourth and Thompson, who combined to make Steve Kerr said of Curry. “It doesn’t mat- would have been a steal if we won that quarter based on Kevin’s brilliance, and just four of 15 from three-point range. ter how good you are, you’re going to have game. They out-played us,” said Kerr, I felt like we started competing better at Curry, who fi nished with 17 points, some bad games — just a tough night for noting that after a dismal rebounding ef- that point.” scored zero in the fourth quarter and him. It just didn’t happen.” fort in game two the Rockets had 20 more Overall, however, Kerr couldn’t be- overtime with four fouls. After D’Antoni had urged his players to rebounds than the Warriors. grudge the Rockets the victory. “I thought He missed both a layup and a dunk with “get down in the mud” and toughen up “They were the more physical, aggres- they deserved to win,” he said.

Raptors forward Pascal Siakam doubtful for Game Four Toronto: As if things haven’t gone sore and I think, kind of like calmed “Next guy up,” Lowry said. “We got to to spark us a little bit,” Nurse said. Nurse bad enough the past two games for down a little bit and then I felt really step up. I got to step up way more than I then went through other potential the Toronto Raptors, on Saturday they sore.” have been that will be the challenge for candidates. announced that power forward Pascal Siakam was asked if he hurt himself us, everyone steps up even more.” “We could go with Norm, Serge Siakam is doubtful for Game 4 with the when he tripped Joel Embiid and earned Raptors coach Nick Nurse had the possibly, and again none of it is ideal 76ers due to a right calf contusion. a Flagrant 1 foul with 10 minutes and 5 same attitude. “We’ve got to plug in matchup-wise, those would be the guys The Sixers lead the Eastern Confer- seconds left. “Not sure,” he said .“Once what we got and probably introduce who have been playing,” Nurse said, ence semifinal series 2 games to 1, again I think there was a lot on the block, somebody in the series who hasn’t referring to 6-4 swingman Norman after winning the last two. The 6-foot-9 I fell really bad the play after, there was a played yet.” Powell.“We have started (6-7) Patrick Siakam has been the Raptors second- lot of contact, I was on the floor a lot so I With Toronto forward OG Anunoby McCaw in these scenarios, at least once, leading scorer in the first three games, don’t know exactly.” out while recovering from an appendec- and that could be an option to keep the averaging 23.3 points. Siakam left the game for good with tomy, the Raptors don’t have a lot of size rotations similar, we will see.” He suff ered the injury sometime dur- 9:37 remaining and the Raptors trailing, on the bench. There is 6-10 Serge Ibaka, At Sixers practice, coach Brett Brown ing Thursday’s 116-95 loss to the Sixers 98-82. He was asked if he thought he but he has been backing up starting was candid when asked if it matters in Game 3. Siakam says he isn’t sure how could play. “I haven’t really done much center Marc Gasol. from his perspective if Siakam doesn’t the injury occurred. until now, so I probably will see what I Toronto could go with a smaller play. “Yes for sure,” Brown said. “Without “There was a lot of contact during can do today,” said Siakam, who said it lineup, according to Nurse, and insert getting into granular stuff , I don’t place the game, I don’t know exactly when it was still feeling sore on Saturday. 6-0 guard Fred VanVleet as a starter. much weight in that. I don’t get caught happened,” he said before the Raptors Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry said “We have done that a lot with Fred up into it actually could happen at all. I practice on Saturday at the Wells Fargo the team has no choice but to have a and really enjoyed great pace and ball think about if it did happen, what does Tomas Hertl (left) and goalkeeper Martin Jones celebrate after San Center. “After the game I was just really positive attitude if Siakam can’t play. movement and that may be something that really mean.” Jose Sharks beat Colorado Avalanche in the Game Five of the Western Conference second round in San Jose, California. (AFP)

SPOTLIGHT Trading Voracek for Subban makes sense for Philadelphia Flyers By Sam Carchidi stantly become a leader in the Flyers’ hired him as a 22-year-old administra- Subban, who will turn 30 on May 13, The Preds might also seek a defense- work.) As for Subban, new Flyers coach The Philadelphia Inquirer and Daily News laid-back locker room? Check. tive assistant with the expansion At- has three years left on a contract that man in the deal, and Robert Hagg is Alain Vigneault is a big admirer. But to Subban would give the Flyers a le- lanta Flames. has an annual $9 mn cap hit, which available. If the Flyers deal Voracek — put his comments in the right context, gitimate No. 1 defenseman for the fi rst Five years later, he made Poile an might scare away lots of teams. Vora- who has been the league’s fourth-high- he was talking just about what Sub- here are reports that Nashville’s time since Chris Pronger was healthy. assistant general manager. Chuck cek, who will turn 30 on Aug. 15, has est-scoring right winger (505 points) ban brings to a team — and Voracek as PK Subban is available. If so, he Just because Subban fi ts all the box- Fletcher and Poile made a deal at the fi ve years remaining on his pact, which since he joined Philadelphia in 2011-12 a potential trading chip was not part checks all the boxes surround- es, however, doesn’t mean it will be trade deadline this year, as the Flyers has an annual $8.25mn cap hit. — they could try to sign a free-agent of the conversation. “He’s a dynamic ing one of the Flyers’ important easy for Flyers general manager Chuck sent Wayne Simmonds to the Predators The teams seem like a good match. winger to fi ll his void. player,” Vigneault said of Subban on Tneeds. Someone who is right-handed, Fletcher to bring him to Philadelphia. for right winger Ryan Hartman and a The Flyers have the cap space and need Artemi Panarin (probably going to Wednesday. “He’s got a great skill set plays with an edge, and would comple- If Subban is shopped, and Nashville is fourth-round draft pick. to upgrade a defense that allowed the Florida and perhaps too costly), Jeff and a lot of energy. He’s shown he’s one ment Ivan Provorov on the Flyers’ top expected to deal one of its defensemen In addition, Nashville happens to be third-most goals (3.41 per game) in the Skinner, Anders Lee, Gustav Nyquist, of the best defensemen in the NHL, and defensive pairing? Check. for a much-needed scorer, there will be coached by Peter Laviolette, who has NHL this season. The Predators need to and Jordan Eberle are among the op- he competes so hard.” Subban is com- Someone who is a proven veteran — other interested teams. fi rsthand knowledge of some of the improve an off ense that scored just 2.88 tions for the Flyers, who also need to ing off a career-worst 31-point season, a former winner of the Norris Trophy, That said, Fletcher does have a close players he had with the Flyers. One of goals per game (19th in the league) and add a productive second-line center one in which he played just 63 games awarded to the league’s top defenseman relationship with Nashville GM David those is right winger Jake Voracek, who a power play that was dead last, click- and might pursue Toronto’s feisty because of a suspected back injury. He — who would anchor the Flyers’ young Poile. They have known each other for had some productive years under La- ing at just 12.9 % during the season and Nazem Kadri. (Some of the above said the injury won’t aff ect his long- group of blue-liners? Check. 47 years, and Poile got his big break violette with the Flyers and would fi t going 0 for 15 in their fi rst-round play- wingers play the left side, but the Fly- term play. If he is indeed 100% healthy, An outspoken guy who would in- in 1972, when Fletcher’s father, Cliff , nicely in Nashville. off loss to Dallas. ers could juggle some players to make it the Flyers should try to strike a deal Gulf Times 6 Monday, May 6, 2019 SPORT

MLB Braun’s two-run homer lift s Brewers over Mets in 18th It was the Mets’ longest game since a 3-1, 18-inning win over the St. Louis Cardinals on July 19, 2015

Reuters Morgan, and Victor Robles followed New York with a solo shot off the lefty, as injury- plagued Washington battled back to beat Philadelphia in a wild contest. yan Braun’s two-run single The Nationals made three errors but with one out in the bottom of won for just the fi fth time in 15 games. the 18th inning on Saturday Washington lost fi rst baseman Matt night fi nally capped a mara- Adams (jammed left shoulder) and thonR game and lifted the host Milwau- center fi elder Michael A. Taylor (hand) kee Brewers to a 4-3 win over the New to injuries. Morgan (1-1) entered the York Mets. The Brewers have won the game having allowed no runs and just fi rst two games of the three-game se- fi ve hits in 16 outings this season. ries from the Mets, who took the lead in Jean Segura had three hits, and JT the top of the 18th on Jeff McNeil’s RBI Realmuto drove in three runs for the single before falling below.500 (16-17) Phillies, who had scored fi ve in the sev- for the fi rst time this season. enth to lead 8-5 before the bullpen im- Braun’s career-high sixth hit ended ploded. the longest game for the Brewers since a 10-9, 19-inning win over the Chi- BRAVES 9, MARLINS 2 cago White Sox on May 1, 1991. It was Ozzie Albies hit a go-ahead grand slam the Mets’ longest game since a 3-1, in the sixth inning, leading Atlanta to 18-inning win over the St. Louis Car- victory over host Miami. Albies went dinals on July 19, 2015. Braun was the 2-for-6 with fi ve RBIs, but he wasn’t only Milwaukee player with multiple Atlanta’s only star. Catcher Brian Mc- hits Saturday. His six-hit game was Cann went 2-for-4 with three RBIs, the fi rst in the majors since teammate and left fi elder Ronald Acuna Jr. tied Christian Yelich went 6-for-6 against his career high with four hits, going the Cincinnati Reds last Aug. 29. Mc- 4-for-4 and raising his batting average Neil had three hits, while Alonso and from.270 to.294. Hechavarria had two apiece. Mike Soroka (3-1) earned the win, allowing three hits — all singles — two RED SOX 15, WHITE SOX 2 walks and two runs, none earned. Mar- Xander Bogaerts and Eduardo Nun- lins reliever Nick Anderson (0-1) took ez hit two-run homers, and rookie the loss in relief, allowing fi ve runs — Michael Chavis added a solo shot to including Albies’ slam — in 1 2/3 in- highlight a nine-run third inning that nings. His ERA rose from 2.08 to 4.91. saw visiting Boston string together 10 consecutive two-out hits en route to ASTROS 14, ANGELS 2 a blowout over Chicago. Chavis also Houston scored in each of the fi rst six homered in the fi fth, his third in two innings and cruised over Los Angeles games, and fi nished 4-for-6 with three in Monterrey, Mexico, its sixth straight RBIs, while Christian Vazquez also win against L.A., including the fi nal fi ve went 4-for-5 with a run scored. Every Milwaukee Brewers’ Ryan Braun (left) and Lorenzo Cain (centre) and Ben Gamel celebrate after beating the New York Mets in Milwaukee. (USA TODAY Sports) contests between the two teams last Boston starter except Vazquez had at season. least one RBI, as the Red Sox fi nished Bay. Bundy (1-4) gave the Orioles his TWINS 7, YANKEES 3 Twins won in New York for the fi rst RBI single for the Indians, who have Of the Astros’ 14 hits, 10 went for ex- with a season-high 20 hits. best start of the season. He gave up just Jake Odorizzi pitched six solid innings, time since June 26, 2016. won fi ve straight against the Mariners tra bases, including two home runs by Eduardo Rodriguez (3-2) allowed one three hits and had four strikeouts and and Minnesota hit three homers to halt Including the playoff s, the Twins are this season. Former Cleveland slugger Alex Bregman and one homer each by run on six hits over six innings, striking one walk while becoming the fi rst Bal- an eight-game regular-season road 15-51 in the Bronx since 2002. New York Edwin Encarnacion homered to lead Michael Brantley, George Springer and out six. Chicago starter Manny Banue- timore starter to make it into the eighth losing streak to New York. left-hander JA Happ (1-3) allowed four off the second inning, Daniel Vogelbach Yuli Gurriel. los (2-1) retired the fi rst eight batters inning this season. Odorizzi (4-2) struck out eight and runs on seven hits in 5 2/3 innings. followed suit in the fourth and Tim Brantley also had a double and four he faced before the Red Sox broke loose Due to worries about the weather, worked around four walks to win his Beckham did the same in the eighth. RBIs, Gurriel had a triple and two RBIs, in the third with 11 consecutive batters the Rays made the unusual move of fourth straight start. INDIANS 5, MARINERS 4 Dylan Moore also went deep for slump- and Bregman had three hits and four reaching base, the fi rst 10 on hits. changing starting pitchers just over an He allowed a leadoff single to DJ Carlos Santana belted a go-ahead two- ing Seattle, which has lost six in a row RBIs. For the fi rst time this season, An- hour before the game. They were going LeMahieu in the third, a single by run homer with two outs in the eighth and 15 of its last 20. gels outfi elder Mike Trout did not reach ORIOLES 3, RAYS 0 to go with Ryne Stanek as their opener, Miguel Andujar in the sixth and worked inning as Cleveland beat visiting Seat- base via a hit or walk, going 0-for-4 Dwight Smith Jr. homered, and Dy- but instead shifted to Yonny Chirinos out of a jam in the fourth. Mitch Garver tle. Francisco Lindor homered to lead NATIONALS 10, PHILLIES 8 with one strikeout. He had reached lan Bundy threw 7 1/3 shutout innings (4-1), who went 7 1/3 innings and al- hit a two-run homer while CJ Cron and off the third inning, and Jake Bauers Kurt Suzuki hit a pinch-hit, three-run base in his fi rst 29 games of the season, as Baltimore defeated visiting Tampa lowed three runs on seven hits. Nelson Cruz added solo homers, as the and Roberto Perez each had a two-out homer in the eighth inning off Adam setting a new club record.

ATHLETICS SPOTLIGHT WMA warns doctors Semenya is a victim of rules that are confusing, unfair

By Kenan Malik athletes has caused controversy, that over not to enforce The Guardian transgender athletes is generating an even fi ercer storm. Prominent female athletes, from Paula Radcliff e to Martina Navrati- Semenya rules hould women with naturally ele- lova, have raised fears about transgender vated levels of testosterone be able athletes similar to those about hyperan- AFP sary, reasonable and propor- to compete in women’s events? drogenic ones. Sydney tionate means of achieving the That’s the question with which While the two debates are linked, the IAAF’s aim of preserving the in- athleticsS has been grappling over the past contexts are diff erent. Semenya was born tegrity of female athletics in the decade. Last week, the Court of Arbitra- and has lived as a woman but happens he World Medical Asso- Restricted Events”. tion for Sport (CAS), international sport’s to have naturally high testosterone lev- ciation yesterday urged Montgomery said that for highest court, ruled that such athletes els. Female transgender athletes, such as doctors not to enforce women with DSD “it is just nor- could be banned unless they took medi- the cyclist Rachel McKinnon, were born controversial new IAAF mal to be androgenic and there cation to reduce their testosterone levels. and lived as males but have transitioned Tgender rules for classifying fe- is nothing pathological about The CAS case had been brought by to being female. Many trans activists ar- male athletes, warning that at- the situation of this athlete”. Caster Semenya, the South African Ol- gue that anyone who identifi es as female tempts to do so would breach “No physician can be forced to ympic champion, who, after winning her should be allowed to compete in women’s ethical codes. administer these drugs, and we stunning 30th consecutive 800m vic- sport. Critics argue that, given the ad- It follows South African run- defi nitely urge our colleagues to tory in Doha on Friday, insisted that she vantages conferred by a male physique, it ner Caster Semenya last week refrain from giving hormonally would carry on racing in middle distance would be unfair to allow anyone who has losing her court challenge against active medication to athletes events, but would not take testosterone- been through male puberty to compete as the International Association of simply because some regulations reducing medication. From the moment a woman, even if they have transitioned Athletic Federations over plans demand it,” he added. she burst on to the international stage a from male to female by taking hormone to force some women to regulate “If physicians do apply these decade ago, questions were raised about treatment. their testosterone levels. drugs they do break ethical her sex. Semenya is hyperandrogenic – Neither claim seems reasonable. From The decision by the Court of codes. The basic ethical code of she has a much higher level of testoster- the perspective of fairness and justice, Arbitration for Sport means that all medical practice is never do one than most women. it would be wrong simply to allow self- female athletes with elevated harm, and it is doing harm to a The IAAF, the governing body of in- identifi ed women who have the physical testosterone will have to take perfectly normal body with just ternational athletics, defi nes athletes like attributes of men to compete in women’s suppressive treatment if they a rather high level of testoster- her as having “a diff erence of sexual de- events. It would be equally wrong to have wish to compete as women in one by administering drugs to velopment (DSD)”. And last year, it intro- a blanket ban on transgender women certain events. The IAAF argued use this in order to make them duced regulations forcing such athletes competing in female sports. There is little that athletes like the two-time eligible for women’s sport under to reduce their testosterone levels if they evidence either of trans athletes domi- Olympic champion had an unfair these regulations.” wished to compete in certain events. Se- nating sport (there has not been a single advantage over others. The DSD rules — fi rst adopted menya challenged this in court. trans Olympian) or of athletes who have But World Medical Asso- last year but suspended pending CAS described the rules as “discrimi- transitioned from male to female con- ciation chairman Frank Ulrich the legal battle — are due to come natory”. But, it added, such discrimina- tinuing to have an advantage over those Montgomery advised doctors into eff ect on May 8. Semenya is tion is “necessary, reasonable and pro- born female. to play no part in enforcing mulling an appeal. Montgomery portionate”. If that sounds confused, it is. The latest International Olympic the rules during an interview said the argument that Semenya Most people accept the case for sepa- Committee regulations allow transgen- with the Australian Broadcast- had an unfair advantage over rate male and female categories in sport- der women to participate so long as they ing Corp. “We do think it is ex- others didn’t make sense, using ing events in which physical prowess have taken hormone therapy to reduce tremely serious if international the height of some basketball matters. Defi ning who belongs to the two their testosterone level to below a set fi g- sports regulations demand phy- players to make his point. categories has, however, created much South Africa’s Caster Semenya en route to her 30th consecutive 800m victory at the ure for at least a year. sicians to prescribe medication “The next issue would be that debate. Diff erent methods have been Diamond League in Doha on Friday. (AFP) These rules have been criticised from — hormonally active medication we demand basketball players adopted, from crude physical inspections both sides. For some, they place too great — for athletes in order to reduce who are taller than 2.25 metres to genetic tests. All have proved unsatis- have elevated levels that take them into Hyperandrogenic women have an advan- a burden on transgender athletes; for oth- normal conditions in their body,” should reduce their height sur- factory. the “male” category. tage over athletes whose testosterone is in ers, they make it too easy for athletes not he said. gically to something else be- The latest dividing line is function- The IAAF suggests that excluding the “normal” range. born as women to compete in women’s In a 2-1 decision, CAS judges cause, of course, they do have al testosterone. Testosterone levels in such women, or forcing them to reduce But why is that unfair? Elite sport, by events. There is a debate to be had over dismissed Semenya’s appeal an advantage over other basket- women are, in most circumstances, lower testosterone levels, helps create a level defi nition, is an uneven playing fi eld. these issues. What seems indisputable, against the measures targeting ball players that are somewhat than in men. So the IAAF decided to limit playing fi eld and protects the integrity of From Dina Asher-Smith to Lionel Messi, though, is that some such regulations are “hyperandrogenic” athletes — or smaller,” he said. “So where is the testosterone level that makes women women’s sports. That’s why Cas accepted the best athletes are not like the rest of us. required. Whereas the IAAF’s hyperan- those with “diff erences of sexual the limit to this? And therefore eligible for certain events. The trouble IAAF regulations as necessary, reason- That diff erence is partly due to genetic drogenic rules are irrational and discrim- development” (DSD). we say medicine shouldn’t inter- is, while all male elite athletes lie in the able and proportionate, even if dis- traits. Why should Semenya not be able to inatory, regulations allowing transgender They said that although the fere with non-pathological situ- high testosterone band and most female criminatory. Testosterone certainly aids take advantage of her genetic attributes, athletes to compete under certain condi- rules were “discriminatory... ations simply to enhance sports athletes fall into the lower testosterone athletic performance, increasing muscle as every other athlete does? tions do seem “necessary, reasonable and such discrimination is a neces- activities.” class, a few women, such as Semenya, bulk and the number of red blood cells. If the debate about hyperandrogenic proportionate”. Gulf Times Monday, May 6, 2019 7 GOLF

FOCUS WELLS FARGO CHAMPIONSHIP US trio shares lead as McIlroy trails Korhonen beats leaders by two AFP LEADING SCORES Washington 202-Max Homa 69-63-70, Jason Dufner 68-63-71, Joel mericans Jason Dufner, Dahmen 66-66-70 Hebert in playoff Joel Dahmen and Max 203-Pat Perez 69-68-66 Homa shared the lead 204-Rory McIlroy (NIR) 66- after Saturday’s third 70-68 roundA of the US PGA Wells Fargo 205-Justin Rose (ENG) 70- Championship with Rory McIl- 67-68 roy lurking two shots adrift. 206-Paul Casey (ENG) 69- Homa and Dahmen each fi red 71-66, Seamus Power (IRL) one-under par 70 while Duf- 69-68-69 to win China Open ner shot 71 to share the lead 207-Sergio Garcia (ESP) 69-73- at 11-under 202 after 54 holes 65, Rickie Fowler 71-70-66, Doc ‘Yeah, there were a few butterflies with that one. It wasn’t the easiest of putts’ at Quail Hollow in Charlotte, Redman 70-70-67, Vaughn North Carolina. Taylor 68-71-68, Patrick Reed AFP American Pat Perez fi red a 66 67-69-71 Shenzhen, China Finland’s Mikko Korhonen kisses the to grab fourth on 203 with four- 208-Keith Mitchell 68-74-66, trophy aft er winning the China Open time major winner McIlroy in Colt Knost 73-68-67, Adam in Shenzhen yesterday. (AFP) fi fth on 204 after a 68 on a course Schenk 67-74-67, Aaron Wise ikko Korhonen where he has won twice and set a 69-70-69, Jhonattan Vegas pipped France’s course record of 62 then broke it (VEN) 72-67-69 Benjamin Hebert with a 61. 209-Rory Sabbatini (SVK) 76- in a nerve-jangling “I’ve played some great golf 66-67, Kyle Stanley 69-69-71, Mplayoff to win the 25th Volvo on this back nine and hopefully I Martin Laird (SCO) 67-71-71 China Open yesterday and se- can do it again,” McIlroy said. 210-Adam Hadwin (CAN) 73- cure his place in this month’s McIlroy played on his 30th 69-68, Nate Lashley 71-70-69, US PGA Championship. birthday, receiving a cake in the John Senden (AUS) 68-73-69, The Finn shot a superb six- clubhouse and a “Happy Birth- Jim Knous 68-72-70, Kevin under par 66 to fi nish at 20-un- day” song from spectators at the Streelman 71-69-70, Im Sung- der par for the tournament fi rst tee, the fi rst of many that jae (KOR) 70-69-71. alongside overnight leader would serenade him throughout Hebert, who had a three-un- the round. der 69 at Genzon Golf Club in McIlroy won his fi rst US PGA three shots to reach the green Shenzhen. Korhonen looked title at Quail Hollow in 2010, then missing par putts from six icy cool when he sank a treach- recalling it came days before his feet at 11 and nine feet on 18. erous left-to-right downhill 21st birthday so in America he “I’ve always been comfortable 10-footer for a birdie in the was underage and not served when I’ve been playing well. I’ve playoff , though he admitted his alcohol, celebrating with apple just had struggling confi dence knees were trembling. juice instead of something bub- getting into tournaments. “Yeah, there were a few but- blier. “But I’m having fun out there terfl ies with that one,” Ko- “At least I can have cham- right now. You can’t win it today. rhonen told AFP after being pagne in my fl ute,” McIlroy said I just have to focus on playing drenched in celebratory cham- of his 30th birthday plans. good, solid golf.” pagne by his fellow Finnish England’s Justin Rose was Dufner, the 2013 PGA Cham- players on the fi nal green. “It sixth on 205 after a 68 while pionship winner who has wasn’t the easiest of putts.” Englishman Paul Casey fi red a slumped to 230th in the world He promised it would be a 66 to stand on 206 with Ireland’s rankings, matched his career low “good fl ight” back to Europe on Seamus Power, who shot 69. with a 63 on Friday to lead but Sunday night after ensuring a Two afternoon rain delays struggled Saturday. place in a major fi eld for just the halted play for a total of two Dufner stumbled back with second time in his career. hours and 17 minutes, pushing bogeys on 11 and 12 after miss- “We’ll have some celebra- players to the limit to complete ing each fairway but answered tions I’m sure,” he added. 275-Victor Dubuisson (FRA) their rounds before darkness. with birdies at the 14th and par- It was just his second win in S Korea’s Lee Tae-hee wins Maekyung Open 68-68-68-71, Yuta Ikeda (JPN) Homa sank a 14-foot birdie 5 15th, blasting from greenside a European Tour event after his 68-71-68-68, Jacques Kruyswijk at the par-4 second and a fi ve- rough and a bunker within two Shot Clock Masters victory in South Korea’s Lee Tae-hee triumphed on home “I was only focused on my play throughout the 18 (RSA) 70-67-70-68 footer at the par-4 eighth, then feet of the cup on each to hang Austria last year. soil at the Asian Tour’s GS Caltex Maekyung Open holes and did not lose my concentration,” said the 276-Minwoo Lee (AUS) 69- began the back nine with an- onto a share of the lead. The triumph takes him into yesterday after beating Finland’s Janne Kaske on 34-year-old. “The victory is especially meaningful 67-70-70, Bernd Wiesberger other birdie putt from seven feet. McIlroy birdied the par-5 sev- the world’s top 100 and the top the third extra hole in a nail-biting playoff . because this is where I trained,” added Lee, who (AUT) 69-71-68-68, Adilson Da But Homa missed his chance enth, 10th and 15th holes, catch- 20 on the Race To Dubai stand- Lee and Kaske - who shared the overnight four- took lessons at the club from 2003 to 2010. Silva (BRA) 72-69-65-70, Tapio for the lead alone with bogeys ing fi re late after an unspectacu- ings and means that he will head shot lead - closed with matching even-par 71s to South Korea’s Kim Dae-hyun returned with the Pulkkanen (FIN) 65-68-72-71, at 11 and 18, each time needing lar eight pars on the front nine. to Bethpage, New York, for the tie on nine-under 275 after the end of regulation day’s best score of a 65 to take third place on 276 Richie Ramsay (SCO) 69-71-70- season’s second major in two play at the Namseoul Country Club in Seongnam. while Park Sang-hyun - the highest-ranked player 66 weeks’ time. But the South Korean emerged as the ultimate in the field and last year’s winner - settled three 277-Sam Brazel (AUS) 68-71-72- winner with a birdie from six feet in the third play- shots back in fourth. 66, Marcel Siem (GER) 71-67- ‘AMAZING FEELING’ off after made a bad break on the 18th fairway The $1,067,000 event has been dominated by 69-70, Gavin Green (MAS) 67- “It’s an amazing feeling,” he and his second shot finished 20 yards short of the South Koreans since 2005, with American Mark 72-68-70, Miguel Tabuena (PHI) said. “It was my fi rst time in a green. It was Lee’s first Maekyung Open title and Calcavecchia being the last foreigner to win the 67-75-65-70, Alexander Bjork play-off and I had nothing to his third professional victory on home soil. tournament in 2004. (SWE) 70-70-69-68, Panuphol lose. It was a battle all day as Pittayarat (THA) 70-71-68-68, everyone was making putts and Jazz Janewattananond (THA) I had to stay patient and do the but never on the main European Race to Dubai standings after an juniors making Chinese people 70-71-66-70, John Catlin (USA) same.” Tour. amazing run of fi ve top-three proud.” 66-76-68-67, Julian Suri (USA) He had started Sunday three “I’m happy fi nishing second. fi nishes in his last six events. 69-72-68-68, Berry Henson shots behind Hebert along with I missed the wedding of one of “Mikko played unbeliev- LEADING SCORES AFTER (USA) 70-70-71-66 Spain’s Jorge Campillo, and the my cousins this week so it was able golf today and it was just a FINAL ROUND 278-Liang Enqi (CHN) 70-72-66- fi nal three-ball produced a dra- very important for me to have a shame I couldn’t join the play- 268-Mikko Korhonen* (FIN) 70, Adri Arnaus (ESP) 75-65- ma fi lled fi nal-round as the lead good week.” off .” 68-69-65-66, Benjamin Hebert 71-67, Erik Van Rooyen (RSA) changed hands between the trio Campillo started the round in Home favourite Li Haotong (FRA) 67-68-64-69 68-68-70-72 multiple times. brilliant fashion and three con- had a birdie-birdie fi nish in *Korhonen won at first playoff 279-Jason Scrivener (AUS) 70- Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland plays his shot from the ninth tee Hebert was hunting his secutive birdies from the 10th his 66 to secure solo fourth at hole 66-73-70, Yuan Yechun (CHN) during the third round of the 2019 Wells Fargo Championship at fi rst European Tour win while took him into the lead. 16-under par. 269-Jorge Campillo (ESP) 65- 68-71-72-68, Joachim Hansen Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Getty Images/AFP) Campillo, who triumphed for But dropped shots at both the “The game’s heading in the 69-68-67 (DEN) 69-73-69-68, Ignacio his maiden victory in Morocco 14th and 15th and just missed right direction here in China,” Li 272-Li Haotong (CHN) 67-73- Elvira (ESP) 68-69-68-74, Guido a week ago, was looking to be- the 20-foot birdie putt on the told AFP after a record-break- 66-66 Migliozzi (ITA) 73-68-71-67, MEDIHEAL CHAMPIONSHIP come the fi rst European Tour fi nal green to make it a three- ing week that drew huge crowds 273-Wu Ashun (CHN) 66-65-72- Haydn Porteous (RSA) 69-73- back-to-back winner since way playoff as he nishedfi to see 45 Chinese players in the 70, Romain Langasque (FRA) 67-70, Paul Peterson (USA) 69- Justin Rose in 2017 at the WGC- 19-under par. fi eld and an unprecedented 10, 67-69-70-67, Michael Lorenzo- 72-67-71, Sam Horsfield (ENG) HSBC Champions and Turkish “It was disappointing. I fi n- including three amateurs, make Vera (FRA) 67-71-71-64, David 70-69-69-71 South Korea’s Kim Airlines Open. ished as a champion last week, the cut. Lipsky (USA) 65-72-70-66, Jor- 280-Jin Cheng (CHN) 69-69- “It has been a good week,” but I didn’t this week,” la- “It’s great to see Kuang Yang, dan Smith (ENG) 67-70-69-67 69-73, Matthieu Pavon (FRA) said Hebert, who has won six mented the in-form Spaniard, who’s only 14, making the cut 274-Sean Crocker (USA) 68-68- 68-69-75-68, Jack Singh-Brar seizes 3-shot lead times on the Challenge Tour who will move to second in the and it’s amazing to see these 72-66 (ENG) 68-73-70-69. AFP Korea’s Ryu fi nished with four San Francisco bogeys and a triple bogey. FOCUS Kim most recently won in July at the 2018 Thornberry Creek outh Korea’s Kim Sei- LPGA Classic, where she set the young pulled away from LPGA’s 72-hole scoring record the fi eld with a four- at 31-under 257 and won by nine under 68 to take a three- strokes. Hull carded three bird- Skinner wins QGL tournament ies and one bogey in her round of strokeS lead after the third round By Sports Reporter of the US LPGA Tour’s Mediheal 70 and sits at seven under. Doha Championship on Saturday. The 23-year-old is currently The 26-year-old Kim was at ranked No. 26 and has one vic- a 10-under 206 to lead English- tory under her belt - the 2016 ob Skinner emerged woman Charley Hull heading CME Group Tour Championship victorious in the golf into Sunday’s fi nal round at the - but hasn’t posted a top-10 fi n- tournament organised Lake Merced course in Daly City, ish since October. by Qatar Golf Lovers California. Kim made bogey on (QGL)R at the Doha Golf Course her opening hole but bounced LEADING SCORES over the weekend. back with an eagle at the fi fth 206-Kim Sei-young (KOR) 72- Thirty-six golfers participated and birdies at 11, 15 and 18. She 66-68 in the tournament which was is ranked 15th in the world and 209-Charley Hull (ENG) 69-70-70 played on a Strokeplay format. C looking for her eighth LPGA Tour 211-Maria Torres (PUR) 69-71-71 K Krishnan was declared the run- title. The fi ve-year tour vet- 212-Minjee Lee (AUS) 76-69-67, ner-up. Steve LiBianco won the eran put some distance between Lexi Thompson 73-70-69, Amy ‘longest drive’ award while P K herself and the rest of the pack. Yang (KOR) 68-74-70, Louise Mathew won the ‘closest to pin’, There were 20 players within Ridderstrom (SWE) 71-69-72, Ji Vineet Shekhar won the ‘closest fi ve shots of leader Ryu So-yeon Eun-hee (KOR) 67-72-73 to rope’ and P K Viswanath won heading into Saturday’s round 214-Kristen Gillman 71-74-69, the ‘longest putt’ awards. and by the end of the day there Lee6 Jeong-eun (KOR) 74-69-71, Meanwhile, QGL bid fare- were just two within fi ve strokes Liu Yu (CHN) 76-66-62, Azahara well to Courtney Berry who is of Kim - Hull and Maria Torres. Munoz (ESP) 69-73-72, Choi Na- leaving Qatar shortly. Berry has Two-time major winner Ryu yeon (KOR) 72-67-75 been an active member of QGL shot a disappointing seven-over 215-Lizette Salas 74-71-70, Dan- for over three years. On behalf 79 and was tied for 20th while ielle Kang 73-71-71, Kim In-kyung of all members, QGL Captain playing parter Ryan O’Toole, (KOR) 72-71-72, Angela Stanford presented her a memento and who was one stroke off the lead 71-72-72, Feng Shanshan (CHN) wished her happy golfi ng at her on Friday, ballooned to a 77 to 73-67-75, Ryann O’Toole 73-65- next tour of duty. The winners of the Qatar Golf Lovers (QGL) tournament pose with off icials. drop into a tie for 14th. South 77.

Monday, May 6, 2019 GULF TIMES CRICKET

ODI TWENTY20 Morgan powers England to 7-wicket Campbell, Hope set win over Pakistan

AFP medium-pacer Faheem Ashraf. Cardiff , United Kingdom And even when Sarfraz caught Root, there was little danger to England’s hopes of ngland captain Eoin victory with Morgan hitting fi ve opening record in Morgan led his side to fours and three sixes in his 29- a seven-wicket win ball stay. over Pakistan in a lone There was a bizarre incident Twenty20E international in Car- at the start of Pakistan’s third diff yesterday with an unbeaten over when the ground made innings of 57. way beneath David Willey as the Test skipper Joe Root made England seamer was just about 47 and James Vince 36 as Eng- to make his delivery stride. West Indies victory land overhauled Pakistan’s total Fortunately for England, of 173 for six with four balls to Willey avoided serious injury. ‘I’m just looking at this as another opportunity for me to put big scores on the board’ spare at Sophia Gardens. Babar Azam (65) and Haris This was England’s second Sohail (50) shared a stand of 103 victory in three days after their after Pakistan had been 31 for one-day international success two following Sarfraz’s decision away to Morgan’s native Ire- to bat fi rst on a green-tinged land in Dublin on Friday as they pitch. continued an encouraging start Haris hit Chris Jordan for six to a season that sees them stag- before Babar struck successive ing both the 50-over World Cup sixes off spinner Joe Denly to and the Ashes. complete a 31-ball fi fty. England fast bowler Jofra Pakistan then saw both their Archer also continued his push well-set batsmen fall in quick for a World Cup call-up by tak- succession with Barbados-born ing two for 29 in Pakistan’s in- Archer, renowned for his form nings. in T20 franchise cricket, re- The recalled Ben Duckett fell moving Haris before he ran out early in England’s chase, driving Babar. Shaheen Afridi to mid-off , but England and Pakistan will Vince and Root kept England now play a fi ve-match ODI up with the run-rate thanks to a series starting at The Oval on series of sparkling shots. Wednesday. Vince was caught down the legside by Pakistan captain and BRIEF SCORES wicket-keeper Sarfraz Ahmed England 175 for 3 (Morgan 57*, off Imad Wasim but Morgan Root 47) beat Pakistan 173 for kept the runs coming, taking 14 6 (Babar 65, Haris 50, Archer off three successive balls from 2-29) by seven wickets.

John Campbell (left) and Shai Hope celebrate their world record ODI opening partnership against Ireland yesterday. (Twitter)

Agencies West Indians Chris Gayle and ever, comfortably exceeded the with Hope’s 152-ball knock fea- short extra diving to his left, and Dublin Marlon Samuels smashing 372 previous opening best at this turing 22 fours and two sixes. down the ground, and used the for the second wicket against level of 304 set by Pakistan’s Ireland’s attack had sparked shuffl e across the crease adroitly Zimbabwe in Canberra during Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Za- an England top-order collapse to pick up leg-side singles and est Indies openers the 2015 World Cup. man against Zimbabwe in Bula- at nearby Malahide on Friday twos off all lines and lengths. John Campbell and “Good day at the offi ce. We wayo in July last year. but had no answer as the West Campbell was the likelier of Shai Hope shat- put up a really good total, Shai Hope was fi rst to his century Indies ran riot in the opening the pair to hit over the top, and tered the record and John led the way. Good to while Campbell quickly fol- match of a triangular series also he also showed a fondness for Wfor the highest fi rst-wicket see two youngsters leading the lowed to him to a hundred – his featuring Bangladesh. the lap-sweep off the seamers, partnership in a one-day inter- way. Shannon’s got the pace, fi rst in international Cricket. Faced with a mammoth chase, picking up three fours with this national with a stand of 365 as the aggression. We just want to They were both dismissed in Ireland promptly collapsed to 21 shot. their side thrashed Ireland by use it as much as possible. What the 48th over, Campbell top- for three before Kevin O’Brien’s “I’m just looking at this as an- 196 runs in Dublin yesterday. worked for us as well was new- edging Barry McCarthy to mid- 68 at least gave the West Indies other opportunity for me to put Campbell made 179 and Hope ball wickets. It’s encouraging to off with Hope falling three balls bowlers something to think big scores on the board,” said 170 in an eventual total of 381 for get some good reserve players later when he holed out to deep about. John Campbell. three after the visitors were sent coming up. Hopefully guys like square-leg. But the West Indies were al- in to bat by Ireland captain Wil- John, Shane Dowrich and Ros- McCarthy’s fi gures of two for ways in control with off -spinner BRIEF SCORES liam Porterfi eld at Clontarf. ton Chase, who we’ve got in our 76 in a maximum 10 overs were Ashley Nurse taking four for 51 West Indies 381 for 3 (Campbell The Caribbean duo were only squad, can keep putting in good almost respectable amid the in Ireland’s 185 all out. 179, Hope 170, McCarthy 2-76) seven runs shy of the record performances,” West Indies torrent of runs. Hope drove the seamers eye- beat Ireland 185 (O’Brien 68, partnership for any wicket in captain Jason Holder said. Campbell faced 137 balls, in- catchingly through the covers, Nurse 4-51, Gabriel 3-44) by 196 England captain Eoin Morgan celebrates after winning the T20 a men’s ODI, with their fellow Campbell and Hope did, how- cluding 15 fours and six sixes, often opening his bat face to beat runs. match against Pakistan in Cardiff yesterday. (Reuters)

IPL Mumbai sweep aside KKR, fi nish atop points table IANS price for poor decision-making Rahul helps Kings XI Punjab beat Chennai Super Kings Mumbai as Uthappa and Karthik wasted a lot of deliveries in the middle Opener KL Rahul’s blistering 71 cross the line in just 15 overs However, it was too late for the overs while Russell, who was out off 36 balls, followed by Nicholas as their scorecard read 106/0 visitors with Punjab comfortably umbai Indians (MI) for a fi rst-ball duck, was not sent Pooran fireworks (36 off 22 balls) in 10 overs. Harbhajan finally placed at 163/4. With just 8 more fi nished atop the In- in to bat at No. 4 after Chris Lynn guided Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) gave Chennai some respite with runs needed, Mandeep Singh (11 dian Premier League (41; 29b, 4x2, 6x4) had given to an impressive six-wicket win a much needed breakthrough, not out off 9) and Sam Curran (IPL) points table them a steady start. over defending champions dismissing a dangerous Rahul (6 off 7) easily drove Punjab Mat the end of the group stage Uthappa played as many as 24 Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in in the 11th over. Rahul trying home with 12 balls to spare. For of the 12th edition of the cash- dot balls in his woeful knock of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to go for the maximum sliced Chennai, Harbhajan was the pick rich league with a command- 40 (47b, 4x1, 6x3) before Rohit contest in Mohali yesterday. a delivery high in the air and of bowlers as he scalped three ing nine-wicket victory over a took his catch at cover off Bum- Rahul’s run rampage made most Imran Tahir made no mistake at wickets, but leaked 57 runs from listless Kolkata Knight Riders rah in the last over. Bumrah got Chennai bowlers look helpless. extra cover. Just in the next ball, his four overs. Jadeja bagged (KKR) at the Wankhede Stadium another wicket in the very next The opener, whose stunning Harbhajan packed back Gayle one for 16 runs. Earlier, opener yesterday. ball, the last of the innings, as knock was decorated with seven to reduce the hosts to 108/2. Faf du Plessis’s 96 off 55 balls Chasing a paltry 134 for victo- Hardik caught Rinku Singh for 4. fours and five massive sixes, The Caribbean had tried to clear and Suresh Raina’s 53 off 38 balls ry, Mumbai were never in trou- Besides Malinga, who leaked bought up his half-century off the fence but ended up giving a helped Chennai post 170/5 in the ble as skipper Rohit Sharma led 35 runs in his four overs, Hardik just 19 balls. It’s now the third catch to substitute Dhruv Shorey allotted 20 overs. The duo were from the front with an unbeaten also returned impressive fi gures fastest half-century of the ongo- at long-on. Just when the two involved in a crucial 120-run sec- 55 off 48 deliveries, his innings Mumbai Indians’ Rohit Sharma plays a shot during the Indian Premier of 2/20 in 3 overs while Bumrah ing season. Chasing the 171-run new batsmen – Pooran and May- ond wicket partnership, building laced with eight fours. It was League match against Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai. (AFP) ended with 2/31. Mitchell Mc- target, Rahul and his partner ank Agarwal – could add another the platform for a fighting total as Rohit’s 36th IPL fi fty, as Mumbai Clenaghan did not get a wicket Chris Gayle gave Punjab a flying 10 runs in Punjab’s scorecard, their lower middle-order failed to eased to 134/1 in just 16.1 overs. fi ght it out in the Eliminator in 4x1, 6x3) gave Mumbai a fl ying but gave away just 19 runs from start and the hosts were 33/0 in Harbhajan showed his class to contribute. Du Plessis’ knock was The three-time IPL cham- Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. start before Dinesh Karthik took his four overs as the hosts capped the first three overs, before the send Agarwal to the hut. Agar- laced with 10 boundaries and four pions, who fi nished in pole Asked to bat fi rst, KKR had a stunning catch to get rid of him a spectacular bowling display. former clobbered Harbhajan wal could contribute just seven sixes, Raina’s innings contained position with 18 points from Robin Uthappa to blame for his off Prasidh Krishna’s bowling. Singh for 24 runs in the next runs. It seemed the Yellow Bri- five fours and two sixes. 14 matches, will now take on laboured 40 off 47 balls, on a But there was no stopping Ro- BRIEF SCORES over. While Gayle, the self- gade would make a comeback in second-placed Chennai Super day Andre Russell failed to open hit with Suryakumar Yadav (46*, Kolkata Knight Riders: 133/7 in proclaimed ‘boss of universe’, the game. But Pooran seemed in BRIEF SCORES Kings in the Qualifi er 1 in Chen- his account. For the home team, 27b, 4x5, 6x2) also playing a bril- 20 overs (Chris Lynn 41, Robin mostly remained silent, there a hurry to finish things off as his Punjab 173/4 in 18 overs (KL nai tomorrow. veteran Lasith Malinga snared liant hand to smash a six off Rus- Uthappa 40; Lasith Malinga was no stopping Rahul whose lusty blows saw Punjab crossing Rahul 71, Nicholas Pooran 36; Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers three wickets with Hardik Pan- sell in the 17th over and take the 3/35, Hardik Pandya 2/20, Jasprit carnage of Chennai bowlers the 150-run mark in 14.5 overs. Harbhajan Singh 3/57) beat Hyderabad, the latter becom- dya (2/20) and Jasprit Bumrah team home with 23 balls to spare. Bumrah 2/31); Mumbai Indians: saw Punjab reaching 85/0 in Pooran couldn’t continue till Chennai: 170/5 in 20 overs (Faf ing the fi rst team in the history (2/31) also shining with the ball. The duo shared an unbroken 134/1 in 16.1 overs (Rohit Sharma just seven overs. At one stage the last as Ravindra Jadeja cut du Plessis 96, Suresh Raina 53; of the competition to qualify for South Africa stumper-bats- 88-run partnership for the sec- 55 not out; Suryakumar Yadav it looked as if the hosts would short his stay in the 17th over. Sam Curran 3/35) by 6 wickets. the playoff s with 12 points, will man Quinton de Kock (30; 23b, ond wicket. Earlier, KKR paid the 46 not out).