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Tuesday, October 11, 2016 GOLF Muharram 10, 1438 AH Tiger enters the GULF TIMES unknown under competitive spotlight SPORT Page 7

PREVIEW: 2018 WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS Winless Qatar take on gritty Syria in crucial encounter ‘There are technical and tactical details but the most important will be the mentality. The target will be to focus only on the game and not on the table. And if we play well we can win this game’

By Joe Koraith Doha

hree matches. Zero points. Currently at the bottom of the standings. Qatar’s 2018 World Cup campaign hasn’t taken off yet.T Today they take on Syria in their fourth match looking to fi nally kick- start their ‘Road to Russia’ dream. And this match would be just about the right time to get those precious points and give some wings to that dream of qualifying for the World Cup. Out of the six-team Group A, two teams earn direct qualifi cation and the third-placed team will qualify for the play-off round. Qatar have so far lost to Iran and South Korea – the two Asian power- houses expected to earn direct qualifi - cation. But it was their shock 1-0 loss to Uzbekistan that put a huge spanner in the works. In their last match against South Korea, under new coach Jorge Fossati, Qatar showed a lot of fi ghting spirit and were leading at the half-way mark. But two goals in two minutes, at the start of the second half, changed the complexion of the game from which Qatar never recovered. Fossati wants Qatar to play like they did against Ko- rea – barring those sketchy 15 minutes. “If we analyse the last game, the fi rst 15 minutes of the second half were the only bad phase that Qatar had during the entire match. The other 75 minutes, considering the quality of the opponents, was the best perform- ance by the Qatar team so far,” said Qatar coach Jorge Fossati (top) conducts a training session ahead of his team’s 2018 World Cup third round qualification match against Syria today. (Right) Striker Sebastian Soria during training yesterday. Fossati yesterday. “The team started the second half tors have an extremely solid defence, quipped: “Football has always had two that would be a remarkable story. “It DETERMINED thinking about keeping that partial having conceded just one goal in three posts. One you need to defend and the would be a historic achievement. We result we had. We cannot go into the matches so far. And they will be look- other you need to attack. And the team don’t have a complete picture yet, but second half with that kind of focus. ing to park the bus against Qatar too who does that well, wins.” it’ll be a great achievement for us if we It happens subconsciously and that’s and go on the counter at every avail- Syria coach Ayman al-Hakeem is overcome all these obstacles and earn Japan to bring courage what I had a talk with the players able opportunity. hoping for another committed, de- qualifi cation,” added al-Hakeem. about,” he added. Fossati accepted that it will be a fensive performance from his boys. Fossati will be hoping to fi nd that The Uruguayan believes that if the tough match for his team. “We will be “We know Qatar like to go on the at- chink in the armour and get that all- against Asia’s best, says Qatar players exhibit the right men- facing a tough opponent. Their results tack a lot. There will be pressure but important elusive win. And for that he tality, they will end up winners to- speak about their performance. They for us that’s a constant factor because wants his players to forget the past and day. “There are technical and tactical play physical football. But we will do we’re always playing away from home. give it all in this game. “I understand coach Halilhodzic details but the most important will our best to play our style of football. I We’re overcoming the diffi culties with the nervousness about the results. But be the mentality. The target will be to believe our players have the quality to our high morale and team spirit,” he we need to focus only on the game, not Reuters “We are in a diffi cult situation but focus only on the game and not on the achieve a win,” said the experienced said. think about the past, not think about Melbourne mentally maybe we will be better. table. And if we play well we can win veteran coach. While it’s still early days, Syria do the standings. I believe we can win,” We play against the Asian champi- this game,” he stressed. When asked about his strategy have an outside chance to qualify and said Fossati. Qatar supporters will be ons, the best team in Asia and we The focus on the table is evident, in- for the next game, the 63-year-old considering the trouble back home, hoping his words come true today. apan coach Vahid Halilhodzic are very motivated. Each player is escapable almost because of the dire has shrugged off injury concerns thinking to win this game” circumstances that the home team fi nds ahead of today’s 2018 World Cup itself in. But Fossati believes that with Qatar vs Syria – How they stack up qualifi er against Australia and play against the Asian champions, the 21 points still on off er, Qatar still has a Jdefended his team’s slow start to the best team in Asia and we are very mo- Qatar are rooted to the foot of Group only option against Syria is to win the FORM strong chance to qualify for the fi nals. A after suff ering a third consecutive match in order to get back on track. Qatar WWLLL fi nal phase for Russia. tivated. Each player is thinking to win “It’s not true that this match is the loss at the hands of Korea Republic, “We have already forgotten the match Syria WDLDW Japan opened their campaign with this game.” last opportunity for us. Everybody while opponents Syria picked up their against Korea Republic and our main a surprise home loss to United Arab Since Australia joined the Asian has seven games left. Even if we win first three points of the campaign as focus is the match against Syria, HOW THEY FARED ON MD3 Emirates and their last-gasp win over Football Confederation (AFC) in 2006, against Syria, nothing is certain. It an impressive 1-0 victory in China which is very important for us. Our Korea Republic 3-2 Qatar Iraq in Saitama on Thursday did little the teams have developed a fi erce ri- might look like it’s impossible but I kept their World Cup dream alive. opponents are very strong and their Goals from Hasan al-Haydos and to ease the pressure on the 63-year-old valry, facing off at the 2006 World Cup believe that only in next 3-4 games, results show that we must put in a lot Sebastian Soria saw Qatar take a 2-1 Bosnian, who has endured heavy criti- in Germany and in the 2011 Asian Cup the scenario will become clear,” said KEY POINTS of eff ort to win the game tomorrow.” lead into the interval against 10-man cism from a disgruntled home media. fi nal, which Japan won. Fossati. Jorge Fossati insists Qatar must de- Korea Republic at Suwon World Cup Having already lost forward Yoshi- Japan have not lost to Australia in Syria, meanwhile, have been upset- feat Syria in order to get qualification Ayman al-Hakim, Syria Stadium, yet Son Heung-min’s winner nori Muto and attacking midfi elder seven years but have been unable to ting the odds in this qualifying cam- campaign back on track. “We want to have a positive result made it three straight defeats for the Takashi Usami to injuries before the beat them in their last four World Cup paign. They have secured an impres- Syria’s Ayman al-Hakim says win over against a strong team who haven’t Qataris. But Fossati has been pleased Iraq game, Halilhodzic may be without qualifi ers, including a 2-1 loss in their sive 1-0 win against China in their China gave his team a “big boost”. had good results lately. But they have with the team’s performance for the Shinji Okazaki in Melbourne, with the last Melbourne showdown in 2009. last match and have four points from Qatar looking to secure first points good players and I’m sure that they majority of the match and will be hop- Leicester City striker missing training Halilhodzic did not hesitate to declare their three matches so far. The visi- of their Russia 2018 Asian Qualifying are looking for a good result regard- ing that his boys deliver the high-level on Sunday after hurting his ankle in the Australia favourites for the match and Third Round campaign; Syria have less of their current position in the performance which they showed Saitama match. warned his players to brace for huge pres- Today’s Fixtures four points from three games. group. against these high-quality opponents. Halilhodzic declined to comment on sure from highly physical opponents. Zahir al-Medani will return for Syria “Each match is very important for us Okazaki’s fi tness but said his team was He also said his team deserved more GROUP A after missing the victory over China and we respect all our opponents. China 0-1 Syria in reasonable shape to take on the Asian credit for their backs-to-the-wall eff ort Uzbekistan vs China 4pm through suspension. The win against China will give us a Mahmoud al-Mawas scored Syria’s Cup champions at Docklands stadium. against Iraq which left them third place Iran vs South Korea 4:45pm Sides have not faced off against each big boost although we will continue maiden goal of the qualifying cam- “Yes, we lack two players and that will in Asia’s Group B on six points, one be- Qatar vs Syria 7pm other for more than seven years. to approach each match on its own paign as the West Asians claimed a be a handicap but I will not search for ex- hind leading Australia and Saudi Arabia. as the road is still long.” first win in Group A with a 1-0 score- cuses,” the French-speaking coach told “We won but not everyone was GROUP B COACH QUOTES line away to China keeping Ayman reporters through a translator. happy,” he said. “I am proud of the last Australia vs Japan 12pm Jorge Fossati, Qatar HEAD-TO-HEAD RECORD al-Hakim’s team just three points “We’ll go with courage. I will not be victory, we couldn’t play better in the Iraq vs Thailand 3:30pm “We have a diff icult task as our posi- 21/03/09 Syria 1-2 Qatar adrift of table-toppers Islamic Repub- telling you we lack this, we lack that. football aspect but we won with cour- Saudi Arabia vs U.A.E. 8:45pm tion in the group is not good and our 13/01/08 Syria 0-0 Qatar lic of Iran and Korea Republic. “We are in a diffi cult situation but age and character and that’s a new situ- mentally maybe we will be better. We ation with Japan.” Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, October 11, 2016 FOOTBALL

WORLD CUP QUALIFIER SPOTLIGHT Cult N Irish striker Loew’s Germany Grigg sits out of Germany clash

AFP the Northern Irish in this regard.” Berlin In Grigg’s absence, Laff erty of target ‘perfect 12’ Norwich City, Conor Washing- ton of Queens Park Rangers and ill Grigg is on fi re, as Leeds United’s Stuart Dallas will the chant states, but be vying to start up front against the Wigan striker Germany. will be watching Laff erty has scored nine goals WNorthern Ireland’s World Cup in 11 qualifi ers for Northern Ire- qualifi er away to Germany from land, but is lacking match fi tness on road to Russia home today. The 25-year-old after fi nding himself mainly on became a cult fi gure at Euro 2016 the bench at Norwich this sea- with Northern Ireland fans’ in- son. O’Neill has warned his team World champions are in no mood to drop points against Northern Ireland fectious “Will Grigg’s On Fire to expect a backlash after Ger- (your defence is terrifi ed)” chant, many failed to win the Euro 2016 despite the fact he did not play a title. The Northern Irish lost 1-0 minute of the campaign. to Joachim Loew’s world cham- He has since scored six goals pions duing the group stages and in 11 appearances for Wigan this know what to expect in Hanover. season, but misses their 2018 “We played them recently in the qualifi er against world cham- Euros — that’s a big thing in our pions Germany in Hanover be- favour,” said O’Neill. cause his partner has recently “If you look at their fi rst two given birth. “It’s a blow for Will. games, they’re reacting, possi- He’s been on the scoresheet, but bly, to not having won in France,” I had a good chat with him and he he added after Germany posted didn’t feel being here was right,” 3-0 wins over Norway and the said Northern Irish manager Czech Republic in their opening Michael O’Neill. qualifi ers. “We have to be ready Grigg also sat out Saturday’s for that backlash, because I think 4-0 win over minnows San Ma- they’ve started this campaign in rino in Belfast when Kyle Laf- a diff erent mindset than possibly ferty came off the bench to score they did for the Euros when they two late goals. The Germans are dropped points against teams top of the World Cup qualifying that I think they wouldn’t nor- group while Northern Ireland are mally do.” third after two matches. Northern Ireland have not Germany defender Mats conceded a goal in fi ve of their Hummels admitted the world last seven qualifi ers, but face a champions are envious of the big test against the world cham- atmosphere-inducing Irish fans’ pions. Bayern Munich striker chant for Grigg which they sing Thomas Mueller has scored four with gusto to get behind their goals in his last two games for the team. “The Northern Irish have Germans, but the Irish are aware a huge advantage with their Will of the task which faces them. “(A Grigg song,” admitted the Bayern positive result) would be just any Munich defender in press con- points on the board,” said Wash- ference. ington. “We enjoy playing in front of “Teams have gone there and our home fans, but we still have got points before, so I can’t see a little way to go before we match why we can’t go and do that.”

Germany’s players warm up during a training session in Hanover yesterday, on the eve of the World Cup 2018 match against Northern Ireland. (AFP)

AFP mum number of points from our next four qualifi ers is motivated by their less- scored four goals in his last two inter- Berlin two games,” said Germany head coach than-perfect qualifying campaign for nationals. The World Cup qualifi er in Joachim Loew yesterday. Euro 2016 when they suff ered two away Hanover is a chance for die Mannschaft “We are concentrating on ourselves, defeats. “We are very motivated to invest to exorcise a few bad memories. Last ermany want another win that we develop further and make sure we everything in this two-year campaign for November’s friendly against the Nether- in today’s World Cup quali- win our games, but we’re self-confi dent the World Cup,” said Hummels. “We are lands in Hanover was called off hours be- fi er against Northern Ireland in enough to say we’ll qualify.” Germany top on the right path and we want to show we fore kick-off over security concerns, just their bid for a perfect 12 points the group on goal diff erence from sur- are one of the best teams in the world.” four days after the German team spent Gfrom their fi rst four games on the road prise-package Azerbaijan, who have also Hummels and Jerome Boateng knocked the night at the Stade de France due to the to Russia. Victories away to Norway last won their opening two games. numerous diagonal balls forward to great terror attacks in Paris on November 13. “It month and at home to the Czech Republic Northern Ireland are third after beat- success against the Czechs, but Loew will be a little bit at the back of the mind, on Saturday by the same 3-0 scorelines ing San Marino 4-0 in Belfast on Satur- does not expect to deploy the same long- but I don’t believe it will lead to any un- leave Germany top of Group C in their day following last month’s goalless draw ball tactic against the Irish. “I don’t think pleasant feelings,” added Hummels. 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign. against the Czech Republic in Prague. Northern Ireland will present us with the The world champions are in no mood to After Germany beat the Irish 1-0 in their same opportunities,” said Loew. FIXTURES (TIMES IN GMT) drop points against Michael O’Neill’s Euro 2016 group match in June, Loew ex- “They will sit deeper and not pack the Group C: Czech Republic vs Azerbaijan; Northern Ireland in Hanover. pects another hard-fought match. middle as much as the Czechs, and they Germany vs Northern Ireland; Norway vs A win over the Irish, then again at min- “The team is passionate, the players have very good players in the air. They San Marino (all at 1845) nows San Marino on November 11, would have a big heart,” he said. “A large part won’t give us so much space.” Group E: Kazakhstan vs Romania (1600); yield a maximum 12 points from four of their Euro 2016 squad will also be in Loew is spoilt for choice. Boateng and Denmark vs Montenegro; Poland vs qualifi ers leaving Germany in pole posi- Hanover, so we know what to expect.” Jonas Hector, plus winger Julian Draxler, Armenia (1845) Northern Ireland’s head coach Michael O’Neill (left) speaks to the tion to qualify for Russia. “I have told the Defender Mats Hummels admits Ger- are fi t despite picking up knocks against Group F: Lithuania vs Malta; Slovakia vs media in Hanover, Germany yesterday, on the eve of their World Cup team I’ll only be happy if we get the maxi- many’s desire for 12 points from their fi rst the Czechs Thomas Mueller has now Scotland; Slovenia vs England (1845) 2018 qualifier against Germany. (AFP)

FOCUS Alli thrives at being England’s natural-born entertainer

By David Hytner in London tion. But, in the last minute of the defi nition of The Guardian a stroll, they suddenly vented their feelings at Rooney. At the full-time whistle there was an- other smattering of boos for the team. ele Alli took a moment to consider the Alli feels like the counterpoint to the belea- question. Gareth Southgate had made guered and laboured Rooney, a player with the it plain before his England manage- freedom Southgate craves – one capable of pro- rial debut against Malta he wanted his viding the spark Rooney once did. Alli makes playersD to excite the supporters, to play with the game look fun. Rooney, sadly, does not, at style and to take risks without the fear of repris- present. als. It was a message that seemed to be directed If Southgate got one big thing right it was the at Alli as much as anyone else – the No10 in his decision to use Alli as a No10 and order him to 4-2-3-1 formation, the creative fulcrum. So, stay as close to the striker, Daniel Sturridge, as could the Tottenham Hotspur player be Eng- possible. Against such limited opponents he did land’s entertainer? not want Alli to clog up things by dropping off “The entertainer?” the 20-year-old said. “I in search of the ball. Moreover, Alli is regularly hope so ... I like to enjoy the game and to have more eff ective when he plays further forward. fun and express myself as much as I can. That’s “If I’m playing higher up the pitch it’s impor- the kind of thing Gareth was saying to us before tant I don’t get carried away and start dropping the game. So it suited me well.” too deep and I stay in my position,” Alli said. Alli’s fearlessness is born of the impudence of “It’s diff erent in every game but against Malta his youth, the strength of his character and the it was important I did stay out of the way and belief he has in his ability. This is a player who worked with Sturridge a bit more, and tried to nutmegged Real Madrid’s Luka Modric after 24 play off him.” minutes of his fi rst start for Tottenham – in a The Slovenia match will be diff erent and Alli pre-season friendly last year – and whose game will probably be told to be more aware of certain is defi ned by a determination to try things and defensive responsibilities, but he has to start in keep trying them. the role he played against Malta and so does the He failed to score from a free header in the Fearless midfielder Dele Alli (centre) showed during the World Cup 2018 qualifier against Malta he loves pressure and being England’s No 10. (Reuters) central midfi elder Jordan Henderson after his 22nd minute against Malta, when he was denied outstanding performance on Saturday. by the excellent Andrew Hogg after he had got Walcott, and he was still driving into the pen- Tottenham and for England. I just wanted to go when he came on the pitch, I heard the boos” It is likely Southgate will recall the defensive the run on Ryan Camilleri, but his head did not alty box at the end. When the substitute Marcus out there and enjoy the game.” – and there was another outpouring when the midfi elder, Eric Dier, and it all points to Rooney drop. It never does. He scored England’s sec- Rashford crossed low from the right, Alli should Alli’s attitude feels priceless in the current captain, who played in midfi eld, fl uff ed an eff ort – who the interim manager sees as more of a ond goal at the second attempt towards the end have scored from close range and he knew it. But climate, with England still touched by the trau- in the 89th minute. midfi elder – as being the odd man out. Rooney of the fi rst half, after Hogg had beaten away his he will continue to put himself in the right areas ma of Euro 2016 and the disconnect between the The 81,781 crowd had been subdued and, could be pressed wide in place of Lingard or fi rst shot, and it felt like a reward for his slick in the next World Cup qualifi er away to Slovenia team and some fans tangible. It was crystallised in the sludge of the second half, some of them Walcott, or Southgate may have to drop him movement and persistence. on Tuesday night. by the treatment of Wayne Rooney. sought their own entertainment, switching on which, you suspect, he really does not want to Alli fi red England’s most eye-catching attack “I’ve always thrived under the pressure of the The Malta substitute Michael Mifsud said he their phone torches and waving them from side do. The discussion will dominate the count- of the game after 64 minutes with a backheel big games,” Alli said. “I enjoy that and there’s heard a section of the support booing Rooney to side. In fairness, it was never going to be a down to Slovenia. Alli is primed to take centre for Jesse Lingard, who laid on a chance for Theo nothing I get afraid about. I enjoy playing at before kick-off – “He got some disapproval thriller against such ultra-defensive opposi- stage. Gulf Times Tuesday, October 11, 2016 3 FOOTBALL

WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS ROUND-UP Messi set Immobile strike rescues to return from injury

Italy as Spain cruise Agencies Barcelona

Italy are second in Group G with seven points but Spain lead the way on goal diff erence arcelona maestro Li- onel Messi is preparing to make his return from injury against Deportivo LaB Coruna on Saturday to en- sure he can start in next week’s mouth-watering Champions League clash with Manchester City. The fi ve-times world player of the year has been out of action since injuring his groin in the 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid on Sept. 21, missing victories over Sporting Gijon and Borussia Moenchengladbach and the 4-3 defeat at Celta Vigo. The Argentina captain also missed his country’s World Cup qualifi ers against Peru and Paraguay. According to Mundo Deportivo, Messi is set to start Saturday’s La Liga fi xture with Deportivo at the Nou Camp on the bench with a view to coming on in the second half. After easing himself back into action, Messi will expect to line up against Premier League lead- ers City on Oct. 19, when former Barca coach Pep Guardiola re- turns to the Nou Camp. The injury has prevented Messi from training with his team mates for three weeks but he is set to resume ball work to- day before rejoining full training on Thursday. Barca are fourth in La Liga on 13 points, two behind leaders Atletico Madrid. The return of the club’s all- time top scorer and talisman comes at the right time as they prepare to meet City twice in a fortnight and face diffi cult La Liga trips to Valencia on Oct. 22 and Sevilla on Nov. 6.

REAL’S RAMOS SIDELINED WITH KNEE SPRAIN Real Madrid’s Spanish interna- tional defender Sergio Ramos Italy’s forward Ciro Immobile (centre) celebrates with his teammates and coaches after scoring the winner against Macedonia during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualifying match in Skopje on Sunday. (AFP) suff ered a left knee sprain in the weekend’s 2-0 World Cup quali- AFP Euro 2016 semi-fi nalists Wales were held to a fying win in Albania, the La Liga Paris European World Cup qualifying results disappointing 1-1 draw by Georgia in Cardiff as side confi rmed yesterday. their push to reach a fi rst World Cup since 1958 Spain captain Ramos, 30, was GROUP D GROUP G GROUP I hit a roadblock. The draw followed a 2-2 stalemate hurt late in the game after falling azio striker Ciro Immobile grabbed an At Cardiff : Wales 1 (Bale 10) Geor- At Jerusalem: Israel 2 (Hemed At Krakow, Poland: Ukraine 3 against Austria four days ago as Chris Coleman’s awkwardly following an aerial injury-time winner as four-time champi- gia 1 (Okriashvili 57) 4, 16) Liechtenstein 1 (Goppel 49) (Kravets 31, Yarmolenko 81, Rotan side were left to regret not making the most of a duel before he was eventually ons Italy snatched a 3-2 comeback win at At Belgrade: Serbia 3 (Mitrovic 6, At Shkoder, Albania: Albania 0 87) Kosovo 0 host of chances in the fi rst half. replaced by Inigo Martinez. “He Macedonia on Sunday, narrowly avoiding a 23, Tadic 74) Austria 2 (Sabitzer 15, Spain 2 (Costa 55, Nolito 63) At Tampere, Finland: Finland 0 Real Madrid star Gareth Bale headed Wales into has been diagnosed with a grade LWorld Cup qualifying embarrassment. a 10th-minute lead but Georgia hit back after the two sprain of the medial col- Janko 62) At Skopje: Macedonia 2 Croatia 1 (Mandzukic 18) Italy, who had needed a late penalty to salvage At Chisinau: Moldova 1 (Bugaiov (Nestorovski 57, Hasani 59) At Reykjavik: Iceland 2 break, equalising through Tornike Okriashvili’s lateral knee ligament in the left a point against Group G rivals Spain on Thursday, 45+1) Republic of Ireland 3 (Long Italy 3 (Belotti 24, Immobile 75, (Toprak 42-og, Finnbogason 44) 57th-minute header. Georgia nearly won the game knee. His recovery will continue were staring at a shock defeat in Skopje against a 2, McClean 69, 76)) 90+2) Turkey 0 late on when Valeri Kazaishvili struck the crossbar. to be assessed,” Real said. Macedonia side ranked a lowly 146 in the world. “People will look at it as two points dropped but Real did not reveal for how Torino striker Andrea Belotti had given Italy a it might be a point gained at the end of the day, in long he would be sidelined but its 24th-minute lead just four minutes after Palermo weak and let up in the second half. You can’t give injury which could sideline him for three matches the second half,” said Coleman whose team went is reported he would be out for at marksman Ilija Nestorokvski had crashed a drive anything away at international level, we had to be with his club side, Real Madrid. In Group D, South- from top of the group to third place. least six weeks. His absence will off the crossbar for the hosts. But Nestorokvski more ruthless,” admitted Immobile. ampton’s Dusan Tadic scored the winner as Serbia In Group I, Croatia won 1-0 in Finland at Tam- be a further blow for Spain and levelled just before the hour mark when he robbed Italy are second in Group G with seven points beat Austria 3-2 in Belgrade. pere with Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic scor- Real with Zinedine Zidane’s side Marco Verratti before tucking the ball past veteran but Spain lead the way on goal diff erence after a Newcastle’s Alexsandar Mitrovic had scored ing the only goal after 18 minutes when Finland already without injured Casem- goalkeeper Gianluigi Buff on. deserved 2-0 win over Albania in Shkoder. Chelsea Serbia’s fi rst two goals in the opening half as his goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky allowed a cross from iro and Luka Modric in midfi eld. Two minutes later, Macedonia were ahead when star Diego Costa tucked away the fi rst on 55 min- side went top on seven points. They lead the way Andrej Kramaric to slip from his grasp. Ramos should miss upcoming midfi elder Ferhan Hasani fi nished a smart move utes past goalkeeper Etrit Berisha who had pulled on goal diff erence from the Republic of Ireland who Croatia have seven points and lead on goal dif- La Liga games against Real Betis, involving Goran Pandev and Nestorovski. However off a series of fi ne saves in the first half. beat Moldova 3-1 in Chisinau. ference from Iceland who followed up their come- Athletic Bilbao and promoted Immobile put Italy back on equal terms at 2-2 with Nolito hit the second of the night just three Wes Hoolahan fed Shane Long to score after just from-behind 3-2 win over Finland with an impres- Alaves and Leganes. He will also 15 minutes left after good approach work from Ver- minutes after coming on as a substitute for Vitolo. two minutes for Ireland but Moldova, beaten 3-0 sive a 2-0 victory over Turkey in Reykjavik. Turkey miss a Champions League dou- ratti and Antonio Candreva. “This was a very diffi cult match even if it appeared by Serbia at home on Thursday, levelled in injury- defender Omer Toprak put through his own goal in ble header against Legia Warsaw, On 90 minutes, Marco Parolo had a header ruled easy,” said Nolito. “Albania are a good side who time when Igor Bugaiov scored his fi rst goal in fi ve the 42nd minute before Alfred Finnbogason added and Spain’s home World Cup out for off side before club teammate Immobile know how to play.” years. West Brom’s James McClean was on tar- a second just before the break. Ukraine are third, qualifi er against Macedonia, and saved Italy with the winner two minutes into in- The only downside for Spain was seeing key de- get twice after the break to give Ireland the three two points back, after a 3-0 win over Kosovo in a friendly against England in early jury time, fi nishing off a Candreva cross. “We were fender and skipper Sergio Ramos suff er a left knee points. game played at Krakow in Poland. November.

SPOTLIGHT Rooney set to be dropped by Southgate for Slovenia clash

The Guardian The Slovenia manager, Srecko Katanec, said HART READY FOR TOUGH London yesterday that he would not be surprised if CLASH IN SLOVENIA Rooney is dropped as “he is not the youngest Meanwhile. England goalkeeper Joe Hart ex- any more and his form has taken a little dip”. pects Slovenia to push the side hard when the areth Southgate is set to drop Wayne “Wayne Rooney is a leader of this team, he teams meet in Ljubljana today. Victories over Rooney from the England team for to- has the experience a captain needs and it is Slovakia and Malta have propelled England to day’s World Cup 2018 qualifi er against quite hard to substitute him or leave him out. the top of Group F. Slovenia in Ljubljana and increase un- But it is also true that he is not the youngest any But Hart is taking nothing for granted given Gcertainty over the captain’s future role in the more and maybe his form has taken a little dip.” Slovenia were the only side to score against national side. Rooney’s future both as a starter and captain him during England’s largely untroubled run in Rooney’s place has been under scrutiny since for his country now looks uncertain. Despite qualifying for Euro 2016. England’s woeful departure from Euro 2016 but that, the former Sampdoria player did suggest England’s 3-1 comeback win was followed by he started in midfi eld for Sam Allardyce in Eng- that leaving Rooney on the sidelines could be a 3-2 success in Slovenia and Hart said yester- land’s opening qualifi er against Slovakia, which benefi cial to the hosts. day: “It was probably our toughest two games they won 1-0, and played against Malta on Sat- “Because of his experience and quality I of the group, especially at Wembley. They took urday night in a routine 2-0 victory at Wembley would rather he would not start than he does the lead and it took us a while to get back into it. under Southgate. start,” he added. It was one of those tough internationals.” But the interim manager is expected to bring Slovenia, who lost twice to England in Euro Hart, on loan to Italian side Torino from Pre- Eric Dier into the side in Rooney’s place in 2016 qualifying, go into the game on the back miership club Manchester City, added: “I think Southgate’s fi rst major test since being handed of a morale-boosting 1-0 victory over Slova- we then played them in mid-June and Jack the reigns following Allardyce’s sudden depar- kia. But Katanec wants his men to approach the (Wilshere) had an amazing game and scored ture last month. On Sunday, Southgate talked game in measured fashion. “I warned the guys two fantastic goals. We ended up really need- up Rooney’s infl uence inside the dressing room against too much euphoria after the Slovakia ing Wazza’s (Wayne Rooney) cool, calm head to and stressed the positives in the 30-year-old’s result,” he continued. stick the ball away. contribution against Malta. “You cannot compare the two teams; Eng- “It was a really good win for us and a really But he also made clear that he would have the land has a lot more quality in every way. The good game. We expect the same sort of game courage to drop Rooney, in the context of the England’s Wayne Rooney (second right), Jordan Henderson (left) and Jamie Vardy at a training team functions very well and we expect a tough on Tuesday night. I played against one of their forward’s recent troubles at Manchester United session in Enfield, north London, yesterday. (AFP) match in every aspect. England have very quick players last Sunday for Fiorentina, Josip Ilicic. where Jose Mourinho has not started him in any players and very fast in transition from defence He is a strong player with a good left foot. They of the past three games. for England, you’re going to leave out some ing every week in the Premier League, so you to attack. But we don’t need to be afraid of the have got some good players and they work well “I’ve got to make decisions which are right players,” Southgate said. “You look at the bench have to be prepared to do that (make tough de- game or afraid to lose. The guys are unbur- as a group. They have got a fantastic keeper so for the team and, whenever you select a team [against Malta] and there are guys who are play- cisions). That’s part and parcel of the job.” dened.” they are going to be good.” Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, October 11, 2016 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Must-win game for Chile over Peru in ‘Clasico del Pacifi co’ Brazil travel to winless Venezuela, while leaders Uruguay face an awkward away game against fourth placed Colombia

AFP Montevideo, Chile

hile face a must-win showdown with fi erce regional rivals Peru today as the South American champions aim to make up lost ground after a stumbling startC to their 2018 World Cup qualifi cation campaign. After a 3-0 thrashing by Ecuador in Quito on Thursday, the Chileans limped back to Santiago a full fi ve points adrift of the qualify- ing places in South America’s marathon battle for World Cup berths. Chile, the dominant force in South America over the past two years with back-to-back wins in the 2015 and 2016 Copa Americas, still have plenty of time to turn their campaign around with nine games left. But anything less than a win against Peru today risks leaving them with a mountain to climb if they are to qualify for a third con- secutive World Cup. “We need to score goals, and we need to win because we’re playing at home. Winning is the only option for us now,” said Chile midfi elder Marcelo Diaz, who is still smarting from last week’s drubbing by Ecuador. “We lost, we were very bad, played a lousy game and that’s all I can say,” Diaz said. “All we can do now is look to Tuesday to try and change the story of what we are doing,” the Celta Vigo player added. Veteran defender Gonzalo Jara admitted the team was baffl ed by its failure to take more than one point from its last three games, a scrap- py 0-0 home draw against Bolivia, one of the weakest teams in the qualifying competition. “We’ve not being playing well as a collective. We just aren’t creating the chances that we nor- mally do,” Jara said. The only upside for Chile is that Peru, who have not won in Santiago since 1985, have barely performed any better. The Peruvians, who held Argentina to a 2-2 draw in Lima on Thursday, are in eighth place after nine games, three points behind Chile. The high stakes nature of today’s meeting adds fuel to the “Clasico del Pacifi c” one of South America’s most potent footballing rival- ries, with the Andean neighbours having a long historical enmity that dates back to the 1879- 1883 War of the Pacifi c. Football has often been a bone of conten- Chile’s Alexis Sanchez practices during a training session in Santiago, ahead of tonight’s home 2018 World Cup qualifying match against Peru. (AFP) tion, with diff erences of opinion remaining to this day over which country was responsible for name, “La Chalaca.” tiful game”). “Our attack was very fl uid, creating opportu- to winning ways after being held to a second the invention of the bicycle kick. Chileans insist Elsewhere today, Brazil will aim to maintain Brazil travel to winless Venezuela and on form nities. It was a great performance and we must consecutive draw in Thursday’s 2-2 battle with they invented it in a 1914 match, christening their sparkling form under new coach Tite, still should have no problem picking up another try and continue on this path, and keep improv- Peru. The Argentinians, who will be without the overhead volley as “La Chilena.” Peruvians buoyant after a 5-0 drubbing of Bolivia last week three points to keep the pressure fi rmly on group ing in every game,” said Brazil’s Filipe Luis, one injured captain Lionel Messi once more, host maintain it was fact fi rst attempted in the port that has left commentators breathlessly talking leaders Uruguay, who face an awkward away of the goalscorers in the defeat of Bolivia. Paraguay in Cordoba. Messi is back in Barcelona city of Callao in the late 1800s, being given the about a renaissance of “jogo bonito” (“the beau- game against fourth placed Colombia. Argentina meanwhile will aim to get back and is all set to play on Saturday in La Liga.

PIQUE SAYS WILL QUIT SPAIN ROUND-UP TEAM IN POLITICAL SPAT Rejuvenated Tadic thriving Madrid: Spanish defender Gerard Pique has an- A federation statement said the national col- nounced that he will end his international career ours: “only appear on the short-sleeved version of after the 2018 World Cup amid renewed controver- the team strip and not on the long-sleeved model under new coach for Serbia sy over his political views. The Barcelona star, who worn by Pique.” supports independence for Catalonia, came under The wealthy Catalan region has been calling for Reuters fire again after Sunday’s 2-0 World Cup qualifying more autonomy in recent years from Madrid and Belgrade win against Albania. regional lawmakers last month approved a plan Pique, who played in the Spain team which won to call a referendum next year on independence. the 2010 World Cup and 2012 European champi- First capped in 2009, Pique is an automatic choice xed by Serbia after they failed to reach the Euro 2016 fi nals, onships, was criticised in the Spanish media for in central defence for Spain and a key part of their Dusan Tadic is enjoying a new lease of life in international allegedly removing the national colours from his plans for the Moscow World Cup finals, when he football and has propelled the Balkan nation to top spot in playing strip. The accusations were the last straw will be 31. But some fans angered by his support their 2018 World Cup qualifying group. The Southampton wingerA has scored three and set up the other fi ve goals for Serbia in for the defender who has played 85 times for his for independence from Spain, say he should be country. dropped. “There are also people who believe that their three Group D games so far, leading the way in Sunday’s 3-2 “The World Cup in Russia is going to be my last it’s better that I am not here,” said Pique. home win over Austria with a goal and two assists. Tadic’s Serbia tournament with the national team...,” he said after Spain coach Lopetegui meanwhile said he sym- career had looked all but over after former coach Radovan Curcic the game in Shkoder, Albania. “This is not a deci- pathised with the defender. “This does deserve dropped him for friendlies against Poland and Estonia in March, sion that I have taken today, I have been thinking any comment as I don’t think it’s a serious issue. leading the winger to walk away from the international setup. about it. But the criticisms today have added to I also understand Pique. We are very happy with Slavoljub Muslin, who took over in May, held out an olive branch what has happened over the last few years.” his performance and of the rest of the team,” when he recalled the 27-year-old and Tadic has made the most of Spanish media outlets said Pique had cut short Lopetegui told Teledeporte. a second chance to shine for his country. “I almost burst into tears the sleeves of his team uniform to remove the na- “We’re calm and relaxed about this. Some jour- when the whole stadium started chanting my name at the end of the tional flag colours of red and yellow. The Spanish nalists might find this interesting but us profes- game,” Tadic told reporters after the pulsating win over Austria. Football Federation sprang to his defence, pointing sionals do not. Pique’s commitment cannot be “It doesn’t matter who’s getting the assists and the goals, the im- out that the Spanish colours did not feature on the doubted. We’re going to let this issue calm down, portant thing is that we are winning. Muslin has deployed the right team strip worn in Albania. there’s no need to jump to conclusions.” strategy and we’re only going to get better.” Tadic is thriving in a revamped 3-4-3 formation as a right-sided forward playing behind striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, with Filip Ko- stic on the other fl ank. The role has given him more freedom in at- tack and Serbia have reaped the rewards, topping the group on seven points from three games, ahead of Ireland on goal diff erence. Tadic, however, was quick to highlight that Serbia, who have not qualifi ed for a major tournament since the 2010 World Cup, still had a long way to go in the World Cup campaign. Serbia’s next qualifi er is a tough fi xture away to Euro 2016 semi-fi nalists Wales on Nov. 12.

FIFA PRESIDENT INFANTINO FEARS ALLARDYCE STING IS ‘TIP OF THE ICEBERG’ FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed his concerns over third-party ownership in soccer and hinted that the sport’s global governing body may need to adopt fresh measures to weed out the issue. Sam Allardyce was sacked as England manager after 67 days Serbia’s midfielder Dusan Tadic. (AFP) in charge when he was fi lmed making comments about how rules banning transfers involving third-party ownership could be circum- NAPOLI STRIKER MILIK OUT FOR ‘MONTHS’ navigated in an undercover newspaper sting. Napoli striker Arkadiusz Milik will be out for several months af- “First of all, I was very surprised. Then I felt very sad because ter rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee in Poland’s when stories like this come out with regard to misconduct, money World Cup qualifying victory over Denmark. Following an MRI scan, fl ows and so on, it’s not good for football,” Infantino said. Napoli issued a statement confi rming Milik had suff ered a “total The Telegraph newspaper then unearthed another crisis when rupture” during the 3-2 win in Warsaw on Saturday. eight current and former Premier League managers were accused of He will likely go under the knife on Monday and is expected to be receiving ‘bungs’ for player transfers as part of the same series of re- absent from the pitch for 4-6 months. The Polish federation had ports highlighting corruption in the game. earlier taken to Twitter to announce that Milik would likely need “When you hear that this is only the tip of the iceberg and there is surgery and “be out for several months”. Spain’s Gerard Pique (left) vies for the ball with Albania’s Ansi Agolli during the FIFA World Cup maybe more to come then this is maybe more worrying. Before tak- Milik, 22, joined Napoli in August from Ajax and has made a huge 2018 qualification match at the Loro-Borici stadium in Shkoder, on Sunday. (AFP) ing any fi nal judgement, we have to wait for the investigation by the impact at the Serie A club. After two rounds of the Champions (English) FA,” Infantino added. League for Napoli he is joint top scorer on three goals. Gulf Times Tuesday, October 11, 2016 5 CRICKET

THIRD TEST PUNISHMENT B’desh skipper fi ned over Buttler bust-up Ashwin six-for puts AFP the pavilion, forcing the um- Dhaka pires to immediately intervene. “The Bangladesh players overstepped in their celebration angladesh captain of Jos Buttler’s wicket, which Mashrafe Mortaza and prompted an inappropriate batsman Sabbir Rah- reaction from the dismissed man were fi ned 20% of batsman,” match referee Javagal India on track for theirB match fees yesterday for Srinath said in a ICC statement. an altercation with rival skip- “We all want to see high inten- per Jos Buttler in their team’s sity on the fi eld of play, but only victory over England in the as long as it is not provoking or second ODI. antagonising or disrespecting The International Cricket the opponent.” Council (ICC) also gave Buttler After the match, Buttler an offi cial warning for his reac- said he regretted his on-fi eld series whitewash tion to Mortaza and Sabbir’s reaction. “Emotions were run- celebrations following his dis- ning high and obviously (they missal after a TV review which were) delighted to get the ‘It is pretty special (five-for). It is very important for me to get into a good rhythm... proved to be pivotal in Sunday wicket. Maybe I should have night’s match in Dhaka. just walked off ... maybe it’s once I get into that good rhythm I think I can beat any batsman in the world’ After England made a poor something in the hindsight I start in their reply to Bangla- was disappointed with the re- desh’s total of 238-8, Buttler action... maybe I should have was threatening to turn the taken it up (in) a diff erent way,” India off -spinner Ravichandran Ashwin match on its head with a run- Buttler told reporters. took six wickets for 81 runs as New Zealand a-ball innings of 57 which was The ongoing three-match were bowled out for 299 yesterday. (AFP) ended in controversial fashion. ODI series is currently locked The on-fi eld umpire had at 1-1 after England won the initially turned down Taskin fi rst match by 21 runs and Ahmed’s lbw appeal against Bangladesh levelled with a 34- Buttler, but Bangladesh sought run win in the second match. a television review which con- Buttler was vague when fi rmed the ball hit him plumb asked if he believed the Bang- on his back foot and left Eng- ladeshi fi elders had crossed the land 123-7. line during their celebration The verdict triggered lively after his dismissal. “Potential- celebrations in the Bangladesh ly, I am sure you guys can judge camp, with several players ex- that for me,” he said. The third changing words with the bats- and fi nal ODI will be played in man as he made his way back to Chittagong tomorrow.

Bangladesh players exchange words with England’s Jos Buttler after his dismissal during the second ODI on Sunday. (Reuters)

FOCUS SA name uncapped spin duo for Oz tour

Reuters nerability to spin was exposed Cape Town on their recent tour of Sri Lan- AFP very important for me to get into a good came here last time” in 2012, said Ashwin. Scoreboard ka, pace bowling is likely to de- Indore rhythm... once I get into that good rhythm “He lunged forward and got out at slip. He cide the opening Test in Perth, I think I can beat any batsman in the just lunges outside off stump so that’s one India (1st innings) ...... 557-5 decl. ncapped spinners which is followed by matches world: that’s where I stand right now,” he thing I thought I would repeat in good cer- New Zealand (1st inngs; overnight 28/0) Keshav Maharaj and in Hobart and a day-nighter in ily off -spinner Ravichandran told reporters. tainty in the series.” M Guptill (run out) ...... 72 Tabraiz Shamsi were Adelaide. Ashwin backed himself yes- Opener Martin Guptill, who struck Neesham and BJ Watling put on 53 for T Latham c&b Ashwin ...... 53 yesterday named in Quick Morne Morkel returns terday to outfox any bats- form with a gritty 72, and James Neesham the sixth wicket to raise hopes of a reviv- SouthU Africa’s squad for next to the squad after missing the K Williamson b Ashwin ...... 8 man in the world after his six (71) put up the main resistance against an al, but left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja R Taylor c Rahane b Ashwin ...... 0 month’s three-match Test series New Zealand series through Wwickets in the third and fi nal Test against inspired Indian attack. broke the stand by bowling Watling for in Australia as the Proteas seek injury although his selection L Ronchi c Rahane b Ashwin ...... 0 New Zealand put India in pole position to The Black Caps, who began the day on 23 after the wicketkeeper-batsman had J Neesham lbw Ashwin ...... 71 to exploit a perceived weakness- is subject to his successfully complete a whitewash. 28 without loss, had made a strong start struck four boundaries. BJ Watling c Rahane b Jadeja ...... 23 es in their hosts’ batting. coming through a domes- Ashwin, who is the leading wicket- in response to India’s commanding fi rst Neesham carried on the good work af- M Santner c Kohli b Jadeja ...... 22 Faf du Plessis will again tic competition match which taker in the series with 20 dismissals, innings score of 557 for fi ve declared, but ter tea to register his fourth Test fi fty in J Patel (run out) ...... 18 captain the team in the absence starts in Port Elizabeth today. was again the standout performer as the then lost fi ve wickets for just 30 runs. 10 games but ran out of steam after being M Henry (not out) ...... 15 of injured AB de Villiers after Dean Elgar also returns from hosts bowled out the tourists for 299 and After Tom Latham fell just before lunch trapped lbw by Ashwin, who soon wiped T Boult c Pujara b Ashwin ...... 0 leading the side in the two-Test injury while another uncapped secured a 258-run lead on day three of for 53, caught and bowled by Ashwin, In- out the tail. Extras (b-6, lb-5, w-1, pen-5) ...... 17 series against New Zealand last player, Rilee Rossouw, has been the match. dia turned the screws on the visitors by “I think New Zealand has defi nitely Total (all out, 90.2 overs) ...... 299 month, which they won 1-0. added as a specialist batsman. India, who did not enforce the follow- taking a further fi ve wickets in the after- batted well. They have been in the game Fall of wickets: 1-118 (Latham), 2-134 (Wil- “Basically, we are following Dane Vilas will again travel as on, were 18 for no loss in their second noon session. more than any other team has been liamson), 3-140 (Taylor), 4-148 (Guptill), a horses for courses policy as the second wicketkeeper be- innings at stumps, with Murali Vijay (11) Guptill counter-attacked with 10 fours when they toured here,” said Ashwin, 5-148 (Ronchi), 6-201 (Watling), 7-253 we feel that spinners who turn hind Quinton de Kock after and Cheteshwar Pujara (1) stretching the and two sixes during his 144-ball stay but praising the fi ghting quality of the opposi- (Santner), 8-276 (Neesham), 9-294 (Patel), the ball away from the right- making his debut in Bangla- lead to 276. was unlucky to be run out by Ashwin while tion batsmen. 10-299 (Boult) hander are going to be particu- desh last year. Opener Gautam Gambhir retired hurt backing up. Indian skipper Virat Kohli had played Bowling: Shami 13-1-40-0, Yadav 15-1-55-0, larly useful under Australian South Africa and Australia on six after aggravating a shoulder injury, Ashwin’s other victims included New a vital role Sunday with a career-best 211, Ashwin 27.2-5-81-6, Jadeja 28-5-80-2, Vijay conditions and against the test conclude their fi ve-match ODI which he fi rst suff ered while fi elding, as he Zealand skipper Kane Williamson, who his second double-century in Tests. 7-0-27-0 batsmen we are likely to face,” series in Cape Town tomorrow dived into his crease to avoid a run-out. was bowled for eight after dragging a turn- Kohli’s record 365-run fourth-wicket India (2nd innings) selector Linda Zondi said in a with South Africa leading 4-0. Earlier, Ashwin ensured that India ing delivery onto his stumps. stand with Ajinkya Rahane (188) was the M Vijay (batting) ...... 11 statement. “I am excited about They will play three Tests in continued their domination of the se- It was the third time in a row that the highlight of India’s fi rst innings after the G Gambhir (retired hurt) ...... 6 the cover we have in this area Australia, with the fi rst match ries at their newest Test venue, Indore’s Black Caps’ star batsman had been dis- hosts elected to bat fi rst. C Pujara (batting) ...... 1 with a wrist spinner and a left- starting in Perth on November Holkar Stadium, after recording his 20th missed by Ashwin. India, who took an unassailable 2-0 lead Total (0 wicket, 6 overs)...... 18 arm orthodox spinner with JP 3, the second starting in Ho- fi ve-wicket haul to destroy the New Zea- “I came into the series with a plan, es- in Kolkata, are looking to complete their Fall of wicket: 0-11* (Gambhir retired hurt) Duminy able to off er the right- bart from November 12, and land batting. pecially taking off from where Kane Wil- second successive home series whitewash Bowling: Boult 3-0-9-0, Patel 2-0-8-0, arm variety as well.” the fi nal match to be played in “It is pretty special (fi ve-for). It is liamson got out in Bangalore when they against New Zealand. Santner 1-0-1-0 Although Australia’s vul- Adelaide from November 24.

BOTTOMLINE Hughes inquest told ‘no intervention’ could have saved his life

AFP The death of the 25-year-old, who some of his family leaving the room. that day but the players involved did din told the inquest. Sydney had risen through the ranks to play for Fellow cricketers and medical staff not believe he had been unfairly tar- Coroner Barnes is examining the his country, stunned Australia and the raced to help but Stern noted that the geted. There were also concerns about manner and cause of Hughes’ death world cricket community, sparking an fi rst person to call for an ambulance whether players had engaged in sledg- and also has jurisdiction to make rec- he death of Australian crick- outpouring of grief. was unaware of the severity of the in- ing — insulting or verbally baiting him ommendations, particularly in the in- eter Phillip Hughes was In her opening address, the counsel jury and that it took about an hour to — during play. terest of public health and safety. The likely “inevitable” after he was assisting the coroner, Kristina Stern, get Hughes to hospital. Under questioning, bowler Doug fi ndings may come on Friday, but could struck by a ball, an inquest said Hughes had been excited about But she said none of that seemed to Bollinger did not recall telling Hughes or take weeks. Theard yesterday as it raised concerns playing that day, with his mother and have had an eff ect on his death which his batting partner that “I’m going to kill An independent review into the about on-fi eld sledging and short, fast sister in the stands, as he worked to re- “appears to have been inevitable from you”, as suggested by counsel for Hugh- death, ordered by Cricket Australia, deliveries. gain a place on the national team. the point of impact”. es’ family Greg Melick. “I know in my has already recommended that hel- Hughes, who played 26 Tests, died He had opened the batting for South Nor did there appear to be any de- heart I didn’t say that,” Bollinger said. mets be made compulsory for batsmen from bleeding on the brain in Novem- Australia in the domestic Sheffi eld fect in the helmet he was wearing, giv- Former Australia wicketkeeper and fi elders near the wicket. ber 2014 after being hit on the neck by Shield match against New South Wales en that the area in which he was hit was Brad Haddin, who was captaining New A spokesman for the Hughes family, a rising ball while batting in a domestic and was playing well. But he tried unprotected, she said. South Wales that day, said while he did his former manager James Henderson, match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. to hook a delivery from Sean Abbott At the hospital, Hughes underwent not see where the ball hit Hughes, the admitted that it would be a “very, very, “Quite clearly the death was a terri- which hit him in the neck, causing him scans and surgery but died two days event was “something I’ve never wit- very diffi cult week” for the relatives. ble accident,” coroner Michael Barnes to step to the side before collapsing to later on November 27, 2014. nessed before in my life”. “They’re hoping that perhaps there said at the opening of the fi ve-day in- the ground face fi rst. Stern said that concerns had been “It was the noise. The groan. The will be (something) positive come out quest. “But that does not mean that Footage of the blow and Hughes’ raised about the number of short balls way he fell straight down, motionless of Phillip’s death as we go through cricket cannot be made safer.” collapse was played in court, with delivered by fast bowlers to Hughes without trying to break the fall,” Had- this,” he said. Gulf Times 6 Tuesday, October 11, 2016 TENNIS

SPOTLIGHT Australia hope Kyrgios has turned corner aft er Japan Open win

Melbourne: Melbourne’s no- toriously changeable weather threatened to wash out the soft launch of the Australian Open Novak’s back, but is he yesterday but the rain was unable to dampen the cheer among tournament organisers enthused by Nick Kyrgios’s weekend victory in Japan. The tempestuous 21-year-old, Australia’s brightest hope of a men’s grand slam champion since still Shanghai Master? twice winner Lleyton Hewitt, clinched the Japan Open on Sun- day with an impressive win over ‘I neither want to think nor to talk about the number one position, nor to win tournaments or Grand Slams’ rising Belgian David Goff in. For a player who professes no love for tennis and has admitted AFP to being “a little bit soft”, Kyrgios Shanghai Serbia’s Novak Djokovic hits a shot during a training has won all three of his titles this session at the Shanghai Masters in Shanghai. (AFP) season, his latest in Tokyo the biggest of a still fledgling ovak Djokovic returns from career. injury at this week’s Shang- Kyrgios clobbered 25 aces hai Masters with the eyes of past Goff in but a more telling the tennis world on his form statistic might have been the Nand motivation as his world number zero tantrums committed by the one spot comes under threat from hot-headed Australian during the Andy Murray. tense three-setter. The Serb has been a peerless per- The prospect of a fit, in-form and former in China, and when he won his happy Kyrgios making a deep run third Shanghai Masters title last year at the Australian Open would be a he was putting the fi nishing touches dream outcome for the tourna- on one of the best tennis seasons in ment’s organisers but not one history. they were willing to indulge out But since completing a career loud on Monday, lest the wish not Grand Slam at the French Open in come true. June, it has been a troubled period for “It’s a long journey; it’s a long- the 12-time major winner who admit- term journey when it comes to ted he had lost his love for the game. Nick,” a wary Tennis Australia Djokovic fell in Wimbledon’s third CEO Craig Tiley said after being round and, tearfully, in the fi rst round soaked by a spring shower at at the Rio Olympics, before going the tournament’s launch near down to his bete noire Stan Wawrinka Melbourne Park. in the US Open fi nal. “But he’s certainly, we’ve felt, The Serb, who has spoken of “pri- more recently turned the corner. vate issues”, quit his usual residence “But his performances this past in Monte Carlo to return to his native week has been tremendous in Belgrade, revealing that he wasn’t winning his third professional “very well at an emotional level”. title. “I neither want to think nor to talk “And that’s fairly remarkable. about the number one position, nor There’s a lot of pressure on him. to win tournaments or Grand Slams,” We do what we can. We have a Djokovic told reporters in the Serbian long-term view of it.” capital. Easing the pressure on Kyrgios Wrist problems hampered him in has almost become a mantra in New York. He then pulled out of this It would be completely understand- Australia, where a litany of former month’s China Open in Beijing, where able to have those feelings. I’m sure a players, coaches and pundits he was unbeaten in four appearances, lot of players have experienced that at Murray targets ‘strong’ year-end to topple Djokovic have previously off ered a mixture with an elbow injury. diff erent stages after big wins in their of well-intentioned advice and Djokovic will need to get quickly career. I think it’s quite normal.” Beijing: Andy Murray took Novak history — and so now has to defend Konta is now in Hong Kong to try to blunt criticism. back into his stride as Murray, fresh One possible obstacle in Djokovic’s Djokovic’s China Open crown at the those ranking points whereas cap a stunning rise over the last 15 Most, if not all of the feedback, from succeeding the Serb as the China half of the draw is Rafael Nadal, al- weekend, but that’s not all that the Murray only has points to bank to months from 146th to ninth with her has been summarily dismissed Open champion late on Sunday, bears though the 14-time Grand Slam-win- Scot is after as he closes in on the further reduce the 3,005-point gap first appearance at the WTA Finals and its purveyors ridiculed on down on him in the rankings. ner is fi ghting to prove he’s still a force Serb’s number one ranking. to Djokovic. in Singapore, which features the Kyrgios’s social media accounts. at the top of the game. The second-ranked Scot is looking to In a year that also saw him become season’s top eight players. But where other would-be men- ‘Completely understandable’ With two titles to his name this close the points gap to Djokovic and a father for the first time, Murray “She finished last year extremely tors have failed, Hewitt, Australia’s Murray beat Grigor Dimitrov 6-4, year, plus fourth place at the Rio Ol- cap a career-best season by topping bagged both his second Wimbledon well and kind of showed that she Davis Cup captain, has proved the 7-6 (7/2) for his fi fth title of the year ympics, the 30-year-old Spaniard is the rankings for the first time. crowns and Olympic gold medals. had the potential to get there with most successful in coaxing the after already winning his second heading for his smallest trophy haul in Murray made a convincing start to He also reached the final of the the wins that she was having. prickly young talent back into the Wimbledon crown and becoming the a season since 2004. that campaign in Beijing, storming Australian and French Opens, but “But it’s not easy to do it over a national fold. fi rst back-to-back Olympic cham- Australia’s often-controversial through the tournament without missed out on a second consecutive 12-month period,” Murray said of The 35-year-old’s unwavering pion. Nick Kyrgios comes to Shanghai in hot dropping a set. Davis Cup win when Great Britain Konta. defence of Kyrgios, warts and all, Murray had sympathy for Djokovic, form after winning his third tourna- He beat Grigor Dimitrov to claim his lost to Argentina in the semi-finals. “It’s exciting to see kind of how far was rewarded when the player his contemporary and sparring part- ment of the season at the Japan Open fifth title of the year, and take him As Murray aims to become the first she’s going to be able to go.” pledged himself for Davis Cup ner since their teenage years, saying on Sunday. 1,000 points closer to Djokovic’s British man to reach number one, duty and helped Australia retain his loss of motivation was “completely And ‘Stanimal’ Wawrinka, the long-held number one spot. he is already writing history with its place in the World Group with understandable”. world number three and US Open “It’s very positive leading into Johanna Konta. a playoff win over Slovakia last “A lot of players have gone through champion, is returning to action after Shanghai, and hopefully I can finish The 25-year-old Sydney-born Briton month. that. It can happen at diff erent stages,” losing the St. Petersburg fi nal to Ger- the year strong,” Murray said in broke into the top 10 with her run to “He’s definitely been better, no said the 29-year-old second seed. many’s Alexander Zverev, 19. Beijing. the final at her maiden appearance doubt,” said Hewitt when asked “When you achieve something that Zverev, dubbed “the future of ten- Djokovic wasn’t in the Chinese capi- at the China Open — the first British whether Kyrgios had become you’ve wanted to achieve for such a nis” by Wawrinka, continued his up- tal to defend his China Open crown, woman since Jo Durie in 1984 to mature. long time and put so much eff ort and ward trajectory on Monday when he having pulled out with an elbow achieve that feat. “He was fantastic at the Davis Cup thought into that, and come close a overpowered America’s John Isner injury, but both are playing at this It is also the first time since compu- tie in Sydney. number of times and not quite done it, 6-4, 6-2 in the fi rst round. week’s Shanghai Masters. terised rankings were introduced “He’s made Davis Cup a massive I think when you fi nally do it, you feel Ninth seed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, last The Serb also won in Shanghai last that a British man and woman are priority going in to next year... and incredible for a number of days after- year’s beaten fi nalist, romped into the year — another trophy in what was ranked in the top 10 at the same he is ready to stand up and be the wards. second round with a 6-3, 6-2 win over one of the best seasons in tennis time. leader of our Davis Cup team.” “But there can be a low after that. German’s Florian Mayer.

FOCUS Sharapova to test comeback waters in Las Vegas

AFP love to see — and if anyone could it will still be hard to come back for Los Angeles show me — is evidence on the per- Maria. But we know how tough she formance-enhancing eff ect that is...” it has,” she told the US sports net- Wawrinka joins Nadal in aria Sharapova, tar- work. Brisbane International geting an April return Sharapova’s initial 24-month Brisbane: Swiss world No.3 Stan to the WTA after the ban for testing positive for meldo- Wawrinka will use the Brisbane In- reduction of her dop- nium was cut to 15 months by the ternational as his warm-up event Ming ban, will try to start sharpening Court of Arbitration for Sport last to the Australian Open in Janu- her game on Monday in the friendly Tuesday. ary, tournament organisers said confi nes of a charity event in Las That CAS decision divided opin- yesterday. Vegas. ion among her peers. The US Open champion will join The Russian superstar will play “I can’t believe it actually,” Aus- 14-time Grand Slam winner Rafael in the World Team Tennis Smash tralian Samantha Stosur said at a Nadal and women’s world No.1 An- Hits event at Caesars Palace, which tournament in Hong Kong, calling gelique Kerber at the year-opening is hosted by Billie Jean King and El- it “remarkable” that Sharapova’s tournament. ton John for the benefi t of the Elton ban was reduced on the argument Wawrinka heads to Brisbane John Aids Foundation. she didn’t realize a drug she’d long after beating Novak Djokovic for Her appearance alongside such used had been added to the banned his third Grand Slam title in New stars as Martina Navratilova and list. York and reaching his highest-ever Andy Roddick will delight her le- Stosur, in comments reported in ranking behind the Serb and Briton gion of fans, who remain faithful Tennis Magazine, said she thought Andy Murray. despite the controversy Sharapova most WTA players felt the same. “I’m excited to be heading to the stirred last week with her charge “So I wouldn’t imagine there’s a Brisbane International for the fi rst that the International Tennis Fed- whole lot of support from the play- time in my career,” Wawrinka said eration wanted to make an example ing group,” the Aussie said. in a statement. of her in her doping case. But fi ve-time Grand Slam cham- “I’ve heard such great things “I got a 24-month suspension, pion Sharapova can likely expect about the event and it feels like the but they (the ITF) wanted four years a warm welcome in Las Vegas, right time to change up the start of for me,” Sharapova said in an inter- where she’ll arrive after a stop-off my season.” view with US broadcaster PBS, a in Henderson, Nevada, to promote Wawrinka will be chasing his claim ITF offi cials denied. her candy company Sugarpova. second Australian Open crown af- In the same media off ensive last “Important to put this behind us ter beating Nadal in the 2014 Mel- week, Sharapova indicated to ESPN for tennis and Maria,” King tweeted bourne fi nal. she wasn’t convinced the drug mel- after Sharapova’s ban was reduced. Apart from Kerber, the Bris- donium, newly banned this year by “Look forward to her return to bane International, from January the World Anti-Doping Agency, the WTA Tour@wta.” 1-8, will also feature French Open enhances performance. Navratilova added on Twitter: champion Garbine Muguruza of “I think the one thing that I’d “A big price to pay for a big mistake, Spain in the women’s draw. Gulf Times Tuesday, October 11, 2016 7 GOLF

SPOTLIGHT Tiger enters the unknown under competitive spotlight ‘It was diff icult missing tournaments that are important to me, but this time I was smart about my recovery and didn’t rush it’

Reuters Los Angeles

o one, and in all likelihood not even Tiger Woods himself, can know how the former world number one will fare as he makes his much antici- Npated PGA Tour return at this week’s Safeway Open in Napa, California. After spending over a year on the sidelines while retooling his game following his recovery from back surgeries, Woods will be testing himself under the harsh glare of competition in three tournaments before the year-end. The 14-times major champion has not played on the PGA Tour since August 2015, having undergone surgeries in September and again in October of that year due to ongoing back problems. Now in the twilight of his career at the age of 40, Woods knows full well that time is not on his side as he strives to get his game back into competitive shape. “It was diffi cult missing tournaments that are important to me, but this time I was smart about my recovery and didn’t rush it,” Woods said after announcing his plans to compete in Napa. “I still have work to do.” The greatest player of his generation and arguably of all time, Woods has not won a tournament anywhere since 2013 and his ti- tle drought in the major championships dates back to 2008. NBC commentator Johnny Miller, a dou- ble major champion who is tournament host of the Safeway Open, believes the Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa is an ideal venue for Woods. “There is nothing funky about it,” Miller said on Golf Channel. “It’s a very straightforward course, sort of his kind of course. A lot like Torrey Pines. Miller, who had to “get back to basics” af- ter a lengthy slump during his playing career, advised Woods to keep it simple before add- ing: “Forget maybe trying to kill the ball off the tee. If he can put it in play and just let his irons do the talking.” Mental game expert Dr Joe Parent, who Vi- jay Singh and Cristie Kerr reach top spot in the world rankings, believes Woods’ biggest challenge will be regaining suffi cient confi - dence in his fi tness and his swing. “The challenge is coming back from so many injuries and surgeries,” Parent told Re- uters. “There’s a subtle subconscious ‘won- dering what will trigger the next one’, and any time there’s a hint of ‘protecting’ in a golf swing, the shots start to go sideways.” Excitement and cautious expectations from Tiger’s peers Factfi le on Tiger Tiger Woods’ peers are excited about ranking plummeted to tournaments for him, but hopefully The Northern Irishman, who like beaten by the American but realised the former world number one’s PGA 767th. “I’m looking forward to seeing he gets it back pretty quickly and he Woods spends a lot of time in the he was playing in a special era. Els TIGER WOODS (USA) Tour return this week after a lengthy him play again, seeing what the state can get back closer to the old gym, fervently hoped the American said he would love to see woods Born: December 30, 1975 absence, but most of them have of his game is,” said Australia’s world ways.” could remain healthy in what is shap- competing regularly, though he was Birthplace: Cypress, California, USA expressed caution when it comes to number one Jason Day. Four-times major winner Rory ing up as the final chapter in career. wary of expecting too much. Height: 6-feet-1 (1.85m) expectations of how he will perform. “This time I think he’s done it the McIlroy was also happy to see Woods “Everyone’s excited to have him “Let’s be realistic,” the four-times Turned Professional: 1996 Woods, 40 has not competed on the right way by waiting and not coming not rushing back into competition. back,” said McIlroy. major winner told Reuters. Career US PGA Tour wins: 79 PGA Tour since August 2015, spend- back too soon.” “He was probably pretty close to “Hopefully he can get back on the “His winning percentage out here Major titles — 14 (Masters: 1997, 2001, 2002, ing most of his time since then re- Day, who has received a lot of golf making a comeback earlier on this course, stay healthy for a prolonged was (close to) 30 percent. That’s just 2005; US Open 2000, 2002, 2008; British covering from back surgeries before advice from Woods in recent years, year, but I think he’s learned from period of time and give it one last phenomenal. Open 2000, 2005, 2006; PGA Champion- slowly increasing his work rate in a was wary of forecasting too much previous years that you have to re- go.” Englishman Paul Casey felt it would ship 1999, 2000, 2006, 2007) bid to sharpen his game. from the 14-times major champion. ally take time to let things heal and “He’s the man, until he says he’s not be foolish to discount woods’ PGA Tour Player of the Year: 11 (1997, 1999- Since the end of 2013, he has com- “It’s always tough to come back, even really be a hundred % before getting (competing any more),” Australia’s chances of being a dominant force 2003, 2005-2007, 2009, 2013) peted in only 18 PGA Tour events though you’re one of the greatest of back out here,” said McIlroy. former world number one Adam once again. PGA Tour Money Leader: 10 (1997, 1999- while being blighted by injuries and all time,” said the 28-year-old “It will be great to see him back Scott said. “From what I’ve seen him do, I would 2002, 2005-2007, 2009, 2013) poor form, recording one top-10 dur- Day. again. He brings an aura and an South African Ernie Els, who was in never rule him out from accomplish- Highest World Ranking: 1 (record 683 ing that period along with six missed “It’s very diff icult to get that sharp- atmosphere to a tournament that no the peak of his career at the same ing anything he wants to accom- weeks) cuts and three withdrawals as his ness back. It should take a few one else in golf can bring.” time as woods, got tired of being plish,” said Casey.

FOCUS Olazabal to return at British Masters aft er 18 months out

Reuters London

wice major champion Jose Maria Olazabal has con- fi rmed he will play at the British Masters this week, his fi rst appearance on the European Tour for 18 months. TThe Spaniard, who captained Europe to Ryder Cup glory at the “miracle of Medinah” in 2012, has been out of action due to the rheumatoid arthritis he has suff ered from through- out his 31-year career. Olazabal’s last competitive round was at the US Masters in April 2015, and the 50-year-old said he would head for the Portugal Masters if all went well in his fi rst appearance at The Grove since 2004. “I want to see how the body can cope with the regular com- petition, rhythm of practice and 18 holes,” he told the Euro- pean Tour website. (www.europeantour.com) “The two weeks at the British Masters and Portugal Mas- ters will be a good test to see if I can stand up all day.” Olazabal, US Masters winner in 1994 and 1999, described the diffi culties he faced during his battle back to tness. fi “The problem is due to an infl ammation of the extremi- ties of the tendons, and it’s been a long process of recovery. I hit rock bottom last December and started improving slowly from January,” he added. “Although I’m feeling better, I’m still not at a 100%. The pain is not so bad now, it gets a bit painful from time to time but I think that’s just getting old!” Gulf Times 8 Tuesday, October 11, 2016 SPORT

BASEBALL ANALYSIS Rangers victims of Jays return to ALCS their own success aft er clean sweep of

Texas Rangers relief pitcher Jake Diekman walks back to the dugout Rangers with 7-6 win after being relieved in the 6th inning against the Toronto Blue Jays. MCT essentially meant the Rangers Toronto had fi ve days off before opening ‘We came out and executed well. They took advantage of some of our mistakes and this series. The break seemed to dull the club’s edge. we took advantage of some of their mistakes. It was a back and forth battle’ n the end, the Rangers were a “I don’t know that,” third base- victim of their success. man Adrian Beltre said. “We did The team with the best have days off in between. But it’s regular season record in the tough to tell. That’s not an excuse.” IAmerican League was uncere- Manager Jeff Banister, speak- moniously swept out of the play- ing beforehand, did not accept the off s on Sunday night. Toronto, theory that the layoff hurt his club. with Josh Donaldson scoring on a “That’s the easy point to look mad dash from second, eliminat- at,” Banister said. “Ah-ha, those ed the Rangers with a 7-6 win in days off ., it’s tough. 10 innings at the Rogers Centre, “There comes a time when the same spot where the Rangers’ you’ve got to look at the other season ended a year ago. players performing, too. What it The Rangers became only the comes down to is those guys have third team since 2000 to have performed well. They capitalized the league’s top regular-season on our mistakes.” record and not win a postseason The Rangers started to wake up game. The Los Angeles Angels in during the Game 2 loss on Friday. 2014 and the Chicago White Sox The almost-comatose Rangers in 2000 suff ered the same fate. trailed 5-1 after six innings. In the The best-record designation next three innings, they put pres- has become more of a burden sure on the Jays and had the lead or than a reward. tying run on base in each inning. From 2000-15, the club with Toronto manager John Gib- the best record in its league had bons gritted his teeth and used a better chance of being bounced closer Roberto Osuna for the fi nal in the division-series round than fi ve outs. That was the last thing reaching the World Series. Gibbons wanted to do. Osuna In that span, the club with the came out of the wild-card game best league in the league made on Tuesday because of “shoulder eight trips to the World Series and fatigue.” won fi ve times. Kansas City ac- Banister admitted that in complished the feat last season. those fi nal three innings, his club The polar opposite happened “found a little bit of rhythm with more often. A total of 16 clubs our off ense.” that had the best record for the That was the only sign of con- regular season went out in the sistent off ense by the Rangers divisional round. St. Louis suf- for the series. In the opener, the fered that fate last season. Rangers had only one at-bat with Like most teams with the top a runner in scoring position. record, the Rangers did not have In Game 2, the Rangers were to take on a challenger during the unable to get the vital hit. They home stretch. went 2-for-18 with runners in They clinched the AL West ti- scoring position. In playoff his- tle with eight games to play. They tory, no team had ever had as guaranteed home-fi eld advan- many at-bats with runners in tage with two games to play. That scoring position and as few hits.

Burgess in Bennett’s England Four Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Josh Donaldson (20) celebrates after scoring the winning run past Texas Rangers catcher Jonathan Lucroy (25) in the 10th inning. Nations squad

AFP “It was a back and forth battle. We “That is the best ground ball to short I “I think I hit it really good,” Lobaton Sam Burgess was included Castleford’s Luke Gale and St Los Angeles were able to get the last one.” have ever hit,” Martin said. said. “When it went out it was like, ‘That yesterday in the 24-man Helens duo Jonny Lomax and With the score tied 6-6 with one out “We are built to be resilient. We’ve is pretty cool.’ I think everyone is going to England squad announced Mark Percival. and runners on fi rst and second, Cana- been through a lot this year. We didn’t let feel good (going to Los Angeles). That is by coach Wayne Bennett for “To have Sam Burgess back is osh Donaldson made a mad dash dian Russell Martin started the play with them get to us. It wasn’t pretty, but we what we wanted.” the Four Nations tournament not just a boost for England from second base to score the win- a ground ball to shortstop Elvis Andrus. got it done.” Lobaton, starting because regular which gets underway later but one for the international ning run in extra innings as the To- The ball was fl ipped to Odor and the Odor and Andrus homered for the catcher Wilson Ramos is out for the rest this month. game,” said Bennett. ronto Blue Jays advanced to their Rangers appeared to have a routine dou- Rangers. of the season with a torn knee ligament, It was the first time the “There’s some serious talent secondJ straight American League Cham- ble play in the making but Odor bungled In the other playoff game played Sun- last hit a post-season home run in 2013, 27-year-old, now in his second in this English side,” he added pionship Series on Sunday. the throw to fi rst base. day, Jose Lobaton belted a three-run when he was playing for Tampa Bay. spell at Australian NRL side of a squad also featuring The Blue Jays completed their fi rst se- That allowed Donaldson to charge homer and Daniel Murphy drove in two Winning pitcher Blake Treinen retired South Sydney, had been Burgess’s brothers George ries sweep in franchise history with a 7-6 home from second. runs as the Washington Nationals beat all four batters he faced, lefty Oliver Pe- included in a national rugby and Thomas. victory over Texas on a winning run that His head-fi rst slide beat the throw the Los Angeles Dodgers 5-2 to knot their rez retired both batters he saw in the league squad since returning “I’ve always said that there was set up by an error from Rangers sec- from Rangers Mitch Moreland. series at one game apiece. eighth and closer Mark Melancon pitched from rugby union last year, wouldn’t be too many changes ond baseman Rougned Odor in the bot- Donaldson reached second earlier in Lobaton went deep on a curveball from the ninth for the save. having made his way into the and there are plenty of guys in tom of the 10th. the inning with a line drive to centre fi eld. Dodgers starting pitcher Rich Hill in the The contest was postponed from Sat- England squad knocked out in the squad who worked hard in “We came out and executed well. They “I tried to get a pitch, and I was able to fourth inning to give the Nationals a 3-2 urday, so the teams will have a quick the first round of the 15-man last year’s series win against took advantage of some of our mistakes take advantage of a pitch that stayed over lead. turnaround to game three in Los Angeles code’s 2015 World Cup. New Zealand who have gone and we took advantage of some of their plate,” Donaldson said. He smacked the two-out shot into the yesterday. Veteran Australian coach Ben- on and performed in 2016.” mistakes,” Donaldson said of the win in Edwin Encarnacion and Martin homer- Dodgers’s bullpen in left fi eld after Mur- The winners of the series will face ei- nett selected four uncapped England have yet to win the front of a crowd of 49,500 at Toronto’s ed for the Blue Jays, who took the best-of- phy drew a leadoff walk and Danny Es- ther the Chicago Cubs or San Francisco players in Hull’s Scott Taylor, Four Nations. Rogers Centre. fi ve Major League Baseball series 3-0. pinosa was hit by a pitch with two outs. Giants for a World Series berth.

NFL Giants’ off ensive woes continue in loss to Packers MCT reception and Sterling Shepard had just After the Giants cut it to a touch- the most glaring example of the latter, Green Bay, Wisconsin two catches for 14 yards. down game late, Trevin Wade slipped but the Giants were fl agged six times It took until 2:54 remained in the in coverage to allow Cobb to catch a for 51 yards in the fi rst half. Even after game for the Giants to score their fi rst 13-yard pass on third-and-10 to lead to Janoris Jenkins registered the fi rst de- en McAdoo said the Giants touchdown of the game, an 8-yard pass the two-minute warning. A play earlier fensive takeaway of the season with an were due for a “break out.” All to Odell Beckham Jr. in the back of the James Starks had fumbled into the arms interception on the fi nal play of the fi rst they gave him were the same end zone to make it 23-16. It was Man- of Kelvin Sheppard, but the running quarter, the Giants were called for an old breakdowns. ning’s fi rst touchdown throw since the back grabbed the ball back to recover it illegal hit on the return, a holding call BDespite facing a Packers defense that fi rst half of the Washington game. and keep it away from the Giants for the on the fi rst snap after the pick, and a came into the game ranked 27th in pass- Meanwhile, the rest of the NFC East rest of the game. false start later in the drive that forced ing yards allowed and playing without continues to roll along. Dallas and The Giants trailed 17-6 at halftime. It them to punt the ball away without any either of their starting cornerbacks, the Washington won earlier in the day (the could have been worse, but it also could points. Giants’ supposed high-powered attack Eagles lost their fi rst game of the sea- have been a lot better. Jennings’ second interception at the was unable to exhibit any sign of po- son) and the Giants (2-3) took sole pos- They closed to within one score when Packers 40 led to the fi eld goal that tency. Instead, Eli Manning had to rush session of last place in the division. Josh Brown kicked a 41-yard fi eld goal to made it 14-6. Odell Beckham Jr. caught his throws because of pressure from the It wasn’t all off ense. The winded make it 14-6 with 1:51 left, then forced three passes for 42 yards in the fi rst half Packers defense, the receivers could defense could not get off the eldfi in the Packers to punt after they took just but Victor Cruz and Sterling Shepard never manage to get behind a second- the fourth quarter, allowing a 17-yard 13 seconds off the clock. After Will Tye were held without a fi rst-half catch de- ary that lacked stars but was stacked up screen pass to Randall Cobb on third- dropped a seam pass that would have spite the Packers playing without their with bodies, and the Giants lost their and-9 from the 21 a play after rookie gone for an easy 60-yard touchdown, two starting cornerbacks. third straight game, this one 23-16 to safety Andrew Adams let an intercep- Manning was pressured to his left and The Giants cut it to 17-9 with 5:26 the Packers at Lambeau Field. tion go through his hands, let fullback sacked by Kyler Fackrell, losing the ball left in the third quarter on a 30-yard Manning completed just 18 of 35 Aaron Ripkowski carry the entire unit on the way to the turf. Kenny Clark re- fi eld goal. A screen pass to Paul Perkins passes for 199 yards with only one pass 13 yards on a third-and-1, then al- covered for the Packers with 1:15 left at brought the Giants to the 11, but Man- for over 20 yards. He didn’t throw an lowed a fi eld goal that gave the Packers the Giants’ 31. The Packers were able to ning was sacked from behind as Ereck interception but coughed up a critical (3-1) a 23-9 lead with 6:39 remaining. kick a fi eld goal as time expired in the Flowers whiff ed while trying to block fumble in the second quarter. The Gi- The drive ate up 6:22 and also cost the half to go ahead 17-6. Nick Perry and the Giants never came ants off ense managed just 219 yards and Giants a timeout when McAdoo chal- The half was what has become typi- close to the end zone. The Packers ex- converted just four of 13 third downs. Green Bay Packers linebacker Kyler Fackrell (51) and linebacker Clay Matthews lenged a reception on the sideline by cal Giants football, defi ned by penalties tended their lead to 20-9 with 13:46 Victor Cruz was shutout without a (52) celebrate following an interception against the New York Giants. Jordy Nelson that was upheld. and turnovers. Manning’s fumble was left in the fourth. Gulf Times Tuesday, October 11, 2016 9 MOTORSPORT

FOCUS Hamilton’s title hopes not over yet: Mercedes

By Paul Weaver at Suzuka If Hamilton needs enemies he childish and stupid.” The Guardian should be in good shape because he Formula One is desperately in need made plenty more with his petulant of promotion and it would be interest- behaviour in Suzuka. It started to go ing to see what the American company ercedes insist that their wrong for him on Thursday when he Liberty Media, who are expected to troubled driver Lewis made a mockery of the offi cial FIA complete their takeover of the sport Hamilton can still take the press conference by playing with the next year, would make of their star Formula One season to the smartphone app Snapchat. turn refusing to engage in media con- Mwire despite another diffi cult weekend When he was roundly pilloried for ferences. at Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix. that, he compounded his mistake two Meanwhile the Red Bull team prin- His teammate Nico Rosberg won for days later when he walked out of a press cipal, Christian Horner, like Wolff , be- the ninth time this season to extend his conference without taking any ques- lieves the season is far from over. championship lead to 33 points with tions. Then, after the race, he appeared “You see sportsmen get on a crest four races to go. Hamilton, who has not to overrule a decision by his Mercedes of a wave and it is all going Nico’s way won a race since July, was third and the to appeal against the driving of Max while Lewis has had quite a few tough destiny of the title is now beyond his Verstappen late in Sunday’s race. races now. control. A week earlier, in Malaysia, he had “He will brush himself down, I am But Mercedes’ head of motor sport, risked “losing the dressing room” at sure. He only needs a sniff of some- Toto Wolff , says Hamilton can still win Mercedes when he said that there was thing – a DNF (non-fi nish) for Nico because he can take positives from his someone who didn’t want him to win and a win for Lewis and he is right back setbacks and that “he needs the enemy”. the title – his engine had blown when in the game again. Things can change “Thirty-three points is a lot, but you he was 15 laps away from a certain so, so quickly. can see how quick it goes. It’s not over looking victory. “We saw it with Kimi (Raikkonen) – there’s four weekends to go. Lewis The much respected Sky TV com- when he stole the championship from functions best when he is under pres- mentator Martin Brundle spoke for under the noses of Lewis and Fern- sure and has a target. He will regroup. many in Japan when he said: “Instead ando (Alonso, in 2007). There are still He is very strong and he needs the ene- of focusing on the world champion- 100 points to play for and it would be my – sometimes more than one. I think ship, he seems to be focusing on an a foolish man to rule Lewis out at this it will go to the end,” Wolff said. app that puts bunny ears on people. It’s stage,” Horner said.

SPOTLIGHT Champion Buemi wins Formula E season opener in Hong Kong eigning champion Sebastien Buemi won an Rincident-packed opening race of the Formula E season in Despite closing in on Hong Kong on Sunday for the Renault e.dams team. The Swiss, who started fifth, made the most of an earlier than scheduled pit-stop while the safety car was deployed to triumph in the first ePrix to be held in Hong Kong. Brazilian Lucas Di Grassi, for title, Rosberg keeps Audi Abt, made up 17 places after starting from the back row of the grid to finish second while Ger- many’s Nick Heidfeld was third for India’s Mahindra team. The podium was a repeat of last season’s opener in Beijing. Formula E, the world’s first the champagne on ice all-electric car racing series, is now starting its third season with several new venues, teams ‘The best reasoning is that it’s actually working quite well. So why change something if it’s going quite well? The and drivers. Newcomers Jaguar, returning approach that I have at the moment is just coming here, focusing on the weekend and trying to get that win’ to the global stage in open-wheel racing for the first time since pulling out of Formula One in Mercedes drivers Nico Rosberg (centre), Lewis Hamilton (right) and Red Bull’s 2004, had Britain’s Adam Carroll Max Verstappen on the podium after Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix. (Reuters) finish 12th in the 45 lap race. Or- ganisers said 30,000 spectators attended the event. Ducati’s Iannone to miss Japanese GP ucati MotoGP rider Andrea DIannone will miss this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi on medical advice and will not be replaced, the factory team said yesterday. The Italian, eighth overall in the championship, has missed the last two races after suff ering a fractured vertebra when he fell in practice for the San Marino Grand Prix in September. Ducati said in a statement that Iannone, who won in Austria in August and is joining Suzuki next season, had checks last week that showed his recovery was going well. “However, Iannone’s doctor has advised him to continue with his rehabilitation and to wait a few more days until the fracture has completely healed, before going out onto the track once again,” it added. “The rider...in agreement with his team, has therefore decided not to take part in the GP of Japan and to return to the championship at the Australian GP from 21 to 23 October.” Ducati’s only works rider in Japan will be Italian Andrea Dovizioso. There are three races remaining after Japan. Spanish Honda rider Marc Marquez has Reuters as it comes rather than the campaign as course to take back the overall lead until world champion tried to dive down the “There is no protest from myself. a 52-point lead in the champi- Suzuka, Japan a whole. Runner-up to Hamilton in the his engine blew in Malaysia. outside of the Red Bull at the fi nal chi- Just heard the team had but I told onship over Yamaha’s Italian overall standings in the last two years, Rosberg also knows that in Hamilton cane in a last-gasp move near the end them it is not what we do. We are Valentino Rossi. he is not planning to change it now that he faces a formidable competitor, who of the penultimate lap. champions, we move on. End of!” he ico Rosberg is refusing to get the title is within reach. earlier this season converted a 43-point But Verstappen doggedly hung on said on Twitter. carried away by thoughts of “The best reasoning is that it’s actu- defi cit to the German into a 19-point for second place, rebuffi ng Hamilton’s Verstappen has been a breath of celebrating a maiden Formula ally working quite well,” said Rosberg. advantage with a streak of six wins attempt with a robust move that sent fresh air for the sport since he arrived One title triumph at the end “So why change something if it’s going from seven races. the Mercedes wide onto the run-off . as a 17-year-old with Toro Rosso last Nof the season, despite getting one hand quite well? “You can see how quick it goes in The Briton complained about Verstap- season but his uncompromising atti- on the championship crown with vic- “The approach that I have at the mo- Malaysia, you’re in the lead and if the pen’s driving on the radio, which Mer- tude and aggressive tactics have caused tory in the Japanese Grand Prix. ment is just coming here, focusing on other guy wins it’s 25 points lost and cedes followed up with an offi cial pro- controversy. The German eased to a maiden win the weekend and trying to get that win.” then the gap is down to eight,” said test to the stewards after the race. He clashed with Kimi Raikkonen and from pole position at the Suzuka circuit Never has a driver who has won Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff . “Already the laps before he was clos- Sebastian Vettel following August’s on Sunday, chalking up his ninth win of eight or more races in a season gone on “Remember when Nico won eight ing quite a bit,” said Verstappen. “But I Belgian Grand Prix after defending ag- the year, to lift himself 33 points clear of to lose the title. Rosberg also currently races in a row and then Lewis had that saw already out of turn 14 he had a good gressively against the Ferrari pair fol- Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton in appears to have the psychological edge winning streak? I think it’s going to go exit so yeah, I was using a bit of energy lowing a collision between the trio at the overall standings. over Hamilton, who cut a distracted down to the end.” and I defended into the last chicane. All the start. Such is Rosberg’s margin that, with and withdrawn fi gure in Suzuka. good,” the 19-year-old added. The governing International Auto- just four races to go, the 31-year-old But Rosberg, who can equal Michael Verstappen justifi es tactic Both Verstappen and Hamilton left mobile Federation’s race director Char- can take the title without needing to Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel’s the track shortly after the race and as lie Whiting had a word with Verstappen win another race. record of 13 wins in a season if he tri- aft er Hamilton clash they weren’t available to present their about his driving on Sunday. But his “I don’t feel relief,” said Rosberg, umphs at the remaining races, knows Max Verstappen once again found his version of events, the stewards decided move against Hamilton won the praise only the fi fth driver to win nine races how quickly fortunes can turn. driving the subject of discussion in the to leave it to their colleagues at the next of his team principal, Christian Horner. in a season. “I’m just happy to win the Hamilton has not won since the stewards’ offi ce, following Sunday’s race. race in Austin to look into the matter. “I thought it was fi rm but fair,” said Suzuka race.” German Grand Prix at the end of July The Dutchman clashed with Lewis Mercedes, though, later withdrew the Briton. “I didn’t really see any issue Rosberg’s comments are in keep- while Rosberg has won four of the fi ve Hamilton while defending second place the protest “in the interests of estab- with it. Lewis didn’t seem to have any ing with the approach the German has races since. in a hard-fought duel between the pair lishing a fi nal offi cial result”, a move problem after the race, apparently he adopted this year, focusing on each race Nevertheless, the Briton had been on in the closing stages of the race. The backed by Hamilton. said well done to him.” Gulf Times 10 Tuesday, October 11, 2016 SPORT

FOCUS IOC declaration insuffi cient, say anti-doping offi cials

Reuters against WADA) and the illegal abuse of Berne the privacy of clean athletes.” IOC chief Bach to meet Tokyo governor amid soaring Olympics costs The private medical data of more DPA news reports said yesterday. A panel of experts appointed by the considered, with an option being using than 100 athletes have been published he umbrella organisation Tokyo Koike is said to meet with Bach on governor reported late September that existing facilities. by the hackers. representing national anti- October 18 as she is considering mak- the costs to organize the 2020 Tokyo Koike, a former defence minister who INADO also expressed doubts about doping agencies (iNADO) ing changes to some already decided Olympics may possibly soar more than took off ice in August, is expected to the proposal for testing to be carried has complained about “trou- nternational Olympic Committee Games competition venues to slash 3tn yen (more than 29 billion dollars), compile her plans based on the report out within the WADA framework. “It Tbling omissions” in the IOC’s latest would be a clear confl ict of interest for chief Thomas Bach is expected to costs, Kyodo news agency reported, compared with the initial budged of 700 over the venues later this month. Bach proposal to catch and sanction cheat- Ihold talks with Tokyo Governor citing an unnamed source. billion yen. is scheduled to travel to Tokyo to at- WADA to do so and then regulate its ing athletes. Yuriko Koike in Japan next week amid The changes would require the ap- The panel also said plans to build tend the World Forum and Sports and own operations,” it said. INADO said the declaration pro- concerns over surging costs for the proval of the IOC and the respective new venues for swimming, volleyball Culture, where he will give an address However, it welcomed proposals to duced by the IOC after a meeting of 2020 Olympics in the Japanese capital, sports federations. and rowing/canoe sprint should be re- on October 20, Kyodo said. make anti-doping more independent, world sports leaders on Saturday had improve support for whistleblowers failed to directly mention the issue and standardise testing. of state-sponsored doping in Russia within the WADA framework, while tive principles” but these had been the world.” that country for genuinely protecting “The IOC has taken some steps in or condemn cyber attacks by the so- sanctions would be decided by the overshadowed by the failings. The McLaren report was one of two clean sport,” said iNADO. the right direction — but other steps called Fancy Bears group. Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). “The IOC’s track record since the commissioned by WADA in the last There was also “nothing acknowl- are needed urgently,” it said. The IOC promised more power WADA itself must now decide whether release of the McLaren Report has only year which revealed widespread state- edging the fi ndings of the McLaren “If, as expected, the second report and funding to the World Anti-Dop- to approve and implement the meas- confounded the global anti-doping sponsored doping in Russian sport. report as demonstrable facts and not from Professor Richard McLaren de- ing Agency (WADA), following the ures. system,” said iNADO’s chief executive “There is nothing explicit about mere allegations,” it added. tails considerably more conclusive meeting held behind closed doors in INADO, which represents the na- Joseph de Pencier. state-sponsored doping in Russia, or It also said that there was “nothing evidence of the corruption of Russian Lausanne. tional anti-doping agencies of 59 “With this latest declaration, the about the moral responsibility of the deploring the Fancy Bear cyber-at- anti-doping, then it will be even clear- It proposed that testing of athletes countries, said that the IOC’s fi ve-page IOC only comes part way to restoring IOC to push Russian sport and sport tacks (which, of course, started against er that the IOC has much more to do to should be carried out by a new agency declaration included some “construc- its credibility for the clean athletes of leaders to necessary cultural change in the IOC’s Rio ADAMS account and not protect clean athletes.”

ATHLETICS Former world junior welterweight champion Pryor dies at age of 60 AFP Los Angeles

oxing Hall of Famer Aaron Pryor, Kirui, Kiplagat lead remembered for scintillating duels Bwith Nicaraguan Alexis Arguello, died on Sunday at the age of 60 after a long battle with heart disease. “We are heartbroken and sad to an- nounce that our beloved Aaron passed away at home surrounded by his family at 5:57 am,” Frankie Pryor, his widow, said Kenyan sweep at in a statement from the family home near Cincinnati, Ohio. “He was known around the world as ‘The Hawk’ but to our family he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.” Pryor built a 39-1 record with 35 knock- outs during a career that was interrupted Chicago Marathon by drug addiction. His biggest moments in the ring were his two junior welterweight victories over ‘I was putting in my prayers and eff orts in winning today. I had a very strong mind, this time I knew it was Arguello. Pryor’s first bout against Arguello is still a matter of life and death. The course favored me and I was lucky that the weather was not so humid’ considered one of the greatest fights in boxing history. He scored a 14th-round knockout to win the match at Miami’s Or- AFP ange Bowl on November 12, 1982, retain- Chicago ing his World Boxing Association crown. The two fighters squared off in a rematch on September 9, 1983 in Las wo-time world champion Abel Kirui Vegas. Pryor knocked out Arguello in fi lled a gap on his resume, denying the 10th round and then announced his Dickson Chumba a second straight retirement. TChicago Marathon title and winning He returned nine months later, how- his fi rst World Major Marathon race yesterday. ever, successfully defending his title for Kirui, who has battled a litany of injuries since the final time by defeating Gary Hinton winning silver at the 2012 London Olympics, with a 15-round split decision. clocked 2hrs 11min 23sec with Chumba second It would be 29 months before he fought in 2:11:26 and Gideon Kipketer third in 2:12:20. again as addiction led to the loss of his “I was putting in my prayers and eff orts in title due to inactivity. winning today,” said 34-year-old Kirui. “I had a Upon his return to the ring he was very strong mind, this time I knew it was a mat- knocked out in the seventh round by ter of life and death. The course favored me and journeyman Bobby Joe Young in August I was lucky that the weather was not so humid.” of 1987. He retired for good in 1990. While Chumba was unable to repeat his 2015 Among the boxing legends tweeting triumph, Kenya’s Florence Kiplagat condolences was fellow Hall of Famer won her second straight Chicago crown, Sugar Ray Leonard: “My friend and hero powering to a dominant victory in 2:21:32, of millions of Fight fans has left us! Aaron almost two minutes ahead of runner-up Pryor RIP Champion and you will be Edna Kiplagat’s 2:23:28. missed. Love you...” Valentine Kipketer, sister of Gideon, com- pleted the Kenyan women’s sweep, fi nishing third in 2:23:41. Trump’s locker-room In a men’s race that in the absence of a pace- comment riles US athletes setter featured erratic surges in speed, a trio of Kenyans, Chumba, Kipketer and Kirui, broke AFP away late from a group of 13. St. Louis With two kilometres remaining Chumba and Kirui had separated themselves and were jock- eying for the lead before Kirui, running in Chi- everal American professional ath- cago for the fi rst time, made a decisive move. letes slammed Donald Trump yester- “It’s wonderful, amazing,” said Kirui, who day after the Republican presidential was embraced by training partner Kiplagat af- nominee tried to dismiss his sexual ter the women’s winner crossed the fi nish line. commentsS about women by describing Her dominant display ensured there was no Chicago Marathon men's winner Abel Kirui of Kenya (left) celebrates with fellow-Kenyan Florence Kiplagat, winner of the women’s race. (AFP) them as “locker-room talk”. fi nish-line drama in the women’s race, in which Speaking during the second presidential a tight-knit leading group set a more methodi- debate with Democratic candidate Hillary cal pace through the fi rst two-thirds of the race Clinton, Trump used the locker room refer- than the top men managed. ence numerous times when questioned The half-marathon world record-holder about the release of a leaked tape on Friday powered home all alone, giving a quick victory that captured him saying degrading things dance after crossing the line. about women. “When I was coming here I was determined The 70-year-old US billionaire dismissed to win because I just wanted to win twice,” said them as “just words” and “locker room talk”. the Kiplagat, who didn’t approach her personal “I haven’t heard that one in any locker best of 2:19:44 set in Berlin in 2011 but who bet- rooms,” NBA Portland Trail Blazers player CJ tered the 2:23:33 she ran in Chicago last year. McCollum wrote on Twitter. Kirui, world champion in 2009 and 2011, Trump went on to say that the video from said he now wants to tackle the London mara- 2005 “doesn’t represent who he is”. Trump thon, and take on top marathoners Eliud Kip- acknowledged he was “embarrassed” about choge, Kenenisa Bekele and Wilson Kipsang. his comments, while adding “but I have tre- Bekele missed the world record by six mendous respect for women”. Asked directly seconds in winning in Berlin last month, if he had done the things he mentioned in ahead of Kipsang. the video, Trump said: “No, I have not.” “I was praying so hard that I get something “As an athlete, I’ve been in locker rooms here so that I request my manager to give me my entire adult life and uh, that’s not locker the three guys: Eliud, Bekele and Wilson room talk,” Oakland Athletics baseball pitcher Kipsang,” Kirui said. Sean Doolittle wrote on Twitter. Paul Lonyangata and Stephen Sambu Tennis legend Martina Navratilova, who completed an all-Kenyan top fi ve in the won 18 grand slam singles titles between men’s race, Sambu making his marathon debut 1978 and 1990, said the vulgar comments after establishing himself in shorter-distance are simply a reflection of Trump’s true self. road races since graduating from the University “Locker room talk? Not on your life... this of Arizona in 2012. was Trump exactly how he is. Authentic. Obnoxious. Criminal. Etc....,” Navratilova said Results on Twitter. Men: 1. Abel Kirui (KEN) 2hr 11min 23sec; 2. Dick- National Football League player Jacob son Chumba (KEN) 2:11:26; 3. Gideon Kipketer Tamme used social media to urge Trump (KEN) 2:12:20 to quit using the word. “Please stop saying Women: 1. Florence Kiplagat (KEN) 2:21:32; 2. “locker room talk”. It’s not normal. And even Edna Kiplagat (KEN) 2:23:28; 3. Valentine Kip- if it were normal. It’s not right,” wrote Tamme keter (KEN) 2:23:41 who plays for the Atlanta Falcons. Gulf Times Tuesday, October 11, 2016 11 SPORT

FOCUS QOC secretary general meets No more secrets international swimming chief for time triallists at The Pearl With first of the Individual Time Trials around the circuit over, men’s Junior and women Elite cyclists will negotiate the technical circuit today

Who’s who in Men’s Junior ITT

DEFENDING CHAMPION Leo Appelt took victory last year in Richmond, Virginia (USA), with an amazing performance under the pouring rain, to beat crowd favourites, Adrien Costa and Bran- don McNulty from the US. Appelt and Costa, both 19-years- old now, have been promoted to Qatar Olympic Committee secretary general Dr Thani Abdulrahman the Under 23 category. McNulty, al-Kuwari (right) presents a memento to International Swimming 18, is still competing with the Jun- Federation president Julio Maglione during their meeting in Doha. During iors and seems like the favourite the meeting, the two off icials reviewed aspects of sports co-operation and in Doha, after continuously prov- ways of enhancing them in the next phase. Maglione was in the country for ing his quality. Indeed, he has won the FINA/airweave Swimming World Cup Doha 2016, which concluded on every UCI registered ITT he has Sunday. taken part in this season.

WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR The biggest challenger to Mc- Nulty’s dominance is Norway’s Qatar residents urged to give Iver Knotten, a powerhouse that has already won three ITTs in 2016 way to cyclists at all times despite being only 17 years old. He didn’t manage to win the Eu- By Sports Reporter handling skills, coupled with pace and Elite ITT will take place. It is one of ropean Championships, though. Doha managing energy reserves will be the the main races of the week, given the He finished third in a race where deciding factors. momentum that female cycling is France’s Alexey Brunel, one of the Men’s Junior ITT is the fi rst race on gaining every season. The level of the most exciting prospects in road irst Individual Time Trials of schedule. Young male cyclists aged 17 peloton is improving solidly – and so cycling, was the winner. Two rid- the UCI World Champion- and 18, who will try to prove themselves is the coverage these women get for ers from Switzerland, Marc Hirschi ships Doha 2016 were held in the event that has previously seen their outstanding feats. and Stefan Bissegger, placed 2nd yesterday. The Pearl circuit riders like Marcel Kittel or Fabian Can- Current World Champion Linda and 4th at the European Champi- thusF revealed all its secrets to the cellara, will start competing at 8:30am. Villumsen from New Zealand won’t onships in Plumelec, confirmed a competitors. Now, everybody knows The favourite this year is Brandon defend her title in Doha. Therefore, season-long show of strength. about its tricky roundabouts, the dra- McNulty, an amazing talent from the the rainbow jersey is up for grabs be- The last two Men’s Junior ITT matic 180º turns and how curvy its USA that took the bronze medal at tween a vast fi eld of riders with good UCI World Champions have been “straight” lines actually are. this race in Richmond 2015 and has credentials to get it. Germans. Bastian Flicke will look Today, it will be the moment of dominated this category this season Anna van der Breggen is the favour- to extend his country’s streak. A closed door meeting was held yesterday discussing awareness and safety. truth for Junior Men and Elite Women. by winning every UCI registered ITT ite after having won the Road Race in Harry Sweeny, both National Both are going to face The Pearl circuit he has taken part in. Rio and netting a bronze in the ITT. and Continental Champion, and s the UCI Road World Champion- Qatar and the rules of Qatar’s roads. twice to complete a total of 28.9 kilo- However, it won’t be easy for him to Fellow Dutchwoman Ellen van Dijk Alastair Christie-Johnston are ships Doha 2016 takes place, LOC president Sheikh Khalid bin Ali metres that will tell who the best is in win with current European champion is also a strong contender following the Aussies’ main chances to get Athere has been increased aware- al-Thani mentioned “the Organising each category. Alexey Brunel from France and Iver her gold medal performance at the re- the rainbow jersey back, while ness and concern for the safety of both Committee and UCI have worked hand- It is not just a matter of being the Knotten from Norway also in the fray. cent European Championships in this Mexico’s Luis Villalobos can also the cyclists and pedestrians, alike. As in-hand to make this a magnificent strongest. Some tremendous bike- Later on, at 1:15pm, the Women’s discipline. be a victory contender. the week has progressed, an increased event”. number of professional cyclists have LOC vice-chairman Dr Mohamed al-Ku- been seen training around the West wari urged drivers on Qatar’s roads to Facilities update of these hours, the frequency will be follows: Time Trial ends Bay and other nearby areas. be extra careful when nearing a cyclist. one per-hour, departing on the hour 5:30am: Sunrise (Weather Forecast: 1:15pm: UCI Women Elite Individual A closed-door session was held This is particularly important due to A 24-hour shuttle bus service is (:00) from Medina Centrale and from Sunny and Clear, H:38c, L:26c, Winds Time Trial begins yesterday, involving senior off icials of cooling temperatures, with many more available, departing the large park- the Large Parking Lot at Katara (oper- NW 19km/h) 4:30pm: UCI Women Elite Individual Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), Local residents stepping out. ing lot at Katara (near the St Regis ating in opposite directions). 7:00am: The Hub opens (an exclu- Time Trial ends Organising Committee (LOC), UDC, Among those who attended, Ibrahim roundabout), onwards to the Doha The local organising committee is sive lounge to residents of The Pearl) 4:45pm: UCI RWC Roads re-open Security Committee, ASO, and UCI. Jassim al-Othman, President and CEO Exhibition Center (DEC) and to Me- recommending fans and residents 7:00am: Shuttle bus service begins 5:10pm: Sunset QOC secretary general Dr Thani al- of UDC, said, “Feedback in The Pearl, dina Centrale in The Pearl-Qatar. This try the free water taxi services, 7:00am: Water taxi service begins 6:00pm: The Fan-Zone closes Kuwari was quoted as saying “cyclists frankly, is better than what we antici- service runs through October 16 mid- which depart every 20 minutes from 8:00am: UCI RWC Roads close 6:00pm: The Hub closes must obey the rules of the road”. pated. Thus far we have had no major night. It should be noted that 1 hour Katara, on the waterfront near the 8:30am: UCI Men Junior Individual 7:00pm: High-frequency shuttle He went on to say “motorists in Qatar stoppages, and it is business as usual at before each race until 2 hours after auditorium. Time Trial begins bus service ends; resumes to hourly must take due care to ensure the safety The Pearl-Qatar.” each race, the frequency of each bus A complete list of events and race- 9:00am: The Fan-Zone opens service Katara-Medina Centrale of cyclists and pedestrians”. Full medical and emergency services shall be every 10 minutes. Outside related transportation & closures 12:30pm: UCI Men Junior Individual 7:00pm: Water taxi service ends The UCI was specifically asked to brief are running on the island during the all cycling teams about the culture of Championships.

BOTTOMLINE Eritrea’s Teshome aims to get the best out of his journey to Qatar

By Sports Reporter quite unique. Bike Aid is a cycling com- did not face problems with issuance Doha munity that was founded in 2005, in of visas, we could have at least two Germany, as a non-profi t organisation. or three riders in world tour teams. One of the biggest such unoffi cial Sponsorship is another big issue. I am ritrean Meron Teshome has a communities in the world, they operate hopeful all that will change in the fu- dream — to make it big in the a Third Division team that competes in ture,” said the rider. world of European cycling. small races. Earlier this year, the team Teshome, who hopes to become a Coming from an African signed a three-year deal with Stradelli classics rider like Tom Boonen, said his Ecountry, where the sport is still in its Cycles and that has given wings to their ultimate dream was to ride the Euro- infancy, he has had to face a lot of chal- dreams. pean classic races. lenges. But that has only made him Meron spoke about how his associa- “Most Eritrean riders like stage races even more determined to succeed. tion with the team changed his life for and mountain climbs. But my style is The 23-year-old arrived in Qatar as the better. diff erent and so are my dreams. I am part of Germany’s Stradalli–Bike Aid “Cycling is quite popular in Eritrea best suited for one-day classic races. I team and competed in the Team Time and I began my riding career in 2008. am hoping to regularly ride at that level Trial of the UCI Road World Champi- My uncle was an Olympic competitor within the next fi ve years,” he said. onships Doha 2016. and that motivated me. I became the He recalled some of his most memo- Although his team fi nished a distant Eritrean champion in 2013 and joined rable races. 17th, it was still a great achievement the national team a year later. Soon af- “I took stages in the Tour of Rwanda for the side. Teshome was quite happy ter, I got a contract with Bike Aid and and Tour of Eritrea, in addition to win- with the way his team performed at the my life has never been the same again,” ning the Eritrean National Champion- UCI Road World Championships. he said. ships. I was also Individual Time Trial “I think my team did wonderfully “Bike Aid, although small, takes part champion at the 2015 African Games well in Doha. We are a small group and in many big races. It was a huge step up and a member of the Eritrean team do not have the budget of many bigger for me. Suddenly, I found myself com- which won Team Time Trial at the 2013 teams. We did our best under the cir- peting in higher-profi le races, in dif- African Continental Championships. cumstances. Personally, I felt the race ferent countries. My presence in Doha “The stage win in Tour of Rwanda was OK because the weather was very itself is unbelievable. I am only getting holds a special place in my mind as it similar to what we have in Eritrea,” he used to the idea that I took part in a UCI was a mountainous course. I climbed said. Road World Championships. Life is almost 2,000m during the stage. Win- “While the Stradelli Bike-Aid team good right now,” he said. ning it was a special feeling. The Afri- already left Qatar, I am staying back to He rued the situation holding Eritrea can Games win was also memorable as compete in Individual Time Trial (Oc- back from realising its full potential. it proved I was on the right path to be- tober 12) and the Elite Men’s Road Race “We have some great riders in my coming a good time trial rider,” he said. (October 16) in Eritrean colours. I’m so country. However, there are some Teshome, who has had to fi ght extra looking forward to the experience,” he major issues holding us back from hard to make an impact, is a name we Eritrea’s Meron Teshome, 23, arrived in Qatar as part of Germany’s Stradalli–Bike Aid team and has stayed back to compete in said. making it big in European cycling. I are likely to keep hearing in the coming Individual Time Trial and the Elite Men’s Road Race. The idea behind Bike Aid itself is am 100 percent sure that if Eritrea days.

Tuesday, October 11, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

UCI ROAD WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS DOHA 2016 Swinkels grabs fi rst time Marco Mathis leads a German one-two in the Men’s trial rainbow jersey Under-23 Individual Time Trial

By Yash Mudgal Doha

arlijn Swinkels grabbed the fi rst rainbow jersey at the UCI Road World Champion- ships Doha 2016 winning the KWomen’s Junior Individual Time Trial title yesterday. The 17-year-old crushed the fi eld fi nishing in 18:21.77 with an aver- age speed of 44.764 km/h. Italy’s Lisa Morzenti fi nished second in 18:29.12 and French Juliette Labous secured the bronze in 18:43.12. Germans Marco Mathis and Maxi- milian Schachmann pulled off a domi- nant time trial performance and went one-two in the Men’s Under-23 Time Trial. Swinkels, who was sixth in the In- dividual Time Trial at the European Championships, became the fi rst Dutch woman to take the women’s junior title in this event. “I’m very proud. I did not expect it at all. It’s a dream come true. I can’t de- scribe how I feel.” Talking about her race tactics she said, “We came here on Thursday. On Friday we did very low pressure training because we had to acclimatise. But on the second day we trained on the track and I did every turn at least ten times, so I knew it perfect. The race’s fi rst kil- ometres were very hot, because you do the warm-up in a very cold room, but after two kilometres I just did not think about it, just ride.” Swinkels was second in the Nether- lands’s junior national time trial cham- pionships earlier this summer. She has three other podium fi nishes in 2016 Nations Cup races. Two Americans rode to top-fi ve fi nishes in the individual test: Sky- lar Schneider was fourth, and Hannah Arensman was fi fth. Three Italians also fi nished among the top 10. Schneider rode a fast time late in the order, 18:51.80. The American was only Karlijn Swinkels (also inset) of the Netherlands crosses the finish line to win the Women’s Junior Individual Time Trial event at the 2016 UCI Road World Championships yesterday. (AFP) bettered by Swinkels and Morzenti, who had started fourth and second to last. Only Labous remained on course, and Schneider seemed to be set for a bronze medal. But, Labous closed fast to fi nish in 18:43.12, stepping up from her fi fth-place in Richmond last year. “I’m very satisfi ed. I did not know what to expect from the race. Finishing fi rst is always diffi cult but I’m happy with the silver,” Morzenti, who came into the race as European champion, said. Commenting over Italians’ suc- cess in time trialling she said, “We have been training together for weeks, both for the European Championships and the World Championships. We’ve gotten close together and the good re- lationship we have really helped us per- form well in this race.” Labous, who fi nished fi fth last year, sounded satisfi ed with her show. “My aim was to win, but coming third is also good. It’s a medal and I’m happy with a medal. Last year I was disappointed, but here I’m happy,” she said. “I went full gas from the beginning, but I knew that at the end it would be very hard with the heat, so that was mentally hard. I gave everything in the end, because I knew that this was the Executive director Ahmed Abdulla al-Hemaidi (right) flags off a rider during the place to make the diff erence. Women’s Junior Individual Time Trial event yesterday. “We have the road race ahead. We have a strong team so we want to win Defending champion Mads Wurtz 5. Hannah Arensman (USA) +34.05 this race. My season is already good, Germany’s Marco Mathis (centre) celebrates on the podium after winning the Men’s Under-23 Time Trial event ahead of Schmidt had a forgettable outing. The 6. Franziska Brauße (GER) +34.26 because I signed a contract with Team compatriot Maximilian Schachmann (left) and Australia’s Miles Scotson yesterday. PICTURES: Jayaram Dane could only manage 21st place, 7. Simone EG (DEN) +38.41 Liv-Plantur, so I will be a professional more than two minutes behind. An- 8. Alessia Vigilia (ITA) +42.13 rider and that was my aim of the sea- so I’m generally very happy with how I future,” she said. Mathis was one of the early starters other pre-race favourite, Italian Filippo 9. Madeleine Fasnacht (AUS) +43.60 son.” did today. It was hot, but that was re- In the men’s section Mathis, 22, and put down a time that was not to be Ganna, world pursuit champion, fi n- 10. Elena Pirrone (ITA) +43.67 Elena Pirrone was the fi rst rider to ally OK.” claimed the world championship title bettered by other 72 riders in the cat- ished 14th. Men’s Under-23 Individual Time Trial leave the start ramp at The Pearl-Qatar. The South American riders were not in the under-23 time trial race, fi nishing egory. Time trial races continue today with 1. Marco Mathis (GER) 34:08.09 She fi nished in 19:05.44 and stayed able to get anywhere near the podium ahead of his teammate Schachmann, “I badly wanted to win and I re- the junior men’s and the elite women’s 2. Maximilian Schachmann (GER) +18.63 in the hot seat only until the eleventh with Pan-American champion Tatiana who was also second in the 2015 worlds ally went all out,” said Australian Miles events. 3. Miles Scotson (AUS) +37.98 starter Franziska Brausse became the Duenas ending up as best South Ameri- U-23 time trial. Scotson, who fi nished third. “It was a 4. Lennard Kamna (GER) +42.30 fi rst rider to beat the 19-minute barrier can in 19th place. The Colombian was “It was my course, absolutely fl at and tough race, but a good race for me.” RESULTS 5. Kasper Asgreen (DEN) +50.58 on the 13.7-kilometre loop when she satisfi ed however: “I’m quite happy technical,” Mathis said. Neilson Powless, US team’s best Women Junior Individual Time Trial 6. Neilson Powless (USA) +54.17 fi nished in 18:56.03. because this is only my second year of The win was even sweeter for the hope for a medal at the Worlds, could 1. Karlijn Swinkels (NED) 18:21.77 7. Geoff rey Curran (USA) +1:05.45 Pirrone was quite satisfi ed with the competition and fi rst World Champi- Germans as another teammate, Len- only manage a sixth place, 54 seconds 2. Lisa Morzenti (ITA) +7.35 8. Tom Bohli (SUI) +1:16.24 conditions: “It was not as windy as I onships. I hope my country gives even nard Kamna, last year’s bronze medal- behind, and just nine seconds ahead of 3. Juliette Labous (FRA) +21.35 9. Eddie Dunbar (IRL) +1:21.59 expected to be. I improved my position, more support to women’s cycling in the list in the race, fi nished fourth. his teammate Geoff rey Curran. 4. Skylar Schneider (USA) +30.03 10. Callum Scotson (AUS) +1:22.30

Van der Breggen looking to add to Olympic gold

AFP ing world title-holder Linda Villumsen the successful Boels Dolemans side who What could be of more concern to the Doha of New Zealand both missing the won the team event on Sunday. riders though is the heat. event, in-form Van der Breggen looks It will be an emotional race for the The forecast is for temperatures to hit the clear favourite. Dutch as Annemiek van Vleuten, who 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahr- lympic road race champion Last year, the 26-year-old took silver suff ered a horror crash in the road enheit) today, though the race does Anna van der Breggen will behind Danish-born Villumsen while race at the Olympics that left her with take part in the afternoon when the Oline up as favourite to complete also coming second in the road race in concussion and three cracked verte- mercury may have cooled slightly. a unique double when the women’s Richmond, USA, but Van der Breggen brae, will also race. Already this week, Anouska Koster time-trial world championships begin will be looking to go one better this Australia’s Katrin Garfoot, the Oceania from the Netherlands crashed heavily in Qatar today. time around. champion, and Germany’s Lisa Bren- in the team time-trial apparently suf- Just over two months ago, Van der And perhaps her main competition will nauer, the 2014 world champion, are fering from the heat. Breggen won a thrilling gold medal at come from compatriot Ellen van Dijk, also expected to challenge. Prior to the championships, organisers the Rio Games in the road race before the European champion, on the flat yet Cyclists will compete two laps off the had announced they would consider adding time-trial bronze to boot. technically demanding 28.9km course. course on The Pearl-Qatar, an artificial shortening races because of the heat, And with Olympic time-trial champion Van Dijk has already picked up one gold island in Doha and home to some though Sunday’s team time-trial Kristin Armstrong of the US and reign- medal at these championships as part of 12,000 people. events went the full planned distance.