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Friday, October 19, 2018 FORMULA 1 Safar 10, 1440 AH Alonso puts Hamilton GULF TIMES in top five of all time — but not Vettel SPORT Page 3 EQUESTRIAN Al Shaqab horses continue winning run at Morocco horse show

Agencies El Jadida, Morocco Morocco values Qatar’s Salon presence, Prince Abdellah to QREC GM al-Kaabi s many as fi ve Al Shaqab horses topped their re- Agencies spective classes at the El Jadida, Morocco Morocco International HorseA Show, part of the Salon du Cheval, which is being held alon du Cheval Organis- under the patronage of King Mo- ing Committee chairman hamed VI of Morocco. SPrince Abdellah Alaoui Hagras Al Shaqab topped the appreciated the significant class for two-year-old colts, Qatari impact on the ongoing earning the highest score from edition of the equestrian event the judges and qualifying for the in a meeting with Qatar Racing championship round. Al Shaqab’s Breeding and Show manager Sheikh Hamad bin Ali al-Thani (fourth from left), Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) The prize distribution ceremo- and Equestrian Club (QREC) Board member Khalid bin Mohamed al-Ali (left) and QREC Racing manager general manager Nasser bin ny for the class saw the presence Abdulla bin Rashid al-Kubaisi (second from right) pose with Hagras Al Shaqab after he won the class for Sherida al-Kaabi. of Al Shaqab’s Breeding and Show two-year-old colts at the Morocco International Horse Show in El Jadida, Morocco, yesterday. Al-Kaabi met Prince Abdellah QREC general manager Nasser Sherida al-Kaabi (left) with Salon du manager Sheikh Hamad bin Ali al- on the sidelines of the 11th Cheval Organising Committee chairman Prince Abdellah Alaoui. Thani, Qatar Racing and Eques- the Yearling Fillies class. Alsba Al efi ts of the Qatari participation at to fostering the Qatari participa- edition of the Salon in El Jadida, trian Club (QREC) Board member Shaqab topped the class for two- the Salon du Cheval d’El Jadida, tion by QREC, Qatar Equestrian Morocco. QREC is the Platinum “The meeting was fruitful and keen to collaborate to enhance Khalid bin Mohamed al-Ali and year-old fi llies, while Um Gariba including exposure to partici- and Modern Pentathlon Federa- Sponsor of the 2018 edition of it reflected the nature of the the standing of the sport in QREC Racing manager Abdulla bin Al Shaqab won the class for three- pants from as many as 28 coun- tion, and Al Shaqab. We all work the Salon. relations between Qatar and both the countries with na- Rashid al-Kubaisi. year-old fi llies. Aaida Al Shaqab tries, and the huge turnout at the under one umbrella and Qatar’s During the meeting, mementos Morocco in general and in tional and international events. Hagras Al Shaqab’s class vic- emerged on top in the class for four week-long event. success is our goal behind this were exchanged and Prince various fields,” al-Kaabi said. “Given these firm relations tory was fi fth on the fi rst two to six-year-old fi llies. “There is always something participation. We have achieved Abdellah lauded Qatar’s role “In fact, Prince Abdellah Alaoui and desire for mutual success, days of the show. new every year refl ecting the the goal we came here for, es- through the platinum sponsor- expressed his appreciation of QREC’s participation in the Sa- Earlier in the competition, ‘QATAR’S SUCCESS IS GOAL AT Moroccan desire for continu- pecially with the Ministry of ship this year and keenness the Qatari role and hoped for lon will certainly be on a larger four Al Shaqab fi llies impressed SALON’ ous development,” al-Ali said. Culture and Sports’ keenness to to have a stand representing more co-operation in future.” scale in the coming years,” he in their respective classes. Gal- QREC Board member al-Ali “QREC’s platinum sponsorship support QREC’s participation at Qatar’s equestrian sport. He said the two sides were said. liba Al Shaqab tallied 460 points in stressed on the valuable ben- of this year’s edition has been key the Salon every year.”

CRICKET / PAK VS AUS, DAY 3, 2ND TEST Dominant Pakistan close on series win over Australia Azam narrowly misses out on a maiden hundred as Pakistan set a daunting 538-run target for the tourists

AFP Abu Dhabi

akistan grabbed an early wicket after Babar Azam struck a fl uent 99 to edge closer to claiming a series Pvictory over Australia in the sec- ond Test at Abu Dhabi yesterday. Azam narrowly missed out on a hundred after an aggressive innings, while skipper Sarfraz Ahmed followed up his fi rst- innings 94 with 81 as Pakistan declared their second innings at 400-9, setting a daunting 538-run target for the tourists. By the close on the third day, Pakistan had Shaun Marsh dismissed for four — bowled by left-arm paceman Mir Hamza for his fi rst Test wicket — to boost their chances of victory after Australia clung on for a thrilling draw in the fi rst Test in Dubai last week. Aaron Finch (24) and Travis Head (17) were at the crease with Australia, who are 47-1 and need another 491 for an unlikely win or to bat out two full days on a weary and spinning Sheikh Zayed Stadium pitch. No team has ever chased more than 418-7 to win a Test, made by the West Indies against Australia Pakistan’s Sarfraz Ahmed and Babar Azam (right, also left) run between the wickets at Antigua in 2003. on day three of the second Test against Australia in Abu Dhabi yesterday. (AFP) Pakistan piled on the runs with Azam, Sarfraz and Azhar Ali — six fours, improved on his previ- man edged a Peter Siddle delivery who was the casualty of a bizarre ous best Test score of 90 not out. towards the third-man boundary Scorecard run out — all making half-centu- He and Sarfraz added 135 runs and, thinking the ball had crossed ries to build on the hosts’ 137-run for the sixth wicket to end any the rope, halted in the middle of fi rst-innings lead. hopes Australia had of a fi ght- the pitch to talk to fellow bats- PAKISTAN 1st innings 282 B. Azam lbw b M. Marsh 99 Fall of wickets: 1-15 (Hafeez), AUSTRALIA 2nd innings But none of them could go on back after taking the second new man Asad Shafi q. AUSTRALIA 1st innings 145 S. Ahmed lbw b Labuschagne 81 2-106 (Zaman), 3-154 (Sohail), A. Finch batting 24 4-160 (Ali), 5-235 (Shafiq), 6-368 to score a ton, with Azam falling ball at 273-5. But Mitchell Starc picked up PAKISTAN 2nd innings (o/n: 144/2) B. Asif c Head b Lyon 15 S. Marsh b Hamza 4 agonisingly close to his maiden But the pick of the bowlers was the ball less than a yard from (Azam), 7-390 (Asif), 8-394 (Shah), F. Zaman c and b Lyon 66 Y. Shah lbw b Lyon 4 T. Head batting 17 hundred, trapped leg-before by off -spinner Nathan Lyon who the boundary and threw it back 9-400 (Ahmed) medium pacer Mitchell Marsh. followed his fi rst-innings four to wicketkeeper Tim Paine, who M. Hafeez c Head b Starc 6 M. Abbas not out 0 Bowling: Starc 7-0-32-1 (1nb), Extras (lb2) 2 “Of course, missing a hundred wickets with 3-135 in a marathon ran Azhar out, leaving the Paki- A. Ali run out 64 M. Hamza not out 0 Siddle 23-4-68-0, Lyon 43-8-135-4, Total (for one wkt; 12 overs) 47 is disappointing but such things 43-over vigil. stani duo — who have combined Holland 16-3-46-0, Labuschagne H. Sohail st Paine b Lyon 17 Extras (lb 2, nb 2) 4 Fall of wickets: 1-10 (S. Marsh) are part and parcel of the game,” After a dull opening period, the experience of 130 Tests and over 16-1-74-2, M. Marsh 13-3-39-1 (1nb), A. Shafiq c Agar b Labuschagne 44 Total (for 9 wkts dec; 120 overs) 400 Bowling: Abbas 4-0-15-0, Hamza said Azam. embarrassing dismissal of Azhar 9,000 runs — stranded and look- Head 2-0-4-0 3-0-19-1, Shah 3-0-6-0, Asif 2-1-5-0 Azam, who hit three sixes and brought the day to life. The bats- ing bewildered. Gulf Times 2 Friday, October 19, 2018 SPORT

FOCUS T20 league adds glamour to Afghan cricket AFP ghanistan rose to become one of only 12 But the APL also provides a stage for Sharjah, United Arab Emirates Test nations earlier this year. Afghanistan’s own stars including Rash- Stanikzai knows the dangers of Afghan id Khan, teenage spinner Mujeeb Ur Rah- cricket more than most: his playing ca- man and all-rounder Mohammed Nabi, fghanistan defi ed decades of reer was fl ourishing until it was cut short who all featured in this year’s IPL. confl ict to join cricket’s elite by a Taliban bullet in his right shoulder. Rashid, 20, is the world’s top-ranked club of Test nations, but now In September last year, a suicide attack bowler for T20 internationals, and this they have added a dash of glam- outside Kabul’s main cricket stadium left year he became the fastest player to reach ourA with their inaugural Twenty20 league three people dead, while eight were killed 100 ODI wickets, in 44 games. in the United Arab Emirates. and several injured in an attack at a crick- “Now is the time for the youngsters Ten years after India’s IPL changed the et match in Jalalabad. from Afghanistan to come forward and face of cricket with music, fi reworks and Such conditions made it impossi- show their ability, like players have done cheerleaders, the Afghanistan Premier ble to hold the APL in Afghanistan, but in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Aus- League has joined the growing list of T20 Stanikzai said: “I am sure this league, tralia,” said Rashid. tournaments worldwide. like in other countries, will further lift Rashid took 10 wickets at last month’s The pyrotechnics weren’t long com- standards of our players and our overall Asia Cup in UAE, making him the joint ing, as 20-year-old Hazratullah Zazai’s cricket.” most successful bowler as Afghanistan extraordinary six sixes in one over, part He added: “There were challenges upset Sri Lanka and Bangladesh and tied of a record-equalling 12-ball half-cen- aplenty, they still exist but we have over- a match with India, the tournament’s tury, immediately drew attention from come those, received tremendous sup- eventual winners. around the globe. port from our government, the people of The performances suggest that Af- “It’s a very proud moment for the en- Afghanistan and from the International ghanistan could prove a handful at next tire nation to have a league of our own Cricket Council.” year’s one-day World Cup in England which gives our players chance to show- and Wales, after they made their debut in case their talent and rub the shoulders ‘UNITY AND LOVE’ the competition in 2015. with some foreign stars,” Afghanistan West Indies big-hitter Chris Gayle and “We don’t believe in fragmentation,” Cricket Board chief executive Shafi q India’s Yuvraj Singh are among the head- said Stanikzai. “We want to send a mes- Stanikzai told AFP. Despite its turbu- liners, along with New Zealand’s Bren- sage of unity and love and cricket has lent history, with most players learning don McCullum and Shahid Afridi of been a tool through which we send this Balkh Legends’ Ryan ten Doeschate plays a shot during the Afghanistan Premier League match against Paktia Panthers cricket in refugee camps in Pakistan, Af- Pakistan. message.” in Sharjah on October 13. (AFP)

CRICKET RUGBY ‘Third-choice’ Cipriani overlooked Kaneria admits guilt by England

AFP tain the side for so many tests Twickenham, United Kingdom and then watching Owen in South Africa, the combination of those two together is just a great anny Cipriani was fi t. in Westfi eld fi xing labelled England’s “Whatever team I’ve coached “third-choice fl y-half” where we’ve had success you’ve by coach Eddie Jones always had two at the top and asD he explained why he had left traditionally they’ve been called the in-form playmaker out of his a captain and a vice-captain, squad for the November inter- but I see the role as being co- nationals at Twickenham. captains. Cipriani has impressed for “Dylan will handle certain case aft er six years Gloucester this season, and was things on the fi eld, Owen will named Premiership player of the handle certain things, the things ‘I want to apologise to Westfield, my Essex teammates, my fans. I say sorry to Pakistan’ month for September. that come natural to him, and But that was not enough to then off the fi eld we’ve got a great AFP persuade Jones to include him combination because Dylan’s a London in a 36-man squad announced bit older, Owen’s younger.” yesterday for next month’s home Jones also said the role of the Tests against South Africa, New media in English Rugby un- akistan’s Danish Kan- Zealand, 2019 World Cup hosts ion had infl uenced his decision eria has fi nally admit- Japan and Australia. to split the captaincy between ted his role in a fi xing Despite being England’s start- Hartley and Farrell. scandal that led to the ing No 10 in their most recent “In England the job of the Pimprisonment of former Essex game against South Africa in captain is probably the biggest teammate Mervyn Westfi eld June and producing an excel- job in the world in terms of Rug- after six years of denials, Brit- lent opening to the season at his by so they can share that respon- ain’s Daily Mail reported late new club, Jones left him out of sibility which will help the play- Wednesday. an initial training squad and the ers in their own preparation,” he Kaneria, who was given a life Australian stuck with his deci- explained. But as for who would ban by English cricket chiefs sion yesterday. Instead George lead the side onto the fi eld, Jones that eff ectively applied world- Ford and Owen Farrell, who can joked: “They’ll hold hands when wide, said in an interview for also play at inside centre, are they run out.” an Al Jazeera television docu- England’s preferred fl y-halves. Injuries and suspensions have mentary quoted by the Mail: Farrell has also been named as deprived England of several play- “My name is Danish Kaneria a co-captain alongside regular ers, with a six-week ban given to and I admit that I was guilty of skipper Dylan Hartley. Nathan Hughes early yesterday the two charges brought against “We’ve got two good 10s ruling out another back-row for- me by the England and Wales there,” Jones told a Twickenham ward after the likes of Billy Vuni- Cricket Board in 2012.” news conference. “It’s tough on pola, Sam Simmonds and Chris Leg-spinner Kaneria, who Danny. He’s our third-choice Robshaw had all been sidelined. insisted he was repentant as at the moment but George and As a result, No 8 Ben Morgan re- he called for his life ban to be Owen are our fi rst-two choices.” turned for the fi rst time since the overturned, added: “I want to “I’ve had discussions with 2015 World Cup. apologise to Mervyn Westfi eld, him (Cipriani). He’s worked on “We’ve always spoken at a my Essex teammates, my Essex some areas...but there are areas World Cup about needing to cricket club, my Essex cricket he (still) needs to work on,” add- have the depth of three players in fans. I say sorry to Pakistan.” ed Jones without elaborating on each position and immediately Westfi eld spent two months what those areas were. in November we are going to be at Belmarsh prison in south- As for splitting the captain- tested in some positions where east London after pleading Pakistan’s Danish Kaneria celebrates taking the wicket of Sri Lanka’s Malinda Warnapura with teammates on the fourth day of their third cy, former Australia and Japan we are down to fourth or fi fth guilty to accepting £6,000 Test in Colombo on July 23, 2009. (Reuters) coach Jones said: “I think to me choice,” said Jones, appointed ($7,862) from an illegal book- it almost became a no-brainer. after 2015 hosts England’s em- maker, Anu Bhatt, to concede 261 Test wickets. give something back. and worse,” he recalled. my life, but I have never blamed “Having watched Dylan cap- barrassing fi rst-round exit. 12 runs in his fi rst over of an “If the ECB and ICC and oth- “I didn’t have the courage anyone for the terrible mistake English county 40-over game ‘FORGIVENESS’ er bodies would give me a sec- to face him and tell him that I I made. “However, opening against Durham in 2009. He He last played for Pakistan in ond chance I can help to educate was wrong. He was a very, very up about my wrongdoing and conceded only 10, but still took the Trent Bridge Test of 2010, young people in cricket, teach proud guy. Very, very proud of telling the truth allowed me to Three new faces in Wallabies squad the money. Kaneria was the and has not appeared in any them that if you do wrong you me and what I did, represent- move on,” added Westfi eld, now “middle-man” in the scam, fi rst-class game since March are fi nished like me.” ing Pakistan, representing my 30, who was banned from pro- for All Blacks clash having introduced Westfi eld 2012, with all major boards Kaneria said the fear of em- country. I want to apologise to fessional cricket for fi ve years Three uncapped players were from injury. The clash against to Bhatt, but avoided criminal upholding the ECB ban under barrassing his father, who died my father, who has always been after being released from jail but named yesterday in the Walla- New Zealand in Yokohama on charges when English legal au- International Cricket Council in 2013 and had been suff ering a role model for me.” has since played club and minor bies squad to face the All Blacks October 27 will be a memorable thorities decided they lacked guidance. “I want to ask peo- from cancer, explained part of Meanwhile Westfi eld told county matches. “I hope that in next week’s third Bledisloe occasion for Kepu who is in line the evidence for a conviction. ple’s forgiveness,” said Kaneria. the reason behind his repeated the Mail he accepted Kaneria’s Danish fi nds peace and closure Cup Test in Japan, where to become the Wallabies’ ninth Now 37, Kaneria remains Pa- “Cricket has given me so denials of wrongdoing. apology, saying: “This whole by doing this, and I wish him all Sekope Kepu is set to make centurion, and the first prop to kistan’s leading spinner with much in my life and I want to “His health was getting worse chapter of spot-fi xing changed the best for the future.” his 100th appearance. NSW record 100 caps in Australian Waratahs lock Jed Holloway Test history. Cheika goes into earned his first call-up after an the game with some breathing impressive Super Rugby season, space after Australia wiped out Pakistan bypass Amir for Australia Twenty20 series while teammate and scrum-half a 24-point half-time deficit for Jake Gordon and Melbourne a stunning 45-34 triumph over Pakistan selectors once again Allrounder Imad Wasim is also Malik, Asif Ali, Hussain Talat, side. Lewis’ withdrawal comes Rebels flanker Angus Cottrell Argentina in Salta. left out fast bowler Mohamed set to make a comeback with Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah as a major blow to the Windies also got the nod. The untried SQUAD Amir from the country’s the team after his form and Afridi, Usman Khan Shinwari, one-day international line-up, trio will be hoping to force Forwards: Jermaine Ainsley, 15-member squad set to square fitness was monitored by the Hassan Ali, Imad Wasim, Waqas with Chris Gayle and Andre Rus- their way into Michael Cheika’s Allan Alaalatoa, Rory Arnold, off against Australia during the selection committee during a Maqsood, Faheem Ashraf. sell also not playing in the series. spring tour squad and make a Adam Coleman, Angus Cottrell, three-match Twenty20 series string of domestic matches, Meanwhile, left-arm fast bowler late push for consideration for Jack Dempsey, Folau Fainga’a, starting next week. The 26-year- added Inzamam. WINDIES’ LEWIS WITHDRAWS Obed McCoy, originally included next year’s World Cup in Japan. Ned Hanigan, Jed Holloway, old went wicketless in three His last match was during the FROM INDIA ODI TOUR in just the T20 squad, will also Queensland Reds centre Samu Michael Hooper (capt), Sekope Asia Cup matches in the United Twenty20 series against Sri West Indies opener Evin Lewis join the 50-overs squad as Kerevi makes his return in the Kepu, Tolu Latu, Brandon Arab Emirates (UAE) last month, Lanka in Lahore last year. has withdrawn from the limited- cover for the 21-year-old Alzarri 31-man squad after missing Paenga-Amosa, David Pocock, losing his place in the country’s The first Twenty20 international overs leg of the India tour for Joseph, who remains under the entire Rugby Champion- Izack Rodda, Rob Simmons, Test squad as well as in the on- New Zealand, which was also is in Abu Dhabi on October 24 personal reasons, Cricket West observation until he returns to ship with a bicep injury. The Scott Sio, Taniela Tupou. going series against Australia. played in UAE. “Maqsood has followed by the next two in Indies (CWI) has said. full fitness. India play five one- 25-year-old has not played since Backs: Tom Banks, Kurtley Another left-arm pacer Waqas been drafted in the T20 squad Dubai later this month on the Kieran Powell will replace the dayers against West Indies with the third Test against Ireland in Beale, Israel Folau, Bernard Maqsood – who has yet to play after his recent performances in 26th and 28th. 26-year-old batsman in the the first match in Guwahati on June, with Reece Hodge start- Foley, Will Genia, Jake Gordon, for the national senior team – domestic cricket and playing for PAKISTAN SQUAD: Sarfraz one-day international squad, Sunday. The teams will then play ing at outside centre in all six Dane Haylett-Petty, Reece has been included in the squad Pakistan’s ‘A’ team against New Ahmed (captain), Fakhar Zaman, while Nicholas Pooran, who last three Twenty20 internationals. games in his absence. But Tevita Hodge, Samu Kerevi, Marika following a good showing with Zealand’s ‘A’ team,” said chief Mohamed Hafeez, Sahibzada featured for West Indies in 2016, The hosts won the recent test Kuridrani was again been left Koroibete, Jack Maddocks, Sefa Pakistan’s second string against selector Inzamam-ul-Haq. Farhan, Babar Azam, Shoaib takes his spot in the Twenty20 series 2-0. out as he continues to recover Naivalu, Nick Phipps. Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 3 SPORT

FOCUS Kyrgios calls time on season due to elbow injury AFP the spring. At the US Open, a perceived Lithuania. Serbian fourth seed Filip Moscow lack of eff ort led to umpire Mohamed Krajinovic also advanced to the last Lahyani controversially coming down eight with a 7-5, 6-4 win over Russia’s from his chair to give advice to the un- Evgeny Donskoy and next plays Italian ustralian fi rebrand Nick Kyr- predictable Australian. veteran Andreas Seppi. gios called time on his sea- In Shanghai last week, he lost in the In the WTA tournament, US Open son yesterday after an elbow fi rst round to American qualifi er Brad- semi-fi nalist Anastasija Sevastova, injury forced him out of the ley Klahn, the world number 104, with seeded fi fth, battled back from a set KremlinA Cup in Moscow. a performance which again sparked down to oust Russian 34-year-old The world number 37, who had been questions over his commitment. Kyr- qualifi er Vera Zvonareva 4-6, 7-5, 6-3. playing on a wild card in Russia, said gios has also lost his status as Austral- “It’s hard to play three-setters as I he was heading home to prepare for the ian number one to 19-year-old Alex de feel ache all over my body and have a 2019 campaign. Minaur. sore throat but I keep on fi ghting,” said “It’s very unfortunate dealing with Russian second seed Daniil Latvia’s Sevastova. an ongoing elbow injury I dealt with Medvedev cruised into the Moscow In the semi-fi nals, Sevastova, at a at the start of the season,” 23-year-old quarter-fi nals with a straight-sets win career-high ranking of 11, will face an- Kyrgios said in a statement. over Serbia’s Dusan Lajovic. Medvedev, other qualifi er Ons Jabeur of Tunisia, “It kept me out for a month or two. 22, who has won three ATP titles this who extended her winning run with a It started to bother me a little bit this year to reach a career-high ranking of 7-5, 6-1 win over Estonia’s eighth seed week so I’m going to wrap up my sea- 21, swept to a 6-2, 6-1 win in under an Anett Kontaveit. son, head home and start the recovery. hour. “I’ve made it to the semis, why not See you all in 2019.” “It’s my fi rst professional tourna- to go straight to the title and have a big Kyrgios’s injury meant that Bosnia’s ment where I’ve got the opening-round celebration here in Moscow?” Jabeur Mirza Basic got a free pass into the bye,” Medvedev said. said. quarter-fi nals where he will take on “That’s why I was slightly nervous In the other semi-fi nal, Briton Jo- Russian third seed Karen Khachanov. in the beginning. Luckily, I took my- hanna Konta, who overcame Aliaksan- Kyrgios has endured another roller- self under control quickly and gave him dra Sasnovich of Belarus 6-2, 2-6, 7-6 coaster season. He captured a fourth (Lajovic) only three games. In general (7/2), will meet sixth-seeded Russian career title in Brisbane in January be- I’m pleased.” Daria Kasatkina, who saw off compa- fore missing two months of the cam- Medvedev will next meet last triot Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-4, paign, including the French Open, in year’s runner-up Ricardas Berankis of 6-3.

FORMULA 1 TENNIS Halep withdraws from WTA Finals, Bertens Alonso puts Hamilton to make debut

Reuters Singapore in top fi ve of all time orld number one Simona Halep pulled out of next week’s WTA Finals Wdue to a lower back injury yes- terday, handing fi rst alternate Kiki Bertens a spot at the sea- — but not Vettel son-ending eight-woman event in Singapore for the fi rst time. gapore standings, will be making ‘It is diff icult to compare those diff erent times and diff erent championships, but Lewis “The decision was tough for her WTA Finals debut in the last sure,” the 27-year-old Roma- version of the tournament in matching (Juan-Manuel) Fangio with five championships will be a great achievement’ nian said on her verifi ed Twitter Singapore after a fi ve-year run account of an injury sustained in Southeast Asia. The 26-year- AFP during training ahead of the old will be fi rst Dutchwoman to New York Wuhan Open last month and lat- compete at the season-ending er diagnosed as a herniated disc. showpiece in more than 20 years, “It’s always diffi cult to with- since Brenda Schultz-McCarthy ernando Alonso heaped draw from a big tournament. lost in the fi rst round in 1997. praise on Lewis Ham- Actually, I think it’s the fi rst time Bertens has won three tourna- ilton and omitted Se- in my life. So it was a tough deci- ments this season, including a bastian Vettel yesterday sion but it’s better for my health. victory over Halep to claim the whenF he was asked to name his “My back is not ok. I didn’t Cincinnati Masters title. fi ve greatest Formula One driv- practice for the last four weeks. ers of all time. I’m not ready to compete at this WOZNIACKI HOPES TO Speaking at a news conference level and I’m still sore. It’s not CARRY MOMENTUM ahead of this weekend’s United easy to go on court and compete Caroline Wozniacki will be look- States Grand Prix, the two-time at this moment.” ing to carry the momentum of a world champion Spaniard said Halep has enjoyed a stel- strong end to the season through that Hamilton had proved his tal- lar season, which saw her reach to a second successive WTA Fi- ent by winning in cars that were the Australian Open fi nal before nals title triumph next week as not expected to be victorious. winning her maiden Grand Slam the Dane looks to end her most “It is diffi cult to compare title at the French Open. “I want- successful season on a high. those diff erent times and diff er- ed to fi nish 2018 on a high after The 28-year-old world ent championships, but Lewis such an incredible year, but sad- number two built on her victory matching (Juan-Manuel) Fan- ly my back injury hasn’t healed in Singapore a year ago by claim- gio with fi ve championships the way we hoped it would and I ing a maiden Grand Slam title at will be a great achievement,” need to put my long-term health the Australian Open in January, said Alonso. fi rst,” she added. with Wozniacki keen to stress “If one (driver) had to do that “I’m sad I won’t be able to the importance of making the in our generation, I am happy it is play the fi fth and fi nal edition most of being in good form. Lewis as he has showed the talent in Singapore, but I’m confi dent “I think it’s really important. and commitment. When the car this is the right decision and will Any bit will help,” Wozniacki, is dominating, then he delivers - do everything I can to be back who won her second China Open and when it is not good enough fi ghting my place at the WTA title earlier this month, told re- to win a world championship, he Finals next year. “Singapore is a porters in Singapore yesterday still puts in the performance to special city and I’m sure the fans ahead of the season-ending show his talent. “That is diffi cult will enjoy seeing some fantastic eight-woman event that starts to see nowadays.” women’s tennis this week.” on Sunday. “You play against the Hamilton needs to outscore Despite withdrawing from top players in the world so you Vettel, a fellow-four-time Singapore, Halep is guaranteed need to be on your A-game to champion, by eight points in to end 2018 as world number one win matches and try and win the Sunday’s race to clinch his fi fth for the second year in a row. tournament. So I am defi nitely title, but he avoided all talk of In her absence, Bertens, who going to take the momentum that any glory that may ahead. fi nished ninth in the Race to Sin- I have and try and play well here.” Alonso spoke twice in glow- Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton (left) of Great Britain and McLaren driver Fernando Alonso of Spain during the drivers press conference in ing terms of Hamilton’s raw tal- Austin, United States, yesterday. (Getty Images/AFP) ent and speed, the pair having been McLaren team-mates in Serena’s coach Mouratoglou calls 2007 when the Briton entered Hamilton prefers talk of pancakes not F1 pantheon for on-court coaching Formula One. “Thank you,” said Hamilton, A relaxed Lewis Hamilton talked more of his “So we are aiming to raise the bar again. I am American reporters, Hamilton talked freely Patrick Mouratoglou, the coach during the US Open final against softly, after his fi rst response. love for pancakes and America yesterday not thinking of how it would feel if we can do of his love of the Austin circuit and the food at the centre of Serena Wil- Japan’s Naomi Osaka. The Spaniard went on to say his than clinching a fifth world title in this week- the job. I am just focusing on driving the best he had enjoyed. “Most modern tracks are not liams’s infamous US Open final Williams then carried out a run- top fi ve would include seven- end’s United States Grand Prix. I have all year long. Nothing is given.” that good,” he said. “They don’t make them meltdown, yesterday called for ning verbal battle with umpire time champion Michael Schu- The 33-year-old Mercedes driver, who needs Fresh from several days in New York, Hamil- like they did in the olden days! But this is one on-court coaching to be allowed Carlos Ramos who eventually macher, fi ve-time champion to outscore rival Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari by ton – who has won five of the six races hosted that is. It’s got great character. at all events. The Frenchman penalised her a game. Fangio, three-time champion eight points to secure this year’s champion- by the Circuit of the Americas at Austin – “Right from day one, a big crowd came and insists that coaching goes on all The American described Ra- Ayrton Senna, four-time cham- ship, evaded all invitations to talk of glory made clear he felt at home in Texas and the they were mostly new to the sport so it was the time at tournaments and to mos as a “liar and a thief” before pion Alain Prost and Hamilton. or his place in the pantheon of Formula One United States. great and every year it has been growing. believe otherwise is “hypocrisy”. crashing to defeat at a shell- “This would probably be the history. “I don’t know if I love American more than “But it is a massive challenge and, here, you “Coaching is a vital component shocked Flushing Meadows. top fi ve for me,” he said. “As a team, we don’t say how cool it would be anyone else does,” he said. can race. You can follow here and you can of any sporting performance. Yet Mouratoglou insists that all Asked by Australian Dan- to do it this weekend, or next,” he told report- “I think everyone likes it here. I grew up race. You can have real races.” banning it almost makes it look players are coached from the iel Ricciardo of Red Bull, who ers at a pre-event news conference. watching movies from the States, as a kid, Hamilton revealed that he had spent some of as if it had to be hidden or as if sidelines and it is hypocrisy to was sitting close to him, if he “We don’t focus on ‘ifs’ – we focus on making and then when I was 17 I went to New York for his early life living on an American air base it was shameful,” Mouratoglou deny it exists. would include himself, Alonso sure we can deliver. the first time and I loved it. And since then, in Britain when his mother “”was dating this wrote in a Twitter statement. The US Open has experimented said: “No. Not really.” Hamilton “There are 100 points still available so you more and more, I enjoy it. Everything here is guy... and I had the greatest chicken wings!” “Authorising coaching in com- with on-court coaching in qualify- spoke of both Fangio and Vettel can’t just be complacent and not in a cham- generally bigger and, in most cases, better! He added that he was now on a “plant-based petition and actually staging it ing and junior events and it’s as he responded to questions. pionship as intense as this one – and it will The cities, the people, the energy and the mu- diet - so I don’t know how that’s going to go so that the viewers can enjoy it understood that the issue will “Fangio is the Godfather of be intense again. We expect Ferrari to punch sic, which is the centre of the universe here. here!” as a show would ensure that it be discussed on the sidelines of the sport for us,” he said in one back hard here this weekend so we can’t “And the food is great too – the pancakes!” Hamilton has a 67 points lead ahead of Vettel remains pivotal in the sport.” the season-ending WTA Finals in answer. “He’s one of the greats relax in any way. Prompted by a series of questions from with four races remaining. At the moment, on-court coach- Singapore next week. from the beginning. It’s crazy ing is only allowed in WTA events “To attract new fans, you need to for me to think that l am em- but not on the men’s ATP Tour or get them emotionally involved. barking on a similar number of on Instagram, following his and (Grand Prix Drivers’ Associa- years that I’ve been in Formula top, but there have been several at the four Grand Slams. You want spectators and TV view- championships that he had.” Ferrari’s recent slump in form. tion) and I think we all need to One. Ultimately as a four-time times where I’ve been in the fi r- In September, Williams was ers to have opinions about the He also explained why he had “I think if I was in the same stick together. And I think the world champion, it is the most ing range and Seb has always warned for coaching when players – and the coaches – and recently defended and sup- position they would do the same respect that we have for one intense year that we’ve had. been really respectful in sup- Mouratoglou was spotted mak- to know who they like and don’t ported the luckless, under-fi re thing,” he said. “As drivers, we other is the best that it has been “Every hiccup is magnifi ed, porting me so I thought it was ing signals from the players box like,” added Mouratoglou. Vettel, with a social media post are all members of the GPDA for many years, at least in the as it is with any sport at the only just to do the same.” Gulf Times 4 Friday, October 19, 2018 SPORT

BOXING BADMINTON Mayweather says Nurmagomedov fi ght will happen Saina in Denmark AFP Pacquiao says ‘90 percent’ sure will Los Angeles Open quarter-fi nals face Broner in January IANS ments and powerful smashes ormer world welter- Philippine boxing idol Manny Mayweather, 41, said in Sep- Odense, Denmark helped her to advance in the weight boxing champion Pacquiao said a January fight tember he would come out of meet. Floyd Mayweather in the US with American Adr- retirement to face Pacquiao Saina will now take on former insisted Wednesday he ien Broner is almost certain, later this year in a rematch tar Indian shuttler Saina world champion Nozomi Okua- plansF to fi ght mixed martial arts Nehwal stormed into hara in the quarters. but he dodged the mounting of their 2015 superfight that star Khabib Nurmagomedov speculation of a possible earned both men millions. the quarter-fi nals of the In other matches, Sameer Ver- following the Russian’s victory rematch with rival Floyd May- However, no concrete plans Denmark Open, defeating ma advanced, defeating Jonatan over Conor McGregor. secondS seed Akane Yamaguchi Christie of Indonesia in a 23-21, weather. have emerged for that contest In comments to the TMZ Pacquiao, 39, pumped new life and Mayweather subsequently in the second round match here 6-21, 22-20 marathon match of Sports website, Mayweather into his storied but slowing said he would be back “for a yesterday. more than an hour. was adamant that a fi ght with boxing career in July when he huge boxing event” in Tokyo In a match which lasted 36 In the women’s doubles cat- Nurmagomedov was “happen- delivered his first knockout in before fighting Pacquiao. minutes, the Hyderabadi shut- egory, Ashwini Ponnappa and N. ing” provided it took place in the nine years in a bout against Asked at the event Wednes- tler outplayed Japanese shut- Sikki Reddy also made it to the boxing ring. Lucas Matthysse of Argentina. day about another bout with tler Yamaguchi 21-15, 21-17 in next round as they edged past Asked by a TMZ if a fi ght with Since then Pacquiao has Mayweather is in the off ing, straight games. Lee So Hee and Shin Seung Chan Nurmagomedov would take defied calls to retire and Pacquiao said “it is not yet Right from the start, Saina of South Korea. The Indian duo place, the 41-year-old replied: promised to fight again, which finalised”. seemed positive and played ag- defeated their opponent 18-21, “Oh, we’re fi ghting.” has prompted unclear reports Ahead of the fight against big- gressively. Her swift court move- 22-20, 21-18 in an hour’s match. “I’m my own boss. I can’t say 0) would be certain to generate ter the win to trade blows with about a range of possible punching Matthysse, Pacquiao what’s going on on Khabib’s end, another bumper payday if they members of McGregor’s entou- contenders. said he considered himself the but on my end we can make it do fi ght. rage while other members of But at a charity function late “underdog”, but he rolled back SPOTLIGHT happen,” Mayweather said. “When I face Khabib, I’m Nurmagomedov’s support leapt Wednesday in Manila Pac- the years in the July bout. Mayweather, who came out of getting a nine-fi gure payday,” into the octagon at T-Mobile quiao told reporters “Broner, It was a dominant display as retirement to defeat McGregor Mayweather said. “More than Arena to attack the beaten Irish Adrien Broner”. Pacquiao registered the 60th in a money-spinning fi ght in Las the McGregor fi ght. Probably fi ghter. He added that he preferred to win of a fabled 23-year career Ex-Kenyan Olympic Vegas last year, stressed though $100mn more, guaranteed. It Nurmagomedov has also spo- face the former four-division that is now nearly sure to ex- that any fi ght with Nurmago- could be somewhere upwards of ken enthusiastically about fac- world champion on either tend beyond his 40th birthday medov would take place under $110mn to $200mn guaranteed.” ing Mayweather. January 12 or 19, “probably” in in December. chief, ex-minister boxing rules. Nurmagomedov is facing “Let’s go Floyd. We have to Las Vegas. Pacquiao, who is also a sena- “Who’s the A-side? He called possible disciplinary action in fi ght now: 50-0 versus 27-0. We “It is almost final but it is not tor in the Philippines, lost his me out, so he have to come to my Nevada following the stormy are two guys who never lose. In yet there,” Pacquiao said, World Boxing Organization surrender to police world,” Mayweather said. end to his victory over McGre- the jungle there is only one king. adding that the match was welterweight title to unfan- Mayweather, who boasts a gor. Of course, I am the king because “90 percent” likely to push cied Australian Jeff Horn in AFP pic boss in September perfect 50-0 record and the The Russian fi ghter jumped he cannot drop McGregor but I through. Brisbane last year. Nairobi 2017 by former mara- unbeaten Nurmagomedov (27- into the crowd immediately af- drop him easily. Let’s go.” thon world record holder Paul Tergat, ormer Kenyan faces one count of al- GOLF Olympic chief locating his son Ian Kipchoge Kipchoge Keino 2.5mn Keino and ex- shillings for air tickets Fsports minister Has- and allowances during san Wario surrendered the 2016 Olympics. to police yesterday to Keino, who was answer charges of cor- recalled from an of- ruption at the 2016 Rio fi cial trip to Mexico to Olympics. face the charges, has denied any Reavie leads at CJ Keino, 78, a two-time Olympic wrongdoing. gold medallist, and Wario have “I was not a signatory of the been charged along with fi ve government money for the 2016 former government and national Olympic Games,” Keino told AFP Olympic committee offi cials over on Wednesday after he arrived the misappropriation of more from Mexico City, where he took than 55mn shillings ($545,000). part in an awards ceremony in Three of the offi cials ap- honour of the heroes of the 1968 Cup aft er winds peared in court on Monday, but Olympics. Kipchoge and Wario, who is Keino won gold in the 1,500 now serving as Kenyan envoy to metres and silver in the 5,000m World number three Koepka Austria, were said to be out the at those Games. country. “My role as the chairman of the had the best score of the PGA After they surrendered to po- National Olympic committee of lice, the duo are expected to ap- Kenya (NOCK) was to make sure Tour heavyweights with a 71 pear in court, along with two that the teams were catered for play havoc other former ministry of sports during their preparations for the offi cials, today to face the charg- Rio Olympic Games,” Keino said. Reuters es. Kenya had its most success- Seoul Wario will face six counts of ful Olympics in Rio, winning six abuse of offi ce while Keino, who gold medals, six silvers and one was replaced as Kenyan Olym- bronze, all in athletics. merican Chez Reavie hit a four-under-par 68 to take a one-shot lead after the opening Woods blames fatigue for Ryder dayA of the PGA Tour’s CJ Cup as Cup fl op high South Korean winds played havoc with the rounds of the ex- Tiger Woods on Wednesday blamed his dismal Ryder Cup pected contenders on Jeju Island form on tiredness, citing a lack of physical preparation after yesterday. a demanding comeback from injury. Woods lost all four of his The world number 64, whose Ryder Cup matches in Paris last month as the United States were only tour win came a decade ago crushed 17.5 to 10.5 by a rampant Europe. The 14-time major at the Canadian Open, carded winner had forced his way back into the American playing ranks his fi fth birdie at the 16th hole to after a strong comeback season which included an emotional ease to the front of the fi eld and victory at the Tour Championship in Atlanta on September 23. deny former US Masters cham- However the 42-year-old believes the physical toll of his first full pion Danny Willett a morale- season back on the PGA Tour after missing virtually all of the boosting lead. previous two years finally caught up with him. “It was just a cu- Willett, who has endured two mulative eff ect of the entire season,” Woods said on the sidelines years of miserable form since his of the Tiger Woods Invitational in California, an amateur event shock 2016 Augusta triumph, that benefits his charitable foundation. “I was tired because I showed signs of a resurgence af- hadn’t trained for it. I hadn’t trained this entire comeback to play ter brushing aside an early bogey this much golf, and on top of that, deal with the heat and the to notch three successive birdies fatigue and the loss of weight.” from the fourth. Two more at the ninth and Ariya seizes early lead in inaugural 12th gave him a clear lead at four-under but the world Shanghai event number 342 lipped out with a straightforward par putt at the World number two Ariya Jutanugarn shot a blemish-free 66 to 13th and he had to settle for a take the first-round lead in the inaugural Buick LPGA Shanghai share of second with local Kim tournament yesterday. The Thai golfer, who took the US Wom- Si-woo after signing for a 69. en’s Open crown earlier this year and is gunning for her fourth Last year’s Player’s Champi- win of the season, birdied holes four through six to start hot and onship winner Kim dealt well cruise to six-under for the day. Kim Sei-young of South Korea with the conditions after a dou- and Danielle Kang of the United States tied for second after each ble bogey start and his six birdies posted a 5-under 67 at the par-72 Qi Zhong Garden Golf Club. kept him a shot ahead of com- Chez Reavie of the US prepares to tee off on the first hole during the first round of the CJ Cup golf in Jeju Island, South Korea, yesterday. (AFP) Co-sanctioned by the US LPGA and the China LPGA, the new patriot An Byeong-hun, who Shanghai event becomes just the second off icial LPGA tourna- fl irted with the lead but fi nished birdies and bogeys, highlighted by ed for a double bogey. SCORECARD (USA), Adam Hadwin (CAN), ment staged in China. The event, with a $2.1mn purse, joins the with a 70 after two late bogeys. a monster putt at the eighth. Australian major winners 68 — Chez Reavie (USA) Hideki Matsuyama (JPN), Paul Blue Bay LPGA, which tees of next month on southern China’s That was enough for a share Like his fellow American and Adam Scott and Jason Day played 69 — Danny Willett (ENG), Kim Casey (ENG) Hainan Island. A pack of six golfers were tied at four-under 68 in of fourth place at the $9.5 mil- playing partner Koepka, de- together, with the latter matching Si-Woo (KOR) 72 — Louis Oosthuizen (RSA), Shanghai, including world number five Minjee Lee of Australia, lion tournament with six others, fending champion Justin Tho- Thomas’s 73 and the former man- 70 — An Byeong-Hun (KOR), Rod Ryan Palmer (USA), Mun Do- Paula Creamer of the United States and New Zealand’s Lydia Ko. including American Scott Piercy mas could take top spot in the aging only a 75 for a share of 54th Pampling (AUS), Michael Kim yeob (KOR), Lee Tae-hee (KOR), who chipped in for an eagle at world rankings with a victory on despite a delightful downhill putt (USA), Ian Poulter (ENG), Scott Tyrell Hatton (ENG), Pat Perez Swede Moberg wins World Hickory the par-fi ve third hole. Sunday but he has some ground for a birdie at the ninth. Piercy (USA), Nick Watney (USA), (USA), Charles Howell III (USA), World number three Brooks to make up after an opening 73. Their compatriot Marc Leish- Austin Cook (USA) Kyle Stanley (USA), Ryan Moore Golf Championship Koepka had the best score of the Last year’s Fedex Cup cham- man, who won the CIMB Classic 71 — Brooks Koepka (USA), (USA), Joel Dahmen (USA), PGA Tour heavyweights with a pion’s round never really re- in Malaysia on Sunday, also shot Patton Kizzire (USA), Maeng Jimmy Walker (USA), Brandt Swedish professional Johan Moberg expertly wielded his niblick, one-under 71 for a share of 11th covered from a calamity at the a 75 after struggling with the Dong-Seop (KOR), Graeme Snedeker (USA), Jason Dufner mashie and other pre-1936 wooden golf clubs through the blus- but his round was a typical mix of fourth hole where he four-putt- conditions. McDowell (ENG), J.J. Spaun (USA),a Jamie Lovemark (USA) tery Scottish weather to become the World Hickory golf cham- pion. Dressed in a bow tie, flatcap and with traditional plus four golfing trousers, Moberg edged out more than 120 amateurs and professionals to land the title which celebrates the sport’s Garcia makes strong start to Valderrama title defence heritage. “The feeling is tremendous,” the Swedish professional said after his two round total of 144 on Wednesday. He joins an AFP clubhouse lead. Bourdy, who may need to win bogey of the day, but was de- to improve but overall it was a elite group of past winners, which include former US Masters Sotogrande, Spain Half of the field will finish their this week to keep his European lighted with his opening eff ort. good day.” and British Open champion Sandy Lyle. The event, which started opening rounds today after Tour card, one shot behind. “Any time you shoot under The world number 31 has had in 2005 when a small group assembled for a friendly game on lengthy delays due to thunder- The tournament host Garcia par on this course — it doesn’t a diff icult season, although the Old Course at Musselburgh, was played on two courses this ergio Garcia got off to a storms in Andalusia. has won six of his 14 European matter about the conditions — was impressive as a wildcard year; at Luff ness New golf club and Gullane 3, East Lothian, 14 quick start in his bid for a England’s Ashley Chesters Tour titles in his home country, you’re happy. So I’m obviously in Europe’s Ryder Cup victory miles (22km) east of Edinburgh. Competitors play with original Sthird consecutive Valder- claimed the clubhouse including this event in the last happy about it,” he told europe- last month, but is favourite to or replica hickory shafted clubs carried in a thin, leather bag. rama Masters title yesterday, as advantage with back-to-back two editions in 2011 and 2017. antour.com. win in Spain and is ranked 56 Hickory clubs are notoriously unforgiving and hitting the ball a three-under-par 68 left him birdies closing out a five-under The 38-year-old was four-under “I saw a lot of great things and places higher than anyone else long distances is tricky. Rhythm and balance is required rather just two strokes off the early 66, with Frenchman Gregory through 11 holes before his lone a couple of things that we need in the field. than force and accuracy. Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 5 SPORT

MLB NHL Niskanen’s OT Bradley and Red Sox goal sends Caps past Rangers push Astros to brink Reuters three straight. Carey Price made New York 23 saves. Vince Dunn and Brayden Winner of the series Schenn scored for the Blues, who att Niskanen scored have lost fi ve of six, and Allen will face either with 2:42 left in had 20 saves. overtime to give the of elimination Dodgers or Brewers host Washington FLAMES 5, BRUINS 2 MCapitals a 4-3 victory over the Michael Frolik scored twice, and AFP New York Rangers on Wednes- rookie defenseman Juuso Vali- Los Angeles day night. maki scored his fi rst NHL goal Niskanen notched his fi rst goal as Calgary cruised past visiting of the season at the right time. Boston. he Boston Red Sox are Evgeny Kuznetsov fi red a shot Johnny Gaudreau and Mat- one win away from a from the left side that New York thew Tkachuk also scored for the World Series berth after goalie Henrik Lundqvist got a Flames, and goalie Mike Smith a wild 8-6 victory over glove on but could not control. was sensational in making 24 Tthe reigning champion Hou- The puck bounced away from the saves. The Bruins had a four- ston Astros Wednesday in the goalie and over to Niskanen, who game winning streak snapped in American League Champion- got behind Lundqvist and put it their fi rst of four straight road ship Series. into the net. games. The Red Sox took a 3-1 lead in The victory snapped Wash- Patrice Bergeron and Brad the best-of-seven series, push- ington’s two-game losing streak. Marchand scored for Boston. ing last season’s winners to the Alex Ovechkin fi nished with two Goalie Tuukka Rask, who made brink of elimination in Houston goals. John Carlson added one 24 saves, lost to the Flames in in a game marked by a contro- goal and two assists. Nicklas regulation for the fi rst time. Rask versial denial of what might Backstrom also had two assists in went into the game with a 6-0-3 have been an Astros homer and the victory. Goalie Braden Holtby career record against Calgary. yet another monster homer fi nished with 29 saves for Wash- from Boston’s Jackie Bradley Jr. ington. DUCKS 4, ISLANDERS 1 Boston seized the early initia- Lundqvist had 34 saves for Ryan Kesler scored two goals, tive in the see-saw battle with the Rangers, who got goals from and John Gibson made 34 saves two runs in the top of the fi rst Mika Zibanejad, Jimmy Vesey to lead host Anaheim past New inning. and Chris Kreider. York. In the bottom of the frame, Adam Henrique and Ham- Houston’s Jose Altuve belted CANADIENS 3, BLUES 2 pus Lindholm also scored for what looked to be a game-tying Brendan Gallagher scored with the Ducks, who won for the fi fth two-run homer to right fi eld off 10.5 seconds remaining to lift time in seven games to start the Red Sox starting pitcher Rick host Montreal to a win over season. It was Kesler’s fi rst mul- Porcello. struggling St. Louis. ti-goal game since Jan. 1, 2017, Outfi elder Mookie Betts leapt An errant pass by St. Louis when he had a hat trick against at the wall but offi cials ruled that defenseman Colton Parayko was the Philadelphia Flyers. fans in the stands reached out and chipped by Tomas Tatar to Gal- Gibson lost his shutout with 35 interfered with the play — a ruling lagher, who popped the puck seconds left when Casey Cizikas that was upheld on review. Boston Red Sox right fielder Mookie Betts (left) douses center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. with a sports drink after defeating the Houston Astros over Blues goaltender Jake Al- was credited with a goal off a Astros manager AJ Hinch in game three of the 2018 ALCS playoff baseball series in Houston, Texas, on Wednesday. (USA TODAY Sports) len for the game-winning goal, Ross Johnson defl ection of a shot clearly thought it was a dubious his fourth. Max Domi and Mike from the point. Thomas Greiss call, but insisted it wasn’t the a two-out, fi rst-pitch change- face either the Los Angeles Milwaukee with a 3-2 lead in the The Dodgers, who led the Na- Reilly each had their fi rst goals fi nished with 21 saves for the Is- key to Houston’s defeat. up from Houston pitcher Josh Dodgers or Milwaukee Brew- National League Championship tional League with 235 homers, for Montreal, which has won landers. “It’s convenient to think of it James into the right fi eld seats ers in Major League Baseball’s Series was “huge”. drove in all but one of their runs that way, but there was a lot of for a two-run homer that put championship showcase. “It’s a tough place to play,” he with singles. game left,” Hinch said. “There Boston up 6-5. said of the Brewers’ roofed sta- After getting their fi rst hit in was a lot of action in that game. The Red Sox wouldn’t trail ‘HUGE’ DODGERS VICTORY dium. “It’s a great team. And it’s the fourth inning, the Dodgers I’m not going to go there. It again, adding runs in the sev- The Dodgers, beaten in seven been a battle every single game put up their fi rst run in the fi fth, would have been nice to tie the enth and eighth before the As- games by the Astros in last year’s we’ve played them so far, and we when Chris Taylor got things game there, but it’s not the dif- tros notched their sixth in the World Series, were one win away don’t expect anything diff erent rolling with a leadoff single, ference.” bottom of the eighth. from a return trip after a 5-2 vic- when we go back.” reached second on a throwing Betts thought the call was Houston threatened in the tory over the Brewers in Los An- Kershaw was in trouble in the error and stole third. He scored spot-on, and he’d have made ninth, but Red Sox left fi elder geles on Wednesday. third, when the Brewers scored on a base hit by Austin Barnes the catch if not for interference Andrew Benintendi made a div- Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw, their only run, but with the past a drawn-in outfi eld. from the fan. ing catch with the bases loaded who endured the shortest post- bases loaded he struck out Jesus They added two more in the “He got it right,” Betts said. “I for the fi nal out. season outing of his career Los Aguilar in an eight pitch at bat sixth, chasing weary Brewers thought it was going in my glove Game fi ve was scheduled Angeles’ game one loss at Mil- to end the frame and retired the pitcher Brandon Woodruff in the for sure.” for later yesterday in Houston, waukee last week, bounced back next 12 batters he faced. process. The Red Sox trailed 4-5 after where the Astros send ace Justin with seven stellar innings. “Anytime you can work your- The Dodgers stretched the a string of lead changes head- Verlander to the mound in a bid He gave up one run on three self out of situations like that advantage to 5-1 with two runs ing into the sixth when Bradley to keep their season alive. hits, striking out nine and walk- that’s going to make or break the in the seventh before the Brew- struck again for Boston, lasering The winner of the series will ing two and said heading back to game,” Kershaw said. ers tacked on a run in the ninth. Washington Capitals’ Matt Niskanen celebrates with teammates Evgeny Kuznetsov (left) and Andre Burakovsky (right) after scoring NBA the game-winning goal against the New York Rangers in Washington, DC, on Wednesday. (USA TODAY Sports) Davis shines as Pelicans rout NFL London features Rockets in season opener surging Chargers,

AFP RESULTS inconsistent Titans Los Angeles Detroit 103-100 Brooklyn Reuters fl ying out to London yesterday. The players weren’t complaining Indiana 111-83 Memphis New York nthony Davis scored 32 points about the travel. and Elfrid Payton fi nished with Orlando 104-101 Miami “We’re on a road trip, we get to a triple double as the New Orle- Milwaukee 113-112 Charlotte utside of royal wed- go to London and we play in the ans Pelicans got their NBA sea- dings, the biggest blow- NFL,” receiver Tyrell Williams sonA off to a roaring start by clobbering the New York 126-107 Atlanta outs in London lately said. “If you’ve got complaints Houston Rockets 131-112 on Wednesday. Toronto 116-104 Cleveland have been NFL games. with that, you’ve got something Davis also had 16 rebounds and eight OThe last fi ve contests played wrong with you.” New Orleans 131-112 Houston assists and Payton fi nished with 10 in England have been no contest, The Titans have lost two in a points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists for the San Antonio 112-108 Minnesota decided by an average margin of row, but are in a three-way tie for Pelicans, who led wire-to-wire. Utah 123-117 Sacramento 26.2 points. the AFC South lead with Hou- “I am just taking what the defence Denver 107-98 LA Clippers The Los Angeles Chargers (4- ston and Jacksonville. gives me,” said Davis. “It is only game 2) and the Tennessee Titans (3-3) Tennessee counters the LA one. It is a good win but we still got a lot Phoenix 121-100 Dallas look to stage a more competitive off ense with the league’s No. 3 of work to do. and more entertaining eff ort on scoring defense at 17.8 points per “To come out with a win against a team off the bench, fi nished with nine points Sunday at Wembley Stadium, game, with only Dallas (17.2) and like that after the season they had and on three of 10 shooting in 27 minutes of where a London-record 84,922 Baltimore (12.8) allowing fewer. coming off the season we had, we wanted playing time. fans saw Seattle whip Oakland This is Tennessee’s fi rst regular to come out and set a tempo.” 27-3 last weekend. season game at an overseas loca- The Pelicans’ dominating win in front LEONARD WINS IN DEBUT The Chargers have won three tion. As the Houston Oilers, they of a crowd of 18,000 at Toyota Center Elsewhere, Kawhi Leonard had 24 points straight and four of their last played preseason games in Tokyo arena in Texas was one of 11 games in the and 12 rebounds in his Toronto debut as fi ve, with their only losses to the in 1992 and Mexico City in 1994. fi rst full night of the 2018-19 NBA season. the Raptors beat the Cleveland Cavaliers teams with the best records in The Titans won’t have starting League Most Valuable Player James New Orleans Pelicans’ Anthony Davis (right) handles the ball while Houston Rockets’ 116-104 in the season opener for both the NFC (6-0 LA Rams) and AFC outside linebacker Derrick Mor- Harden fl irted with a triple double, fi n- James Harden defends during the game on Wednesday. (USA TODAY Sports) teams. (5-1 Kansas City). gan (shoulder), but defensive lin- ishing with 18 points, 10 assists and nine Fred VanVleet added 14 points, while Los Angeles has the league’s eman Bennie Logan (elbow) was rebounds, but it wasn’t enough as the said Davis. “We executed our game plan riors. Pascal Siakam fi nished with 13 as Nick fi fth highest-scoring off ense and a full participant in Wednesday’s Rockets failed to match New Orleans’ to the T. When we play like this we will be “It is the fi rst game of 82. We will right Nurse made his head coaching debut for is the only NFL team to score at practice after missing last week’s season-opening intensity, especially on tough to beat.” the ship today, tomorrow, and the next the Raptors. least three off ensive touchdowns game. Quinton Spain (shoulder) defence. Many thought the Pelicans’ 2017-18 sea- day,” said D’Antoni. Kevin Love scored 21 points for Cleve- in every game. Melvin Gordon is did not practice, while safety Nikola Mirotic delivered 30 points and son was done when Cousins went down in “We kind of let go of the rope at the end land who are rebuilding after losing LeB- one of two players (Pittsburgh’s Kenny Vaccaro (elbow) and line- 10 rebounds in the blowout as the Peli- mid-season with an Achilles injury. New of the fi rst half. We obviously have some ron James to the Los Angeles Lakers. James Conner) with at least 450 backer Wesley Woodyard (shoul- cans led by as many as 29 points. Orleans rallied together and swept Portland things to work on. We’ve got to get our The win was a modest measure of re- rushing and 250 receiving yards, der) were limited. Payton and Julius Randle were the two in the fi rst round of the playoff s. legs and then go after it.” venge for Toronto who were eliminated and Philip Rivers is third in the For the Chargers, kicker Caleb biggest additions in the off season. And Rockets coach Mike D’Antoni expected Eric Gordon scored a team-high 21 from the playoff s by Cleveland the last NFL with 15 touchdown passes. Sturgis (quad), center Mike with DeMarcus Cousins and Rajon Rondo more on opening night from his expe- points. Chris Paul and PJ Tucker had 19 three seasons. This is the Bolts’ second ap- Pouncey (knee) and tight end Vir- moving to other teams, the Pelicans are rienced squad. Houston was the most points each for the Rockets, who are try- San Antonio forward DeMar DeRo- pearance at Wembley, having gil Green (ribs) were limited par- going to have to develop a new personal- prolifi c three-point shooting team in the ing to replace outgoing defensive special- zan scored 28 points in his Spurs debut lost 37-32 to New Orleans there ticipants in practice Wednesday. ity this season. NBA last season when they fi nished with ists Trevor Ariza and Mbah a Moute with Wednesday after he was acquired from in 2008. The Chargers have won eight “We are not going to shoot the ball this a franchise record 65-17 win-loss record. ageing veteran Carmelo Anthony and Toronto for Leonard in the off season. After last week’s 38-14 win of nine meetings with the Ti- well every night but tonight we did a great They took the NBA by storm and many journeyman James Ennis. LaMarcus Aldridge added 21 points against the Browns, the Charg- tans since the franchise relo- job imposing our will on defence which consider them a legitimate threat this Reserve Anthony, who bristled in the and 19 rebounds as the Spurs defeated the ers remained in Cleveland to cated from Houston in 1997. Both led to a lot of fast break opportunities,” year to dethrone the Golden State War- past about the idea of having to come Minnesota Timberwolves 112-108. practice for a few days before teams have a bye next week. Gulf Times 6 Friday, October 19, 2018 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE Rubin handed one-year UEFA ban for over-spending

Russian side Rubin Kazan have been suspended from European competition for one season after breaking UEFA’s financial fair play (FFP) regulations, Eu- ropean football’s ruling body said. The Emery urges Ramsey ban will come into eff ect if Rubin qualify for either the Champions League or Europa League in 2019/20 or 2020/21. Currently fifth in the Russian Premier League, Rubin did not qualify for Europe this season. UEFA’s financial fair play rules stipulate that a club cannot spend more than their generated rev- to keep focus despite enue. French league giants Paris Saint- Germain are in the midst of a UEFA FFP probe after spending more than 400m euros in the 2017 transfer market.

Vidal fi ned 800,000 euros uncertain future for Munich nightclub fi ght Barcelona midfielder Arturo Vidal has been hit with a 800,000 euros fine by a Munich court after being found guilty Midfielder set to leave at end of season or in January after Arsenal pulled out of negotiation of assault during a nightclub fight last year. Munich district court fined the By Amy Lawrence Chile international based on 80 days The Guardian worth of wages, calculated to be 10,000 euros per day for the Barcelona player, who left Bayern Munich in August after nai Emery has challenged three years with the German giants. Aaron Ramsey to keep his The 31-year-old was not in court in performances up while his Munich to hear the judge’s verdict as he contract runs down. played in Chile’s 1-0 win over Mexico, UThe midfi elder, whose deal expires which “professionally prevented” his ap- in the summer with negotiations fro- pearance in Bavaria, his lawyer said. zen, is keen to see out the season at Ar- senal rather than leave in January, and Emery’s only concern is that Ramsey’s Hearts title hopes hit by performances and motivation stay on injuries to Souttar, Ikpeazu track. “I want his performance to be like Surprise Scottish Premiership leaders another player,” the manager said.“At Hearts have been dealt a double injury the last match he started on the bench, blow with central defender John Souttar played 35 minutes. For Monday against and striker Uche Ikpeazu both ruled out Leicester if he starts in fi rst XI or the for at least five months. Hearts lead the bench his focus must be to help us in league by two points from Edinburgh the match, the same as any player.” rivals Hibs with champions Celtic three Ramsey was a central cog in a sub- points back in third and Steven Ger- lime team goal during Arsenal’s 5-1 rard’s Rangers five points adrift down win at Fulham before the international in sixth after eight games. However, the break. He missed playing for Wales loss of Souttar and Ikpeazu is a body against the Republic of Ireland to be blow to hopes of mounting an unlikely with his wife as she had twins. title challenge. Souttar tore the lining of The player has a lot going on but his hip while on Scotland duty last week Emery is hopeful the 27-year-old can and could miss the next six months as focus on games to help keep Arsenal’s a result. Powerful striker Ikpeazu has winning run going.“January is very scored four goals in 10 games. far,” Emery said. “I want every player to stay with the mentality and prepa- ration to play together to win. The fu- Slovakia coach resigned ture is tomorrow, not more. Individual aft er player party things are not for now.” Emery has been stressing to his team Outgoing Slovakia coach Jan Kozak that they must not be complacent as said he had resigned after finding seven they seek their 10th successive win in players returning late from a party fol- all competitions. “The diffi culty now lowing a 2-1 loss to arch-rivals Czech Re- is not relaxing,” he said. “We need to Aaron Ramsey (left) rounds off the sublime team goal during Arsenal’s 5-1 victory at Fulham. (AFP) public last weekend. “It hurt terribly, as continue with every big demand on if someone spat all over me. Like a slap ourselves for each match, thinking our at Fulham but the fi rst 45 minutes we ager Arsene Wenger that the German Wenger, who left Arsenal in May af- want every day to fi nd this in every in the face,” Kozak, a 64-year-old former next match is most important.” need to do better. In the last match at playmaker’s retirement from interna- ter 22 years in charge, said earlier this player.” midfielder. “I’m terribly disappointed,” The supporters seemed to feel a cor- the Emirates we won but not playing tional football could aff ect his motiva- week that Ozil should come out of in- Ozil, who missed Arsenal’s 5-1 vic- he added, naming Martin Dubravka, ner had been turned at Fulham when like we want with the control we want tion. Ozil quit international football ternational retirement because other- tory at Fulham earlier this month with Milan Skriniar, Norbert Gyomber and they chanted about getting their Ar- … We need to continue working with shortly after returning from the World wise he “loses a bit” of his drive. a back spasm, is available for Monday’s Stanislav Lobotka among the seven. He senal back but Emery is quick to warn calm. Our target now is the same as Cup in Russia. He had been widely “His motivation is very clear. We game. Arsenal resume their Premier added Dubravka blamed his “diff icult them not to get carried away. “I am not the fi rst matches when we lost against criticised for posing with Turkish need every player with a big motiva- League campaign with a mostly fi t patch” at Newcastle and the loss to the agreeing,” he said. “We need to im- Man City and Chelsea.” President Tayyip Erdogan in a photo- tion every day, in training, with con- squad. The defender Sokratis Papas- Czechs, Lobotka said he “had to time to prove a lot. Supporters can enjoy with Emery said he is not concerned graph in May. The 30-year-old said he tinuing improving and helping us with tathopoulos picked up a minor strain relax” at Vigo, while former Manchester us but we are speaking with our real- about Mesut Ozil’s desire to perform had also faced “racism and disrespect” his quality,” Emery said. “The same with Greece and Petr Cech is close to City midfielder Vladimir Weiss said he ity every day. It was a very good result despite a suggestion by former man- because of his Turkish roots. with Mesut as any other player. We full fi tness. did not know why he had joined party.

FOCUS SERIE A Bolt rejects Malta contract off er Milan’s Higuain not bitter despite AFP Sydney Juventus trading up with Ronaldo print superstar Usain Bolt has turned down AFP in his fi rst derby against city ri- a contract from Mal- Milan vals Inter Milan on Sunday — has tese champions Valletta scored four goals for Milan to andS will remain in Australia to bring his tally to 115 since his ar- pursue his dream of becoming C Milan striker rival in Serie A in 2013 from Real a professional footballer, his Gonzalo Higuain said Madrid. “Milan have given me agent said yesterday. yesterday he was not something more after a World The eight-time Olympic bitter despite being Cup which wasn’t great,” he said. champion has been on trial “kickedA out” by Juventus after “I’ve found what I was looking with A-League club the Central superstar Cristiano Ronaldo’s for.” Coast Mariners since arriving arrival last summer. Juventus Higuain joined Napoli in 2013 Down Under in August. signed Higuain from Napoli for after six years with Real Madrid He scored two goals in a pre- 90mn euros in 2016, but after the where he won three La Liga titles. season friendly last Friday but surprise arrival of Ronaldo from But he blamed Napoli president is yet to be off ered a deal, with Real Madrid for 100mn euros this Aurelio De Laurentiis for leaving cashed-up Valletta dangling summer, the Italian giants could the club on bad terms. “(Ezequiel) a two-year trial-free con- not aff ord to keep the Argentine. Sport. old club where he won two Serie Lavezzi left on bad terms, (Ed- tract to entice him away ear- Higuain — loaned to AC Milan “The decision to leave was A and Italian Cup trophies. “No, inson) Cavani the same. With lier this week. But Bolt’s agent with a 36-million-euro option not mine. I gave everything for not at all. I only feel aff ection be- (coach Maurizio) Sarri on the Ricky Simms said he had opted to buy — said he knew some- Juventus, I won several titles, cause they treated me very well,” bench he was already contacting against a move to the Maltese thing was afoot when he was left after which Cristiano arrived. said the 30-year-old. another coach. Everyone has had Premier League team, which is on the bench for the Italian Cup The club wanted to make a leap “My teammates and the fans problems with him and people backed by a group of investors fi nal against AC Milan in May. in quality and they told me that I treated me really well, but I never insult others. I have nothing neg- from the Sanban Group in the “That day, I had the feeling in- could not stay and that they were asked to leave. Basically, as eve- ative to say about the Napoli fans, United Arab Emirates. “There side me that maybe something trying to fi nd a solution. The best ryone says, they kicked me out. I those were three beautiful years. is a lot of interest in Usain play- Reports suggest the Mariners ers. “He’s been great among had broken down. And then they solution was Milan.” immediately felt great love from They loved me and now they hate ing football,” he told ESPN. “We are waiting for governing body the guys and I was very happy signed Ronaldo,” Higuain said in But Higuain said that he felt no Milan and they convinced me.” me. One day I’ll say what I think, regularly receive similar ap- Football Federation Australia for him last week with the two an interview with Gazzetto dello thoughts of revenge against his Higuain — who will take part but right now I can’t.” proaches. I can confi rm Usain to decide whether it will con- goals he scored, but we move does not wish to pursue this tribute to a potential Aus$3mn on.” opportunity in Malta.” (US$2.1mn) off er to the 100m Mariners captain Matt Si- Valletta chief executive world record holder. Sydney’s mon dismissed suggestions the Ghasston Slimen told the Daily Telegraph reported Bolt chronicles of Bolt were distract- ‘This is my home’ — Icardi committed to Inter broadcaster: “We wish Usain and Mielekamp sat down for a ing the squad ahead of their A- Bolt all the best with his foot- coff ee in the wake of the Malta League opener. “He’s been here Milan: Inter Milan captain Mauro Icardi — who has a release Milan at the San Siro. “I don’t see prize can come.” ball career. The Valletta FC off er off er for clarity on his future. for a couple of months now, so Icardi insisted yesterday that clause worth 110mn euros — a rivalry, he’s had a great career Luciano Spalletti’s side are is always on the table.” It said the 32-year-old, who everywhere we go with Usain, he was determined to reach an joined Inter from Serie A rivals and he’s a great striker. He’s third in Serie A, eight points Australia’s domestic A- regards Australia as a second everyone’s talking about him,” agreement for a new contract Sampdoria in 2013. The 25-year- what Milan were missing. We’ll behind leaders Juventus. They League season starts this week- home, might consider accept- Simon said. with the Serie A side. “I’m happy old has scored 112 goals for the be against each other in the travel to Barcelona in the Cham- end, with the Mariners in action ing less money if it means lock- “We’ve just been down to to stay here, I care about this club, and was the joint top-scor- game, but I’m calm and looking pions League next Wednesday. on Sunday away to Brisbane ing in a contract. Coach Mike business, concentrating on the team,” the Argentina striker said. er in Serie A with 29 last season. to do my best. Both teams have six points from Roar. With no contract, Bolt is Mulvey was reluctant to talk season and putting into practice “I could have left, there were “The renewal? I don’t know if it “It’s the game the city most two games in Group B which not eligible for selection. Club about Bolt, saying he was not what we’ve been doing at train- contacts (with other clubs), but will happen before Christmas, looks forward to. The goal for also includes Tottenham and chief executive Shaun Miele- involved in contract negotia- ing for the last 12 weeks.” Bolt, then I decided to stay here for we will look for a solution,” he Inter remains to reduce the PSV Eindhoven. “We had a great kamp said this week the Jamai- tions. who retired from athletics last myself and my family. I dreamed added. Icardi comes up against gap with Juventus and Napoli. I start in the Champions League, it can “will continue his indefi nite “I’m really not interested in year, has previously tried out of playing in the Champions compatriot Gonzalo Higuain in would like to win something with sets us up well for the Barcelona training period... until any fur- it (contract speculation) to tell with clubs in Germany, South League for Inter.” Sunday’s city derby against AC Inter, if you do things well the game,” Icardi added. ther notice”. you the truth,” he told report- Africa and Norway to no avail. Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 7 SPORT

PREMIER LEAGUE Qatar to host Olympic Games handball qualifi ers

Doha: The Asian Handball Tottenham’s Eriksen Federation (AHF) has chosen Qatar to host Asian men’s qualification tournament for the Olympic Games in Tokyo 2020. The qualification event will be organised from Octo- ber 17 to 27, 2019. The decision was taken fi t for West Ham clash during the meeting of the AHF Executive Committee held in Doha on the sidelines Denmark playmaker has not featured for the club since the victory at Brighton on September 22 of the 2018 IHF Super Globe, in the presence of Ahmad al- Reuters Shaabi, President of the Qatar London Handball Federation and Vice President of the AHF, and Yoshihide Watanabe (Japan) ottenham Hotspur playmaker and Mohamed Shafiq (Paki- Christian Eriksen has returned stan), Bader Diab and Ahmed to the squad for tomorrow’s Abu al-Lail (Kuwait), and Premier League trip to lowly members of the Executive TWest Ham United after recovering from Committee, as well as Jassim a stomach injury, manager Mauricio Diab, AHF Technical Manger. Pochettino said yesterday. For the second time in The Denmark playmaker has not fea- a row, Qatar will host the tured for the club since a 2-1 victory at qualification tournament for Brighton & Hove Albion on Sept. 22, the Olympic Games. In 2015, it leading his national team manager Age hosted the qualification event Hareide to claim the 26-year-old might for the Rio 2016 Olympic have a chronic abdominal condition. Games, during which Qatar’s “Christian is ready again to compete handball team qualified for and to play. We will decide on Satur- the first time. day if he will play from the beginning The AHF’s executive off ice or from the bench and I have noth- also assigned China to host ing to say about the comments from the Asian women’s qualifiers the Denmark coach,” Pochettino told for the Olympic Games from a news conference. Tottenham’s Bel- September 23-29, 2019, as gium international Mousa Dembele has well as the 7th Asian beach also started training after shaking off a handball championship for thigh problem while England midfi elder men and women (men’s and Dele Alli, who has been suff ering with women’s beach 2020 World a hamstring problem, is expected to be Cup qualifiers) in March 2019. back next week. It also decided to hold Pochettino welcomed the return the 21st Asian club league of his key players ahead of an impor- handball championship in tant run of fi xtures including games India from November 10 to 23, against Dutch side PSV Eindhoven in the third West Asian women’s the Champions League and Premier handball championship in League champions Manchester City Lebanon from February 6 to later this month. “It will be a tough 13, 2019, and the 15th Asian month of competition for us. There are women’s youth handball a lot of games ahead and it’s so impor- championship (2020 World tant to have nearly all the squad fi t to Cup qualifiers) in Lebanon compete and play and to give options to in July 2019, and the 22nd rotate and share the games,” Pochettino Asian club league handball added. championship in South Korea Tottenham have lost to Inter Milan in November 2019. and Barcelona in the Champions League The meeting also signed but are on a three-match winning run in the minutes of the previous the Premier League to sit fi fth with 18 meeting held in Kuwait on points from eight matches. Pochettino Midfielder Christian Eriksen has missed Spurs’ past four matches with an abdominal injury. (Reuters) August 3, 2017. It reviewed the hailed the club’s performances despite final reports of the 2017-2018 a number of England internationals in League but we have one more point (in keep fi ghting and we are very close to content with the club’s summer activity the table people were talking in a diff er- Asian Championships, the his squad enduring a gruelling World the Premier League) than last season,” the top of the table.” and Pochettino agreed with him. ent way, ‘Oh how clever are Tottenham schedule of AHF activities for Cup campaign in Russia earlier this year Pochettino said. Pochettino has no regrets over failing “It was diffi cult to buy the player we because they keep all the squad from 2019-2020, and decided to where they helped the national team to “I am not happy with that because we to add to his squad in the close season. needed,” Pochettino said. “That was last season’. After we lost some games all impose a fine of $30,000 on reach the semi-fi nals. are fi fth in the table and the ambition is Spurs became the fi rst side not to make impossible. I was happy and am happy the alarms started to make a big impact South Korea and Iraq after “I’ve to remind everyone this is our to be on the top but, at the same time, a summer signing since the transfer with the squad that I have, 25 players. in the perception. But I need to remind their fight during the eighth best start after eight games. The per- we are realistic and with all the circum- window was established. Chairman We have no regrets, we are happy. When everyone that this is our best start after Asian youth championship ception changed when we lost to Inter stances we suff ered in the summer with Daniel Levy hinted this week in a meet- we started the season with three games eight games, it is the best start in the held in Jordan. Milan and Barcelona in the Champions the World Cup and everything. But we ing with the Tottenham fans that he was that we won and we were up at the top of Premier League for Tottenham.”

SPOTLIGHT ROUND-UP Burnley’s Dyche understands why Al Duhail to play friendly match against Myanmar today

Heaton is looking towards exit By Sports Reporter latter’s AFC Champions League back in training as the Al Sadd Doha second-leg semi-fi nal against squad will leave for Iranian capi- Iran’s Persepolis this Tuesday. tal Tehran on Sunday to play their Duhail, coached by Tunisian AFC Champions League semi- NB Stars League reign- Nabil Maaloul, had drawn 1-1 fi nal second leg against Persepo- ing champions Al Du- with Al Gharafa in QSL Cup last lis. The match is scheduled at the hail will play a friendly week. The training sessions will Azadi Stadium on Tuesday. match against the My- continue and those who are on Ibrahim was missing in action anmarQ national team today. international duty are expected since Al Sadd’s 1-1 draw with Al The match, to kick off at the Al to be back in the team fold soon. Gharafa in Week 3 of this season’s Duhail Stadium at 5:45pm, has Al Duhail had 10 players in the QNB Stars League with a torn been scheduled as part of their Qatar and Olympic squads. muscle. He had been undergo- preparations for the forthcoming ing a rehabilitation programme. fi xtures in the QNB Stars League. MAJED BACK IN TRAINING Sadd, who have won the Asian Duhail’s this weekend game AS AL SADD TO LEAVE FOR title in 1989 and 2011, hope to against Al Sadd was deferred to TEHRAN ON SUNDAY overturn a 0-1 defeat to Persepo- 11th December because of the Defender Ibrahim Majed was lis in the fi rst leg in Doha.

BOTTOMLINE Manchester United’s Shaw agrees new fi ve-year contract

Reuters more to learn and I can’t wait to Manchester continue my progress under Jose Burnley captain Tom Heaton has lost his first choice spot to Joe Hart this season. (Reuters) Mourinho.” The BBC reported that the left- Reuters from. Heaton said he would be prepared to virtually since I’ve been here and he’s known anchester United de- back’s new deal would see him Burnley, England move clubs to get back into regular action me equally so they’re not diffi cult conversa- fender Luke Shaw earn 150,000 pounds a week. and Dyche was understanding of that view, tions. “The outcome might be diffi cult to has agreed a new His consistent performances for although he cautioned that he may not leav- fi nd because I think he’s top class and I want fi ve-year contract United have also earned him a urnley manager Sean Dyche says he ing mid-season may not be straightforward. him here,” he added. Mat the Premier League club after recall to the England squad after understands the frustration of the “In due course whatever needs to be Heaton joined Burnley from Bristol City a strong start to the season, the he was left out for their World club’s England international goal- worked out we will fi nd a way of working it in 2013 and has made 169 appearances for Premier League club announced Cup campaign in Russia earlier keeper Tom Heaton who has sug- out,” the Burnley boss said at a news confer- the club and been part of two promotion yesterday. Shaw’s United career this year. Shaw was a regular in gestedB he may have to leave the club in the ence yesterday. winning teams. has been interrupted by poor former United boss Louis van January transfer window after losing his “He knows for as long as he can know But the former Manchester United youth form and injuries since he joined Gaal’s team until he broke his place to Joe Hart. that he has a future here, it’s just what part team product, a popular fi gure with Burnley the club from Southampton for leg in two places against PSV Club captain Heaton, 32, lost his fi rst of that future is right for him at this stage. fans, accepts that the arrival of the expe- 27mn pounds ($35.37mn) in 2014, Eindhoven in September 2015. choice spot to Nick Pope at Burnley early I think he’s being realistic. Me and Tom go rienced Hart and impending return of the but the 23-year-old has started He missed two months of the last season after suff ering a shoulder injury back a long way, he was my fi rst signing highly-rated 26-year-old Pope, means he seven league games and scored year, said. “I want to thank eve- 2016-17 campaign with a groin and then a pre-season knock this year side- here, so we’ve got an open dialogue about faces a tricky future at Turf Moor. one goal this season. rybody that has stood by me and problem and then twice had op- lined him and allowed Hart to take over the what’s going on,” added Dyche who said “It doesn’t need a rocket scientist to see “Since I came to United, it’s shown me huge support — the erations on his foot. between the posts. Heaton had been “very unfortunate”. that it’s going to be diffi cult to fi t us all in,” been a whirlwind four years that management, my teammates and Shaw had struggled to get into With Pope, who was in England’s World Dyche said he had talked to Heaton but he said. “Come the January transfer win- have passed so quickly. I am very the fans. I want to let everyone Mourinho’s United team last Cup squad in Russia, expected to return in suggested a January solution might not be dow, I’ve got to keep my options open. The proud to sign my new contract know that I will give everything term, with the Portuguese criti- the coming weeks from his own shoulder easy to fi nd. “I think there’s been some fac- one thing I’ve been consistent about in and continue my stay at this I have to repay them and deliver cal of his attitude. But the man- injury, Dyche will fi nd himself with three tual conversations, he’s a good guy to speak my career is moving clubs in order to play great club,” Shaw, whose deal success over the years to come. ager said Shaw fully deserved his England international goalkeepers to choose to. It’s diff erent with Tom, I’ve known him games,” he said. also has the option of a further I’m still very young with a lot new contract.

Friday, October 19, 2018 GULF TIMES SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Xiao’s battle with Uchimura looms at Gymnastics Worlds Chinese’s World Championship win last year came after Uchimura had torn the ligament in his ankle during qualifying njured ankles permitting, severest pressure. The Beijing ing,” adds Xiao, who missed the six-time All-around world resident came from nearly six- Rio 2016 Games due to a de- Xiao Ruoteng has endured champion Kohei Uchimura tenths behind in the fi nal rotation bilitating year-long injury. “I’m a mixed 2018 so far. versus 2017 winner Xiao in Montreal to grab that elusive pretty confi dent in Chinese IRuoteng is set to be one of the gold. Xiao has, however, endured Gymnastics. But we still have clashes of the 2018 Artistic Gym- a mixed 2018 so far. In March, he many obstacles to overcome.” nastics World Championships in took silver on Parallel Bars at the The mad-keen football fan Doha. Xiao, for one, cannot wait FIG World Cup in Doha but could rates the Pommel Horse as his for the event to begin at Aspire only fi nish sixth on Horizon- favourite apparatus – because “it Dome from October 25. tal Bar and failed to qualify for requires less strength and more “I’m looking forward to seeing the Pommel Horse fi nal. It was a skills than other apparatus and what improvements we two have similar story of ‘almost but not besides, it’s safer” – and will be achieved during the last year,” quite’ at August’s Asian Games in hoping he shines on it once again Xiao Ruoteng told fi g-gymnas- Jakarta, Indonesia. “I’m glad that in Doha. First up, he will need to tics.com. “It will be a big chal- we won the team gold medal,” get in the zone. “I feel like I’m so lenge for me. There’s no doubt Xiao says. “But I’m not very sat- cool when I am performing my that Kohei Uchimura is one of isfi ed with my performance.” best,” Xiao says. “It makes me the top gymnasts. He’s the shin- He had to settle for silver on feel very good when I encounter ing one in the fi eld of Gymnastics Parallel Bars and bronze in both some unknown diffi culties and nowadays and I have learned a lot the All-around and on Horizon- try to overcome them. Such feel- from him.” tal Bar. The Games did, how- ing is the best part about being a While clearly respecting the ever, further signal the Chinese gymnast.” man who won every major All- squad’s welcome return to form. If he was not a gymnast, Xiao around Gymnastics title from competitor to win a major All- After the failure of any Chinese would spend all of his time on 2009 to 2016, China’s Xiao is around title since Yang Wei. “I gymnast to win an individual a football pitch. “I love it and clearly not in awe of the double proved my own value as a gym- medal at the Rio 2016 – the fi rst would love to devote myself to Olympic champion. “He’s more nast,” he asserts. “And I know time this had happened at an Ol- it,” he says. “The sport includes like a rival than a hero to me,” that my performance is accepted ympic Games since 1984 – China many capacities like personal Xiao confi rms. The 22-year- and appreciated by many people. comfortably topped the medals’ skills, team work and coopera- old’s World Championship win Though I’m still far away from table in Jakarta, thanks largely tion. To me, it’s very attractive.” in Montreal last year did come being a model in the fi eld, I’m to a tally of fi ve individual golds. Before all of that Xiao, who after Uchimura had torn the now ready to face and solve dif- This came on the back of China has been training three full days ligament in his left ankle dur- fi culties all the time.” also winning more medals than and three half days a week, has a ing qualifying, but despite this It clearly helps that Xiao any other nation at the 2017 duel to win – and another world Xiao has taken great confi dence showed the world, and himself, World Championships. championship title to pocket. from becoming the fi rst Chinese that he could perform under the “I do believe we are improv- (www.fi g-gymnastics.com)

ANNOUNCEMENT QNB STARS LEAGUE Six top hotels chosen to host Striker Borges makes instant gymnasts, offi cials of Doha Worlds impression at Al Rayyan By Sports Reporter Doha

l Rayyan’s new recruit Lucca Borges impressed by scoring a hat-trick in their 8-0 win over AlA Sadd in the QSL Cup last week. Much more is expected of the Brazilian striker as Rayyan look to make a turnaround in their fortunes. Ahead of their QNB Stars League clash with Al Gharafa, Lucca lavished his praise on the QNB Stars League in an interview. Excerpts:

You are playing outside your Ali al-Hitmi (fifth from right), Executive Director, and other off icials of the Organising Committee for World Gymnastics Doha with native country Brazil for the representatives of Westin Doha, Torch Hotel, Radisson Blu, Ezdan, Movenpick and Holiday Villa after signing partnership agreements fi rst time. How do you see it? to host delegates, athletes and off icials for the championships. I see it as a great opportunity to display my game. I’ve been doing By Sports Reporter thanked them for being partners in what will ity and services to all during the champion- my maximum to make it count. Doha be a landmark championships being held for ships. “The Organising Committee has pro- the fi rst time in the Middle East. vided two types of hotels, including 5-star What are your fi rst The Westin Hotel will be playing host to hotels , And the other four-stars, it is up to impressions of Qatar and he Organising Committee for the the offi cial delegations, while Ezdan will each delegation to choose the right hotel for QNB Stars League? 48th Artistic Gymnastics World host the participating teams. Over 600 their stay,” he said. This country is amazing. I’ll Championships in Doha has chosen gymnasts and several hundred offi cials will “The hotels have been keen to off er many get to know about it more. From goals against Al Sadd. two strong teams in Qatar six hotels to host the athletes, offi - be representing 78 countries, besides offi - free off ers and services to the delegations in what I already know, I can only It was a good game. We main- football. How do you look at cialsT and visiting mediapersons for the tour- cials of the International Gymnastics Fed- order to emphasise the provision of com- say good things about it. The tained the control of the game your Week 9 match against Al nament to be held at the Aspire Dome from eration (FIG) and tournament offi cials. fort for them, and we appreciate the great league is very competitive and and I could enjoy the opportu- Gharafa? October 25 to November 3. Radisson Blu will play host to 33 of the co-operation by various hotels to ensure the matches are exciting. nities created by teammates to A diffi cult match. We must al- The partnership agreements with the ho- participating delegations, while many other the success of the tournament and live up to score goals. ways be on top of our game in or- tels were signed at an event at Hotel Westin, would be accommodated at the Torch Hotel. the distinct status of Qatar in hosting major How is it like playing for new der to win it. one of the offi cial hotel for the champi- All offi cials refereeing at the champion- events. team Rayyan? Also, the at- What are your ambitions onships, on Wednesday. The other of the ships will stationed at Movenpick, while the “We have taken care of all security and mosphere and teammates? with Rayyan this season? Do you expect to make Al six chosen hotels include the Torch Hotel, visiting media members will be put up at safety measures to the fullest extent pos- It’s great to get to know anoth- When we’re in a club, we think Rayyan’s passionate fans Radisson Blu, Ezdan, Movenpick and Holi- Holiday Villa. Ali Abdulaziz al-Hammadi, sible, and we are keen to provide all means er culture and a diff erent way of of achievements, and with me it’s more happy this season? day Villa. Ali al-Hitmi, Director of the Or- Head of Accommodation at the Event Serv- to facilitate the delegations. We will also playing. It has been really good. no diff erent. I think of winning No doubt. I always want to ganising Committee and president Qatar ices Committee, said that the co-operation ensure that the food provided is commen- titles. make them happy. I’m preparing Gymnastics Federation, expressed pleasure with the hotels was a clear refl ection of the surate with the diff erent cultures of each You made your QSL Cup myself the best way and hope to on signing the contracts with the hotels and desire of all to provide the best of hospital- participating delegation,” he explained. debut memorable with three Al Rayyan and Al Gharafa are further improve my game.

FOOTBALL Qatar go down in AFC Under-19 Championship opener

Agencies keeper Zakaria Salah. Qatar, champions eventually saw his 54th minute eff ort Jakarta in 2014, responded well to the setback expertly turned behind for a corner by with fi rst Nasser Abdulsalam failing to custodian Salah. fi nd the target when well placed and Umaru then prodded a shot nar- li Saleh produced a virtuoso then livewire forward Abdulrasheed rowly over the UAE bar before a defen- performance as he helped the Umaru forcing Suhail Abdulla into a sive lapse allowed Qatar’s Hashim Ali United Arab Emirates begin smart save at his near post. to round Suhail Abdullah but send his their AFC U-19 Champion- Their persistence paid handsome shot wide of the target on 66 minutes. shipA campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 dividends in the 36th minute as Umaru With chances few and far between as win over Qatar in Jakarta yesterday. scrambled the ball home at the far post the half wore on, the UAE’s Mansoor Al The talented 18-year-old produced a following a Mohamed Waad corner that Harbi was subsequently dismissed for deft assist and a superb goal to hand his the Emirati defence failed to clear. a second bookable off ence in the 85th side the perfect start to their Group A Not to be outdone however, the UAE minute, although it mattered little in campaign. regained the lead with four minutes to the end as his side bravely hung on to After a bright start in sultry condi- play of an entertaining fi rst half, this seal all three points. tions, Qatar fashioned the fi rst chance time Al Wasl rising star Saleh picking Qatar are next in action on Sunday of the game, midfi elder Abdollah Ali himself up after he had been fouled on whey they play hosts Indonesia, while fi zzing a shot narrowly wide of the tar- the edge of the area to bend a stunning UAE run into Chinese Taipei at Gelora get with four minutes played. free-kick into the top corner. Bung Karno Stadium. Despite Qatar’s early dominance, it Eager to restore parity, Qatar prod- In another Group A match yesterday, was to be the UAE who went ahead on ded and probed throughout the open- Witan Sulaeman’s second half brace 16 minutes when Saleh’s clever pass ing moments of the second period proved the diff erence as hosts Indone- found Ahmad Fawzi who fi red the ball but were nearly caught on the coun- sia overcame a resilient Chinese Taipei home past the despairing dive of goal- Qatar players pose for a picture before the AFC U-19 Championship in Jakarta yesterday. ter when Saleh began the move which to record a 3-1 win.