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MONDAY 5 APRIL 2021 BartyBa hits out at number one ranking critics I never have to prove anything to anyone. I know there has bbeen a lot of talk about the ranking, but I didn’t play at all last yyeare and I didn’t improve any of my points whatsoever. Yes, I ddidn’t drop but I didn’t improve any. I didn’t play any at all.

Ashleigh Barty Sport |09

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE RESULTS: Southampton 3-2 Burnley, Newcastle United 2-2 Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa 3-1 Fulham Dorna chief Ezpeleta pleased with We are very happy that the races went well. The MotoGP family will never forget that we could start MotoGP testing and races in Qatar the season here with two races. In general, it is not RIZWAN REHMAT testing for teams of all three classes in protocols that have been working very success. The soccer fans will enjoy it,” an issue to race here. We THE PENINSULA March. well. These protocols will also help in he added in reference to the 2022 FIFA Dorna chief Carmelo Ezpeleta yes- the future. World Cup set to be held here next year. have been working At a time when the world of sports is terday was a relieved man. “We have accepted the possibility of In reply to a question, Ezpeleta said together since 2004. We reeling from delays and disruption of “We are very happy that the races doing races with less people. Now we Qatar’s young riding talent impresses started the first night race. events because of the COVID-19 situ- went well in Qatar,” Ezpeleta said. have experience of protocols we put to him. They have improved the ation around the globe, Qatar has “The MotoGP family will never forget use during 14 races last year. We go from “The Qatar Motor Academy (QMA) is stepped in to provide a much-needed that we could start the season here with hotel to circuit and come back. There is one of Qatar’s priorities. We think this lighting also. Better than relief to the MotoGP family. two races. In general, it is not an issue no complaint. Everybody knows we are year, for the first time, three Qatari riders ever. Everything is very Qatar’s iconic Losial International to race here. We have been working going to hold races and everyone knows participated in the Asian Talent Cup and nice: Carmelo Ezpeleta Circuit yesterday concluded the second together since 2004. We started the first we are here in Qatar to do that with pro- if I may say so they are doing very well round of the MotoGP World Champi- night race. They have improved the tocols,” Ezpeleta said. because this is the first time for them onship, just weeks after lighting also. Better than ever. Every- “We hope to continue with protocols. competing against Japanese or Malaysian the same venue thing is very nice,” he added. And that this will continue for all the riders who are people with more expe- hosted riders and “We had been talking with the Qatari races (this season). We are hoping this rience,” Ezpeleta said. backroom staff authorities - QMMF and the Sports Min- year will be less complicated. Thanks to “We think this is one of the things we for pre-season istry. As soon as we realised it was also the Qatar authorities, the two races were need to focus more on in the future. I am not possible to travel to the United States fantastic. We are proud of the people in sure one day Qatar can have good riders and Argentina (for MotoGP rounds), we the paddocks who make it a success. competing in the elite class. We are decided to contact QMMF President Mr “We hope to do all (2021 calendar) talking with them. Whatever is necessary Abdulrahman Al Mannai and he pro- races in principle. If the situation is not we tell them and we see what they are posed we conduct everything here - the good, we may do it without fans. We will doing. testing and the two races,” he said. see about races at the end of the year - “You have something here, which “We saw the situation around Japan, Australia, Malaysia and Thailand is incredible - the Aspire Academy. the world and we decided to con- - we are optimistic about those races - Having the Aspire Academy for kids is tinue with SOPs. We knew it but we will know exactly at the end of an incredible benefit because the was important to continue July. We will know more at the time of people who started here also have the (racing). We created the summer break,” Ezpeleta said. chance to complete their education. The Dorna chief said he feels amazed This is very important,” the Dorna chief looking at the infrastructure devel- said. “Motor sport is a challenge and opment in Qatar. the important thing is to accommodate “I am not surprised, I have been young people to try to improve while coming here since 2004. I remember when learning. The facilities in Qatar are just we were here for the first time and there amazing. Most federations have cham- was Ritz Carlton only (smiles). When we pionships for 10-year-olds and the good see from the window now, all of Qatar has riders, we bring them to Europe. We try changed. What we see now is incredible,” to make them understand more. We Ezpeleta said. need to be patient. We need to wait for Dorna chief Carmelo Ezpeleta speaks during a press conference in Doha. “I think Qatar 2022 will be incredible the results,” he added. French delight as Quartararo storms to ‘dream’ Qatar win under lights RIZWAN REHMAT WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE PENINSULA

Frenchman Fabio Quartararo last night Frenchman Fabio Quartararo got his start in couldn’t have chosen a better time or motorcycle racing at the age of four, moving to circuit to announce himself as a threat Spain to develop his career and proclaimed national to his rivals in the new season. champion in the 70, 80 and 125 categories. The 21-year-old Monster Energy Yamaha rider won the Tissot Grand Prix In 2013 he won the FIM CEV Repsol Moto3 of Qatar ahead of compatriot Johann championship and went on to win the same title Zarco and Spanish pole winner Jorge again in 2014. The previous rule against participating Martin to nail the second round of the in the Moto3 World Championship until the age 2021 MotoGP World Championship. of 16 had been repealed for the winner of the MOTOGP TISSOT GRAND PRIX OF then-national crown, so for 2015 - aged just 15 Once a popular name on the junior French rider Fabio circuit where he won six Spanish cham- DOHA: TOP 10 - Quartararo joined team-mate Jorge Navarro in Quartararo of Monster 1. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha the Estrella Galicia 0,0 Honda team. pionship titles including successive CEV Energy Yamaha Moto3 crowns in 2013 and 2014, the MotoGP) MotoGP celebrates  young Frenchman completed the 22-lap 2. Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) + 1.457 Impressing from the start, Quartararo was on on the podium after race in a time of 42:23.997 after 3. Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) + 1.500 the podium in just his second race. He repeated winning the Tissot that in Assen after claiming pole at both Jerez and grabbing lead with five laps to go. 4. Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) + 2.088 Grand Prix of Le Mans, but unfortunately a late season ankle Quartararo pushed Zarco (Pramac 5. Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha Doha, injury halted his progress. Racing) and his stablemate Martin to yesterday. MotoGP) + 2.110 second and third spots respectively in 6. (Ducati Lenovo Team) For 2016 he moved to the Leopard Racing a single lap to win the top place on the + 2.642 team with KTM machinery, and then moved up Qatar podium after an exhilarating 7. Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) + 4.868 to Moto2 in 2017 with Paginas Amarillas HP40. battle at the iconic Losail International 8. (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) Circuit. + 4.979  After some impressive showings of pace, Zarco was +1.457 slower than Quar- 9. Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) + 5.365 Quartararo moved to for his sophomore tararo while Martin - who impressed 10. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team season in the intermediate class and took his with his pole winning performance on Gresini) + 5.382 first win - and pole - at the Circuit de Barcelona- Saturday night - finished +1.500 seconds Catalunya. His move to the premier class surprised behind the rising French star. Zarco many, but what followed in 2019 was nothing passed Martin on the final lap to seal to win in Qatar. I worked a lot in the off- Team, +5.365 seconds) and Spain’s Aleix made another podium in the MotoGP short of remarkable: seven podiums, fifth in the second spot. season to achieve my dream. The media Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team class to lead the 2021 points race. the Championship and Rookie of the Year with Yesterday’s race was the first time told me always I need to work more to Gresini, +5.382) completed the top 10. “I was pretty happy when I took the 192 points. that two French riders reached the take Valentino’s place. Thanks for eve- In an intense battle under lights, lead. He has been faster than what podium in the elite class since 1954 ryone who believed in me. I want to Quartararo zipped past Rins at the start Pecco (Bagnaia) did last week. He had His stock continued to rise in 2020, opening when Pierre Monneret (winner) and thank my family Yamaha, my friends. of lap 15 and quickly went past Bagnaia better pace. I was able to stay behind up the season with back-to-back victories while Jacques Collot (third) in Reims. Exhib- I will enjoy tonight’s race with a nice at Turn 15. The French rider, on lap 18, him. Rins was with me a long time. securing a third in Barcelona. iting good pace last night also, second- McDonald’s (meal),” he added. went past Zarco and then rode like the When he was overtaking me, I was placed Zarco has now secured the top Spain’s Alex Rins (Suzuki Ecstar, wind and overtook Martin at Turn 15 to really using my engine in the straight position on the points table after the two +2.088 seconds) and last week’s winner grab the lead. There was not stopping to stay second,” Zarco said. last night. “Slowly I controlled the rounds of the 2021 season. Maverick Vinales (Monster Energy Quartararo then as he remained firm “When Fabio came and he took power. I think I really had a mature race. “It is easy to say I have not won a Yamaha MotoGP, +2.110 seconds), also on his bike and retained lead to win by overtook, I tried to catch Fabio before The management of the race (from my lot of races but this was such a special of Spain, completed the top five. 1.457 seconds over Zarco. and even on the last lap. I am second. I side) was really good. When Fabio win,” Quartararo said yesterday. Pole winner from the opening round MotoGP icon ended am still so happy. I am leading the overtook me, I knew I had to push. But “I fought from 8th or 7th. I saw the at the same venue last week, Francesco in 16th spot for new employers Petronas championship so it is good,” he added. in the last lap, Zarco overtook me. It’s pace of the track was completely dif- Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team, +2.642 Yamaha SRT after he started the race Third-placed Martin said it was always okay because he is chasing the cham- ferent from the warm-up. I decided to seconds), defending champion Joan Mir from career-worst 21st in qualifying. going to be a difficult race for him after pionship title. I am happy for my keep the tyre for the end. When I saw of Spain (Suzuki Ecstar, +4.868 seconds), Rossi, aiming to ride until the end of winning the pole position on Saturday. podium,” he said with a smile. Maverick (Vinales) coming behind me, South Africa’s Brad Binder (Red Bull 2022, clocked a poor +14.246 seconds “It was a difficult race. I am a rookie. The riders will now move to Por- and I said now is the moment to push. KTM Factory Racing, +4.979 seconds), behind Quartararo. I was in front for 3 laps but anyway I tugal for the third round to be held on It is an amazing win. I always dreamed Australia’s Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Zarco seemed please to have managed to compete well,” Martin said April 18. MONDAY 5 APRIL 2021 SPORT 11

TISSOT GRAND PRIX OF DOHA: MOTO2 (TOP 10) Lowes resists Gardner pressure 1. Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) 2. Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 0.190 3. Raul Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 3.371 for back to back wins in Qatar 4. (SKY Racing Team VR46) + 6.789 MOTOGP - DOHA 5. Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) + 16.640 Elf Marc VDS Racing Team’s Sam Lowes 6. Augusto Fernandez (Elf Marc VDS notched up win number two of 2021 to Racing Team) + 16.887 become the first British rider to win the 7. Celestino Vietti (SKY Racing Team VR46) opening two races of an intermediate + 17.254 class campaign since Mike Hailwood 8. (Flexbox HP40) + 17.283 did so in 1966, as the number 22 and 9. (Petronas Sprinta Racing) Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) + 17.515 treated us to a terrific scrap for victory 10. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Federal Oil at the Tissot Grand Prix of Doha. Gresini Moto2) + 18.167 Rookie sensation Raul Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) picked up his maiden Moto2 podium with a brilliant it two from two in 2021, Gardner takes P3 at Losail. P2 again in Doha in a thrilling fight Launching very well from the between the two. middle of the front row was Gardner Both riders set their best laps on the who immediately got the better of last lap, Gardner’s the fastest of the race, Lowes, but in the second phase of the a sign of just how brilliant the two were start the Australian got swamped by riding. Lowes, Marco Bezzecchi (SKY Racing Fernandez lost touch in the end but Team VR46) and team-mate Raul it was nevertheless a phenomenal ride Fernandez. from the rookie to claim his maiden The latter was wide at Turn 1 as Bez- Moto2 podium, awesome job from the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team’s Sam Lowes leads the race. zecchi grabbed the holeshot from Spaniard. Bezzecchi eventually had a Lowes, with Gardner slotting into P3 lonely ride home to P4, a podium ahead of his rookie team-mate. This was close to hitting team-mate Raul the edge in the opening half of the lap, two tenths – a 1:58.991 for Gardner. evaded one of the pre-season favourites, leading quartet immediately pulled Fernandez and Bezzecchi at Turn 10, the Qatar GP runner-up looked quicker The Ashes on two wheels. Lowes vs but P4 for the second race in a row isn’t clear of the chasing pack, fronted by but the pass was made. in the second half. Still no change Gardner, England vs Australia. Nobody a terrible start to the season. Another Aron Canet (Solunion Aspar Team). And with 10 laps gone, 10 to go, the though with three laps to go, a trio of was giving an inch as the duo looked rookie who is enjoying life as a Moto2 Bezzecchi, Lowes, Raul Fernandez top four were nearly six seconds clear 1:59.1s for Gardner still wasn’t enough on rails, with nothing to choose between rider was Ogura and the Japanese rider and Gardner were in a league of their of fifth place Fabio Di Giannantonio to get the better of Lowes but this was them. Heading into the latter half of the recovered from his off-track excursion own. All of them set mid-1:59s with (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2). going down to the wire. Raul Fernandez last lap, Gardner was right up behind to claim P5 – a fine effort. Canet setting a 2:00.040, the latter then On Lap 13, Lowes landed the fastest was clinging on, but the Spaniard was Lowes and coming out of Turn 14, they A maximum 50 points for Lowes at lost out to Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing lap of the race. Six to go, it looked like 0.7s away from his team-mate. were closer than ever. Losail, the perfect start to 2021 for the Team) as the American sat 1.7 seconds it was Lowes vs Red Bull KTM Ajo for Lowes responded to Gardner’s It came down to the last corner and Briton but Gardner is just 10 points adrift heading onto Lap 4. On said lap, victory under the lights. pressure. A 1:59.026 was the fastest the run to the line. Lowes broke late into behind him in the standings after two the lead changed. Lowes tucked in The fastest lap of the race, a 1:59.131, lap of the race and the gap was up to Turn 16, Gardner tried to get on the gas P2s. The duo were the outstanding behind Bezzecchi on the straight and was then set by Gardner as the race half a second, more than it had been early but was out the seat, ruining his riders in Rounds 1 and 2 as the paddock made a Turn 1 move stick, and he was entered the final five laps. 0.7s split the for some time now. Again though, drive onto the straight. Lowes got the look forward to a weekend off, before soon half a second clear. Gardner, trip, 0.2s between Lowes and Gardner. Gardner was giving it his all and Sec- power down and took the chequered heading to Portimao – scene of Gard- seeing Lowes getting into his groove, The Qatar race winner looked to have tor’s 3 and 4 saw the gap return to flag 0.190s ahead of Gardner to make ner’s first Grand Prix victory in 2020.

Acosta in action. Pic: MotoGP Spanish rider Pedro TISSOT GRAND PRIX OF Acosta of Red Bull KTM DOHA: MOTO3 (TOP 5) Ajo celebrates on the 1. Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM podium after winning Ajo) the Moto3 race of Tissot 2. Darryn Binder (Petronas Grand Prix of Doha at Losail International Sprinta Racing) + 0.039 Circuit yesterday. 3. Niccolo Antonelli (Reale Avintia Moto3) + 0.482 4. (Rivacold Snipers Team) + 0.514 5. Kaito Toba (CIP Green Power) + 0.651

shoved it up the inside of Antonelli at Turn 6 but both ran wide, allowing Rodrigo through. Meanwhile, Acosta was Teen Acosta wins setting the fastest lap of the race with Binder the only one able to stick with the wonder kid on the last lap, with Masia then coming into contact with epic Moto3 battle Rodrigo at Turn 10. A late lunge didn’t work and the Qatar race winner, along with Rodrigo, was MOTOGP - DOHA completing the podium. For the Power) then led on Lap 2 but it from Toba and Masia, with Alcoba and McPhee were down wide to allow Antonelli back second time in seven days, it was was slipstream city down the rookie Adrian Fernandez (Ster- at Turn 1, Alcoba tagged the back through. It was an incredible battle from lights out at Losail International 1km down the home straight ilgarda Max Racing Team) of Binder and left McPhee with However, it was now all lights out to chequered flag in Circuit for the Moto3 riders and every lap. getting properly stuck in. nowhere to go, the latter got a about Acosta vs Binder. An abso- the Moto3 class at the Tissot making the best start was Binder was back at the front Further back, the pitlane face full of Honda and both were lutely pitch-perfect last lap from Grand Prix of Doha. Rightly Gabriel Rodrigo (Indonesian briefly before Filip Salac starters of Acosta, Romano out of the race. the Spaniard all came down to stealing the headlines in Moto3 Racing Gresini Moto3) from P3 (Rivacold Snipers Team) and Fenati (Sterilgarda Max Racing Later, at Turn 6, Tatay and the run to the line. Binder was was wonder kid rookie Pedro on the grid, with Tatsuki Suzuki Suzuki interchanged P1 on Lap Team), Sergio Garcia (GASGAS Adrian Fernandez were down in touch and had a chance of Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo). (SIC58 Squadra Corse) and 4, with the pitlane starters still Gaviota Aspar) and Stefano Nepa too. snatching the 25 points at the The 16-year-old became the Binder making electric getaways six seconds adrift of 21st place (BOE Owlride) were starting to In the aftermath, Masia led death, but Acosta held on by just first Moto3 rider to start from from the second row to claw Xavier Artigas (Leopard Racing) penetrate the top 20, just over from Migno and Binder, as 0.039s to claim his first Moto3 pitlane and win. A truly aston- themselves up to P2 and P3. – the latter taking his two long- six seconds off the fight for the Acosta found himself inside the victory, pitlane to P1. ishing ride from the young Binder was wasting no time lap penalties. race win. There were 10 laps to top five. Binder picked up his second Spaniard left everyone and was into the lead at Turn 4, The Moto3 script was the in Doha, 1.5 seconds split 18 And heading onto the last consecutive podium at Losail as speechless as the number 37 polesitter Jaume Masia (Red Bull same as always as the riders riders. lap, Acosta clawed his way to the Antonelli returned to the podium beat Darryn Binder (Petronas KTM Ajo) was down to P4 but entered Lap 7: constant fairing With five laps to go, the top front. The rookie sensation took for the first time since winning Sprinta Racing) by 0.039s, with then found his way past Suzuki bashing and awe-inspiring 21 were covered by 1.6 seconds. the initiative and started pulling the 2019 Spanish Grand Prix. Niccolo Antonelli (Avintia for P3 on the opening lap. racing. Leading was Andrea Drama then unfolded at clear of second place Binder as Migno and Toba completed Esponsorama Moto3) Kaito Toba (CIP Green Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) Turn 1 between two race leaders. Masia at fourth. The latter a top five covered by just 0.651s. 9th Qatar National Arabian Horse Show for Individual Owners

The representative of Amir Al Reeh receiving the gold medal during the presentation ceremony after the Al Reeh Stud - owned stallion won Class SSC Senioe Stallions Championship on the final day of the 9th Qatar National Arabian Horse Show for Individual Owners, organised by the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club and held at Longines Arena At Al Shaqab yesterday. RIGHT: Representatives of Da Magic Moment, winner of Class SCS Senior Mares Championship, receiving their gold medal.

YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP (CLASS YFC) YEARLING FILLIES CHAMPIONSHIP (CLASS JFC) SENIOR MARES CHAMPIONSHIP (CLASS SMC) Gold: Elham Al Jamal (Al Jamal Stud) Gold: Alaliya Al Sraiya (Al Sraiya Stud) Gold: Da Magic Moment (Nasser Mohammed Al Hajri) Silver: Maaly (Ebrahim bin Yusuf Alromaihi) Silver: Celine Ah Stud (Al Hazm Stud) Silver: Najla Umm Aludham (Nasser Mohammed Al Hajri) Bronze: Shadia Al Nasser (Aljazeel Stud - Yousuf Alkuwari) Bronze: IS Sheeran (Ebrahim bin Yusuf Alromaihi) Bronze: D Fala (Al Salem Stud)

YEARLING COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP (CLASS YCC) JUNIOR COLTS CHAMPIONSHIP (CLASS JCC) SENIOR STALLIONS CHAMPIONSHIP (CLASS SSC) Gold: Kayid Al Jazeel (Aljazeel Stud - Yousuf Alkuwari) Gold: Halil Al Khor (Al Khor Stud) Gold: Amir Al Reeh (Al Reeh Stud) Silver: Ezz Imperial (Ezz Elkhail Stud) Silver: Fatah Al Shahania (Al Mashrab Stud) Silver: Ghazi Al Nasser (Al Dana Stud) Baghdad Al Hazza (Al Hazza Stud) Bronze: Mashhoor M (Mana'A Abdulhadi Ali Al Shahwani) Bronze: Badi Athbah (Aljazeel Stud - Yousuf Alkuwari) 10 SPORT MONDAY 5 APRIL 2021

Juventus trio QSL: Al Sadd back to winning ways; return to training after Al Duhail secure second position COVID-19 ROUND 20 REVIEW Cup, continued their good per- formances as they beat Qatar breaches THE PENINSULA — DOHA SC 2-1. The Peregrines, however, The 2020-21 season QNB Stars stood eighth in the standings REUTERS — MILAN League’s Week 20 action, where with 26 points, while The Kings as many as 18 goals were slipped from fourth to fifth Juventus players Weston scored, witnessed exciting position with 31 points. McKennie, Paulo Dybala and action. All six matches were In the other game, Al Arthur Melo returned to played on Saturday. Wakrah and Al Khor were training as their punishment New champions Al Sadd got locked in a goalless draw to for breaching COVID-19 rules back to winning ways with a remain in ninth and 11th last week came to an end 2-0 victory over Al Gharafa to position with 23 and 15 points yesterday. be on 54 points. It was The respectively. The trio trained with the Wolves’ 17th victory, while The The 2020-21 season QNB rest of Andrea Pirlo’s squad as Cheetahs remained on 30 Stars League’s Week 21 matches they prepared for a Serie A points after crashing to their will be played on Tuesday, 6th match with Napoli on ninth defeat. In the process, April, and Wednesday, 7th April. Wednesday. they slipped one position to The fixtures are Qatar SC vs The three players were sixth in the table. Al Ahli (Al Sadd Stadium, 16:00), fined and left out of Pirlo’s Al Duhail staged a Al Sadd vs Al Rayyan (Al Sadd squad for Saturday’s 2-2 Turin comeback 3-2 win over Al Arabi Stadium, 20:30), Al Khor vs Al derby draw with Torino after to ensure they finish as this sea- Duhail (Al Ahli Stadium, 20:30) breaking national protocols on son’s runners-up. on Tuesday, Umm Salal vs Al Wednesday. The Red Knights now have Sailiya (Al Ahli Stadium, 18:15) Juve’s United States mid- 43 points, whereas Al Arabi and Al Arabi vs Al Kharaitiyat fielder McKennie hosted a stood in the seventh spot with (Al Ahli Stadium, 20:30). dinner party in the hills above 26 points. The Al Sadd vs Al Rayyan Al Sadd Turin, with Dybala and Arthur Al Rayyan stood third with ‘Qatar Clasico’ will highlight the players among 10 guests in attendance. 34 points despite losing 2-3 to Week 21 action. celebrate Italian rules restrict the Umm Salal, who remained 10th Al Gharafa had played their a goal number of people allowed in even though they moved on to Week 21 match against Al against Al a home and enforce a curfew 18 points. Wakrah and lost by a 0-2 Gharafa on from 10pm to 5am. Al Ahli gained much ground margin on 16th March. Saturday. The fitness of the three as they climbed from sixth to The Al Gharafa vs Al RIGHT: Al players will now be assessed fourth place with 32 points fol- Wakrah match was originally Duhail's ahead of Napoli’s visit. lowing their 2-1 last-gasp scheduled for 6th April along Mohammed Juve are in fourth place in victory over Al Kharaitiyat, who with other Week 21 games, but Muntari the table, 12 points adrift of remained at the bottom of the was rescheduled in view of Al in action leaders Inter Milan and level table with nine points and are Gharafa’s play-off with against an on 56 points with Gennaro very much facing direct rele- Uzbekistan’s FC AGMK in Doha Al Arabi Gattuso’s Napoli side who are gation to the Second Division. on 7th April, 2021, for a berth in player. one spot below them. Al Sailiya, who recently won the 2021 AFC Champions the 2020-21 season Ooredoo League group stage. West Brom Solskjaer doesn’t see report online Manchester United racial abuse move for departing of Robinson REUTERS — LONDON City striker Aguero West Bromwich Albion said they have contacted West Midlands Police to report the REUTERS — MANCHESTER Arsenal and online racist abuse directed at striker Callum Robinson after Liverpool players I wouldn’t expect any player in action in front of Manchester United manager he scored twice in Saturday’s the empty stands Ole Gunnar Solskjaer who has played for a club 5-2 win over Chelsea in the at the Wembley (pictured) said he does not for 10 years to want to go to Premier League. Stadium in London, expect to see striker Sergio their local rivals. I know Ireland international Rob- during the FA Aguero in his team’s colours inson and Matheus Pereira next season because of the we’re professionals, but scored a brace each at Stamford Community Shield when you play for Man tournament in this Argentine’s decade-long asso- Bridge as second-bottom West file photo. ciation with cross-town rivals United you don’t go to Man Brom moved within seven Manchester City. City. We’ve had examples of points of the safety zone. Aguero, who has 257 goals that and I didn’t really agree Robinson is the latest in 384 appearances and has Premier League player to be won four Premier League titles, with it. racially abused on social Wembley could be full for one FA Cup and five League Ole Gunnar Solskjaer media after Manchester Cups at City, is set to leave Manchester United manager United’s Axel Tuanzebe, when his contract expires at the Marcus Rashford and Anthony Euro 2020 final: English FA end of the season. Martial and Arsenal’s Willian The last high-profile player league title in the 2011-12 and Eddie Nketiah were all AP — LONDON Tottenham and Manchester Championship final iss to join City from season. SolskjaeSolskjaer said he does targeted in recent months. City on April 25 (8,000 fans) scheduled to take place onn UUnitednited was not expect AgueroAgu to follow “The despicable Instagram English football leaders hope and the FA Cup final on May July 11. There will be onee AAgAguero’suero’s compa-compa- inin Tevez’s footfootsteps.s posts were sent in reply to the Wembley Stadium will be at 15 (21,000 fans). indoor pilot event in sports - triottriot CarlosCarlos Tevez.Tevez. “I wouldn’twouldn’ expect any Republic of Ireland interna- full capacity for the final of the It is hoped this will even- snooker’s world champi-- HeHe spentspent two playerplayer who hash played for a tional after he scored twice in European Championship in tually allow for far bigger onship from April 17-May 3 aatt seasonsseasons oonn lloanoan at UUnitednited clubclub for 10 yearsy to want to a memorable team per- July. crowds to be welcomed back, the Crucible Theatre in Shef-- beforebef o r e gogo to theirthei local rivals,” formance at Stamford Bridge,” Ahead of a wider relax- particularly for the delayed field, which will welcome upp jjoiningo i n i ng SolskjaerSolskjaer told reporters. West Brom said in a statement. ation of coronavirus restric- Euro 2020, with Wembley to 1,000 people a day. rivalsr iva l s “I kknown we’re pro- “Albion will continue to tions in England that will not staging seven games including “Our sports stars and greatt CityCity in fessionals,fession but when confront all forms of discrim- take effect until May, a series the semifinals and final in July. performers need us to findd 20092009 youyou playp for Man ination and will assist the of pilot events are taking place “We are delighted to be ways to get bums back onn anda n d United yyou don’t go to authorities with their inquiries, over the coming weeks at hosting three test events at seats safely,” said culture sec-- wonwon Man City.Ci We’ve had seeking the toughest available sports and entertainment Wembley and are confident retary Oliver Dowden. thethe examplesexample of that and I legal punishment.” venues to assess procedures we can offer a safe envi- “This science-led pilott didn’tdidn’t reallyrea agree with Chelsea condemned the for testing on spectators and ronment,” said Mark Bull- program will be the spring-- it. incident, saying they were visitors. ingham, chief executive of the board in getting the buzz backk “When“When I played for “disgusted with posts” and They include the fol- Football Association. of live performance. Man UnUnited,i if a rival found “all forms of discrimi- lowing games at Wembley: “This is an important first “We’ve supported thee cclublub tritriede to sign me, natory behaviour totally the FA Cup semi-final match step towards getting fans sports and arts with unprec-- andand I hhad gone - well, unacceptable”. between Leicester and back, with the end goal of full edented sums, but it’s noww where’swhere the loyalty? The spurt in online abuse Southampton on April 18 stadia - hopefully by the end time to make that ‘Greatt LoyaltyLoya is one of the of players has prompted (4,000 fans), the English of the men’s Euros.” British Summer’ of live eventss valuesvalu I really, English soccer bodies to put League Cup final between The European a reality.” reallyreal put highly,” pressure on social media com- he aadded. panies to tackle the problem. Mourinho frustrated as Spurs let lead slip again in draw at Newcastle REUTERS — NEWCASTLE points this season due to goals our opponent and our opponent “You cannot score three, conceded in the final 10 didn’t give up. I had the same four, five goals every match. Tottenham Hotspur manager minutes. feeling and I’m on the bench. You come away from home and Jose Mourinho said they were “The Premier League is hard It’s difficult to have the feeling score two goals... we cannot ask the architects of their own and is high-level football. And of absolute control because I for lots of goals every match, downfall after failing to hold on when in some actions you don’t know that what happened can many times it’s not possible,” to the lead in a 2-2 Premier show that you belong to that happen.” Mourinho added. League draw at Newcastle high level of football, it’s dif- When Mourinho was “It’s not just about the United yesterday. ficult,” Mourinho told the BBC. reminded that his teams were defensive mistakes that lead to Spurs led 2-1 at the break “We made... defensive mis- famous for holding on to leads goals, we have situations where thanks to a quick-fire double takes that lead to instability. In in the past, he said: “Same we have the ball and I know from Harry Kane but an 85th- the first half we were always in coach, different players.” The already the ball is going to end minute equaliser from Joe control, even in the second half Portuguese manager was also with (goalkeeper) Hugo Lloris. Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Willock prevented Mourinho’s when we had the ball we didn’t concerned with how Spurs “That’s the way we some- Mourinho reacts during the match side from provisionally moving have any problems. We could were unable to handle Newcas- times create instability to our- against Newcastle United . up to fourth in the table. have scored a couple more. tle’s constant pressure after selves. We gave the chance to Spurs have now dropped 11 “Instability brings hope to scoring twice. the opponents to push up.” MONDAY 5 APRIL 2021 SPORT 09

French Open postponement Miami winner Barty hits out at a possibility, says Sports number one ranking critics Minister REUTERS – MIAMI retired midway through the final “I can’t control what anyone due to an ankle injury. else thinks or what anyone else REUTERS – PARIS Ash Barty dismissed suggestions “I know there has been a lot of says,” said Barty, who was playing that she had unfairly held on to talk about the ranking, but I didn’t in her first tournament abroad French Sports Minister the top ranking while opting not play at all last year and I didn’t since February 2020. Roxana Maracineanu said it to compete on the WTA Tour for improve any of my points what- “Everyone needs to under- was possible the French Open most of 2020 due to the COVID-19 soever. Yes, I didn’t drop but I stand that it’s a pandemic. It’s could be postoned for the pandemic. didn’t improve any. I didn’t play probably a once-in-a-lifetime second year amid the With the pandemic preventing any at all. thing for a lot of us to go through, COVID-19 crisis. many from competing on the tour “There were girls who had the so it’s a bit of a difficult situation.” France entered a third since March 2020, the WTA chance to improve theirs, so I felt On Saturday the 24-year-old Aus- nationwide lockdown on Sat- tweaked the ranking system last like I thoroughly deserve my spot tralian was leading 6-3 3-0 when urday to contain the corona- year to ensure that players were at the top of the rankings. The year Andreescu took a medical timeout virus spread, although profes- not penalised for their we had in 2019 was incredible,” to have her foot and ankle taped. sional sports have largely no-shows. added Barty, who opted not to It failed to make a difference been spared. An exception is The format allowed the Aus- travel out of Australia for 12 and after Barty extended her cycling’s Paris-Roubaix tralian to stay on top of the world months from March 2020. second-set lead to 4-0, a dejected one-day race, which has been even though rivals such as Naomi Barty clinched the Miami Open Andreescu shook her head and postponed from its original Osaka won Grand Slam titles in 2019 before capturing the covered her face with her hands April 11 slot. during Barty’s absence. French Open and WTA Finals. She before tearfully retiring from the The French Open, which “I never have to prove any- started off 2020 by triumphing at match. Ashleigh Barty of Australia last year was postponed by thing to anyone,” Barty told the Adelaide International before Barty said she plans to celebrates with the Miami Open four months and took place reporters on Saturday after she the COVID-19 pandemic caused compete in Charleston next week winner's trophy after the women’s in front of limited crowds, is retained her Miami Open title the Tour to shut down for five before heading to the Stuttgart singles final against Bianca due to start this year on May when Canada’s Bianca Andreescu months. Open in Germany. Andreescu of Canada. 23. “We are in discussion with them (the French Tennis Federation, which organises the event) to see if we should change the date to coincide Andreescu refuses to let injuries define her career with a possible resumption Bianca Andreescu REUTERS – MIAMI of all sports and major of Canada reacts tournaments in Adelaide, Doha and “Even if it’s something small, events,” Maracineanu told before retiring Dubai with a leg issue. sometimes I’ll be extra cautious, but France Info radio late on Canada’s Bianca Andreescu is On Saturday, Andreescu I’d rather be that than push through due to an injury Saturday. frustrated with continued tumbled on the court at 2-0 in the it and get it worse, because I have in her Miami “Today, although high- setbacks since returning to court second set in the Miami Open final been through both, and today I’m Open women’s level sport has been pre- at the Australian Open after 15 against world number one Ash glad that I stopped. It’s hard for me singles final match served, we try to limit the months due to a knee problem, Barty to injure her foot, forcing her to say that, but I’m glad that I against Ashleigh risks of clusters, of spreading but the 20-year-old is not willing to make a tearful exit two games stopped.” Andreescu battled Barty of Australia, the virus within professional to let injuries define her fledgling later. through four three-setters in a row on Saturday. sports.” career. “It seems that I’m kind of the to reach the final at the WTA 1000 President Emmanuel A month after winning her only one that keeps getting asked event in Miami and the Canadian Macron said on Wednesday maiden Grand Slam at the 2019 U.S. questions about injuries, which is was confident of a good show for that he was expecting to Open, Andreescu suffered a torn super annoying,” the former world the rest of the season. re-open the country in meniscus in her left knee and number four told reporters. “My body seemed to be good mid-May. returned to action only in Mel- “I don’t want, like, for me to up until today,” said Andreescu, The director-general of bourne in February. have a reputation of that, because who will climb up three spots to the French Tennis Feder- She exited the year’s first Grand it’s not only me that’s getting number six in the rankings today. ation, Gilles Moreton, said Slam in the second round and fol- injured. But, yeah, I mean, it’s hap- “No one wants to end a tournament earlier this week that he lowed it up with a semi-final run pened quite a bit, but I don’t want retiring, especially in the finals. But could not imagine the Grand at a WTA event at Melbourne Park to define myself through those. It things happen, and I want to look Slam tournament being before withdrawing from sucks. ahead in my career. I’m only 20.” cancelled.

Pakistan's Tokyo Games Fakhar Gardner’s six seals world record Zaman hits organisers a boundary win for Australian women during the to hold talks second ODI REUTERS – MOUNT MAUNGANUI Age. Opener Alyssa Healy top against South scored for Australia with 65 runs Africa in Australia’s women cricketers from 68 balls before she was with FINA Johannesburg, surpassed their male counterparts caught and bowled by Kerr, while yesterday. yesterday to set a new world Ellyse Perry also finished this week Pic: Twitter / record for the most consecutive unbeaten on 56 runs. @TheRealPCB wins in one day internationals Megan Schutt was the pick of REUTERS – TOKYO with a six-wicket victory over Australia’s bowlers as she claimed New Zealand in Mount Maun- 4 for 32 in nine overs while Nicola Tokyo 2020 organisers plan to ganui. Carey backed her up, taking three hold discussions with the Inter- The win, Australia’s 22nd in a wickets for 34 runs. national Swimming Federation row, means Meg Lanning’s team The New Zealanders opened (FINA) this week, a senior eclipsed the mark set by Ricky the batting but made a slow start, official said, after the federation Ponting’s men’s side in 2003, with Hayley Jensen falling before said it was reviewing whether having equalled the long-standing the home side managed to score to hold the Olympics diving record back in October. any runs. qualification event scheduled Set a target of 213 to win, the With Lauren Down anchoring, for this month. Australians rattled off the required they steadied themselves and, “We are aware that they total in just under 39 overs to after a 90-run partnership for the intend to cancel. On the other secure a comfortable victory. third wicket with Kerr, the opener hand, we are still trying to Ashleigh Gardner brought up eventually fell for 90 with New confirm the details and we the winning runs when she Zealand on 168 for 5. need to have further discus- smashed a six off Amelia Kerr on New Zealand were all bowled sions with them,” Yasuo Mori, her way to a personal tally of 53 out for 212 when Rosemary Mair deputy executive director for Fakhar's blistering century not not out, as her team set the new was dismissed with seven balls the Tokyo 2020 Games Oper- global benchmark. remaining, leaving the Australians ations Bureau, said “What a brilliant with a target they surpassed with yesterday. enough as Proteas win 2nd ODI achievement,” Ponting told The relative ease. “We want to hold talks with them about such details,” he REUTERS – JOHANNESBURG double-ton in the 50-over SCOREBOARD told an online briefing after a format was gone. The tourists SOUTH AFRICA weekend test event for wheel- Opener Fakhar Zaman’s scin- had elected to field first and Q de Kock b Rauf ...... 80 chair rugby. tillating 193 was not enough South Africa’s impressive total Aiden Markram c Ali b Ashraf ...... 39 A cancellation would be a for Pakistan who lost the was boosted by four fine half- T Bavuma c Azam b Rauf ...... 92 setback for Tokyo organisers second one-day international centuries, each different in R van der Dussen c Ashraf b Hasnain ...... 60 after they just restarted test to South Africa by 17 runs at their make-up. D Miller not out ...... 50 H Klaasen c Rauf b Afridi ...... 11 events for the first time in over The Wanderers yesterday as Newly-appointed captain A Phehlukwayo c Ashraf b Rauf ...... 3 a year and need to test the hosts levelled the three- Temba Bavuma scored 92 K Rabada not out ...... 1 COVID-19 countermeasures for game series. from 102 balls and warmed to Extras (lb 1, nb 1, w 3) ...... 5 participants at venues. Fakhar was left to do it all his task as the innings wore TOTAL (50 Ov, for 6 wkts) ...... 341 Media reports said FINA on his own as Pakistan on, while opener Quinton de Did not bat: Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi had decided to cancel the April reached 324 for nine in reply Kock looked edgy and had Fall of wickets: 1-55, 2-169, 3-270, 4-306, 5-317, 18-23 final qualification round, to South Africa’s 341 for six, luck in his 80 from 86 balls. 6-322 BOWLING: which is also an official test his power-hitting including 18 Rassie van der Dussen, Afridi 10-1-75-1, Hasnain 10-0-74-1, Ashraf 9-0-62-11, Rauf 10-0-54-3, Khan 9-0-64-0, event for the Games, which fours and 10 sixes for the who got a century in the first Aziz 2-0-11-0 were postponed last year due record score in ODIs in Johan- match in Pretoria on Friday, to the COVID-19 pandemic. nesburg, beating the 175 by kept up his good form with a PAKISTAN The BBC, citing a letter Herschelle Gibbs against Aus- powerful 60 from 37 balls that Imam-ul-Haq c Markram b Ngidi ...... 5 Gearing up for IPL from FINA to national federa- tralia in 2006. included four sixes, before F Zaman run out (Markram) ...... 193 B Azam c Bavuma b Nortje ...... 31 tions, said the event was can- It was also the best score David Miller finished the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai celled because the organisers’ by a visiting player to South innings with 50 not out from M Rizwan c Klaasen b Nortje ...... 0 D Aziz c De Kock b Nortje ...... 9 Indians players train before the planned COVID-19 precautions Africa, with the next highest 27 balls. kick off of the IPL 2021 season. “will not properly ensure” the in Sunday’s Pakistan innings Seamer Haris Rauf was S Khan lbw b Shamsi ...... 13 A Ali c Markram b Phehlukwayo ...... 19 Tis year's edition of the IPL will safety of athletes. being 31 from captain Babar comfortably the pick of the F Ashraf c De Kock b Phehlukwayo ...... 11 begin on April 9 in Chennai, with FINA said it would make an Azam. Pakistan bowlers with 3-54 S Afridi c & b Rabada ...... 5 defending champions Mumbai announcement in the coming Fakhar’s magnificent from his 10 overs. H Rauf not out ...... 1 Indians taking on Royal Challengers week. innings of 155 balls ended in The third and final ODI is M Hasnain not out ...... 12 Bangalore. The final will be played Adding to organisers’ head- bizarre fashion when he can- scheduled for Pretoria on Extras (b 1, lb 8, nb 1, w 15) ...... 25 on May 30 in Ahmedabad. The aches, Osaka, part of Japan’s tered home for a second run Wednesday but South Africa TOTAL (50 Ov, for 9 wkts) ...... 324 tournament will be held in six cities second-biggest metropolis, off the first ball of the final will be without leading Fall of wickets: 1-7, 2-70, 3-71, 4-85, 5-120, 6-186, - Chennai, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, wants to cancel its leg of the over, but a throw from the players De Kock, Miller, 7-205, 8-273, 9-312 BOWLING: Rabada 10-2-43-1, Ngidi 9-0-66-1, Delhi, Bengaluru and Kolkata. torch relay on April 14 because fence by Aiden Markram was Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Phehlukwayo 10-0-67-2 Nortje 10-1-63-3, Shamsi Pictures: Twitter / @MIPALTAN, of a resurgence in coronavirus a direct hit and the batsman’s Nortje as they head to the 7-0-60-1, Markram 4-0-16-0 @ChennaiIPL cases there. excellent chance for a second Indian Premier League. Sport MONDAY 5 APRIL 2021 08 Valero Texas Open: Spieth shares lead with Wallace

REUTERS — SAN ANTONIO native of Dallas, both shot a shot back with a birdie at No. charge when he had a birdie 5-under-par 67. Charley 12. at No. 9, then roared home England’s Matt Wallace moved Hoffman, who also made a late While Hoffman and Spieth with birdies at Nos. 12, 14, 15, 18 holes away from his first charge, was alone in third were grabbing attention for 17 and 18, also just missing an career PGA Tour victory while place at 10-under 206. their solid back nines, Wallace eagle putt on the final hole. Texas native son Jordan Spieth “Started off lovely, that was quietly posting birdies at Spieth has 11 career vic- also has a line on victory settles you down,” Wallace Nos. 15 and 17 to take sole pos- tories, including three major heading into the final round of said. session of the lead. titles, but has not won since a the Valero Texas Open in San “I felt nervous, but that’s a He closed the third round three-shot victory in the 2017 Cale Makar controls the puck against the St. Louis Blues in the Antonio. good thing because we haven’t with another birdie at No. 18, Open Championship at Royal second period at Ball Arena. Wallace and Spieth were been in that situation for a leaving an eagle putt just short. Birkdale Golf Club at tied for the lead through three while, you know, with fans and A four-time winner on the Southport, England. rounds Saturday at 12-under being in Jordan’s home state.... European Tour, Wallace is Hoffman, whose last par at the TPC San Antonio I’m very happy with today’s trying to earn full-time status victory came at the 2016 Texas NHL: Avs extend AT&T Oaks Course as both work.” in the United States and would Open, will head into the final maintained their composure Hoffman shot a 7-under 65 help his cause with a victory. round needing a victory to despite a 2 1/2-hour weather and had the low round for the Hoffman had one of the advance to The Masters next delay. second consecutive day fol- more dynamic rounds of the week. point streak to “I hit some really nice lowing a shaky 3-over 75 in day, getting off to a modest “I think I like Augusta shots towards the end of the the opening round. start when he was 1-over par (National) as much as I like this round, left the ball in the right Second-round leader for the round through five place,” Hoffman said on the 14 with late goal spots when it was missed and Cameron Tringale had a one- holes. He caught fire from NBC broadcast. really, I did a great job man- shot lead heading to the back there, collecting birdies at Nos. “It’s somewhere I want to aging today,” Spieth said. nine Saturday before three 6 and 8 before making the turn get back to.... I have a lot of against Blues “I didn’t feel like I had consecutive bogeys starting at to the back nine. work to do (Sunday) to get great control of the golf ball. the 11th hole knocked him out He then went 6 under over there and if I don’t, I’ll be back REUTERS — NEW YORK RESULTS Just starting out on the range of the top spot. his final seven holes with an soon.” Avalanche 2, Blues 1 today I got into some bad He is alone in fourth place eagle 3 at the par-5 14th hole Anirban Lahiri of India was Cale Makar scored the Lightning 2, Red Wings 1 habits that I’ve been trying to at 8 under after a 1-over 73. and birdies at Nos. 16, 17 and alone in fifth place at 7 under, tiebreaking goal with 40.1 Sabres 3, Rangers 2 (SO) work my way out of and just Wallace had a steady third 18. while Tom Hoge, Gary seconds left in regulation, and thought I really needed to just round, starting fast with Spieth was 1-over par Woodland, Lucas Glover and the Colorado Avalanche Islanders 3, Flyers 2 (SO) manage the round well and birdies on his first two holes. through eight holes before he Matt Kuchar all were tied for extended their point streak to Wild 2, Golden Knights 1 kind of let chipping and He then carded eight consec- went on the attack similar to sixth place at 6 under. Hoge 14 with a stunning 2-1 victory Senators 6, Canadiens 3 putting kind of take over.” utive pars followed by a bogey Hoffman. moved into contention with a over the visiting St. Louis Blues Bruins 7, Penguins 5 Wallace and Spieth, a at No. 11 before getting that He showed signs of a 6-under 66 in the third round. on Saturday night in Denver. Predators 3, Blackhawks 0 After St. Louis failed to Panthers 5, Blue Jackets 2

clear the puck out of its own Stars 3, Hurricanes 2 zone, Makar picked it up off the Sharks 3, Kings 2 board and drilled a slap shot that deflected off the stick of St. Louis’ Jaden Schwartz and set by Anaheim against Calgary found its way past Blues rookie from 2004 to 2017. netminder Ville Husso (32 Also on Saturday, Tage saves) to break a 1-1 tie. Thompson scored the game- Nathan MacKinnon, who winning goal in the second scored twice in Friday’s 3-2 round of the shootout and host victory over St. Louis, had Buffalo completed its Wallace and Spieth were tied another goal, and Philipp Gru- comeback over New York, for the lead through three bauer made 27 saves for the despite two goals from Artemi rounds Saturday at 12-under West Division-leading Avs, who Panarin. par at the TPC San Antonio are amid a 12-0-2 stretch -- the Buffalo won for the second second-longest point streak in time in three games following AT&T Oaks Course as both club history. Colorado is also its 18-game losing skid (0-15-3). maintained their composure 11-0-1 in its last 12 at home. Thompson scored the only goal despite a 2 1/2-hour weather Ryan O’Reilly scored for St. of the shootout when he slowed delay. Louis, which is mired in a down as he approached the season-high 0-5-1 rut, and has crease and lifted a wrist shot dropped four straight on the over Igor Shesterkin (27 saves) road. just inside the left post. Wallace and Spieth, a native Meanwhile, Brayden Point Elsewhere, Mathew Barzal of Dallas, both shot a and Ross Colton each scored for scored the lone goal of the 5-under-par 67. Charley the second consecutive game shootout for New York, which Hoffman, who also made a as Tampa Bay continued its squandered a two-goal, third- mastery of Detroit on home ice. period lead before edging Phil- late charge, was alone in Jordan Spieth in action at In collecting its league- adelphia in Uniondale, N.Y. Valero Texas Open. third place at 10-under 206. leading 26th win, Tampa Bay Goalies Ilya Sorokin (30 stretched its winning streak saves) and Carter Hart (22 over the Red Wings at Amalie saves) kept the first four com- Arena in Tampa to 17 straight bined shooters out of the net -- the longest active home before Barzal descended upon streak by any team over one Hart and shuffled the puck opponent. The NHL record is several times before he sent a 25 consecutive home victories shot over Hart's pads. NFL: Brady’s NBA: Bucks fend off Kings’ late rally signed rookie card sells for as Doncic shines for Dallas Mavericks REUTERS — NEW YORK Jazz won their ninth straight record Dallas Mavericks overall and 22nd in a row at guard Luka Doncic $2.25m Jrue Holiday turned a short home. Utah set an NBA record jumper into a three-point play (77) dribbles the ball with 18 3-pointers in the first REUTERS — NEW YORK with 1:32 to go, then added a against Washington half, passing the 2018 Golden driving hoop 33 seconds later Wizards players. State Warriors (17). The so-called “Holy Grail” Saturday night, allowing the T' Blazers 133, Thunder 85 of Tom Brady’s rookie visiting Milwaukee Bucks to CJ McCollum scored 20 cards sold for a record stall a Sacramento Kings rally points in just 26 minutes as host $2.25m at auction to an and pull out a 129-128 victory Portland steamrolled Oklahoma anonymous buyer, two without Most Valuable Player City to win for the eighth time months after the Tampa candidate Giannis Antetok- in the past 11 games. Bay Buccaneers quar- ounmpo. Damian Lillard added 16 terback picked up his Holiday’s personal five- points in 25 minutes as the Trail seventh Super Bowl title. point flurry capped a season- Blazers led by as many as 52 The signed card from best, 33-point night. The Bucks points. The margin of victory is the 43-year-old’s rookie led 118-105 after a tip-in by Portland’s largest of the season. season with the New Brook Lopez with 6:48 Knicks 125, Pistons 81 England Patriots is one of remaining. But despite playing Julius Randle poured in 29 “only a handful ever on the second night of a back- points and grabbed eight offered for sale,” to-back, the Kings made an rebounds and visiting New York according to auctioneer energetic late push, scoring 14 built a 26-point, first-quarter Lelands, which called it of the next 15 points to tie the lead and cruised to a victory over the best Tom Brady rookie game at 119 on a Terence Davis Detroit. Reggie Bullock fired in card available to the 3-pointer with 2:06 to play. 22 points, including six public. 76ers 122, Timberwolves 3-pointers, as the Knicks The sale smashes the 113 snapped a three-game losing previous record price for Tobias Harris scored 32 streak and completed a three- a football card. Last points and Joel Embiid added game sweep of the season series. month, another card from 24 in his return from a 10-game 26 points, Jalen Brunson came running out with 17.8 seconds 26 points, with Myles Turner Heat 115, Cavaliers 101 Brady’s rookie season absence to lift host Philadelphia off the bench to score 19 and to play in overtime as part of his and Aaron Holiday adding 18 Bam Adebayo and Duncan fetched $1.32m in an to a victory over Minnesota. visiting Dallas wrapped up a 18-point performance as each. Robinson each had 18 points to online auction. Embiid added eight five-game road swing with a Indiana outlasted host San Jazz 137, Magic 91 lead a balanced scoring effort “The GOAT, Brady rebounds and three blocks in win at Washington. Antonio in overtime. Donovan Mitchell scored 22 by host Miami in a victory over now holds the distinction his first game since sustaining All five Mavericks starters The overtime was tied at points and led Utah’s 3-point Cleveland. Adebayo, who also of having the most a bone bruise in his left knee scored in double-figures, 130 with 3:46 remaining until barrage with six in a rout of had 11 rebounds and five assists, expensive football card during Philadelphia’s 127-101 including Tim Hardaway Jr. Indiana pulled away down the short-handed Orlando in Salt recorded his 24th double- ever sold,” Lelands Pres- win over the Washington with 16 points. stretch, with Turner converting Lake City. Joe Ingles and Bojan double of the season as seven ident Mike Heffner said in Wizards on March 12. Pacers 139, Spurs 133 (OT) three free throws and McCo- Bogdanovic each scored 17 Heat players scored in double- a written statement. Mavericks 109, Wizards 87 TJ McConnell canned a nnell hitting a pair of shots. points, while Jordan Clarkson figures to help secure their Luka Doncic finished with jumper with the shot clock Caris LeVert led the Pacers with threw in 15 off the bench as the fourth consecutive victory.