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Tuesday, October 3, 2017 Muharram 13, 1439 AH Muguruza exits on GULF TIMES the day of upsets at Open SPORT Page 2

FOCUS Doha all set to host FINA/Airweave Swimming World Cup

QNA onship have started to arrive in Doha. The Cup 2017 includes eight legs in the Middle Doha South African team was the fi rst to arrive with East, Europe and Asia. This year, the com- their star swimmer Chad Le Clos. The Hun- petition kicked off on August 2 in Moscow garian team, with the world champion Katin- and will conclude on November 19 in Sin- atar Swimming Association has ka Hosszu, and teams of Russia, Germany, gapore. Berlin, Hong Kong, Doha, , completed all preparations to Jamaica, Poland, USA, Netherlands, Australia and Tokyo complete the list of host cities host the 5th round of the FINA/ and Iran too have arrived. Some of the FINA for 2017. airweave Swimming World Cup, board members were received too. The rest of Le Clos claimed two silvers and a gold, whichQ will be held tomorrow and Thursday the delegations will be in Doha by today. in 50m butterfl y, at the Hong Kong leg on at Hamad Aquatics Center with the par- Qatar will be represented in the 5th Saturday. ticipation of 153 swimmers from around the FINA/Airweave Swimming World Cup by 12 “That’s four years undefeated now in the world. swimmers. 50m fl y short course. The last time I lost Delegations participating in the champi- The FINA airweave Swimming World was Doha 2013,” said Le Clos. South Africa’s Chad Le Clos will be making a trip to Doha for the event.

CRICKET / PAKISTAN VS SRI LANKA, 1ST TEST / SOUTH AFRICA VS BANGLADESH, 1ST TEST Rabada, Maharaj Wily Herath spins help South Africa SL to fi ghting win win fi rst Test AFP of the morning, putting on 15 before Potchefstroom, South Africa Mustafi zur pushed back a return catch to Maharaj. Bangladesh’s rapid demise meant he pace of Kagiso Rabada and that South Africa were hardly ham- the spin of Keshav Maharaj pered by the absence of Morkel, who sent Bangladesh crashing to a suff ered a side strain after taking the over Pakistan 333-run defeat on the fi fth day fi rst two on Sunday. ofT the fi rst Test against South Africa at Team manager Mohammed Moosajee Senwes Park yesterday. said Morkel required around six weeks Herath is second Sri Lankan after Muralitharan to bag 400 Test wickets Bangladesh lost seven wickets for 41 rest, ruling him out of the second Test in runs in less than an hour and a half as Bloemfontein, starting on Friday. AFP they were bowled out for 90 after being South Africa dominated the match Abu Dhabi set 424 to win. after Rahm’s surprising decision to South Africa’s victory was overshad- send them in to bat on an easy-paced owed by an injury to fast bowler Morne pitch, with Dean Elgar (199), new cap angana Herath became the Morkel, who is expected to be out for Aiden Markram (97) and Hashim Amla second Sri Lankan to bag 400 six weeks. (137) enabling them to score 496 for wickets as his six- haul Rabada started the destruction by three declared in the fi rst . steered Sri Lanka to a thrill- taking the fi rst three wickets of the Ring 21-run win over Pakistan in the morning. He fi nished with three for 33, SCORECARD fi rst Test in Abu Dhabi yesterday. while left-arm spinner Maharaj took SOUTH AFRICA 1st inns 496-3 decl. The veteran left-arm spinner took four for 25. BANGLADESH 1st inns 320 all out 6-43 — 11-136 in the match — to scup- Resuming on 49 for three, Bang- SOUTH AFRICA 2nd inns 247-6 decl. per Pakistan, set a modest 136-run ladesh lost their captain, Mushfi qur BANGLADESH 2nd inns (o/n 49-3) target, for just 114 on a weary fi fth day Rahim, to the 12th ball of the morn- T. Iqbal b Morkel 0 Sheikh Zayed Stadium pitch. ing when he pushed at a lifting deliv- I. Kayes c De Kock b Maharaj 32 The victory was achieved when ery from Rabada and was well caught M. Haque lbw b Morkel 0 Herath trapped last man Mohamed above his head by Hashim Amla at fi rst M. Rahim c Amla b Rabada 16 Abbas leg before for nought to give Sri slip for 16. Mahmudullah b Rabada 9 Lanka a 1-0 lead in the two-match se- Mahmudullah was bowled off an in- L. Das lbw b Rabada 4 ries. side edge when he played a tentative S. Rahman lbw b Maharaj 4 Herath, a long-time nemesis of Pa- defensive shot against the fast bowler M. Hasan 15 kistan, also completed 100 wickets in and Liton Das off ered no shot and was T. Ahmed lbw b Maharaj 4 20 Tests against them, during an in- leg before wicket to a ball which slanted S. Islam run out (Rabada) 2 nings in which only debutant Haris in to him. M. Rahman c and b Maharaj 1 Sohail fought with some resolve for Sabbir Rahman and Taskin Ahmed Extras (b1, nb2) 3 his 34 runs. were both leg before to Maharaj before Total (32.4 overs) 90 Herath became the 14th most suc- Shafi ul Islam was run out when he and Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Iqbal), 2-0 (Haque), cessful bowler in all and Sri Lanka’s (right) celebrates after dismissing Pakistan’s Mohamed Amir on Day Five of the first Test at Mehedy Hasan attempted a third run 3-49 (Kayes), 4-55 (Rahim), 5-62 (Mah- fi fth spinner behind his countryman Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi yesterday. (AFP) against the strong fi elding arm of Ra- mudullah), 6-67 (Das), 7-67 (S Rahman), Muttiah Muralitharan, Australia’s bada after a relay throw from 12th man 8-71 (Ahmed), 9-75 (Islam) Shane Warne and the Indian duo of Pakistan started the chase on a shaky Pakistan were given two key wickets N. Pradeep b H. Ali 0 Wayne Parnell, who chased a ball to : Morkel 5.2-2-19-2 (1nb), Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh to note when Herath dismissed opener by medium fast bowler Abbas who fi n- Extras (lb3, nb1) 4 long-off . Rabada 10-3-33-3 (1nb), Olivier 5.4-0- reach the 400-wicket milestone. Sami Aslam for two before accounting ished with 2-22. Total (all out; 66.5 overs) 138 Hasan and last batsman Mustafi zur 12-0, Maharaj 10.4-1-25-4, Phehlukwayo An unassuming Herath said he for Asad Shafi q, who made 20. It was then left to Shah who on con- Fall of wickets: 1-20 (Karunaratne), Rahman shared the best partnership 1-1-0-0 didn’t know why he always took wick- Herath had taken 5-93 in Pakistan’s secutive deliveries dismissed Perera 2-33 (Thirimanne), 3-51 (Silva), 4-65 ets against Pakistan. fi rst innings of 422 and this time he for six and then had Herath caught by (Chandimal), 5-73 (Mendis), 6-86 “I have no idea,” said Herath, who shared the new ball with Suranga Lak- close in fi elder to complete his fourth (Lakmal), 7-101 (Perera), 8-101 (Herath), took 22 wickets against Pakistan in mal to put Pakistan in trouble with consecutive fi ve wicket haul in as 9-135 (Sandakan) 2014 — a world record for a two-match regular wickets. many Tests. Bowling: Amir 12-4-27-0, Abbas 12-3- series. “Maybe I have played more Perera then had Shan Masood (sev- Dickwella then took a rearguard ac- 22-2 (1nb), Shah 27-5-51-5, H. Ali 7.1-0-21- against them, that’s why. en) and a shaky Babar Azam for three tion, shielding the number 10 Lakshan 1, Shafiq 3.4-0-7-1, Sohail 5-2-7-1 “I am so happy with the remarkable to leave Pakistan struggling at 32-4. Sandakan from the bowling during a achievement (400 wickets).” In between fast bowler Lakmal had resistance-packed ninth wicket stand PAKISTAN 2nd innings Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed Azhar Ali caught behind for nought. of 34 which came in 10.1 overs. S. Masood c Silva b Perera 7 called the defeat “disappointing”. On the either side of tea, Sohail Shah fi nally had Sandakan caught at S. Aslam c Karunaratne b Herath 2 “We should have won this,” said and Ahmed (19) fought hard to stitch point while Hasan Ali (1-21) ended the A. Ali c Dickwella b Lakmal 0 Ahmed, skippering his side for the a 42-run stand but Herath provided innings by bowling Nuwan Pradeep, A. Shafiq c Karunaratne b Herath 20 fi rst time in a Test. “We have a few is- the breakthrough when he forced the leaving Dickwell’s fi ght stranded. B. Azam c Dickwella b Perera 3 sues, especially in the fi fth day when Pakistan skipper out of his crease and H. Sohail lbw b Perera 34 we come under pressure.” had him by Dickwella. SCORECARD S. Ahmed st Dickwella b Herath 19 The 136-run target for Pakistan was Perera ended Sohail’s fi ght by trap- SRI LANKA 1st innings 419 all out H. Ali b Herath 8 Sri Lanka’s lowest target that they suc- ping him leg before and also had Shah PAKISTAN Ist innings 422 all out M. Amir b Herath 9 cessfully defended, improving on the but it turned out to be a no-ball, halt- SRI LANKA 2nd innings (o/n 69-4) Y. Shah not out 6 168 they had set the Pakistanis in the ing Sri Lanka’s celebrations, eventu- D. Karunaratne c Masood b Shah 10 M. Abbas lbw b Herath 0 Galle Test in 2009. It was also Pakistan’s ally provided by Herath. K. Silva lbw b Sohail 25 Extras (b1, lb4, nb1) 6 fi rst defeat at this venue in 10 Tests. Pakistan, led by Shah, bowled well L. Thirimanne c Sarfraz b Shafiq 7 Total (all out; 47.4 overs) 114 Earlier, leg-spinner Yasir Shah took in the morning. K. Mendis lbw b Abbas 18 Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Aslam), 2-7 (A. 5-51 — his 32nd fi ve-wicket haul in Sri Lanka, who resumed at 69-4, D. Chandimal c Shafiq b Shah 7 Ali), 3-16 (Masood), 4-32 (Azam), 5-36 Tests — to dismiss Sri Lanka for 138 in lost their last six wickets for 69 runs S. Lakmal c Babar b Abbas 13 (Shafiq), 6-78 (Ahmed), 7-98 (Sohail), their second innings. but Dickwella still put up a lone fi ght N. Dickwella not out 40 8-100 (H. Ali), 9-111 (Amir) Niroshan Dickwella ensured Sri — hitting four boundaries — and more D. Perera lbw b Shah 6 Bowling: Lakmal 5-1-12-1, Herath 21.4- South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada (centre) celebrates the wicket of Bangladesh’s Lanka had something to defend with a importantly giving Sri Lanka a target R. Herath c Masood b Shah 0 4-43-6, Perera 18-0-46-3 (1nb), Pradeep Mushfiqur Rahim (not in picture) on Day Five of the first Test in Potchefstroom, pugnacious 40. to fi ght. L. Sandakan c Amir b Shah 8 2-1-4-0,Sandakan 1-0-4-0 South Africa, yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times 2 Tuesday, October 3, 2017 TENNIS

SPOTLIGHT Chinese tennis needs to ‘grow up’, says

AFP love since she stepped off tour in was the only one to nese culture, could be holding Wang Qiang is part of that new , China 2014. reach the third round – the best players back. Peng is currently crop, says McNamara, and has yet “Actually, I didn’t like (that) ever performance by a home the top ranked Chinese player at to reach her full potential. “My people always remember me,” player in the tournament. 24, with Zhang at 26. girl is a baby. She’s 25 but she’s 20 i Na said she’s sorry said Li, who won the French Peter McNamara, Wang’s “They always say ‘Oh, I’m not as a tennis player,” he said. “This Chinese tennis has not Open in 2011 and the Australian Australian coach, said the high so good’ but for the sport you is the thing about Chinese play- moved on more since her Open in 2014. “That means Chi- expectations created by Li’s ca- have to show all of the world (you ers, they mature late.” retirement, as the coun- nese tennis didn’t grow up.” reer were a problem for Chinese are good),” Li said. Chinese tennis success has Ltry’s fruitless search for a new “(When) I decided to retire, I players. World number one Garbine mainly come from women, with champion continues. was thinking next day (new Chi- “I think it’s very intimidat- Muguruza also said she found Wu’s victory in New York an Li’s two titles set nese winners) would come,” she ing having such a great player Chinese players “very respect- anomaly. While there are fi ve the bar extremely high for her added. Hopes were high when and champion who did raise the ful on the court... very quiet”, in Chinese women in the top 100 fellow Chinese, who have la- reached the 2014 US bar to a level that’s pretty hard contrast to Li, who she described and 11 in the top 200, the top Chi- boured in vain to match her trail- Open semi-fi nals, shortly after to get to,” he said. “I never bring as having great “intensity”. nese man is 220-ranked Wu Di. blazing achievements. Li’s retirement, and Zhang Sh- it up, about trying to reach her Fabrice Chouquet, Wuhan co- McNamara said the divide The contrast was laid bare at uai won her second heights.” tournament director, told AFP could also be explained by cul- last week’s , where Open title this year. that tennis in China was in the ture in the country of the one- Li received a rock-star welcome Wu Yibing also became Chi- Maverick or modest? middle of a transition between child policy, where sons are during a brief appearance, but na’s fi rst boys Grand Slam sin- Li was always a special case for two generations. highly prized. none of the Chinese players went gles champion at last month’s Chinese tennis, as she took the “We have a solid number one “Boys get it fairly easy. Girls beyond the third round. US Open. But nobody has con- maverick step of breaking away and two here,” he said, referring don’t,” he said, adding: “They Following her rapturous re- sistently challenged at the high- from state control to forge her to Peng and Zhang. “And be- fi ght very hard, the girls. ception in Wuhan, her home city, est levels. career on her own terms. hind them a younger generation “You can see their mentality Li said she was disappointed that In Wuhan, fi ve Chinese wom- The 35-year-old said that of players that is really going to on the court. They will go to un- China hadn’t found a new star to en were in the main draw but modesty, a typical trait of Chi- come up.” told lengths to improve.”

CHINA OPEN FOCUS British star Robson caught in Las Muguruza exits on Vegas shooting

AFP 57-14 NFL loss at Houston. Washington “Terrible news coming out of my hometown, praying for all aff ected by this horrifi c ormer British wom- situation,” Murray said. “My the day of upsets en’s Tennis number thoughts are with the victims one Laura Robson was and their families.” among those at a Las US stock car auto racer Kyle ‘Just a tough day. There’s not really much to say about it. Just forget about it and move on’ VegasF concert where a gunman Busch, second in the cham- opened fi re and left at least 58 pionship chase as the season Beijing trend of upsets with a 6-2 6-2 people dead and more than winds down, was also strug- Reuters win over Russian Anastasia 500 injured. gling with the Vegas slayings. Pavlyuchenkova. Romanian The Australian-born British “Devastated to hear of and world number two Simona left-hander, ranked 249th in the senseless tragedy in my orld number one Halep’s match against Slo- the world and coming off a loss hometown,” he tweeted. “My Garbine Muguruza vak Magdalena Rybarikova was at an event in California on thoughts and prayers are with fell at the fi rst hur- moved to Wednesday after rain Friday, tweeted that she and a all of you.” dle at the China delayed play. friend were in the crowd when The National Hockey WOpen yesterday, with the Span- Unseeded Belgian Elise gunfi re began. League’s fi rst-year Vegas iard forced to retire due to illness Mertens pulled off a stunning “I’m okay,” she tweeted. Golden Knights, the city’s fi rst during her fi rst-round match comeback against Slovak eighth “We were right there.. sound- major US sports league team against Czech Barbora Strycova. seed Dominika Cibulkova, win- ed like fi reworks at fi rst then set to open their inaugural The Wimbledon champion ning 7-6(4) 6-1 despite trailing everyone started running. season Friday, tweeted sup- looked sluggish throughout and 5-0 in the fi rst set, and faces Scary shit. port for fi rst responders and was broken in the fi rst game be- Wuhan Open winner Caroline “My friend who was deeper condolences to the victims. fore losing the fi rst set 6-1. She Garcia of France in round two. in crowd has been helping “We extend our thoughts, was trailing 2-0 in the second Peng Shuai also had to dig people who were shot. We’re prayers and heartfelt condo- when she decided she could not deep to get past American Shel- all in shock.” lences to the victims, their continue. by Rogers, but the Chinese edged Sports stars from Las Vegas families and all those aff ect- “I got a virus in Wuhan and out her opponent 7-6(3) 3-6 and across the United States ed by the tragic events that I did not practice in Beijing. 7-5 in an epic match lasting two were stunned and saddened took place on the Las Vegas I thought an extra day’s rest hours and 48 minutes. Monday at the tragedy. Strip Sunday night,” the team would help, and didn’t want to American Coco Vandeweghe “Sad day. Love and prayers tweeted. pull out,” Muguruza said. “But I progressed serenely into the sec- #lasvegas. Let’s not let hate “We are grateful for our couldn’t perform today.” ond round with a 6-2 6-2 win win. Be kind to one another,” city’s brave fi rst responders, American qualifi er Christina over Croatia’s Donna Vekic, as wrote former heavyweight law enforcement and medi- McHale served up another shock did Russian Elena Vesnina whose boxing champion Mike Tyson, cal personnel and the cour- when she beat Sloane Stephens Polish opponent, Magda Linette, who lives in Las Vegas. age they demonstrated under 6-3 6-0 to send the US Open retired after losing the fi rst set “Speechless, pray for my unimaginable circumstances. champion crashing out in the 6-0. home,” US 2016 Olympics high We join in our city’s mourning fi rst round of a tournament for jumper Vashti Cunningham and off er our full support to the second week in a row. RESULTS wrote on Twitter. the people of Las Vegas to help Stephens, who is seeded 15th Women “The pride of Vegas runs grieve, heal and persevere.” in Beijing, was eliminated in the 2nd round deep when you are born and University of Nevada Las fi rst round of last week’s Wuhan Caroline Wozniacki (DEN) bt raised in such a great town. I Vegas ice hockey assistant Open by China’s Wang Qiang Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova can’t fathom the horrifi c event coach Nick Robone was among and was left lamenting another (RUS) 6-2, 6-2 that has taken place!” tweeted those shot at the concert, ac- poor performance. Alize Cornet (FRA) bt Angelique Washington Nationals out- cording to the team’s twitter “Just a tough day,” she said. Kerber (GER x10) 6-4, 6-4 fi elder Bryce Harper. page. He was said to be in in- “There’s not really much to say 1st round “My thoughts and prayers tensive care following surgery. about it. Just forget about it and Barbora Strycova (CZE) bt go out to the families that have The reigning Super Bowl move on, try to have a better lev- Garbine Muguruza (ESP x1) 6-1, been aff ected by this and to all champion New England Pa- el for the next tournament.” 2-0 retired the people that have lost their triots tweeted “our hearts are France’s Alize Cornet elimi- Coco Vandeweghe (USA x14) bt lives way too soon! Las Vegas I with everyone aff ected by last nated former world number one Donna Vekic (CRO) 6-2, 6-2 love you and stand with you.” night’s tragedy in Las Vegas” Angelique Kerber 6-4 6-4 in the Elena Vesnina (RUS) bt Magda Tennessee Titans running while the reigning World Se- second round in an evenly con- Linette (POL) 6-0, 0-0 retired back DeMarco Murray was a ries baseball champion Chi- tested battle that ended the Ger- Peng Shuai (CHN) bt Shelby three-sport high school star in cago Cubs tweeted, “We are man’s hopes of a fi rst title since Rogers (USA) 7-6 (7/3), 3-6, 7-5 Las Vegas and stunned by the deeply saddened by the tragic she won the US Open in 2016. Christina McHale (USA) bt incident following his club’s shooting in Las Vegas.” Kerber, the number 10 seed, Sloane Stephens (USA x15) 6-3, battled hard from the baseline 6-0 but was undone by Cornet’s deft Varvara Lepchenko (USA) bt Le- touches at the net. sya Tsurenko (UKR) 5-7, 6-4, 6-2 Heartbroken Nadal ‘wants Fifth-seed Caroline Woz- Elise Mertens (BEL) bt Dominika Garbine Muguruza of Spain walks off the court after retiring from her singles match against Barbora to cry’ over Catalan vote niacki of Denmark bucked the Cibulkova (SVK x8) 7-6 (7/4), 6-1 Strycova of the Czech Republic at the in Beijing yesterday. (AFP) Spain’s world number one Rafael Nadal said yesterday he was stunned and felt like crying following a banned independence JAPAN OPEN referendum in Catalonia and a police crackdown. Sunday’s plebiscite was organised under the threat of reprisals and criminal charges but thousands of Catalans stood in defi- ance of the central government in . Cilic routs Tsitsipas in Tokyo blowout Nadal, a national hero in Spain who spoke out before the referendum to condemn it, was visibly moved as he addressed AFP ending ATP Tour Finals in London. a press conference in Beijing, where he starts his assault on the Tokyo “At the end I was pleased with the way China Open today. I served and how I played,” added Cilic, a The 31-year-old, who grew up and lives on the Balearic island semi-fi nalist in Tokyo last year. of Mallorca but is also a Catalan speaker, said he had watched op seed Marin Cilic made quick South African Kevin Anderson, who was events of the weekend unfold “with concern and sadness”. work of Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsi- beaten by Rafa Nadal in the US Open fi nal Dozens of people were injured and Nadal said: “I want to cry pas yesterday, winning 6-3, 6-2 to last month, also advanced in straight sets, when I see a country where we have known how to co-exist and reach the second round of the Japan ousting Frenchman Gilles Simon 6-2, 7-6. be a good example to the rest of the world get to a situation TOpen. Fifth seed Anderson cracked 17 aces as he like this. I think the image we have presented to the world is The towering Croatian, runner-up to set up a meeting with American Ryan Har- negative.” Roger Federer at this year’s Wimbledon, rison, a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 winner over teenage The 16-time Grand Slam winner added: “It was a sad moment, took just 73 minutes to complete a one-sid- Japanese qualifi er Yusuke Takahashi. my heart sank all day. ed victory in Tokyo against a player ranked Elsewhere, controversial Australian Ber- “Moreover, from here, at a distance, you experience it diff er- 110 places below him. nard Tomic recovered from a wobble to beat ently. I have spent many parts of my life in Catalonia, important World number fi ve Cilic, a former US Portugal’s Joao Sousa 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 in his moments, and to see society so radicalised surprises and Open champion, rifl ed eight aces and totally fi rst match since June, while Frenchman disheartens me.” dominated on serve on a speedy hardcourt Adrian Mannarino dumped out another lo- Catalonia’s leader Carles Puigdemont says the region has won surface that suits his power game. cal favourite, Go Soeda, 7-5, 7-6. the right to break away from Spain after 90 percent of voters “He’s a good player, an upcoming star of The Japan Open has been played since chose independence. men’s tennis, who forced me to fi nd my best 1972 and its previous winners include a Nadal led the way in an unchanged top 10 of the men’s tennis level and a good rhythm,” said Cilic, who roll-call of the game’s greats, including Ken rankings issued on yesterday by the ATP. Wimbledon winner won 24 of his 29 fi rst service points and is Rosewall, John McEnroe, Pete Sampras, Fe- Roger Federer of Switzerland is at the second place. looking to cement his place at the season- derer and Nadal. Gulf Times Tuesday, October 3, 2017 3 SPORT

GOLF United States polish off lopsided Presidents Cup win The US led by 11 points overnight and needed just a point on Sunday to claim a seventh straight Cup

AFP Jersey City, United States

he United States polished off a 19-11 Presidents Cup win on Sunday over a battling International team whose fate was sealed over three punishing prior Tdays. Victory was in the bag when Daniel Berger went 3-up with three to play against South Ko- rean Kim Si-Woo — assuring himself of at least half a point to go with the half-point gained by Kevin Chappell against Marc Leishman in the fi rst match of the day. By the time Berger wrapped up his 2 & 1 victo- ry over Kim, victories for Aussie Jason Day and Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama were irrelevant and it was certain that US President Donald Trump would be presenting the trophy to the home side on Sunday evening. Trump arrived at Liberty National Golf Club — which lies in the shadow of the Statue of Lib- erty some 30 miles from his home at his Trump National Bedminster resort — just in time to see the Americans seal the win. He watched from the glass-walled clubhouse at the 14th green, before becoming the fi rst sit- ting US president to present the trophy. “What a feeling,” said Berger, who was informed by US captain Steve Stricker at the 16th that the Unit- ed States had clinched it. The Americans set themselves up for a stress- free Sunday by thrashing the internationals over 18 foursomes and fourball matches — allowing them just two wins over the fi rst three days. The US led by 11 points overnight and needed just a point on Sunday to claim a seventh straight Cup. “They came in here riding a ton of momen- tum and a ton of confi dence,” Stricker said of his players, who included the winners of the last three major championships.”It was about get- ting out of their way.” World number one Dustin Johnson halved his fi nal match with South African Branden Grace long after the Cup was decided. “It was re- ally weird being out there today, like knowing there was no chance of losing,” Johnson said. “I don’t know how to explain it but it was like I was playing golf with my buddies or something.” Patrick Reed also felt the lack of the usual Sun- day adrenaline. “It was diff erent but at the same The United States team celebrate with the trophy after they defeated the International Team 19 to 11 in the Presidents Cup at Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, New Jersey, on Sunday. (AFP) time it was kind of satisfying,” he said, “because of how well we played leading into today.” In the end their only satisfaction was denying a 3 & 1 victory over US star Justin Thomas — who Cup and Ryder Cup play. Daniel Berger (USA) bt Kim Si-Woo (KOR) 2 & 1 The Internationals, who won their only title the US bid to become the fi rst team to win every out-gunned him in the fi nal round of the PGA Charl Schwartzel (RSA) bt Matt Kuchar (USA) 1-up back in 1998 and played to a draw in 2003, were session. The Internationals won six matches Championship in August. RESULTS Louis Oosthuizen (RSA) bt Patrick Reed (USA) 1-up hoping for more after a narrow defeat in South on Sunday and halved three. Price admitted his Jhonattan Vegas of Venezuela defeated British United States 19 International team 11 Dustin Johnson (USA) vs Branden Grace (RSA) Korea two years ago. “This team had more buzz team “had our noses rubbed in it this week” but Open champion Jordan Spieth 2 & 1 — Spieth’s Sunday’s Singles halved going for it at the start of this week than any praised their rebound on Sunday, which assist- third singles defeat in three Presidents Cup ap- USA 4.5 Internationals 7.5 Adam Scott (AUS) bt Brooks Koepka (USA) 3 & 2 other team I’ve ever been on,” said International ant captain Ernie Els showed “serious charac- pearances. Among the US winners on the fi nal Kevin Chappell (USA) vs Marc Leishman (AUS) Jhonattan Vegas (VEN) bt Jordan Spieth (USA) 2 & 1 captain Nick Price. “We thought we had a great ter”. day, fi ve-time major-winner Phil Mickelson halved Kevin Kisner (USA) vs Anirban Lahiri (IND) halved game plan, but unfortunately it just didn’t pan World number three Matsuyama, noticeably downed Canadian Adam Hadwin 2 & 1 in his Jason Day (AUS) bt Charley Hoff man (USA) 2 & 1 Phil Mickelson (USA) bt Adam Hadwin (CAN) 2 & 1 out for us.” out-of-sorts over the fi rst three days, produced 100th match for the United States in Presidents Hideki Matsuyama (JPN) bt Justin Thomas (USA) 3 & 1 Rickie Fowler (USA) bt Emiliano Grillo (ARG) 6 & 4

SPOTLIGHT FERDINAND DOESN’T PLAN ON LENGTHY Mickelson eyes another Ryder Cup

SPELL AS BOXER AFP there. That would be a real big goal of Jersey City, United States mine,” he said. Mickelson hasn’t won a London: Former Manchester thing he is taking seriously. tournament since his 2013 British Open United star Rio Ferdinand “This is not a joke. Hope- triumph at Muirfi eld and only made the says his surprise move into fully, I will get a license, go on he United States’ 19-11 romp over Presidents Cup team as one of US captain boxing may only last one fight. to become a professional and the International team in the Steve Stricker’s wildcard picks. Ferdinand, who retired from fight someone,” he said. “Box- 2017 Ryder Cup only whetted Phil He’s the same age as US Ryder Cup cap- football in 2015, last month ing can’t be a gimmick. If I take Mickelson’s appetite for the 2018 tain Jim Furyk, but even on a team packed TRyder Cup. The 47-year-old American with 20-something talent — including announced his decision to step it lightly, I will get hurt.” into the ring and said he had Ferdinand, who won the made his 100th match in team competi- British Open champion Jordan Spieth, US ambitions of challenging for a six times and tion for the United States a win on Sun- Open Champion Brooks Koepka and PGA title. But the 38-year-old, who the Champions League once day with a 2 & 1 victory over Canadian Champion Justin Thomas — the player also played for England, West during his time at Old Traff ord, Adam Hadwin. they playfully dubbed “Grandpa” showed Ham, Leeds and QPR, now says he does not have an Mickelson posted his 26th Presidents just how useful he can be. admits his boxing career could opponent yet. If Ferdinand Cup match win — extending his record Mickelson fi nished with three wins and be short-lived. successfully obtains a license after tying and then surpassing the 24- one halved match for the week, partner- “I want to see if I can get a from the British Boxing Board win mark of Tiger Woods earlier in the ing with Presidents Cup newcomer Kevin licence and become a profes- of Control, he will follow fel- week. “This has been a fun, special week,” Kisner to win one foursomes and one sional and have one fight,” low former footballers Curtis Mickelson said. fourball and halve one foursomes match Ferdinand told the BBC yester- Woodhouse, Leon McKenzie “I’ve never been a part of a team all Phil Mickelson poses with his wife Amy, son Evan and daughter Sophia. (AFP) before his singles win over Hadwin. day . “I am not looking to have and Leo Roget in doing so. these years that’s this talented and gone “I’ve got a lot to work hard on, look a career here. I am looking to Former England cricketer An- out and lit the course up like this and had that’s just something we’ve never had,” 24 straight teams when the United States forward to and a lot of goals to achieve to have a professional fight and I drew Flintoff changed sports such a big lead going into Sunday singles.” said Mickelson, the only man to play in all take on Europe in the Ryder Cup in France make that team,” Mickelson said of Amer- will see where I go then.” and won his only professional The United States, up by 11 points on 12 Presidents Cups and now a veteran of next year. ica’s date next year with Europe at Le Golf Despite his admission, Ferdi- fight over four two-minute Saturday night, needed just one point 23 straight US match play teams includ- “Next year going to Paris and being National. “But I think that would be re- nand is adamant his attempt to rounds against Richard Daw- from Sunday’s singles to clinch the Cup. ing Presidents and Ryder Cup appearanc- part of The Ryder Cup Team — it’s been ally a career moment for me if we could go become a boxer was some- son in 2012. “This was a stress-free day for us, and es. Mickelson would dearly love to make it 25 years since we won a Ryder Cup over over there and keep The Ryder Cup.”

LPGA Henderson triumphs as Ko struggles

AFP under 69 to fi nish the tournament on much apart from the last two holes,” she my fi fth win on the LPGA Tour, it is in- Wellington 271, fi ve shots ahead of China’s Jing Yan said. “It was a tough fi nish but overall my credible.” in second place. Korea’s Hee Young Park game was solid. I had hoped a few more The $1.3mn tournament is the fi rst fi nished third on 277, while American putts would have dropped but I think I am LPGA event to be staged in New Zealand. anadian Brooke Henderson ex- Jennifer Song seized fourth after an im- saying that almost every week. There’s It was previously co-sanctioned by the celled in appalling conditions to pressive 68 in her fi nal round. always something left to improve.” Ladies European Tour, with Ko winning win the New Zealand Women’s Former world number one Ko, the de- She was not the only player unset- in 2016, 2015 and 2013. Open yesterday, as hometown fending champion, ended with a share of tled by the bad weather and delays, with Cfavourite Lydia Ko faltered in the stormy 22nd place on 283 after a horror run saw round three leader Spain’s Belen Mozo LEADING FINAL SCORES weather that forced the LPGA event into her drop fi ve shots on her fi nal two holes. shooting a six-over fi nal round of 78 to 271 — Brooke Henderson (CAN) 65-70-67-69 a fi fth day. Henderson, who was leading Ko, who has not won an LPGA event since fi nish tied on fi fth. Henderson, 20, said 276 — Jing Yan (CHN) 70-66-69-71 when wild winds stopped play at Auck- July last year, said playing in front of her the conditions were the most diffi cult she 277 — Hee Young Park (KOR) 69-70-69-69 land’s Windross Farm on Sunday, took home crowd “gave me goosebumps”. had played in. 278 — Jennifer Song (USA) 72-69-69-68 charge when her interrupted fi nal round But it failed to improve the 20-year- “I feel mentally drained by it but run- 279 — Su Oh (AUS) 69-70-69-71, Beatriz resumed, showing remarkable consist- old’s recent run of poor form as she dou- ning on adrenalin to know this trophy is Recari (ESP) 67-70-70-72, Belen Mozo (ESP) ency despite the conditions. ble-bogied the 17th and then triple-bo- mine,” she said. “This is so amazing to get 66-64-71-78. The world number 12 carded a three- gied the 18th. “I played really solid pretty my fi rst win outside of North America, 283 — Lydia Ko (NZL) 70-68-70-75 Gulf Times 4 Tuesday, October 3, 2017 SPORT

FORMULA ONE RUGBY Springboks have moved on from ‘Lucky’ Hamilton record defeat: coach

Reuters still learn.” Cape Town Coetzee described playing the All Blacks as always a nice challenge. “They are a well- outh Africa coach Al- oiled machine and what they fears Ferrari lister Coetzee is con- do is always sharp and crisp,” fi dent his side have he said. “Their players ooze laid to bed the ghosts confi dence. Our challenge is to ofS a 57-0 thrashing by New improve. We must focus on the Zealand last month and are process and not so much on ready for another clash with the outcome.” the All Blacks at Newlands on Saturday’s match is the Saturday. last for both countries in this backlash in Japan The humbling by the world year’s Rugby Championship champions was a record de- which New Zealand have al- ‘Yeah, definitely. We have some work to do. These next races are going to be crucial feat for the Springboks, who ready won. Daniel du Preez drew 27-27 with Australia in was recalled to the South Af- in terms of ironing out some of the creases we have with the car’ Bloemfontein on Saturday in rica squad yesterday to face their penultimate match in the New Zealand in Cape Town. Rugby Championship. The uncapped forward was “That 57 is out of the system already expected to be called already,” Coetzee told report- up for the fi nal-round match ers. “We’ve shown it by play- after No.8 Uzair Cassiem suf- ing against a fantastic Wal- fered a fractured rib during a labies side and being unlucky 27-27 draw against Australia not to win. last Saturday. To come back from that loss Although Jean-Luc du in Albany (against New Zea- Preez, Daniel’s twin brother, land) and then being in a po- came off the bench against the sition to win it (against Aus- Wallabies, his preferred posi- tralia) in the end has certainly tion is fl anker. Coetzee must turned the tables around,” Co- decide whether Jean-Luc or etzee added. Any chance his raw brother faces an All South Africa might have of a Blacks team that sealed a fi fth win over the All Blacks, who Rugby Championship title in have beaten the Boks in 14 of six attempts last weekend. their past 16 meetings, will be First-choice No.8 and determined by decision mak- Springboks skipper Warren ing at key moments. Whiteley sustained a groin “It’s important to start well injury during a Test against and it is key how your key France last June and has not players manage the game. We played since. South Africa have to be good at set pieces team doctor Konrad von Hagen and win the mini battles on the has said he hopes Whiteley fi eld,” Coetzee said. will be fi t for a tour of Europe, “You can’t give the All which starts against Ireland on Blacks the ball on a platter. November 11. They are a quality side.” Von Hagen said it will take Asked if there any lessons Cassiem “about six weeks” to South Africa might take from recover, making him a doubt- the British and Irish Lions, ful starter for a European tour who held the New Zealand- that also includes Tests in ers to a drawn series this year, France, Italy and Wales. Coetzee added: “The big dif- Wingers Raymond Rhule ference with the Lions was and Sibusiso Nkosi and prop how many more experienced Wilco Louw have also been players they had. They had a added to the squad for the composure that I don’t think New Zealand Test, but none Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton wipes his forehead on the podium of Malaysia Grand Prix in Sepang, Malaysia. (Reuters) you’ll see in our side yet. It’s are likely to make the match still a young team and they will day 23. AFP win from fi fth on the grid af- Hamilton. Ferrari speed gives some hope to Vettel Sepang, Malaysia ter avoiding the fi rst-lap crash Mercedes have dominated that took out both Ferraris and Formula One for the past four Sebastian Vettel fell further behind Formula One championship DEAL Verstappen. “We cannot be dis- years but it seems their era of su- leader Lewis Hamilton after Sunday’s Malaysian Grand Prix but the ewis Hamilton rode his tracted by the fact we got lucky premacy could be coming to an Ferrari driver still saw cause for optimism in the title battle. luck for the second race in again this weekend,” said Mer- end as both Ferrari and Red Bull Starting in last place after a power unit problem prevented him a row to stretch his world cedes team principal Toto Wolff . appear to have the better car. setting a time in qualifying, with his Mercedes rival lining up on pole Plumtree signs up championship lead over “Benefi ting from Ferrari’s “After a weekend where we position, the German made the best of a bad situation. LSebastian Vettel but said he fears a problems shouldn’t hide that have lacked a signifi cant chunk His remarkable recovery drive to fourth, combined with Hamilton Ferrari backlash in Japan this week. they have caught up 30 seconds of performance, we couldn’t being beaten by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, meant Vettel limited the for stint with Japan After fi nishing second in the this race,” he said. “It was clear have imagined such a good out- damage to six points. While that still stretched Hamilton’s overall Malaysian Grand Prix, Hamilton after just a few laps that both come, but we can’t let that dis- advantage to a hefty 34 points with only five of the 20 races left, it Reuters pect of coaching at interna- was asked by reporters if Fer- Red Bull and Ferrari had better tract us from the job we have in was better than the German might have feared. Wellington tional level,” Plumtree said in a rari’s pace was a big concern. cars than us today.” front of us,” said Wolff . “I am still optimistic, because we know that we have a quick car,” said Hurricanes’ statement yester- “Yeah, defi nitely,” he said. Hamilton could be handed “We leave Malaysia with a lot Vettel, who nearly snatched third from Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo. day. “It’s a great opportunity “We have some work to do,” another break in Suzuka as Vet- of question marks and we need “It’s been a diff icult weekend, but nevertheless the speed is there.” ellington Hur- to be exposed to a new culture he added before fl ying to Japan tel may incur a grid penalty if he to fi nd answers to them in the Vettel’s title hopes have been dealt a severe blow for two races in a ricanes assistant and new ways of coaching.” to prepare for Sunday’s race at needs a new gearbox after a cra- next days to ensure that we keep row now. An opening lap crash at the last race in Singapore, where he coach John Plum- Joseph, who was named Suzuka. “These next races are zy post-race shunt with Lance moving forward and racing at had started on pole, cost him 25 points to Hamilton, who capitalised tree has accepted as the coach of the country’s going to be crucial in terms of Stroll. The incident wrecked the the front in the fi nal quarter of Wa temporary job with the Japan Super Rugby Sunwolves team to win from fifth. ironing out some of the creases rear of the German’s car and he this championship,” he said. The four-times champion had gone into the Malaysian weekend 28 national team for the Brave as well last week, has already we have with the car.” will be demoted fi ve places on It was the second lucky break points behind his rival. Had Hamilton won on Sunday with Vettel Blossoms’ end of the year tests. recruited his former Otago Hamilton took his lead to 34 the grid in Japan if the gearbox in succession for Mercedes as at fourth, or outscored the 30-year-old by more than seven points, the Plumtree would join fellow Highlanders assistant Tony points after fi nishing behind Red needs changing. the previous race in Singapore Briton would have moved into a position to win the title no matter New Zealander Jamie Joseph’s Brown to his staff . Both are Bull’s Max Verstappen at the fi - In Malaysia an engine failure Hamilton won against all odds what the German did, including winning the next five races. Kimi staff as a defence coach for contracted until the 2019 Rug- nal running of the Malaysian saw Vettel fail to set a qualify- after Vettel, Verstappen and Raikkonen’s failure to start Sunday’s Malaysia race compounded a non-test match against a by World Cup in Japan. Grand Prix at Sepang on Sunday. ing time, condemning him to Raikkonen went out in a fi rst-lap Ferrari’s misery. World XV on October 28 and “Japan has a strong coach- But the drive of the day was the back of the grid despite Fer- collision. Vettel, meanwhile, could still be hit with a grid penalty at the next then for three tests in Novem- ing team with Jamie Joseph from the fl ying Vettel who rari having been fastest in prac- Britain’s Daily Telegraph race in Japan if he is forced to change his car’s gearbox following a ber, the Hurricanes said. and Tony Brown, and working carved his way from the back of tice. “It was a much better week- thus spoke of “another bullet bizarre post-race collision with Williams rookie Lance Stroll. Still, the “I see my coaching fu- alongside them will only add to the grid to fi nish fourth. Hamil- end than we had anticipated dodged” and “another gift for Maranello outfit can take some heart from the pace Vettel displayed ture as being fi rmly with the the knowledge and experience ton’s Mercedes also struggled for after our Friday. Considering the Mercedes,” adding: “They are and Mercedes’ struggles. Vettel set the fastest lap and a lap record on Hurricanes, but I jumped at I can add to the Hurricanes raw pace in Singapore a fortnight issues we did have with the car lucky that Hamilton’s talent is his charge through the field on Sunday. the chance when Japan ap- going forward,” Plumtree ago. But there he took a surprise this is a good result,” conceded such he can paper over cracks.” proached me about the pros- added.

SPOTLIGHT Malaysia signs off from F1 with a larger turnout

Reuters years and I think we have seen place on the calendar until 2021, on Sunday. The championship Sepang, Malaysia some thrilling events,” he told while China’s latest agreement battle between Mercedes’ Lewis reporters at a news conference runs to at least 2020. Hamilton and Ferrari’s Sebastian with Formula One Chief Execu- Ticket prices for Sepang were Vettel has provided a gripping alaysia gave Formula tive Chase Carey, adding that slashed by 82 percent this year narrative, however, even if Sun- One a rousing send- an eventual return could not be but crowds have been on the day’s race stretched the former’s off on Sunday with ruled out. wane, particularly since 2014 lead to a hefty 34 points. the country’s last Malaysia made its debut in despite the domination of Mer- Malaysia also made the sport MGrand Prix drawing its largest 1999 and pioneered the sport’s cedes backed by state-owned oil accessible to other countries in turnout in four years. regional push, with Japan until giant Petronas. the region as one of the most af- Organisers said a total of then the only other country in Offi cials say tourism returns fordable races to attend, and has 110,604 spectators went to Asia to have a race. China and have also been diminishing while been a favourite of international Sepang International Circuit Singapore, with a spectacular the high hosting fees have made spectators. near Kuala Lumpur’s interna- night race, have followed. the event fi nancially unviable. One of the most physically tional airport over the three days “We’ve had a great history The country’s annual MotoGP gruelling events on the calen- of practice, qualifying and Sun- here,” said Carey, who replaced race draws much bigger crowds. dar, with its heat and strength- day’s race. former supremo Bernie Eccle- Sepang CEO Razlan Razali sapping humidity, has also been That was the largest weekend stone in January. “But change is told Reuters on Friday that Ma- a real challenge for drivers. turnout since 2013, the season part of life. laysia would not want to host “I think it has provided very before Formula One replaced the “We’re actually very excited Formula One even if it were of- good racing,” said Vettel, who screaming 2.4 litre V8 engines about the opportunities we have fered for free, with the sport not moved up from last to fourth in with quieter 1.6 litre turbo-hy- in Asia in general. serving up enough excitement to Sunday’s race won by Red Bull’s brid power units. It was also 31.9 “We have a number of places draw in the local crowds. Max Verstappen. percent more than last year. where we have great interest and “The attraction for the Ma- “I’m not obviously involved Malaysian Prime Minister Na- new opportunities to continue to laysian fans is the problem, in why we’re not racing here any jib Razak said it was a sentimen- grow the sport.” especially since 2014. That is more but, who knows, maybe tal moment. Singapore has just signed a something that for us as a pro- we’re back after a year’s break or “We have hosted this for 19 fresh four-year deal securing its moter is diffi cult to sell,” he said two.” Fans throng into the Sepnag race track to see winner Redbull’s Max Verstappen at the podium. (Reuters) Gulf Times Tuesday, October 3, 2017 5 SPORT

NFL Bills stun Falcons, Brady’s Patriots stumble at home Bills’ AFC East rivals Patriots suff ered their second home defeat this season as Panthers closed out thrilling 33-30 win

AFP Los Angeles

he Atlanta Falcons saw their unbeaten start to the NFL sea- son come to a shuddering halt Sunday with a 23-17 defeat to Tthe Buff alo Bills on a day of upsets. The Falcons, last season’s beaten Super Bowl fi nalists, saw their perfect start derailed after a gritty performance by the Bills. Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan threw for 242 yards from 24 of 42 at- tempts, but only connected for one touchdown. Opposite number Tyrod Taylor fi n- ished with 182 yards, but it was good enough to see the Bills improve to 3-1 to lead the AFC East. The key moment at Atlanta’s Mer- cedes Benz Stadium came in the third quarter when Tre’Davious White gal- loped 52 yards for a touchdown follow- ing a Falcons fumble. A Stephen Hauschka fi eld goal put the Bills 17-10 ahead only for Ryan to connect with Justin Hardy with a three-yard pass to level the scores. However two monster Hauschka fi eld goals — from 56 and 55 yards — put the Bills up 23-17 and they held on to claim a deserved win. “We knew coming into it that they had a very good defense,” Falcons star Buff alo Bills kicker Stephen Hauschka (second from left) kicks a field goal in the fourth quarter of the NFL game against the Ryan said. “They have a lot of talent Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, on Sunday. (USA TODAY Sports) and we just made too many mistakes out there.” cued the reigning Super Bowl champi- year is diff erent,” said Brady. “We just rookie quarterback Deshaun Watson A good day for the Bills got better ons again after fi nding Dion Lewis and haven’t done a good job at home.” had another scintillating performance when AFC East rivals the New England Danny Amendola in quick succession In Dallas, the Los Angeles Rams in a 57-14 thrashing of the Tennessee Patriots suff ered their second home to tie. maintained their impressive start to Titans. defeat of the season as the Carolina the season with a 35-30 upset over the Watson threw for four touchdowns, Panthers closed out a thrilling 33-30 NEWTON DECISIVE Cowboys at the AT&T Stadium. fi nishing with 283 yards after making win at Gillette Stadium. But Panthers quarterback Cam New- Rams quarterback Jared Goff fi nished 25 completions from 34 attempts. In the night game, the Seattle Sea- ton led his team upfield with a deci- with 255 passing yards and two touch- In the early game in London, Drew hawks took care of business by defeat- sive 10-play drive to engineer Gano’s downs, while the defense sacked Cow- Brees passed for 268 yards and two ing the Indianapolis Colts 46-18. winning kick with no time left on the boys quarterback Dak Prescott three touchdowns to lead the New Orleans Scotland-born Panthers kicker Gra- clock. times to help set up the win. Saints to a 20-0 win over a lackluster Tom Brady (right) of the New England Patriots and Chris Hogan watch as Graham ham Gano sealed a pulsating win for Newton fi nished with 316 passing Rams running back Todd Gurley Miami side. Gano (not pictured) of the Carolina Panthers hit the game-winning field goal Carolina with a 48-yard fi eld goal with yards for three touchdowns and also meanwhile outshone Cowboys coun- The win saw the Saints improve to during their MLB game in Foxboro, Massachusetts, on Sunday. (AFP) just four seconds remaining. rushed for one score as the Panthers terpart Ezekiel Elliott, fi nishing with 2-2 after an 0-2 start to the season. Gano’s winner was the fi nal act of a improved to 3-1 in the NFC South. 121 rushing yards and a further 94 re- “Those fi rst two weeks weren’t what RESULTS Dallas 30 LA Rams 35 dramatic fourth quarter which had seen “I feel like this was a breakthrough ceiving yards. we aspired to be — we played two really Miami 0 New Orleans 20 Baltimore 9 Pittsburgh 26 Tom Brady lead the Patriots back from a game for us off ensively,” said Newton. The Rams, under the guidance of good football teams,” Brees said. Atlanta 17 Buff alo 23 Houston 57 Tennessee 14 30-16 defi cit to level at 30-30. The Patriots meanwhile fell to 2-2 in Sean McVay, the youngest head coach Since then, “we’ve had two road wins New England 30 Carolina 33 Tampa Bay 25 New York Giants 23 Brady, who fi nished with 307 passing the AFC East, with Brady left admitting in the NFL at just 31, now lead the NFC at Carolina and here against the Dol- Cleveland 7 Cincinnati 31 LA Chargers 24 Philadelphia 26 yards including two touchdowns with the team were way off their peak. West with a 3-1 record. phins, who have a really good defense Minnesota 7 Detroit 14 Denver 16 Oakland 10 no interceptions, looked to have res- “There’s no guarantees and every Elsewhere Sunday, Houston Texans and are a really good football team.” New York Jets 23 Jacksonville 20 Seattle 46 Indianapolis 18

Yankees MLB host Twins as MLB No homer history for Stanton, but playoff s begin Marlins fans gave standing ovation Reuters Los Angeles By Clark Spencer Braves GM Coppolella The Miami Herald (TNS) resigns amid probe he New York Yankees will host the Minnesota Twins iancarlo Stanton had a nice Atlanta Braves general manager Tin the American League’s day at the plate. John Coppolella has resigned, the wild card elimination game to- He just didn’t have a his- team announced yesterday even day as Major League Baseball’s toric one. as Major League Baseball contin- GStanton went 2 for 5, recorded the post-season gets underway. ued an investigation into whether The winner of the single game hardest-hit base hit in the brief his- the Braves violated rules about knockout will face the AL tory of Statcast — a 122-mph single — signing international players. Central champion Cleveland but failed to produce a home run that A day after concluding their fourth Indians in the AL Division Series would have given him 60. consecutive losing season at 72-90, starting on Thursday. The Marlins closed out the season the Braves announced in a state- The Indians finished with the with an 8-5 loss to the Braves. ment that “the resignation comes best record (102-60) in the Included in the crowd of 25,222 were as a result of a breach of Major AL this season, courtesy of a incoming owner Derek Jeter and his League Baseball rules regarding the league-record 22 successive predecessor, Jeff rey Loria. With noth- international player market.” victories from Aug. 24 — Sept. ing at stake in terms of the outcome, “Major League Baseball is inves- 14. all eyes were glued on Stanton to see tigating the matter with our full The AL West champion Houston whether he would become the sixth co-operation and support,” said Astros, who finished 101-61, player in Major League history to hit at Braves president of baseball op- host the AL East champion least 60 home runs. erations John Hart. “We will not be Boston Red Sox (93-69), with He came up short, becoming only the issuing any further comment until their ALDS also beginning on second player to hit exactly 59 homers. the investigation is complete.” Thursday. The other: Babe Ruth in 1921. In what Hart will perform general manag- The Colorado Rockies and was very possibly his fi nal at-bat as a er duties while the team searches Arizona Diamondbacks will Marlin, Stanton struck out swinging. for Coppolella’s replacement. meet in the National League’s The crowd gave him a standing ova- Coppolella was general man- wild card playoff on Wednesday, tion, and Stanton raised his bat in salute. ager of the team for the past two with the winner to face the NL He was the majors’ home run leader, Miami Marlins’ Giancarlo Stanton (centre, also inset) gets a standing ovation from fans after striking out at the bottom of the seasons and oversaw the revamp West champion Los Angeles however, driving in another run to cap- ninth inning during the game against Atlanta Braves in Miami, Florida, on Sunday. (Miami Herald/TNS) of the club’s talent development Dodgers from Friday. ture the National League RBI title with system, which has been rated The Dodgers finished with the 132. Marcell Ozuna hit his 37th homer the ninth, Stanton, Ozuna and Chris- 60-59, over the Reds’ Billy Hamilton. ing but good memories.” among the best in the major best record in the majors (104- and drove in two more runs to fi nish tian Yelich stood in center fi eld and Loria was on hand to watch his fi nal The new ownership group led by leagues, and the club’s move into 58) courtesy of a strong first with 124, the third-highest fi gure in embraced. game as Marlins owner on Sunday and Sherman and Jeter is expected to close a new stadium this year. part of the season, when they the majors. Stanton wasn’t the only Marlin try- acknowledged feeling emotion as he on the deal Monday. Hart, with Coppolella as his top were 61-29 by the All Star break, They became the fi rst National ing to make history on Sunday. Ichiro bid the organization goodbye after 17 assistant, took command of the and would have home field League teammates to rank among the Suzuki was attempting to equal the seasons at the helm. “Of course,” Loria RESULTS Braves’ operations after Frank advantage for the World Series top three in RBI in the majors since Joe major league record of 28 pinch hits said. “I love the game. But it’s time for Cincinnati 3 Chicago Cubs 1 Wren was dismissed as general if they make that far. Morgan and George Foster of the Reds held by John Vander Wal. He, too, came somebody else to do it.” Arizona 14 Kansas City 2 manager in September 2014. The NL East Champion Wash- did it in 1976. up short, fouling out in his pinch at- The Marlins went 1,243-1,347 during Milwaukee 6 St. Louis 1 ington Nationals host the NL It might have been the fi nal time the bat in the sixth to fi nish with 27. Loria’s ownership for a win percentage Atlanta 8 Miami 5 Houston 4 Boston 3 Central Champion Chicago two players shared the same outfi eld, as Jose Urena failed to record his 15th of.480. The Marlins never won a division Tampa Bay 6 Baltimore 0 Philadelphia 11 NY Mets 0 Cubs in the other NLDS series there is increasing speculation that Jeter win as the Marlins squandered a 4-3 title during Loria’s tenure but did capture Cleveland 3 Chicago White Sox 1 Oakland 5 Texas 2 beginning on Friday. will begin a roster rebuild after taking lead that put him in line for the victory. the 2003 World Series after making the Minnesota 5 Detroit 1 Pittsburgh 11 Washington 8 over as owner with Bruce Sherman. Dee Gordon didn’t steal any bases but playoff s as a wild-card team. “It’s turning a LA Dodgers 6 Colorado 3 San Francisco 5 San Diego 4 As they took the fi eld in the top of held on to win the NL stolen base title, page,” Loria said. “But I can think of noth- LA Angels 6 Seattle 2 Toronto 2 NY Yankees 1 Gulf Times 6 Tuesday, October 3, 2017 FOOTBALL

LA LIGA SPOTLIGHT Ventura fears Isco stars in Madrid’s Italian World Cup ‘catastrophe’ win over Espanyol things that happen,” said Ventu- AFP Milan ra. “De Rossi is out and he will go (back to Roma) — besides him we will have to do without Pellegrini Political tension bubbled over at Bernabeu where Real fans waved Spanish flags oach Giampiero Ven- and Verratti too. All three will be tura says “it would be a missing, but whoever plays will AFP catastrophe” if injury- hopefully prove themselves to Madrid hit Italy failed to qualify be an important resource for the Cfor the 2018 World Cup with key national team.” qualifi ers looming against Mac- “We are still Italy and we have sco scored twice as Real Madrid re- edonia and Albania. to improve on so many things,” duced the gap on leaders Bar- Italy look set to go through he continued. “When we meet celona to seven points courtesy of a the play-off s as they sit second stronger teams we have to be 2-0 win over Espanyol on a day where in Group G behind Spain before well prepared, before the World Ifootball was dragged into violent political Friday’s clash against Macedonia Cup we will have so many train- clashes in Catalonia. in Turin followed by a trip to Al- ing sessions, while now we have Barca had earlier on Saturday extend- bania three days later. only 48 hours. Once we qualify ed their perfect start in La Liga to seven “I’d say it would be a catastro- we can do some experiments but games in extraordinary circumstances as phe,” Ventura told a press confer- for the moment it’s not possible, they beat 3-0 behind closed ence at the team’s training camp we need certainties.” doors at the 99,000 capacity Camp Nou at Coverciano outside Florence Italy face Macedonia on Octo- following the police crackdown over an when asked about the possibil- ber 6 and then travel to Albania independence vote deemed illegal by the ity of missing out on the fi nals for an October 9 clash that will Spanish government. in Russia. The four-time world be the country’s 800th interna- At least 91 people were injured as Span- champions need only a point tional, and their fi rst on Albanian ish riot police fi red rubber bullets and from the two matches to secure soil. forced their way into activist-held poll- second place in the group and a ing stations. Following La Liga’s refusal to spot in the play-off s. REVISED ITALY SQUAD: abandon the match, Barca decided to play But the Azzurri could do with Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Buff on behind closed doors as a means of pro- maximum points to boost their (Juventus), Gianluigi Donnarumma test. Outspoken Barca defender Gerard standing in the world rankings (Milan), Mattia Perin (Genoa) Pique broke down in tears as he described (they are currently 17th), and en- Defenders: Davide Astori (Fioren- the day as “the worst professional experi- sure they are seeded for the play- tina), Andrea Barzagli (Juventus), ence I have had in my life.” off draw next month. Leonardo Bonucci (AC Milan), The political tension also bubbled over “I’m not thinking about the Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Danilo at the Santiago Bernabeu where Real fans play-off s, we need to think about D’Ambrosio (Inter Milan), Matteo waved Spanish fl ags and sang ‘Viva Es- the next two matches and then Darmian (Manchester United/ENG), pana’ (long live Spain). On the fi eld there based on who we meet we’ll Daniele Rugani (Juventus), Leon- was far less confl ict as Real eased to an weigh things up,” said Ventura. ardo Spinazzola (Atalanta), Davide 11th consecutive win over Barcelona- Ventura confi rmed that Roma Zappacosta (Chelsea/ENG) based Espanyol for their fi rst home league captain Daniele De Rossi was out Midfielders: Nicolo Barella win of the season. against Macedonia with a knee (Cagliari), Bryan Cristante (Ata- “We have to be happy. The important injury with Inter Milan midfi eld- lanta), Daniele De Rossi (Roma), thing was the three points after three er Roberto Gagliardini called up Roberto Gagliardini (Inter), Marco games without winning here,” said Ma- in his place. Lorenzo Pellegrini, Parolo (Lazio) drid coach Zinedine Zidane. Isco was de- Marco Verratti and Andrea Be- Forwards: Federico Bernardeschi nied the opening goal inside 30 seconds lotti have already been sidelined (Juventus), Antonio Candreva (In- by Espanyol goalkeeper Pau Lopez. with niggling problems. ter), Stephan El Shaarawy (Roma), Atalanta’s Bryan Cristante, Lorenzo Insigne (Napoli), Simone who nabbed the equaliser for Verdi (Bologna), Eder (Inter), POINTS TABLE a 2-2 draw against Juventus on Manolo Gabbiadini (Southampton), Sunday, received his fi rst call-up Ciro Immobile (Lazio), Roberto (played, won, drawn, lost, for, against, points) for the national team. “These are Inglese (Chievo) Barcelona 7 7 0 0 23 2 21 Sevilla 7 5 1 1 9 3 16 Valencia 7 4 3 0 15 7 15 A Madrid 7 4 3 0 12 4 15 Real Madrid 7 4 2 1 13 6 14 Real Madrid’s Isco gets past Espanyol’s Sergi Darder during the La Liga match at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid. (Reuters) Real Betis 7 4 1 2 14 11 13 Leganes 7 3 2 2 5 3 11 But the Spanish international made no the end of a rapid counter-attack. “He is cia’s two-goal cushion before Raul Gar- Real Sociedad 7 3 1 3 17 17 10 mistake when he prodded home Cristiano a player that plays like he’s on the street,” cia’s late consolation. The game of the Villarreal 7 3 1 3 9 9 10 Ronaldo’s pass for the opener on 30 min- Zidane added on Isco’s impressive form. day was undoubtedly at Anoeta where Levante 7 2 3 2 8 10 9 utes. Ronaldo volleyed over and then fi red “I like that. He doesn’t worry when things Real Sociedad and Real Betis drew 4-4. Celta Vigo 7 2 2 3 13 11 8 straight at Lopez when clean through. don’t go his way.” Three times Betis led thanks to goals Getafe 7 2 2 3 9 7 8 However, Espanyol had a slew of chances Victory lifts Madrid up to fi fth behind from Antonio Sanabria, Zoudhair Feddal, Athletic Bilbao 7 2 2 3 9 9 8 themselves to level. Barca, Sevilla, Valencia and Atletico Ma- Joaquin and Sergio Leon. Espanyol 7 2 2 3 7 11 8 Gerard Moreno hit the post just before drid. Valencia’s great start under Marce- But Sociedad kept roaring back as Di- Deportivo 7 2 1 4 9 16 7 the break, whilst Keylor Navas denied lino Garcia Toral’s tutelage continued ego Llorente’s header four minutes from Girona 7 1 3 3 6 11 6 Marc Navarro and Nacho produced a with a thrilling 3-2 win over Athletic Bil- time salvaged a point after earlier strikes Las Palmas 7 2 0 5 5 13 6 brilliant goal line clearance to prevent Leo bao. Simeone Zaza and Dani Parejo’s pen- from Willian Jose, Mikel Oyarzabal and Eibar 7 2 0 5 3 17 6 Baptistao a tap in. alty gave the hosts a 2-0 half-time lead. Xabi Prieto. Villarreal get off to a win- Alaves 7 1 0 6 3 10 3 Espanyol’s profl igacy was fi nally pun- Aritz Aduriz reduced the arrears for ning start under new coach Javi Calleja as Malaga 7 0 1 6 4 16 1 ished 19 minutes from time when Isco Athletic, who have now gone six games Cedric Bakambu hit a hat-trick to see off curled home his second of the evening at without a win. Rodrigo restored Valen- Eibar 3-0. Italy coach Gianpiero Ventura.

SERIE A ROUND-UP Atalanta fi ghtback Versatile Mbappe in Deschamps’ thoughts frustrates Juventus AFP Alvaro Odriozola, Jonathan Viera and Clairefontaine-en-Yvelines, France Aritz Aduriz yesterday to replace the AFP second four minutes later. But injured Dani Carvajal, Andres Iniesta and Milan on-loan Juventus defender Mat- Alvaro Morata respectively for World tia Caldara turned in a rebound rance coach Didier Deschamps Cup qualifi ers against Albania and Israel to pull one back for Atalanta after enthused over the attacking this week. apoli took sole posses- half an hour to keep the hosts in versatility of teenage starlet Lopetegui also has the task of calming sion of top spot in Serie touch at the break. Mario Mand- Kylian Mbappe as Les Bleus look tensions around the squad in the wake A on Sunday night with zukic thought he had scored for toF secure World Cup qualifi cation this of Gerard Pique’s statement that he a 3-0 win over Cagliari 3-1, but it was disallowed when weekend. Deschamps’s team face Bul- will retire from international football Nas champions Juventus’s win- the video assistant referee ruled garia and Belarus in their fi nal two World if Lopetegui or the Spanish Football ning run stalled 2-2 at Atalanta. Stephan Lichtsteiner had el- Cup qualifi ers, knowing a pair of victo- Federation deem his defence of an The stalemate ended the six- bowed Gomez in the face. ries would book France’s ticket to Russia. independence referendum for Catalonia time defending champions’ run Bryan Cristante nodded in a The pacey Mbappe has mostly operated problematic. Real Sociedad full-back of six consecutive wins leaving Alejandro Gomez cross to level as a central striker or, similar to former Odriozola and Las Palmas midfi elder them joint second with Inter Mi- on 67 minutes for Atalanta who French star forward Thierry Henry, on Viera have received their fi rst call-up to lan — who beat Benevento 2-1 — fi nished fourth in Serie A last the left side of a front three during his the Spanish senior side, while veteran with big-scoring Napoli top on a season. Paolo Dybala missed a short career. But Deschamps believes he 36-year-old striker Aduriz is rewarded maximum 21 points. chance to grab the winner nine can perform equally well on the right, for his fi ne early season form. “I was worried at the end, as minutes from time when Juven- where he’s been positioned for new club Spain lead Group G of European we could have lost it and every tus were awarded a penalty after Paris Saint-Germain this season. qualifying by three points from Italy with point will be precious come the an Andrea Petagna handball in “He’s doing great things with Paris. France’s Kylian Mbappe (right) poses with a fan for a selfie before a training session in one win from their fi nal two games likely end of the season,” said Juven- the box. But Albanian goalkeeper He’s playing lots of matches and con- Clairefontaine-en-Yvelines en Yvelines, France, yesterday. (AFP) to be enough to automatically qualify for tus coach Massimiliano Allegri. Etrit Berisha saved the kick to fi rming what he’d shown at Monaco (last next year’s showpiece in Russia thanks Juventus had been two goals up frustrate the Argentine striker season), while improving,” said Des- GERMANY’S WERNER OUT OF Leroy Sane up front against the Irish. to their far superior goal diff erence over in Bergamo after Federico Ber- who nevertheless remains top of champs. “He’s more on the right at Paris, N IRELAND QUALIFIER Germany are already without world- the Italians. nardeschi opened on 21 minutes the Serie A goalscorers with ten although with a lot of freedom. He’s a Germany have injury woes up front class goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, out until and Gonzalo Higuain added a so far. forward, he can play well down the mid- for their key World Cup qualifi er against January with a fractured foot. VAN DIJK RECEIVES BELATED dle, on the left, and there were big doubts Northern Ireland after fi rst-choice In midfi eld, Loew is missing Mesut DUTCH CALL-UP about what he could do on the right, striker Timo Werner pulled out yester- Ozil, Sami Khedira and Mario Goetze, Defender , who only because we’d not seen him play there, day. After eight straight wins, Germany who is still below-par after having only returned to Southampton’s starting and (now) we realise he can perform well need just a point in Belfast on Thursday returned in August following seven line-up at the weekend, has been called in that area too.” to be sure of a place at Russia 2018. months off with a metabolic disor- up to the Netherlands squad for their up- France hold a one point lead over Swe- However, the world champions have der. Germany expect a tough match in coming World Cup qualifi ers, the Dutch den in Group A but both the Netherlands both Werner, 21, and veteran striker Belfast, where Northern Ireland have football association (KNVB) said. and Bulgaria are still in contention to Mario Gomez sidelined by injury. Gomez yet to concede a goal in their four home Van Dijk, 26, returns to the national take either automatic qualifi cation or the twisted an ankle last month while Wern- qualifi ers so far. The world champions side for the fi rst time this year after play-off spot that second place would er is out with neck and spine problems. ran out 2-0 winners when the teams met injury ruled him out of matches in March off er. France travel to Bulgaria on Sat- The RB Leipzig forward had complained in Hanover last October. Bayern Munich and June. He came on as a substitute for urday before hosting minnows Belarus of dizziness in last Wednesday’s Cham- defender Jerome Boateng is set to make the south coast side against Crystal Pal- three days later. pions League game at Besiktas, where the his fi rst appearance for more than a year. ace last month and made his fi rst start on Any slip-up could cost them top spot, problems fi rst emerged. In Neuer’s absence, Barcelona’s Marc- Saturday in the away defeat at Stoke City. at the least, particularly with Sweden Germany’s head coach Joachim Loew Andre ter Stegen is set to keep goal. Van Dijk has 12 caps for the Neth- hosting Luxembourg on Saturday, where has said he will not call up replacements. erlands, who must beat Belarus away three points are expected. “It’s a decisive Loew is likely to start either Moencheng- SPAIN REPLACE INJURED MORATA, in Borisov on Saturday and Sweden at Atalanta’s Bryan Cristante (second left) celebrates with teammates week since it’s the fi nal two pool games,” ladbach’s Lars Stindl, Hoff enheim’s INIESTA, CARVAJAL home next Tuesday to have any chance of after scoring against Juventus in Serie A on Sunday. (AFP) added Deschamps. Sandro Wagner or Manchester City’s Spain coach Julien Lopetegui drafted in reaching the World Cup fi nals next year. Gulf Times Tuesday, October 3, 2017 7 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Arsenal can prove doubters wrong: Wenger AFP Manchester City fall through. Con- Sunday’s fi xture marked the 21st an- London vinced Arsenal, who have won six of niversary of Wenger’s arrival in north their last seven matches, are now uni- London. The 67-year-old, who has won fi ed again, Wenger believes they can three Premier League titles and seven rsene Wenger believes Arsenal enjoy a successful season. “I knew that FA Cups, said he was initially unaware are ready to silence the crit- after the game in Liverpool everybody of the milestone occasion. ics who wrote them off in the would write us off and I knew it just “I did not know about it. I was told aftermath of their humiliat- depends on us, how much we respond,” by the press,” he said. “I wouldn’t like ingA loss against Liverpool. Wenger’s Wenger said. to refl ect too much on that. I have kept side have been revitalised since the 4-0 “Nothing is permanent. You’re not focus on my job always under good and mauling at Anfi eld in August and they bad in a permanent way, if you can do bad circumstances. When you are 21 maintained that momentum with a 2-0 something about it, and you’re not years somewhere you know that you win over Brighton on Sunday. good in a permanent way, if you don’t have good and bad moments. Nobody Nacho Monreal’s fi rst Premier keep your urgency. We responded in a can make 21 years and only fl y. What I League goal since 2013 put Arsenal united way and we have put some wins love in the game is to deal with bad mo- ahead in the early stages and Alex Iwobi together and some good performances ments and fi nd the response.” wrapped up the points after the inter- as well.” Arsenal head into the interna- Meanwhile, Brighton manger Chris val at the Emirates Stadium. The Gun- tional break level on points with cham- Hughton felt his team gave a good ac- ners have now taken 10 points from four pions Chelsea and six behind leaders count of themselves on their fi rst visit league games since that embarrass- Manchester City. Wenger admits he to Arsenal in 34 years. “When you ment on Merseyside, a loss so woeful will be sleeping better during the time come here, you know it’s going to be that it sparked fresh calls for Wenger’s off than he did during the last break, a diffi cult afternoon, you know it is,” resignation from fans who had protest- which came immediately after their Hughton said. ed against him last season. Anfi eld horror show. “They’ve got such quality, you have Wenger is convinced the transfer “Our last international break was to set up your team. It’s very diffi cult window, which shut days after the a nightmare, this one is a bit better,” to be very expansive here, particularly Liverpool defeat, had destabilised his he added. “I would have loved to con- when you’re a team like we are that’s team, with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain tinue to play but we cannot do anything just got promoted. Concentration lev- and Kieran Gibbs leaving and Alexis about that. Let’s hope that the players Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger watches his team in action against Brighton & Hove Albion during the Premier League els have to be very much for 90 minutes Sanchez seeing his mooted move to come back in a good shape.” match in London on Sunday. (Reuters) with what they’ve got,”

PREMIER LEAGUE Everton’s Moshiri Klopp looks for solutions backs Koeman

London: Everton manager Ronald Koeman still has the “total support” of majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri to Liverpool’s woes despite the club’s dismal start to the season. The big-spend- ing Toff ees have won just Liverpool are already languishing seven points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City twice in the league and their record of seven points from AFP conceding are far too easy,” former Liv- seven matches leaves them London erpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland said. two points clear of the drop zone, in 16th place. CALAMITY KEEPERS The Goodison Park club are eralded as Liverpool’s sav- Klopp’s decision to rotate goalkeepers also struggling in the Europa iour when he was appointed Simon Mignolet and Loris Karius has League after a 3-0 defeat at two years ago, Jurgen Klopp exposed his lack of a true number one. the hands of Atalanta and a has cut an increasingly tetchy Mignolet has endured a diffi cult time at disappointing home draw Hfi gure in recent weeks as the Reds boss Anfi eld since joining from Sunderland against Apollon Limassol of struggles to fi nd the winning formula at in 2013 and his penchant for costly mis- Cyprus. Moshiri thinks the Anfi eld. takes convinced Klopp to sign Karius supporters deserve better In contrast to his success with Borus- from Mainz last year to push the Belgian but believes a tough run of sia Dortmund, Klopp is still looking for international. fixtures and injury problems his fi rst silverware in England and, af- So far the move has not had the de- are factors behind Everton’s ter a 1-1 draw at Newcastle on Sunday, sired eff ect. Mignolet is no more con- poor run. Liverpool are already languishing seven vincing and Karius has made a blunder The players were booed points behind Premier League leaders or two himself. Karius’s failure to keep off after a 1-0 home defeat Manchester City. out Fernando’s long-range free-kick in to Burnley on Sunday, which Klopp’s side have won only one of Liverpool’s draw against Spartak Mos- Moshiri described as the their past seven matches in all compe- cow last week brought fresh criticism, only “unexpected” loss of the titions and his record to date compares but Klopp remains defi ant. “I don’t un- campaign. After the game, unfavourably to his Liverpool predeces- derstand how you can talk after a game Koeman said he was not sor Brendan Rodgers’ statistics over the like this about this one situation. I don’t worried about his future and same period. With in-form rivals Man- think it was a mistake but probably you Moshiri has made it clear that chester United due on Merseyside for have another opinion,” he said. the Dutchman has the back- Liverpool’s next match on October 14, ing of the board. Klopp must use the international break KEEPING COUTINHO HAPPY “We’re in a bad moment to solve his team’s damaging problems. Given Liverpool’s problems with turn- — but we have played three Here is a closer look at the issues that ing possession into points, arguably of the four title contenders threaten to derail Liverpool’s season: Klopp’s biggest concern will be keep- away,” Moshiri said. “(Burnley) ing Coutinho motivated after the Bra- was the only unexpected loss. LACK OF CUTTING EDGE zil forward was denied his wish to join The four pre-qualifying UEFA If Klopp’s colourful description of Jurgen Klopp’s biggest Barcelona. Coutinho handed in a trans- games and two group games goals being “the mother of football” is concern will be fer request in a bid to force Klopp to sell on Thursdays haven’t helped. correct, then Liverpool are in danger keeping Phillipe him before the transfer deadline, but There is mental fatigue and of being orphaned. With 137 chances Coutinho motivated even when Barca’s bids climbed over seven injuries. These are early created, Liverpool have had the most after the forward was £100mn, Liverpool refused to budge. days and Koeman has my opportunities to score of any Premier denied his wish to join Forced to return to Liverpool, the total support. We have great League team this season, but have net- Barcelona. (AFP) 25-year-old has kept his frustrations fans — they deserve better. ted only 13 times. in check so far, scoring three times in We know the honest and While Manchester United, Chelsea his past three appearances, including a objective expectations of our and Arsenal all splashed out on for- last season in terms of having a lot of conceded more goals than Liverpool attempt to sign Southampton centre- long-range rocket at Newcastle at the supporters and will not let wards in the close-season, Klopp opted games where they didn’t score and had this season, with the 12 allowed by back Virgil van Dijk. , Joel weekend. Klopp must ensure Coutinho them down.” against signing a penalty box predator lots of chances. At the end of the season Klopp’s leaky rearguard a stark contrast Matip, Ragnar Klavan, Alberto Moreno retains that focus for Liverpool to have Everton have already faced and the decision looks like coming back they just went and bought Lukaku and it to their title rivals. Manchester City and and Joe Gomez comprise a distinctly any chance of a successful season. both Manchester clubs and to haunt him. Out-of-favour forward looks like that problem at the moment is Manchester United have let in only two fl awed unit, with Klopp’s commitment “He has put his frustration into Chelsea away from home in is often on the bench fi xed. Liverpool didn’t fi x the problems goals each, with Tottenham (fi ve) and to attack also leaving his defenders with games and is playing with freedom. He the Premier League as well as and Liverpool are paying for their lack that needed fi xing.” Chelsea (six) also far more solid. little protection from the midfi eld. has been fantastic,” Liverpool captain hosting Tottenham at Goodi- of cutting edge. Klopp is clearly aware of Liverpool’s “If they keep defending the way they said. “We all love son Park. Their only point Anfi eld legend Jamie Carragher said: DEFENSIVE MISHAPS defensive malaise as he spent most of are at the minute they’ve got no chance him. A lot of things happen in football. from those matches came in a “You take it back to Manchester United Only two Premier League teams have the close-season engaged in a failed (of winning the title). The goals they are Phil has been brilliant.” 1-1 draw against City.

ROUND-UP Bayern’s Ribery out for ‘weeks’ over torn knee ligament ayern Munich confi rmed yesterday that forced their way into polling stations, often Liverpool and West Brom. Lambert, who scored veteran winger Franck Ribery will violently removing activists, to confi scate bal- three goals in 11 appearances for England, said be out for “the coming weeks” after lots left at least 92 people confi rmed injured out in a statement: “I have had some ups and downs tearing a knee ligament. The 34-year- of a total of 844 who needed medical attention, in my career but to have represented clubs like oldB had to be helped off in the 62nd minute of according to Catalan authorities. In light of the Southampton, Liverpool and playing for my Bayern’s 2-2 draw at Hertha Berlin on Sunday incidents, Barca played their match against Las country in a World Cup were beyond my wild- and German media expect the Frenchman to be Palmas behind closed doors on Sunday. Barca est dreams. Playing and scoring for England is out for up to three months. president Josep Maria Bartomeu said the club probably my proudest professional moment Bayern said Ribery’s aff ected left knee will be made the decision as a protest against the vio- and I will look back at every aspect of how I got “treated conservatively and rested for several lent clashes rather than security concerns. there with fond memories.” weeks with a splint”. That means he will not The vast majority of Barcelona’s stars, undergo an operation. Ribery has already begun including fi ve-time World Player of the Year THREE NATIONS WANT TO REPLACE rehabilitation but further therapy and train- Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique, who has been KENYA AS CHAN HOSTS ing will be decided at a later date depending on an outspoken defender of Catalonia’s right to Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea or Morocco will the healing process, the Bundesliga champions self-determination, wouldn’t have trained with replace Kenya as hosts of the 2018 African said. Earlier, broadcaster Sky had reported that Barca on Tuesday in any case as they are on in- Nations Championship (CHAN), the organis- Ribery would be out for between two and three Dortmund. Caretaker coach Willy Sagnol was police of an independence referendum called ternational duty with their respective nations. ers said yesterday. A Confederation of African months. The injury is a particular blow to the in charge after Carlo Ancelotti was sacked on by pro-separatist politicians for the region on Football (CAF) statement said one of the three Frenchman, who is out of contract at the end of Thursday in the wake of the 3-0 Champions Sunday. “FC Barcelona joins the country wide EX-ENGLAND STRIKER countries will be selected this month to host the season, and Bayern, who are already with- League drubbing at Paris Saint-Germain. strike called for by Table for Democracy and RICKIE LAMBERT RETIRES the January 12-February 4 tournament. out captain and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer until therefore the club will be closed tomorrow,” Former England and Liverpool striker Rickie Original hosts Kenya fell behind with fi ve- January with a fractured foot. BARCA TO JOIN CATALAN Barca said in a statement yesterday. “None of Lambert announced his retirement from venue preparations for the biennial 16-team For the second league match running, Bayern STRIKE TODAY the professional teams or the youth teams at FC football yesterday. The 35-year-old has been tournament, leading them to be stripped of the threw away a two-goal advantage. It left the Barcelona will join a strike called across Cata- Barcelona will train tomorrow.” without a club since leaving Cardiff City in July hosting rights last month. Morocco are widely Bavarian giants fi ve points off leaders Borussia lonia today in protest at a violent crackdown by Clashes as police fi red rubber bullets and after Premier League spells with Southampton, regarded as favourites to replace Kenya.

Tuesday, October 3, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING SPOTLIGHT Al Shaqab is leading owner of EPIQE Series challenge QREC celebrates

Agencies Chantilly, France Qatar Prix de l’Arc

he EPIQE Series came to its con- clusion on Sunday with the Qatar de Triomphe at Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Al Shaqab Racing won the Towners league, with 61 points against 32 Souq Waqif points for Flaxman Stables Ireland and 30 points for Prince Khalid Abdullah. By Sports Reporter tar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe has Benoit Jeff roy, Al Shaqab’s stud man- Doha witnessed major Qatari achieve- ager in France, received the trophy fol- ments, chief among them Al lowing the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triom- Shaqab Racing’s Treve, who won phe race at Chantilly on Sunday. s racing action heated the prestigious feature for two “Winning the EPIQE Series challenge up in Chantilly, France, straight years — 2013 and 2014. proves Al Shaqab’s excellence in France and for the Qatar Prix de The event at Souq Waqif simu- its ability to win prestigious races against l’Arc de Triomphe this lated the atmosphere of the race- strong competitors. This was clearly dem- pastA weekend, the Qatar Racing course in Chantilly and the audi- onstrated by having almost double the and Equestrian Club (QREC) or- ence enjoyed the live broadcast points of Flaxman Stables Ireland, besides ganised some family entertain- of the races on the screen, as well winning three legs of the challenge: the ment at Souq Waqif on Saturday as all the other fun activities. Abu Dhabi Poule d’Essai des Poulains and and Sunday. “Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Tri- the QIPCO Prix du Jockey Club thanks to Benoit Jeff roy (centre), Al Shaqab’s stud manager in France, receives the award in Chantilly on Sunday. (Right) Al Shaqab Racing Families were able to enjoy omphe is an integral part of our Brametot, and the Prix du Haras de Fres- executive director Khalifa bin Mohamed al-Attiyah. (Scoopdyga and Juhaim) pony rides, face painting and proud commitment to promot- nay-le-Buff ard – Jacques Le Marois with Al a photo booth to capture their ing Qatar as a world class hub for Wukair,” Al Shaqab Racing executive direc- “Wajnah, fourth in the Abu Dhabi tot, fi fth in the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Tri- forward to maintaining excellence and memories of the day while enjoy- horse racing and a leader in the tor Khalifa bin Mohamed al-Attiyah said. Poule d’Essai des Pouliches, and Brame- omphe, also added to the tally. We look winning prestigious titles.” ing the races live on the screens. pure Arabian breed. This event is One of the biggest racing events an opportunity to share our pas- in the world, it is being sponsored sion with the local community FOCUS by Qatar since 2008. The weekend and cements our eff orts in bring- boasts a prestigious two-day rac- ing the joy of racing and breed- ing programme with no fewer than ing to the wider public,” QREC 15 fl at races, nine of which have general manager Nasser Sherida Group 1 status, the highest cat- al-Kaabi said. egory of horse race. QREC represents, promotes The past weekend was also an and advances equine and eques- opportunity to watch Purebred trian initiatives from grassroots Roof pillars installed Arabians in action; these elegant programmes to the international horses contested in the Qatar arena. Focused on equestrian Arabian World Cup, the second sport and horse welfare, QREC is leg of the Doha Triple Crown. dedicated to promoting Qatar as at Al Wakrah Stadium In its previous editions, the Qa- a world class hub for horse racing. 540-tonne pillars are the main support for the retractable roof

he late Zaha Hadid’s vision for the traditional Qatari dhow boat-in- spired iconic Al Wakrah Stadium is on track with two mega pillars Tbeing installed on site as the main support for the roof structure. The 540-tonne pillars resembling curved hockey sticks are the main support for the retractable roof of the arena de- signed by the late British-Iraqi architect. The roof steel elements for the columns originated in China and were preassem- bled in Italy and later shipped to Qatar. Thani al-Zarraa, SC Project Manager at Al Wakrah Stadium, said, “The fact that the design of this stadium will bring the late Zaha Hadid’s vision from paper into structural form is in the back of every- one’s mind.” He added: “It is both a privilege and a challenge to be working on such a unique project, which combines elements of our cultural heritage in the form of the dhow boat with the architect’s iconic struc- QSL Cup kicks off today tures. With the installation of the roof support pillars, we are honouring her After round three of the QNB Sunday evening. design and are well on track to the com- Stars League came to an end, FIXTURES pletion of the stadium by the end of next clubs have started preparation TODAY year.” for the QSL Cup which is due to 17:45 Al Duhail vs Qatar SC There are seven tower cranes on site start today. The 12 teams have Al Gharafa Stadium now and two 600-tonne cranes that were been divided into two groups, 19:55 Al Gharafa vs Al Khor used to install the pillars that resemble with the first game in Group Al Duhail Stadium hockey sticks and measure approximately A to be held today. Group B 19:55 Al Kharaitiyat vs Al 30 metres. will play their games tomor- Sailiya The 40,000-seat stadium will have a row. A number of teams have Al Wakrah Stadium retractable roof that will be able to close started their training ahead of TOMORROW in approximately half an hour using a the competition. Al Markhiya, 17:45 Al Sadd vs Al Markhiya number of steel wires brought together who play Al Sadd tomorrow Al Duhail Stadium at an oculus support in the centre of the night, started their training on 19:55 Al Rayyan vs Al Ahli roof. This light sleeve will provide shade Saturday evening. Al Sailiya, Al Shamal Stadium to the entire pitch and contribute to the who play Al Kharaitiyat tonight, 19:55 Umm Salal vs Al Arabi effi ciency of the cooling system before the began their preparation on Al Wakrah Stadium match. (SC.qa)

Qatar national team trains ahead of friendlies

Qatar national team players take part in a training session at Aspire Zone yesterday. Qatar is scheduled to play three international friendlies, against Singapore Qatar coach Felix Sanchez. PICTURES: Fadi al-Assaad (October 5) and Curacao (October 10). The U23 squad is scheduled to host Mexico on October 8.