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Sunday, May 5, 2019 FOOTBALL Sha’baan 30, 1440 AH Spurs stunned, GULF TIMES Elliott becomes EPL’s youngest player SPORT Page 2

ATHLETICS Abubaker becomes fi rst Qatari Pakistan to qualify for 2020 Olympics to unleash

By Sports Reporter ards announced by the IAAF, male ath- Doha letes specialising in the 800m must clock 1:45.20 or better during the pe- riod between May 1, 2019 and June 29, teen pace bubaker Hayder Abdalla has 2020. bagged the honour of becom- Abubaker had clocked 1:44.33 on way ing the first Qatari athlete to to the gold medal at the Asian Athletics A qualify for the 2020 Olym- Championships, but that was in April pic Games in Tokyo following his per- and hence not counted for Olympic sensation formance in the Doha Diamond League qualification. He finished a creditable meeting on Friday. fourth on Friday in Doha in the 800m The 22-year-old clocked which was won by Botswana’s Nijel 1min44.82secs in the 800m on Friday, Amos in1:44.29. easily surpassing the qualifying time of Other Qatari athletes expected to on World 1:45.20 seconds set by the Internation- qualify for the Olympics are world high al Association of Athletics Federations jump champion Mutaz Barshim, 400m (IAAF) in March. hurdler Abderrehman Samba and 200m According to the qualifying stand- specialist Abdelelah Haroun. Cup rivals AFP MOTORCYCLING

our years ago, two- time World Cup winner Steve Waugh predicted Fyoung fast bowler Mo- hamed Hasnain would one day make a name for himself on France’s Quartararo the international stage. Now the 19-year-old can prove Waugh right after his blistering pace earned him a call-up to Pakistan’s squad for the World Cup. Pakistan’s chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, a member is youngest rider to of the country’s fi rst and only victorious World Cup squad in 1992, called the young bowler a “surprise package”, while leg- He could also feature in to- endary paceman day’s one-off T20 clash against says he sees shades of himself England in Cardiff . in the ultra-quick, destructive Soon after his 12 in teen. the PSL’s fourth edition, Ha- claim MotoGP pole Tall and with a wide smile, snain was picked to play for Hasnain has turned heads af- Pakistan against Australia in ter fi rst arriving on the national a one-day series in the United ‘It was an enormous lap. I was on the limit all the way round. scene in 2015 and sending down Arab Emirates. balls at a blistering 150kph Although he took just two This circuit is fantastic and it’s truly my greatest achievement’ (93mph). wickets in three games, Aus- Hasnain’s rise to Pakistan’s tralian batsmen were troubled AFP senior squad has been simi- by his pace — a trait Pakistan’s Jerez de la Frontera, larly rapid — he made his one- head coach Mickey Arthur day international debut within said could be a game-changer a week of leading the Quetta for his squad.“His pace is the renchman Fabio Quartararo Gladiators to the Pakistan Su- most impressive and he has the snatched the fi rst MotoGP pole per League (PSL) title. potential of an international position of his career when he “It’s a great honour to rep- player,” said Arthur.“He could Fedged Yamaha-SRT teammate resent Pakistan and the honour be the X-factor for us.” Franco Morbidelli at the Spanish Grand multiplied when I was named Former great Waqar also Prix yesterday. in the World Cup squad,” Ha- lauded Hasnain’s pace, as well At 20 years and 14 days old, Quartararo snain told AFP. as his grit. became the youngest rider ever to take “I am on cloud nine and “He is very talented, has pole in MotoGP, breaking the record held ready to make batsmen strug- pace and bounce and the deter- by Marc Marquez who was 20 years and 62 gle with my speed. I love to mination,” said Waqar. days old when he won pole in the GP of the bowl fast and that is my strong “I have told him not to lose Americas in 2013. point.” his pace, which is his strong World champion Marquez, a two-time Hasnain made his way to the point. I wish him the best of winner of the event, was third fastest international stage from the luck.” yesterday, to complete the front row of dusty pitches of sun-bleached Inzamam says Hasnain has the Jerez grid as MotoGP marks its 300th Hyderabad in southern Pa- the potential to keep the com- race.. “It’s incredible,” said Quartararo kistan, where he was men- petition off -balance and the who is in his rookie season in the top divi- tored by renowned coach Iqbal ability to surprise any team. sion of motorcycling. It was an enormous Imam. “I think he could be the sur- lap. I was on the limit all the way round. “Hasnain played Under-16 prise package and can at any This circuit is fantastic and it’s truly my and Under-19 for Hydera- time win us a match. He has greatest achievement.” bad and right from the start express pace and can damage The two young riders on the Yamaha his pace has been impressive,” and can surprise any team,” satellite outfi t eclipsed their elders on the recalled Imam, a former fi rst- said Inzamam. class cricketer who had played “I have faced 150kph in my MOTOGP GRID alongside Inzamam. career and it’s not easy. It sends In 2015, he was selected in shivers down your spine.” 1st row Pakistan’s Under-15 team to Hasnain will fi rst get his 1. Fabio Quartararo (FRA/Yamaha-SRT) 1min tour Australia. chance to shine in the fi ve- 36.88sec, 2. Franco Morbidelli (ITA/Yamaha- “I remember that at the match one-day international SRT) at 0.082, 3. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) Bradman ground near Sydney, series against England — start- 0.090 Steve Waugh came to watch his ing on May 8 — ahead of the 2nd row Petronas Yamaha SRT’s French rider Fabio Quartararo (L) celebrates with Repsol Honda Spanish rider Marc Marquez after winning son Austin and he saw Shaheen World Cup. 4. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 0.138, 5. pole position for today’s Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez. Shah Afridi and Hasnain in ac- “I didn’t know much about Maverick Vinales (ESP/Yamaha) 0.234, 6. Cal tion. He predicted that the two Steve Waugh when we met,” Crutchlow (GBR/Honda-LCR) 0.295 lead Yamaha team. onship where he achieved many podi- Earlier Italian Danilo Petrucci on a boys will make an impact at the he said. “But later I got to know 3rd row Spaniard Maverick Vinales qualifi ed ums and victories. He has already beaten Ducati recorded the fastest time in free international level,” said former that he was a World Cup win- 7. Danilo Petrucci (ITA/Ducati) 0.329, 8. fi fth, while on the other factory Yamaha, a world record which is the youngest practice and became the fi rst man to ever coach Mohamed Masroor. ner, a great batsman and a Takaaki Nagakami (Honda-LCR) 0.452, 9. Alex Italian veteran Valentino Rossi, who is poleman so tomorrow I will try to stop lap the recently resurfaced Jerez track in Shaheen played for Pakistan shrewd . Rins (ESP/Suzuki) 0.471 second in the overall standings, was 13th him from beating another record — the under 1min 37sec, breaking the record in all three formats last year “His words were inspiring 4th row fastest.“I am happy about the day but if youngest winner.” held by Crutchlow. and is also in the World Cup and I want to prove him right. 10. Francesco Bagnaia (ITA/Ducati-Pramac) tomorrow is warmer, everything becomes The second row on the starting grid for The morning session was briefl y halted squad, meaning both players I know the England series is a 11. Jorge Lorenzo (ESP/Honda) 0.616, 12. Joan more diffi cult,” said Marquez who was today will be made up of world champion- after Crutchlow crashed and hit the air can now seize their opportu- big chance for me and then the Mir (ESP/Suzuki) full of praise for the French pole-sitter. ship leader Andrea Dovizioso on a Ducati, fence on Turn 10. The Briton was unhurt nity at the tournament in Eng- World Cup. I will do my best to “I know him from the Spanish champi- Vinales and Cal Crutchlow on a Honda. but the fence punctured and defl ated. land and Wales. make a name for myself.” Gulf Times 2 Sunday, May 5, 2019 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE COPA AMERICA HOSTS BRAZIL CONFIRM QATAR FRIENDLY Rio de Janeiro: Brazil will Porto Alegre — a Copa America play World Cup hosts Qatar in host city — on June 9. Bournemouth stun one of their last two friendlies The hosts kick-off the Copa before the Copa America gets America, which they have won underway in June, the Brazilian eight times, against Bolivia Football Confederation (CBF) in Sao Paulo on June 14. The said yesterday. final will be played at Rio de Asian champions Qatar are Janeiro’s iconic Maracana to make their Copa America on July 7. nine-man Tottenham debut in Brazil as one of two Brazil coach Tite is due to invitees to the South American name his tournament squad tournament alongside Japan, on May 17. They are in Group A making their second appear- alongside Venezuela and Peru, Fulham’s 16-year-old Elliott becomes ’s youngest player ance. Brazil will host Qatar in while Qatar play Argentina, the capital Brasilia on June 5 Colombia and Paraguay in before playing Honduras in Group B.

SPOTLIGHT Cardiff relegated from Premier League aft er Palace defeat

AFP if the 70-year-old returns for the Cardiff , United Kingdom Championship promotion bid next term. In a painful twist, Cardiff were ardiff City have been pushed towards relegation by relegated from the Palace winger , Premier League after who spent time on loan with slumping to a 3-2 defeat Cardiff when they last dropped againstC Crystal Palace yesterday. out of the Premier League in Neil Warnock’s side needed a 2014. The Ivory Coast interna- win to have a realistic chance of tional, booed by Cardiff fans, beating the drop on the last day gave an infl uential display on his of the season, but they were out- return to south Wales and fi red classed by Palace at the Cardiff Palace in front from the edge of City Stadium. the area in the 28th minute. Third bottom Cardiff are four Martin Kelly gifted Cardiff a points behind fourth bottom lifeline three minutes later when Brighton with only one game re- the Palace defender tried to cut maining, ensuring they will join out Leandro Bacuna’s cross but already relegated Huddersfi eld instead diverted the ball into his and Fulham in the second tier own net when he could have left next season. The Bluebirds will it for goalkeeper Vicente Guaita make an immediate return to the to collect. Bournemouth’s Nathan Ake (centre) scores in the Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur yesterday. (Reuters) Championship after last season’s Kelly’s blunder did little to ease promotion, their fate sealed by Cardiff ’s obvious anxiety and AFP Arsenal, currently fi fth, will move to Fulham. Belgian midfi elder Dendoncker Pellegrini’s men since January 5, but the a dismal run of nine defeats in on-loan Chelsea striker Michy London within one point of their north London netted in the 75th minute at Molineux to Austria forward fi red mid-table West their last 11 league games. Batshuayi restored Palace’s lead rivals if they beat Brighton today. give Wolves a third successive win. Ham ahead in the 16th minute with a It won’t be a season fondly when he punished sloppy mark- “Of course it is diffi cult to get some- Nuno Espirito Santo’s team are four clinical fi nish from ’s pass. remembered by Cardiff , with ing with a clinical close-range auricio Pochettino insisted thing positive. We made a massive ef- points clear of eighth placed Everton, Arnautovic struck again in the 69th their relegation coming after fi nish in the 40th minute. yesterday that nine-man fort,” Pochettino said. “We need to move who only have one game left, and six minute when he headed home after the tragic death of striker Emil- eff ectively Tottenham won’t let a “cruel” on. We have ahead two fi nals. It is in our ahead of ninth placed Leicester, who have Arthur Masuaka’s cross was palmed into iano Sala, who died in a plane confi rmed Cardiff ’s relegation in 1-0 defeat at Bournemouth hands. If it does not happen we will be two matches remaining. If Manchester the air by Southampton keeper Fraser crash en route to Wales before the 70th minute with a low drive Mruin their bid to fi nish in the top four and proud because nobody expected Totten- City win the FA Cup fi nal against Watford Forster. Hammers defender Ryan Fred- he had even played a game for that went in via the woodwork reach the Champions League fi nal, while ham to be in the position they are today.” later on May 18, the team which fi nishes ericks wrapped up the points in the 72nd the club. Warnock’s name was and Bobby Reid’s 90th minute Fulham’s 16-year-old Harvey Elliott be- Tottenham’s ninth defeat in their last seventh will go into the Europa League minute with his fi rst Premier League goal. chanted by Cardiff fans despite curler was no consolation for the come the Premier League’s youngest ever 15 games in all competitions means they qualifying rounds next season. the loss, but it remains to be seen beleaguered hosts. player in their 1-0 defeat Wolves. need to wait for today’s results to see In the 88th minute, Fulham provided PREMIER LEAGUE RESULTS Tottenham’s South Korea forward Son if they need to win their fi nal Premier an historic footnote as Elliott was sent on Bournemouth 1 (Ake 90) Tottenham 0; League game of the season at home to to become the Premier League’s young- Heung-min was sent off for a needless West Ham 3 (Arnautovic 16, 69, Fredericks push in the closing moments of the fi rst Everton on May 12. It was the worst pos- est ever player at 16 years and 30 days. 72) Southampton 0; Wolves 1 (Dendoncker half and Argentine defender Juan Foyth sible preparation for their bid to overturn English midfi elder Elliott, born in April 75) Fulham 0; Cardiff 2 (Kelly 31-og, Reid saw red for a studs-up lunge soon after a 1-0 defi cit in the Champions League 2003, surpassed the previous record set 90) Crystal Palace 3 (Zaha 28, Batshuayi the interval. Pochettino’s side looked semi-fi nal second leg at Ajax on Wednes- by former Fulham player Matthew Briggs, like they would hold on for a point as day. “We are fi ghting six teams. It’s im- aged just 16 years and 65 days in 2007. 40, Townsend 70) the match entered stoppage-time, but possible for all six to get the top four, London-born Elliott’s only previous Playing today: Arsenal v Brighton (1530 Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake end- whatever happens I will feel proud and appearance for Fulham this season came GMT); Chelsea v Watford (1300 GMT); Hud- ed third-placed Tottenham’s stubborn whatever happens in the semi-fi nal I will in a League Cup win at Millwall in Sep- dersfield v Manchester United (1300 GMT) resistance to delay their attempt to guar- be proud,” Pochettino said. tember. Marko Arnautovic ended his 11- Tomorrow: Manchester City v Leicester antee a place in the top four. In their fi rst season back in the top- game goal drought with a brace in West (1900 GMT) A win would have achieved that aim, fl ight, Wolves moved a step closer to seal- Ham’s 3-0 win against Southampton at but fourth-placed Chelsea will now go ing an impressive seventh place fi nish as the London Stadium. Played Friday: Everton 2 (Mee 17-og, Cardiff City’s Aron Gunnarsson gestures to fans after the Bluebirds above Spurs if they defeat Watford and Leander Dendoncker saw off relegated Arnautovic hadn’t scored for Manuel Coleman 20) Burnley 0 were relegated from the Premier League. (Reuters)

SERIE A LIGUE 1 Ronaldo stretches Torino’s 24-year wait Cavani fl uff s late penalty AFP Turin, Italy Juventus’ Cristiano Ronaldo heads the ball during the to compound PSG misery Serie A match against ristiano Ronaldo headed in a late Torino in Turin. (AFP) AFP equaliser to spoil Torino’s dream Paris of a fi rst win at city rivals Juventus in nearly a quarter of a century on FridayC night and frustrate their bid to move aris Saint-Germain’s into the Champions League places. dismal recent run in Sasa Lukic had fi red Torino ahead after 17 Ligue 1 continued yes- minutes in a match brought forward a day terday as Edinson Cav- to avoid clashing with yesterday’s 70th an- Pani missed a stoppage time pen- niversary of the air disaster that wiped out alty for the French champions the all-conquering ‘Grande Torino’ team of in a scrappy 1-1 home draw with the 1940s. But Ronaldo headed in for 1-1 af- Nice. The Uruguayan shot weak- ter 84 minutes to leave Torino in sixth place, ly at Nice stopper Walter Benitez two points off the Champions League berths nearly fi ve minutes after Ney- with three games left to play. Juventus have mar, who scored PSG’s leveller already sealed the Serie A title for the eighth from the spot 30 minutes earlier, season in a row, but Torino still have all to was judged via VAR to have been play for as they target a fi rst-ever qualifi ca- brought down by Dante. tion for elite European competition. PSG retained the league title “This draw burns, we could have scored a two weeks ago and are 17 points second goal and brought the win home,” said ahead of second-placed Lille Torino coach Walter Mazzarri. “The only Sampdoria’s Fabio Quagliarella, who leads today. Inter Milan, eight points behind Na- but they have now won just one time we let down our guard the phenom- the Serie A scoring charts. The Portuguese poli, will look to consolidate third position of their last six league games as enon that is Ronaldo punished us.” superstar brings his tally of career club goals and their Champions League berth at Udi- their season continues to disap- (From left) Nice’s Dante, referee Franck Scheinder, PSG’s Edinson Torino have not won at Juventus since to 601, edging ahead of his Argentina rival nese. Torino stay sixth, one point behind point in the aftermath of their Cavani and Nice’s goalkeeper Walter Benitez stand as Neymar (down) 1995 while their only win since then against Lionel Messi, who has 600. “We’re lucky to Roma, and two adrift of fourth-placed Ata- nightmare Champions League reacts after an injury during the French Ligue 1 match. (AFP) their city rivals was at home in April 2015. play with Cristiano and live in this age of two lanta. Although Juventus have nothing left defeat to Manchester United in Ronaldo — who had scored the only goal star players,” said Juventus captain Giorgio to play for they will have a role in who quali- March. They were beaten 3-2 of a not-full Parc des Princes to They were duly punished sec- with a penalty in the reverse fi xture in De- Chiellini. “They’re somewhat comparable to fi es for next seasons Champions League as at Montpellier midweek after level Ignatius Ganago’s stunning onds later by Neymar, who coolly cember — was partnered up front by teenage (Roger) Federer and (Rafael) Nadal. The are they play Roma and Atalanta in their next throwing away a two-goal lead to volleyed opener just after half- strode up to score his spot-kick striker Moise Kean. Kean threatened early both out of this world, one seems stronger two games. lose on penalties the French Cup time, but Thomas Tuchel’s side after Angel Di Maria was hacked along with Torino captain Andrea Belotti. one day and then the other replies.” fi nal last weekend, after which were lacklustre throughout and down by Patrick Burner. PSG But Serbian midfi elder Lukic broke through For Juventus it was a second consecu- ITALIAN SERIE A RESULTS star striker Kylian Mbappe was couldn’t grab the winner. pushed for a winner without tive stalemate after last weekend’s 1-1 draw following a Miralem Pjanic error to slot in Chievo 0 SPAL 4 (Felipe 8, 55, Floccari 47, hit with a three-match ban for a Patrick Vieira’s Nice, who are creating much, and they were his fi rst goal for Torino. Ronaldo came close against Inter Milan. “Clearly once you’ve rash tackle on Rennes’ Damien down in seventh and seven points handed a golden opportunity to Kurtic 81) to an equaliser soon after with his powerful won the league the foot comes off the gas Da Silva. Not even Neymar — away from the Europa League snatch an undeserved winner strike just wide with Salvatore Sirigu deny- a little bit and it becomes diffi cult to fi nd Played Friday: Juventus 1 (Ronaldo 84) who is awaiting sanctions after place, had a much simpler chance when referee Frank Schneider ing Blaise Matuidi. the motivation,” said coach Massimiliano Torino 1 (Lukic 17) hitting a Rennes fan in the after- to double their lead and pile the pointed to the spot, booking a But Juventus increased the pressure af- Allegri. “But compared to the San Siro we Playing today: Empoli v Fiorentina (1030), math of the cup defeat — bagging pain on PSG 12 minutes later distraught Dante in the process. ter the break with Ronaldo rising hightest started better and if we hadn’t conceded Lazio v Atalanta; Parma v Sampdoria, Sas- his fi rst league goal since January after Ganago’s strike, but Alan However Cavani, in his fi rst to latch onto a Leonardo Spinazzola cross that goal in the fi rst half it might have been a suolo v Frosinone (all 1300), Genoa v AS was enough to rouse the hosts Saint-Maximin could only watch start since February, wasn’t up to beat Sirigu and deny Torino a third con- diff erent game.” Roma (1600), Napoli v Cagliari (1830) from their slumber. in horror as his shot from the bar to the task and the hosts had to secutive victory. It was Ronaldo’s 21st league Juventus are nevertheless 19 points ahead The Brazilian struck from the after being served an open goal by make do with an underwhelming goal this season and moves him two behind of second-placed Napoli, who host Cagliari Tomorrow: AC Milan v Bologna (1830) spot on the hour mark in front the dynamic Youcef Atal. point. Gulf Times Sunday, May 5, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

BUNDESLIGA FOCUS Celtic seal 8th consecutive Dortmund loss leaves Scottish title AFP London

eltic remain in a league of their own in Scot- Bayern on brink of land as a 3-0 win at clinched an eighthC consecutive Premiership title yesterday. The Hoops are now just one victory away from a third consecutive domestic tre- ble of trophies should they de- seventh successive title feat Hearts in the Scottish Cup fi nal on May 25. However, that haul of sil- Club stalwarts Ribery and Robben return from injury to help Bayern to a 3-1 victory over Hanover verware belies a troubled cam- paign that saw manager Brendan AFP Rodgers walk out on the club to Berlin move to Leicester and a repeated failure to make progress in Eu- rope. Neil Lennon returned for ayern Munich are on the brink his second spell in charge when of a seventh successive Bun- Rodgers suddenly upped sticks desliga title after Roman in February and has steadied the Buerki’s disastrous goalkeep- ship with an unbeaten 11-game ingB error saw Borussia Dortmund throw run to extend Celtic’s eight- away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with point lead over Rangers to 12, Werder Bremen and slip four points be- although Steven Gerrard’s men hind the league leaders yesterday. have a game in hand. “I am not going to talk about Roman. Yet, despite the results, Celt- Whatever happens, he has had a fan- ic’s performances have not hit tastic season and has saved us a lot of the heights they often did under points in the past," Lucien Favre said. Rodgers in the past three months Buerki’s error and a goal from Claudio with Lennon admitting his side Pizarro sealed a perfect afternoon for gave him “heebee jeebees” in Bayern, after club stalwarts Franck Rib- closing out the title. ery and Arjen Robben earlier returned Lennon is yet to be handed from injury to help them to a 3-1 victory the job on a permanent basis and over bottom club Hanover. Dortmund, uncertainty surrounds not only who were nine points ahead of Bay- who will be in the dugout next ern in December, must now make up a season, but the futures of much four-point defi cit in the last two games of a bloated squad. “It’s been the of the season. Christian Pulisic opened toughest piece of management the scoring for Dortmund after just six I’ve had to do,” added Lennon. minutes with a brilliant solo goal, be- “It has been diffi cult coming in fore Paco Alcacer doubled the lead with to the club but the players helped a fi zzing free-kick. me and I like to think I’ve helped With Dortmund in full control on 70 them. It’s been really special.” minutes, Buerki allowed Bremen back There is little time for the into the game when he let Kevin Moe- Celtic board to deliberate when hwald’s tame shot through his legs, and it comes to naming a new man- former Bayern star Pizarro scored a ager or in the transfer market shock equaliser moments later. as the Scottish champions will In Munich, Robben and Ribery, both again have to trawl through four of whom are set to leave Bayern at the qualifying rounds to make it end of the season, came off the bench back to the riches and glamour to make their fi rst appearance together of the Champions League. in 2019. Ribery scored what may be his Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Weigl (left) and Werder Bremen’s Claudio Pizarro go acrobatic for the ball during the Bundesliga match yesterday. (Reuters) Failure at the third hurdle last ever goal at the Allianz Arena, while against AEK Athens last season Robben, who had not played since No- ball decision from VAR against Jerome vac. “Then out of the blue, something beat second-from-bottom Nuremberg ladbach 2 (Ginter 73, Drmic 84) Hoff en- curtailed Rodgers’s ambition for vember, said that his cameo appearance Boateng. Ribery secured the win with happened which today is a penalty but 2-0. Both Nuremberg and Hanover were heim 2 (Kaderabek 33, Amiri 79); Hertha the club to kick on and saw star was not the end of his Bayern journey. “I a defl ected shot six minutes from time should not have been, in my view." spared relegation for at least another Berlin 3 (Ibisevic 40, Duda 45+1, Kalou striker Moussa Dembele sold always said I didn’t want to come back The main-talking point was Hano- Elsewhere, Borussia Moenchenglad- week, however, as Hertha Berlin won 67) Stuttgart 1 (Gomez 71); Wolfsburg 2 to Lyon on the fi nal day of the just to wave to the fans and say good- ver's penalty, awarded with the help of bach and Hoff enheim both stumbled in 3-1 at home to Stuttgart, who remain in (Klaus 38, Tisserand 78) Nuremberg 0; transfer window. Lennon is the bye. There are two games left and the a VAR review after Linton Maina's shot the race for the top four, as they shared the relegation play-off place. Werder Bremen 2 (Moehwald 70, Pizarro hot favourite for the role given German Cup fi nal, so there is more to hit Jerome Boateng's arm and which the points in a 2-2 draw. Matthias Gin- Goals from Vedad Ibisevic, Ondrej 75) Borussia Dortmund 2 (Pulisic 6, his experience of the club and come,” he said. both coaches agreed should not have ter cancelled out Pavel Kaderabek’s Duda and Salomon Kalou sealed the win Alcacer 41) Scottish football, plus he was the Hanover kept Bayern at bay for nearly been given. “It was a phantom penalty, opener, before Nadiem Amiri restored for Hertha, despite a late consolation Playing today: Schalke v Augsburg last man to lead Celtic to the last half an hour before Robert Lewandowski as we have so often experienced in the the lead with a fi ne volley. header from Mario Gomez. (1130), Freiburg v Fortuna Duesseldorf 16 of the Champions League in headed the hosts ahead from close range last few weeks," Hanover's coach Tho- Josip Drmic saved Gladbach’s Cham- (1330), Bayer Leverkusen v Eintracht 2013. Now nine-in-a-row beck- and Leon Goretzka curled the second in mas Doll told reporters. pions League hopes with a late equal- ons again for Celtic and Lennon, BUNDESLIGA RESULTS Frankfurt (1600) off the post. The visitors hit back after “We should have been 4-0 up at half- iser. Wolfsburg also remain in the hunt despite his combustible nature, half-time with a Jonathas penalty, the time and that would have given us peace for a top four place after goals from Felix Bayern Munich 3 (Lewandowski 27, Played Friday: Mainz 3 (Onisiwo 43, is seen as the safest pair of hands result of a highly controversial hand- of mind," said Bayern coach Nico Ko- Klaus and Marcel Tisserand saw them Goretzka 40, Ribery 84) Hanover 1 Niakhate 67, Mateta 83) RB Leipzig 3 to get them there. (Jonathas 52-pen); Borussia Moencheng- (Klostermann 20, 32, Werner 49)

SPOTLIGHT Zidane downplays Bragging rights delayed as Espanyol beat Atletico AFP Real Madrid move Madrid for United's Pogba tletico Madrid missed the chance to ensure they fi nish AFP above Real Madrid for a second Madrid consecutive year yesterday af- terA slipping to a surprise 3-0 defeat by Espanyol. Atletico needed only a point to inedine Zidane has guarantee second place in La Liga, with played down speculation two games left to play, but Espanyol were linking Real Madrid with deserving winners at the RCDE Stadium a summer move for Man- thanks to Diego Godin’s own-goal and Zchester United midfi elder Paul two strikes from Borja Iglesias, the sec- Pogba. Zidane said in March he ond a penalty. knew Pogba personally and likes “Espanyol were deserving winners. him “a lot” before adding Madrid They were better and they had more could be his next club “when his chances,” said Atleti coach Diego Sime- experience in Manchester comes the players, they didn’t enjoy it one. The result means , already to an end”. either,” Zidane said. “Sometimes champions, can move 12 points clear at Pogba had also added to the nothing goes your way.” the top of the table by beating Celta Vigo doubts surrounding his future Madrid fans have vented their later last night. Real Madrid face Villar- by saying that “all players dream frustration towards a number real today but a third-place fi nish seems of playing for Real Madrid”. But of players, in particular Gareth inevitable for Zinedine Zidane’s side. ahead of his team’s La Liga game Bale, but Zidane said supporters To overtake their city rivals, Real will at home to Villarreal today, Zi- cannot assume anyone will leave. need to win all three of their remain- dane appeared to downplay the “The season is what it is but the ing games and hope Atletico lose both of chances of Pogba moving to the fans must think about next sea- their last two. Espanyol’s victory is un- Santiago Bernabeu. son. There will be changes but likely therefore to prevent Atleti fi nishing “I said Pogba was a good player many of these players will stay,” as Madrid’s top club in La Liga for a third but I could say the same about he said. “The fans will be the time in four years, fourth in six, but there other players,” Zidane said. “I same, and most of the players was a lack of spark that has undermined know him but nothing more. If too so we must stick together. We Simeone’s team too often this season. you ask me about Pogba, I say are going to have time to prepare Just as concerning have been the de- he is a very good player but he for next season. Until August 31 fensive errors, which Espanyol exploited plays for Manchester United. “At anything can happen, so it will be to the full. Godin slid the ball into his own Espanyol’s Borja Iglesias (right) celebrates with teammates Oscar Melendo (centre) and Roberto Rosales after scoring against the end of the season we will see a long summer.” net before Juanfran conceded a late pen- Atletico Madrid in the La Liga at the RCDE Stadium in Barcelona yesterday. (Reuters) which players come here, and Vinicius Junior has been one alty for a needless push. In between, Borja SPANISH LA LIGA RESULTS who leaves, but I did not say ‘We of the few positives to come from had nipped between Godin and Filipe joying a resurgence since joining on loan before the hour, Borja latching onto Oscar are going to sign Pogba,’ nothing Madrid’s season and he could re- Luis with ease. from Chelsea in January and he might Melendo’s pass before fi nishing impres- Levante 4 (Campana 14, Vezo 43, Jason 86, like that. I will not say anything turn against Villarreal after two Like at Real, changes are expected at have given Atletico an early lead against sively past Oblak. Oblak saved shots from Bardhi 90) Rayo Vallecano 1 (Garcia Rivera until the deals are done.” months out with a hamstring Atletico this summer but, unlike their Espanyol but was unable to fi nd the space and Borja but Espanyol fi - 71); Espanyol 3 (Godin 45+1-o.g., Iglesias 52, Madrid sit third in La Liga, 18 injury. “Vinicius is training much neighbours, not all of them are likely to from the angle. nally added a third after Juanfran knocked 89-pen) Atletico Madrid 0; Alaves 0 Real points behind champions Bar- better and ready to be in the be within their control. Lucas Hernandez Instead, Espanyol took the lead at over in the 89th minute. Borja Sociedad 1 (Willian José 24) celona and with little hope of squad,” Zidane said. has already agreed to join Bayern Munich, the end of the fi rst half and while Godin beat Oblak with the penalty. Playing today: catching Atletico Madrid in sec- “He is very good, he is an im- while uncertainty hangs over the futures turned it into his own net, it was Adria Earlier, Rayo Vallecano were thrashed Getafe v Girona (1100), ond. Zidane’s team have deliv- portant player for this team and of Godin, Filipe, Juanfran, Saul Niguez Pedrosa who made it. His driving run 4-1 by Levante to leave them on the brink Eibar v Real Betis (1300), Real Madrid v ered a series of underwhelming the future. He is 18 years old and and Antoine Griezmann. down the wing left Atletico’s defence of relegation from the top fl ight. Rayo are Villarreal (1515), Real Valladolid v Athletic performances, most recently in we have to be patient. But he de- Jan Oblak has signed a new contract scrambling and his fi red cross panicked now six points adrift of safety and can Bilbao (1730), Huesca v Valencia (1945) a 0-0 draw with Getafe and 1-0 serves to be here and next year, until 2023 but with a release clause in- Godin at the near post. only catch Celta Vigo, who need just a Played on Friday: Sevilla 0 Leganes 3 defeat to Rayo Vallecano. “I was we will see how we can make the cluded, reportedly set at 120mn euros. Atletico hardly troubled their oppo- point from their remaining three matches (En-Nesyri 8, Braithwaite 20, Rodriguez 82) very angry the other day, so were best of him.” Alvaro Morata will hope to stay after en- nents, who doubled their lead shortly to survive. Gulf Times 4 Sunday, May 5, 2019 CRICKET

IPL SPOTLIGHT Pant, Mishra shine as beat Rajasthan Hetmyer blitz keeps by fi ve wickets

IANS Kotla after New Delhi won the toss and decided to bat fi rst. Needing a victory to keep their chances of cement- elhi Capitals (DC) ing a top-two fi nish alive, the Sunrisers’ play-off ended their group Delhi bowlers did their job to stage campaign in the the core as they restricted RR 12th edition of the In- to 115/9 in their 20 overs. dianD Premier League (IPL) with ’s (50; 48 balls, a fi ve- win over Rajas- 4x4, 6x2) knock was the only than Royals (RR) at the Feroz silver lining in the Rajas- Shah Kotla yesterday. than innings as the youngster The win ensured that they helped the visitors amass 45 dream uncertain fi nish with 18 points from 14 runs in the last fi ve overs. games with 9 wins. Unless For Delhi, while ‘We’ve to sit and wait now, things are out of our control, which is a shame’ win their last fi nished with fi gures of 3/17, game against Kolkata Knight Ishant Sharma played the sen- IANS Riders today, Delhi will fi nish ior pacer’s role to perfection in Chennai in the top-two on the points ’s absence, fi n- table. ishing with fi gures of 3/38. It was only poetic justice Rajasthan’s joy ended soon oyal Challengers Banga- that (53*; 38b, after the toss as reinstated lore (RCB) ended their 4x2, 6x5) fi nished the game skipper failed with a six for DC after being to rise to the captain’s role (IPL) 2019 campaign pulled up for throwing away as he mistimed a fl ick to be onR a winning note, thanks to his wicket towards the end of a caught by off half-centuries by Shimron Het- few games this season. Ishant Sharma for 2. The score myer and Gurkeerat Singh Mann, With fi gures of 3/26, Ish So- read 11/1 in the second over. which helped the side register a dhi was the pick of the bowlers But Ishant wasn’t done yet four-wicket win over Sunrisers for the Royals. as he returned in the next over Hyderabad (SRH) and keep the Chasing 116 for victory, it to dismiss Orange Army’s dream of advanc- wasn’t a walk in the park for (14) as the opener failed to ing to the play-off s uncertain. the DC batsmen as the Ra- read a slower ball which dis- It was the crucial 144-run jasthan bowlers stuck to the turbed the timber. The score partnership for the fourth wicket task of picking up wickets at read 20/2 in the fourth over. between Hetmyer (75 off 47) and regular intervals. It started But this was just the beginning Gurkeerat (65 off 48) which set with Sodhi dismissing Shikhar of Rajasthan’s horror as Sanju the platform for a much-needed Dhawan (16) and Samson was next run out by victory for the hosts. Hetmyer’s (8) off successive deliveries in Prithvi Shaw for 5 as the score knock contained four bounda- the fourth over. read 26/3. ries and six hits into the stands Skipper and Ishant then came back to while Gurkeerat’s innings was Pant then tried to strike a dismiss for laced with eight fours and a six. partnership, but just when it 8. After that it was the Amit For entering the play-off s, looked like they would take Mishra show as he sent back Hyderabad will now have to de- DC home, sent Shreyas Gopal (12) and Stuart pend on the result of today’s back Iyer (15) to break the 33- Binny (0) off successive balls. contest between Kolkata Knight run stand with the scoreboard A hat-trick was on the Riders and Mumbai Indians as reading 61/3 in the 8th over. cards, but Trent Boult dropped both Kolkata and Hyderabad Coling Ingram too failed a sitter off K. Gowtham’s bat. have 12 points each. to provide the required sup- However, Mishra had his man “We’ve to sit and wait now, port to Pant as Sodhi had him caught by Ishant for 6 in his things are out of our con- caught by Ajinkya Rahane for a next over. With the scoreboard trol, which is a shame. Fingers 23-ball 12. reading 65/7 in the 12th over, it crossed, we can sneak through,” It was quite a struggle for was all about playing the full Hyderabad captain Kane Wil- the South Africa batsman quota of overs after that. liamson said. as RR spinners spun a web Chasing a 176-run target, the around him on a low and slow BRIEF SCORES hosts were off to a worst pos- Royal Challengers batsman plays a shot during the 2019 Indian Premier League match against Kotla wicket. Rajasthan Royals: 115/9 in 20 sible start as they lost opener at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore yesterday. (AFP) But Pant kept his calm and overs (Riyan Parag 50; Amit Parthiv Patel (0) in the very fi rst ensured that he held one end Mishra 3/17, Ishant Sharma over with just a run on board, back his team in the contest and misread by Saha and he ended up up as Delhi reached the target 3/38) lost to : courtesy . make the one-sided aff air look giving an easy catch to Umesh at Tahir is my inspiration, says MI’s Chahar with 23 balls to spare. 121/5 in 16.1 overs (Rishabh Things worsened for the home interesting before RCB’s lower- mid-on, leaving his side at 46/1. Earlier, it was Delhi Capitals Pant 53*; Ish Sodhi 3/26) by 5 side as Khaleel Ahmed packed order batsman Hyderabad then lost Gup- Mumbai Indians spinner Rahul face each other on the field. all the way at the Feroz Shah wickets. back RCB skipper (16 smashed Mohammad Nabi for till and in quick Chahar yesterday said that “Deepak bhaiya’s father has off 7) while Bhuvneshwar struck two consecutive boundaries in succession as Sundar accounted among the current bowlers he coached both of us. So he again in his second over to send the fi nal over to help his side for both, leaving the visitors looks at Imran Tahir for inspira- always keeps telling us on the back A.B. de Villers, reducing the cross the line with four balls reeling at 61/3 in 7.5 overs. Vi- tion. “When I was little I used phone that don’t hold back if hosts to 20/3 in just 2.3 overs. to spare. For Hyderabad, Kha- jay Shankar (27 off 18) and Wil- to watch a lot,” you face one another in the It seemed RCB would suff er leel was the pick of the bowlers liamson then repaired the dam- he said at a press conference middle. You are my students another collapse but the with fi gures of 3/34 while Bhuv- ages and added 45 runs to take prior to MI’s IPL match against so don’t spoil my name. So we story turned a diff erent way as neshwar scalped two for 24. Hyderabad past the three-digit . “Now I don’t really think about the Hetmyer and Gurkeerat not only Earlier, skipper Kane William- mark. With everything going watch Imran Tahir. He has a lot relationship when we face each denied the visitors from making son’s brisk unbeaten half-cen- well for the visitors, Sundar once of variations, regardless of the other,” he said. Rahul added any further inroads but also an- tury had propelled Hyderabad to again came with a breakthrough pitch and the conditions, he that it was Deepak, a medium chored their innings with some a fi ghting 175/7. and packed back Vijay in the 14th knows which ball to bowl.” pacer, who suggested that he sensible strokeplays. Despite a good start, Hydera- over as Hyderabad scorecard Chahar revealed that he calls should try . “I The duo slowly lifted RCB bad were at 147/7 in 19 overs before read 106/4. Hyderabad then lost up Tahir whenever he needs did not have the ability for fast touch the 50-run mark in 6.1 Williamson (70 off 43) clobbered Yusuf Pathan (3), Nabi (4) and help and the veteran South Af- bowling when I was a kid. So overs before guiding their side to Umesh for 28 runs in the fi nal six Rashid (1) in quick succession rican spinner off ers him advice. bhaiyya told me to start leg the three-digit mark in 11.5 overs balls to help his side reach a chal- with the addition of just 33 runs. “I have his contact number and spin,” he said. Mumbai Indians as most of the Hyderabad bowl- lenging total. For the home side, Williamson not only kept so whenever I call him with have fielded 10 debutants this ers looked helpless and strug- starred with the scoreboard ticking but also queries he always helps me season and Rahul’s teammate gled to break the partnership. the ball and picked up three wick- hammered Bangalore bowlers at out. I had gone to England with Jayant Yadav said that this was At one stage, it seemed both ets for 20 runs and regular intervals before his last the U-19 side to play the Test a reflection of the depth of the Hetmyer and Gurkeerat would got two wickets for 39 runs. Wil- over carnage took his side to a matches and wanted to know squad. “We have fielded 10 themselves guide their team liamson’s knock was laced with fi ve fi ghting total. more about the conditions debutants this year. That also home. However, with RCB just boundaries and four sixes. there. I called him up and he shows that we are equipped 12 runs away from victory off 15 Asked to bat, the visitors were BRIEF SCORES helped me out with it,” said tactically for every game and balls, Hyderabad leggie Rashid off to a fl ying start as openers RCB 178/6 in 19.2 overs (Shimron Chahar. every condition. Every place Khan dismissed the former, who Martin Guptill (30 off 23) and Hetmyer 75, Gurkeerat Singh Tahir’s Chennai Super Kings throws up diff erent conditions while trying to clear the long- Wriddhiman Saha (20 off 11) Mann 65; Khaleel Ahmed 3/37) teammate, Deepak Chahar, is and apart from that there is off boundary mistimed a shot to added 29 runs in the fi rst three beat SRH 175/7 (Kane William- Rahul’s cousin but the latter also fielding certain players on hand a catch to Vijay Shankar. overs. The developing partner- son 70 , Martin Guptill said that the relationship the basis of who we face in the Khaleel then sent back Gur- ship, however, didn’t last long 30; Washington Sundar 3/24) by doesn’t matter when the two opposition.” Delhi Capitals’ Rishabh Pant (right) and celebrate their keerat in the 19th over to bring as Saini’s slower was 4 wickets. victory over Rajasthan Royals in New Delhi yesterday. (AFP)

FOCUS Porterfi eld unhappy with Foakes stumping AFP “How long do you wait? We’ll be struck an unbeaten 61 to help see the London playing 15-hour games if you wait that visitors to a four-wicket win. long,” Porterfi eld said. But it was his stumping rather than “You can say it was great wicket- his batting that provoked plenty of de- reland captain William Porterfi eld keeping or you can say it’s a bit of a grey bate, with former county bowler turned has blasted England’s Ben Foakes area of how long he takes. international broadcaster Alan Wilkins for his delayed stumping of An- “The ball was pretty much dead. urging the International Cricket Coun- drew Balbirnie during England’s The batsman wasn’t going anywhere cil to take action. Ione-day-international win in Dublin, or overbalanced. It wasn’t like he had “If the @ICC wishes to maintain its saying matches could last “15 hours” if fallen over. ‘Spirit of Cricket’ as part of the mod- every wicket-keeper waited as long to “The keeper has waited for three or ern game, then the Ben Foakes ‘stump- try to eff ect a dismissal. four seconds, if we do that all day it’s ing’ in Malahide today should not be Balbirnie was on 29 at the Malahide going be a pretty long game.” endorsed as ‘within the Spirit of the ground on Friday when he missed an The move divided pundits, with Game’,” Wilkins said on . intended sweep off spinner Joe Denly. some saying that it went against the But there are many who feel the un- Foakes gathered a wide delivery spirit of cricket, but one-day interna- certainty surrounding what the ‘Spirit down the legside but, rather than whip tional debutant Foakes had a diff erent of Cricket’ means, as opposed to the the bails off immediately, he waited for view. precise nature of the sport’s rulebook Balbirnie to raise his back foot slightly “It was quite wide down leg, but I got or Laws, makes the concept more trou- - thereby making the batsman out of it back to the stumps,” he said. ble than it’s worth. his ground - before breaking the “When it’s a sweep you think they Former England fast-medium bowl- stumps. might fall over and I just saw he lifted er Mike Selvey, a long-serving cricket Third umpire Aleem Dar gave Bal- his foot and nicked them off .” journalist, responded to Wilkins by birnie out after studying television tweeting: “The ‘Spirit’ doesn’t exist replays, despite Porterfi eld convinced ‘SPIRIT OF CRICKET’ Wilko. the appeal should have been dismissed Ireland were eventually dismissed for “It’s an abstract concept that means as the delay meant the ball was “pretty 198 but then reduced England to 66 for only what an individual wants it to England’s Ben Foakes (right) celebrates with England’s after reaching his half-century during their ODI match much dead”. fi ve before man-of-the-match Foakes mean.” against Ireland at the Malahide Cricket Club in Dublin. (AFP) Gulf Times Sunday, May 5, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA MLB Giants escape 8-run hole, top Cincinnati Blazers squeeze Reds in 11 innings

Reuters 1974) and Jonny Gomes (June Washington 12, 2010). After Farmer’s homer pushed Cincinnati’s lead to 10-3, Wandy Peralta relieved Gray and van Longoria belted a ran into trouble. Duggar drove in past Nuggets in homer to lead off the 11th his third run of the night with a inning, and the visit- sacrifi ce fl y in the sixth inning, ing San Francisco Giants and Vogt added an RBI double overcameE an eight-run defi cit before Panik sent a 1-2 changeup to post a 12-11 victory over the from Peralta just inside the right Cincinnati Reds on Friday. fi eld foul pole. After striking out a pair of batters in a scoreless four-OT marathon 10th inning, Jared Hughes RESULTS (2-1) saw his 0-1 slider to Giants 12-11 Reds ‘That’s what my teammates want me to do.They want me to stay aggressive, they Longoria deposited just in- side the left fi eld foul pole Dodgers 4-3 Padres want me to make the right play – that’s what I’m going to keep doing the whole series’ to begin the 11th. Blue Jays 1-0 Rangers The blast capped San Cubs 4-0 Cardinals Francisco’s comeback from an 8-0 defi cit, highlighted Braves 7-2 Marlins by Stephen Vogt’s game- Athletics 14-1 Pirates tying homer off closer Rai- Brewers 3-1 Mets sel Iglesias with two outs in the ninth inning. D’backs 10-9 Rockies Joe Panik launched a Rays 7-0 Orioles two-run homer, and Ste- Yankees 6-3 Twins ven Duggar and Brandon Red Sox 6-1 White Sox Belt each had a two-run single for the Giants, who Phillies 4-2 Nationals overcame a pair of three- Indians 2-1 Mariners run homers by Derek Diet- Tigers 4-3 Royals rich to snap a seven-game losing streak in Cincinnati. Reyes Moronta (1-2) worked MUNCY LIFTS DODGERS TO around a leadoff walk and a wild 4-3 WIN OVER PADRES pitch to strike out three batters Max Muncy drove home Austin in the 10th inning. Will Smith Barnes with single off the glove fanned two in the 11th to secure of Padres fi rst baseman Eric his eighth save. Hosmer in the ninth inning Fri- Kyle Farmer had a solo homer, day night to give the visiting Los and Jesse Winker contributed Angeles Dodgers a 4-3 victory three hits and two runs for the over San Diego at Petco Park. Reds, who saw their bullpen im- The Dodgers rallied from a 3-0 plode to cost starter Sonny Gray defi cit that the Padres built when his fi rst win of the season. Manny Machado and Ian Kinsler Nick Senzel, Cincinnati’s homered off Clayton Kershaw. top prospect who was called up Barnes, who tied the game from Triple-A Louisville ear- with a home run leading off the lier on Friday, went 1-for-5 with seventh, doubled off Padres two walks and a run in his major closer Kirby Yates to open the league debut. He played centre ninth. With one out, Muncy hit fi eld. Cincinnati wasted little a sharp grounder down the fi rst time bolting out of the blocks base line that glanced off Hos- versus San Francisco after mus- mer’s glove into foul territory, tering just one run in its previous allowing Barnes to score from two games against the New York second. Scott Alexander (2-1) Mets. retired the only hitter he faced Rodney Hood (right) of the Portland Trail Blazers celebrates with a teammate after his game winning shot during the fourth overtime of game three of the Western Conference Dietrich deposited an 0-2 to get the win. Kenley Jansen semi-finals against the Denver Nuggets at Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. (Getty Images/AFP) changeup from Tyler Beede over picked up his 11th save with the wall in right fi eld to give the three strikeouts in the bottom of AFP Hood swished a 3-pointer to a layup with 1:03 left. Neither “I’m just trusting myself, onds left pulling Boston within Reds a 3-0 lead in the fi rst in- the ninth. Yates (0-1), who was Los Angeles give the Blazers a 138-136 edge team scored again, and it was I just have confi dence in my- 116-121. ning. He highlighted a fi ve-run the National League Reliever of with 17.8 seconds remaining. on to a third overtime. Millsap self,” said Milwaukee’s Most But Antetokounmpo, who third by sending a 1-0 fastball the Month for April after record- Jokic made 1 of 2 foul shots to made it 129-125 on a turna- Valuable Player candidate An- scored half his points at the free from Beede over the wall in right ing 14 saves in as many chances, J McCollum scored 41 make it 138-137 with 5.6 sec- round jumper with 32.2 seconds tetokounmpo. “That’s what my throw line, made two last foul for his seventh homer. took the loss. points as the Portland onds on the clock. remaining in the third extra ses- teammates want me to do. shots to close it out. The second blast made Di- San Diego’s Franmil Reyes sin- Trail Blazers pulled out Portland’s Seth Curry hit a sion. Lillard scored on a driving “They want me to stay ag- Antetokounmpo added eight etrich the third Reds’ player to gled with one out in the fi rst, and a 140-137 victory over pair at the line for a 140-137 lead layup to trim the diff erence to gressive, they want me to make assists and three blocked shots. hit multiple homers of at least Machado ended a seven-pitch theC visiting Denver Nuggets in with 2.8 ticks left. Denver’s in- 129-127 with 27.3 seconds left. the right play - that’s what I’m Hill connected on nine of three runs within the fi rst three duel with Kershaw with a 437- four overtimes Friday night in bounds pass was intercepted, After a Denver turnover, Lillard going to keep doing the whole 12 from the fi eld to score 21 off innings of game, joining Hall foot drive to the back row of the the longest NBA playoff game and the game was Portland’s. converted another driving lay- series.” the bench and Khris Middleton of Famer Joe Morgan (Aug 19, second deck in left. since 1953. At the end of regulation, Lil- up to square it at 129-129 with Boston led 56-55 at halftime, added 20 points for the Bucks. Damian Lillard added 28 lard scored on a driving layup to 8.4 ticks left. Murray’s despera- leading by as many as 12 before Kyrie Irving led Boston with points for the Trail Blazers, give the Blazers a 102-100 edge tion 3-point try missed as time the Bucks battled back to nar- 29 points. Jayson Tatum con- who took a 2-1 lead in the best- with 31.6 seconds left. Barton’s expired, and a fourth extra ses- row the gap. Milwaukee’s 40 tributed 20 points and 11 re- of-seven Western Conference layup tied it again at 102-102 sion loomed. third-quarter points were the bounds, and Jaylen Brown semi-fi nals. with 28.6 seconds remaining. most scored by either team in a fi nished with 18 points for the Jamal Murray scored 34 Portland’s Al-Farouq Aminu BUCKS POWER PAST single period in the series. Celtics, who will try to turn the points, and Nikola Jokic collect- missed a 3-point attempt, and CELTICS FOR 2-1 SERIES LEAD They connected on 11 of 18 tables when they host game four ed 33 points, 18 rebounds and 14 it was on to overtime. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored from the fi eld with Milwaukee on Monday. assists for the Nuggets in a game In the fi rst overtime, Millsap 32 points and grabbed 13 re- guard George Hill draining a “We defi nitely have a lot of that featured 24 lead changes. scored on a jump hook to pull bounds to lead Milwaukee to a pair of three-pointers in a 12-0 momentum,” Antetokounmpo Game 4 is scheduled for today the Nuggets ahead 109-107 123-116 victory in Boston that scoring run. said. “We’ve got to keep play- in Portland. with 47.1 seconds to play. After put the Bucks 2-1 up in their Boston scored 31 points in ing good basketball, we’ve got Will Barton split a pair at the misses at both ends, McCollum NBA playoff series against the the period, but Milwaukee held to keep defending.” line, giving Denver a 134-133 evened the score at 109-109 on Celtics. the Celtics without a fi eld goal lead with one minute left in the a fl oater with 8.7 ticks left. The top-seeded Bucks scored in the fi nal 3:44 of the quarter RESULTS fourth OT, but Rodney Hood’s After a timeout, Jokic missed 40 points in the third quarter – then opened the fourth on NBA playoff s (best-of-seven): baseline jumper pushed Port- a desperation 3-point attempt, and pulled away for a victory an 11-3 scoring run, stretch- Eastern Conference land in front 135-134 with 44.9 forcing a second extra session. that saw them regain home- ing their lead to as many as 17 Milwaukee 123 Boston 116 seconds to go. Paul Millsap’s In the second OT, McCol- court advantage in the best-of- points. (Milwaukee leads series 2-1) layup lifted the Nuggets into lum’s step-back jumper made seven Eastern Conference sec- The Celtics again cut the def- Western Conference San Francisco Giants third baseman Evan Longoria watches his go a 136-135 advantage with 27.6 it 118-116 Portland with 1:26 ond round series, in which they icit to single digits, Al Horford’s Portland 140 Denver 137 4OT ahead home run against the Cincinnati Reds during the 11th inning at seconds to play. remaining, but Barton tied it on were stung at home in game one. three-pointer with 10.6 sec- (Portland leads series 2-1) Great American Ball Park. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports

NHL Hurricanes sweep Isles to reach Eastern fi nals AFP on them,” he said. “You just have means a lot to me. It means a lot off ense as the visiting Dallas Los Angeles to create doubt in their minds. to our fans and our players,” said Stars claimed a 2-1 win over the We were able to carry it on.” Williams. St. Louis Blues on Friday and Carolina, who are unbeaten The 37-year-old Williams was are one victory away from ad- reg McKegg and Teuvo in fi ve home games in the posts- a teammate of Carolina’s rookie vancing to the Western Confer- Teravainen scored 66 eason, scored fi ve unanswered head coach Rod Brind’Amour ence fi nal. The Stars, who lead seconds apart in the goals after the Islanders had tak- back in 2003-04 season with the the best-of-seven series 3-2, second period as the en a 1-0 lead on a goal by Cana- Hurricanes. Sebastian Aho and will try to close out the series GCarolina Hurricanes beat the dian Mathew Barzal early in the Andrei Svechnikov also scored. Sunday afternoon in Dallas, an New York Islanders 5-2 to sweep fi rst period. Some are questioning Trotz’s impressive feat for a team that their NHL second round playoff Goaltending was a key feature decision to start Swede Lehner made the Stanley Cup playoff s series in four straight games. of the Eastern Conference series. in game four after he lost the fi rst with a wild-card berth. Finland’s Teravainen, with his Carolina veteran Curtis McEl- three games of the series. The Stars took advantage sixth goal of the playoff s, and hinney made just his second Lehner allowed three goals of a strong start when Spezza McKegg, with his fi rst, broke the start of this postseason Friday on just 11 shots before Trotz, opened the scoring 2:42 into the game open for the Hurricanes after Petr Mrazek was sidelined who coached the Washington clash. Right after Blues goalie early in the second period on Fri- with an undisclosed injury he Capitals to a Stanley Cup title Jordan Binnington made a big day at the PNC Arena in Raleigh, suff ered in Sunday’s game two. last season, yanked him and put save on Mattias Janmark, Tyler North Carolina. When McElhinney started in Greiss. Greiss fi nished with Seguin gained the puck at the McKegg’s tally led to Islanders game three at age 35 years and eight saves on Friday. Islanders end boards, then made a perfect coach Barry Trotz pulling start- 343 days, he became the oldest forward Brock Nelson capped pass to Spezza as he cruised into ing goaltender Robin Lehner goalie in NHL history to make the scoring with a goal late in the an opening, which the veteran and replacing him with Thomas his fi rst Stanley Cup playoff third period. quickly one-timed into the net Greiss, of Germany, in front of a start. He fi nished with 26 saves for his third goal of the playoff s. crowd of 19,400. Carolina for- in game four. Carolina also got SPEZZA, LINDELL LIFT STARS Lindell doubled the Dallas ward Justin Williams said they a goal from ageing forward Wil- PAST BLUES FOR SERIES LEAD lead with his fi rst-ever playoff needed to be aggressive at the liams who has tapped into the Ben Bishop stopped 38 shots goal 6:13 into the second period start of the second period. “We fountain of youth in these play- while Jason Spezza and Esa Lin- – a goal he’ll need to embellish in Carolina Hurricanes centre Greg McKegg celebrates his second period goal against the New York Islanders came out and imposed our will off s to score three goals. “This dell provided all of the necessary future tales. in game four of the second round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoff s. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Sunday, May 5, 2019 SPORT

FOCUS ATHLETICS India’s Chopra faces lengthy recovery Bach sympathises aft er elbow surgery

Reuters Last year, Chopra became Mumbai only the third man to win an athletics gold for India at the Commonwealth Games af- ommonwealth and ter sprinter Milkha Singh in with Semenya, Asian Games cham- 1958 and discus thrower Vikas pion javelin thrower Gowda in 2014. Neeraj Chopra has A throw of 86.47 metres was undergoneC surgery on the el- enough to take the title on the bow of his throwing arm and Gold Coast and he followed faces a race against time to that up with 87.43 metres at be fully fi t before the World the Diamond League leg in Championships in Doha at the Doha in May. respects CAS verdict end of September. At the Asiad in Jakarta he The 21-year-old Indian has threw even further, clearing a ‘The IOC respects CAS decisions... but from a human point of view, yes, I have sympathy for her’ not competed since picking season’s best distance of 88.06 up the injury to his right elbow metres for the title – placing late last year and was work- him sixth on the IAAF top list ing extensively on his core for 2018. strengthening and fl exibil- Hailing from the Northern ity with an eye on the World Indian state of Haryana, which Championships. is better known for producing The former world junior wrestlers and kabaddi play- champion underwent an ar- ers, Chopra is currently ranked throscopy procedure to re- fi fth in the IAAF world rank- move bone fragments which ings in javelin. were causing him discomfort He was targeting a throw of on Thursday and was released 92 metres and fi nish in the top from the Mumbai hospital on six at the World Champion- Friday. ships in Doha. “Undergone elbow surgery “Neeraj went through con- in Mumbai by Dr Dinshaw sultations with doctors in In- Pardiwala,” Chopra said in a dia and his scans were sent to social media post, accompa- multiple international experts nied by a picture of him lying as well, who all suggested on a hospital bed with his right that the elbow arthroscopy arm in an elbow brace. would be the best alternative,” “Will require some months said Manisha Malhotra, Head of rehabilitation before I can of Sports Excellence at JSW start back with throwing. Sports, the organisation which Hoping to return stronger. manages the athlete. “Every setback is a setup “After considering all op- for a comeback. God wants to tions and feedback, Neeraj de- bring you out better than you cided to stay in India and un- were before.” dergo the procedure.”

South Africa’s Caster Semenya celebrates after winning the women’s 800m during the IAAF Diamond IOC chief Thomas Bach. League competition in Doha on Friday. (AFP)

Reuters Sydney BRITISH RUNNER SHARP RECEIVED DEATH THREATS FOR SEMENYA COMMENTS British runner Lynsey Sharp said on under 5 nmol/L – double the normal lympic chief Thomas Friday she had received death threats female range of below 2 nmol/L – if Bach said yesterday for past comments about South Afri- they wish to continue competing in he had sympathy for can Caster Semenya’s “advantage” in races between 400 metres and a Caster Semenya but middle distance races. “I’ve had death mile. But the South African defiantly respectedO the Court of Arbitra- threats. I’ve had threats against my said “hell no” on Friday when tion for Sport (CAS)’s decision family and that’s not a position I want asked if she would take medication. that means the South African to be in,” the 28-year-old told the BBC Sharp, the 2012 European 800m athlete will have to reduce her after finishing ninth behind winner champion, said it has been a diff icult testosterone levels to compete. Semenya in Friday’s Diamond League time for her and other Semenya won gold in the 800 800m race in Doha. runners dealing with the situation. metres at the last two Olympics “It’s really unfortunate the way it’s “By no means am I over the moon but Wednesday’s CAS ruling played out.” The victory was the about this, it’s just been a long 11 means she will have to artifi cially 30th consecutive for double Olympic years for everyone,” said Sharp, who reduce her levels of the hormone champion Semenya at the distance once said Semenya was “light years to defend her titles in Tokyo next but the last before new International ahead” of her competitors. RUGBY year. Association of Athletics Federations “I’ve known Caster since 2008, it’s “First of all I must say I have (IAAF) rules aff ecting the South something I’ve been familiar with a lot of sympathy for Caster Se- African and other women with high over the past 11 years. menya over this decision,” the natural levels of testosterone come “No-one benefits from this situation – Folau’s hearing to International Olympic Commit- into eff ect. of course she doesn’t benefit, but it’s tee (IOC) president said at the The Court of Arbitration for Sport not me versus her, it’s not us versus Australian Olympic Committee (CAS) ruled on Wednesday the regula- them.” continue today (AOC) annual general meeting. tions were necessary for athletes with Testosterone is a hormone that “Having said this, the issue as diff erences in sexual development increases muscle mass, strength Reuters mitted to terminating Folau’s such is extremely complex. It has (DSDs) to ensure fair competition. and haemoglobin – which aff ects Sydney contract, which local media scientifi c impact, it has ethical In the future, Semenya and others endurance. Some competitors have reports say is worth A$4 mil- impact, it impacts on ‘fair play’ with DSD must take medication to said women with higher levels of the lion ($2.81 million). in competition so it’s extremely reduce their testosterone levels to hormone have an unfair advantage. srael Folau’s code of con- The 73-test fullback was delicate and it’s extremely diffi - duct hearing will continue served last month with a cult to do justice to all these (ele- for a second day today breach notice that said his ments). erations (IAAF), who control the muscle mass, strength and hae- “weak evidence” that they were ment. I have to rely on the ex- with no decision expected social media post had ‘disre- “What the IOC have been do- rules of competition in track and moglobin. Bach said an IOC necessary and that they should perts. Ibefore Monday at the earliest, spected’ people on the basis of ing is trying to assist the inter- fi eld at the Olympics, have im- working group would examine be scrapped. “This is why we “It is not only scientifi c, it is Rugby Australia said yesterday. their sexuality. national federations because it is posed the conditions on female the full CAS ruling once it was have this working group, where not only ethical, it is not only A three-member panel Folau, RA chief executive they who have to take the deci- athletes with diff erences in sex- available, including recommen- there are also medical experts,” sport, it is also highly emotional. convened yesterday to decide Raelene Castle and Wallabies sion because it is their rules. ual development (DSDs). dations from the panel of judges Bach added. I’m afraid for these experts it will whether Folau, a fundamen- coach Michael Cheika all gave “The IOC respects CAS de- They cover track events rang- on how the rules should be im- “They try, as we always try in be very diffi cult to fi nd a solution talist Christian, breached RA’s “oral evidence” on day one cisions, as we always do ... but ing from 400 metres to a mile plemented. these situations, to come to what that brings together all these ar- code of conduct with a post of the hearing, the governing from a human point of view, yes, and Semenya has already in- The World Medical Associa- scientists call a consensus. This guments.” on social media that said hell body said in a statement. I have sympathy for her.” dicated that she will not take tion (WMA) on Friday called on is what they are working on. I am Semenya’s legal team have awaits ‘drunks, homosexuals, The off ending post, which The governing International medication to reduce her levels its members not to implement not a medical expert so I cannot said they are considering ap- adulterers’ and others. RA and has attracted 53,000 ‘likes’ and Association of Athletics Fed- of testosterone, which increases the regulations, saying there was comment on the (WMA) state- pealing the CAS ruling. Folau’s Super Rugby team, the 47,700 comments, remains on New South Wales Waratahs, Folau’s Instagram page (www. have already publicly com- instagram.com/izzyfolau/). COMMENT Henri Foures, former France lock, dies at 93 Bach: Alternative organisation for boxing ‘not rocket science’ Former France and Toulouse the 1940s and 1950s and ap- second row forward Henri peared four times for France Reuters quiry into fi nancial and govern- “This depends on the results in the 14 months before the To- about the imbalance between Foures has died aged 93, Ber- in 1951. Sydney ance issues at AIBA, which has of an ongoing inquiry we have kyo Games open. the three women’s boxing events nard Laporte, the president of “The Toulouse family and been in turmoil for years. into AIBA which is looking at Bach, though, was sanguine at the last two Olympics and the the French Rugby Federation, everyone who loves rugby “We want to have boxing as governance, fi nance, judging about the prospect. 10 gold medals up for grabs for said yesterday. has today lost one of its most lympic chief Thomas an Olympic sport and we want and refereeing -- it is very, very “We want to do this because the men. “A great gentleman of rugby exemplary representatives,” Bach believes an al- to have a boxing competition at serious.” boxing is important Olympic “At a time when we still on has left us,” Laporte tweeted. current Toulouse president ternative organisation the Tokyo Olympics in 2020,” Bach expected the IOC inquiry sport, it is a universal sport, so speaking terms with AIBA, we Foures joined the French Didier Lacroix said. could run the boxing International Olympic Commit- to make its recommendations at we want to have boxing on the had more or less agreed that we resistance during the He was captain, coach and competitionO at next year’s Tokyo tee President (IOC) Bach told the an executive board meeting in programme,” he said. “If the cas- will have gender equality in the Second World War at 17. He director of Toulouse before Olympics if recognition is with- Australian Olympic Committee Lausanne on May 22. es arises we would have to make Olympic competition in Tokyo,” was awarded the Legion of becoming chairman of the drawn from the sport’s amateur annual general meeting on Sat- Boxing Australia director Jo- an eff ort to have it and to have he said. Honour in 2005 for his service organisation that owns the governing body AIBA. urday. han Linde, who quizzed Bach the qualifi cation process. “You can be assured that with the Free French forces in Ernest-Wallon stadium where The participation of boxers at “The question we are con- on the issue, told Reuters he “Organising a sports event is whoever organises the Olympic the liberation of the country in Toulouse play. He was also next year’s Summer Games was fronted with is, who will organ- thought it would be extremely not rocket science so I guess we competition, we will insist on 1944 and 1945. chairman of the selectors of cast into doubt last November ise it? Will it be AIBA or will we diffi cult to organise the compe- will be able to manage it.” this principle of gender equality He played for Toulouse in the French national team. after the IOC launched an in- have to fi nd a diff erent way? tition, especially qualifi cation, Bach was also questioned for boxing.” Gulf Times Sunday, May 5, 2019 7 SPORT

GOLF SPOTLIGHT Dufner surges up Quail Hollow France’s Hebert leaderboard with jumps to lead second round 63 with stunning 64 ‘The front nine was a little up-and-down and, in the past, this might have made me nervous, but I remained focused and got the rhythm on the back nine’

Jason Dufner in action in the Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hol- low Club in Charlotte, North Carolina.

AFP from a bogey at the fourth with Washington an eagle at the par-fi ve seventh. He birdied the eighth, then picked up four more birdies ason Dufner fi red seven coming in. birdies and an eagle in Dufner, who has missed eight an eight-under par 63 cuts in 15 prior tournaments on Friday to put himself since the current season opened inJ unfamiliar territory atop the last October, has made whole- Wells Fargo Championship lea- sale changes in a bid to stop the derboard. rot. “It has been a while since I’ve He’s on his fourth caddie of been in the lead or competing the year and parted with swing for a tournament,” said Dufner, a coach Chuck Cook. former top-10 player and winner “I think I’m on my fourth or of the 2013 PGA Championship fi fth putter this year, I’m on my who has slumped to 230th in the fourth or fi fth driver, my fourth world rankings. or fi fth golf ball, fourth or fi fth “But I know what that feels lob wedge,” Dufner said. “I’m like. I’m just going with it, you trying to fi nd stuff that’s going know?” to work.” Dufner, 42, set an early tar- He admits that he feels a sense get in the second round at Quail of urgency. Hollow in Charlotte, North “My window’s pretty short on Carolina, building an 11-un- my career,” he said. “I’ve prob- der total of 131 that put him one ably got three or four more really stroke in front of Joel Dahmen good years left in me, so I’m not and Max Homa. trying to be mediocre or aver- Dahmen, who shared the age.” overnight lead with Northern But he also knows that one Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, carded great round is just a stepping his second straight 66 while stone. Homa had eight birdies in his 63 “I’m just happy to be playing to reach 10-under 132. the weekend,” Dufner said. McIlroy, meanwhile, carded McIlroy had certainly looked Benjamin Hebert a 70 for 136 and shared fourth more likely to be leading the of France lines place with American Patrick charge into the weekend, but he up a putt in Reed, who carded a 69. closed out his second round with Shenzhen, China. It was a further stroke back to a double-bogey and a bogey at England’s Justin Rose, Ireland’s the eighth and ninth holes. Seamus Power, Australian Jason A day after getting the most Day and American Pat Perez. out of his round, McIlroy said, Agencies old is calm going into the fi nal titles. “It’s an early start so let’s “I didn’t putt as well as the a good chance of making bird- Dufner’s round matched the “it was the complete opposite”. Shenzhen round just see what happens.” fi rst two days but overall it was a ies in the last three holes and I lowest of his career. The last Although he hit 10 of 14 fair- “Yes, this is a fi rst time for me While Hebert dreams of his very good round,” said Campillo. was happy I managed to birdie time he posted a 63 it was in the ways — four more than he did on but it’s what I work for,” said He- maiden European Tour title, “I wish I could make more putts 16. The crowds were great and 2013 PGA Championship, where Thursday — McIlroy needed 31 enjamin Hebert of bert, who rolled in seven birdies for 38-year-old Korhonen the but it was good as I have a chance I’m very happy to see so many of he went on to win his lone major putts. France is one step clos- and an eagle in a round that sim- chance of winning a second also tomorrow. It was exciting for them out here this week.” title to date. “You know, I turned a 66 into er to winning his fi rst ply exploded after a quiet, level- remains within reach after fi ring the crowd as they brought the With Wu just four shots off He birdied two of his fi rst a 70,” he said. “Golf, it’s a funny European Tour title par front nine. eight birdies in a round of 65 (-7) 18th tee box up, which provided the lead, a fi fth Chinese win re- three holes and bounced back game and these things happen.” afterB a stunning third round 64 “I’m very happy with the way that saw him take the lead prior you with chances for eagle or mains a possibility, while other (-8) saw him take a three-shot I focused on my game as I ‘ve to Hebert’s charge. birdie. I hope to use my experi- home favourites continue to lead into the fi nal round of the been working on this aspect for “It was good today – I hit the ence from last week to win but if impress. The 2016 champion South Korea’s Ryu takes one-shot LPGA lead RMB 20 million 25th Volvo Chi- two years. The front nine was a ball better and made the birdie Benjamin plays like he did today, and World No. 39 Li Haotong na Open at Genzon Golf Club in little up-and-down and, in the chances happen,” said the Finn. then it’s tough.” shares eighth place seven shots San Francisco: South Korea’s of seven-under par 137 at Lake Shenzhen. past, this might have made me “I didn’t realise I had a chance Record crowds have been off the lead on -10, while Jin Ryu So-yeon fired a two-under Merced in Daly City, California. A remarkable back nine of 28 nervous but I remained focused to be in the lead until I saw the looking for a home victory this Cheng (-9), 17-year-old Volvo par 70 on Friday to take a one- “I just grinded and grinded and saw the Frenchman storm to the and got the rhythm on the back leaderboard on the last. I was week and they were out in force Amateur Champion Liang Enqi shot lead over compatriot Kim grinded. I only made one birdie top of the leaderboard on 17-un- nine. It’s incredible but that’s patient – I have been all week following Wu. But it was a stut- (-8), Liang Wenchong (-6) and Sei-young and American Ryann and one bogey on the back der-par to lead from Finland’s golf.” – and I’ll try to keep that up to- tering day for the 2015 Volvo 14-year-old Shenzhen school- O’Toole in the LPGA Mediheal nine. I actually didn’t really have Mikko Korhonen and Spaniard From four shots back at the morrow. It might be a wet day so China Open champion as a boy Kuang Yang (-6) are all un- Championship. many birdie chances.” Jorge Campillo on 14-under start of play to three shots ahead patience will be the key again.” four-shot lead was quickly lost derlining the strength of golf in Ryu, who shared the first- She said the changeable winds with overnight leader Wu Ashun with 18 holes remaining, it was Campillo’s ambitions of following four consecutive bo- China. round lead with South Korea’s made things diff icult, making it of China one shot further back a powerful performance from back-to-back Tour wins follow- geys on the back nine in a disap- Due to the possibility of se- Ji Eun-hee and Anne van Dam “tough to make a decision”. in fourth place on 13-under. Hebert who refuses to get ahead ing last week’s victory in Mo- pointing round of level par 72. vere weather, the fi nal day’s play of the Netherlands, chipped in “It felt like the wind was really Hebert’s blistering back nine of himself going into the fi nal rocco are also very much alive “I had a very good start but in the 25th Volvo China Open for birdie at the par-three 12th, strong into (a shot), and then included three birdies and an round of China’s National Open after a third round 68 (-4). The got into trouble on the back- will begin at 7.20am today (May but she bogeyed the 16th as all of a sudden it stopped,” she eagle on the last four holes to Championship. Spaniard has made fewer bogeys nine,” said the 33-year-old. “I 5) with players playing in three- she toiled through a “grinding” said. give himself the fi rst 54-hole “I don’t know what will hap- than anyone else in the fi eld in hit some really bad tee shots, ball groups and from both the back nine. “But I shot two-under par — lead of his career on the Euro- pen tomorrow and I don’t want Shenzhen and needs another making it tough for myself to fi rst and 10th tees. The last tee “It was just a grinding day,” said never complain with two-under pean Tour. Yet despite being in to make any sort of plan,” said clean round if he is to overhaul save par. When I fi nished play- time for the leading group will Ryu, who had a 36-hole total par.” unknown territory, the 32-year- the winner of six Challenge Tour Hebert. ing the 15th, I told myself I had be 9.21am on hole one.

TENNIS Federer taking ‘baby steps’ on clay return AFP and 2011, losing on every occasion to this clay court season, I can tell you Paris Nadal. that — I don’t even remember how to However, with 11-time French Open slide anymore,” said Federer. winner Nadal in something of a clay- “You know, I’m taking baby steps at oger Federer returns to clay court slump, having been deposed as this point. To be honest, I didn’t play court tennis for the fi rst time Barcelona and Monte Carlo champion one point — not one shot on clay last in three years at Madrid next in recent weeks, Federer saw a glimmer year. Two years ago I played two days. week, admitting it feels like a of hope. “Three years ago I played not feeling journeyR into “no-man’s land”. That shaft of light brightened when great in Monaco and Rome and all that. The 37-year-old last tested his abil- world number one Novak Djokovic ex- So it’s been so little that I really don’t ity on European dirt at the Rome Mas- ited Monte Carlo in the quarter-fi nals. know what to expect.” ters in 2016, before opting to concen- “Roger is still very hungry,” Federer’s Despite his caution, his longtime ri- trate on the world’s hard surfaces and coach Ivan Ljubicic told Sky Sports vals are wary of under-estimating the grass courts which have yielded the Italia. 20-time Grand Slam champion next majority of his 101 titles. “And he has got used to playing on week. But with his career in its twilight, the clay again pretty quickly.” “Everything is possible for Roger,” Swiss has decided to re-enter a realm Federer’s last clay title was in Istan- said world number seven Kei Nishikori of tennis for so long dominated by rival bul in 2015, the same year which saw who at least can boast winning his only Rafael Nadal — and Madrid seems the his last Roland Garros appearance end clay court meeting with Federer — at logical venue. with a quarter-fi nal exit at the hands of Madrid in 2013. Federer has won two of his 11 clay close friend Stan Wawrinka. “Winning Roland Garros might be titles in the Spanish capital where the Rome in 2016 witnessed the Swiss tougher for him than winning the Aus- high altitude helps him negate the tra- star’s most recent competitive outing tralian Open or Wimbledon, but I’m ditionally pedestrian pace of the dusty on clay, a straight sets loss to Dominic sure he can do anything if he tries 100 surface. Thiem in the third round seemingly per cent. “I’m very excited. It’s a good chal- convincing him that his dirt court ca- “I’m sure Roger can do very well on lenge, a good test. Confi dence, I don’t start from scratch,” said Federer after His long-term aim this spring is Ro- in 2009 and where he has been a four- reer was done. clay. He’s still my idol, he’s the best know, it’s in no-man’s land. I have to winning his most recent title in Miami. land Garros where he was champion time runner-up in 2006, 2007, 2008 “I’m not very confi dent going into player in history.”

Sunday, May 5, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

ATHLETICS ‘The level is little crazy now’: Crouser on shot put’s depth On 20 April, Crouser unleashed a 22.74m bomb in Long Beach, California, the farthest throw in the world since 1990

BY IAAF up and during the fi rst two rounds. But after that I just felt like it was time for bed.” he men’s shot put is riding an That said, his fi rst trip to Doha was unprecedented wave at the a valuable learning experience, well- moment, with Ryan Crouser, timed just fi ve months before he’ll the 2016 Olympic champion, be making a similar trip for the IAAF Tsitting at its crest. On 20 April, Crouser World Athletics Championships Doha unleashed a 22.74m bomb in Long 2019. “This is the farthest I’ve ever Beach, California, the farthest throw been travel-wise,” the native of Port- in the world since 1990. It elevated land, Oregon, continued. him to No 6 on the all-time list dur- “I’m pretty good about going to Eu- ing a time when those lists seem ripe rope now, but this is another six hours. for continual revision. “The level in the My body is reacting a little diff erently. men’s shot right now is unbelievable so So it was a learning experience and good anytime you can win the men’s shot is going forward to come out here and get a great accomplishment,” Crouser said. some confi dence and good throws in the So is treading in 22.70m-plus terri- circle that’s going to the have the World tory, where few have travelled before. Championships in October.” In Long Beach, he did it twice, fi rst While local organisers still have throwing 22.73m before improving it by some fi ne tuning to do over those fi ve a centimetre a round later. months, Crouser has already given his “I’d been throwing pretty well in seal of approval on Khalifa Stadium. training and I just wanted to go out “It’s an awesome venue,” he said. “It there and get a good mark,” he said of is insanely loud out there on that fi eld. his world leading eff ort. “I was a little And we were maybe at like a third ca- bit surprised by the distance - I wanted pacity - maybe. So I cannot imagine to be over 22.20 and guessed I could what it’s going to be like at the World throw 22.50. So it was a little better Championships because my ears are than I expected. It is early so it’s a good ringing now.” sign going forward.” That competition promises to be an- Shot putters usually know when other proverbial barn-burner. Twenty- they’re on. Crouser did, but then again, eight men have thrown 22 metres or he didn’t. “I knew right away - the better in the shot put. Seven of those 22.73 I executed really well technically. were in Doha, and eight will be at the I knew it was a good one as soon as I let Prefontaine Classic in late June. it go. But the 22.74, you could see by “It’s just a crazy level right now in the my reaction that I was throwing it way shot,” Crouser said. “For the longest harder and I thought it was going to be time 21 metres was competitive. And 22.50 and I wasn’t nearly as happy with around 2016 you started to see a couple it. So, with good technique I got 22.73 22 metre throws from Joe (Kovacs), and and with not so good technique and me and Tom (Walsh), and that’s kind smashing it I got to 22.74. So, I guess I of all three sides of the spectrum: Joe just need to smash it more.” is strong, Tom is shorter and little bit On Friday night in Doha, Crouser lighter, and I’m on the taller side and Ryan Crouser of the US en route to winning the prevailed at the fi rst mammoth shot put lighter side. You have kind of a triangle men’s shot put at the Diamond League at the Khalifa showdown of the season, reaching 22.13 and everyone on the spectrum is throw- International Stadium in Doha on Friday. (AFP) in the second round to defeat world ing far. And people began realizing you champion and 2018 Diamond Trophy could throw 22 now with diff erent body winner Tom Walsh, who threw 22.06m. types and diff erent techniques. Given the circumstances, Crouser “We have eight guys entered in Pre- was pleased. “It felt ok, and I’m happy fontaine who have thrown 22 and very in that 22 metres is not an impossible for them.” 22 and get second and third and fourth else was allowed to throw farther than with the win. I just personally felt a lit- similar numbers here in Doha. And throw and can fi nd a way that fi ts their With progress comes a downside. even. So it’s been a little bit crazy. We that. Now, If you’re a little bit off at 22, tle fl at. I really felt the 20 hours of travel most of those guys have thrown 22 since body type and their type of athleticism “It’s been cool but also a little frus- used to have running joke that through at some of the top meets you might not to get here. I felt pretty decent warming 2016. So they’ve kind of just bought or personal strengths and make it work trating at times when you can throw 2016 that if anyone threw 22, no one even get top three.”

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT QAF chief praises outstanding All set for Ramadan Sports Festival spire Zone Foundation (AZF) has organisation of Diamond League announced the completion of the registration phase as it gets ready QNA ganised in Doha will be the best to host more than 800 male and in the world in all respects. “The femaleA sports enthusiasts at the Ramadan Doha Doha round of the Diamond Sports Festival (RSF2019) scheduled to take League is always the focus of the place from May 8 and is scheduled to last atar Athletics Federa- world’s attention because it is the until May 17. tion (QAF) President opening meet and all the top ath- Across 10 days, AZF will host a raft of Dr Thani Abdulrah- letes are keen to participate in it,” events and tournaments and the organises man al-Kuwari ex- he said putting the fi nishing touches to the rules pressedQ satisfaction with the The QAF President also and regulations for the football, volleyball outstanding organisational level stressed that the Diamond and basketball tournaments. of the IAAF Diamond League League is also one of the stages On May 8, Ramadan Sports Festival will that was held for the fi rst time of preparation for the big event commence with the men’s football and at the Khalifa International Sta- – the World championship in volleyball tournaments, in addition to the dium, which will host this year’s Doha at the Khalifa International women’s handball competition. On May World Championships. Stadium – which confi rms that 9, the junior hockey tournaments for boys AZF will organise table-tennis activities for persons with disabilities on May 12. Al-Kuwari said he was very Qatar is ready to host athletics’ and girls will kick off . The men’s basketball pleased with IAAF offi cials praise marquee event, which will be tournament is scheduled to commence on This activity works on enhancing movement led by Aspire Academy Graduates and Qatar of the event, adding that Qatar held in the Middle East for the May 13 and women’s basketball tournament and strengthening muscles. national team football players, Almoez Ali ensures that any tournament or- fi rst time. on May 14. The festival will also witness one-day ac- and Abdelkarim Hassan, member of Qatar’s As for the individual sessions, Aspire tivities, such as the Junior fi tness challenge, athletics national team, Mariam Farid, Qa- Dome will open its doors to walking enthu- which is scheduled to take place on the 9th tar’s national team volleyball player, Mu- BOTTOMLINE siasts who will take part in a new walking of May for the boys, as for the girls it will barak Dahi, Qatar’s national team squash experience led by Aspire Zone trainers. The take place on May 16. In addition, AZF will player, Abdullah al-Tamimi, Qatari hand- walking sessions will be held daily from May also organise table-tennis activities for per- ball player, Abdulla al-Karbi, Qatar national 8-17. The fi rst session will kick off at 3:15pm, sons with disabilities on May 12. football team’s second goalkeeper, Hussein Qatar shooters to take part in the second one will be at 4:15pm. Each ses- Aspetar will lead a healthy Ramadan cam- Yasser and the sports celebrity, Mohamed sion will last for 45 minutes. paign to encourage members of the commu- Saadoun al-Kuwari. This year, the Ramadan Wall climbing comes back this year for nity to sustain their physical activity level Sports Festival will be sponsored by Saleh ISSF World Cup in South Korea those aged four and up and will take place during the fasting month. Al Hamad Al Mana Co, Aseel Water and Es- under the supervision of experts in the fi eld. The ‘Healthy Ramadan’ campaign will be Qalar Sports. QNA Doha TENNIS ROUND-UP atar shooting team is preparing to partici- pate in the upcoming Sakkari beats Konta to lift Rabat title ISSF Shooting World CupQ Series, which will take place reek Maria Sakkari rallied from Konta’s French Open preparations as her ago, Garin won his fi rst ATP Tour title in May 7 to 18 in Changwon city of a set and a break down to beat four victories this week are the fi rst time Houston last month. The 22-year-old Chil- South Korea. British number one Johanna Konta she has claimed more than two WTA main ean will face Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut The team delegation left Doha 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 and lift her fi rst WTA draw wins in a row on clay in her career. or Italy’s Matteo Berrettini in today’s fi nal. on Friday to Changwon to hold Gtitle at the Rabat Grand Prix in Morocco The winner of the second semi-fi nal will a short training camp ahead of yesterday. Konta, playing in her fi rst WTA CHILEAN TALENT GARIN SPRINGS be forced to play back-to-back games today the prestigious world shoot- fi nal since June last year, surged ahead to SECOND SURPRISE IN MUNICH after Bautista Agut and Berrettini’s meeting ing event. The shooting team is claim the opening set before the unforced Chile’s Cristian Garin sprung a second was postponed due to the rain. presented by London Olympic errors crept into her game. The world surprise in two days at the Munich Open bronze medallist Nasser al-Atti- number 47 was leading 3-2 in the second set yesterday, beating third seed Marco Cecchi- SWISS QUALIFIER TEICHMANN WINS yah, Abdulaziz al-Attiyah, Rash- before Sakkari drew level at 4-4. nato 6-2, 6-4 to reach the fi nal of the clay MAIDEN WTA TITLE IN PRAGUE id al-Ezbah, Saieed Abo Shareb, Sixth seed Sakkari reeled off the next two court ATP tournament. Swiss qualifi er Jil Teichmann outlasted Reem al-Sharshani and Nassder games to force a decider before claiming the Garin, ranked 47 in the world, beat world home favourite Karolina Muchova 7-6(5), al-Homaidi. victory with a forehand winner, guarantee- number three and two-time Munich cham- 3-6, 6-4 in just under three to clinch her The two week championship ing a surge into the WTA’s top 50. pion Alexander Zverev in the quarter-fi nals fi rst WTA title at the Prague Open. In a will bring together more than The 23-year-old fell on her back on the on Friday before continuing his fi ne form match between two fi rst-time WTA fi nal- 300 shooters representing 58 na- red clay and went on to kiss the surface in against Cecchinato in a semi-fi nal which ists, Teichmann needed six set points to win tions and will compete in Trap London Olympic bronze medallist and ace rally driver Nasser celebration after being congratulated at the was repeatedly interrupted by rain. the opening set, before recovering from a and Skeet. al-Attiyah will take part in ISSF World Cup in South Korea. net by Konta. It was also a positive week for Ranked outside the top 200 just a year break down twice in the decider.