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WALES VS PORTUGAL/ 10PM out to infl ict more semi-fi nal woe on Portugal This will be Portugal’s fourth semi-final in the last five editions of the Euro competition stretching back to 2000, but for all their success in reaching the latter stages of the tournament, there has been little glory along the way

Agencies

t will be virgin territory for Wales when they face Portugal in the Euro 2016 semi-fi nals, yet their opponents could be forgiven a Isense of deja vu as they step on to the pitch in Lyon tonight. This will be Portugal’s fourth semi- fi nal in the last fi ve editions of the competition stretching back to 2000, but for all their success in reaching the latter stages of the tournament, there has been little glory along the way. Only once have they overcome the last-four hurdle and then they were beaten in the fi nal by Greece as hosts at Euro 2004. If you include their defeat in the semi-fi nals of the 2006 World Cup and a loss at the Euros in 1984, they are becoming all too familiar with the pit- falls of this stage of major tournaments. Portugal’s conquerors in their recent last-four clashes have included football powerhouses , at Euro 2000 and the World Cup in 2006, and Spain at Euro 2012. Should they lose to Wales, playing their fi rst major tournament in 58 years and their fi rst ever semi-fi nal, it would be a devastating blow. Yet, Wales are arguably the form team coming into the match. Chris Coleman’s side have revelled in their underdog status to win their group, which also included England, Russia and Slovakia, ease out British rivals Northern Ireland in the last 16 and sweep past heavy fa- vourites Belgium in the quarters. Portugal are yet to win a match at the tournament inside 90 minutes, having drawn all three group games, beaten Croatia in extra-time and squeezed past Poland on penalties. Things are yet to click for Portugal, and by extension for captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who has at times looked exasperated by his team- mates’ attacking shortcomings. Yet, Portugal are unbeaten in 12 The spectre of Real competitive internationals since Fern- Madrid teammates ando Santos took over as coach at the Cristiano Ronaldo start of the Euro 2016 qualifying cam- and (left), paign. With Ronaldo’s Real Madrid the world’s two most teammate Pepe marshalling an in- creasingly assured defence, they will expensive players, be tough to break down. going head-to-head Especially for a Wales side deprived adds extra spice to of one of their most talented creative an already dazzling infl uences in midfi elder , encounter in Lyon who will be suspended after picking tonight. (AFP) up a booking in the win over Belgium. While Gareth Bale has been Wales’s at- tacking talisman, scoring three times in a semi-fi nal,” insisted Bale yesterday Austria, Croatia and Poland. in their last fi ve Euros. “We know what things with our national team. It is as many games at the Euro as possible. to lift them out of their group, Ramsey in a bid to defuse the billing of he and However, Portugal midfi elder Andre tournament they have had. We have great to be a part of.” Bale praised underdogs Iceland for their has been arguably their most infl uen- Ronaldo’s all-star showdown. “He’s a Gomes defended his captain’s displays. watched all their games on TV. They Should Bale reach the fi nal, he could “amazing journey” to the quarter-fi - tial player, scoring one and producing fantastic player, everyone knows what “He has worked a lot for the group are a dangerous team. They are ranked fi nd himself facing Germany midfi eld- nals, where they lost 5-2 to France. four assists in the run to the last four. he can do. We concentrate on what we and that is the most important thing. very highly and are not in the semi- er Toni Kroos, his Madrid teammate, With Wales now fl ying the fl ag alone The match is likely to be billed as a can do as a team, and not concentrate He has given his all,” said the Valencia fi nal for no reason,” added Bale. “Even who took a dim view of Wales’s chanc- for the minor nations, Bale is drawing contest between the two most expen- on individuals.” man. “Bale is a reference for Wales just if they haven’t won, they’ve got the re- es prior to the tournament. inspiration from Denmark and Greece, sive players in the world—Ronaldo, Despite winning the Champions as Cristiano is for us. Bale knows the sults needed. We will do our homework “I remember Toni Kroos saying we’d who defi ed expectations to win the who will play a record third European League twice in three years with Ma- Spanish league, but I have also played as normal. Hopefully on the night we only have three games. So it would be European Championship in 1992 and Championship semi-fi nal, and his Real drid, Bale has tended to be overshad- against British teams before and I know can put in another great performance to meet him in the fi nal,” Bale said 2004 respectively. Madrid teammate Bale. Perhaps omi- owed by Ronaldo in the Spanish capital, their style. and make more history.” with a smile. “It was a good laugh and Both sides will be disrupted by sus- nously for Wales, Ronaldo has netted where the Portuguese is a living legend “They are strong, aggressive, they Bale will also have the taunts of a joke, a bit of banter. But we’ve obvi- pension with Ben Davies and, in par- twice in each of his last two games in as the top scorer in Real’s history. attack and counter-attack very well. teammates past and present echoing in ously exceeded a lot of people’s expec- ticular, Arsenal midfi elder Ramsey a Lyon for club and country. However, of the two Bale has been You can’t talk about favourites in a his memory when he takes to the fi eld. tations. We understand that and we’re huge miss for Wales. Crystal Palace’s Wales are have already surpassed all in better form in France, scoring in semi-fi nal. If Wales have got this far it Bale saw fi ve major tournaments come just enjoying it now.” is expected to replace expectations on their fi rst ever appear- all of Wales’ group games and forcing is because they have deserved too. We and go over the fi rst 10 years of his ca- Bale says that the atmosphere with- Ramsey, whilst Davies’s absence could ance at the European Championship Northern Ireland’s Gareth McAuley have to have respect.” reer, but with Wales having ended their in the Wales camp is joyous, with regu- provoke a reshuffl e in defence with fi nals by reaching the last four with a into the own-goal with a devilish cross Portugal have reached the last four 58-year wait on the international side- lar quizzes helping in preventing the moving from right wing- rousing 3-1 win over the highly-fan- which decided their last 16 tie. By con- despite not winning a game in 90 lines, the 26-year-old is keen to make players from dwelling on the enormity back into the back three making way cied Belgium. trast, Ronaldo has look surly, stressed minutes as they were the only side to up for lost time. of what they have achieved. for Fulham’s to make his However, the spectre of the Real and well off his usually impeccable progress having drawn all three group “I have had a lot of abuse over the “We’re still doing our quizzes,” said fi rst start of the tournament. Madrid teammates, the world’s two standards in front of goal. games before Ricardo Quaresma’s years,” the Real Madrid forward said. Bale, who is on a quiz team with Chris Portugal are shorn of the banned most expensive players, going head- The three-time world player of the 117th-minute extra-time winner saw “Just when we used to lose and when Gunter, , Hal Robson-Kanu, William Carvalho, but Gomes and Joao to-head adds extra spice to an already year scored twice against Hungary to off Croatia and penalties were needed we were (ranked) 100th in the world. Danny Ward and Ben Davies. “We won Moutinho are in contention to start af- dazzling encounter in Lyon. become the only player to score in four to oust Poland in the quarter-fi nals. You have nine weeks’ holiday instead again today. That is six in a row now. ter recovering from injury. Danilo is the “It’s not about two players, every- separate European championships. But Bale, though, refused to be fooled by of two. It is good to fi nally be in a ma- We’re on fi re!” most obvious option to occupy Carval- one knows that, it’s about two nations he failed to fi nd the net against Iceland, Portugal’s route to a fourth semi-fi nal jor tournament, actually doing great The squad have also been watching ho’s holding role in midfi eld. Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, July 6, 2016 EURO 2016

SPOTLIGHT Five landmarks in Ronaldo-Bale’s Ronaldo, Bale share relationship Lyon: Real Madrid teammates than Ronaldo. The Portugues Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth stormed off disbelieving his Bale go head-to-head hoping wait to score with a bicycle kick to carry Portugal and Wales continues. respectively to the Euro 2016 It was not the first time Ro- mentality not just final today. naldo was riled by a Bale goal. Here are five key factors in Amidst the euphoria when Bale the often tricky relationship be- netted Real’s decisive second tween the two most expensive goal in the 2014 Champions players in football history: League final against Atletico Madrid to land the Spanish BALE’S FIRST DAY giants 10th European Cup, talent: Coleman After prolonged transfer talks Ronaldo was one of the only with Tottenham Hotspur, Ga- players not to embrace Bale. reth Bale finally arrived in the ‘Talent is a huge distraction, it is not enough but he has the attitude with it’ Spanish capital on September WORLD RECORD BALE 2, 2013 amid much specula- FEE REVEALED tion at how Cristiano Ronaldo In a bid to placate Ronaldo, Real would treat the pretender to his had tried for nearly three years crown as king of the Santiago to insist the fee paid to bring Bernabeu. The initial encounter Bale from Tottenham had not was a friendly one. surpassed the £80 mn paid for A much more timid Bale Ronaldo to Manchester United than the one that will take to in 2009. the field in Lyon appeared However, any doubts of almost awestruck by Ronaldo’s Bale’s true cost were dispelled presence as he was welcomed on January 21 this year when by the three-time Player of whistleblowing website Foot- the Year at Madrid’s luxurious ball Leaks published a copy Valdebebas training ground. of the contract Madrid signed with Spurs, detailing a total BERNABEU BOO BOYS deal worth 100,759,417 euros TARGET BALE (£85m). By his own admission Bale struggled with his form and BALE WINS RESPECT fitness in his second season at Ronaldo unleashed a stinging Madrid. His case was not aided attack of some of his lesser- by Ronaldo’s demonstrative known Madrid teammates after discontent on a number of a 1-0 defeat to Atletico in Febru- occasions when Bale went for ary, claiming Real — then third goal himself instead of picking in La Liga — would be top if eve- out the Portuguese. In the ryone met his high standards. worst example, Ronaldo’s rage Bale missed the match through left Bale facing whistles from injury and Ronaldo admitted the Real crowd in a 3-0 win he could not carry Madrid to over Espanyol in January 2015. victory on his own without Bale by his side. BALE SCORES, “I don’t want to undervalue RONALDO FUMES any of my teammates, but Ronaldo is one of the most when the best aren’t there it is single-minded players ever and diff icult to win,” said Ronaldo. this could be clearly seen in a “I like to play with Pepe, Karim routine Real Madrid 2-0 win (Benzema), Bale, Marcelo. I over Levante in March last year. don’t want to say that Jese After Ronaldo’s initial acro- (Rodriguez), Lucas (Vazquez), batic eff ort had been cleared, (Mateo) Kovavic are not good Bale expertly swept home the players, they are very good, but rebound to the delight of every- to win a competition you need one with a Real aff iliation other the best.”

Wales’ James Collins (left), Gareth Bale (centre) and sit in the dugout during a training session at Parc yesterday. (Reuters)

AFP his (Ronaldo’s) desire to get better,” said from the “darker days” when they were as insisted Portugal’s experience in major Lyon Coleman. low as 117 in the world rankings less than competitions makes them the favourites “You see that on the pitch, how moti- fi ve years ago. “We had a whole cam- for the Lyon clash. “We believe in our- vated he is for himself to score and win. I paign to get through to get here where selves. We go into this game as under- ales boss Chris Coleman think ever since he was young at Man Utd they were exactly the same. Where we dogs, Portugal have been in seven semi- hailed Cristiano Ronaldo he had that desire to train harder than fi nd ourselves now hasn’t just happened fi nals and this is our fi rst but that is not and Gareth Bale’s mental everyone to get better. Talent is a huge overnight. The bond isn’t just because a problem.” strength ahead of the show- distraction, talent is not enough but he we’re here playing well. Everyone has And win or lose today, Coleman is sure Wdown between the Real Madrid stars has the attitude with it, same as Bale he good team spirit on a shiny day when you the future for Welsh football is bright when Wales face Portugal in the Euro has the mentality to go with it.” are winning. That spirit comes from the having shown that they can compete with 2016 semi-fi nals today. Captain Ashley Williams insisted darker days when it wasn’t so easy for us.” the continent’s best in their fi rst fi nals for Coleman said he has received glow- Wales will not obsess over stopping Ro- And Coleman believes Bale’s laid-back 58 years. “The worst thing would have ing reports about the three-time world naldo, but acknowledged the size of the nature despite his star billing has been a been if we didn’t get our game right for player of the year from Welsh legend Ryan challenge. “Obviously he is one of the key factor in fostering a bond between the this tournament after such a long wait. It Giggs and Ronaldo’s former manager at greatest players in the world, but they do players. “They have to want to work hard, would have been a huge step back for us. Manchester United Alex Ferguson. have other weapons,” said the Swansea learn, it is not just talent, you need peo- “This tournament is part of the learn- However, he believes Bale, who has City defender. “We are not obsessing over ple with good mentalities. This group is a ing curve and there is more to come for scored three goals in leading Wales to him, we will try to nullify them as a team good bunch and when you have someone these boys, long after I am here, and there their fi rst major semi-fi nal, has worked as we have all tournament.” like Gareth Bale who behaves like he does is success in this team. We are here to just as hard to become the most expen- On top of Bale’s brilliance the key to that rubs off .” compete, to show what we are and let’s Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (L) jokes with teammate Ricardo sive player in the world. “If I ever speak Wales’ historic run has been an excel- Despite reaching the last four without see if we are is good enough to compete Quaresma during a training session at in Marcoussis, . (AFP) to Giggsy or Alex all they speak about is lent team spirit that Coleman says comes winning a game in 90 minutes, Coleman against the best.”

THREAT FOCUS Euro fi nal attack Allen making a name for himself as a Wales hero risk grows if Reuters Allen’s Euro 2016 highlights have Lyon, France While Joe Allen (centre) has yet to consistently included an exquisite pass to re- produce his best for Liverpool, his performances for lease Aaron Ramsey to score Wales’s France plays : Wales have been nothing short of superb. (AFP) opening goal in their group stage hen Joe Allen walked fi nale against Russia. He also took a through the door at stranglehold on the midfi eld in their Germany Liverpool football quarter-fi nal victory despite giving club his former man- away the ball in the build-up to Bel- Berlin: Germany said yesterday Sunday’s fi nal Wager Brendan Rodgers beamed at gium’s opening goal. game of the Euro 2016 football championship in the waiting television cameras and Like many of his Wales team- Paris could prove an attractive target for Islamic confi dently proclaimed: “This is the mates, Allen seems to excel on the State, especially if hosts France, victim of No- Welsh Xavi.” international stage — his place in vember attacks, are playing. It was perhaps an unenviable their starting lineup is assured and “The French are well prepared,” German Inte- moniker for a young player making his role is widely celebrated. For rior Minister Thomas de Maiziere told Reuters in his way in the game and after four his club last season, he frequently an interview. “And we have no serious indication years at Anfi eld few would claim found himself playing second fi ddle of terror attacks. Of course it could still change that Allen has lived up to compari- to England’s Jordan Henderson and for the remaining games. The more spectacular sons to the great Spaniard, one of James Milner as well as Germany’s the games are and the stronger a showing France Europe’s fi nest ever midfi elders. Emre Can. makes, this makes it (the fi nal) a main attraction. While he has yet to consistently All those three have been at Euro But the security services know that,” he added. produce his best for his club, Allen’s 2016, yet none has shone like Allen France has deployed more than 90,000 police, performances for Wales have been has for Wales. For his country, Allen soldiers and private security agents to secure the nothing short of superb. is the axis around which the mid- tournament. It has also maintained a state of With his eye for a pass and tireless fi eld pivots, with Wales’s attacking emergency in place since November when 130 work ethic it is easy to see why his talents Ramsey and Bale feeding off people were killed in Islamic State attacks on international teammates and man- the ammunition he provides. Paris targets including the where ager are determined that he will not Today’s semi-fi nal against Portu- the fi nal will be played. be an unsung hero in their Euro 2016 gal, though, will require a reshaping France will play Germany tomorrow in Mar- campaign. As Wales have surprised possession and move the ball seam- a week and everyone queues up to every game and I’m sure he’ll go on of the midfi eld with Ramsey sus- seille for a place in the fi nal in Paris against ei- everyone en route to the last four lessly from defence to attack. Wales sing his praises. “I can’t really speak to do incredible things in his career.” pended. When Allen grew a beard, ther Wales or Portugal, who face each other a day of the tournament in France, Allen manager Chris Coleman describes highly enough of him,” Wales’s tal- Captain Ashley Williams is also a the Wales fans changed the ‘Welsh earlier in Lyon. De Maiziere repeated his warning has quietly gone about his busi- him as a leader, although not of the isman Gareth Bale said after Allen fan. “We have a WhatsApp messag- Xavi’ nickname to the ‘Welsh Pirlo’, that Islamic State would seek to carry out spec- ness, dictating play from the heart traditional footballing archetype helped to steer them into the knock- ing group and at least once a week in honour of hirsute Italian mid- tacular attacks abroad as it comes under military of their midfi eld. — the quiet, mild-mannered Allen out stages of the tournament. we have a Joe Allen Appreciation fi elder Andrea. Should Wales beat pressure in Syria and Iraq, where it is losing ter- He is unfl ashy, tenacious without shows the way on the pitch, he says. “Maybe he doesn’t get the head- Day — great beard, great haircut, Portugal in Lyon, and perhaps even ritory. “Europe, and Germany, is the focus of in- being overly physical and almost His teammates hold a ‘Joe Al- lines outside but in the squad he great guy, he’s the main man in the go one better, he may be known as ternational terrorism,” he said. metronomic in his ability to recycle len Appreciation Day’ at least once gets them. He works his socks off squad. Class player too.” just plain ‘Joe Allen’ in future. Gulf Times Wednesday, July 6, 2016 3 EURO 2016

FOOTBALL Zaza sorry as dancing Griezmann leads penalty goes viral

French goals Montpellier, France: Juven- tus striker Simone Zaza has pleaded for leniency from angry social media followers after a crucial but comical penalty miss in a Euro 2016 charge at Euro quarter-final shootout with Germany. “What happened will stick with me for the Despite being rejected by several French clubs because rest of my life,” Zaza said in a post on his Instagram of his size, Griezmann does not hold grudges account. “It was a crucial moment for the team, and AFP minute corner saw Paul Pogba edine Zidane down the tunnel at for me, and I failed. Once Montpellier, France head France’s second. half-time to ask for the Real Ma- again, I’m sorry.” Two minutes before half-time drid midfi elder’s shorts. Zidane Zaza avoided the fate of Griezmann set up Dmitri Payet walked off in just his pants. teammate Graziano Pelle, e boasts a Germanic for France’s third, and only two The blue-eyed, blond haired whose girlfriend responded name, Portuguese roots minutes later he pounced on Ol- Griezmann is ruthless on the to his penalty miss for the and learned his foot- ivier Giroud’s through ball to beat pitch, and talks and acts like Azzurri by calling him a ball in Spain, but France Iceland goalkeeper Hannes Hall- a Spaniard. When he scored “coglione” (a*****e). But areH counting on Antoine Griez- dorsson with a sumptious chip. France’s leveller against the three days after Italy’s mann’s loyalty to take them to a Payet got down on bended knee Irish, it was in Spanish that he 6-5 loss to Germany in Euro 2016 triumph. Going into so the Atletico striker could lift screamed in celebration. And like , the 25-year-old tomorrow’s semi-fi nal with Ger- up his boot up for the West Ham some of his South American club Zaza’s dancing lead-up to many, the 25-year-old Atletico playmaker to kiss it. teammates, Griezmann walks his penalty miss is still riling Madrid striker is the tourna- In the Euro 2016 Golden Boot carries around a fl ask of the bit- fans angry at Italy’s absence ment’s leading scorer with four competition, Griezmann, who ter-tasting, caff eine-infused tea from the semi-finals. goals. With his strike in the 5-2 also has two assists, leads a mate. Italy, the beaten 2012 quarter-fi nal win over Iceland, France 1-2-3 with Giroud second Born in Alsace to a family with finalists, had upset predic- Griezmann became the fi rst (three goals, two assists) and Portuguese roots, Griezmann tions by winning their Frenchman since Payet (3/2) third, leaving Real was given a baptism of fi re when European Championship hit nine goals at Euro ‘84 to hit Madrid trio Gareth Bale (3/2), Al- he left France as a 13-year-old: group and toppling holders four times at the tournament. varo Morata (3/0) and Cristiano learning the culture of Spain, Spain 2-0 in the last 16 to set Despite being rejected by several Ronaldo (2/2) in their wake. and its football, in the Basque up a quarter-final clash with French clubs because of his size, Fans cannot wait for the semi- country. Once rejected by French Germany. With the match the cosmopolitan Griezmann fi nal against Germany at Mar- side Lyon for being too 1-1 after extra-time, it took a does not hold grudges and now seille’s Stade Velodrome. “Griez- small, Griezmann was salvaged penalty shootout to decide appears to be hitting his stride. mann is confi rming that he’s one by a scout for Spanish league who goes into a semi-final He made a slow start in a 2-1 of the best strikers in Europe,” side Sociedad, Eric Olhats, who match-up with hosts France opening victory over Romania Yannick Stopyra, a former France moved him to Spain and took him on Thursday. but came off the bench to score striker and now the top scout under his wing. Zaza was not the only a 90th minute goal in a 2-0 win for Ligue 1 side Bordeaux, told In a Spanish league featuring player to miss the target over Albania. After a score- French sports daily L’Equipe. some of the smallest, but most during an epic 18-kick less draw with Switzerland, two He dared to suggest Griez- gifted players in Europe — Messi shootout. But his attempt Griezmann goals in three sec- mann’s all-round work rate ranks and Barcelona teammate Andres drew the most ridicule. As ond-half minutes conquered a him alongside Barcelona great Iniesta to name but two — Griez- he stepped up to try and team given Lionel Messi. “Contrary to Messi, mann’s 1.75 metre height was beat Germany goalkeeper hope by ’s second- for example, he defends a lot and, never a problem. Manuel Neuer, Zaza started minute penalty. more importantly, tracks back to Griezmann made 200 appear- jogging on his tiptoes That 2-1 win secured France’s mark players.” ances for Sociedad before joining before blazing the ball over passage to the quarter-fi nals, and Despite his Spanish football Atletico for 30 mn euros in 2014. the crossbar. a clash with an Iceland team that upbringing, there is little point Lyon’s chief scout, Gerard Bon- Social media was quick sent England’s stars packing. debating Griezmann’s patriot- neau, told Spanish newspaper AS to react with a series of Griezmann had a hande in three ism. When he was 16, Griezmann, that Lyon’s failure to sign the tal- videos showing people and of the goals score by half-time then at Real Sociedad, is said ent Griezmann had been ‘a his- animals appearing to do the when France led 4-0. His 20th to have followed his hero Zin- toric mistake.’ ‘Zaza dance’ going online. Zaza said: “I take responsi- bility, as I always have, and move forward, knowing that we made Italy proud. I would like to thank all the people who have off ered support after this incident. They know I didn’t mean to mess up like I did.” One fan fighting Zaza’s corner was his girlfriend, social media blogger Chiara Biasi. She hit out at a fan who criticised Zaza on Twitter.

ROUND-UP FOCUS Captain Schweinsteiger sits out No goals, no problem from Germany’s training session for Germany’s Mueller

AFP have qualifi ed for a 16-team tournament. AFP Evian, France But Kallen said the less glamorous teams Evian, France have been supported by some of the most passionate fans in the tournament. ermany are waiting on the fi tness “This has opened new areas for football,” e is the only big-name of captain Bastian Schweinsteiger he said. “I think there will be a boom in forward yet to score at for their Euro 2016 semi-fi nal those countries and I think we well see more Euro 2016, but Thomas against France in two days’ time, kids there playing football.” Mueller says his main Gas the Manchester United star sat out of The 24-team format will continue at Hconcern is helping Germany beat yesterday’s training. the 2020 fi nals and Kallen suggested UEFA France in tomorrow’s Euro 2016 Schweinsteiger strained his right knee in might stick to it after that. UEFA has no semi-fi nal. Stars like Portugal’s Saturday’s quarter-fi nal win over Italy, fi r- problems with the organisation or security Cristiano Ronaldo and Poland’s ing his spot-kick over the bar, as Germany at the tournament which has been largely Robert Lewandowski found won 6-5 in a penalty shoot-out after it fi n- incident-free since violent clashes marred the net in France after initially ished 1-1 after extra-time. an early game between England and Russia struggling to score at the Euro- The 31-year-old defensive midfi elder in . pean Championship fi nals. missed training yesterday at Germany’s The governing body has faced criticism, But Mueller, top scorer at the base in Evian, spending the session on an however, for the way it allocated tickets to 2010 World Cup and who hit 32 exercise bike. Germany already has person- the football associations. Ireland manager goals for Bayern Munich last sea- nel problems for the Marseille semi with Martin O’Neill called the system unfair. son, has yet to open his account centre-back Mats Hummels suspended Ticketing, overall, was a success with most here. The self-confi dent forward plus Sami Khedira and Mario Gomez ruled matches sold out. says his sole concern is help- out by injury. ing Germany win in Marseille Schweinsteiger has yet to start any of UEFA NOT HAPPY ABOUT BALE in their bid to add the European Germany’s fi ve games so far at the Euro- Germany’s Bastian Schweinsteiger DAUGHTER ON PITCH crown to their 2014 World Cup pean Championship fi nals after tearing the warm up during a training session in UEFA are not happy with Gareth Bale and title. Mueller said Germany are medial ligament in his right knee in March. Evian, France yesterday. (AFP) other Wales players parading their children at the contest as world champi- Germany’s midfielder Thomas Mueller is yet to open his account at Germany coach Joachim Loew has said he on the Euro 2016 pitch in Paris after their ons “and the chance to win two Euro 2016, but that hasn’t stopped him from letting out a grin, two will not risk any player who is ‘not 100 % The additional eight places allowed Alba- last 16 win over Northern Ireland. titles back-to-back is not some- days ahead of the semi-final match against France. (AFP) fi t’ as die Mannschaft’s medical staff race to nia, Iceland, Northern Ireland, Slovakia and “It is always cute when the kids are there,” thing you get everyday.” get Schweinsteiger ready. Wales to qualify for the fi rst time. Some of said UEFA operations director Martin Ka- “Reaching that goal is what prepare to face the French. “If tian Schweinsteiger is struggling Defender Benedikt Howedes also sat out the newcomers have been particularly suc- llen. “But it is a European Championship drives me on. I haven’t had that we need a goal, then Mueller will with a knee strain. training session as a precaution, as they cessful, including Northern Ireland, who not a family party.” many chances here and the ones score one for us,” head coach Nevertheless, Mueller is rel- prepare to fl y to Marseille to play for a place reached the last 16, and quarter-fi nalists Bale hugging his daughter Alba on the I have missed were by a matter Joachim Loew said on Monday. ishing facing the hosts in the in Sunday’s fi nal in Paris against either Iceland. Wales have reached the semi-fi - pitch after the 1-0 win over of centimetres. I’m not driving Team manager Oliver Bierhoff semis, just as Germany did at Wales or Portugal. nals where they take on Portugal on today Northern Ireland became one of the images myself crazy about it. I was the said it was just a matter of time. the 2014 World Cup when they in Lyon. “People were anxious the format of Euro 2016 after. Other players also had top-scorer in South Africa and “Thomas Mueller is just keep- romped to a 7-1 win over Brazil. NEW 24-TEAM FORMAT FOR might not work but it has worked,” Kallen their children on the pitch. “We are not 100 we went out in the semi-fi nals. ing his powder dry. Then he’ll “It’s a lot of fun (to play games EUROS IS SUCCESS, SAYS UEFA told reporters. “We have seen two teams % against it, but we are cautious. We have to I haven’t changed anything and explode,” said the former striker like this), France are a bit under UEFA believes the 24-team format intro- (Iceland and Wales) going further than any- guarantee security,” Kallen said. I’m not bothered. Sure, a goal with a smile. pressure as the hosts,” said Mu- duced for the fi rst time at Euro 2016 is a body believed they would and that’s posi- “There should be a certain order. There would calm me down, as it would The mood in the German camp eller. success and will boost football in some of tive.” are also certain safety issues behind it. mean I wouldn’t have to answer is of confi dence, despite consid- “We’re meeting then in the the continent’s smaller nations, tourna- Some people have criticised the new Small kids fi ve, six years old. If something any more questions about it,” he erable personnel problems. Mats semi-fi nals, there aren’t much ment director Martin Kallen said. Europe’s format, saying it has not increased the ex- happens what do you do,” said the Swiss of- said in Evian with a grin. Hummels is suspended, Sami better games than this. It’s good governing body opted eight years ago to ex- citement of the tournament and suggest- fi cial, who said there would be problems if Mueller has the support of Khedira and Mario Gomez are for us again, but I’m not saying pand the competition from 16 to 24 teams. ing that Wales and Northern Ireland would there was a pitch invasion. Germany’s management as they out injured, while captain Bas- we’ll win 7-1, mind you.” Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, July 6, 2016 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Mourinho targets could ‘suff er the glory at Manchester consequences’ of Brexit: Wenger

Reuters the best players from Real and Barca would say: ‘I also want to go to England because everyone United unveiling is over there.’ All of that is now rsenal manager Ar- uncertain and Brexit is a spanner sene Wenger said he in the works not in the very short ‘I want the players to forget the last three years at United’ was worried about the term, but in the long term, yes,” future of the Premier Wenger said. LeagueA and the damage it could “The players will see their By Jamie Jackson The Guardian suff er as Britain prepared to face wages come down a bit and the the consequences of leaving the competition with Germany, for European Union (EU). example, will be stronger,” added bullish José Mourinho stated he “The way in which England the Frenchman, who has an eco- wants to win the title, get the will leave the European Union nomics degree. “But that was team playing well and promote will dictate the future of the one of the risks of the job and youth for Manchester United, Premier League,” Wenger told that worries me less. England duringA an offi cial unveiling as manager in British media. “If the league be- still has a good amount of fi nan- which the Portuguese also aimed a barb comes less attractive, the broad- cial resources. There is a margin at Louis van Gaal by being clear there will casters will off er less money for in terms of the money that will be no hiding behind “philosophies”. the rights, club revenues will come in again this year.” Mourinho was appointed as the suc- decrease and the Premier League Wenger believes the English cessor to Van Gaal, who constantly refer- will suff er the consequences. clubs’ spending during the close enced his managerial philosophy when he There lies the problem.” season will be aff ected after the held the role, on 27 May. The 53-year-old Last month’s vote by Brit- pound fell to its lowest level in meets the fi rst group of his players today. ons to leave the EU has left the more than 30 years following the Asked what his hopes are for United, world’s fi fth-biggest economy vote. He dismissed a suggestion Mourinho said: “Depends on the way facing deep uncertainty about its that footballers should be given you want to face it. I was never very good growth prospects and its attrac- exemption from any freedom of playing with the words or hiding behind tiveness to investors. Despite the movement restrictions within words and hiding behind philosophies. I Premier League’s 5.14-billion- Europe if they were introduced. never tried to be good at that. I was always pound ($6.72-billion) domestic A lot of jobs are international. much more aggressive in my approach television rights deal set to kick Why should we prioritise with the risks that can bring. It would be in from August, Wenger feared football? When a rule exists, it easy – and even honest and pragmatic that broadcasters would off er should apply to all professions – to focus on the last three years, on the less money in the longer term as otherwise there will always be fact that we don’t qualify for Champions a result of Brexit. demands that are made,” the League and so on, and be quite pragmatic “We thought that one day 66-year-old Wenger said. to say: ‘Let’s work and try and be back to the Champions League, try and be back to the top four.’ “I prefer to be more aggressive and say we want to win. What is playing well? It is scoring more goals than the opponents, conceding less, making your fans proud because you give everything and you win. It is everything at the same time. It is an Jose Mourinho off icially started his work as aggressive approach by myself. I want Manchester United manager at the club’s everything. Of course we are not going to Carrington training base yesterday. (AFP) get everything but we want to.” Mourinho was sacked by Chelsea in December but dismissed any notion of having to show his worth again. He said: “There are some managers … the last the last three years the best we did was “Ryan wanted to be Manchester United quence of his success in his career.” time they won a title was 10 years ago. fourth. I can’t go – it is my nature. manager and the owners, Mr [Ed] Wood- On Rooney he said: “In football there Some of them, the last time they won a “Manchester United - for many years ward [executive vice-chairman] decided are many jobs on the fi eld. The one that title was never. The last time I won a title success was just routine and in this mo- to give the job to me. So when you are is more diffi cult to fi nd is the guy who was one year ago [with Chelsea], not 10 ment the last three years are to forget. I speaking about ‘Did I off er him a job?’. He has put the ball on the net. The players years ago or 15 years ago, so if I have a lot want the players to forget. I don’t want could be what he wanted in the club. The change during the years – their qualities, to prove, imagine the others. But the re- the players to think we have to do better club wanted to give him any important their characteristics. It is normal a player ality is that was never important for me. and fi nish fourth. Finishing fourth is not job in the club. It happened with myself in changes a bit but there is something that I play against myself. That is my feeling the aim.” Barcelona in 2000 – I had a contract for will never change which is the natural ap- many times. Mourinho was also clear and the de- another two years. It was not easy to go to petite to put the ball in the net. aybe he is “I feel I have to prove not to the oth- parture of Ryan Giggs, who has left the another fi ght. For Ryan it is not easy to go not a striker, not a No9 any more, but for ers but to myself. I would never be able to club after a 29-year association, and the step from assistant to manager – it is me he will never be a No6, playing 50 me- work without success. That is my nature where Wayne Rooney will play. “About the step to leave his house of 29 [years]. tres from the goal. You can tell me his pass and I have always to fi nd the reasons why Ryan, let me fi nish – I never run away He was brave, he is honest – so good luck. is amazing but my pass is also amazing I have always many questions towards about my responsibility. It is not my re- If one day he wants to come back when without pressure. To be there and put the myself and the people working with me. sponsibility that Ryan is not in the club. I am here, and if one day the club off ers ball in the net is the most diffi cult thing. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes the English clubs’ That is my nature. I could approach this The job Ryan wanted is the job the club him the chance to be manager, I think it For me he will be a 9, a 10, a nine and a half spending during the close season will be aff ected after the pound fell job in a defensive point of view by saying decided to give me. will be something natural and the conse- – but never a 6 or an 8.” to its lowest level in more than 30 years following the vote. (Reuters)

CORRUPTION ROUND-UP FIFA reduces Cheapest tickets for 2018 WC priced at $105

AFP ation with Championship side Newcas- Moscow tle United after terminating his contract Valcke ban from by mutual consent. After scoring seven times in his 275 appearances during his he cheapest tickets for the 2018 spell with the Magpies, the 34-year-old World Cup in Russia will cost defender will return to his native Argen- 12 to 10 years $105 (94 euros, £80.50), with a tina to join San Lorenzo. place in the stands for the fi nal costingT at least $455, FIFA announced Reuters FIFA’s appeal committee CAMEROON BANS YOUNGSTERS Zurich mainly confi rmed the yesterday. For Russian residents, a spe- FOR LYING ABOUT THEIR AGES decisions taken by the cial price is in place of $19.75 for the Fourteen Cameroonian players have been ethics committee but said group stages, and $109 for the fi nal. suspended by their federation, for lying IFA said yesterday it it had cut the ban on Valcke “We wanted to ensure that prices about their ages in order to play in the had reduced the bans from 12 to 10 years because are fair to make the event accessible to Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, local imposed on two senior of “mitigating factors” as many people in the world as possi- media reported. offi cials, including its ble,” said FIFA general secretary Fatma “14 players have just been found to be ad- Fformer secretary general, who committee but said it had cut the Samoura in a statement. justing their ages by an MRI test” reported were barred from taking part in ban on Valcke from 12 to 10 years Prices for the fi nal at the Luzhniki Sta- the Cameroon Radio television (CRTV). football-related activities fol- because of “mitigating factors”. dium in Moscow will range from $455 They had been selected to play in the 2017 lowing a corruption investiga- It said the ethics committee’s to $1,100, with opening-match tickets event to be held in Madagascar. The results tion. Former secretary general adjudicatory chamber had not costing between $220 to $550. At the FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura (right) and Russian Sports Minister of the tests revealed that the footballers were Jerome Valcke was handed a ban suffi ciently considered mitigat- 2014 World Cup in Brazil the cheapest Vitaly Mutko attend a news conference in Moscow, Russia, yesterday. (Reuters) older than they had claimed originally in an of 12 years while another of- ing factors when assessing the fi rst-round tickets were $90, and $440 attempt to play in the junior tournament. fi cial, Chung Mong-joon, was Frenchman’s attempt to grant for the fi nal. ARGENTINA STRUGGLING TO fresh from steering the senior national In Cameroon, as in many African coun- given a six-year ban in a corrup- TV and media rights in the Car- In stark contrast, it was possible to PREPARE TEAM FOR RIO team to the Copa America Centenario fi - tries, cases of young athletes lying about tion scandal at the heart of FIFA ibbean for the 2018 and 2022 fi nd group-stage tickets for the ongoing Twice men’s football gold-medal win- nal in the United States last month, was their age to boost their careers are common. which led to several dozen peo- FIFA World Cups to a third party 2016 European Championship in France ners Argentina are in danger of failing to due to begin training with the Olympic In total, 40 young players went through the ple, including senior football of- for a fee far below their actual for 25 euros ($28, £21), with the cheapest send a team to the Rio Olympics football squad this week but does not even have tests on June 30 and July 1 in Yaounde. fi cials, being indicted. market value. spots for the fi nal at the Stade de France tournament due to a leadership vacuum 11 players to make up a team. The men’s Valcke, who was right-hand A FIFA spokesman declined to on Sunday costing just 85 euros. at the Argentine FA (AFA). Rio football tournament kicks off on Aug. LEICESTER POISED TO SIGN man to FIFA’s now-banned say what these mitigating factors “Today, there’s a 50 % chance Argenti- 3, two days before the offi cial start of the CSKA MOSCOW STRIKER MUSA president Sepp Blatter for eight were. The appeals committee re- VALENCIA SIGN PORTUGAL na won’t present its men’s football team Games. Nigerian striker Ahmed Musa is set to years, was found guilty of mis- duced the suspension on Chung, WINGER at the Olympic Games,” Argentine Olym- Argentina were drawn in a group with complete a move to Premier League conduct over the sale of World a Korean, from six to fi ve years, Portuguese international winger Nani pic Committee (COA) president Gerardo Portugal, Honduras and Algeria. Ar- champions Leicester City from Russian Cup tickets, abuse of travel ex- saying there was insuffi cient ev- has reached an agreement to join La Werthein said. “It has something to do gentina, who also hold two soccer silver club CSKA Moscow subject to a medical, penses, attempting to sell TV idence to prove he had breached Liga side Valencia from Fenerbahce on a with what’s happening at the AFA. They medals, won gold at the 2004 Games in according to the player’s agent. rights below their market value an article of FIFA’s ethics code three-year deal, the Spanish club con- haven’t spoken to us for 20 months,” Athens and 2008 tournament in Beijing The 23-year-old, who scored 13 league and destruction of evidence. covering confi dentiality. fi rmed yesterday. The 29-year old left Werthein was quoted as saying in but missed out on the London Olympics goals in 29 league appearances last sea- He and Chung, a former Fifa The committee partially con- Manchester United in 2015 for the Turk- La Nacion newspaper. four years ago. They qualifi ed last year son as the club won the Russian title, was vice-president, were excluded fi rmed its decision from last Oc- ish outfi t following a loan spell at his The cash-strapped AFA is under scru- for the Rio Games, where under-23 teams linked by British media to Leicester City from football by the Zurich- tober where Chung was found former club Sporting Lisbon. tiny from world body FIFA over irregu- can include up to three over-age players, in January and had also attracted inter- based FIFA after being found guilty of infringing four other During his successful seven years larities in funds from television revenue as South American under-20 champions. est from Southampton and West Ham guilty of breaching its code of articles. It confi rmed a fi ne of at Old Traff ord, Nani won four Pre- and a failure to agree on holding presi- United. The fee for the Nigerian inter- conduct. 100,000 Swiss francs on Valcke mier League titles, the League Cup, the dential elections and a format for the LONG-SERVING DEFENDER national is in the region of 16mn pounds Yesterday, FIFA’s appeal com- but reduced that on Chung from Champions League and the FIFA Club fi rst division championship due to kick COLOCCINI LEAVES NEWCASTLE ($21.20mn) according to British media mittee mainly confi rmed the 100,000 Swiss francs to 50,000 World Cup. The deal is reported to be in off next month. Long-serving captain Fabricio Coloccini reports. decisions taken by the ethics Swiss francs. the region of 8.5mn euros ($9.4mn). Argentina coach Gerardo Martino, has decided to end his eight-year associ- Gulf Times Wednesday, July 6, 2016 5 CRICKET

FOCUS Trescothick issues Amir warning for England AFP a full-length inswinger bowled fi rst- Taunton, United Kingdom class debutant Adam Hose (10). And eight minutes after lunch, Amir bowled Peter Trego (23) with another arcus Trescothick warned fi ne inswinger that knocked over the England’s batsmen to expect batsman’s middle stump and left the a tough time in the middle other two standing. facing Mohamed Amir in the “He bowled very well,” said the upcomingM series against Pakistan. 40-year-old Trescothick, whose nine- Amir took three for 36 in 11 overs in balls faced on Monday were all bowled Pakistan’s opening match of their Eng- by Amir, after stumps. land tour against Somerset at Taunton “He swung the ball really late, that’s as Somerset slumped to 128 all out in duty in January. The 24-year-old is the biggest thing we noticed. In my reply to Pakistan’s fi rst innings 359 for now back in England and could make ‘magnifi cent’ eight I thought it was eight declared—a defi cit of 231 runs. his Test return in the fi rst of a four- pretty hard work, it was tricky,” add- “You get a lot of bowlers who Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq match series at Lord’s on July 14. ed Trescothick, who in 76 Tests from swing it quite early but he opted against enforcing the follow-on The fl oppy hair he had as a teenager 2000-2006 scored 5,825 runs at an (Amir) was swinging it late and declared their second innings at may have been replaced by a shorter average of nearly 44 with 14 hundreds. 236 for 4, a huge lead of 467 runs. haircut and a goatee beard, but the “You get a lot of bowlers who swing and as it was coming down the Azhar Ali scored an unbeaten 101 whippy action that made Amir one of it quite early but he (Amir) was swing- pitch you were almost while Asad Shafi q was 69 . cricket’s hottest properties was still on ing it late and as it was coming down guessing whether it was an Amir’s exciting career came to a show at south-west county Somerset’s the pitch you were almost guessing inswinger or whether it was shuddering halt during a Lord’s Test headquarters ground. whether it was an inswinger or wheth- one of the straight ones. On in 2010 when he and new-ball partner After Pakistan had declared on er it was one of the straight ones,” the Mohamed Asif were caught bowling Monday morning following a century Somerset stalwart explained. that performance yes, he will no-balls to order on the instructions by Younis Khan, Amir took the new Trescothick was in no doubt that, cause problems for England...” of then captain Salman Butt as part of ball. Trescothick took two fours off on this form, Amir could threaten Eng- a tabloid newspaper sting operation. Amir’s opening over. But Amir struck land’s current top order. All three received fi ve-year bans from with his 14th ball back in fi rst-class “On that performance yes, he will for a number of years so there’s prob- in Taunton. England swept aside Sri Lanka 2-0 cricket and together with sports agent cricket on English soil in six years. cause problems for England. He got ably an extra bit of zip that he has that “I don’t think you’d expect anything in a three-match Test series and have Mazhar Majeed, jail terms. Left-hander Trescothick, on eight, Adam Hose with a good inswinger makes him hard work.” else,” said Trescothick. “We get on and an impressive home record. Amir, who served three months in could only edge a superb outswinger round the and Pete Trego got an Despite suggestions from England play the game and it is what it is.” “We have to respect England, how an English young off enders institute, that moved late and wicket-keeper absolute beauty. captain Alastair Cook that spectators Meanwhile, Pakistan opener Shan good they are... but we’re up for it,” in- has only featured in the game’s shorter Sarfraz Ahmed held an excellent diving “That bit of extra pace is the thing. might jeer Amir, there was nothing but Masood said of Amir: “He hasn’t lost sisted Masood. “We’re ready to come to formats since his return to Pakistan catch. Amir had another wicket when He hasn’t played international cricket polite applause as he came on to bowl it. If anything, he’s just got better.” England and give them a good match.”

SOMERSET vs PAKISTAN Morgan reveals ‘big concern’ over Trescothick defi es Bangladesh tour age for 47th fi rst-class ton to keep Pak at bay AFP Yasir Shah takes four and Azhar Ali hits unbeaten century but Trescothick ton London denies Pakistan victory as their England tour opener against Somerset ends in a draw oin Morgan said yesterday he had a “big concern” regarding safety and Esecurity on England’s tour of Bangla- AFP desh later this year. Taunton, United Kingdom England’s limited-overs captain also said it was possible that the England and Wales Cricket Board could ask for the matches to ormer England batsman be moved to a neutral venue. Marcus Trescothick rolled A terror attack in a restaurant in Dhaka, back the years as he defi ed the capital of Bangladesh, on Friday left 18 Pakistan with fi ghting cen- foreigners dead. England are scheduled to turyF (106) for Somerset at Taunton arrive in Bangladesh on September 30 to yesterday. play two Tests and three one-day interna- Somerset, set an unlikely 468 for tionals. Morgan said England players would victory, survived some anxious mo- wait for the latest security information ments before ending at 258 for 8 in from the ECB before making decisions their second innings to force a draw. about their safety. It was Trescothick’s 47th fi rst- “I think that could be feasible if that class hundred for Somerset—the came to it,” said Morgan, when asked at a same number as West Indies great press conference in Southampton, ahead Vivian Richards managed for the of yesterday’s lone international south-west county. The left-handed against Sri Lanka. opener put on 98 with Tim Rouse, “I think it (security) is quite a big who made a gutsy 41 on his Somerset concern at the moment,” added Morgan. fi rst-class debut after being hit on the “We’ve always left the big decisions to the head by a Mohamed Amir bouncer. ECB. They write reports, send guys out to Somerset had collapsed to 128 in see if it’s safe then come back to the play- their fi rst innings, with left-arm pace- ers to see if they’re happy or unhappy.” man Amir taking an impressive three The former Ireland batsman added: “But for 36. However, a sunny day at Taun- certainly it’s a concern at the moment.” ton meant there was now less swing in Responding to the terror attacks, an ECB the air for Pakistan’s pacemen. spokesman hinted at a possible cancel- The 40-year-old Trescothick was lation of the Bangladesh tour by saying caught behind off Amir for just eight that “if the environment is not acceptably in the fi rst innings. safe or the right measures not in place, we However, he drove both Amir and would take the appropriate steps”. Sohail Khan down the ground yester- Australia have previously cancelled day with some pleasant strokes. both a tour of Bangladesh and withdrawn But Adam Hose was out off what their Under-19 team out of the junior World became the last ball before lunch Cup there on security grounds. when he was lbw to leg-spinner Yasir Bangladesh Cricket Board president Shah for eight after he missed a ball Nazmul Hassan said he understood English that went straight on. concerns but added he hoped that the situ- Rouse had made 14 when he ducked ation would improve before the scheduled into a sharp Amir short ball, turning start of the tour. his head away in the process, and was “The reaction that England gave was struck on the helmet. very normal,” Hassan said after his return A concerned Amir raised his hand over the weekend from the International in apology and Rouse, who changed Cricket Council’s annual conference in helmets, needed at least fi ve minutes . of on-fi eld treatment before resum- “We would have done the same... you ing his innings. But soon afterwards would probably notice that sports did not he gamely cover-drove Amir for four. stop even after the terror attack in Paris. Trescothick drove Shah for six over Sporting activities went ahead at their own long-on and then struck two bound- pace. We have still three months left before aries in as many balls off Khan. the England series. But Rouse fell in similar fashion “I don’t think the current situation will to Hose when he was lbw to Shah’s persist that long in Bangladesh. It’s tough quicker ball. ager Dom Bess for two huge sixes over The only cloud on Pakistan’s hori- kistan camp about what this tour may cious skills. Bowlers so gifted appear to say which place is safe. Even Eng- Earlier, Azhar Ali made an un- long-on in successive balls. zon concerns the form of their cap- bring, they have hired a PR consult- rarely; can only be en- land may not be a safe place after three beaten century in Pakistan’s second As soon as Ali had gone to his cen- tain. After his second-ball duck in the ant from the world of politics to ac- hanced by his return. months.” innings of 236 for four declared. Ali tury, in 168 balls including 12 fours fi rst innings, Misbah-ul-Haq fell for company them and largely protect Brief scores Hassan said the authorities would (101 not out) and Asad Shafi q (69 not and two sixes, Pakistan captain Mis- 19 in the second innings and dropped Amir from the media. “strengthen security measures” during the out) shared a stand of 138 in 30 overs. bah-ul-Haq declared. a tough chance off Hildreth in the But, even if there are those who Pakistan 359-8 decl. (Younis Khan tour. “If we can ensure the highest security, Pakistan resumed yesterday’s third Amir took three wickets in 11 overs slips. It is too early to read much into begrudge Amir his chance to make 104, Asad Shafiq 80, Shan Masood sports will not stop in any country,” and fi nal day on 140 for four, with in Somerset’s meagre fi rst innings as such issues, but Misbah is asking a amends—those who, presumably, 62; P van Meekeren 3/78) and 236-4 he added. Ali 50 not out and Shafi q unbeaten he swung the ball late at sharp pace. great deal of himself to negate a skil- have never made a mistake in their decl. (Azhar Ali 101 not out, Asad Security concerns have been a major on 26. The pair were especially se- This game is about gaining the ful England bowling attack on their lives—there will surely be very few Shafiq 69 not out); Somerset 128 (So- issue in South Asia, starving Pakistan of vere on Somerset’s spinners with maximum amount of practice rather own surfaces at the age of 42. true cricket lovers who can remain hail Khan 3-26, Amir 3-36) and 258-8 international sports at home. the 31-year-old Ali hoisting teen- than the result. Such is the trepidation in the Pa- hard-hearted in the face of such pre- (M Trescothick 106; Yasir Shah 4-107) Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, July 6, 2016 CYCLING

TOUR DE FRANCE/ STAGE 4 Another photo-fi nish sees German Kittel claim stage ‘I have seen the photo finish, it could have been diff erent there was really only a hair in it. That’s nothing after 237km. At 150 metres from the end I thought my veins would burst! I had no idea I’d won, I knew it was so tight that I was just concentrating on throwing myself to the line. I’m 1.90m tall, I have long arms and that made the diff erence in the end!’

AFP Limoges, France

or the second day in a row, a photo-fi nish decided the stage winner at the Tour de France, with coming up trumpsF yesterday. The burly German held off a charging Bryan Coquard to win by barely a cen- timetre, 24 hours after pipped Andre Greipel by no more than an inch. “I’ve seen the photo fi nish, it could have been diff erent there was re- ally only a hair in it,” said Kittel. “That’s nothing after 237km. It was really tight, a tough sprint. “At 150-metres from the end I thought my veins would burst! I had no idea I’d won, I knew it was so tight that I was just concentrating on throwing myself to the line. I’m 1.90m tall, I have long arms and I think that made the dif- ference in the end!” It was a stunning fi nish again on a slight incline but heartbreak for Frenchman Coquard, who’d already ex- pressed his disappointment after com- ing third on Monday. Peter Sagan fi nished third to take a time bonus on the line and extend his overall lead over Julian Alaphilippe to 12sec, with Spain’s Alejandro Valverde third at 14sec. After the drab procession of Mon- day’s stage, the peloton returned to racing yesterday in the longest stage of the race at 237.5km. Although they rode 14km more than the previous day, they did it half an hour quicker. Kittel cut an emotional fi gure at the Etixx-Quickstep rider Marcel Kittel of Germany (second right) on his way to win the 237.5km fourth stage of the Tour de France, from Saumur to Limoges, yesterday. (Reuters) end as he achieved his fi rst Tour stage win since succeeding on the Champs had won the fi rst and third stages. Gougeard, Markel Irizar and Andreas and Naesen holding on the longest and Overall standings 4. André Greipel (GER/LOT) 87 Elysees in Paris in the fi nal stage of This time, though, Cavendish found Schillinger made a determined fi st of sharing a handshake once caught. Af- 5. Bryan Coquard (FRA/DEN) 83 the 2014 edition only to miss the race himself boxed in and was unable to fi ght it. The peloton was also much more ter that, Kittel and Coquard delivered a 1. Peter Sagan (SVK/TIN) 20h 03m 02s 6. Alexander Kristoff (NOR/KAT) 56 altogether last year. He and Coquard back to get in the victory mix, fi nishing switched on after what Sagan had de- most memorable fi nish. 2. Julian Alaphilippe (FRA/ETI) at 0:12 7. Edward Theuns (BEL/TRE) 45 touched shoulders twice in the fi nal eighth. “I was kind of in the wrong po- scribed as the “coff ee break” pace of the 3. Alejandro Valverde (ESP/MOV) 0:14 8. Michael Matthews (AUS/ORI) 38 sprint but their battle was fair and the sition. It was a bit sketchy, with 5km to previous day. 4. (FRA/GIA) 0:18 9. Julian Alaphilippe (FRA/ETI) 37 big Etixx rider held fi rm. go I nearly crashed and I lost my lead- The escapees had a lead of 6min 21sec Stage 4 results (Top 10) 5. Chris Froome (GBR/SKY) 0:18 10. Sondre Holst Enger (NOR/IAM) 34 On Monday, Cavendish had over- out,” said the 31-year-old Briton. at one point but the peloton reeled that 1. Marcel Kittel (GER/ETI) 5h 28m 30s 6. Roman Kreuziger (CZE/TIN) 0:18 hauled another broad-shouldered Ger- After Monday’s dour fare, there was in to just a couple of minutes, where 2. Bryan Coquard (FRA/DEN) at 0:00 7. (COL/MOV) 0:18 Team standings man in Greipel by launching his bike for a more determined breakaway with they held them, as if on the end of a 3. Peter Sagan (SVK/TIN) 0:00 8. Fabio Aru (ITA/AST) 0:18 1. Orica 43hrs 44min 30sec the line. And although Coquard tried four riders getting clear early on. They leash. Gougeard was the fi rst to falter on 4. Dylan Groenewegen (NED/LNL) 0:00 9. Michael Matthews (AUS/ORI) 0:18 2. Sky at 0:00 the same trick, Kittel just had the power also rode at a much faster pace than the a slight climb with just under 40km to 5. Alexander Kristoff (NOR/KAT) 0:00 10. Pierre Rolland (FRA/CAN) 0:18 3. Movistar 0:21 to resist. 34kph amble that saw Armindo Fon- go, leaving three out front and the lead 6. Sondre Holst Enger (NOR/IAM) 0:00 4. FDJ 0:22 Sagan, who won Sunday’s second seca spend 140km alone before being to the peloton now down to a minute. 7. Daniel McLay (GBR/FVC) 0:00 Class standings 5. Astana 0:26 stage, not only held onto his yellow jer- joined by Thomas Voeckler on Monday. Greipel’s Lotto team moved to the 8. Mark Cavendish (GBR/DDT) 0:00 1. Peter Sagan (SVK/TIN) 147 pts 6. Cannondale 0:34 sey but also took the sprinters’ green The pace was a full 7kph higher front of the chase and the end came 9. Samuel Dumoulin (FRA/ALM) 0:00 2. Mark Cavendish (GBR/DDT) 142 7. Katusha 0:35 points jersey back off Cavendish, who on average as Oliver Naesen, Alexis for the escapees with 7km left, Irizar 10. Simon Gerrans (AUS/ORI) 0:00 3. Marcel Kittel (GER/ETI) 137 8. AG2R La Mondiale 0:36

FOCUS Nibali fl ying under the radar Cavendish slams Froome’s Sky, says sprint fi nish losers are bitter AFP he earns so much money that guys want to Angers, France do well to emulate the money he earns. So they’re going to take risks to do that.” For Sagan it was a question of extend- peed king Mark Cavendish hit ing the neutralised zone to allow sprinters’ out at the Sky team of Tour de teams to race unmolested. incenzo Nibali began the Tour as an aide to Fabio Aru France champion Chris Froome for Currently, the fi nal three kilometres VTour de France tasked with since his programme is revolving making sprint fi nishes dangerous. are neutralised in the sense that someone helping Astana teammate Fabio around the Olympics. He’s ready SCavendish won Monday’s third stage of caught out in a crash or because of a me- Aru try to win on his debut but to help Aru, it’s normal.” the Tour in a paper-thin fi nish ahead of chanical problem after that point will not the fickle nature of the world’s The Olympic road race will be Andre Greipel. It was his 28th Tour stage be penalised with a loss of time, even if greatest cycling race means the held on August 6, 13 days after win and second in three days this year, they cross the line some time after the rest Italian could yet fight for the yel- the end of the Tour and riders putting him joint second on the all-time of the group they were riding in at the time low jersey. are expected to peak during the stage win list. But after yellow jersey hold- of their issue. The 2014 champion won this Tour and hold their form for Rio er Peter Sagan called on cycling bosses to “I want to ask the UCI (cycling’s world year’s Giro d’Italia and the Tour de Janeiro. change the rules to make sprint fi nishes governing body) if it’s possible to turn back is, in theory, a step towards the “He won the Giro so he starts safer, Cavendish said the problem was the rules of the last three kilometres, of Rio Olympics where Nibali will here without any pressure for teams like Froome’s Sky trying to mix it neutralising, that’s my question,” said Sa- be one of the favourites for road a result,” Slongo said. “He has with the sprinters’ squads. gan. “Because I think it will be better for gold. History suggests priori- no pressure from Astana. He is Sagan had said the rule neutralising the cycling, for our safety because there are a ties can change, however, and extremely serene, taking it day fi nal 3km needed to be changed to try to get lot of GC riders here who want to make a pledges to ride for a team leader by day, without any stress.” overall contenders out of the way. good performance. can be forgotten if glory looms. Freed from pressure, Nibali, “To be fair it’s not really the 3km rule “When there are climbs it’s purely the In 1986, Bernard Hinault said who was back to his flamboyant that causes it (the danger), it’s the mental- legs that decide who is good and who is he would work for La Vie Claire best during the Giro, could be ity. Like Sky were in there today,” said Cav- not good, but now for the fi rst stages they teammate Greg LeMond but dangerous. “Let’s see how it goes endish. “I think the mentality has changed (the overall contenders) want to ride with broke his promise. LeMond still in the Pyrenees, see where the a bit in that some guys—not all GC (overall the sprinters for the sprint. I don’t want to managed to become the first big guns are,” he said. contenders) riders—in the past they used fi ght with sprinters and also GC riders. In American to win the Tour. If Nibali, who is nine seconds to go to the back. the last 3km it’s very dangerous, everybody More recently, Alberto Con- behind the main favourites, “Then it kind of evolved that splits hap- is taking risks because they don’t want to be tador and Lance Armstrong in including Froome and Aru, after pened so they didn’t want to be caught be- dropped from the sprinters because if there 2009, and Bradley Wiggins and four stages, does not lose too hind the split. But now some riders actively is a gap or a fl at tyre it takes 6sec or 30sec.” Chris Froome in 2012, had rocky much time between Friday and want to be ahead of the split. It’s not about “The diff erence between guys who relations on the Tour. Sunday, anything could be pos- not wanting to be caught out, they want to win and those who lose is that the guys Paolo Slongo, Nibali’s coach, sible as the Italian is set to peak be up there and hope there’s a split to get a who win understand it,” added the Team would not rule out any scenario towards the end of the race. few seconds. I don’t think it’s to do with the Dimension Data sprinter. “They have re- for his rider. “His goals this sea- “He’s not at 100% yet because course, it’s a rider thing,” he added. spect for each other and are the fi rst to son were the Giro d’Italia and the of the Giro d’Italia. He should be Froome had been right up with the berto Contador, fi nished 77th and didn’t lose Cavendish agreed, although he said it congratulate them (for winning). But the Olympics but a rider like him, on at his best towards the end of sprinters until the last few hundred me- any time. After winning Sunday’s second was potential earnings that were the driving guys who never win anything—a lot of the Tour, is a bit free in the open- the Tour,” said Slongo. “We don’t tres where he faded to 22nd overall on the stage, Sagan had criticised riders in general force. “I saw the comments Pete made yes- guys who don’t win feel bitterness to the ing stages,” Slongo said before know how far he can go.” The stage, with his main overall rival Quintana for not racing in a safe way. He said that they terday, he’s got a point,” said Cavendish. “But guys who win. Instead of appreciating it, the start of yesterday’s fourth 26-year-old Aru, who won the stuck to his back wheel. “don’t care about their life” and that they the problem is the stakes are so high in cy- they resent it and kind of take their frus- stage in Saumur. “He starts the 2015 Vuelta, might find out soon. Yet another of the main favourites, Al- “lose the brain” causing “stupid crashes”. cling, there’s more money and unfortunately trations out in that way (by taking risks).” Gulf Times Wednesday, July 6, 2016 7 SPORT

NBA SPOTLIGHT Spanish star Gasol poised to join Spurs, Durant confi rms Duncan to retire?

AFP Los Angeles

aul Gasol has agreed Golden State move to join San Antonio on a two-year deal worth $30mn as Spurs leg- ‘It really pains me to know that I will disappoint so many people with this choice’ endP Tim Duncan mulled retire- ment, reports said Monday. Spanish star Gasol has ver- AFP to tempt him to Oakland. bally agreed to join San Anto- Los Angeles News of Durant’s eagerly an- nio after spending the past two ticipated move sent social me- seasons with the Chicago Bulls. dia into meltdown as fans and The former Los Angeles klahoma City Thunder commentators digested a deal Lakers player averaged a dou- superstar Kevin Du- that makes Golden State an even ble-double (16.5 points, 11.0 rant confi rmed Mon- more fearsome outfi t. rebounds) per game last season day he is joining the “Fans of the other 29 teams but was unable to lead the Bulls GoldenO State Warriors in a stun- that aren’t Golden State — let’s into the playoff s. ning move that sent shockwaves have a scared group hug,” broad- Gasol, 35, became a free rippling through the NBA. caster Bill Simmons wrote on agent on June 27 and is ex- season MVP, widely regarded Durant, the most coveted NBA Twitter. pected to double his current as one of the best power for- free agent, announced his move Other Twitter users mean- salary in Chicago. His move to wards ever to play the game, on the Players’ Tribune website while retweeted a six-year-old San Antonio completes a long has hinted to offi cials and after what he described as the posting by Durant in 2010 when courtship which began in 2014, team-mates that he plans to “most challenging few weeks in he apparently took aim at star when he almost signed for the retire imminently. my professional life.” players joining stronger teams in team before heading to Chicago Duncan, 40, was the number The 27-year-old forward said the pursuit of NBA titles. instead. one in pick in the 1997 draft he was joining the Warriors to “Now everybody wanna play News of Gasol’s expected and is one of only two play- enhance his growth as a player for the heat and the Lakers? Let’s move came as a report in San ers to win an NBA title in three and a person. go back to being competitive and Antonio surfaced suggesting diff erent decades. Duncan has “With this in mind, I have de- going at these peoples!,” Durant that long-serving power for- averaged 19 points and 10.8 cided that I am going to join the wrote shortly after LeBron James ward Duncan was preparing to rebounds per game during his Golden State Warriors,” Durant had joined Miami. call time on his 19-year career. career. Last season’s campaign wrote. Durant meanwhile acknowl- The three-time NBA Finals was disrupted by a knee injury Reports said Durant is expect- edged his decision would likely MVP and two-time regular- and he played in only 61 games. ed to sign a two-year, $54.3 mn dismay Thunder fans. (48.7 mn euros) contract with a “It really pains me to know player option after the second that I will disappoint so many year. people with this choice, but I be- Seth Curry agrees to a two-year, The capture of Durant, a sev- lieve I am doing what I feel is the en-time NBA All Star and the right thing at this point in my life $6mn contract with the Mavs NBA’s MVP in 2014, is a huge and my playing career,” he said. A player whose last name and 45 percent from beyond boost for Golden State as they is Curry will be joining the the 3-point arc. build towards next season. Other Twitter users mean- Dallas Mavericks tomorrow. Curry, who turns 26 on Au- The Warriors are still licking while retweeted a six-year- Unfortunately for Mavs fans, gust 23, played one game for their wounds after slumping to a old posting by Durant in it’s not the Curry they would Memphis in the 2013-’14 sea- 4-3 NBA fi nals defeat to LeBron 2010 when he apparently rather have. Seth Curry son, one game for Cleveland James and the Cleveland Cava- took aim at star players has agreed Monday to sign in the ’13-’14 campaign and liers last month. joining stronger teams in a two-year, $6 million free two games for Phoenix in the The 6ft 9in (2.06-meter) Du- the pursuit of NBA titles. agent contract with the Mavs. ’14-’15 season before flourish- rant took the Thunder to the Yahoo Sports was the first to ing with the Kings. brink of victory against Golden “I will miss Oklahoma City, report the agreement. While taking advantage of State in the Western Conference and the role I have had in build- Curry is the younger brother the increase in the NBA’s fi nals last season, inspiring his ing this remarkable team. I will of Golden State Warriors’ salary cap, Curry opted-out team to a 3-1 series lead before forever cherish the relationships superstar guard Stephen of the final year of a two-year, the Warriors fought back to win within the organization — the Curry, who won the NBA’s $4mn contract with the 4-3. friends and teammates that I Most Valuable Player the past Kings so he could become Durant had held talks with no went to war with on the court for two seasons. a restricted free agent. The fewer than six teams over the nine years, and all the fans and A 6-2, 185-pound shooting Kings ultimately made him past week, including his current people of the community.” guard, Curry has bounced an unrestricted free agent club Oklahoma City, the Warri- However, Oklahoma City around with four diff erent after their backcourt became ors, the Boston Celtics, the Los chief general manager Sam Pres- NBA teams and two D-League crowded when they agreed Angeles Clippers, the San Anto- ti urged Thunder fans to respect squads since entering the to sign Garrett Temple to a nio Spurs and Miami Heat. Durant’s decision, hailing the NBA undrafted out of Duke in three-year, $24mn free agent star suggesting that it was al- 2013. Curry has played just 48 contract. Record-breaking roster ways likely he would leave even- NBA games and has averages However, the prospect of join- tually. of 6.3 points and 1.4 assists, ing up with the Warriors and “None of us are under the illu- and also shot 44.8 percent their record-breaking roster sion that Kevin Durant would be from the field and 45.1 per- proved irresistible for Durant, here forever,” Presti said. cent from 3-point range. who has career averages of 27.4 “Kevin has earned the right to From the Mavs’ standpoint, points and seven rebounds per make a decision that’s best for at least they’re getting Curry game. him. We have to be truly grate- while he’s coming off his On Friday, Durant met with ful for what he represented for most impressive season. In NBA MVP Stephen Curry, the Thunder and also for the city 48 games for the Sacramento shooting guard Klay Thomp- and the community. Kings this past year, Curry av- son and coach Steve Kerr as the “He gave back with his time. eraged 6.8 points in only 15.7 Warriors, who compiled the He gave back with his dollars. minutes per game and shot best regular season record in And we need to recognize that. 45.5 percent from the field history this year at 73-9, sought We need to honor that.”

FOCUS Wade seeking more than Heat off er of $40mn

By Ira Winderman agency contract that will pay $22mn next be predicated on a lot of factors. He’s a Sun Sentinel season. Beyond that, guard Goran Dragic lifer. What he’s done in this city over the will earn $15.9mn next season, still due last 13 years is irreplaceable. So, we $70mn over the next four seasons. want to do the right thing. There’s no he latest NBA free-agency stale- Wade, who turns 35 in January, indi- doubt.” mate with guard Dwyane Wade cated at season’s end he did not believe According to an NBA agent not in- comes in the wake of a two-year, he was close to his career fi nish line, volved in the Wade negotiations, among $40mn off er from the Miami coming off one of his most productive the options for the Heat to resolve the Heat.T and healthiest seasons in years. impasse would be a third year on a Wade The Heat off er, which remains on the “I hope that everything is quiet and contract with contingencies, possibly table, was confi rmed to the Sun Sentinel works out the way I want it to,” he said partially guaranteed or a deal that locks by a party close to the negotiations. after the Heat were eliminated in Game 7 in some or all of the 2018-19 salary based According to the party, the Heat off er, of the Eastern Conference semi-fi nals by on Wade performance either this coming which is for a fl at $20mn for each of the the Toronto Raptors. “But I have no con- season or the following season. two seasons, would allow Wade to opt trol over that, as much as people might Wade previously had been linked to out after the fi rst of the two seasons and think. free-agent interest from the New York re-enter free agency next summer, when “It’s a lot of moving parts in free agen- Knicks and Chicago Bulls. The Knicks, the NBA salary cap is again expected to cy. I’m not worried about it. I’m not get- however, instead utilised cap space on make another quantum leap. ting into how many years I want to play. Charlotte Hornets free-agent guard Wade earned $20mn on a one-year Just because I sign a contract doesn’t Courtney Lee, while the Bulls utilised deal this past season, but salaries for mean it’s going to be it, that I’m going their cap space on Sacramento Kings commensurate players have exceeded to play that contract out. The contract I free-agent guard Rajon Rondo. that fi gure since Friday’s start of NBA look to sign this summer is something I The Milwaukee Bucks and Denver free agency. hope I’m comfortable with.” Nuggets continue to remain linked to in- Wade apparently is seeking an addi- What is on the table apparently is not terest in Wade, although it is not known tional year at such a rate or higher from the case. if any outside team would be willing to the Heat. The Heat have slow-played Wade’s go to three years at $60mn total, with the A $20mn salary next season would put free agency, fi rst locking up Whiteside NBA salary cap again expected to fl atten him third on the Heat’s payroll and the and then awaiting a free-agency deci- after 2017 free agency. two-year off er would put him fourth in sion from Kevin Durant, who on Monday Wade has been at similar crossroads terms of committed total salary going committed to the Golden State Warriors. with the Heat in free agency in 2010, forward. Heat President Pat Riley went into the when he was linked to negotiations with Forward Chris Bosh, who remains off season stressing more than fi nancial his hometown Chicago Bulls before hopeful of returning from the blood remuneration when it came to Wade. signing with the Heat along with Bosh clots that have sidelined him over the “Compensation to a player,” Riley said, and LeBron James, as well as last sum- second half of each of the past two sea- “is not just a way to get paid and live your mer, when a threat of outside negotia- sons, is due $23.7mn next season, with life. Compensation to a player is about tions was present. $76 million due over the next three sea- recognition and respect and a place. And Free-agent contracts cannot be fi nal- sons. Center Hassan Whiteside on Fri- so, we know where he belongs. ised until tomorrow, at the end of the day agreed to a four-year, $98mn free- “When we get down and discuss it will NBA’s signing moratorium period. Gulf Times 8 Wednesday, July 6, 2016 SPORT

MLB RUGBY Wallabies winger Tomane confi rms Padres prevail over Montpellier move Reuters fi ve tries in his 17 tests, hinted that he might return to Aus- tralia after his spell in France and resume his international ustralia winger Joe career. Diamondbacks Tomane confi rmed “I have given my all to Aus- yesterday he will tralian Rugby and have been be leaving the ACT lucky enough to represent the ‘You can make excuses for it, but we just have to play better’ BrumbiesA for French club Wallabies at the Rugby World Montpellier at the end of the Cup, which is every young season, robbing the Wallabies player’s dream growing up,” he By Dennis Lin of one of their best fi nishers. said. The San Diego Union-Tribune San Diego Padres relief pitcher Luis Perdomo pitches Tomane has played 17 tests “I hope that the possibility during the fi rst inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks since making the switch from of returning to the Wallabies at Chase Field. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Rugby league in 2012 and will in the future is something that uis Perdomo’s start not be eligible for interna- could happen, however right Monday, maybe his best tional Rugby under Australia’s now my focus is doing every- to date, was an encap- “Giteau Rule”, which demands thing I can to help the Brum- sulation of a season. In overseas-based players have at bies in 2016.” Lthe fi rst inning, the Rule 5 right- least 60 caps. Tomane missed the June test hander absorbed a number of “It was a very diffi cult deci- series against England with a blows that could have fl attened sion to make, but I feel the time knee injury but hopes to re- him. He kept going. In the end, is right to challenge myself and turn this weekend against the he gave his team all that could play Rugby in a diff erent envi- Auckland Blues as the Brum- have been asked. ronment,” he said in a message bies look to lock up the Aus- The San Diego Padres con- of thanks to the Brumbies fans. tralian conference and a place verted a chance to win, sup- “It is also an opportunity to in the Super Rugby playoff s. porting Perdomo with a pair of live abroad and do what I love “Joe was having a great year home runs. The second of those, most, play Rugby.” before he injured his knee,” a two-run laser by Derek Nor- The New Zealand-born said Brumbies coach Stephen ris, pushed the visitors ahead 26-year-old will link up with Larkham. “Whilst we are dis- for good in an 8-4 victory over former Brumbies coach Jake appointed he will be leaving the Arizona Diamondbacks at White as well as former team- the club, there are limitations Chase Field. Perdomo, at one mates Nic White and Jesse to what we are currently able point, retired nine consecutive Mogg in the south of France. to do if players garner overseas Diamondbacks. He shook off Tomane, who has scored interest.” a fi rst inning in which Arizona scored two runs, one unearned. The rookie wound up going six innings, tying his career-high. The two earned runs against him were a career-low in a start. The Padres (36-47) opened their fi nal road trip before the All-Star break with an all- around showing. They can send the D-backs (37-48) to the cellar with another victory Tuesday. D-backs starter Archie Bra- dley paid for his imprecision in a pair of leadoff at-bats. In the fourth, Yangervis Solarte fol- lowed Matt Kemp’s single by drilling a 440-foot, game-tying blast into the right-fi eld seats. In the sixth, Wil Myers drew a walk and scored on Kemp’s ringing double to left-center. Norris, three batters later, saw the count go to 3-0 and, then, a green light. The catcher pounced on a fastball. A two-run shot hurtled over the left-fi eld fence. Solarte and Norris’ home runs were not insignifi cant events. On a last-place club, both players are trade candidates. Solarte is hitting.426 (20-for- 47) with six extra-base hits over must stay on the 25-man roster tie the score on Kemp’s sixth-in- three of those four games. now, that’s what it comes down his last 14 games. Norris com- all season or be off ered back to ning double. The Padres bullpen Norris lashed a run-scor- to,” D-backs manager Chip Hale plemented what has been stand- St. Louis, his old organisation – navigated a hairy juncture in the ing double in the eighth. Ryan said. “You can make excuses for out defense with his 11th homer has incentivised patience. Mon- seventh. After a leadoff single, Schimpf’s ensuing double, his it, but we just have to play better.” of the season. day’s performance reduced his Padres manager Andy Green second of the game, pushed the RESULTS The good vibes were damp- ERA from 8.49 to 7.96. summoned left-hander Brad lead to 7-3. A third consecutive Milwaukee 1 Washington 0 ened in the bottom of the eighth, Neither fi gure refl ects Perdo- Hand. Hand yielded a single hit, Alexei Ramirez’s RBI single, Tampa Bay 4 LA Angels 2 when Norris was hit on the left mo’s recent comfort level. before striking out Paul Gold- made it 8-3. In the bottom of the Boston 12 Texas 5 elbow by the follow-through of a Against the D-backs, he induced schmidt and Lamb, the D-backs’ inning, Drury ripped a double off Chicago W Sox 8 Yankees 2 Brandon Drury swing. A trainer 12 groundouts and one fl yout. two most dangerous hitters. Paul Clemens, who was making Oakland 3 Minnesota 1 attended to Norris for a few min- He allowed nine hits, includ- Newly promoted fi reballer Jose his Padres debut. The tail end Houston 2 Seattle 1 utes before the catcher exited the ing two of the infi eld variety, Dominguez entered. Welington of the swing compounded the Pittsburgh 4 St. Louis 2 game. He was replaced by Chris- and no walks. He struck out fi ve Castillo lined out to end the in- damage, catching Norris on the Chicago Cubs 10 Cincinnati 4 tian Bethancourt. There was no and threw 66 of 91 pitches for ning. elbow. Norris stood, wincing, Philadelphia 8 Atlanta 2 immediate word on the severity strikes. A reminder that Perdo- Perdomo moved to 3-3 on the as assistant trainer Paul Navarro San Francisco 3 Colorado 1 of Norris’ injury. mo still has much to learn: With season. In four starts since he tested the elbow. He then walked NY Mets 8 Miami 6 Perdomo, who turned 23 in two outs in the fi fth, Jake Lamb offi cially joined the rotation, he off the fi eld, presumably for fur- Toronto 6 Kansas City 2 May, is a surer bet in the Pa- redirected an 0-2 slider for an has yielded 14 earned runs over ther Cleveland 5 Detroit 3 dres’ future plans. His status as a RBI triple. The D-backs took a 23 innings. The Padres, despite examination. “We’re just not LA Dodgers 7 Baltimore 5 Rule 5 draft selection – Perdomo 3-2 lead. The Padres would re- Perdomo’s growing pains, won playing winning baseball right San Diego 8 Arizona 4

FOCUS St. Louis Cardinals splurge in Latin America

By Derrick Goold Machado, though the deal is ex- the smallest limit in the game. hitter whose potential would be St. Louis Post-Dispatch pected to be fi nalised later in the St. Louis Cardinals’ Busch Stadium But the Cardinals eyed this July 2 as a leadoff hitter from the left yearlong signing period, which class and the coming year as the side. He’s 5-foot-9, nine inches opened on Saturday. time to be “very aggressive” with shorter than his countryman the n one of their most active “The group is heavier on posi- their spending because of at Cardinals also signed, Oviedo. and expensive days ever in tion players with off ensive up- least two factors. First, a handful The lanky righthander has a the international market, side,” wrote Moises Rodriguez in of teams – like the Cubs, Giants, fastball that sits in the 92-94 the Cardinals landed teens an e-mail. Rodriguez, the Car- and Dodgers – had their spend- mph range and can reach the up- Ifrom four diff erent Latin Ameri- dinals’ director of international ing curtailed this summer by per registers, at 96 mph. He’s got can countries, including Cuba, operations, was travelling back past bonuses, and that reduced a developing curve that needs to while obliterating their spending from Venezuela on Sunday. the number of high-bidders. be tightened and some tutelage limit and inviting penalties. “We emphasised that category Second, the new labour agree- to improve his mechanics and And they’re not done yet. throughout the evaluation proc- ment being negotiated now thus consistency. The Cardinals agreed to con- ess. The group is physical and could alter the rules for interna- “Oviedo is someone we felt tracts with Cuban pitcher Jo- athletic. We’re thrilled with the tional spending. The known bo- strongly about as a group and han Oviedo, 18, and Venezuelan present hitting ability of guys nuses for Oviedo, Garcia, Soler wanted to be aggressive with,” outfi elder Victor Garcia, 16, that like Carlos Soto (of Mexico) and and Soto ($400,000) added up to Rodriguez said. “At only 18, he’s individually included bonuses Victor Garcia and the ceiling of $5.25 million already. The Cardi- physically impressive and moves as large as the team has ever kids like (Carlos) Soler.” nals will pay a dollar-for-dollar well for his size. ... (He) should awarded. Oviedo, a 6-foot-6, Soler, a 16-year-old outfi elder tax on the $3.2 million overage. quickly benefi t from our pitch- 220-pound righthander received from the Dominican Republic, They have exceeded the 15 per- ing coaches. He has a chance to a bonus of $1.9mn, and slugger received a bonus of $600,000, cent penalty, meaning that their be an impact starter at the ma- Garcia followed with $1.5mn, the according to a source. He has one future spending could be limited jor-league level.” same bonus Carlos Martinez re- of the best outfi eld arms in the to $300,000 bonuses or less in Oviedo, catcher Soto, right- ceived as a teen six years ago. class and is considered a project the next two summers, unless the handed pitcher Enmaneul Solano The team also announced off ensively. According to Base- rules change. The Cardinals have (Dominican), and outfi elder Di- deals for 11 other international ball America, he’s the 35th-best and his peers for several years. A Taveras ($145,000), Edmundo ($3.1 million) never reached the an agreement with Machado for omedes Del Rio have been as- amateurs. Nine of the 13 signed prospect available during this year ago, the Cardinals signed Sosa ($425,000), Alex Reyes same status, and Mateo had his a bonus around $2 million. MLB. signed to the Cardinals’ Domini- were position players, an area signing period. pitcher Alvaro Seijas out of Ven- ($950,000), and a handful of contract voided before putting com reported that its expected can Summer League team. The where the Cardinals have not Garcia was ranked No. 10 by the ezuela at a $762,500 bonus. other top or recent prospects for on cleats.The Cardinals entered value is $2.3mn. That will cost other 10 players signed Saturday usually spent as freely. magazine. The Venezuelan out- That has been the sweet less than a million. this market with a $2,027,300 the Cardinals an additional $2.3 have been signed to 2017 minor- The Cardinals also have an fi elder has the best power of the spot for the Cardinals when it Meanwhile, big-bonus ad- bonus limit. Major League Base- million in tax. league deals.This amateur sign- agreement in place with an- class, according to scouts, and the comes to international spend- ditions like Roberto De La Cruz ball sets the limit based on the Machado, 16, is considered an ing period continues through other outfi elder, Cuba’s Jonatan Cardinals have been scouting him ing. The Cardinals signed Oscar ($1.1 million) and Wagner Mateo standings, and the Cardinals had elite runner and a contact-type next June. Gulf Times Wednesday, July 6, 2016 9 SPORT

CYCLING FOCUS South Korean archers target Sprinter Meares on more gold in Rio Reuters end before a domestic league Seoul game in order to get used to crowd noise. Such has been the success i Bo-bae is under no of Korean archers that their track for more glory illusions about the coaches are in high demand pressure she will face around the world, which has in Rio as she bids to gone some way to levelling the ‘There was a big adjustment as a new influx of younger girls came through’ Kbecome the fi rst archer to de- playing fi eld. fend an individual Olympic “It’s true that the average title but after shooting more level of technique and skills than 500 arrows a day in train- have gone up but Asian athletes ing the South Korean is ready are still head and shoulders for the challenge. above everyone else,” said Ki. Archery has been a gold mine for Korea at the Olympics with ABSENT STARS? the country’s athletes hogging While Korea are confi dent of 19 of the 36 titles up for grabs getting golds in archery as well since the sport returned in its as shooting, judo and taek- modern format in 1972. wondo, two of their biggest The strong performance of stars may not be on the plane the archery team, who have to Rio. won at least two golds at each Olympic vault champion Games since 1988, has helped Yang Hak-seon missed two the Koreans to punch above selection trials due to a torn their weight in the overall Achilles but a gymnastics of- medals table. fi cial said yesterday they With that success has come would hold three more trials expectation, Ki told Reuters. in the hope that he would be fi t “Previous Korean archery enough to try to claim a place teams have left a legacy with on their fi ve-man team. their great achievements and The situation regarding for many South Koreans when swimmer Park Tae-hwan re- they think of the Olympics they mains in the hands of the Court remember how successful our of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). archers have been,” she said. Park, the fi rst Korean to win “So there is a bit of pressure an Olympic swimming medal weighing on our shoulders in when he won the 400 metres that regard. But we have to freestyle gold in Beijing, com- think positive and the only way pleted an 18-month doping to overcome that pressure is ban imposed by world govern- through training.” ing body FINA in March. Training is something the However, as per Korea Ol- Koreans take very seriously. ympic Committee regulations, Still sporting nasty sun- he was then subject to an ad- burn from a practice session ditional three-year ban from on Mount Halla on Korea’s Jeju the day the FINA suspension Island, Ki loosed arrows with expired. frightening accuracy at the tar- Park took his case to the CAS get as torrential rain hammered and fi led an injunction with down at the Taeneung national a local court, which ruled he training centre in Seoul. should be eligible for selection. If Ki was distracted by the “The opinion from CAS has rain she did not show it. Cam- not come out yet,” national eras fl ashed, telephones rang, Olympic Committee Presi- the media jostled for position dent Kim Jung-haeng said at a but still she did not fl inch. news conference. “We would Hardly surprising, though, need to respect both the ruling given that the team practised at from the Seoul Eastern District a baseball stadium last week- Court and also the CAS ruling.”

Nadal on track to compete at Rio: Doctor

Spanish tennis player Rafael rhythm,” Ruiz-Cotorro said. Nadal is recovering well from “But we have to be careful. He a left wrist injury and is on is strengthening the wrist and track to compete at the Ol- that is the most complicated ympics in Rio, his doctor said aspect and where we have to yesterday. be more careful.” The 14-time grand slam cham- Nadal, who won gold at the pion has been sidelined since Olympics in Beijing eight years Reuters matic London win over cham- of new, young bodies and old clinched her 11th world title with “I know what my goals were at May 27 after injuring a tendon. ago, is eager to compete in Rio Melbourne pion sprinter coaching heads which has made victory in the keirin at Paris last the start of the campaign, where He was forced to pull out of after missing the 2012 Games signalled the end of one era, she it very diffi cult in the years be- year but has not had it all her way my analysis and re-analysis have the French Open after two in London due to a knee is determined to see off the next tween London and Rio. since. put me at this point in time. rounds and miss Wimbledon. injury. he turn of the Olympic wave of challengers. “That said, that’s what keeps German , who “And I also trust my coach “We are all working towards cycle has ushered in a “I feel nerves and I think that’s me interested and intrigued in won the team sprint gold at the Gary West and his support team getting him ready for the new generation of riders normal,” the 11-times world the sport. It’s never stagnant and London Olympics, took her kei- and the plan we have going into Olympics,” Angel Ruiz-Cotorro, plotting to overthrow champion told Reuters in an in- changes with the strengths and rin title at the world champion- Rio to be at my best for that a doctor at the Spanish Tennis Ttrack queen , but terview yesterday. weaknesses that come through ships in the same velodrome in competition.” Federation, told AS newspaper. the seasoned Australian is con- “I think it reiterates to me (the with new girls and the older March, and the Australian failed Meares has set goals for Rio, Ruiz-Cotorro, who has treated fi dent of being in top gear to de- Olympics) are still important coaching philosophies that have to make the podium in the in- where she will compete in the Nadal since he was 14, is opti- fend her sprint title at the Rio de even after all these years. Two- to adapt and evolve with each dividual sprint won by ’s keirin, the individual sprint and mistic the world number four Janeiro Games. thirds of my life I’ve dedicated to Olympic cycle.” Zhong Tianshi. the team sprint with Stephanie will be ready for Rio. The double Olympic champi- being a cyclist. Meares, however, has a vet- Morton. But as in London four “I see him strong,” he said. “He on was confi rmed in Australia’s “I’ve had a lot of time to deal SOLACE IN ROUTINE eran’s sense of her body’s capa- years ago, she is keeping them to is following the normal recov- formidable track team for Rio with the shift of Victoria Pend- The interval between the bilities and is confi dent she will herself. ery schedule and meeting the yesterday and will become only leton and another eight or nine Games has been an emotional be in peak form when she rolls “My coach and my manager timeframe we set.” the third woman to compete in women who have retired since roller-coaster for the Austral- into the Barra Velodrome next are the only ones that know Nadal, 30, is expected to the velodrome at four Olympics. London. ian, whose marriage to her high- month. them,” she said. return to play at the Toronto Having medalled at Athens, “There was a big adjustment school sweetheart fell apart in “I know I’ve got a big task “That keeps me in some con- Masters at the end of July Beijing and London, Meares will as a new infl ux of younger girls 2014. ahead of me and I know where trol of analysing what my results before travelling to Brazil. saddle up a month before her came through and many are still She was devastated by the I’m tracking,” said Meares, are like in Rio because I under- “He is working very well and 33rd birthday, her place in the coached by the same coaches break-up and contemplated re- who won her fi rst Olympic stand there’s the pressure and the sooner he can recover and pantheon of Olympic cycling who worked with the previous tiring from the sport before fi nd- gold at the age of 20 in the now- expectation for me to perform start to compete the better greats already assured. generation. ing solace in the familiar routines defunct 500 metres time trial at and deliver like I always have it will be for him to get into a But four years after her dra- “So there is a combination of training and competition. She Athens. done.”

FORMUAL ONE British GP podium will stay a step too far, says Button

Reuters the paddock rumour mill, the 2009 achieved my main target in Formula London world champion said he would not One,” he said. be treating the weekend as a fare- McLaren, a great team struggling well. to get back on top after their switch enson Button has not stood “There is no point thinking it to Honda engines in 2015, have not on the British Grand Prix might be my last because then I have won a race since 2012 and it has been podium in 16 attempts and, to go through those emotions again more than two years since they cel- heading into what could be if it isn’t my last,” he said. ebrated a podium fi nish. hisJ last chance on Sunday, accepts it “In a way it would be a shame if The former champions are im- may never happen. I didn’t think of it as my last, and it proving, however, and Button start- The McLaren Formula One driv- was my last. But then again I don’t ed third and fi nished sixth in Austria er’s best result on home soil is fourth want to go into the weekend think- last weekend. — in 2004, 2010 and 2014. ing ‘Oh, it is going to be my last’ — “I don’t know if it is going to be “We won’t be fi ghting for a po- and get to the end of the year and my last British Grand Prix... all I dium. There is another British guy think ‘I want to do another’.” know is that I will do my best with (Mercedes’s triple champion Lewis Button has 15 wins to his credit what I have available, and that is all Hamilton) that will be, but I won’t and has won in , Spa and I can do in front of the home crowd,” have that opportunity which is a Suzuka among the classic circuits. he said. shame,” the 36-year-old Button told He also has the biggest prize of all, “They have been so supportive reporters. Whether he will get an- won with Brawn GP, to console him. since the start of my career in For- other chance, only time will tell. “Would I rather have a world mula One up until now, through the Out of contract at the end of the championship than win the British good years and the bad years, they season, but linked to Williams on Grand Prix? Yes, of course. So, I have have always been fantastic.” McLaren Honda’s Jenson Button drives during the Formula One Grand Prix of Austria at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria. (AFP) Gulf Times 10 Wednesday, July 6, 2016 ATHLETICS

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Stepanova ‘very Montano rails against welcome’ at ‘corrupt’ IAAF aft er European champs: Hansen

AFP “We are happy to see her here. Amsterdam She is treated like every other missing Rio spot athlete, there’s nothing special. “She’s very welcome be- oping cheat-turned- cause she’s done a great job for 800m runner believes she has been denied at least three medals by dope cheats whistle blower Yuliya the sport,” Hansen said of the Stepanova is “very 30-year-old who has been vili- AFP welcome” at the Euro- fi ed in her native Russia, with peanD Athletics Championships, critics also rounding on the IAAF Moscow track and fi eld’s continental chief for seemingly rewarding a former insisted yesterday. doping cheat. distraught Alysia Montano Stepanova received a two-year The IAAF banned the Russian called her career “a farce” and ban from the IAAF (International athletics federation from inter- branded the International As- Association of Athletics Federa- national competition in Novem- sociation of Athletics Federa- tions) in 2013 after abnormali- ber, but 68 athletes have formally tionsA (IAAF) “a corrupt institution” after ties showed up in her biological requested to be allowed to com- crashing out of the US Olympic trials on passport. pete at the Rio Olympics under Monday. But in 2014, she and her hus- special criteria. The 800 metres runner, who believes band Vitaly Stepanov, who had Hansen hinted he would be she has been denied at least three global worked at the Russian Anti- more than willing to accept medals by dope cheats, had hoped this Doping Agency (RUSADA), ap- Russian athletes in Amsterdam would be the year she fi nally made the peared in a German television should they be cleared by the Olympic podium. documentary as whistle blowers IAAF. But with less than 100 metres to go in of widespread doping fraud in “The IAAF doping review Monday’s fi nal she became entangled the Russian sports system. board are still working very with Brenda Martinez and fell to the Following the startling revela- hard,” he said. track, eventually fi nishing dead last. tions, which have since plunged “If they clear some athletes That ended any hope of her going to Rio the IAAF into its worst-ever cri- tonight or tomorrow morning, since only the top three fi nishers in the sis and seen Russia banned, the we’re very happy to see them at cut-throat trials advance. Stepanovs left Moscow for Ger- the European championships. Tears fl owed from the 30-year-old de- many and have since settled in “Clean athletes are always fending US champion as she spoke to re- the United States. welcome.” porters and the agony only intensifi ed af- The IAAF Doping Review But France’s Renelle Lamotte, ter she was asked why this had been such Board unanimously accepted the leading European woman an emotional year. Stepanova’s application, “seek- over 800m this season with a “I’m missing three medals in like eight ing exceptional eligibility, to best of 1:58.01, said that she did years of my life as a professional runner,” compete in international com- not agree with Stepanova’s re- said Montano, who believes she lost med- petition as a neutral athlete”. turn to competition. als because of cheating rivals at the 2011 She will now make her con- “I am against the fact that ath- and 2013 world championships. troversial return to competition letes who once doped can come Fifth at the 2012 Olympics, Mon- at the Euros in Amsterdam, with back. Whether they denounced tano has since seen both winner Mariya round one of the women’s 800m the system or not, it’s an injus- Savinova and bronze medallist Ekaterina scheduled for today. tice,” she said. Poistogova, both Russians, accused of “She has been cleared by the French federation president doping by a World Anti-Doping Agency IAAF taskforce to be able to com- and IAAF Council member (WADA) report. pete if she was cleared by the an- Bernard Amsalem, however, “My entire professional career has ti-doping review board,” Europe- praised Stepanova as a “cou- been a farce basically,” said the emotional an Athletics president Svein Arne rageous woman who dared to Montano. “Now everyone is talking about Hansen told reporters yesterday. speak out”. the Russians not running in the Olympics “She’s a symbol to the clean “She’s a symbol of the fi ght but they are missing the whole point that athletes. With her brave state- against doping, something to the IAAF is a corrupt institution which is ments and brave actions, she’s which athletics is totally com- still running the game for us professional really going out there to protect mitted, and an example other athletes.” our sport. sports would do well to follow.” The IAAF was not immediately avail- able for comment. The former president of the sport’s global governing body, Lamine Diack, has been accused by French investigators of receiving over 1mn euros ($1.09mn) in Alysia Montano reacts after falling in the women’s 800m event during the 2016 US Olympic Team Trials at Hayward Field in Eugene, bribes to cover up positive doping tests. Oregon, on Monday. (USA TODAY Sports) Diack’s son Papa Massata Diack, a former IAAF consultant also embroiled in athletes to be banned from the Rio Games to cope with as she chased a spot in Rio, show have been using us all along. That’s the case, has denied any involvement in after a WADA report unearthed what it Montano said. why it was an emotional struggle for me,” bribery or corruption and says his father alleged was evidence of systematic state- “Trying not to take that anger with me Montano said. is also innocent. sponsored doping. to today and still try to be in the sport, “And I made it all the way to the fi nal, The IAAF has also called for Russian Emotionally, it had all been diffi cult knowing that who’s been running the with all that emotional baggage.”

Russia ban a positive step against doping, says Adams

Double Olympic champion Valerie A number of Russian athletes have 2012 Olympics after Belarusian Nadzeya rzhanenko of Russia, subsequently con- Adams feels the suspension on Russian appealed against the International Ostapchuk tested positive for a perform- victed of doping at those Games) and athletes from the Rio Games is a positive Association of Athletics Federations ance enhancing drug, said there should so I missed out on three extra throws step towards eradicating doping and the (IAAF) ban, and the Court of Arbitration be no way back for tainted athletes. (granted to the top eight competitors),” New Zealand shot putter has called for a for Sport (CAS) will step in to settle the “Once a cheater always a cheater. Kick Adams said. “In 2005 Nadzeya Ostap- life ban on drug cheats. dispute between the country, its ath- them out and don’t let them back in. chuk got the world championship gold Russia’s track and field team have been letes and the governing body of world Zero tolerance,” she said. ahead of me but then, eight years later, suspended from international competi- athletics. Adams has thrice suff ered heartbreak they re-tested her results and she got tion since November following a World “It will definitely be a positive step in her career, after finishing behind caught for doping. Same thing hap- Anti-Doping Agency report and are because if you don’t stop it at the top it athletes who have subsequently been pened in 2012 at the London Olympics.” Italian sports agents questioned barred from next month’s Games as a will just keep going,” Adams, 31, told the found out as drug cheats. Should she win a gold in Rio, Adams will punishment for the nation’s systematic Guardian in an interview. “In 2004, at the Athens Olympics, I become the first woman to win the shot in Kenya over doping doping problems. Adams, who was awarded gold at the finished ninth (behind winner Irina Ko- put event at three successive Olympics. AFP Nairobi BOTTOMLINE enya police yesterday questioned two Italian sports agents over doping allegations that continue to plague Kthe east African nation just a month before the start of the Rio Olympics. Russia says 68 athletes asked to compete in Rio Gabriele Rosa and his son Federico, both from the Rosa and Associati agency, manage several top Kenyan athletes including AFP three-time Boston marathon champion Rita Jeptoo, who was Russian pole vaulter Yelena Moscow banned for two years in 2015 after testing positive for the blood Isinbayeva is on the list drug EPO, and three-time world 1500m champion Asbel Kiprop. The father and son pair were reportedly arrested in Eldoret on ussia’s athletics federation yes- Friday during the Kenyan team selection trials for next month’s terday published a list of the 68 Olympics and had their passports confiscated. Their interroga- athletes who have formally re- tion began on Monday. quested to be allowed to com- “We have had them with us for investigations which are ongo- peteR at the Rio Olympics following a de- ing”, said Hamisi Masa, head of the anti-narcotics unit at the cision to suspend the track and fi eld team. Criminal Investigation Department. The athletes have “met the criteria” to The two Italians have managed Kenyan athletes since the late participate and were approved by Rus- 1980s and been under suspicion since 2012 when the first of sian coaches, said the federation (ARAF), their stable of athletes was banned for doping. which last month had its suspension over Their arrest comes two weeks after President Uhuru Kenyatta allegations of institutionalised and per- signed a new law criminalising doping in the country in order to vasive doping upheld by athletics’ ruling avoid an Olympics ban threatened against its runners. body the IAAF. The law stipulates a fine of $30,000 (27,000 euros) or a three- “Every athlete has sent in an individ- year prison term for anyone found guilty of dispensing illegal or ual request to participate in the Olympic tional compliance with anti-doping re- they are not tainted by the Russian sys- whistleblowing athlete Yuliya Stepanova banned drugs to the athletes. Games, for confi rmation by the IAAF,” quirements. tem” as the IAAF demands before the last year, who said athletics offi cials sup- Rosa and Associati, which was running two training camps in the ARAF said. But it left the door ajar to some com- Games begin is not entirely clear. ply banned substances to competitors in Rift Valley towns of Eldoret and Kapsabet, was one of two foreign The list includes track and fi eld stars petitors not tainted by doping to compete The World Anti-Doping Association exchange for a share of athletes’ fees. agencies suspended for six months last year by Athletics Kenya, like world champion hurdler Sergey as neutrals in Rio. (WADA) argues that tough measures are Stepanova last Friday was declared eli- pending investigations into allegations of doping which led to Shubenkov, long-jumper Darya Klishi- The International Olympic Committee key to send a message that doping is un- gible to compete under a neutral fl ag. over 40 Kenyan athletes being suspended. na, and pole vault tsarina Yelena Isin- went a step further and said athletes who acceptable, while another investigation The Court of Arbitration for Sport Rosa and Associati also manages several other African athletes, bayeva. pass an individual test by the IAAF can of Russian doping is still ongoing, with a (CAS) said Monday it will decide whether including Botswana’s former world 400m champion Amantle The IAAF’s ruling on June 17 said that compete under their nation’s fl ag. report to be published next week. to overturn the ban against Russia’s ath- Monsho, who was also suspended after testing positive for drugs Russia’s athletics federation was up to The process through which athletes The WADA investigations were letics programme by July 21, two weeks in 2014. two years away from returning to opera- can “clearly and convincingly show that launched following allegations revealed by before the start of the Rio Games. Gulf Times Wednesday, July 6, 2016 11 SPORT

TENNIS FOCUS Berdych blasts What? No drama? duelling in the dusk

Serene Murray AFP said he had been literally left in London the dark. “I was asking for it. Especially when I’ve been playing for last omas Berdych fi red a couple of days consecutively. verbal volley at Wimble- I just felt like there would be a don after being forced to chance to fi nish. But there was making it look easy play on into the twilight not really a clear answer why Tgloom then return yesterday to not,” he said. book his place in the quarter- ‘I have to stay focused on that one (Tsonga). Take it one match at a time. I know fi nals. PLAYER POWER CALL The Czech 10th seed was Two years ago, Berdych was in- everyone goes, Oh, that’s boring. But that’s what you do as a professional’ locked at 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (8), 6-7 volved in the latest-ever fi nish (9) with compatriot Jiri Vesely on Wimbledon’s outside courts, Reuters when their fourth round tie on when he lost to Marin Cilic at London Court Three was fi nally sus- 9:38pm on June 27, 2014 — a full pended on Monday. 16 minutes after sunset. Play fi nished a few minutes af- Berdych called for more player o far so serene for Andy Murray as ter the 9:19pm sunset in London power in deciding whether to the bastion of British tennis closes and conditions were gloomy even carry on in fading light. in on a second Wimbledon title. before going into the lengthy tie- “We should have defi nitely The 29-year-old’s path to a break. All other matches had some word in that because we are Sninth successive All England Club quar- been called off for the evening. the ones who are on the court. ter-fi nal, in which he faces Jo-Wilfried The pair returned for the fi - We are the ones that are per- Tsonga, has been about as stressful as nal set yesterday, which 2010 forming,” he said. walking the dog on Wimbledon Com- Wimbledon runner-up Berdych “The decisions are made by mon. won 6-3, claiming victory on his people who are sitting at the Three years ago Murray also cruised eighth match point. chair. That’s a bit unfair in this into the last eight but, with the hosts des- “I can’t really see. That’s the sense.” perate for a fi rst men’s champion for 77 fact. I was just asking to stop. However, “when you feel that years, near hysteria broke out as the Scot When I ask, I’ve been told, ‘It’s you can’t really change any deci- edged towards glory. too late, you have to fi nish that’,” sion, it’s really pointless to try”. On the way he gave the British pub- he said of the fourth set tie break. Berdych next faces France’s lic palpitations, dropping two sets in the “The referee tells you that the 22-year-old Lucas Pouille, the quarter-fi nal against Spain’s Fernando Hawk-Eye is not in operation any- 32nd seed, in today’s second Verdasco. There were sweaty palms too more. I don’t know why actually match on Court One. when fi ery Pole Jerzy Janowicz snatched we have to play in those situations It is only the second time the the fi rst set of their semi-fi nal. when a very accurate machine is 30-year-old has reached the last Euphoric scenes greeted Murray’s vic- not able to operate. I don’t think eight since his run to the fi nal six tory over Novak Djokovic in the 2013 fi nal the human eye can see better than years ago. — a redemptive moment for British ten- that. That’s another fact. “I practiced with him one day nis. “I experienced this for a third before the tournament started. Since then Djokovic has been Mur- time in a row. So I’m actually That’s the only time we’ve spent ray’s nemesis and the world number one getting used to it.” on the court together. was supposed to be standing in his way Berdych asked if the match “There are plenty of things to this year before the Serbian top seed’s could be moved under the lights see about his game. That’s what shock defeat by Sam Querrey on Satur- of the Centre Court roof, as has I’m going to do and prepare with day left the 29-year-old Scot as odds on happened before with matches my team,” said the Czech number favourite. suspended due to darkness. Play one. can continue on Centre Court “Hopefully everything goes PERFECT RECORD until 11:00pm. well, I can make the match done Murray has won 12 out of 12 sets so far, But the frustrated Berdych — and fi nally have a day off .” playing superbly. There was even a sense of anti-cli- max in Monday’s third round when he dispatched Australia’s enfant terrible Britain’s Andy Murray celebrates his win over Australia’s Nick Kyrgios in their Wimbledon fourth round match on Monday. (AFP) Nick Kyrgios with ease — after all Brit- ish fans have a masochistic fascination for drama when it comes to cheering home hopes. Murray named in Britain’s Davis Cup squad Frenchman Tsonga has the potential to oblige, though, when he meets Murray for Andy Murray was named yesterday in his shock defeat by Sam Querrey at tie — Britain’s least preferred surface. the 16th time in their careers today. holders Britain’s Davis Cup squad for Wimbledon on Saturday. Viktor Troicki, ranked 27 in the world, The last time they played at Wimble- their quarter-final away to Serbia this Murray, who is also committed to play- and Dusan Lajovic are likely to play don, in 2012, Murray won their semi-fi nal month. ing at the Rio Olympics, where he will singles for Serbia. in four sets but was reduced to tears in the The 29-year-old almost single-handedly be defending champion, is joined by “I am delighted to announce the team fi nal when Roger Federer claimed the title led his country to the title last year but his brother Jamie, the current world that will be heading to Belgrade for the for a seventh time. faces a tough schedule with the Bel- number one in doubles. quarter-final tie. We know what strength The eff ervescent Swiss could await grade clash taking place the week after Kyle Edmund, ranked 68, and Daniel the Serbian team have and understand again on Sunday, but Murray refuses to the Wimbledon final. Evans, who reached the third round at the scale of the challenge in front of us,” look beyond the next obstacle, fearing the World number two Murray is through Wimbledon and will rise into the 70s, to- Britain’s captain Leon Smith said. kind of stumble that ended Djokovic’s ti- to the last eight at Wimbledon and will gether with doubles specialist Dominic “In making himself available for the tie, tle defence. face Joe-Wilfried Tsonga today. Inglot complete the team. Andy has once again shown incredible “I’m fully aware of how diffi cult my next Serbia’s world number one Novak Serbia are yet to name their team but commitment to his country and his opponent is,” Murray said. “I know Tsonga Djokovic is highly unlikely to play in the even without Djokovic they have a proven Davis Cup record is second to is one of the best grass court players in the tie after saying he needed to rest after strong side and have chosen clay for the none.” world. If he plays well, and I’m not on my game, I can lose that match for sure. “I have to stay focused on that one. career to win the title, Tsonga rejected the Everything is a bonus for him, I think. If “To play in the quarter-fi nal, it’s a good Take it one match at a time. I know eve- notion the Scot might be feeling some ex- I was him, it would be a bonus, for sure.” feeling, because I had some bad days at ryone goes, Oh, that’s boring. But that’s tra pressure. For Tsonga, too, everything he achieves the start of the season,” said Tsonga, who what you do as a professional. My job’s to “To be honest, I don’t think he’s got a from here on in at this year’s tournament has two Tour victories against Murray but try to win my next match, it’s not think- lot of pressure. I mean, he won here al- is a bonus — having come back from two has lost eight consecutive sets against ing about anything else.” ready. He won the Olympic Games. He sets down to beat John Isner 19-17 in the him. won the US Open (2012). He won so many fi fth in the third round after surviving a “Two days ago I was fi ve all in the third NO PRESSURE tournaments. I think he’s feeling good in match point. set, 15-40 against me, two sets to love Despite twice grand slam champion Mur- his body today,” the 12th seed said. That is why the fl amboyant shot-mak- down, and I came back. I’m still alive. ray being favourite for the fi rst time in his “He doesn’t feel the pressure at all. er will be dangerous. “So everything can happen in tennis.”

SPOTLIGHT Qatar boxer Thulasi a step closer to Rio qualification Doubles pair stage protest aft er toilet break denied

Reuters went into a fi fth set. London “You have to take bad calls on the chin at some point. I went to the bathroom twice during the ablo Cuevas and play- match and obviously the fi fth ing partner Marcel set was a long one,” Marray told Granollers held a sit- British media. down protest at Wim- “I think you should be allowed bledonP after they received warn- an extra toilet break if it’s fi ve sets. ings for threatening to urinate in You have to respect the offi cials a can and blasting a ball out of regardless of whatever happened the court when the Uruguayan in the match. You can have a word was refused a toilet break. or two but they’re trying to do a job The 15th-seeded pair were and you have to respect that.” knocked out of the men’s dou- Shamasdin believed that bles tournament on Monday Tourte had crumbled under when they lost a controversial pressure after making several third round clash 6-3 4-6 6-4 early errors in the match. 3-6 14-12 to Jonny Marray and “I don’t think the chair umpire Adil Shamasdin. really had the match controlled. Britain’s Marray sympathised She made a few mistakes early on with his opponents, feeling the at both ends. We were all on her Qatar’s Thulasi Tharumalingam (right) in action against Italy’s Massimiliano Ballisai during their men’s 64kg light welter quarter-final at the APB-WSB Olympic situation could have been han- and she was defi nitely fl ustered,” Qualification Event in Vargas, Venezuela, on Monday. Tharumalingam won 3-0 to set up tomorrow’s semi-final bout with Argentina’s Carlos Aquino. A win in that bout will dled better by umpire Aurelie the 34-year-old Canadian said. send the Qatar boxer to 2016 Rio Olympic Games. Tourte, while calling for toilet “I don’t think she handled it breaks to be added if matches correctly.”

Wednesday, July 6, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

FOCUS Al-Attiyah aims for highest spot on Rio podium

By Sports Reporter help me with my rally driving, espe- “The athletes have to be very fi t be- Doha cially my focus.” cause shooting requires a lot of con- After realising his talent for skeet centration. And concentration can be shooting, which is a form of clay pigeon lost at any time if your physical fi tness atar’s sporting legend Nass- shooting where clay targets are fl ung is not up to par with your mental focus.” er al-Attiyah will join an into the air from two towers, al-Attiyah The many hours of training is all elite group of Olympians dreamed of representing Qatar at the worth it for al-Attiyah, who started his from around the world when Olympics. love aff air with shooting 22 years ago: “I heQ competes in his sixth consecutive “When I started shooting in 1994, it loved it because it was exciting and was Olympic Games in Rio in just over a was my dream to compete in the Olym- full of action.” month. The experienced skeet shooter pics,” he said. Al-Attiyah worked hard More than just an exciting sport, hopes to better his success at London towards his dream and went on to com- skeet shooting also requires a consider- 2012 where he won the bronze medal. pete in the next fi ve Olympic Games able amount of technique, as well as an The Rio 2016 Olympic Games will in Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000, Athens intimate relationship with the gun. mark the fi rst time the Olympics are 2004, (where he placed an agonising “I don’t like changing my gun – I’ve held in South America and will see over 4th), as well as Beijing 2008 and, of used the same one for seven years. The 10,000 athletes from 206 nations com- course, London 2012. weight has to stay the same or else it ef- pete in Rio de Janeiro. The best athletes It was in London that al-Attiyah fects how it sits on your cheek or shoul- from around the globe will challenge found what he describes as his biggest der and thus your aim.” al-Attiyah said, themselves to the absolute limit of their achievement after an intense shoot-off adding, “I consider the gun a part of me ability before a global TV audience of with his experienced and relentless op- in skeet shooting because if you aren’t 4.8 billion people. ponent, Valeriy Shomin from Russia to connected to your gun you will not Highly unusual for any athlete, al- claim the bronze medal. shoot 100 percent.” Attiyah has managed to fi nd massive “My experience in the London Ol- For Rio, Qatar’s shooting star is look- international success in two entirely ympics was very successful and com- ing forward to the conditions, “Rio may separate sporting fi elds. In addition to peting in London was a very special be more suitable for me because of the his skeet shooting success, he is also thing for me,” he said, adding, “Maybe high temperature and humidity – much one of the most accomplished rally it is because I visit London so often, es- like the weather in Qatar.” drivers in the history of the Middle East pecially during the summer, that I felt With his typical steely determina- with numerous medals in World Cham- like I was at home.” tion, al-Attiyah has his sights set at the pionships and the gruelling Dakar rally. Success however does not come “The hardest thing about shooting is schedule is very diffi cult as I wake up at Al-Attiyah describes why having very highest level. “My goal is to win “I started rally driving before I be- without sacrifi ces, and for al-Attiyah that it takes up a lot of time in your life. 5 am and do physical fi tness exercises the highest possible levels of fi tness is a medal,” he said, adding “I hope it is a gan shooting,” al-Attiyah said, adding, that means an arduous and extremely It requires between four to six hours followed by shooting practice at the a crucial part of achieving success in gold medal. I’m going to give it all that I “I wanted to do something that would demanding schedule. of training daily,” he said, adding, “My federation.” shooting. have – focus, hard work and dedication.”

TENNIS / WIMBLEDON Serena, Venus close in on all-Williams fi nal ‘They showed Venus’s score on court and I was like ‘yaaaay’. I want her to win so bad, but not in the final if I’m there’

AFP London

erena and Venus Williams closed in yesterday on a fi fth all-sister Wimbledon fi nal while beaten quarter-fi nalist DominikaS Cibulkova prepared to rush back to Slovakia to get ready for her wedding. Six-time champion Serena reached her 10th semi-fi nal at the All England Club with a 6-4, 6-4 win over Russia 21st seed Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. She goes on to face Russian world number 50 Elena Vesnina tomorrow for a place in the fi nal. Five-time champion Venus, seeded eight, enjoyed a 7-6 (5), 6-2 victory over Kazakhstan’s world number 96 Yaroslava Shvedova to reach her fi rst Wimbledon semi-fi nal in seven years. The 36-year-old will now face Ger- man fourth seed and Australian Open champion Angelique Kerber who reached her second Wimbledon semi- fi nal with a 7-5, 7-6 (2) win over Simona Halep, the fi fth seed from Romania. Vesnina made her fi rst semi-fi nal at a major, by seeing off bride-to-be Ci- bulkova, the Slovak 19th seed, 6-2, 6-2. “They showed Venus’s score on court and I was like ‘yaaaay’. I want her to win so bad, but not in the fi nal if I’m there,” said defending champion Serena, who took her Grand Slam match win record to 302 — four behind Martina Navrati- lova’s all-time mark. It is the 11th time that the sisters have advanced to the semi-fi nals of the same Grand Slam event.

SERENA FEELING ACE Serena took a 5-0 career lead over Rus- sian 21st seed Pavlyuchenkova into yesterday’s match, having not dropped a set to her opponent since their fi rst US player Serena Williams returns against Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova during their Wimbledon quarter-final at The All England Club yesterday. (AFP) meeting in 2010. But the match was decided in the ings with 28-year-old Kerber, who won slava on Saturday — the same day as the ninth game of both sets with Wil- their only meeting on grass in the 2012 women’s fi nal — and the 27-year-old liams carving out the only breaks of the Olympics at Wimbledon. was willing to postpone the ceremony match against Pavlyuchenkova, playing “I love playing the game. When you if she won her quarter-fi nal. in her fi rst Wimbledon quarter-fi nal. are winning matches it makes it that But 29-year-old Vesnina took ad- The American fi nished the match much sweeter,” the German said. vantage of a distracted display from with an 11th ace. “You can’t always have these big mo- Cibulkova to become the fi fth unseeded “It was good. I am excited to be able ments. I guess if you are Serena Wil- woman to reach the All England Club to win and get through, it felt really liams it happens a lot, but for Venus semi-fi nals since the Grand Slams good,” said Serena, who is bidding to Williams this is an awesome day.” switched to 32 seeds in 2001. win a record-equalling Open era 22nd “Serena is one of the greatest. I al- Grand Slam title. CIBULKOVA HEADING FOR ways watch her matches,” said Vesnina On the potential of an all-Williams HER WEDDING who dropped out of the top 100 last fi nal, Serena refused to get too far ahead The fi rst set tiebreak was key for Venus year. “I have to go on to the court with of herself even though she has a 4-0 yesterday as she over-turned a 2/5 defi - all my heart and take my chances.” winning record over Vesnina. cit before Shvedova’s game fell apart in “We don’t really talk too much about the second set. RESULTS it but we are playing doubles later so we Kerber now has 33 match wins in Women (Quarter-finals) are just happy to be in the semi-fi nals,” 2016, joint-best with Cibulkova. 1-Serena Williams (USA) bt 21-Anastasia she said. “I have had a great year so far. I think Pavlyuchenkova (RUS) 6-4, 6-4 Venus is the oldest women’s semi- I am playing my best tennis. Hopefully Elena Vesnina (RUS) bt 19-Dominika fi nalist since Martina Navratilova in I can play a few more matches here,” she Cibulkova (SVK) 6-2, 6-2 1994. Venus, who won the last of her said. 4-Angelique Kerber (GER) bt 5-Simona seven Grand Slam titles at Wimbledon The 28-year-old Kerber, who also Halep (ROM) 7-5, 7-6 (2) in 2008, is back in the last-four of a made the semi-fi nals in 2012, came out 8-Venus Williams (USA) bt Yaroslava Germany’s Angelique Kerber Grand Slam for the fi rst time since the on top in a big-hitting battle with Ha- Shvedova (KAZ) 7-6 (5), 6-2 celebrates her win over Romania’s 2010 US Open. lep, who was a semi-fi nalist in 2014. Men (Round IV) Simona Halep during their Wimbledon The eight-time Wimbledon fi nal- Cibulkova is due to marry fi ance 10-Tomas Berdych (CZE) bt Jiri Vesely quarter-final yesterday. (AFP) ist trails 3-2 in her fi ve career meet- Miso Navara in her hometown of Brati- (CZE) 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (8), 6-7 (9), 6-3