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SPOTLIGHT Qatar beat Syria to clinch fi rst points in WC qualifi ers Al-Haydos penalty in the 37th minute brought to an end to the run of three consecutive Group A defeats for Qatar

Qatar’s coach Jorge Fossati (right) and his Syrian counterpart Ayman al-Hakeem greet each other before the start of the match.

By Joe Koraith Youngster Akram Afi f, Ibrahim Majed Doha (made captain for this match) and Ali Asadalla were brought in while Rodrigo Tabata, Abdelkarim Hassan and Ahmed e have lift off ! Qatar fi nal- Mohamed al-Sayed were on the bench. ly scored the fi rst points The home team knew that they would of their 2018 World Cup have to deal with the stubborn defence qualifying campaign when that Syria would put up, but it was the Wthey defeated Syria 1-0 yesterday. Syrians who started the match with an Midfi elder Hassan al-Haydous attacking intent. scored from the spot in the 37th minute They were constantly able to cre- and what a valuable goal that proved to ate pressure on the Qatar defence. The Qatar’s Hassan al-Haydos (centre) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the 2018 Russia World Cup qualifying match against Syria at the be for the hosts. hosts were not being allowed any time Al Sadd stadium last night. PICTURES: Noushad Thekkayil Before the start of the match, Qa- to settle down and this seemed to dis- tar, having played three matches, were rupt their rhythm. Fossati’s boys were weak and was easily cleared. scored one in the 85th minute. Mah- languishing at the bottom of the stand- looking sketchy and unlikely to score a The second half began with the Qa- moud Almawas let loose a curler that RESULTS ings. A close 2-3 loss to 10-man South goal. tar team again on the attack. They were tipped in towards the top right corner Korea had not done much to change the But then in the 35th minute, Qatar’s creating chances but were also missing but al-Sheeb produced an acrobatic Group A: Uzbekistan 2 (Bikmaev 50, Group B: Australia 1 (Jedinak 52-pen) opinion that Qatar’s chances of quali- workhorse al-Haydous danced his way close ones. Afi f provided a well-timed one-handed save to deny Syria and Shukurov 85) China 0; Iran 1 (S. Azmoun Japan 1 (Haraguchi 5) fying for the Russia World Cup were into the Syria box where he was fouled through pass for Soria but the striker keep Qatar’s qualifying hopes alive. 25) South Korea 0; Qatar 1 (Al-Haydos Iraq 4 (Abdulraheem 7, 25, 87, 90+4) fading fast. by Zaher Medane. The referee had no missed again. And in the end Qatar, despite missing 37) Syria 0 Thailand 0 They had to deliver against Syria – a hesitation in pointing to the spot and In the 68th minute al-Haydous at- those clear chances, were able to hold team that had defeated China in their the midfi elder fi red the ball in, into the tempted a lob after being released by out for a win and happily grab the three previous match. And while it wasn’t the bottom left hand corner to give his team Asadalla with a perfectly-placed pass points. This win will defi nitely give a lot POINTS TABLE best of performances from Qatar, they the lead. but the midfi elder’s lob was palmed off of confi dence to Fossati’s boys. They were able to ride on that penalty strike The goal relieved the pressure that by Syria keeper Ibrahim Alma. play China next on November 15 and GROUP A GROUP B from al-Haydous and give the support- the players seemed to be playing with Qatar enjoyed a brief period of domi- with Syria playing table toppers Iran, Teams P W D L PTS Teams P W D L PTS ers at the Al Sadd stadium a lot to cheer and the home team started to play with nance but the gritty Syrians team were the Maroons have a great chance to IRAN 4 3 1 0 10 AUSTRALIA 4 2 2 0 8 about. more confi dence. Sebastian Soria had a threatening with regular counter at- move to fourth in the standings. UZBEKISTAN 4 3 0 1 9 JAPAN 4 2 1 1 7 This win moves Qatar to fi fth in great chance to double the lead towards tacks. And they dialed up the pressure The screams of delight that Fos- KOREA 4 2 1 1 7 SAUDI ARABIA 3 2 1 0 7 the table, after China lost 0-3 to Uz- the end of the fi rst half. Syria’s Ahmad towards the end of the match. sati let out as the fi nal whistle sounded, SYRIA 4 1 1 2 4 UAE 3 2 0 1 6 bekistan earlier in the day. Qatar coach al-Saleh failed to clear the ball and The home team’s defence were tested showed how much this win meant to QATAR 4 1 0 3 3 IRAQ 4 1 0 3 3 Jorge Fossati made three changes to his Soria was able to rob the defender and to the hilt as the visitors tried desper- him and his team. Now to ride this mo- CHINA 4 0 1 3 1 THAILAND 4 0 0 4 0 starting line-up for yesterday’s match. shoot towards the goal but it was too ately to fi nd the equaliser. And they also mentum and register more wins.

ASIAN QUALIFIERS ROUND-UP Uzbekistan outclass China to take charge of group

AFP with only a point to show for their eff orts so far. Uzbekistan could have boosted their tally in The frustrated Koreans couldn’t even man- Sainsbury gave away possession and Keisuke Doha The Central Asians, who have never featured injury time only for Jaloliddin Masharipov’s age a decent shot at goal and the result leaves Honda released Haraguchi to advance on the in the quadrennial sporting showpiece, raised shot to ricochet off the post, but the hosts were them with plenty of food for thought before Australian goal. Haraguchi slid the ball through their game in the second half and opened their not complaining as they established themselves tackling Uzbekistan next month. the legs of the advancing Matt Ryan to give the hina’s bid to qualify for the 2018 World account through Bikmaev in the 50th minute, as genuine contenders for a Russia 2018 spot. Earlier in Melbourne, Australia came from Blue Samurai the shock early lead. But Australia Cup suff ered a crushing blow after they the Lokomotiv Tashkent forward blasting the Iran claimed a sombre 1-0 win over South behind through a Mile Jedinak penalty to grab grabbed a lifeline shortly after the resumption were outclassed 2-0 by Uzbekistan in a ball home after playmaker Eldor Shomurodov Korea to jump to the top of Group A. Iran’s de- a 1-1 draw against Japan to remain unbeaten when Haraguchi brought down Tomi Juric for crucial Group A Asian qualifi er yester- had split the Chinese defence with a brilliant fensive minded approach in the qualifi ers has in Group B. The Blue Samurai rocked the Soc- a penalty which skipper Jedinak rammed home day.C The Chinese, who have invested heavily in pass. The Uzbeks dictated the game thereon worked wonders and they have not conceded a ceroos with a fi fth-minute goal from midfi elder to equalise. Also in Group B, Iraq notched their football and also plan to bid for the 2030 World and came close to scoring again moments lat- single goal in four matches. Genki Haraguchi but skipper Jedinak retrieved a fi rst win, 4-0 over Thailand, with Mohannad Cup, came apart in Tashkent with Uzbekistan er, but Igor Sergeev’s shot crashed back off the After a couple of unsuccessful forays by Iran, point in a tense game with his spot kick. Abdulraheem stealing the show by scoring all scoring twice in the second half through Marat post. But with fi ve minutes remaining, the hosts the Korean goal fell in the 25th minute when “We regrouped at halftime and we were told four goals. Abdulraheem struck twice in each Bikaev and Otabek Shukurov. wrapped up their much deserved three points Ramin Rezaein found himself left with space to have a reaction. There looked like only one half against the hapless Thais but having suf- Yesterday’s victory put the Uzbeks in com- after substitute Shukurov’s speculative eff ort behind defender Oh Jae-suk before fi ring in a team winning the game, it was unfortunate we fered defeats against Japan, Australia and Saudi mand of their group with three wins from four took a lucky defl ection off Zhang Chengdong low ball towards Sardar Azmoun and the Rostov didn’t get that second goal,” said Jedinak. Arabia earlier, the Iraqis will need a miracle to matches, while China languish in fi fth place and rolled into the net. forward scored with his fi rst-time eff ort. Japan struck early after defender Trent make it to Russia. Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, October 12, 2016 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT PREMIER LEAGUE Wijnaldum a FIFA chief Infantino’s major doubt for Red’s United clash grand World Cup Andy Hunter and Nathaniel Clyne also suf- The Guardian fered injuries at Swansea but will be fi t for Monday.

eorginio Wijnaldum is DE BRUYNE HAS CHANCE OF expected to discover to- PLAYING FOR MANCHESTER day the full extent of the CITY AGAINST EVERTON plan under scrutiny hamstring injury that Kevin De Bruyne has an outside Ghas left him a major doubt for chance of being available for Liverpool’s match against Man- Manchester City’s league meet- chester United on Monday. ing with Everton on Saturday, The FIFA Council is meeting tomorrow and Friday in Zurich The midfi elder limped out of with his injured hamstring heal- Holland’s World Cup qualifying ing quicker than expected. defeat by France in Amsterdam The Belgian forward will un- on Monday with a problem in his dergo a late fi tness test ahead right hamstring. of the visit of Ronald Koeman’s He will be assessed by the side to the Etihad Stadium and club’s medical department upon he could also be fi t for the trip his return to Melwood before be- to Barcelona on Wednesday next ing sent for a scan, but is already week for City’s third Champi- considered doubtful for the ons League group match of the Premier League encounter with season. De Bruyne’s recovery is United at Anfi eld. so encouraging that he was able Wijnaldum has been ever- to take a break last weekend in present for Jurgen Klopp’s team Marbella. in the Premier League this season The Belgian, 25, sustained the and settled impressively in cen- injury towards the end of City’s tral midfi eld following his £25mn 3-1 victory at Swansea City on summer transfer from Newcastle 24 September, with Pep Guar- United. diola hailing the player as second Emre Can would be in line to in class only to Lionel Messi. De make his fi rst league start of the Bruyne’s importance to the team campaign should the 25-year- is underlined by City’s fortunes old fail to recover in time for the in the two matches they have visit of José Mourinho’s side, and played in his enforced absence – Klopp also has fi tness concerns the 3-3 draw with Celtic, which over Adam Lallana before fi nal- ended their consecutive run of ising his midfi eld plans. wins at 10, and the fi rst defeat of The in-form Lallana suff ered a the season, at Tottenham Hot- groin injury in the win at Swan- spur. sea City that forced him to miss Guardiola is determined that England’s World Cup qualifi - City bounce back from that re- ers against Malta and Slovenia. verse when they host Everton at He has been receiving intensive the weekend, with his side’s lead treatment at Melwood during the in the Premier League having international break in a bid to be been cut to one point from Tot- fi t for United but needs monitor- tenham and two from Arsenal ing on a daily basis. Dejan Lovren and Liverpool.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino (top right) and top golfer Rory McIlroy (centre) watched Northern Ireland’s World Cup qualifier against San Marino last week in Belfast. (Reuters)

Reuters increase the World Cup to 40 teams, an ing to the FAs,” said Alexandra Wrage, an whether or not European countries will Zurich idea opposed by Europe’s biggest clubs. anti-corruption expert who is president be able to bid. At present, continental He went even further last week, how- of TRACE International which special- confederations must wait eight years be- ever, when he suggested adding another ises in anti-bribery compliance. tween hosting World Cups but FIFA could IFA president Gianni Infantino’s eight teams. “Some of that is to be expected, but it decide to increase this to 12. controversial proposal for a 48- Infantino’s plan is for 32 teams to take shouldn’t be at the expense of the game, With Russia hosting the tournament in team tournament will come under part in a preliminary knockout round the clubs, the players and the fans,” she 2018, that would mean Europe having to the microscope when the deci- played in the host country, with the 16 told Reuters. wait until 2030 before bidding again. The sionF makers at football’s governing body winners progressing to the group stage, Infantino must also convince the hosts were originally due to be chosen discuss the bidding process for the 2026 where they would join 16 more teams who Council that it is a good idea to send next May but the whole process was put World Cup this week. would get byes. teams across the world to possibly play on hold last year because of the corrup- The FIFA Council, which meets tomor- The tournament would then continue just one game before returning home. It tion scandal that led to Blatter’s downfall. row and Friday in Zurich, still has to de- as it does now with a 32-team group stage could also be hard to sell to broadcasters That date will now mark only the end of cide on basic questions such as the size followed by knockout rounds. French and there is the contentious issue of how the consultation phase and the fi nal deci- of the tournament and which continents sports paper L’Equipe described the idea to decide which teams get byes. sion will be made in May 2020. FIFA was are eligible. A decision was due this week as ridiculous and Germany coach Joachim “The whole sudden-death approach forced to reform its bidding process af- under the timeline drawn up in May but Loew said it would dilute the sporting for the early rounds seems a bit soul- ter the 2018 and 2022 tournaments were Infantino has now said that discussions strength of the tournament. destroying to me. The key, though, is awarded to Russia and Qatar at the same will continue until January. Critics said the move could also be in- whether all key stakeholders will be con- vote in 2010. The number of participating teams is terpreted as yielding to the 211 national sulted or whether Infantino will just ram That vote is the subject of a criminal the biggest issue. Infantino, elected in football federations which elect the FIFA this through for reasons of his own,” said investigation by Swiss authorities and Midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum (left) limped out of the Netherland’s February to replace the disgraced Sepp president. “He certainly has the example Wrage. Infantino has said that this time round World Cup qualifying defeat by France in Amsterdam on Monday Blatter, promised during his campaign to of Blatter holding on to power by pander- FIFA must also eff ectively confi rm the process must be “bullet proof.” night with a problem in his right hamstring. (AFP)

ROUND-UP Algeria sack coach Rajevac aft er Cameroon draw: Report

Agencies will pay for the refurbishment, due to begin next and Espanyol of La Liga and Valladolid, Mal- Algiers year, in its entirety in return for the stadium car- lorca, Zaragoza and Elche of the second tier — rying the company’s name, although it will still responsible for over 70% of that sum. also carry the name Bernabeu. Neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona owe any lgeria sacked national team coach Mi- The new stadium will be furnished with a re- tax to the government. “Thanks to a clean up in lovan Rajevac yesterday, just over three tractable roof without losing any of the 81,000- professional football the debt has been progres- months after he took charge, according seat capacity. The agreement comes around a sively reduced, as has global debt in the game,” to Algerian public television. “The Al- year after the Spanish courts blocked an original La Liga’s internal aff airs director Javier Gomez gerianA Football Federation have decided to ami- 2014 project plan, which included the enlarging said. cably terminate the contract of Milovan Raje- of the stadium plot onto public land in order to The debtors have all been subject to La Liga vac,” the station reported, with the Serb having build a hotel and shopping centre. safeguard measures and had negotiated gradual only replaced Christian Gourcuff in June. The shopping centre will now be included repayments with the tax authorities. La Liga Algeria drew 1-1 at home to Cameroon on within the existing stadium while the hotel is no predicts the debt control measures now in place Sunday in the opening round of matches in the more than a “possibility”, according to Perez. will see the debt reduced to 50mn euros by 2020. fi nal phase of African 2018 World Cup qualifi ers. The original stadium was inaugurated in 1947 Assistant coaches Nabil Neghiz and Yazid Man- before being renamed in 1955 after iconic former ROBERTO, CILLESSEN ADD TO souri are expected to replace the 62-year-old president Santiago Bernabeu, who died in 1978. BARCELONA INJURY LIST Rajevac on an interim basis until a successor is It has already undergone several makeovers Full-back Sergi Roberto and goalkeeper Jasper appointed. since the 1982 World Cup in Spain. Cillessen have returned to Barcelona from in- FAF president Mohamed Raouraoua met with Real’s great domestic rivals Barcelona have ternational duty injured, the Spanish champi- Rajevac yesterday to sort out his future after also announced plans to remodel their Camp ons said on Monday. several players reportedly called for his depar- Nou ground. That too will cost 400mn euros Dutch back-up keeper Cillessen is expected ture and blamed the Serb for Sunday’s draw in and will include a retractable roof while also in- to be out for three weeks after suff ering an ankle Blida. Algeria reached the last 16 of the 2014 creasing the capacity from 99,000 to 105,000. ligament injury while Roberto also faces a spell World Cup but face a diffi cult task in qualifying Algeria’s coach Milovan Rajevac looks on during the World Cup qualifying match against Real’s cross-city rivals Atletico Madrid will on the sidelines with a groin injury picked up for the tournament in Russia after being drawn Cameroon at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida last week. (AFP) for their part move to a new 73,000-seat sta- during training with Spain. Barcelona were al- alongside Nigeria, Cameroon and Zambia. Only dium in the summer of 2017, leaving behind the ready without several fi rst-team players. the group winners qualify for the fi nals. for change within the organisation, in particu- an Abu Dhabi investor. 55,000-capacity Vicente Calderon stadium, Full-back Jordi Alba, who was injured in lar calling for concrete requirements on women The project, less ambitious than the previous which is set to be demolished and turned into a Spain’s 1-1 draw with Italy last week, is expected FIFA APPOINTS FIRST EVER CHIEF in leadership positions at FIFA,” FIFA said in a version blocked by the courts, includes the crea- park. to be out for 10 days while Croatia midfi elder WOMEN’S FOOTBALL OFFICER statement. Bareman, a former player on the Sa- tion of a 6,000m2 public garden alongside the Ivan Rakitic (Achilles tendon) and French de- Global football governing body FIFA has ap- moan women’s national team and deputy secre- stadium, will be fi nanced by Abu Dhabi-based SPANISH CLUBS RECORD fender Samuel Umtiti (knee) are also on Barce- pointed Sarai Bareman as its fi rst ever Chief tary general of the Oceania Football Confedera- sponsor IPIC, who will be given naming rights. MASSIVE DROP IN TAX DEBT lona’s growing injury list. Women’s Football Offi cer, the association an- tion, will assume the role on Nov. 14. “It will be a spectacular transformation of Spanish football clubs have slashed their tax But at least Lionel Messi is on track to return nounced yesterday. The New Zealand native the Santiago Bernabeu stadium, which is one of debts to around a third of their 650mn euros in the coming week from the groin injury he sus- will lead the newly created Women’s Football REAL MADRID STADIUM the icons of our city and which we want to make ($720mn) apex from three years ago, La Liga of- tained last month. Barcelona, fourth in La Liga, Division as part of FIFA’s management board, REVAMP BACK ON TRACK one of the best stadiums in the world,” said club fi cials said yesterday. host Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday and then Zurich-based FIFA said. Spanish giants Real Madrid yesterday re- president Florentino Perez during a press con- First and second division clubs have a cu- face Manchester City — led by former Barce- “As the only female member of FIFA’s 2016 launched their 400mn euro ($443mn) bid to ference at the Town Hall. mulative 230-million-euro debt to the Spanish lona coach Pep Guardiola — in the Champions Reform Committee, Sarai was a strong advocate modernise their Bernabeu stadium paid for by Perez added that investment company IPIC government, with six clubs — Atletico Madrid League on October 19. Gulf Times Wednesday, October 12, 2016 3 FOOTBALL

WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS Pogba fi res France to victory as Belgium, Portugal run riot Switzerland maintain their unbeaten run, coming away 2-1 winners from Andorra with Schaer and Mehmedi scoring

AFP Amsterdam

searing fi rst-half strike from Paul Pogba handed France a 1-0 win at ri- vals the Netherlands as Belgium and Portugal clocked up 6-0 victories and ChristianA Benteke grabbed a slice of World Cup qualifying history. Criticised by coach Didier Deschamps for his performance in Friday’s 4-1 win over Bulgaria in Paris, the world’s most expensive footballer emphatically replied with a towering display for Les Bleus in Amsterdam in the most eye-catch- ing fi xture on Monday night. The Manchester United midfi elder’s power- ful hit from 25 metres out after half an hour left diving Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg able to get his hands to the fi zzing ball but un- able to stop it. “I didn’t speak to him (Pogba), I just said a few words to him before entering the chang- ing rooms, ‘I have confi dence in you,’” said Deschamps, who led France to Euro 2016 fi nal at home earlier this year. “The match confi rms what he is able to do. Pogba was much better in everything he did. He showed what he can do. We never doubted he could do it. We mustn’t forget Paul is relatively young and he can still progress.” France, losing fi nalists on home soil at Euro 2016, are equal on seven points at the top of Group A with Sweden, who beat Bulgaria 3-0 at home in Solna. The two countries will play on Results GROUP A At Borisov: Belarus 1 (Savitskiy 80) Luxembourg 1 (Joachim 85) At Solna: Sweden 3 (Toivonen 39, Hiljemark 45, Nilsson-Lindelöf 58) Bulgaria 0 At Amsterdam: Netherlands 0 France 1 (Pogba 30) GROUP B Netherlands’ Davy Propper (centre) and France’s Paul Pogba vie for the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualifying match at the Amsterdam Arena on Monday night. (AFP) At Riga: Latvia 0 Hungary 2 (Gyurcso 10, Szalai 77) November 11 at the Stade de France. The French had a slight scare in the fi nal chances at the end of the match.” Marino’s Davide Gualtieri in a World Cup quali- At Andorra: Andorra 1 (Martinez 90+1) Switzer- Pogba, 23, was imperial in front of a central minute but Hugo Lloris did well to keep out a Belgium and Portugal went on goal sprees fi er against England in November 1993. land 2 (Schaer 19-pen, Mehmedi 77) defence made up of Raphael Varane and Laurent Memphis Depay eff ort on the line. “It’s an im- against minnows Gibraltar and the Faroe Is- Portugal, bidding to catch Group B leaders At Torshavn: Faroe Islands 0 Portugal 6 (Silva Koscielny, who pushed back wave after wave of portant win for us, even if we could have had a lands. Belgium striker Benteke set a new World Switzerland, matched their 6-0 win over An- 12, 22, 37, Cristiano Ronaldo 65, Moutinho 90+1, Dutch attacks. And Pogba nearly doubled his larger lead,” said Deschamps. “We could have Cup record for the fastest goal ever — just seven dorra on Friday. Cancelo 90+3) account with a header off a Dimitri Payet corner hurt them more in the fi rst half. It’s good to have seconds — on his way to a hat-trick in Faro. Bel- Andre Silva scored a hat-trick for the Euro- GROUP H on 66 minutes just lacking power. got these two victories.” gium top Group H on nine points out of nine, pean champions before captain Cristiano Ron- At Tallinn: Estonia 0 Greece 2 (Torosidis 1, “If the team has a good match, I have a good The Dutch failed to make it to the Euros and ahead of Greece on goal diff erence. aldo netted his fi fth goal in four days, with Joao Stafylidis 61) match,” said a defi ant Pogba. “If it’s a bad match, now sit third in the group, needing to improve The 25-year-old Crystal Palace forward Cancelo and Joao Moutinho also scoring late on. At Zenica: Bosnia-Herzegovina 2 (Dzeko 70, 80) I have a bad match. We’re not going to talk about fast if they are to make it to Russia in 2018. picked up the ball in the fi rst action in Faro and Switzerland maintained their unbeaten run, Cyprus 0 individual performances. It’s true it’s not always “Our goalkeeper made a mistake which he never racing towards goal with the Gibraltar defence coming away 2-1 winners from Andorra with At Faro: Gibraltar 0 Belgium 6 (Benteke 1, 43, 55, nice to hear criticism, ‘bad things’ about myself. makes in training,” said coach Danny Blind. in disarray left goalie Deren Ibrahim with no Fabian Schaer and Admir Mehmedi scoring in Witsel 19, Mertens 51, Hazard 79) There wasn’t any answer. Today it was a good “We played better in the second half and we chance. Benteke’s quick-fi re goal eclipsed the either half. Arsenal playmaker Granit Xhaka team eff ort.” should have had at least a point because we had previous best of 8.3 seconds achieved by San captained Swiss for the fi rst time.

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Fla-Flu Rio derby — the eternal battle Benteke remains AFP Leading Flamengo to its sole modest aft er world Rio de Janeiro Copa Libertadores title and Intercontinental championship in 1981, Zico wracked up 19 goals io de Janeiro was mighty diff er- in 44 games, still the club record. record goal ent 104 years ago except for one Other Flamengo stars included vital constant: the passionate Rivellino, Assis, Zagallo, Bebeto, DPA shouts of fans at the Flamengo and Romario. Ronaldinho who Berlin vR Fluminense football derby. Tomorrow, would play for both clubs. more than a century and some 300 games Fla-Flu, wrote Rodrigues, later, the two teams face off again in the “was a game for all times. It hristian Benteke latest episode of Brazil’s most romantic was not a game for a century. A remained modest af- football series. century was very little for the ter scoring the quickest It’s not the most consequential game, thirst and hunger of Fla-Flu.” Cgoal in a competitive although Flamengo is fi ghting near the football international, not seeing top of the Brazilian championship and leaked into literary culture and the radio, himself as the hero in Belgium’s Fluminense is eying a berth in the South which contributed to “converting Fla- 6-0 victory in Gibraltar. American Copa Libertadores. Instead of Flu into a more important derby in the The Crystal Palace striker being held in the usual Maracana sta- popular imagination” across Brazil, said Benteke scored 8.1 seconds into dium, which is the scene of the most journalist Roberto Assaf, co-author of the 2018 World Cup qualifi er en not properly anticipate the pass. memorable encounters but is undergoing the book Fla-Flu, Game of the Century. route a hat-trick as Belgium top I moved past him and went to- post-Olympics maintenance, the next The legendary peak of this great con- their group with a maximum wards the goal,” Benteke, 26, told Fla-Flu encounter will take place two test was arguably on December 15, 1963, nine points, 13 goals scored and Belgian broadcasters RTBF. hours from Rio at the Volta Redonda club. when 177,000 people were registered as none conceded. The feat was But despite his record and be- But fans and players have bigger things having crammed into the Maracana — even more remarkable as Gi- ing the fi rst Belgian in 15 years to to worry about than stadiums. “Fla-Flu more than double current capacity — for braltar had kicked off the game score a hat-trick, Benteke said has no beginning. the fi nal of the Rio championship. played in Faro, Portugal. modestly: “I don’t think I am Fla-Flu has no end. Fla-Flu began 40 Unoffi cial estimates were that as many Benteke intercepted the sec- the hero of the night. The most minutes before time. And then the mass- as 193,000 attended, with Flamengo ond pass ahead of a hesitant de- important thing was to be seri- es awoke,” wrote the famed mid-20th taking the title. In that human tide was fender Ryan Casciaro, ran into ous about the game. We did that century writer Nelson Rodrigues in typi- a 10-year-old called Arthur Antunes the area and chipped the ball past by pressuring and scoring early. cally mystical terms. Coimbra, otherwise known as Zico, and goalkeeper Deren Ibrahim into From then on we had everything To fi nd the seeds of this struggle for who would grow up to be one of Brazil’s the far right corner. under control,” he said. supremacy between working class Fla- greatest players — and virtually a saint to There was confusion at fi rst Coach Roberto Martinez, who mengo and upper crust Fluminense you his club Flamengo. just how soon the goal had come replaced Marc Wilmots in the have to look back to a curious incident in “Fla-Flu became my favourite ‘cla- after kick-off . The world govern- wake of Belgium’s surprise Euro 1911. Fluminense was pushing to become sico.’ I loved coming onto the pitch and ing body FIFA spoke of 7 sec- 2016 quarter-fi nal exit against Rio champion when nine of its players looking up into the stands and seeing the onds but later in its report on the Wales, struck a similar line. “It rebelled against the board, defecting to colours. It was a great sight,” Zico told Monday games spoke of 8.1 sec- proves that the concentration nearby Flamengo which had been created Globoesporte channel in 2012. onds, just as Europe’s governing was full immediately. The aim in 1895 as a rowing club with no football- Leading Flamengo to its sole Copa body UEFA. was to score early to make our job ing interest. Libertadores title and Intercontinental That eclipsed by two-tenth of easier,” he said. That July 7 some 800 people showed championship in 1981, Zico wracked up a second the previous record of Martinez added in the direc- up at a football fi eld in the Laranjeiras, This file photo taken on February 12, 1995 shows Romario (right), playing his first 19 goals in 44 games, still the club record. 8.3 seconds San Marino’s Dav- tion of Benteke that he is im- which remains the Fluminense head- game with his new club Flamengo against Fluminense at Maracana stadium in Rio Other Flamengo stars included Rivellino, ide Gualtieri had needed to score proving after a diffi cult past sea- quarters, and witnessed the fi rst battle. de Janiero. (AFP) Assis, Zagallo, Bebeto, and Romario. Ro- in 1993 in a World Cup qualifi er son in which he was no regular Fla 3 — Flu 2: the endless cycle of revenge naldinho who would play for both clubs. against England. UEFA and FIFA starter at Liverpool once Juergen was on. nym for rivalry but it’s not like other ri- brothers who know each other very well,” Fla-Flu, wrote Rodrigues, “was a game said it was the quickest goal ever Klopp arrived as manager. Ben- Rio residents, or Cariocas, call this valries. It’s not something warlike. said Renato Terra, who directed a docu- for all times. It was not a game for a cen- in a competitive international. teke moved on to Crystal Palace footballing fi xture “charmoso,” or the Flamengo was born out of Fluminense, mentary on the derby. tury. A century was very little for the “The coach told us to press in summer and has scored three charmer. “Fla-Flu has become a syno- so it’s more like rivalry between two Beyond the stadiums, the rivalry has thirst and hunger of Fla-Flu.” from the start. The defender did Premier League goals. Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, October 12, 2016 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT REASON Henderson’s role at Liverpool marked Can Gerard Pique him out for England really be blamed for quitting Spain... Barcelona defender’s pro-Catalonia stance has encouraged the Internet trolls, and he has decided that after Russia 2018 it will no longer be worth it England’s Jordan Henderson during training. By Dominic Fifield, playing tomorrow, it won’t change By Alan Smith, The Guardian The Guardian anything. I am sure people will London London make a big deal of him not start- ing but, in football, teams change tactically for diff erent opposition t may have been a spur-of-the-mo- ordan Henderson will and for diff erent reasons. As I said, ment overreaction and Gerard Piqué lead England out against this doesn’t change anything for would not be the fi rst Spain centre- Slovenia with the interim us as a team in terms of Wayne not half to be talked out of retirement af- manager, Gareth South- starting. He is our captain, he leads Iter Carles Puyol’s U-turn in 2010, but if gate,J having praised his impact by example, and he’ll be ready he sticks by his decision to stop playing and growing maturity since tak- to come on and make an impact international football in 2018 can he re- ing on the unenviable task of when given the opportunity.” ally be blamed? succeeding Steven Gerrard as Gary Cahill, the vice-captain The Barcelona player, one of the best captain at Liverpool. under Roy Hodgson, may earn defenders to have played for Spain, has The midfi elder, who im- his 50th cap in Slovenia and he, long been vilifi ed for taking a strong pro- pressed against Malta on Sat- Theo Walcott and Joe Hart have Catalonian independence view and the urday, will earn his 30th cap at greater experience in terms of poisonous reaction to him cutting the the Stadion Stozice while the appearances among the cur- sleeves off his full-length shirt as op- team’s full-time captain, Wayne rent squad. Yet none of that trio posed to wearing a short-sleeved one Rooney, watches on from the captains his club side, a factor that bears the country’s fl ag during the substitutes’ bench. Southgate the manager clearly took into ac- 2-0 win against Albania on Sunday night has praised Rooney’s leadership count. “He has got a voice and was the fi nal straw. skills within the setup over the an opinion within this group “It’s not a heat of the moment decision, past week and reiterated that too,” Southgate said. “He has got I’ve given a lot of thought to this,” Piqué the Manchester United player his clear ideas of what we need said. “It’s not because of what happened will remain “captain of this team to work on, and a good tactical today, it’s because I always give my best while I am in charge”, but the mind and understanding. Again, on the fi eld and although there are some armband will go to Henderson it was not an easy decision as people who have thanked me, some don’t against the Slovenia team ranked there are other senior players in think it’s OK for me to be here.” No67 in the world. that dressing room, but he is the The last point is sadly true because The 26-year-old, who will be captain of a big football club and even though Piqué’s commitment to fl anked by Eric Dier as England is used to that responsibility. It playing for Spain cannot be questioned seek greater defensive surety, was the right decision for me.” his political views means some will still was initially appointed captain Henderson has also received a go ahead and do just that. He is not yet at Liverpool by Brendan Rodg- glowing report from the man he 30 but has 86 caps and won a World Cup ers at the start of last season and will replace. “I think Jordan is a and a European Championship. A dip in retained the role under Jürgen fantastic leader,” said Rooney. “He form looks some way off and when he Klopp over a campaign badly dis- has taken an incredibly diffi cult bids farewell after the World Cup two rupted by injury. Yet any doubts job from Steven Gerrard at Liver- years from now it is not exactly a wild that he did not have the charac- pool and he’s really grown into the prediction to suggest La Roja will be a lot ter or drive to make his mark on position. He’s a fantastic player weaker without him. Merseyside have been allayed by with great leadership qualities and He is not the fi rst Barça player to play his performances this season, he deserves his chance. It will be for Spain and hold pro-Catalan views, with that form having obviously an incredibly proud moment for and he will not be the last. Yet the tar- been noted by Southgate. him and his family.” geted abuse gets worse. Now, if only for one game, he Dier’s involvement, having been That unedifying episode also comes on must follow another talismanic rested on Saturday after a minor the back of some angry reactions closer performer as he takes over on the hamstring complaint, had always to home. Take a look at Wayne Rooney’s pitch. “I’ve been very impressed been pencilled in, with England standard post-match tweet after England’s by him,” the interim manager said. braced for a sterner examina- facile win over Malta on Saturday night. “What stood out for me is that he tion than that off ered by Malta at More than half of the replies are telling him has taken over as captain at a foot- Wembley. The Tottenham player to retire or explain how he was nutmegged Albania’s Ansi Agolli (R) vies with Spain’s Gerard Pique (L) during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualification match in Shkoder. ball club were he has succeeded has made the defensive-midfi eld in the fi rst half, then there are the grim re- one of the most iconic fi gures in brief his own of late and is likely to plies saying he should “get injured” or “if Arter, who had a hamstring injury, has against him if he was no longer interested a no-win situation. English football of all time. He has sit in front of the back-line along- you were a horse you would have been shot never intimated that he would switch al- in wearing a green shirt? Piqué’s long-held stance has not im- matured from that. He has shown side Henderson, with his club- by now”. Others are unpublishable. legiances and the story was quickly re- These incidents have developed to a pacted on his job of winning football great leadership skills with his club mate Danny Rose returning to Not for the fi rst time this season Roon- jected by all parties – just not before the backdrop of political turmoil in Britain matches but similar to Rooney and Arter, and is used to being captain, which the starting lineup for the injured ey was poor, but what gives a keyboard Internet trolls could rear their ugly heads and fair questions over why no footballer the legions of abusive online messages – is important.” Ryan Bertrand. warrior the right to abuse somebody who again. The Bournemouth midfi elder was is willing to make a Colin Kaepernick- including several wishing physical harm Henderson, despite being “I think it’s clear that you are has always given his best? It is hard to ar- oblivious to the false story before notic- style stand in an age where xenophobia – sent to the 29-year-old over the past 24 handed the armband, was keen talking about two diff erent pro- gue against supporters who have paid for ing a surge in despicable personal abuse is being openly encouraged by some of hours make for uncomfortable reading. to stress Rooney’s importance. fi les of player,” Southgate said a ticket to air grievances over a bad per- on his Twitter feed. those in power. Yet Piqué’s case provides There has never been a place on social “Wayne is very experienced when asked if Dier was a straight formance, yet there is a line that is being He gave an interview to an Irish news- a stark explanation for Premier League media for nuance. Sitting on the fence and, for me, he has been one of replacement for Rooney. “They crossed with increasing frequency, more paper on Sunday saying: “Honestly, it players keeping quiet when it comes to does not generate retweets and likes, but the best players in the world for have diff erent attributes. That’s often than not by faceless people watch- was the only time that I have ever had a the impending departure from the Euro- put yourself in the place of a high-profi le many years,” said Henderson. “He the basis of the decision. As a ing at home on TV. thought that maybe I shouldn’t bother pean Union among other issues. footballer. Would you let your true feel- sets an example to all of us on and coach you have to look at the Last Thursday night a baseless rumour playing for Ireland. The messages were There was some fun poked at Harry ings be known when an avalanche of off the fi eld. He is someone we all right setup for that game. I knew started doing the rounds in Dublin that just vile. I was shocked by what people Kane for his non-committal response abuse is guaranteed in return? Piqué look up to as a captain and a leader with this situation that obvi- Harry Arter was going to defect from the were sending my way. This was personal back in June when asked about Brexit but should be commended for having a pub- for his experience and the type of ously the news would leak. It was Republic of Ireland to England because he stuff , really nasty.” Again, could any- if he had a strong view and aired it, the lic stance but the grief appears no longer person that he is. He is massive for pretty obvious that Eric would had not yet played a competitive fi xture. body not clouded by partisanship hold it Spurs striker would have been faced with worth it. this team and just because he is not come into the game.”

BOTTOMLINE Dropping Rooney not courageous, it’s overdue

By Daniel Taylor, The Guardian contribution on that infamous night occasion, it would get a round of ap- Some will argue he should have fol- Ljubljana in Nice can probably be summed by plause. But it was a deception. lowed the advice of Alan Shearer, Peter L’Equipe’s ratings the following morn- John Robertson used to love those Shilton and many others by announc- ing. England’s captain, record scorer passes before Brian Clough converted ing after Euro 2016 that he was retiring t has all felt so joyless at times, with and automatic fi rst-team pick was giv- him from a mediocre central midfi elder from England duties to devote himself so many long, diffi cult periods when en four out of 10. into a double European Cup winner on to extending his club career. Yet Rooney it has seemed like a black drape could The truth is very few people will ar- Nottingham Forest’s left wing. “I got has always valued international football be placed over the entire team, it gue with Southgate’s choice. When it great pleasure pinging the ball from and, on that front, Southgate is right Imight surprise you to learn that when comes to England’s forwards, it has left-half to outside-right and right- when he says the player did not war- Gareth Southgate took his seat in the been a long time since Rooney menaced half to outside-left,” Robertson recalls rant the social-media schadenfreude or Stadion Stozice and set out his reasons defences in the manner of Kane, Jamie in his autobiography. “If I knocked it the minor boos that were audible in the for dropping Wayne Rooney it was seven Vardy, Daniel Sturridge and now Mar- 40 to 50 yards to feet I used to get a lot game against Malta on Saturday. years to the day since the last occasion cus Rashford. Maybe it is true, there- of personal satisfaction, but Cloughie Rooney has never been the type to England lost a qualifying fi xture. fore, that he is better suited to a deeper summed up passes like that in one dis- conjure up make-believe injuries to cry In truth it has been a grey team oc- position, but it is also diffi cult to recall missive word – ‘decoration’.” off international duty. He will continue cupying a grey place for longer than the last time a centre-forward moved José Mourinho does not seem too keen, to turn up, he says, even if he is not most people would probably care to back to midfi eld and excelled. Dwight either. “With me, he will never be a No6, guaranteed a place. remember, and especially in the years Yorke did OK-ish. Alan Smith had a go. playing 50 metres from goal,” he said His international career has since Rooney’s body started to fail him, It is not a lengthy list, by any means. of Rooney in his fi rst press conference stretched over 13 years, including 21 oc- the touch stopped being quite so cer- David Moyes always thought this was as United manager. “Yes, his passing is casions wearing the captain’s armband. tain and a footballer who once always the natural path for a 30-something amazing but mine is also amazing with- Rooney’s 117 caps put him eight short backed himself in any situation gave up File picture of England’s striker Wayne Rooney during a press conference. Rooney but the former United manager out pressure.” Mourinho could hardly of Shilton’s record and he still might taking on opponents. had his own misgivings because he was have been more emphatic that he will establish himself as England’s all-time That is why Southgate has done the ing since the start of the season. There are 2016 looking reasonably competent not sure the player he brought through never use Rooney as a midfi elder. Which appearance-maker. sensible thing removing Rooney and we plenty of us who have been suggesting for in his new midfi eld role but when he at Everton was cut out to play the lit- is a problem because Rooney is adamant “I’ve played 13 years for England, should probably avoid calling it coura- the past year or so that it was time to cut described himself in one press confer- tle give-and-go passes that helped to it is his best position and has used the non-stop, and given everything,” he geous, or bottle, or any of the other words him free, and the only issue really for de- ence as a better player than earlier in make Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick media to make it clear he wants a rethink. said. But here he was, being asked that have been applied so far. This is what bate is why Sam Allardyce, and especially his career it made you wince to hear a such elegant performers. Rooney’s spe- Something has to give and this is the fi rst to comment on Jordan Henderson’s it is: overdue. It cannot have been easy for Roy Hodgson, always seemed so in thrall once-mighty player trying, unsuccess- ciality became the sprayed cross-fi eld time in Rooney’s career his performances leadership qualities as the replace- Southgate to break the news but Rooney’s of the Manchester United player. fully, to manipulate the headlines. The pass out to the wings. He played that have weakened, rather than strength- ment captain. deterioration has not just been accelerat- Rooney did, in fairness, start Euro next game was against Iceland and his one beautifully sometimes and, on each ened, his bargaining position. He looked utterly miserable. Gulf Times Wednesday, October 12, 2016 5 SPORT

TENNIS HONG KONG OPEN Kerber makes short work of Sakkari Novak gives up on Reuters Meanwhile, Sam Stosur Hong Kong crashed out of the tournament at the hands of Japanese young- ster Nao Hibino. Having broken ermany’s Angelique in the fi rst game of the match, Kerber beat Maria the Australian surrendered her Sakkari of Greece 6-4 advantage immediately. Hibino 6-4 to reach the Hong broke once more to go 4-2 up and Fed Slams record GKong Open second round yes- closed out the set. terday as fourth seed Samantha Stosur was not at the top of Stosur suff ered a shock loss to her game and went a break down ‘I don’t think about any trophies or number ones in the world, rankings, anything like that’ unseeded Japanese Nao Hibino. in the second. Though she later Kerber, the world number one drew level, she immediately who crashed out of last week’s slipped behind once more. She China Open in the round of 16 fought until the end, saving four Novak Djokovic of Serbia hits a return against Fabio at the hands of Elina Svitolina, match points in the fi nal game, Fognini of Italy during their singles match at the made fi ve double faults but saved but the World No.84 was able to Shanghai Masters in Shanghai yesterday. (AFP) eight of 10 break points against hold her never to claim a famous world number 97 Sakkari. scalp. “I had never played my op- Johanna Konta kept up her ponent and that makes it tough,” pursuit of a spot at the BNP Kerber told reporters. Paribas WTA Finals Singapore “It will be the same in my next presented by SC Global by de- match. But in the end I have to feating fellow Brit Naomi Broady focus on my game.” at a canter, 6-2, 6-2. The German will face American Heather Watson squeezed Louisa Chirico in the next round. into the next round thanks to a Fifth seed Caroline Wozniacki narrow victory over Marina Era- of Denmark beat China’s Zheng kovic. The Brit got the pivotal Saisai 6-1 6-4 to set up a second- break in the penultimate game round clash with Britain’s Heath- of the fi rst set and though she er Watson who is seeded ninth went 4-1 behind in the second, and beat New Zealand’s Marina she mounted a comeback, seal- Erakovic 7-5 7-6(9). ing the win in a tie-break. Defending champion Jelena Elsewhere, Kristina Mlad- Jankovic also cruised through enovic beat Dalila Jakupovic, to the next round by defeating 7-6(6), 6-1, Caroline Garcia Samantha Crawford, 6-3, 6-1. sailed through, 6-3, 6-0, against Breaking in the fi rst and last games Tereza Martincova, Bethanie of the fi rst set, the Serbian went Mattek-Sands defeated Basak behind early in the second set but Eraydin, 6-1, 6-2, and Wang rattled off six straight games to Qiang defeated Zhang Ling, 6-2, book her place in the next round. 6-2.

Navarro surges past Barthel, stays in Singapore contention LINZ: No.4 seed Carla Suarez Navarro overcame some big hitting from Mona Barthel to ease past the German, 6-4, 6-2, to not only advance into the second round of the Generali Ladies Linz, but also retain her hopes of qualifying for the BNP Paribas WTA Finals Singapore presented by SC Global. “The most important thing is to take it match by match, step by step,” Suarez Navarro said in her post-match press conference. “Today, I felt really good on the court today. It’s an important week because of Singapore - not only for me, but for other players, as well.” The Spaniard, currently ranked No.10 on the Road to Singapore leaderboard, narrowly missed out on qualification last year, and could yet find herself closing in on the Top 8 with strong results in Linz - in a draw that boats four Top 10 players - and at next week’s Kremlin Cup. “Players all want spots in Singapore, and we only have a few more tournaments. For me, this is a really good tournament, really good facilities. The hotel is close to site, and the food is really good. You AFP when asked if surpassing Feder- working for me anymore”. who didn’t have to stretch him- where he lifted the third tro- guys will have an interesting week for sure,” she said, joking with Shanghai er’s 17 major titles was still one “I try to be in this moment self against Italy’s Fognini. phy of his season and career on the members of the media. of his goals. “I don’t think about and take things slowly, and, A lone break of serve was Sunday. Though she led Barthel 2-0 in their head-to-head, the pair had only that at all. you know, I’m not rushing any- enough for Djokovic to win the “I was just a little bit bored at played on clay - Suarez Navarro’s favorite surface - and the indoor new-look Novak “I don’t think about any tro- where. I’m not in a need, you fi rst set and Fognini matched times,” he said, when asked why hardcourts are a much better fit for the former World No.23, who Djokovic said he had phies or number ones in the know, to achieve anything,” he the Serb with strong baseline he wasn’t his usual vocal self on struggled with illness and injury throughout the season. given up on chasing world, rankings, anything like said. play until 3-3 in the second court. “I was feeling very tired “The color [of the court] is diff erent, but sometimes when the court Roger Federer’s record that. It’s completely diff erent. “I feel like I have overcome set. today.” is too fast, it’s not really good for me. It’s not good for the tennis or 17A Grand Slam titles as he made “It is there, because I play that step. Right now it’s about But Fognini’s serve deserted Juan Martin del Potro has for the show, either, because it’s bing, bam, bing, bam - so fast! But a winning return to the tennis partly because I enjoy being just, you know, following my him as he double-faulted to also been in strong form but his I really like these courts; the color is nice and diff erent. It’s not too circuit yesterday. successful and seeing the re- gut, following my instinct, hand over a break, and then tournament was quickly over fast, so it’s good.” Djokovic, the formerly in- sults of my work. But on the whatever I feel like doing.” again for three match points, when he was dumped out by Serving at 71% for the match, Suarez Navarro’s consistency won domitable Serb who has bullied other hand that comes second.” He added: “Just before I ar- before sealing his fate with his Belgian seed David Goffi n 4-6, the day, breaking serve four times to reach the second round in his rivals over the past two sea- Djokovic has been in a funk rived to Olympic Games, things seventh and fi nal double. 6-3, 7-5 in 2hr 18min. just over an hour. sons, said he had undergone a since completing a career were looking great, I was in Djokovic gave the Italian a Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov “I know she serves really well, so I had to be focused on the return radical rethink after his travails Grand Slam — and a run of four great shape. I won Toronto. You wry smile of sympathy as they beat French seed Richard Gas- game. The end of the first set was tough for me, but I tried to be of recent months. straight major titles — at the know, I was, as I can say, the shook hands. The defending quet 6-4, 6-4 as he bounced solid, sometimes aggressive with my return. I’m happy with my The 29-year-old said he no French Open in June. peak of my abilities. champion will play Grigor Dim- back quickly from losing Sun- performance.” longer saw protecting his world The Serb, who has admitted “I was extremely motivated itrov or Vasek Pospisil in the day’s China Open fi nal to Andy One of the only women to reach the second week at all four major number one ranking, now under having “private issues”, lost in to do well there, but I lost that third round. Murray. tournaments in 2016, Suárez Navarro, who won the biggest tourna- threat from Andy Murray, as his Wimbledon’s third round, and equilibrium. I lost that balance, Germany’s Alexander Zverev, ment of her career earlier this season at the Qatar Total Open, next priority, or breaking Federer’s then failed to win a match at the because I exaggerated with the Alexander the Great 19, heightened his growing rep- plays Sara Sorribes Tormo, who knocked out Jelena Ostapenko, all-time record. Rio Olympics before fi nishing way I pushed myself in that Earlier outspoken Australian utation when he beat eighth- 7-6(3), 6-4. The 12-time Grand Slam- runner-up at the US Open. kind of preparation and I really, Nick Kyrgios said he had to sti- seeded former US Open cham- “When you make it to Singapore, it’s one of the best moments after winner beat Fabio Fognini 6-3, you know, wanted it too much fl e yawns as he dispatched Sam pion Marin Cilic 3-6, 6-3, 6-2. the four Grand Slams. It would be good for my career if I can make 6-3 at the Shanghai Masters in ‘Wanted it too much’ maybe.” Querrey 6-4, 6-4 to tot up his But Australia’s Bernard it there, even once. his fi rst match back after skip- He said he had had a com- The mental revamp is aston- sixth win in a row. Tomic said his season might be “It’s tough to get there, but even Zhuhai is also a good tournament. ping last week’s China Open plete change of heart about his ishing from a player who has Kyrgios said he was “bored” over after he retired with an ab- It means you’ve finished the year in the Top 15; that’s not bad at with an elbow injury. approach to tennis because the long pushed himself to the limit and tired after last week’s ex- dominal problem while 3-6, 3-0 all.” “Right now, no,” he said, “must-win mindset... is not in pursuit of perfection — but ertions at the Japan Open, down against Roberto Bautista.

FORMULA ONE Mercedes drivers celebrate dream team triple

Reuters mention of a Malaysian race that air in triumph for a team pho- Brixworth, England blew a mighty hole in his champi- tograph next to the cars, signed onship chances nine days ago then autographs and posed for selfi es. he did not show it. Another celebration followed at ewis Hamilton and Nico Instead, the Briton focused on the nearby Brackley team head- Rosberg took time out from the fact that his 49 wins to date quarters. their title battle yesterday — with McLaren and Mercedes — Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff , to join Mercedes bosses had been powered by the German who travelled back from Japan with Land factory staff in celebrating the manufacturer’s engines and looked Hamilton on Lauda’s plane, said team’s third successive Formula One forward to more success. the driver was in good shape. constructors’ world championship. “Today is about all of you guys. “It’s very diffi cult to fl y back from “The smallest guy here, with the I am so proud of everyone,” said a race that has been very diffi cult smallest part into our engine, is a Hamilton, whose engine failed at for you and where your team mate winner,” non-executive chairman Sepang just as he was heading for has scored a lot of points. But...he’s Niki Lauda told staff crowded into a victory that would have put him a three times world champion, he’s the ‘pitstop’ canteen for a cham- back in the championship lead. able to recover from that diffi cult pagne celebration at the Brixworth Instead, after a subsequent trou- moment,” he said. engine facility. bled weekend in Japan, he trails Asked whether winning the “I know how many hours you Rosberg by 33 points with four constructors’ title meant the driv- have to work, especially after Ma- races remaining and the knowledge ers were now unleashed for a full- laysia,” added the Austrian, him- that even four wins may not suffi ce. on battle, Wolff told Reuters noth- self a triple world champion as a “I’m just looking forward, ing had changed. driver. there’s still four races to go and “We have always kept them rac- “We have to keep on going at the I’ve got an incredible amount of ing, actually we have had no team same pace and work...to make sure support,” the triple champion told orders and that is exactly the same that none of our cars in the last Reuters when asked about the Su- way we want to continue — and races have any problems.” zuka weekend. hopefully not let them down with Japanese Grand Prix winner Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team’s German driver Nico Rosberg (C) and Mercedes AMG Petronas crew If Hamilton winced inside at the He joined staff in punching the mechanical issues.” members take a selfie at their paddock after the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix race in Suzuka on October 9. (AFP) Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, October 12, 2016 GOLF

ANNOUNCEMENT OPINION ‘Woods may never ‘Not ready’ Tiger cancels make successful long-awaited comeback comeback’ Reuters ‘My health is good, and I feel strong, but my game is vulnerable and not where it needs to be’ Los Angeles iger Woods’ decision to AFP postpone his tournament Los Angeles golf comeback has raised more questions about his fu- Tture with some former players won- iger Woods rocked the dering if he will ever successfully re- golf world on Monday after turn to regular competition. abruptly cancelling his long- Former PGA Tour winner Brandel awaited comeback, raising Chamblee greeted Monday’s news of Tfresh questions about his ability to re- Woods’ withdrawal from this week’s turn to the highest levels of the sport Safeway Open by comparing the he once ruled. player’s plight with the late-career Just three days after the PGA Tour struggles of Spanish fi ve-times ma- issued a statement trumpeting the jor winner Seve Ballesteros. former world number one’s participa- Twice major champion Johnny tion at the Safeway Open in California Miller said Woods was “not ever this week, Woods announced he was going to be the old Tiger,” although not ready to return from his 14-month stopping short of writing off the injury layoff . 40-year-old completely. Chamblee The 14-time major winner, 40, who described a “perfect storm” of is- has been out of action since under- sues that have simultaneously beset going surgery late last year to cure a 14-times major champion Woods. long-standing back injury, said con- “What has happened to Tiger cerns over form — rather than fi tness Woods is really the perfect storm of — were behind the decision to delay destruction for an athlete,” Cham- his comeback. blee said on Golf Channel. “After a lot of soul-searching and “We’ve seen Tiger Woods’ golf honest refl ection, I know that I am swing decay, his body decay and then not yet ready to play on the PGA Tour his chipping decay. or compete in Turkey,” said Woods, “Once you’ve been visited upon who was also due to take part in next by the yips, when you’re chipping it month’s Turkish Airlines Open in just never goes away. There’s noth- Antalya. ing more exciting in golf, maybe in “My health is good, and I feel sports, than watching Tiger Woods, strong, but my game is vulnerable but there are too many hurdles to and not where it needs to be,” added overcome. I just don’t see (Woods) Woods, who however said he hoped to overcoming the yips.” play in December’s Hero World Chal- Chamblee also explained his com- lenge in the Bahamas. parison of Woods to the late Bal- Woods was one of the US Ryder Cup lesteros, who was a pale shadow of assistant captains as the hosts won his former self once his confi dence back the trophy off Europe just over a ebbed. “On many levels, there are week ago at Hazeltine. parallels to Seve. Seve Ballesteros Woods said while that experience was a genius, an artist. whetted his appetite to return to play- “That’s what golf is, it’s more of ing, he realized he was not ready to an abstract game, and Seve tried to compete against the world’s best. make it later in his career a linear “When I announced last week I game, and every single person that was going to Safeway, I had every in- I’ve seen in professional golf who tention of playing, or I wouldn’t have tried to make it a linear game, either committed,” added Woods, whose last becomes so frustrated they no longer major victory came in 2008 and who can play or sooner or later they quit.” has not won a US PGA event for three Woods was scheduled to play at years. the PGA Tour event in Napa, Cali- “I spent a week with the US Ryder fornia, starting tomorrow, returning Cup Team, an honour and experience from a 14-month break after back that inspired me even more to play. I surgeries. But his decision to pull practised the last several days in Cali- out, three days after confi rming his fornia, but after a lot of hours, I knew participation, was puzzling. I wasn’t ready to compete against the Safeway Open tournament host best golfers in the world.” Miller was crestfallen at the news, and acknowledged that Woods’ glory ‘I’m close, I won’t stop’ to watch me compete on TV,” Woods our tournament,” Miller told the Golf back and play like the year 2000 Ti- him to have his fi rst tournament back days were probably long behind him. Woods’ sudden withdrawal is a said. Channel. ger Woods and that’s just not going not be part of the PGA Tour,” “I know there’s a lot of pressure on bodyblow for the Safeway Open, “This isn’t what I wanted to hap- “Obviously I wish Tiger the best. to happen. He’s got to break the ice Steinberg said. Tiger after being away from profes- which had reportedly sold around pen, but I will continue to strive to be Everybody was so excited in the golf sometime. I hope he picks the right “That decision has nothing to do sional golf for 14 months,” said Mill- 28,000 tickets since the golfer fi rst able to play tournament golf. I’m close world. It’s hard to break that news. It spot.” with health or projecting where his er. “Everyone expects him to come announced he planned to make his and I won’t stop until I get there.” really is. Woods’ long-time agent Mark golf game is going to be in three weeks. back and play like the year 2000, but comeback at the event. Tournament host Johnny Miller “It’s hard being Tiger Woods, es- Steinberg strongly hinted the player It’s out of respect to the PGA Tour. that’s just not going to happen. “I would like to apologise and send expressed sympathy for Woods’ de- pecially if you can’t back it up with a would only make his return on US soil “It didn’t feel right, so we decided “He’s not ever going to be the old my regrets to Safeway, the Turkish cision, while acknowledging it would semblance of the old Tiger Woods,” as part of the PGA Tour. we should just wait and look at the Tiger (but) I still think he can win, if Airlines Open, the fans in California aff ect this week’s event. Miller added. “I don’t think it’s appropriate and Hero World Challenge to be his return he has the desire. I just hope he can and Turkey and those that had hoped “Obviously it’s a huge impact on “Everybody expects him to come Tiger doesn’t think it’s appropriate for date.” fi nd a bit of joy in the game again.”

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Ryder Cup rookie Wood gutted hero Tiger is delaying return Thompson thriving on

Reuters “He doesn’t deserve for his career to come to a Watford, England fi nish in this way. He deserves to go out in all the style that his records still deserve.” Wood is dreaming of joining Nick Faldo (1989), LPGA’s international swing yder Cup rookie Chris Wood is gutted Seve Ballesteros (1991) and Colin Montgomer- his hero Tiger Woods has scrapped plans ie (1998) as the only players to achieve the PGA Reuters I think it’s great for our Tour. “We probably to make a comeback this week, calling it a Championship-British Masters double in the same Incheon, South Korea struggle with a little bit of the jet lag trav- blow to the European Tour as well as to the year. elling to these tournaments, but I think it’s millionsR of golf fans around the world. “That’s quite a big thing for me to take in,” said great for growing our Tour, as well.” Fourteen-times major champion Woods an- the 6-foot-6 Englishman. “And extra motivation to he jet set lifestyle of the LPGA Tour nounced yesterday that his game was not sharp try. That would be a hell of a thing to have on your can be tough on players as they TOP ROOKIE enough for him to compete in the PGA Tour event CV, to be associated with those three players.” criss-cross continents and adjust With Olympic champion Park In-bee the starting in to time zones, but the internation- only absentee from the world’s top 10, there Napa, California, tomorrow or at next month’s Tal swing has unearthed incredible talent are no shortage of contenders eager to wrest Turkish Airlines Open. and helps the circuit grow, American Lexi Thompson’s title from her grasp. The 40-year-old American has been sidelined Thompson said yesterday. Among the favourites is South Korea’s for 14 months because of back-related injuries. While the PGA Tour rarely ventures out- Chun In-gee, who won her second major “It would have been great for the European Tour side US borders, the women’s circuit is at last month’s Evian Championship and for him to play in Turkey,” Wood told a news con- hosting one-third of its 33 offi cial money recently wrapped up the Rookie of the Year ference yesterday ahead of this week’s British Mas- events on foreign shores this season, tak- award. ters on the outskirts of London. ing the road show as far afi eld as Australia, “Being a Rookie of the Year is a huge hon- “There would have been that buzz of Tiger’s South Korea and Singapore. our for me, being able to put my name next back... and he’s playing on the European Tour so it The bulk of the Tour’s 200 active play- to some of the greatest players of all time is really disappointing for myself as a golf fan... be- ers are international — 127 representing 28 such as Karrie Webb and Annika Sorens- cause he was my golfi ng hero. countries. World number fi ve Thompson has tam,” she said. “He won the US Masters when I was 10 years embraced the international fl avour of the In 2015, Chun became the fi rst player to old. From that point on he’s the only guy I’ve ever Tour and it has certainly been good for her win majors on three diff erent tours during looked up to.” career with six of the 21-year-old’s 10 career the same calendar year. Wood won this year’s BMW PGA Championship victories coming outside North America. She won last year’s US Women’s Open at Wentworth, the European Tour’s fl agship event, One of those wins came at last year’s KEB while still playing on the Korean Tour and and he was asked if he felt the former world number Hana Bank Championship and Thompson said her wire-to-wire Evian win in France one’s playing days had come to an end. said returning to South Korea to defend her should dispel any doubts about her talent. “I don’t think he’ll ever say it’s over,” said the title brought back a lot of good memories. “I think that sort of proved that winning 28-year-old Briton. “The LPGA Tour, it’s such a global tour at the US Women’s Open last year wasn’t a “But you never know with Tiger. right now. We do travel a lot overseas, and we fl uke,” she added. “And I felt that I had an “Nobody’s ever known, really, throughout his have a lot of international players, but it’s all opportunity to prove that I belonged by whole career what he really does golf-wise when about the talent that we bring to the table,” winning the Evian major championship.” he’s at home, practice-wise, gym, all that sort of she told a news conference at SKY 72 Golf The fi rst round of the LPGA/KLPGA co- thing, nobody knows and he never gives on. Club. “Doesn’t matter where we’re from... sanctioned tournament begins tomorrow. Gulf Times Wednesday, October 12, 2016 7 SPORT

OPINION Jones’ ‘no imitation’ ploy is strange form of fl attery England’s ‘rebranding’ must surely take account of the skill levels of this record-equalling New Zealand side after their destruction of South Africa

By Robert Kitson in London It was not so much the record- ing hosts unbeaten in a Test match on be something they are not. He may have The Guardian breaking nine-try margin of defeat for home soil since 2009. derived rather more enjoyment from the Springboks on home soil, as sig- Common sense would suggest there the way Saracens shut down Wasps’ nifi cant as that is in the historical con- is at least a thimble of wisdom these much-vaunted attacking game at the he England coach, Eddie text of the sport. What really resonated free-wheeling, modern-thinking All weekend; there is still no rugby team Jones, went to four rugby was the way the All Blacks pulled away Blacks can off er the rest of the world. who can do much with a bristling oppo- matches over the weekend but after the interval, winning the second At the very least the increased tempo sition in their nostrils, intent on stop- it was the game he did not at- half by an astounding 45-6. they add to their game in the second ping any hint of creativity at source. Ttend that will be talked about for years. The speed and awareness of Beau- half is an example to all, as is their Hence Jones’s preference for big, New Zealand’s one-sided 57-15 den Barrett, the fl y-paper hands of Is- hunger to strike just before and after bustling back-row forwards, tactically romp over South Africa in Durban was rael Dagg, the precision of Ben Smith, the interval and from restarts. shrewd half-backs, physicality and at- no routine victory. Let’s just say Jones the staggering all-court games of Bro- No side hit harder on the counter- titude across the fi eld. He says he will chose an interesting time to suggest die Retallick and Dane Coles, the po- attack, none handle better fl at to the not turn his attention fully to Eng- there is limited value in seeking to em- tential of Liam Squire and Ardie Savea: gainline, none have forwards and backs land’s attack until next year, once the ulate the All Blacks. the Springboks were not so much over- who appear so absurdly interchange- “traditional pillars” of set piece and “The thing that really annoys me powered as sliced and diced by some- able. The try scored by TJ Perenara af- defence are fi rmly in place. in rugby at the moment is that every- thing far beyond their imaginations. ter a quite brilliant fl at pass across the Rebranding the way the game is one tries to copy New Zealand. Why?” When the former All Black captain defence to a full-tilt Kieran Read fol- played? His England team will not asked Jones in an interview with the Sean Fitzpatrick told Sky Sports view- lowed by a one-handed catch by Dagg be taught to run until they can walk, Sunday Times. ers New Zealand had “taken rugby to and another one-handed offl oad from which is a slightly sobering assess- He went on to talk about England a new level” and called them “prob- Coles was merely the latest eye-pop- ment of the second-ranked team in “rebranding” the way the game is ably the best All Blacks side I’ve seen in ping example. Dan who? Richie who? the world. New Zealand, in contrast, played between now and 2019. Eve- terms of their preparation and skillsets” a distinction which will be furiously It is increasingly a stretch to im- Attempting to copy that kind of thing are now showing their class with Usain ryone knows what he is driving at—to he was merely stating the obvious. drawn in Lithuania whose national side agine New Zealand’s sequence being from a standing start is akin to buying a Bolt consistency. beat New Zealand at their own game is Another Bledisloe Cup victory over also went unbeaten for 18 games be- broken this autumn by Ireland—who couple of tins of emulsion and expect- As with Bolt, it is hard to think of an- presently impossible—but it would be Australia this Saturday, their 18th win tween 2006-10. With all due respect to have two shots at them in Chicago and ing to paint like Michelangelo. That is yone else in their respective sports who churlish to suggest the All Blacks have in a row, would set a record for consec- the boys from Vilnius, the two squads Dublin—Italy or France, leaving the essentially what Jones was getting at: he has shone brighter or made the rest of nothing to teach their pursuers. utive Test wins among tier one nations, have nothing else in common. British & Irish Lions potentially fac- sees no point in England pretending to the world look so mediocre.

SPOTLIGHT BRIEFS Italian Olympic Committee offi cially Russian hammer-thrower Lysenko stripped of 2012 London Games gold medal Russia’s Tatyana Lysenko has been stripped of her London 2012 Olympic gold medal in the ham- abandons Rome bid mer throw after she tested positive for steroids in re-tests of her sample, the International Olympic ‘I’m forced to interrupt this process eleven months from its conclusion and after three Committee (IOC) said yesterday. “Re-analysis of Lysenko’s samples from London 2012 resulted in a years of work. It’s a pity because our project was a winning project. It’s irresponsible to positive test for the prohibited substance dehydro- chlormethyltestosterone (turinabol),” the IOC said. have to give up the IOC money and the 177,000 jobs which would have been created’ The double world champion, who now competes under the name Beloborodova, had already been banned by the International Association of Athlet- ics Federations (IAAF) for doping earlier this year. She won world titles in 2011 and 2013 to add to her Olympic gold but did not compete at the Rio Games due to a track and field ban on Russian athletes. Lysenko, 33, also served a two-year ban from 2007- 09 for using steroids, missing the 2008 Olympics, and now faces a lifetime suspension from the sport. WBO ready to strip Tyson Fury of heavyweight title

British world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury has been given 10 days to explain why he should not be stripped of his WBO belt. The World Boxing Organization issued the deadline yesterday in a notice to Fury in which he is asked to demonstrate why his title “should not be vacated due to inactivity, breach of contract and performance-enhancing drugs and stimulants”. Fury dethroned Wladimir Klitschko as IBF, WBA and WBO world champion by beating the Ukrain- ian on points last November in Germany, but has since cancelled the rematch twice for medical reasons. Fury also faces a hearing into a charge for an alleged doping violation. He was stripped of the IBF title because he refused to fight against a mandatory challenger, but currently still holds the WBO and the WBA titles. Swiss court dismisses Aussie Rules doping appeal

A Swiss court in Lausanne yesterday dismissed an appeal by 34 Australian Football League (AFL) players against a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling, which banned them for doping off ences. The past and present players from Mel- AFP to give up the IOC money and the One of those legs gave way, for ide- the Democratic Party of Prime Min- drawn over lack of public support bourne-based club Essendon had filed an appeal Rome 177,000 jobs which would have ological and demagogic reasons,” ister Matteo Renzi, which was badly and other uncertainties. with the Swiss Federal Tribunal (SFT) in the hope been created.” he said. “Virginia Raggi has in her defeated by Raggi’s M5S in June. Sept 1, 2015: USOC announces Los of overturning a guilty verdict handed down by Italy’s Olympic committee CONI hands all the latest opinion polls “We have taken note of the deci- Angeles as new US bidder. CAS in January. The SFT said in a statement they talian Olympic Committee had already accepted that the bid which show that more and more sion by Rome 2024 and will further Sept 15, 2015: Los Angeles, had “decided not to entertain the appeal filed by president Giovanni Malago was dead in the water and has said Romans are favourable towards the explore with the Candidature Com- Hamburg, Paris, Rome and the players against the CAS award of 11 January (picture) put a defi nitive end a new attempt to get the Games Games. There is not one single one mittee what this means,” an IOC Budapest meet International 2016 imposing a 2-year ban on each player fol- Ito Rome’s bid to host the 2024 was unlikely for at least 20 years. who gives a diff erent result.” spokesperson said in an e-mailed Olympic Committee (IOC) deadline lowing an anti-doping rule violation”. Olympic Games yesterday after the Italy hosted the Summer Olympics CONI in 2011 also pulled out of a statement. “All the circumstances and submit their candidacy. The SFT determined that since the players city’s newly elected mayor refused once in Rome 1960, and the Winter bid to host the 2020 Games because and the information that we have re- Nov 29, 2015: A referendum stops “did not formally challenge the jurisdiction of to support the project. Games three times — most recently the Prime Minister at the time ceived in the past days clearly dem- Hamburg’s bid, with 51.6 per cent of CAS during the arbitration procedure” they had “I wrote to the International Turin 2006. Mario Monti believed the country onstrate that this is about Italian the voters opposing the Games. lost their right to challenge the Swiss-based CAS Olympic Committee (IOC) today Raggi, a member of the populist did not have the fi nancial means. politics only,” the statement added. June 1, 2016: IOC executive board jurisdiction in appeal. The SFT added however to withdraw Rome-2024 from the Five Star Movement, had made it “It’s now my duty to try and re- Rome is not the fi rst city to exit confirms Los Angeles, Paris, Rome that “even if the jurisdiction of CAS had been running,” Malago told a specially clear before she was elected in June gain international credibility for the race. Germany’s Hamburg had and Budapest as candidate cities properly challenged by the players, CAS jurisdic- convened press conference. that she did not think the Italian our sports system. This is why I’ve also fi led a bid, but it was blocked in for the next stage of the bid. tion in this matter would have been confirmed Rome’s ill-fated bid to host the capital should be bidding for the decided to present Milan as a can- a referendum last year. In Septem- Sept 21, 2016: New Rome mayor and the appeal would have been dismissed”. Games was eff ectively killed off last Olympics at a time when its creak- didate to host the IOC congress in ber 2015, Los Angeles stepped in for Virginia Raggi off icially announces The players were accused of using a prohibit- month when the city council voted ing transport system and other 2019. This is the saddest day of my Boston which lacked public, politi- opposition to bid, city council votes ed peptide to aid recovery from injury during the in favour of the new mayor’s re- public services are falling apart for presidency,” said Malago, who has cal and fi nancial support. The IOC against bid on September 29. 2012 season in a programme led by controversial quest to withdraw support. Nearly lack of investment. been in offi ce since 2013. will announce the successful candi- October 11, 2016: Rome’s bid is sports scientist Stephen Dank, who is appealing two thirds of councillors backed Rome’s withdrawal leaves Bu- Mayor Raggi said last month date on September 13 next year. formally withdrawn by Italian against a life ban imposed last year over his role mayor Virginia Raggi’s position dapest, Los Angeles and Paris bat- that her administration was against Olympic Committee. in the scandal. The case was described at the that the cash-strapped city needs tling for the right to host the global hosting the Olympics because it December 6, 2016: IOC executive time as “absolutely and utterly disgraceful” by to sort out its own problems before sporting event. was too much of a fi nancial burden Timeline board to decide which candidate Australian anti-doping agency chief executive it is in a position to host the Games. Malago said the decision to for the debt-ridden city. January 8, 2015: US Olympic Com- cities advance to next bid stage. Ben McDevitt, who also said it was “not a supple- “I’m forced to interrupt this withdraw the bid was a “very grave “Olympic Games are a dream mittee (USOC) selects Boston as US February-June 2017: IOC evalua- ments programme but an injection regime”. process eleven months from its renunciation and a great disap- which at a certain point turn into a bidder for 2024 Games. tion commission to visit candidate In its original ruling, CAS ruled it was “com- conclusion and after three years pointment”. nightmare,” she said. March 16, 2015: German Olympic cities and check the facilities; publi- fortable” that the AFL doping code had been of work,” said Malago. “It’s a pity “I always said this bid was a ta- The city council had originally Sports Confederation (DOSB) picks cation of its report in June. violated “and found by a majority that all players because our project was a winning ble supported by three legs (CONI, sponsored the idea in 2015, but un- Hamburg as German bidder. Sept 13, 2017: Election of 2024 host were significantly at fault”. project. It’s irresponsible to have government and local authority). der a diff erent administration led by July 27, 2015: Boston’s bid is with- city at IOC Session in Lima. Gulf Times 8 Wednesday, October 12, 2016 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT BASEBALL Cubs fail to complete sweep, blowing 3-run Indians sweep lead in 13-inning Red Sox in ALDS to loss to Giants end Ortiz’s career ‘We feel we have a better ballclub. But when it comes to playoff s and short series, it’s not about who’s the best, it’s about who plays the best, and obviously they did’

MCT Boston San Francisco Giants second baseman Joe Panik (12) hits a walk-off ver since last November, when RBI double against the Chicago Cubs. David Ortiz announced his intent to retire, the Red Sox coalesced MCT That gave the Giants their fi rst around a singular goal. San Francisco lead in the series, and Brandon E“Everybody had it mapped out in their Crawford added an RBI single head in spring training what we want- past a drawn-in infi eld for what ed to do,” pitcher Clay Buchholz said, oe Panik’s drive caromed looked to be an insurance run “knowing that David was not going to be off the right-fi eld wall just until Sergio Romo surrendered here next year.” before midnight Pacifi c Bryant’s tying home run. While the Red Sox were able to give the time Monday, leaving the Bryant’s homer was dramatic 20-year veteran a division crown, they CubsJ no time to rebound. but not as impressive as that of were unable to take it any further. And as After taking a three-run lead Arrieta, who smacked a high a result, the career of one of the most be- on pitcher Jake Arrieta’s early fastball on a 1-2 pitch by Bum- loved fi gures, sports or otherwise, to ever home run, only to watch a usu- garner into the second row of the pass through this city came to a surpris- ally reliable bullpen implode left-fi eld seats, setting off a wild ing, sudden ending. before Kris Bryant provided he- celebration in the Cubs dugout Though the Red Sox were heavily fa- roics, the Cubs walked slowly off led by Anthony Rizzo. voured against the AL Central champion the AT&T Park fi eld after Panik’s For Arrieta, the homer backed Indians, Boston’s vaunted off ense – Or- double in the 13th inning scored up the commitment by him and tiz included – never got it going in their Brandon Crawford for a 6-5 Gi- his fellow starting pitchers to American League Division Series. De- ants victory. help lengthen the lineup. Arrieta spite inserting some drama late in Game That postponed the Cubs’ led Cubs pitchers in the regular 3 on Monday night, the Red Sox were opportunity to sweep the best- season with a .262 average and swept in the best-of-fi ve series, losing of-fi ve National League Divi- 17 hits, including two home runs. to the Indians, 4-3, in front of 39,530 at sion Series and marked the 10th He and Wood put the Cubs in Fenway Park. consecutive time the Giants won the history books as they became Boston led the majors in runs with 878 a potential elimination game. the fi rst team to have two pitch- this season but scored only seven in the They trail 2-1 in the series that ers homer in a postseason series three games. continues Tuesday night. since Rosy Ryan and Jack Bent- “What they did to us we expected to do Panik’s double came against ley of the New York Giants in the to them because we feel we have a better left-hander Mike Montgomery, 1924 World Series. ballclub,” an at-times-emotional Ortiz who was working his fi fth in- Bumgarner needed 37 pitches said. “But when it comes down to play- ning of relief in a zany game that to get through the second but off s and short series, it’s not about who’s started with Arrieta’s three-run managed to last 101 pitches and the best, it’s about who plays the best, homer in the second that ended fi ve innings. The Cubs failed to and obviously they did.” Madison Bumgarner’s streak of knock him out sooner as Ben Zo- The Indians will face the Blue Jays 24 scoreless postseason innings. brist was stranded at third base in the best-of-seven American League The Cubs tied the score in the in the third after Javier Baez took Championship Series, which starts Fri- ninth on Bryant’s towering two- a called third strike and Miguel day in Cleveland. Cleveland Indians teammates celebrate after defeating the Boston Red Sox 4-3 in game three of the 2016 ALDS playoff series. run homer that struck the top of an Montero fl ied to right. In his fi nal game, the 40-year-old Or- advertisement sign and bounced Meanwhile, the top of the Gi- tiz went 0-for-1 with two walks. He was 2-and-0 before he lined an RBI single to into the left-fi eld bleachers. ants order chipped away at Arri- 1-for-9 in the series. left to make it 4-3. Bryant’s homer was needed eta, who was allowed to bat with After Travis Shaw fl ied out with two on Marco Hernandez came in to pinch run because the Cubs bullpen – a runner at second and one out in and two out against Indians closer Cody for Ortiz, who left the fi eld to a huge ova- which hadn’t allowed a run to the the sixth and the Cubs protecting Allen in the ninth, Fenway went quiet as tion. Xander Bogaerts then stung a liner Giants in 32 1/3 innings this sea- a one-run lead. the Indians – who advanced to the ALCS but right at second baseman Jason Kipnis son – allowed three runs in the Arrieta lined to left, but he for the fi rst time since 2007 and are man- to silence the crowd, keeping it 4-3. bottom of the eighth. retired the side in order and al- aged by Terry Francona, who led the Red “I was cheering so bad once I got out of After Travis Wood allowed a lowed Maddon to line up his Sox to two World Series titles – celebrat- the game,” Ortiz said. “I was screaming at single to Brandon Belt and Hec- bullpen for the fi nal innings. ed their surprising sweep. my teammates, ‘put me back in it. Make tor Rondon walked Buster Posey, The Giants crept back as De- But soon the crowd began chanting me wear this uniform one more day.’ Be- manager Joe Maddon summoned nard Span doubled and tripled “Papi! Papi!” and “We want Papi! We cause I wasn’t ready for (it) to be over.” closer Aroldis Chapman to try for and scored in the third and fi fth. want Papi!” Ortiz enters retirement after a career a six-out save. Before the game, Maddon Just over 10 minutes later, Ortiz emerged that could land him in Cooperstown, Chapman, who expressed a came through on his hints of ad- from the dugout, walked to the mound and having hit 541 career homers and, this preference to pitch only one in- justing the lineup and sat right doff ed his cap, tears in his eyes. year aside, ranking among the sports all- ning in save situations shortly fi elder Jason Heyward while giv- “I defi nitely want to always show love time postseason performers. after joining the Cubs from the ing Jorge Soler a start in left. to the fans,” Ortiz said. “Once I walked “I can’t ask God for any more than he Yankees, struck out Hunter That necessitated Ben Zobrist to the mound, I started looking around, gave me,” said Ortiz, who signed with Pence. moving to Heyward’s spot in the moment hits you, knowing you’re not the Mariners as an amateur free agent But the meltdown became right, and Zobrist showed great going to be playing baseball [again]. It out of the Dominican Republic in 1992 complete when Conor Gillaspie’s instincts by running quickly to kind of hit me a little bit.” Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) salutes the fans after the loss and made his big-league debut with the drive to right-center cleared the spacious alley in right-center Francona, who managed the Red Sox to against the Cleveland Indians in game three of the 2016 ALDS playoff series. Twins in 1997. “I just turned 17 years old the outstretched glove of Albert to catch a drive by Hunter Pence titles in 2004 and 2007, remains close to and all I wanted to do was have fun at Almora Jr., inserted as part of to end the third. Zobrist made Ortiz. “That was an honour to be on the With the Red Sox, trailing 4-2 in the and two outs. Allen walked Ortiz on four what I do ... I’m happy and proud of go- a double switch, for a two-run another running catch of a drive fi eld for his last game,” Francona said. eighth, Ortiz came up with a runner on pitches, then fell behind Hanley Ramirez ing home the way I am right now.” triple. by Pence to end the fi fth.

NFL Aguayo’s last-second FG beats Carolina Panthers

MCT protocol. Derek Anderson passed for THREE WHO MATTERED but the Panthers forced a three-and- Charlotte 278 yards but threw two interceptions Greg Olsen: A favourite of Anderson’s out. Later, he was intercepted on fi rst and lost a fumble. The third turnover, in each of his three starts in six seasons and goal from the 1. on fi rst and goal from the 1 with the with Carolina, Olsen had nine catches Anderson did Cam Newton’s Super- ampa Bay Buccaneers kicker score tied at 14 and 8 minutes, 45 sec- for a career-high 181 yards. That’s the man gesture when he came out of the Roberto Aguayo had missed onds to play, was the most crucial. most receiving yards ever in a game by infl atable tunnel after introductions. off the right upright. He had “I think I had him, I’ve just obviously a Panthers tight end. missed to the left. But when got to throw it a little higher,” Ander- Jacquizz Rodgers: With the Bucs’ top WORTH MENTIONING Tthe Carolina Panthers gave the rookie a son said. The guy made a good play. If I two running backs out, 10 of the 15 Time of possession in the fi rst quarter: chance to win the game, he did. could have it back I’d obviously throw it plays on their opening fi eld goal drive 13:11 for the Bucs, 1:49 for the Panthers. Aguayo’s 38-yard fi eld goal on the away. But it’s football. They’ve got good were runs by the 5-foot-6, 205-pound Tampa Bay led only 3-0. game’s fi nal play gave the Bucs a 17-14 players too.” Rodgers. Another was a pass to Rodg- Teddy Williams had an eventful victory over the Panthers on Monday The Panthers are 1-4, with a trip to ers. He had 27 carries in the past two two-play span, with a third-down pass night at Bank of America Stadium. New Orleans to face Drew Brees and the seasons. Rodgers fi nished with 30 car- breakup and contact with Panthers re- Set up by a Bucs drive that started at Saints up next. Since 1990, only eight ries for 101 yards. turn man Ted Ginn Jr. to cause a fumble their 14 and was aided by a facemask of 128 teams that started 1-4 have made Cameron Artis-Payne: A week after on the punt. The Bucs recovered at the penalty on Panthers defensive end the playoff s, although two of the eight having their 30-game streak of at least Carolina 30. Aided by two Bucs pen- Kony Ealy, Aguayo made the kick that came a season ago. 100 yards rushing broken, the Panthers alties, the Panthers forced a 33-yard counted most. Touchdowns on the Panthers’ fi rst had 136, led by Artis-Payne’s 85 yards Aguayo fi eld goal attempt that bounced Aguayo had been 3-for-7 on the sea- two drives of the second half, on Cam- on 18 carries. off the right upright. No harm, no foul. son before the kick, after the Bucs trad- eron Artis-Payne touchdown runs of 1 Aquayo had two 35-yard fi eld goals in ed up in the second round to select the and 12 yards, gave Carolina a 14-6 lead, OBSERVATIONS the fi rst half, and the Bucs led 6-0. Florida State product who was the most but the Buccaneers came right back. Anderson spent most of the night doing The concussion spotters removed accurate kicker in NCAA history. A 26-yard touchdown pass from Ja- just enough to manage the game, but center Joe Hawley from the game for “Look at these guys, they’re happy,” meis Winston to Mike Evans, followed twice in the fourth quarter he tried to one play in the fi nal two minutes. Aguayo said. “At the end of the day it by a two-point conversion, tied the do too much. On third-and-4 from the It was 63 degrees at kickoff . Perfect doesn’t matter how you play, it’s just game at 14. Tampa Bay 44 with the score tied early night for football. Among the Bucs in- the number on the scoreboard.” The Bucs had a chance to take the in the fourth, Anderson couldn’t fi nd actives were three defensive linemen The Panthers were playing without lead with 3:33 to play but Aguayo an open receiver and took off . He was and their top running back. Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, who missed Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicker Roberto Aguayo (19) kicks the game winning field missed a 46-yard fi eld goal wide left, met at the sticks by DaVonte Lambert. were without their starters at quarter- the game while in the NFL’s concussion goal against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. his second miss of the night. Anderson fumbled, Lambert recovered, back, left tackle and running back. Gulf Times Wednesday, October 12, 2016 9 CRICKET

FOCUS Ashwin key to India’s stay at top, says Kohli

AFP (Australia), Andrew Strauss (England), petitiveness of Test cricket,” ICC chief was Ashwin’s fourth successive man- Indore, India Graeme Smith, Hashim Amla (South executive Dave Richardson was quoted of-the-series award and the 30-year- Africa) and Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan). as saying in a release. old felt he has been in peak form. “I India are now four points in the rat- Kohli said off -spinner Ravichandran feel really good about myself. I’ve been kipper Virat Kohli was yester- ings above arch-rivals Pakistan, who Ashwin’s form in a long home season bowling really well and my confi dence day presented with the ICC enjoyed the top spot only briefl y after will be key to how long India can stay is really sky-high,” he said. Test Championship mace as Misbah received the mace last month at the top of the Test rankings. Ashwin A shrewd spinner known for his India were offi cially crowned in Lahore. claimed 13 wickets in the fi nal Test to penchant for outwitting key batsmen, Sthe number one side after their 3-0 “I’ve got a few man-of-the-match spin India to a comprehensive victory a reputation he enhanced by dismiss- thrashing of New Zealand. awards, so have the boys. This is much and bag the man-of-the-match award. ing Kiwi captain Kane Williamson in India, who had reclaimed the top more special. The last time India got His 27 wickets from three matches also both innings in Indore, Ashwin ex- spot in the world Test rankings after the mace, I was watching on TV,” said a earned him his seventh man-of-the- ploited footmarks and varied pace in taking an unassailable 2-0 series lead delighted Kohli. “The key right now is series award in 14 series, underlining another spin masterclass. in Kolkata, won the third and fi nal Test maintaining our game. We’re working the spinner’s importance in the side. “It was a wicket where you had to by 321 runs yesterday to consolidate really hard on the areas needing im- “It’s an exciting thing to talk about work hard, be patient and bowl good their position. provement and we’ve been able to cor- his stats out there in the middle, it’s a lines,” Ashwin said, also explain- Batting legend and ICC Hall of Fam- rect the wrongs quickly and we’d like to topic of discussion for us,” Kohli said at ing why he bowled slower than usu- er Sunil Gavaskar presented Kohli with continue that and give the people what the presentation ceremony. “He’s been al. “This wicket didn’t have a lot of the mace on behalf of the International they want to see.” a champion. I hope he can keep going bounce. It was not going to short leg Cricket Council at Indore’s Holkar India had replaced Australia at the through this long home season and or backward short leg, so I had to get Stadium. Kohli is only the second India top of the rankings after their series keep the team at the top where we are.” them to drive. captain after Mahendra Singh Dhoni win against the West Indies in August, The series against New Zealand “I got a bit of footmarks outside and the 10th overall to receive the mace only to be leapfrogged by Pakistan marked the beginning of India’s bump- right-hander’s off -stump and I wanted since its introduction in 2001. later. “The number one ranking has er 13-Test home season and Ashwin’s to get them lunging outside by bowling The others are Steve Waugh, Ricky changed hands three times in as many India captain Virat Kohli (left) and off -spinner Ravichandran Ashwin hold the ICC Test form would be crucial again when a lot wider outside off -stump and the Ponting, Michael Clarke, Steve Smith months, indicative of the current com- Championship mace after winning the third Test against New Zealand. (Reuters) England and Australia come calling. It results are there to see.”

THIRD TEST BANGLADESH vs ENGLAND Buttler bust-up will fi re up deciding Ashwin wrecks NZ game, says Moeen AFP ladesh are good at home anyway, Chittagong, Bangladesh any ground at home. It just eggs us on to score big runs and win,” he said. “It’s going to be a tough he on-pitch bust-up game for us, we know that, they again with 7 wkts as between England’s Jos should have probably won the fi rst Buttler and Bangladeshi game, they let us off a little bit. We fi elders during the sec- still have our best to come.” ondT one-day international will Bangladesh lost Friday’s fi re up both teams for the series opening encounter by 21 runs, decider, visiting batsman Moeen seeing six wickets fall for 17 runs Ali said yesterday. and being dismissed for 288 in England face Bangladesh in reply to England’s 308-9. India sweep series the third and fi nal match of the Meanwhile, England cricket series in the port city of Chit- coach Trevor Bayliss said he tagong today, hoping to end the hoped captain Buttler would Off ie’s career-best match figures of 13-140 help India skittle out New Zealand, chasing a hosts’ unbeaten run in their last stay out of trouble in the future. six home ODI series. “It is not the fi rst time we have daunting 475-run target, for 153 in their second innings and complete 3-0 whitewash The series, currently level at seen it in international cricket 1-1, hit the headlines when But- and probably won’t be the last,” tler reacted angrily to celebra- Bayliss said. “He (Buttler) got a tions upon his dismissal in Sun- slap on the wrist and I am sure he Ravichandran Ashwin (3rd left) celebrates day’s match, which his side lost will be doing his best to stay out with teammates after dismissing New Zealand by 34 runs. The International of trouble in the future.” captain Kane Williamson (not in pic) during Cricket Council cautioned But- The 53-year-old said the elec- the fourth day’s play of the third Test at the tler for his reaction and docked tric atmosphere in the sub-con- Holkar Stadium in Indore yesterday. (AFP) 20% of Bangladesh captain tinent often brings out extra pas- Mashrafe Mortaza and Sabbir sion in a tense game. “I think when Rahman’s match fees for their playing in the sub-continent with part in the incident. “Now both the crowds and the heat and that teams will be wanting to win type of thing some of these things more than before,” Ali told re- can get out of proportion a little porters during a news conference bit. We have got to be on the look in Chittagong yesterday. out to make sure it does not dis- Buttler’s dismissal was pivotal tract us from the way we want to on Sunday, with England starting play the game and concentrating badly while chasing Bangladesh’s on what we do.” total of 238-8. The visiting skip- Bayliss added that he had noth- per was threatening to turn the ing against standing up for one- match with a run-a-ball innings self and the team in the right way. of 57 that ended controversially. “I don’t encourage it but that is On-fi eld umpire Sharfud- human nature. The way in which doula Saikat had initially turned we react and what we might say down pacer Taskin Ahmed’s lbw in those heated situations is what appeal against Buttler. Bang- the ICC are trying to crack down ladesh then sought a television on and rightly so. It is in front of a review, which confi rmed the ball worldwide audience and we are all that hit Buttler’s back foot would there as role models for the young strike the middle-stump, and the kids coming through,” he said. “I skipper trudged back to the pa- have nothing against question- vilion to leave England on 123-7. ing or standing up for yourself but The verdict triggered high spir- just the way we do approach it and its in the Bangladesh camp and what we do say.” several players exchanged words Bayliss hoped that the crucial with Buttler, forcing the umpires last match will not be aff ected to immediately intervene. “Hope- by the incident. “It is a deciding fully both teams will behave well game. I don’t think that incident and we can look back at the series in the last game will have too and say this was a very good crick- much eff ect. They are profes- eting series,” Ali said. sional players. They have all been He hoped Bangladesh’s recent through it before. I think if any- home record — losing four match- one gets caught up in that type of es out of 22 since November 2014 thing I think it will be an advan- — would inspire England. “Bang- tage to the other team.” AFP Cheteshwar Pujara had put the hosts on Indore, India Scoreboard T Latham lbw Yadav ...... 6 course to set New Zealand a daunting vic- No apology, says Bangladesh skipper Mortaza M Guptill lbw Jadeja ...... 29 tory target at India’s newest Test venue, India (1st innings) ...... 557-5 decl. K Williamson lbw Ashwin ...... 27 Indore’s Holkar Stadium. pinner Ravichandran Ashwin New Zealand (1st innings) ...... 299 R Taylor b Ashwin ...... 32 Pujara struck an unbeaten 101 as India, claimed seven wickets to lead In- India (2nd innings, overnight 18-0) L Ronchi b Ashwin ...... 15 who started the day on 18 without loss, dia’s whitewash of New Zealand M Vijay (run out) 19 J Neesham c Kohli b Jadeja ...... 0 declared their second innings on 216 for as the hosts romped to a 321-run G Gambhir c Guptill b Patel ...... 50 BJ Watling (not out) ...... 23 three in the afternoon session. Pujara, victoryS on the fourth day of the third and who recorded his eight Test hundred, put C Pujara (not out) ...... 101 M Santner b Ashwin ...... 14 fi nal Test yesterday. V Kohli lbw Patel ...... 17 J Patel b Ashwin ...... 0 on 76 for the second wicket with Gautam Ashwin with career-best match fi g- A Rahane (not out) ...... 23 M Henry c Shami b Ashwin ...... 0 Gambhir (50). ures of 13-140 helped India skittle out Extras (b4, lb1, w1) ...... 6 T Boult c&b Ashwin ...... 4 “If you see Pujara hitting a fast bowler the visitors, who were chasing a daunting Total (3 wkts decl, 49 overs) ...... 216 Extras (b2, nb1) ...... 3 back over his head, it is the best example 475-run target, for 153 in under two ses- Fall of wickets: 1-34, 2-110, 3-158 Total (all out, 44.5 overs) ...... 153 of expressing yourself. This is a proper sions of play at Indore. Ashwin, the high- Bowling: Boult 7-0-35-0, Patel 14-0-56- Fall of wickets: 1-7, 2-42, 3-80, 4-102, team series win. It wasn’t just one indi- est wicket-taker in the three Tests with 2, Santner 17-1-71-0, Henry 7-1-22-0 (1w), 5-103, 6-112, 7-136, 8-138, 9-138, 10-153 vidual,” said Kohli. 27 scalps, was named both man-of-the- Neesham 4-0-27-0 Bowling: Shami 7-0-34-0, Yadav 8-4-13-1, India had already gained the upper angladesh captain Mashrafe Stokes apparently refused match and player-of-the-series. New Zealand (2nd innings) Ashwin 13.5-2-59-7, Jadeja 16-3-45-2 hand after bowling out New Zealand for BMortaza yesterday refused to to shake hands with Tamim India, who climbed to the top of the 299 in response to their massive fi rst in- apologise to England for his team’s Iqbal and engaged in a heated world Test rankings after their series- nings score of 557 for fi ve declared. Koh- celebrations after Jos Buttler’s argument with the Bangladesh clinching win in Kolkata, remain in said Indian skipper Virat Kohli. “And Ross Taylor showed some aggressive in- li’s second Test double-century paved the dismissal during Sunday’s second opener. Mortaza said he had number one position ahead of Pakistan. that’s the diff erence: this team is up, we tent with 32 off 25 balls including vefi fours way for India’s dominance as he regis- one-day international match in seen video footage of the row New Zealand, whitewashed in India get wickets in bunches. We have that at- and a six, but did not last long before he tered his career-best score of 211. Mirpur. “Actually we didn’t do and defended Iqbal, while add- for the second successive time after their titude and we do get the results.” was bowled by another Ashwin turner. The star batsman put on a record 365- anything wrong so we shouldn’t ing that he hoped the Buttler 2-0 loss in 2012, suff ered an early blow Ashwin, who registered his 21st fi ve- Left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja soon run fourth-wicket partnership with Ajinkya apologise,” Mortaza said. “We incident would not aff ect their when Umesh Yadav trapped opener Tom wicket haul in Tests, took charge in the joined forces with Ashwin to dash New Rahane (188) to keep the New Zealand just celebrated what we’ve felt. form in the crucial final match. Latham lbw for six. The visitors took tea evening session to remove skipper Kane Zealnd’s hopes of surviving the day af- bowlers on the fi eld for close to six sessions. We don’t have to say sorry for “Our team is completely nor- on 38 for one but lost nine more wickets Williamson for 27. ter getting the all-important wickets of “We wanted to show better cricket that. Whatever happened, match mal and I am hundred per cent in the fi nal session of play. It was the fourth time in a row that he Martin Guptill and James Neesham. Ash- than we did, but full credit to India. They referee was there (to judge it).” sure that my team is not think- “The bowlers have responded beauti- had dismissed the Black Caps’ star bats- win then disposed of the tail as the hosts outplayed us in all areas and we have to England showed their anger ing about this,” the Bangladeshi fully every time we’ve been in pressure. man, who missed the second Test due to celebrated their 3-0 series triumph. weather these wounds,” said a disap- even after the match, as Ben captain said. Someone has always put up their hand,” a viral infection. Earlier in the day, a century by pointed Williamson. Gulf Times 10 Wednesday, October 12, 2016 SPORT

BASKETBALL Winning start for Qatar in Sail Qatar Championship Former PBA star Gelig lift s KBAS to victory

By Sports Reporter KBAS tried to make an early rally at Doha the start of the fourth quarter but the opposing squad managed to crawl back within a fi ghting single-digit distance he heroics of former Philippine to be in contention of the game. Basketball Association star Gelig led his team with 23 points Nino Gelig in the end game put while Calo on the other side rallied his team KBAS Batangas in a with 20 points. Tconvincing eight-point win over Lucky In the other game, the star-studded Seven, 75-67, as the elimination rounds Light Scribe took a commanding tri- heat up in the Premiere Division of umph over Monte Vista with 14-point Nissan Cup 2016 hosted by Pinoy Bas- advantage, 91-77. ketball of Qatar (PIBAQ). Led by Paul David with 17 points, Gelig’s crucial 4-point baskets, con- Light Scribe dominated most part of versions in the free throw line and a short the game, pulling away with a 12-point jumper, with over a minute left in the edge early in the second quarter. game gave them a comfortable 13-point Since then, the eventual winners edge that proved to be the turning point never looked back even as Monte Vista of their hard-earned victory. tried to stage a comeback in a mini rally Lucky Seven’s top scorer Khim Calo but this was not good enough as time tried to strike a comeback with his also ticked away until the fi nal buzzer three-point basket with less than a was sounded. Qatar A team won the Optomist Team Racing category on the first day of Sail Qatar Championship 2016, beating India, while Qatar B picked up the third spot minute left but that was all that they The Nissan 21st Season Men’s at Katara yesterday. Ghanem al-Suwaidi, Khairuddin Bouchama, Ali Sharshani and Abdullah Sharshani formed Qatar A, while Mohamed Sharshani, Mohsen could muster to inch closer in their Championship Cup of Pinoy Basket- Sharshani, Yassin Benzarti and Remy Dorajsa were in Qatar B. defi cit as time was already ticking away ball of Qatar (PIBAQ) is presented by towards the fi nal buzzer. McDonald’s Qatar. The tournament is The game was actually tight as both supported by Qatar Basketball Federa- squads refused to budge and were en- tion and the Philippine Embassy in Qa- FOCUS gaged in unnerving trading of baskets tar and co-Sponsored by Alicafe, Diana for most part of the game. The scores Jewellery and Watches, GO Sports, were levelled four times — once in the Philippine Airlines, Filipino Commu- fi rst quarter, twice in the second and nity Center, Fraser Suites Hotel and Josoor helping to create once in the third. Shuttersbug Photography. a regional sports industry, says Comolli ‘The main legacy element of any mega sporting event is people’

ormer Tottenham and Liver- pool director of football Dam- ien Comolli has highlighted the Josoor Institute’s contri- butionsF towards professionalisation of the sports industry in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region. Talking on the sidelines of his Josoor Institute-organised lectures on lead- ership and management in Doha, Co- molli also said that 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar is an event which will create an economic legacy for the country. “The 2022 FIFA World Cup will be a seminal moment in the diversifi ca- tion of Qatar’s economy into a sus- tainable, knowledge-based one,” said Comolli, who signed Gareth Bale and Luis Suarez during his stints with the Premier League giants. “Therefore, it is appropriate that Josoor, the region’s pioneering institute in the sports in- dustry, will have a substantial role to play in this economic transformation.” The Frenchman, who at 32 was the youngest person to be appointed di- rector of football at a Premier League club when he took over at Tottenham in 2005, pointed to the importance of education as a major legacy element Nino Gelig of KBAS Batangas rises to score against Lucky Seven during their for any major tournament, and said Premiere Division match in the Nissan Cup 2016. PICTURE: Ronnie Castro Qatar could provide a regional bench- Wenger as the European talent scout gave them no chance against the an extended period of time before the mark in that regard. for Arsenal between 1996 and 2003, mighty Soviet Union in the fi nal. But start of the World Cup and thereby “The main legacy element of any said that the Qatar national team could they turned the apparent weakness to develop a common culture by sharing mega sporting event is people and the also aim for a competitive perform- strength by developing a strong bond their thoughts and experiences.” Ex-captain Streak is new Zimbabwe coach 2022 World Cup will be no diff erent. It ance on home turf: “Qatar could aim within the unit. Coach Guus Hiddink Will Comolli’s own legacy to world will give an impetus to Josoor in creating to maximise their performance along did something similar with South Ko- football be the signing of Bale and AFP a robust sports industry by broadening the lines of South Korea’s achievement rea in 2002, taking them to the semi- Suarez at Tottenham and Liverpool Harare the knowledge base of the people of Qa- at home in the 2002 FIFA World Cup fi nals against all odds. He identifi ed a respectively? “I have never thought tar and the region, and facilitating their and that of the US ice hockey team core group from the K-League early about myself thus,” he said. “I am very Former Zimbabwe captain Heath interaction with professionals from in the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake on and got them to train together right proud of where both of them are today. Streak has been appointed national those parts of the world where sport is a Placid. up until the tournament. The result All I can say is that we created condu- cricket head coach to replace Dav mature industry.” “The American team was a bunch spoke for itself. The Qatar national cive environments in which they could Whatmore who was dismissed in Comolli, who reported to Arsene of collegiate students and the world team could train and live together for maximise their talent.” (SC.qa) June. “Zimbabwe Cricket has named former captain Heath Streak as the SPOTLIGHT new national head coach,” Zimba- bwe Cricket (ZC) said in a statement yesterday. The 42-year-old was unveiled at Embattled Team Sky get support from sponsor a press conference in Zimbabwe’s second largest city Bulawayo after AFP peutic use exemption (TUE) from cy- Sky, I sent a message to the Team over that the rules allowed them that an- accepting a two-year contract. “For London cling authorities for the powerful cor- the weekend to assure them of Sky’s gered him. me, having captained this country, to qualify for the 2019 ICC World Cup. ticosteroid triamcinolone to combat support. “Like I said already on my Twit- to be off ered the post of head coach His immediate assignments are a his asthma. “Here’s what I said: ‘Keep your ter a few weeks ago, when WADA was is a great honour and I know with it two-match Test series at home to Sri eam Sky received some wel- Wiggins was permitted to take feet firmly on the ground and stay fo- hacked the fi rst time and before the comes responsibility not just to the Lanka, and a one-day international come news on Monday amidst it just days before the 2012 Tour de cused on what’s important. For Team Wiggins story, there is a major prob- players but to the fans and support- tri-series involving West Indies. the negative headlines regard- France, which he won, as well as the Sky that’s racing and winning, the lem with TUEs,” Roche told cycling- ers of Zimbabwe cricket as well,” “I feel that with the upcoming series ing their former star Bradley 2011 Tour and the 2013 Giro d’Italia. right way. That’s what we’ve done news.com. Streak said. and the latter half of next year we TWiggins with the unequivocal support He and Team Sky are also reportedly from the start and that’s what we’ll “There is a problem with the actual “My promise is, I will leave no stone have some really good cricket com- from its main sponsor, media heavy- at the centre of an inquiry by United continue to do in future. I can assure system. Again, you can do whatever unturned in terms of our endeavour ing up so we can really work towards weights Sky. Kingdom Anti-Doping. you of Sky’s full and continued sup- you want against Wiggins, but unfor- and our quest to improve the team’s improving,” he said. “I do see a Graham McWilliam, deputy head of The Daily Mail claimed last week port. There is no equivocation on our tunately, as far as ethically it’s wrong, performances. I believe that we have strong future. Obviously things don’t Sky News and chairman of the Team UKAD wanted to question him and part. We trust you, we believe in you he is within the rules. the resources here in Zimbabwe to just happen overnight. It’s a process Sky board, tweeted he had sent a mes- his Team Sky bosses over a medical and we remain as excited about this “It is wrong that these rules are like do just that and planning is obviously but I know that process can happen sage of support to the team over the package delivered to the British outfi t sport as ever.’” that. That’s where the main problem going to be a major factor,” Streak quickly and for me that will be a big weekend telling them to stay focussed ahead of the 2011 Tour de France. However, Team Sky cyclist Nicolas is. added. goal to facilitate that.” on the important things such as win- However, McWilliam made no bones Roche, son of Stephen who is the last “Once we get those rules right, Streak previously coached a local Streak replaces caretaker coach ning. in his message that Sky were fully be- rider to achieve the Tour de France and there won’t be any abuse, but that’s cricket team and had stints as bowl- Makhaya Ntini with the South African The team has been subjected to hind the team, which has won four of Giro double back in 1987, criticised the the priority,” added the 32-year-old ing coach for Bangladesh and Zimba- returning to his role as bowling negative headlines for obtaining for the past fi ve Tour de France titles. decision by Team Sky to apply for the Irishman, who is to ride for BMC Rac- bwe. He takes over as Zimbabwe bid coach. British cycling great Wiggins a thera- “With all the noise around Team TUE, although he added it was more ing next season. Gulf Times Wednesday, October 12, 2016 11 SPORT

FOCUS Dominant McNulty makes junior time trial his own American finishes 35 seconds ahead of Denmark’s Bjerg, while compatriot Garrison completes podium

Brandon McNulty of the United States (centre) beat Denmark’s Mikkel Bjerg (left) and Ian Garrison, also of the United States, for victory in the men’s junior individual time trial event at the UCI Road World Championships Doha 2016 yesterday. PICTURES: Jayaram

By Yash Mudgal Doha The competitions are off to a great start: Sheikh Khalid

t was a good day for US riders as By Sports Reporter Brandon McNulty picked up the Doha men’s junior individual time trial title while compatriot Ian Garrison Ialso fi nished on the podium. he UCI Road World Champion- McNulty, 18, rode the course in 34 ships Doha 2016 is well and minutes 42 seconds, good enough for Ttruly underway. The first three a 35-second triumph over Denmark’s days of competition threw up some McNulty surges towards the finish line yesterday. Mikkel Bjerg. stunning races and unpredictable “It was a very hard race, but I pulled results. his countryman in 35:35.37. “The sun was too strong and I was off the gold medal. I conserved my en- UCI Road World Championships Doha “I’m very happy because this medal so tired towards the end of the race,” ergy initially and started pushing hard 2016 chairman Sheikh Khalid bin Ali was unexpected. I wasn’t even in the Brunel explained. from the 10th minute. From then on, it al-Thani said he expected the compe- top 15 before starting. I began slowly, Stefan Bissegger, who had started was all or nothing for me. I’m so glad I titions to toughen in the coming days. conserved my energy and pushed hard two minutes ahead of McNulty, also won,” said McNulty, who fi nished third “The competition is off to a great towards the end,” stated the bronze saw the American passing by. The at last year’s Worlds in Richmond. start. The first three days’ races medallist. Swiss rider, who was fourth in the Eu- McNulty saw last year’s gold and sil- proved to be strong and I am hoping Bjerg took silver in 35:17.47 and his ropean Championships, fi nished 35th ver medallists Leo Appelt of Germany it will get even more exciting in the compatriot Julius Johansen fi nished in 37:59.97. and Adrien Costa of USA respectively, coming days. Personally, I am looking fourth in 35:44.84. His compatriot Marc Hirschi, who progress to the Under-23 ranks, and forward to the men and women’s elite “It was a pretty hard race and I took silver in the European Champion- conquered the second American gold races as well as the Ride Of Champi- pushed from the start. I’m still young ships, fi nished eighth in 36:25.99. medal in this event after Phinney pre- ons event.” and I can always come back again next The men’s individual time trial will vailed in 2007. “Last week, it was a lot cooler in Doha year. I’m really happy,” Johansen said. take place today. Starting last from the ramp, McNulty because of winds. But the wind sud- Norwegian Iver Knotten, who had left no doubts on The Pearl circuit. The denly stopped blowing and tempera- come third in the recent European RESULTS American set the fastest intermedi- tures climbed. However, it is still well Championships, took sixth place in JUNIOR MEN’S INDIVIDUAL TIME ate times in all sections to fi nish the within UCI-approved standards. We 36:15.28. TRIAL 28.9km course in 34:42.29, averaging are expecting weather conditions to European Champion and pre-race 1. Brandon Mcnulty (USA) 34:42.29 49.964 kilometres per hour. improve soon,” he said. favourite Alexys Brunel could not im- 2. Mikkel Bjerg (DEN) +35.18 McNulty extended his lead to eight The off icial wished the best of luck press on the world stage. The 18-year- 3. Ian Garrison (USA) +53.08 seconds at the midpoint, and then took to competitors. “We are proud to be onships Doha 2016. I hope riders will perience as well. I wish them a fruitful old French prodigy started second-last, 4. Julius Johansen (DEN) +1:02.55 fl ight in the third quarter of the course, hosting the UCI Road World Champi- find our event to be a rewarding ex- competition in Qatar,” he signed off . but his chances of a medal were dashed 5. Ruben Apers (BEL) +1:24.05 stretching his advantage to 30 seconds from the early stages of the race. De- 6. Iver Knotten (NOR) +1:32.99 over Bjerg by the fi nal check point. The spite the one-minute gap, he was over- 7. Awet Habtom (ERI) +1:40.02 American gave a visual demonstration kilometres, and he punched the air as “I’m from Arizona, so I’m used to 10th minute. From then on, it was all or hauled by McNulty and eventually fi n- 8. Marc Hirschi (SUI) +1:43.70 of his dominance by catching his one he crossed the line in the day’s fastest the heat. I conserved my energy ini- nothing for me,” McNulty said. ished with a disappointing 34th place 9. Jaka Primozic (SLO) +1:53.95 and two-minute men in the closing time. tially and started pushing hard from the Garrison fi nished 53 seconds behind in 37:57.21. 10. Jarno Mobach (NED) +2:00.53

BOTTOMLINE Confi dent Dennis looking forward to individual time trial

By Sports Reporter Tour. In the Tour of Britain I did not mountainous, just hilly. It’s all power. Doha win, but it was a diff erent course to I have the power, but I have to work what this is, and I was somehow a lit- harder than someone who’s heavier.” tle bit cautious with the rain. It was not ohan Dennis is not afraid of really worth risking a crash. So I had a NEW BIKE the heat, when he aims at the good prep and I just have to keep the BMC racing rode the Team Time Trial title in the Individual Time ball rolling.” on brand new time trial bikes. This Trial at the UCI Road World will help Dennis in the ITT too. “The ChampionshipsR Doha 2016. USUAL SUSPECTS bike is good, I do really like it. We can “Suck it up and just deal with it. To Despite the absence of both Can- feel it’s fast. Technically for us it could be honest, it’s all in your head,” the cellara and Froome, Dennis expects be better, but we have to go through 26-year-old Australian says. “You’ll fierce competition at The Pearl. “The UCI legal, that’s the rules. This bike suff er a bit more, but if you just try to usual suspects will be there: Tom Du- is a real improvement to the old bike. forget about that heat… It is what it is.” moulin, Tony Martin. Vasil Kiryienka The front end has less frontal surface. Dennis, who won silver with BMC for sure wants to try to defend his ti- The base bar, much like most time trial Racing on the opening day of the World tle. He’s not had the best season, but bikes these days, goes straight to the Championships in Qatar, heads into neither did Cancellara before Rio. You top tube. It’s quicker and more aerody- the Individual Time Trial as one of the can never rule out someone as good namic. But in the end the best judge will podium favourites. The winner of last as him. And there’s Jonathan Castro- be Wednesday.” year’s prologue in the Tour de France viejo, who won the European Cham- Changing material just ahead of an came fi fth at the Olympic Games in Rio pionships. It’s an open playing field important race does not worry Dennis: de Janeiro, but Fabian Cancellara (gold) and there’s always underdogs who can “It’s a challenge, but at the same time and Chris Froome (bronze) will not come up, just like (Adriano) Malori we’ve got good mechanics and they’ve compete on The Pearl circuit. did last year.” made sure our positions are exactly the same as on the older time machines. KEEP THE BALL ROLLING PAN FLAT I’m not too worried about that. I could Dennis is confi dent after winning the Dennis thinks the pan fl at Doha course ride a bike that’s got a round frame, individual time trial at the Eneco Tour will not be very much to his advantage. completely diff erent. As long as the po- in the Netherlands: “Things have been “It does suit me, but it would make it sition is exactly the same I’m able to put good for me, obviously in the Eneco easier if it was a little more hilly, not that power out.”

Wednesday, October 12, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

UCI ROAD WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS DOHA 2016 Ageless Neben clinches rainbow aft er eight years American, at 41 years, becomes second oldest winner of the women’s world individual time trial event

Asian Athletics Federation president Dahlan al-Hamad (centre) and Belgian cycling legend Eddy Merckx on the podium yesterday.

Olympic Road Race and the Individ- “I am satisfi ed, because I left it all out ual Time Trial at the recent European there on the course. Silver is silver and Championships, could not impress. Amber was simply better. Yeah, I won’t She fi nished 13th. say I am happy with it, but satisfi ed, I Katrin Garfoot of Australia found have to be satisfi ed,” the Dutch rider something in the fi nal couple of kilo- who fi nished fourth in the Rio Games Amber Neben (centre, also below) of the United States won women’s elite individual time trial ahead of Ellen van Dijk (left) of the Netherlands and Katrin Garfoot of Aus- metres to win bronze and Annemiek said. tralia at the UCI Road World Championships Doha 2016 yesterday. PICTURES: Jayaram van Vleuten, who cracked three bones “In Rio I was close to the gold, but in her neck only two months ago in the I screwed it up myself, but this time, I By Yash Mudgal Rio Olympic time trial, was on course would have loved to take the rainbow Doha for a fairytale bronze medal for much stripes, but I didn’t. It’s a Time Trial, I of the race, but was eventually edged love the Time Trial because it’s such an down into the fi fth. honest discipline, the best girl wins and eteran Amber Neben pro- Neben, who survived a bout of spi- today that was Amber.” duced a stunning perform- nal meningitis at the age of four, leaving Van Dijk seemed to be on course to ance to become a double world her in a coma for three days and doctors beat Neben’s time, when she set the champion yesterday. fearing brain damage if she survived, has fastest intermediate times at the fi rst VThe 41-year-old rider, who had plans to give back something to the game. two sections, but she couldn’t hold on claimed the women’s world time trial “I will race a little bit next year. I’d to that advantage. At the third split she gold in 2008, was crowned champion like to target some big races. I would was two seconds behind. With Neben once more after winning the 28.9km also like to start a team in the US to pair watching nervously from the hot seat, test in searing Doha heat with a time of with my UCI team to help some young- Van Dijk crossed the fi nish line 5.99 36 minutes 37.04 seconds. er riders. And also I’d like to talk about seconds adrift. “It’s unbelievable,” a delighted but some issues that young high school “There are always things you can im- emotionally spent Neben said before girls might have with depression and prove, my corners were not perfect, but the medal ceremony. use our stories as athletes to help those it’s not that something went dramati- Neben left the cycling world in awe of people. I have the passion in my heart cally wrong like in Rio, so this was it for her longevity and perseverance as she to be able to encourage young people to today,” the 29-year-old rider said. became the second oldest women ever set goals to persevere,” she said. When asked what the diff erence be- to win the event after France’s Jeannie Neben’s victory completed a brilliant tween Neben and her today, she said, “I Longo, who won aged 42 in 2001. year for US women’s time trilling, after think the diff erence is pretty obvious. It “It was a long wait. I think I used her fellow veteran Kristin Armstrong’s was six seconds.” more energy sitting there (waiting for won gold in Rio. the other riders to fi nish) than I did on Comparing her 2008 victory with RESULTS the bike. I was so nervous. It was so yesterday’s, she said, “This one is more WOMEN’S TIME TRIAL hard to watch. The diff erence today was special, simply because the journey 1. Amber Neben (US) 36:37.04” the mental perseverance. This one was over the last eight years. After I won in 2. Ellen van Dijk (Netherlands) +5.99” more special because of everything that 2008, I had a series of two or three years 3. Katrin Garfoot (Australia) +8.32” has happened between 2008 and now,” with really bad accidents, having to get 4. Olga Zabelinskaya (Russia) +11.52” said the American who was not among up and not giving up multiple times. 5. Annemiek van Vleuten (Netherlands) the title contenders. I’m almost at the end of my career and +25.79” Dutch woman Ellen van Dijk came up then to come back from that and fi ght 6. Lisa Brennauer (Germany) +57.59” just short yet again, but her epic battle through it and still be here has been 7. Trixi Worrack (Germany) +1:11.14” with Neben was the highlight of the race. the hottest moment of the day. German ment. Both the German and the Dutch second best time. The German eventu- special. God’s blessed me with a victory 8. Ann-Sophie Duyck (Belgium) +1:27.96” “I feel for Ellen, but am so excited for Trixi Worrack and Dutch Annemiek girl were waiting in medal positions for ally ended up sixth in 37:48.18. and I’m humble.” 9. Katarzyna Pawlowska (Poland) myself,” Neben said. van Vleuten rode just before her, both quite a while, with Worrack pushed out Last year’s silver medallist Anna Van Dijk said she was “satisfi ed” +1:36.49” Neben started halfway the fi eld, at setting the best time until that mo- of the hot seat when Van Dijk rode the van der Breggen, who won this year’s with silver. 10. Alena Amialiusik (Belarus) +1:41.59”

FOCUS Dumoulin puts heat on Martin in world title tilt

AFP day’s team time-trial event. Doha And he has been in very special training for the Doha heat, with which he claims to have no great problem. om Dumoulin goes in search “It’s all about percentages, I’ve been of his fi rst world championship training on rollers in a heated room,” he time-trial title in Qatar today, a explained. result that would overturn cy- Last year’s champion at Richmond, Tcling’s established order. United States was the Belorussian Vasil The 2014 bronze medallist has excelled Kiryienka of Sky, a surprise winner who in time-trials this year, storming to stage has shown poor form of late, even so, the wins in both the Tour de France and the English bookmakers odds show he is their Giro d’Italia. tip to win. He then came agonisingly close to gold Other potential winners include Jonath- in Rio, edged into second in the time-trial an Castroviejo, who won the European by Swiss specialist Fabian Cancellara, who time-trial event last month in Plumelec, has since retired. France. In Rio, Dumoulin, 25, also beat time trial And another challenge could come from rival Chris Froome, another who will be the man who fi nished second in the Tour absent from the race in Qatar. of Britain’s time trial is Rohan Dennis. The tall, lean rider with the upright cy- The 26-year-old Australian is becoming cling style posted on Twitter “That was a a major force at time-trial events and last hot ride” after the team event earlier this month won the Eneco Tour event. week. That though was over a distance of just And his ambitions go further than this 9.6 kilometres and today’s world title one off race. event will be raced over 40 kilometres. “I want to win a Grand Tour in 2017, I It begins in Lusail, which is being built don’t know which one, possibly the one from scratch, and is where the 2022 foot- with the most time trials in it,” he told Cy- ball World Cup fi nal will be played. cling News last week. Then, just as in the woman’s event, the If he is to win the world title though he race fi nishes on the Pearl-Qatar, an artifi - will have to beat Germany’s Tony Martin, cial island in Doha. a three-time world champion in this dis- UCI organisers could reduce the dis- cipline. the recent Tour of Britain pushing Du- claimed gold in Qatar as part of the Etixx- tance if temperatures get past 38 degrees Germany’s Tony Martin, a three-time world champion in the discipline, The 31-year-old won the time trial at moulin into third place, and has already Quick Step team which triumphed in Sun- Celsius, 100 degrees Fahrenheit. has already claimed gold as part of the Etixx-Quick Step on Sunday.