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Thursday, November 23, 2017 GOLF Rabia I 5, 1439 AH Day urges Tiger GULF TIMES Woods to go easy on comeback SPORT Page 6 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TENNIS Djokovic, Thiem set Hazard, Willian to dazzle at Qatar shine as Chelsea ExxonMobil Open cruise into last 16 Conte’s side beat 10-man Qarabag 4-0, reach knockouts with game to spare

AFP Baku, Azerbaijan

helsea powered into the Champions League last 16 as and Willian in- spired a 4-0 thrashing of 10- manC Qarabag yesterday. Antonio Conte’s side reached the knockout stages with a game to spare thanks to infl uential displays from Hazard and Willian at the Olympic Stadium that knocked Azerbaijanis Qarabag out of the competition. Chelsea will go into their last Group C fi xture against Atletico Madrid, who were scheduled to take on Roma at the Wanda Metropolitano later yesterday, on 10 points and still in with a chance of fi nishing top. Novak Djokovic has won the title in Doha for two straight years — 2016 and 2017. Hazard scored Chelsea’s fi rst-half opener from the penalty spot after his By Sports Reporter The Serbian, whose last major tour- pass to Willian provoked a foul on the Doha nament appearance was at the Wim- Brazilian from Rashad Sadygov, who bledon where he was forced to retire in was sent off as incredulous Qarabag the quarter-fi nal match against Tomas players questioned both the awarding efending champion Novak Berdych, will be looking forward to as- of the penalty and the red card. Djokovic, world No. 5 Domin- suring his numerous fans of his return Willian doubled Chelsea’s lead nine ic Thiem of Austria and world to form with a commendable perform- minutes before the interval, collecting No. 15 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of ance at the tournament. Hazard’s deft back-heeled pass before FranceD are just some of the superstars Thiem, who recently broke into the rolling home. Chelsea’s Willian (right) shoots to score their fourth goal in the UEFA Champions League match against Qarabag in Baku, set to dazzle at the 2018 QatarExxon- top fi ve in the rankings for the fi rst time Cesc Fabregas netted Chelsea’s Azerbaijan, yesterday. (Reuters) Mobil Open. in his career, will be hoping to further third from the spot in the 73rd minute The ATP award-winning event will consolidate his positions among the after another foul on Willian, and the fi rst time since being dropped after a gered his side’s 21st-minute opener. with a fl ick into the path of Willian, be held from January 2-9, 2018, at “big boys”. Brazil international crashed home his reported training ground row with the Threading a pin-point pass behind who guided the ball to Hazard. the Khalifa International Tennis and Other top contenders include Berdych, second in the closing moments. Blues boss following the Roma defeat. the Qarabag defence, Hazard sent The Belgian baffl ed the Qarabag de- Squash Complex in Doha. Richard Gasquet and Fernando Verdasco The English champions were heavi- Willian clear on goal and the Brazil fence with a sublime back-heeled pass Of the 32 singles players and 16 dou- as well as Pablo Carreno Busta. ly criticised after a woeful loss at Roma MICHEL RATTLES WOODWORK winger tumbled into the area after into Willian and he made no mistake bles team featuring in the eight-day “We are delighted to once again in their previous Champions League Conte’s side had thrashed Qarabag Sadygov grabbed at his arm. with a clinical fi nish. event, all eyes are defi nitely going to be bring some of the world best players match, but have now won three in a 6-0 in September, but they almost fell Referee Manuel de Sousa saw Conte’s team struck for a third time on former world No. 1 Djokovic, the 12 to Qatar for another rounds of sensa- row in all competitions. behind early on in Baku when Maksim enough contact to give Chelsea the in the 73rd minute when Gara Garayev Grand Slam-winner, who will be com- tional tennis at the Qatar ExxonMobil Conte had bemoaned the fi xture Medvedev was allowed to advance into penalty and sent off Sadygov. conceded a penalty with a tug on Wil- ing back into the game after a lengthy Open. We’ve always been passionate schedule that sends Chelsea to Liv- the area with little resistance. Qarabag were furious but Hazard lian. injury layoff . about organising the best tournament erpool for a crucial Michel picked up possession and ignored their complaints to stroke Fabregas’s initial spot-kick was Djokovic, who successfully defended and we have been consistent in achiev- game on Saturday, just 48 hours after lashed a fi erce shot against a post be- home the spot-kick for his sixth goal ruled out for encroachment, but the his title last year by defeating the then ing this. The 2018 Qatar ExxonMobil they return to London from the 5,000 fore the rebound was blazed over. in his last seven appearances. Spaniard was unfl ustered as he slotted world no.1 Andy Murray in three sets, Open is once again parading some of mile (8,000 kilometres) round trip to Hazard was nominally Chelsea’s He followed the opener with an ex- home again. Chelsea weren’t done and will be hoping to make it three victo- the strongest fi eld in its category which Azerbaijan. central striker but the Belgian play- travagant touch to help double Chel- Willian capped the rout with a sting- ries in a row in Doha, which has proven is a proof of our commitment over the But he still fi elded a strong side, with maker had freedom to roam and it was sea’s lead in the 36th minute. ing strike from the edge of the area in to be a home away from home for the years,” Tournament Director Karim David Luiz starting in defence for the from a deeper position that he trig- Pedro started the swaggering move the 85th minute. 30-year-old. Alami said.

BASKETBALL Tough ask for Qatar as World Cup qualifying begins

By Sports Reporter miss out, Qatar will have to be at “We have played against them in the was quoted as saying on the Qatar Doha their very best because of the com- past, and we know our ways around Basketball Federation website. petitiveness of the group. them.” “I am pleased with them. We had a Qatar’s form heading into the The shooting guard feels he can short period of the league and some atar’s basketball team be- tournament is also a matter of con- play a big role for Qatar. of them just played for their clubs. It gin the lengthy and dif- cern. In the Asia Cup held in Lebanon “If I am healthy and in shape, I will is just gauging how much you can do fi cult process of trying to in August, Qatar lost all their group defi nitely be ready to start at the SG and how much you can’t do,” added become one of seven teams matches, eventually fi nishing 13th (shooting guard) position,” he said. Lewis who has also coached Thailand inQ Asia to qualify for the FIBA World out of 16 teams in the continent. “I need to improve my stamina and besides being a consultant for the Cup in 2019 with a Group D match “It was a poor performance,” said fastbreak off ense so I can help out my Philippines team. against Kazakhstan at Doha’s Ali bin Qatar star Mizo Amin, who is offi - teammates who alternate with me, “I feel the Qatari players are pretty Hamad Al-Attiyah Arena tomorrow. cially known as Hassan Mohamed. especially guards like Abdulrahman strong and they have good skillsets. Iran and Iraq comprise the oth- “Many players got injured before Saad and Mansour El-Hadari.” Hopefully, if we can expand the talent er teams in the group D in the fi rst and during the tournament, includ- Against the mighty Iranians, how- pool and grow the base of the players, round of qualifying, with the top ing myself. I suff ered a tear in the ever, Mizo is more realistic as they it will help us in the long term.” three advancing to round two, which knee meniscus, but I still played will play on the road against one of Iran, who fi nished second in the will be contested in two groups of six despite the injury. Our naturalised the best teams in the continent. Asia Cup in August – they were beat- teams each. player Sammy Monroe was not able “As for Iran, while I think they en by Australia in the fi nal – are defi - The top three teams from each to participate due to an injury as well, are tough opponents, we know we nitely the favourites to top Group D, group in round two and the seventh he told FIBA earlier this month.” must compete and bring our A-game with Mohamed Jamshidi and Hamed best team will eventually get to play Mizo feels Qatar have a great against them,” he shared. Haddadi leading their campaign. the global event after qualifying ends chance of beating Kazakhstan who Qatar will be guided by their new Both players were chosen for the All- in February 2019. fi nished last in the 16-team Asia Cup. coach, Briton Tim Lewis, who took Star team of the Asia Cup. While on the face of it qualifying “There is a good chance Qatar will charge only two weeks ago. The Qatar-Kazakhstan match to- for the second round appears easy defeat Kazakhstan here at home if “We have an exciting group, with morrow begins at 6pm and entry is as only one team from the group will our team plays as planned,” he said. a good mix of the old and young,” he free to all. Qatar players take part in a training session ahead of the tournament. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, November 23, 2017 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Everton's Postecoglou quits aft er Niasse banned guiding Socceroos to WC for diving AFP London The 52-year-old Australian did not reveal the reason behind his decision verton’s Oumar Niasse AFP “I want to coach abroad. Part of me... will serve a two-match is pretty keen to get stuck back into club ban after his appeal football, working day to day,” he said. against a diving charge “I have loved this job. But it’s been all- wasE rejected, becoming the fi rst n emotional Ange Postecoglou encompassing.” Premier League player to be hit quit as Australia coach yes- The lack of a clear reason for Postec- with a retrospective suspension. terday, just days after guiding oglou’s departure has left commenta- The Senegalese was charged on the team to a World Cup spot tors and fans scratching their heads. Tuesday by the Football Asso- andA leaving them only months to fi nd a “We fi nd you in the walk-in pantry of ciation after he won a contro- replacement for the tournament in Rus- men and women who could not face versial penalty in Saturday’s 2-2 sia. The 52-year-old Australian did not the ultimate examination of their skill draw at Crystal Palace. reveal the reason behind his decision, and temperament,” wrote Patrick Smith “Everton’s Oumar Niasse will which had been widely expected after in The Australian. “We hope desper- serve a two-match suspension he repeatedly refused to deny reports he ately that is not the reason you shoved with immediate eff ect after his was about to stepping down. the job as national coach but you leave denial of an FA charge of ‘Suc- His departure, at the end of a fi ve- your fellow Australians little option... cessful Deception of a Match Of- year contract, leaves the Asian cham- You could have been one of our greatest fi cial’ was rejected,” said a state- pions in turmoil ahead of the June-July sporting treasures. But all we can see is ment from the FA yesterday. “It World Cup, where they will hope to a man looking for a cool room.” was alleged he committed an improve on their three straight defeats The Australian Broadcasting Cor- act of simulation which led to in 2014. Postecoglou gave no details poration’s Dan Colasimone described a penalty being awarded in the about his future plans, beyond saying Postecoglou’s resignation as “weird” fi fth minute of the game against he hoped to coach a club overseas. But and said it had left a “bitter aftertaste”. Crystal Palace on 18 Novem- he said he felt it was “the right time” to “Why would he decline the chance to ber 2017. He denied the charge. leave. “After a great deal of thought and coach his national team on the biggest However, it was found proven soul-searching, I’ve decided that the stage after spending years forging it to following an Independent regu- journey for me ends as Socceroo coach,” fi t his footballing philosophy?” Colasi- latory commission hearing today he told a press conference in Sydney. mone asked. (Wednesday).” “It’s been the biggest privilege of my Australia sealed their fourth straight The ban means Niasse, Ever- life and probably not the ending I had World Cup spot in Sydney last week af- ton’s top scorer, will miss the envisaged when we started, but at the ter defeating Honduras 3-1 in the sec- league games at Southampton same time, knowing it’s the right time ond leg. The win capped a gruelling, on Sunday and at home against for me and the right decision.” 22-match, 29-month qualifying cam- West Ham three days later. Ref- Postecoglou brushed aside questions paign that criss-crossed Asia, the Mid- eree Anthony Taylor awarded about whether he had been aff ected by dle East and Central America. the penalty in Saturday’s game at media criticism, and denied any con- Under Postecoglou, the Socceroos when Niasse went fl ict with Football Federation Australia. won 22 matches out of 49, drawing 12 down in the Palace box after FFA chief executive David Gallop said Australia’s national football coach Ange Postecoglou reacts after announcing his resignation in Sydney yesterday. (AFP) and losing 15. Greek-born Postecoglou, brushing past Eagles defender he was “disappointed and I guess still a who migrated to Australia as a fi ve- Scott Dann, who reacted angrily bit puzzled”, but added: “I’m supportive that we get the right person to fi ll the big early to say if the FFA would appoint an der the Socceroos’ Dutch coaches Guus year-old, was fl ung into the coaching to the decision. Leighton Baines of the notion that sometimes you reach shoes... there’s enormous advantages in interim coach to guide the team through Hiddink and Pim Verbeek, and managed hot seat just months before the last converted the spot-kick to can- a point where you just know that you having an Australian in this position”. the World Cup, or opt for a longer-term the team during the 2007 Asian Cup. World Cup. He was given a fi ve-year cel out James McArthur’s opener need to do something new.” The Socceroos, who beat Syria and appointment. Sydney FC coach and Postecoglou avoided giving details of contract by the FFA after the sacking of for the hosts, and Niasse later “As for the process going forward, we then Honduras in two-legged playoff s Australian Graham Arnold has been where he would coach next, only saying German Holger Osieck, becoming the netted a second equaliser. Dann won’t be rushed,” said Gallop, sitting to seal their World Cup spot, do not play seen as one of the top contenders to re- that “I don’t want to be unemployed for Socceroos’ fi rst full-time Australian said after the game that Niasse alongside Postecoglou. “It’s important again until March. Gallop said it was too place Postecoglou. Arnold worked un- too long”. coach in nine years. had “conned the referee”. Gulf Times Thursday, November 23, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE player’s ‘hat-trick’ aft er hospital dash for son’s birth Real cruise into last London: Wigan’s Ryan Col- thing better,” he told BBC Radio clough had an evening to re- Manchester. member after scoring twice for “I looked at the manager the English League One club and he said ‘we’ll bring you and then dashing to hospital to off now’,” he added. “I went make it in time for the birth of off , straight down the tunnel, his son — still dressed in full kit. grabbed my keys and phone 16, Liverpool blow The 22-year-old winger put and got off to hospital.” the former Premier League side Colclough, who made it to 2-0 up against Doncaster at the hospital with just 30 minutes DW Stadium just before half- to spare, said he had arrived time and netted a second in the “in the nick of time”. Wigan 58th minute in a 3-0 win. chairman David Sharpe shared He was substituted just after news of the safe arrival on Twit- three-goal lead scoring his second before ter, posting: “Congrats to Ryan racing down the tunnel and Colclough who scored a brace dashing to the hospital. “What tonight in our win before being a great result and team eff ort substituted to make it in time Tottenham seal top spot in Group H with a 2-1 victory at Borussia Dortmund from all the boys! I’m so happy to see the birth of his son!” to mark the birth of my second Assistant boss Leam Richard- AFP son with two goals and the win son said: “At half-time we got Paris he made it a hat-trick for me! the message that his missus’ Appreciate all the messages!” waters had broken, his second Colclough tweeted. child. As soon as (he scored) ristiano Ronaldo scored twice He included a picture of the second goal he was off the as holders Real Madrid thrashed celebrations on the pitch, pitch, because his head was APOEL 6-0 in Cyprus to reach mimicking cradling a baby, somewhere else.” Wigan, who the Champions League last 16 and one of him holding his son won the FA Cup in 2013 and onC Tuesday night, while Liverpool blew a Harley Thomas. “I’m still a little were relegated from the Pre- three-goal lead in a thriller at Sevilla. bit overwhelmed by it all, but mier League the same year, are Zinedine Zidane’s Real bounced back it’s a great feeling and I couldn’t second in League One, English from their 3-1 loss at Tottenham Hotspur have wished for it to be any- football’s third tier. last time out by crushing APOEL, with four of the goals coming before half-time. “It was a very good evening for us,” said Zidane. “We’re on the right track. We’re SPOTLIGHT doing things well and we’re building in strength. It’s never easy but it was a com- plete display and we scored quickly.” The record 12-time winners had to wait until Berizzo to continue the 23rd minute to take the lead through Luka Modric, but a run of fi ve goals in 15 minutes either side of half-time sent at Sevilla despite them through in style. Karim Benzema put worries about his recent form to bed with a double either cancer shock side of a Nacho eff ort, before Ronaldo got in on the act after the break. The Portu- AFP guese climbed highest to power a header Seville, Spain into the corner from an inviting Marcelo cross. And the 32-year-old, who has only scored once in eight La Liga appearances panish football rallied this season, scored his eighth Champions round Sevilla’s Argentine League goal this term with an excellent coach Eduardo Berizzo left-footed fi nish from a tight angle. yesterday after the club Tottenham sealed top spot in Group H confiS rmed he has been diagnosed with a come-from-behind 2-1 victory at with prostate cancer a day after Borussia Dortmund. his side staged a dramatic Cham- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang put the pions League comeback against hosts ahead, but with Real’s thumping Liverpool. win sending Dortmund out, Spurs lev- Sevilla’s Guido Pizarro celebrates with teammates after scoring the third goal against Liverpool in the Champions League group “The medical services of Se- elled through Harry Kane and Son He- stage match at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium in Seville, Spain. on Tuesday night. (Reuters) villa FC can inform that the ung-Min curled in a 76th-minute winner. coach of the fi rst team, Eduardo Five-time champions Liverpool threw Elsewhere in Group E, Russian cham- the fi nal round of games and see off Fey- At Seville, Spain: Sevilla (ESP) 3 (Ben Yedder Berizzo, has been diagnosed with away a last-16 spot as Sevilla roared back pions Spartak Moscow saw their chanc- enoord in Rotterdam to progress. 51, 60-pen, Pizarro 90+3) Liverpool (ENG) 3 an adenocarcinoma of the pros- from three goals down at half-time to es hit by an injury-time equaliser in a Turkish champions Besiktas reached (Firmino 2, 30, Mane 22) tate,” Sevilla said in a statement. draw 3-3. Liverpool looked to be cruis- 1-1 home draw with Maribor. Sevilla the last 16 for the fi rst time in 31 years, At Moscow: Spartak Moscow (RUS) 1 (Ze Luis Berizzo, 48, oversaw training ing into the knockout stage for the fi rst will book a last-16 spot for the second as a goal from Talisca secured a 1-1 draw 82) Maribor (SLO) 1 (Mesanovic 90+2) yesterday following his team time since 2008/09 when Roberto Firmi- straight season if they can win in Maribor with Porto in Istanbul to wrap up top spot Group F fi ghting back from three goals no and Sadio Mane both scored from on the fi nal matchday in two weeks’ time, in Group G. Last season’s semi-fi nalists At Manchester, England: Manchester City down at half-time to draw 3-3 fl icked-on corners. while Liverpool have to avoid defeat at Monaco are out of Europe altogether, af- (ENG) 1 (Sterling 88) Feyenoord (NED) 0 with Liverpool at the Sanchez A rout similar to the 7-0 thrashing of home to Spartak. ter a woeful performance and 4-1 home At Naples, Italy: Napoli (ITA) 3 (Insigne 56, Pizjuan stadium on Tuesday Maribor in Slovenia earlier in the group Lorenzo Insigne inspired Italian Se- loss to RB Leipzig. Zielinski 81, Mertens 83) Shakhtar Donetsk night, and Sevilla president Jose phase looked on the cards when Firmi- rie A leaders Napoli to a 3-0 victory over The French champions saw the Ger- (UKR) 0 Castro insisted he will remain in no tapped in number three, but Sevilla Ukrainians Shakhtar Donetsk that kept man tournament debutants race into a Group G charge as long as his duties are staged a stirring second-half comeback. their hopes alive in Group F. Winger In- 3-0 lead through a Jemerson own goal At Istanbul, Turkey: Besiktas (TUR) 1 (Talisca compatible with his treatment. captain Sergio Ramos, himself a Wissam Ben Yedder beat Alberto Moreno signe made the diff erence with a magnifi - and a Timo Werner brace, and although 41) Porto (POR) 1 (Felipe 29) “Berizzo is strong and will former Sevilla player. to nod in a free-kick, before slotting in a cent individual eff ort in the 56th minute, Radamel Falcao pulled one back, Naby At Monaco: Monaco (FRA) 1 (Falcao 43) RB continue while we wait for treat- Berizzo made no statement penalty. And Argentinian Guido Pizarro dancing past two defenders before curl- Keita rounded off a stunning win that Leipzig (GER) 4 (Jemerson 6-og, Werner 9, ment,” Castro said. “It is a per- on his health when speaking to struck in the third minute of injury-time ing into the top corner from 25 yards out. keeps Leipzig in the hunt. 31-pen, Keita 45) sonal matter and we want to media, but news of his cancer to complete the fi ghtback and leave Jur- Further late goals from Piotr Zielinski Leipzig need to better Porto’s result Group H make it clear that he is our coach. diagnosis came just hours after gen Klopp’s visitors defl ated. “Fantastic and Dries Mertens gave their goal diff er- on the last matchday. The Bundesliga At Dortmund, Germany: Borussia Dortmund We will support and rally round his side’s remarkable comeback fi rst half and in the second half we made ence a boost. Manchester City secured runners-up host Besiktas, while two- (GER) 1 (Aubameyang 31) Tottenham Hot- him because we are sure his against Liverpool, with several the mistake that we didn’t continue play- fi rst place in the group with a 1-0 win time European champions Porto take on spur (ENG) 2 (Kane 49, Son 76) problem will be solved.” Sevilla players hailing Berizzo’s ing football,” said Klopp. “We have to over rock-bottom Feyenoord as Raheem Monaco. At Nicosia: APOEL (CYP) 0 Real Madrid (ESP) A former centre-back for powers of motivation to orches- control the game with the ball and we Sterling scored an 88th-minute win- CHAMPIONS LEAGUE RESULTS 6 (Modric 23, Benzema 39, 45+1, Nacho 41, River Plate, Marseille and Celta trate their second-half revival. didn’t play football.” ner. Napoli need City to beat Shakhtar in Group E Ronaldo 49, 54) Vigo among others, Berizzo, Guido Pizzaro struck in the nicknamed Toto, is in his fi rst third minute of injury time to season as Sevilla boss after three keep alive Sevilla’s hopes of top- FOCUS successful years in charge of ping Group E after Wissam Ben Celta. The hashtag AguanteToto Yedder struck twice early in the (staystrongToto) was trending in second half to claw back three Spain with clubs, including Real Liverpool goals in the fi rst half Coleman’s Sunderland debut ends in defeat Madrid and Barcelona, and play- an hour from Roberto Firmino ers sending Berizzo messages of and Sadio Mane. “We had to AFP the season left the northeast side fi rmly League club suff ered yet another loss, down they could have melted and they support. “Be strong boss, you come out with a diff erent at- London rooted to the foot of the table and em- while fellow fallen giants Villa moved up never did.” are in the best place in the world titude for the fans and for the phasised the scale of the task confronting to fourth place in the table. He added: “In these moments this is to not give in because there they boss, he made us play like that,” new manager Coleman, who recently re- “It’s a bit doom and gloom at our place where team spirit comes from. It’s only never give up,” said Sevilla’s ac- said Argentine international Ever hris Coleman’s rescue mission signed as Wales boss after failing to guide at the moment, bottom and with 10 fi rst- us who can fi ght the fi ght, no one is going claimed former sporting director Banega. “He turned the situation to keep Sunderland in English his country to the 2018 World Cup. team players unavailable,” said Coleman. to come and help us.” Monchi, who joined Serie A club around in the second half.” football’s second-tier Champi- Albert Adomah and Joshua Onomah “No excuses, we’re bottom of the league Elsewhere, Sheffi eld United missed out Roma earlier this year. Sevilla sit fi fth in La Liga and onship got off to a losing start as gave Villa a 2-0 lead before Lewis Grab- and sometimes that happens, you have on the chance to go top of the table after “Life brings blows that make need just a point from their fi nal theC Black Cats were beaten 2-1 at Aston ban’s 10th goal of the campaign gave bad news after bad news. It’s only us who losing 5-4 at home to Fulham in an ex- us remember what really mat- Champions League group game Villa on Tuesday night. Sunderland hope they could salvage a are going to get out of it, by hook or by traordinary nine-goal thriller at Bramall ters. We are all with you Beriz- away at Maribor to secure their Sunderland’s eighth league defeat of draw. But instead the former Premier crook. Overall, they had a go and at 2-0 Lane. zo,” said Real Madrid and Spain place in the last 16.

ROUND-UP Real Madrid's Carvajal faces ban for ‘deliberate’ yellow card ani Carvajal could be banned for the pended ban for orchestrating their dismissals. EVERTON FINED FOR League win at Basel on October 31. These fi nes Real Madrid’s Champions League last FAN ATTACK AGAINST LYON come a day after Apoel Nicosia (51,000 euros), 16 fi rst leg after UEFA opened disci- ARGENTINIA'S BAUZA SACKED Everton’s miserable Europa League campaign Olympiakos (60,000 euros) and Borussia plinary proceedings against the right- AS SAUDI ARABIA COACH got worse yesterday as UEFA fi ned the Premier Dortmund (15,000 euros) were fi ned for similar backD for “receiving a yellow card on purpose” The Saudi football federation yesterday dis- League club 30,000 euros after an incident incidents. during Tuesday’s 6-0 rout of APOEL Nicosia. missed Argentinian head coach Edgardo Bauza, in which a fan struck a Lyon player. With two The Spanish international picked up his third just two months after he was appointed to lead rounds to go, the Toff ees are bottom of Group NIGERIA TO PAY $2.4 MILLION booking of the group stage, to trigger an auto- the team following their qualifi cation to next E and cannot qualify for the Europa League WORLD CUP BONUS matic one-match ban, for time wasting in the year’s World Cup in Russia. knock-out stages after three defeats and a draw The Nigeria Football Federation will pay play- 90th minute in Cyprus. However, he will be hit Federation chief Adel Ezzat said the decision in their four matches. ers and offi cials a total of $2.4mn as a bonus with an extra game ban if found guilty of break- to sack Bauza came after a “comprehensive UEFA have punished them over their fans’ for securing qualifi cation for the World Cup ing article 15 of UEFA’s disciplinary regulations technical evaluation” and in light of the team’s “aggressions” against Lyon players as the in Russia, a spokesman said yesterday. “The when his case is heard on December 7. performance in fi ve friendly matches. “The French club won 2-1 at on Octo- NFF have agreed to give the team $2.4mn out Madrid have already secured their place in decision is in the interest of the national team ber 19, when visiting goalkeeper Anthony Lopes of the $8mn we are expecting from FIFA,” said the last 16 behind Tottenham Hotspur in Group (and) refl ects the high expectations from them,” was hit by a supporter who was holding a young Ademola Olajire. H with nothing riding on their fi nal group game the federation said in a statement. child in his arms. The NFF have also agreed other payments at home to Borussia Dortmund on December 6. Bauza was appointed in mid-September, Video footage went viral on social media and benefi ts to the team to avoid a pay row It is not the fi rst time Madrid have been repri- a 4-0 win at Ajax to miss a meaningless match replacing Dutchman Bert van Marwijk, soon and Everton banned the fan while registering a that marred Nigeria’s participation at the 2014 manded by UEFA for provoking suspensions in against Auxerre. after the country sealed qualifi cation for the complaint against him with police. World Cup in Brazil. Next year’s World Cup the Champions League. On that occasion the pair escaped an extra 2018 FIFA World Cup. The Saudi federation Meanwhile CSKA Moscow were fi ned 18,000 will be Nigeria’s sixth appearance at the global In 2010 Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos were ban but were fi ned 20,000 euros each and coach added that it was looking for a new coach for euros because their fans invaded the pitch fi nals and they have reached the knockout charged for getting sent off in the fi nal stages of Jose Mourinho was handed a two-match sus- the national team. and set off fi reworks during a 2-1 Champions rounds three times, in 1994, 1998 and 2014. Gulf Times 4 Thursday, November 23, 2017 CRICKET

SPOTLIGHT Barmy Army has spinner Lyon in their sights AFP sume,” Barmy Army operations in the past few days,” the Ashes in a 5-0 whitewash, Brisbane director Chris Millard told AFP. Millard said, referring to the leaving the English team in dis- “The pubs are packed... and spinner’s comments this week array. we are pretty buzzing for a fi ve- about “ending careers” in the “I’m not sure we are worried ngland’s Barmy Army nil victory to England.” series. about Nathan Lyon,” Barmy Ar- have moved on from the A trumpeter led the chorus for “He’s come out of nowhere, my’s George Gallantree told AFP. devastation of their last the raucous mob, with chants to abusing Matty Prior. The boys “He can say what he likes. Ashes tour Down Under, the backing of English classics, have been practising his songs Let’s see what he says at the end predictingE a victory for the visi- including the Beatles’ “Yellow for a couple of days now and we of the series.” tors, with the vociferous choir Submarine” and “Hey Jude”. are going to get into him,” said The Gabba holds ghosts for setting their sights on Aussie Millard, who is expecting Millard. most visitors, with the Austral- spinner Nathan Lyon. about 600 to join the Barmy Lyon told reporters on Tues- ians having not lost a test there Chanting was underway and Army for day one of the fi rst Test day ahead of the fi rst Test in since November 1988. the beer fl owing at a packed Pig at the Gabba today, said they Brisbane that many in the Eng- Gallantree expects a louder n Whistle pub on the Brisbane have prepared songs to taunt land squad remain shaken by Barmy Army this series, helping river Wednesday night, with the Australian captain Steve Smith left-armer Mitchell Johnson’s England overcome their Gabba supporter group in their hun- and opener David Warner. assault four years ago. demons. dreds full of optimism on the eve But a new villain has emerged But supporters at the Pig n “It’s a tough environment but of the Ashes series. since the support group touched Whistle have moved on from the hopefully we have a lot more “There’s buzzing in the camp, down in Australia this week. crushing defeat of the 2013-14 support this test,” he said. “We NATHAN LYON just like the England camp I as- “Nathan Lyon – he’s come out series that saw the Aussies take should be roaring the boys on.”

ASHES PREVIEW COMMENT I am comfortable batting at any Captains continue position: Saha IANS enough light to continue the Nagpur game, Saha said: “The team morale was fantastic even though we couldn’t bat as per ndia wicketkeeper-bats- expectation in the fi rst in- war of words on the man Wriddhiman Saha nings. yesterday brushed aside “But we made a good come- talk of frequent changes in back in the second innings. Ihis batting position saying the Shikhar (Dhawan), Rahul and No.6 slot in the Indian batting Virat (Kohli) batted well and line-up is a fl exible one, de- when you get them seven down pending on the conditions. for less than 100, it automati- “It’s not that I always bat at cally boosts your morale. eve of series opener No.7 (or No.8) as I have bat- “May be with a bit more ted at No 6 also. We (along time at our disposal, we could Injuries cloud Australia’s preparations, Maxwell called in as cover for injury doubt Warner with Ravichandran Ashwin have won,” the 33-year-old and Ravindra Jadeja) are be- Bengal stumper refl ected. Reuters ing rotated as batting position “We tried hard but ini- Brisbane depends on the strength of the tially if we could have got the opposition bowlers,” Saha told fi rst few decisions quickly, it reporters ahead of India’s sec- could have been diff erent. But he war of words that has ond Test against Sri Lanka in time was also a constraint as added spice to the lead- Nagpur starting tomorrow. we fi rst wanted to be safe and up to cricket’s oldest In the fi rst rubber against the set a score that was unattain- enduring Test series will tourists, Saha came in at No.7 able and then attack. That was Tgive way to genuine hostilities and 8 in both innings. Saha has our gameplan so that bowlers today when bitter Ashes rivals played at No.6 but in the Indian would go all out,” he added. Australia and England march out second innings at Kolkata, he Saha was once again quizzed in front of a packed crowd at the came as low as No. 8, not ex- about the South Africa tour in Gabba. actly common among wicket- January next year. A temporary ceasefi re was keeper-batsmen these days. “I have always believed in called yesterday as Australia “Favourable conditions de- match by match preparation. captain Steve Smith and his termine the slots whether it Yes, South Africa series is England counterpart Joe Root is Nos 6, 7 or 8. It can be any at the back of our minds but paused for photos under a blind- position as per the team man- when you win a Test match, ing blue sky at the Brisbane sta- agement’s call,” Saha said, you take that confi dence into dium, but both captains have making it clear that he is not the next game and that’s what been looking to land a psycho- rigid about any slot. we are trying to do,” he con- logical blow on the eve of the Like Lokesh Rahul had said cluded. fi rst test. after the conclusion of the The customary photo op- Test, Saha also felt that a few portunity may have been the overs more could have ensured only chance to get a clear image an Indian win. from the entire day, with smoke Talking about the last Test and mirrors employed liberally where replying to India’s sec- by the captains during the pre- ond innings score of 352/8 de- match media conferences. clared, the visitors were reel- Root steadfastly declined to ing at 75/7 chasing 231, when name his side but the element umpires Nigel Llong and Joel of surprise was lost some four Wilson decided there was not hours later when the England and Wales Cricket Board re- leased the team on its website, FOCUS with Nottingham bowler Jake Ball beating out Craig Overton as the fourth seamer. Smith had earlier thrown Sri Lanka seeks a curve-ball by saying David Australia’s skipper Steve Smith (left) and England captain Joe Root smile as they pose with the trophy in Brisbane yesterday. (AFP) Warner, his vice-captain, opener and best batsman, remained in side’s spinner Nathan Lyon for Five biggest Ashes fl ashpoints Bangladesh coach doubt for the test as he battles to an attack on the team. recover from a neck strain. Taking no prisoners, Lyon 1932-1933: Bodyline Sydney saw England fast bowler Rodney Marsh via the driver AFP ladesh team after a disastrous Compounding the drama, said on Tuesday that England’s England captain Douglas Jardine’s John Snow hit Australia tailend- of the Australia team’s coach, Colombo tour of South Africa. Cricket Australia later revealed former wicketkeeper Matt Prior tactics of instructing his fast er Terry Jenner on the head recalled years later. But a stun- However, there was no word batsman Shaun Marsh had suf- had wanted to fl y home early bowlers, led by Harold Larwood, with a rising delivery, prompt- ning second-innings hundred by from the Bangladesh board fered a back strain at training during the 2013/14 series, which to aim at batsmen’s bodies - in a ing a warning from umpire Lou Ian Botham, and eight wickets ri Lanka’s cricket board if they had agreed for him to yesterday and was also uncertain the tourists lost 5-0. bid to curb run-machine Donald Rowan. When Snow returned from fast bowler Bob Willis saw yesterday announced prematurely end his contract for the match. He also joked that he wanted Bradman - provoked fury in Aus- to his fielding position at fine England complete a remarkable it was in talks to hire and join the team of his native As to how Australia would deal to see Root, who was omitted for tralia as the tourists regained the leg, a drunk spectator reached win. It was the first of several Bangladesh head coach Sri Lanka. with Warner’s absence, Smith the Sydney test during that se- ChandikaS Hathurusingha Sri Lanka’s head coach post Ashes. The controversy reached over to grab him and beer cans superb individual displays from gave no answer. ries, “dropped again”. a peak during the third Test at and bottles then rained down Botham that inspired England to subject to him securing a full has been vacant since South The board later said all- “That’s not how I’d want my the Adelaide Oval when Australia on the England spearhead. a series victory. release from his current con- African Graham Ford quit in rounder Glenn Maxwell had players to go about things but captain Bill Woodfull was struck England captain Ray Illingworth, tractual obligations. June. been rushed to Brisbane in read- that’s up to him to come out and a blow on the heart while batting. concerned for the safety of his 2013: Broad refuses to walk Sri Lanka Cricket said its Under Hathurusingha, per- iness to slot in if Warner failed to say that,” Root said in response, After he was out, England team players, led his team off the Stuart Broad was on 37 not out chief Thilanga Sumathipala ennial minnows Bangladesh prove his fi tness. a hint of a frown crossing the manager Pelham Warner passed field. As the debris was being in England’s second innings dur- wrote to his Bangladesh coun- made rapid strides in world Quite how Marsh’s potential 26-year-old’s face. on his sympathy only for Wood- cleared, Rowan warned England ing the first Test at Trent Bridge terpart Nazmul Hassan ex- cricket, reaching the semi-fi - absence would be covered re- “I think it’s slightly out of full to cut him short by saying: they risked forfeiting the match when he edged left-arm spinner pressing a desire to hire Sri nals of the Champions Trophy mains up in the air. character. I know Nathan from “There are two teams out there. if they did not return. They did Ashton Agar via wicket-keeper Lanka-born Hathurusingha. tournament in England this Before the Marsh news broke, playing club cricket but it One is playing cricket and the head back, with England going Brad Haddin’s glove to Michael The board said it would off er year. Root had said Warner’s injury doesn’t seen very real.” other is not.” on to complete a 62-run victory Clarke at slip. However, he was the 49-year-old the position But he came in for criticism would do nothing to change his The threat from Australia’s to win the Ashes 2-0. given not out by umpire Aleem of head coach “subject to the during Bangladesh’s recent team’s preparations. pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat 1958-1959: Throwing row Dar and Broad brazenly refused full release of his contractual tour of South Africa, where the Cummins and Josh Hazlewood England suff ered a 4-1 defeat in 1981: Lillee, Marsh bet on to ‘walk’, or give himself out. The obligations” with the Bangla- team failed to register a single STRAIGHT BAT on a juicy Gabba deck is very a five-match series in Australia England tourists were incensed. Broad desh Cricket Board (BCB). win. Root has seemed impervious real, however. dogged by controversy over the England were on the brink of go- went on to make 65, and they “There is no doubt that His contract with the Bang- to the pressure of leading a team Paceman Mitchell Johnson legitimacy of home paceman Ian ing 2-0 down after being made turned out to be valuable extra Hathuru (Hathurusingha) ladesh Cricket Board was sup- regarded sceptically by cricket destroyed England with nine Meckiff ’s action. Many within the to follow-on in the third Test at runs as England won by just 14. would be a great fi t for us with posed to run until World Cup media in both countries, and he wickets at the Gabba four years England camp, and some former Headingley with former England the direction of both our short 2019 and made him one of the has played a straight bat to the ago, setting the tone for a miser- Australia cricketers, were con- wicket-keeper Godfrey Evans, and long term goals,” Sumath- highest-paid cricket coaches usual provocations from Aus- able series for the tourists. An- vinced that Meckiff , who took setting the odds for bookmakers ipala said in a statement. in the world on $40,000 a tralia’s pundits and players. other left-armer in Starc looms 17 wickets at just over 17 apiece, Ladbrokes, making them 500/1 “I have written personally to month. Having taken one on the chin as England’s possible bogeyman ‘threw’ rather than bowled the rank outsiders at that stage. the BCB informing him of our Hathurusingha played 26 for England after a clash with this time round. ball with a straight arm. Doubts With concerns over match-fixing intention (to hire Hathurus- Tests and 35 ODIs for Sri Lanka Warner at a Birmingham bar in “It has been exciting watching about his action eventually not as prevalent then as now, ingha).” before becoming the assistant 2013, Root has gladly stuck it out them in the nets,” Smith said of ended his career, after he was the odds were too tempting for Sri Lanka wants him to coach under Trevor Bayliss, a again on the tour Down Under. Starc, Cummins and Hazlewood. no-balled for throwing in a Test Australia fast bowler Dennis groom the national team for job he lost in 2010. Yet as calmly as he praised “(Compared) to 2013-14 when against South Africa in 1963. Lillee. “I had never seen such the 2019 cricket World Cup, He went on to be appoint- his players for refusing to rise to Mitchell was bowling in the nets, ludicrous odds off ered for a according to offi cial sources. ed coach for Australia’s New Australia’s bait, his voice strayed these guys are just as nasty, if 1970-1971: England walk-off two-horse race,” Lillee, who laid Hathurusingha had said South Wales side, landing the briefl y from its dependable not more nasty to be perfectly The final Test of the series in a bet along with team-mate earlier this month that he was more lucrative Bangladesh job monotone as he chided the home honest.” stepping down from the Bang- in May 2014. Gulf Times Thursday, November 23, 2017 5 SPORT

BADMINTON NHL Sindhu, Saina, Prannoy advance in Hong Kong IANS Kazumasa Sakai. Tarasenko Hong Kong Kashyap lost 21-15, 9-21, 20-22 to South Korean Lee Dong Keun in an hour and nine minutes. ndian shuttlers P V Sindhu, Saina Sourabh Verma and B Sai Praneeth Nehwal and H S Prannoy ad- too exited the competition, losing to leads Blues to vanced to the second round while their respective opponents. Parupalli Kashyap and the wom- Verma lost to Indonesian Tommy Ien’s doubles pair of Ashwini Pon- Sugiarto 15-21, 8-21 in 30 minutes nappa and N Sikki Reddy fell in the while Praneeth lost to second seed Son rout over Oilers opening round of the Hong Kong Open Wan Ho of Japan 8-21, 16-21. Superseries yesterday. The women’s doubles pair of Ash- Reuters lead Vancouver over Philadelphia. While second seed Sindhu eased wini and Sikki fought hard but couldn’t New York The Canucks’ Daniel Sedin added a past Hong Kong’s qualifi er Leung prevent China’s Huang Dongping and goal and an assist to move within four Yuet Yee 21-18, 21-10, Saina registered Li Wenmei from advancing to the next points of the 1,000-point mark. Van- a hard-fought 21-19, 23-21 win over Malaysia’s Lee Chong Wei watches his shot against China’s Tian Houwei after he round. The Chinese won 21-11, 19-21, ladimir Tarasenko completed couver’s Sven Baertschi picked up his Denmark’s Mette Poulsen. slipped during their first round match at the Hong Kong Open yesterday. The 21-19 in 55 minutes. a Gordie Howe hat-trick — eighth goal of the season, and Loui In the next round, Nehwal will face Malaysian won 21-9, 21-7. (AFP) Later in the day, Manu Attri and B scoring two goals, assisting Eriksson added an empty-net goal and Chen Yufei of China while Sindhu will Sumeeth Reddy will face Malaysia- on two more and getting into an assist. face Aya Ohori of Japan. moved into the second round after a one minute over Hong Kong’s Hu Yun. Korea duo of Khim Wah Lim Yoo Yeon Va fi ght — to lead the St Louis Blues to an Defenseman Ivan Provorov and right In the men’s singles, Prannoy 19-21, 21-17, 21-15 win in an hour and He will now take on Japanese shuttler Seong in men’s doubles category. 8-3 rout over the Edmonton Oilers on winger Jakub Voracek netted goals for Tuesday. the Flyers, who lost for the fi fth straight Brayden Schenn also scored twice time. NBA and assisted on two more goals, ex- tending his career-high point streak STARS 3, CANADIENS 1 to eight games, as the Blues won their Devin Shore and Tyler Seguin each had third in a row and improved their West- a goal and an assist, and Ben Bishop ern Conference-leading record to 16- stopped 29-of-30 shots for Dallas in a 5-1. victory against Montreal. Milan Lucic, Leon Draisaitl and Dar- Jason Spezza also scored for the nell Nurse scored for the Oilers. Stars, who improved to 8-2-0 at home. Late charge pushes Brendan Gallagher had the lone goal CANUCKS 5, FLYERS 2 for the Canadiens, who lost their fourth Lakers past Bulls Brock Boeser scored a pair of goals to straight. ‘It’s a challenge because you’ve got to be extremely patient yet positive’

Reuters New York

entavious Caldwell-Pope scored 11 of his 21 points in the closing minutes as the Los Angeles Lakers rallied Kfrom a 19-point, second-half defi cit to defeat the Chicago Bulls 103-94 on Tuesday at Staples Center. Kyle Kuzma scored a game-high 22 points, Brandon Ingram added 17 points, Jordan Clarkson scored 12 off the bench and Julius Randle contrib- uted 10 in a reserve role for Los Ange- les (8-10). Denzel Valentine shot 5 of 7 from 3-point range and scored 17 points to lead fi ve starters in double fi gures for the Bulls (3-12). Antonio Blakeney, on a two-way contract that allows him to split time between the Bulls and their G-League affi liate, the Windy City Bulls, scored 15 off the bench for Chicago. The Lakers rallied to tie the score at 80 on a layup by Josh Hart with 9:32 left. St. Louis Blues right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (second from right) is congratulated Los Angeles fi nally went ahead 89-87 by teammates after scoring against the Edmonton Oilers during the NHL game at when Caldwell-Pope put back a missed Scottrade Center in St. Louis, Missouri, on Tuesday. (USA TODAY Sports) 3-pointer with 3:06 remaining. Chicago Bulls’ Denzel Valentine (right) controls the ball against Los Angeles Lakers’ Kentavious Caldwell-Pope during the Caldwell-Pope followed with two second half of their NBA game at Staples Center in Los Angeles on Tuesday. (USA TODAY Sports) 3-pointers that stretched the lead to SPOTLIGHT fi ve each time, and the Lakers kept within 13, but the Lakers didn’t begin onds left in the third quarter and then 56-42 lead into the break. Chicago from getting back within one to make a charge until Clarkson re- trailed 75-72 entering the fourth. Blakeney entered with 4:58 left in the possession. placed Lonzo Ball and joined Kuzma, Behind double-digit fi rst-half scor- fi rst quarter and scored 15 points in his The Bulls took their biggest lead Randle, Caldwell-Pope and Hart. ing eff orts from Blakeney (15), Robin fi rst eight minutes, including 11 straight Braves busted by MLB at 61-42 with 10:29 left in the third The Lakers cut the defi cit to one on Lopez (12) and Valentine (11), the Bulls for the Bulls during one stretch, helping quarter. An 8-2 run pulled Los Angeles a 3-pointer by Clarkson with 35 sec- led by as many as 18 before taking a Chicago to a 41-26 lead. over international signings

AFP The Braves said in a statement the RUGBY Los Angeles team accepted the punishments. “Today, Major League Baseball in- formed the Atlanta Braves organization ajor League Baseball threw of sanctions being levied as a result of Cheika still sweating on swearing probe the book at the Atlanta their investigation,” the team said. Braves on Tuesday for vio- “We understand and accept the de- Agencies the touchline to remonstrate with of- WILSON RETURNS FOR lating signing rules regard- cision regarding the penalties that have fi cials. He also received abuse from AGAINST AUSTRALIA Ming international amateur players, de- been handed down. London supporters that he described as a Ryan Wilson returned from injury to claring 13 prospects who had signed for “As we expressed last week, our “gobful” that was “not pleasant” and strengthen the Scotland team as coach the club free agents. organization has not lived up to the ustralia coach Michael at one point had a verbal exchange Gregor Townsend yesterday made four In an unprecedented punishment, standard our fans expect from us and Cheika was left waiting with a fan. changes to his side for the clash with the MLB also said it will dock the Braves that we expect from ourselves. For that, Tuesday to fi nd out if he will Autumn international disciplinary Australia at Murrayfi eld on Saturday. a third-round pick in the 2018 ama- we apologize. We are instituting the be punished for his conduct offi cials launched an investigation The loose forward missed last week- teur draft, while barring the team from changes necessary to prevent this from duringA the Wallabies’ 30-6 defeat by on Monday and on Tuesday they said end’s narrow loss to world champions signing any international player for ever happening again and remain excit- England last week, as offi cials con- their inquiries had yet to be completed. New Zealand because of a shoulder in- more than $10,000 in the 2019/2020 ed about the future of Braves baseball. fi rmed a disciplinary probe was still “The investigation is continuing jury but is fi t to play in the last of three window. We do not plan to comment further on ongoing. and a further update will be issued in November internationals. The sanctions come after an investiga- this matter.” Cheika was infuriated by several due course,” they said in a statement. New Zealand-born prop Simon tion by MLB which found that the Braves The 13 players who are now free decisions that went against Aus- Cheika called into question rugby Berghan, making his fi rst start for had “circumvented international signing to leave the team include talented tralia at Twickenham on Saturday union’s replay procedure after sev- Scotland, was preferred to Zander rules from 2015 through 2017”. 17-year-old Venezuelan prospect Kevin and when a Michael Hooper try was terview if he had actually mouthed an eral decisions went against his side Fargerson in the front row, while Aus- The scandal has already cost former Maitan. disallowed in the fi rst half, he ap- expletive and called New Zealand’s during a match where the scale of tralian-born was dropped to Braves general manager John Cop- Maitan and the other 12 players are peared to mouth an expletive in ref- O’Keeff e a “cheat”, Cheika ended the Australia’s defeat was compounded the bench in favour of Gary Gilchrist. polella and team scout Gordon Blakeley now allowed to sign with any of the re- erence to the ruling made by referee interview. by England running in three late tries is back on the wing after their jobs. maining 29 MLB teams. Ben O’Keeff e. Earlier, Cheika twice walked down through Jonathan Joseph, Jonny May belatedly joining the squad this week Coppolella has been permanently Atlanta fi nished third in the National When asked during a broadcast in- the steps from the coaches’ box to and Danny Care. on his return from injury. banned from working in the league, League East this season with a 72-90 MLB said. record.

BASKETBALL Trump: Father of UCLA player in shoplift ing case is ‘ungrateful fool’

Reuters three stores during a team trip to Chi- tweeted, referring to the American ing during the national anthem at New York na earlier this month. boxing promoter. games. The Washington Post reported “...LaVar, you could have spent the Ball has declined to thank the presi- on Tuesday that league owners are next 5 to 10 years during Thanksgiv- dent and downplayed his role in help- considering reverting to an earlier S President Donald Trump ing with your son in China, but no NBA ing to get his son home from China. practice of keeping players off the fi eld yesterday reignited a feud contract to support you. But remember The three players have apologised and during the national anthem. with the father of one of the LaVar, shoplifting is NOT a little thing. thanked Trump for helping secure their “The NFL is now thinking about a three UCLA basketball play- It’s a really big deal, especially in China. release by raising the issue with Chinese new idea — keeping teams in the Lock- Uers who were detained in China on Ungrateful fool!,” Trump tweeted. President Xi Jinping during a visit to the er Room during the National Anthem suspicion of shoplifting, calling him In another tweet, Trump took sole country earlier this month. All three next season. That’s almost as bad as an “ungrateful fool” in a series of ear- credit for getting LiAngelo Ball out of a players have been suspended indefi - kneeling!” Trump said in a third early- ly-morning tweets. long-term prison sentence — and not nitely from the UCLA basketball team. morning tweet. “When will the highly LaVar Ball, the father of LiAngelo the White House, the State Department On Sunday, Trump tweeted that he paid Commissioner fi nally get tough Ball, has played down Trump’s in- or LaVar Ball’s associates in China. “should have left them in jail!” and smart? This issue is killing your volvement in the three athletes’ re- “IT WAS ME. Too bad! LaVar is just The Republican president also league!...” lease from Chinese detention after a poor man’s version of Don King, but weighed in on another pet peeve: Na- A NFL representative had no imme- they admitted to stealing items from without the hair. Just think..,” Trump tional Football League players kneel- diate comment. LaVar Ball has played down Trump’s involvement in the three athletes’ release. (AFP) Gulf Times 6 Thursday, November 23, 2017 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Day urges Tiger to go easy AFP “From what I see on Instagram to practise as much injury free as then that’s diffi cult’. Sydney and what he’s been telling me, he possible.” “I totally understand where says he’s ready and I’m hoping he’s coming from, because that he is, because from what I ‘Best he’s felt in years’ sometimes I wake up in the ason Day assured Tiger hear, he’s hitting it very long. Woods has not played com- morning and it takes me 10 min- Woods yesterday that “And if he’s hitting it long and petitively since February, when utes to get out of bed, and for he’s under “no pressure” straight, then that’s going to be he withdrew from the Dubai him to be in pain for three years ahead of his long-awaited tough for us because it is Tiger Desert Classic. He underwent is very frustrating.” comebackJ at an exclusive invita- Woods. surgery in April, his fourth op- Woods, who last won a ma- tional tournament next week. “He’s always been a clutch eration on his troublesome back, jor in 2008, has also battled Day, a former world number putter and in amongst the best and has been posting videos of personal demons. In May, he one, said Woods had told him and it will be interesting to see.” himself in practice. was arrested for driving under he feels ready for his return at Woods is included in an 18- He announced he would be the infl uence after being found the Hero World Challenge in the man fi eld which features many making his comeback at the Hero asleep in his Mercedes-Benz by Bahamas. The 14-time major of world golf’s elite, including World Challenge, an invitational a roadside. champion has not played since world number one Dustin John- event to benefi t his charity foun- Woods, who was found to have February after undergoing sur- son and world number two Jor- dation. “I did talk to him and he fi ve drugs including the powerful gery following a recurrence of dan Spieth. did say it’s the best he’s ever felt opioid hydrocodone in his sys- back problems which forced him “I have no idea where his in three years,” said Day, a friend tem, later revealed he underwent to miss the 2015-2016 season. game’s at because the last time and confi dant of Woods. professional treatment to help “There’s no pressure. I think I spent time with him he wasn’t “He doesn’t wake up with him manage his medications. it’s a 17- or 18-man fi eld, there’s even hitting full swings yet,” pain anymore, which is great. I Under a plea agreement no cut, he’s playing at a tourna- Spieth said in Sydney. said to him, ‘Look, it’s great to reached in Palm Beach County, ment where last year I think he “But he was confi dent com- be one of the best players ever to north of Miami, Woods will had the most birdies at,” Day ing off of this last surgery to get live, but health is one thing that avoid jail time unless he com- said at the Australian Open in back into it and to be able to have we all take for granted and if you mits major violations of his Australian golfer Jason Day speaks during a press conference ahead of the Australian Open golf tournament Sydney. the time necessary and strength can’t live a happy, healthy life, probation. in Sydney. (AFP)

GOLF PREVIEW Bragging rights and money at stake in Spieth’s problem Formula 1 fi nale

Reuters fi rst non-Mercedes driver of London the V6 turbo hybrid era that started in 2014 to fi nish in the top two of the championship. he Formula One sea- The German is 22 points at Thanksgiving: son winds up in Abu clear of Mercedes’ Valtteri Dhabi on Sunday with Bottas, who can only fi nish both titles won, Lewis runner-up if he wins and Vet- HamiltonT aiming to close the tel scores no more than two year on a winning note and big points. money still at stake for those FELIPE’S FAREWELL further down the paddock Ferrari have yet to win in pecking order. Abu Dhabi but Vettel and keeping weight on While four times world Hamilton, who was given a champion Hamilton’s Mer- hero’s welcome when he re- ‘Each year I lose 10 to 15 pounds. I’m trying to figure out a way to sustain weight’ cedes team mates can again turned to the Mercedes fac- look forward to healthy year- tory this week, have both AFP end bonuses, others are scrap- triumphed three times at Yas Sydney ping for crucial points that Marina’s fl oodlit circuit. could swell their 2018 budgets. For Brazilian Felipe Massa, Toro Rosso, Renault and with Williams, Abu Dhabi will merica’s Jordan Spi- Haas are just six points apart, be a fi nal farewell to the sport. eth returns to action with the diff erence between “I am looking forward to it at the Australian Open sixth place and eighth in the and plan to enjoy every mo- this week pondering an constructors’ championship ment, to fi nish my Formula unusualA problem: how to keep equivalent to about $12 million One career on a high note,” said weight on at Thanksgiving. when it comes to revenue dis- the 36-year-old, who won 11 Unlike many elite golfers who tribution. times for Ferrari in a career that spend hours sweating in the gym “This race is almost a cham- will end after some 270 races. trying to slim down, Spieth has pionship in itself,” says Renault It could also be goodbye for always battled not to lose weight, Sport F1 head Cyril Abiteboul, Sauber’s Pascal Wehrlein and a condition which forces him to whose team are four points be- Marcus Ericsson, the German constantly tinker with his swing hind Toro Rosso and two clear and Swede uncertain to be re- as his body shape fl uctuates. of Ferrari-powered Haas. tained by a team whose engine As he prepares to defend the There is extra needle in the partners Ferrari are keen to Australian Open title for a sec- showdown with Red Bull- place their own young talent. ond time, Spieth said he has em- owned Toro Rosso using the McLaren will also be saying barked on a new diet and training French manufacturer’s en- ‘sayonara’ to Honda after an regime to help him bulk up for gines for one last time before ill-fated three year partner- the upcoming golf season. switching to Honda. ship that promised much but “Each year I lose 10 to 15 pounds At the top, Hamilton will be delivered only failure. throughout the year. I’m trying to determined to grab a 10th win The former champions will fi gure out a way to sustain weight,” of the season – making it the be using Renault power next the world number two told a news fourth year in a row that his season. conference yesterday. tally has entered double fi g- The days of entirely open “I’ve done an average job of ures and giving him a warm cockpits are also numbered, it but I’m trying. It’s hard to eat glow through the winter. with 2018 set to usher in a new as much as I need to eat, which I “I’m going to give it eve- ‘halo’ era and the introduction don’t get any remorse from peo- rything in Abu Dhabi,” said of a head protection device ple I talk to about it. the Briton, who won his title whose looks will change the “If you’re competing a lot, it’s in Mexico last month but has cars’ aesthetics. mentally draining, which then failed to make the podium in This week will also see For- makes physically draining as his last two races. mula One’s fi rst virtual world well. So, I’m just trying to work Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel champion crowned with the a little bit on it. will also be looking for brag- fi nals of the inaugural eSports “I’m not really too crazy about ging rights by becoming the series on Friday and Saturday. it. I’m not turning off burgers and beer, but I’m just trying to get enough of the right stuff .” MOTORSPORT While most US professional golfers remain at home for the US golfer Jordan Spieth speaks during a press conference ahead of the Australian Open in Sydney yesterday. (AFP) Thanksgiving holiday, Spieth has spent the past three years with Australia’s Jason Day loom- Rose prepares for battle as European Tour tees off in Hong Kong Todt unopposed in Australia in the belief that ing as his biggest threat. the Australian Open, one of the Day beat Spieth in a fi nal- Golf’s world number six Justin It is a punishing schedule for taken a marginally more restful world’s oldest tournaments dat- round duel to win the 2015 PGA Rose said ice baths and a team today’s golfers, who jet back approach. Both Rory McIlroy for third term as ing back to 1904, is both a per- Championship and said he was of fitness experts helped him and forth across time zones and Henrik Stenson, previous fect launch pad for the new sea- relishing the prospect of going keep up his energy last season, for tournaments while keeping Tour winners, sat out the Dubai son and also a lucky omen. head-to-head with the Texan. as he eyes a fast start to the new their bodies in a peak athletic finale last weekend after opting FIA president He won the Masters and the “I would love to play with Spi- European Tour in Hong Kong. condition that has become es- not to rush back from injuries in US Open in 2015 after winning eth on Sunday, last group, that Rose takes his place among sential in the modern game. favour of a brief winter break. Reuters over the commercial rights his fi rst Australian Open at the would be the greatest thing,” Day Europe’s top golfers at the Hong And as events such as the Asian Sergio Garcia, who has also London last January, is entering a po- end of 2014, shooting a fi nal said. Kong Open today just days after Tour’s historic Hong Kong Open travelled from Dubai to Hong tentially turbulent period with round course-record 63 which “This course does suit up well the 2017 circuit finished. are added to the European Kong this week, admitted he team contracts expiring in he credits for giving him the self- for him and I think it does for me His unflagging energy saw him Tour’s winter schedule as jointly was reluctant to see the 2017 ean Todt is sure to be re- 2020 and a new engine format belief to succeed at the majors. as well, as long as I’m driving it win tournaments in China and sanctioned competitions, the season end. elected for a third term to be agreed. straight, then I’ve got the same Turkey in the space of a month season’s start has shifted earlier The year has seen him bag his as president of Formula Meanwhile Robert Kubica Day U-turn on Olympics opportunity as he does.” before narrowly missing out and earlier. first Major victory – in a record One’s governing body will test for Williams in Abu This year, Spieth followed up Like Spieth, Day is hoping the afterJ the International Auto- Dhabi following Sunday’s sea- at the seasonal finale in Dubai The Englishman’s next stop is 74th attempt – at the Masters, his second Australian Open vic- Australian Open, starting on last weekend. “Today is my the Hero World Challenge in the while also finding time to get mobile Federation (FIA) said son-ending grand prix as he tory in late 2016 by winning the Thursday at the Australian Golf off -season!” joked a bleary-eyed Bahamas next Thursday, a tour- married to golf reporter Angela yesterday that no other candi- bids to return to Formula One British Open for the fi rst time. Club in suburban Sydney, will be Justin Rose on Tuesday, hours nament run by the Tiger Woods Akins, with a child on the way. dates were standing. seven years after partially sev- “I saw what it did after 2014, a springboard to bigger things in after flying in from the Middle Foundation which is expected But the Spaniard is also looking The 71-year-old Frenchman ering his right arm in a crash. to be able to travel across the the new year. Day slipped to 12th East. I take the day off today to see the hotly-anticipated resolutely forward. took over from Max Mosley in The Polish driver, 32, will globe and see that your game in the world rankings after los- and then we get going again return of its namesake golfing “You start a new year and you 2009 and won a second four- take part in a two-day tyre travels and then to get to kind of ing his 51-week reign as world tomorrow. I’ll definitely do [ice superstar. “The sooner you can kind of reset,” explained Garcia. year term in 2013. test along with Russian Sergey a world-class fi eld at this point number one in February to Dus- baths], a lot of contrast - hot- win in a tour season the better,” “You want to make sure you The FIA said on its website Sirotkin as the British-based in the year,” the 24-year-old said. tin Johnston. cold stuff . I’ll do that pre-round, Rose told AFP. keep moving forward and keep (www.fi a.com) that the former team determine their line- “It’s a great time of the year to While Day has won 10 times post-round sometimes. “I track “The way I look at it, it counts putting yourself in position to Ferrari team boss was the only up for 2018. Canadian Lance gear things back up in a fantas- on the PGA Tour, the 30-year- my heart rate variability every for the 2018 season but also win more tournaments and more candidate whose electoral list Stroll is already confi rmed for tic event that I’ve had success at old Australian has never won day to get a bit of a snapshot of calendar-year wise it aff ords Majors, and probably make more had been received by the offi - next season but Felipe Massa’s and seen it propel into the next his national championship and how my body is coping with time you the opportunity to go into babies and all those things!” cial deadline. The vote will be retirement leaves a vacancy. season.” his only professional win in his changes, and jet lag. If I need to Christmas and the New Year And there is another reason for held at the Annual General As- Daniil Kvyat, Pascal Wehr- Spieth is the clear favourite to homeland was at the 2013 World focus on recovery I will. If I need with some momentum.” Garcia to approach the new tour sembly on December 8 in Paris. lein, Britain’s Paul di Resta and again get his name engraved on Cup of golf when he teamed up to focus on fitness I will.” Other European stars have season with particular zeal. Formula One, with U.S.- Sirotkin are potential candi- the Stonehaven Cup this week, with Adam Scott. based Liberty Media taking dates but Kubica leads the way. Gulf Times Thursday, November 23, 2017 7 SPORT

MOTORSPORT FOOTBALL Catsburg pledges to University League semis at help Bjork’s WTCC Education City title bid in Qatar this weekend ‘It’s all about assisting Thed and together claim the manufacturers’ title’

icky Catsburg will switch his focus to helping Polestar Cyan Racing teammate Thed Bjork’s FIA World Tour- Ning Car Championship bid after his own hopes of title glory faded during a tough Macau return for the Dutch- man. Catsburg had been expected to head the factory Volvo squad’s charge in Macau as the only member of the three-car team with previous experi- ence of the demanding street track. But a crash early in Qualifying Q1 wrecked his chances and eff ectively left him 44 points behind his champi- Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMU-Q) topped Group A with 10 points. onship-leading team-mate Björk with only 60 points up for grabs from the By Sports Reporter that demonstrates QFA’s social respon- Qatar double-header next weekend. Doha sibility strategy in providing a platform WTCC Race of Qatar will celebrate for students at college and university its third anniversary when it takes level to play organised football.” place from 30 November-1 December. our teams are set to compete Mohammed al-Saoud, head of Rec- The two fl oodlight races take place on in the semi-fi nals of the fi fth reation Services, QF, added: “The Uni- Friday 1 December 21h20 and 22h35 University League today, start- versity League is a wonderful initiative and mark the fi nal rounds of the 2017 ing 7pm at Qatar Foundation’s as it aims to encourage young adults WTCC season. (QF’s)F Recreation Center, pitch 1. to lead active, healthier lifestyles. It’s “I am not happy with the result for me Group A winner, Texas A&M Universi- been great to see so many diff erent personally, but I am happy to see Thed ty at Qatar (TAMU-Q), will face Group B teams from across Qatar come together keeping the championship lead,” said runners-up, Qatar Aeronautical College in Education City’s Recreation Center Catsburg. “I had too many issues this (QAC). TAMU-Q had amassed 10 points to compete. We are a week away from weekend and I am more or less out of to top their group, while QAC had four the fi nals, and we are all looking for- the title fi ght, so it is all about assisting Polestar Cyan Racing’s Nicky Catsburg in action during the 2017 FIA WTCC World Touring Car Championship race at Guia points, fi nishing behind Qatar University ward to seeing who takes home the Thed in the season fi nale and together International Circuit in Macau earlier this month. (QU) at six points. highly-coveted title this year.” claim the manufacturers’ title.” The second semi-fi nal of the night Organised by QFA and QF, the Uni- Björk tops the WTCC standings by 6.5 Race at WTCC Race of Macau by tar as the Swedish outfi t bids to land SCHEDULE will see QU play Group A’s second place versity League started in 2013 and en- points after 18 rounds and will be boost- holding up the pursuing Tom Chilton both the drivers’ and manufacturers’ THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER team, Carnegie Mellon University in courages participation from all colleges ed by his performance on his debut at in order to protect his colleague. The titles for the fi rst time. “My ambition 18h30-19h15: Free Practice 1 Qatar (CMU-Q), who had eight points and universities across Qatar. the Losail International Circuit last sea- Argentine was shown the black and is to be back in strong form for Qatar 21h15-22h00: Free Practice 2 from the group stages. The University League this year is son when he placed sixth and second in white warning fl ag for his defensive to fi ght for a double world title for the Hilal al-Mohannadi, chairman of the sponsored by the Supreme Commit- the two night races at the track. driving style but he ultimately suc- team,” he said. FRIDAY 1 DECEMBER Sub-Leagues Committee, Qatar Foot- tee for Delivery & Legacy as the offi cial While barging Michelisz off the ceeded in ensuring Chilton remained Björk’s team boss, Alexander 14h30-14h50: Qualifying Q1 ball Association (QFA), said: “We are strategic partner, Ooredoo as the offi - track in Qatar won’t be an option for behind Michelisz. Murdzvski Schedvin, added: “We are 14h55-15h05: Qualifying Q2 very happy with the level of competi- cial telecommunication partner, Qatar Catsburg and nor would it be a tactic As well as Catsburg, Björk will also heading to the last race of the year in 15h10 (pit lane opens): Qualifying Q3 tiveness witnessed between the stu- National Bank as the exclusive fi nancial he would even contemplate, Esteban be able to count on Argentine driver the lead of both championships to a 15h40-16h00: Manufacturers Against dents this year, and wish the four teams partner, Nike as the offi cial supplier, Guerrieri played a key role in helping Néstor Girolami, who completes the circuit where we had a strong result the Clock (WTCC MAC3) the best of luck in reaching the fi nals. and Al Kass Sports Channels as the of- to safeguard his Honda team-mate Polestar Cyan Racing line-up and has last year. Our goal is of course to se- 21h20-21h45: Opening Race (10 laps) The University League is an initiative fi cial broadcaster. Michelisz’s second place in the Main vowed to play a supporting role in Qa- cure a double world title.” 22h35-23h05: Main Race (12 laps)

Blue Phoenix to battle Al Khor in round three of national XV’s rugby

Last year’s champions, Blue Phoenix, will go head- to-head against Al Khor in Round Three of the Qatar Rugby Federation’s (QRF’s) newly-reformat- ted domestic XV’s competition, the National Club Rugby Championship, today. The game will kick off at 7pm at Doha Rugby Foot- ball Centre today. To enter the grounds, visitors are required to pay a fee of QR50. Currently, Doha Maroon – Doha RFC’s men’s first team – and the Qatar Camels top the scoreboard. The two teams will face each other for the first time this season on Friday, December 8, battling it out on the pitch to see who will move into top spot. The QRF’s National Club Rugby Championship is set to Qatar Aeronautical College finished second in Group B, behind Qatar University, to conclude in February 2018. face Texas A&M in the first semi-final.

BOTTOMLINE Al Ahli victorious in Asian Club handball Qatar’s Al Ahli recorded a 39-30 victory over Uzbekistan’s Racor in the pres- tigious AHF Asian Men’s Club Handball Championship 2017 held in Hydera- bad, India, on Tuesday. In another match, Qatar’s Duhail were held to a draw QFA celebrates World Diabetes Day by Al Sharjah of United Arab Emirates. The event is a qualifying tournament for the IHF Super Globe 2018. Group A includes Duhail (Qatar), Al Sharjah By Sports Reporter Activities included a football skill (UAE), Oil club (Iran), Muscat (Oman), while group B includes Al Ahli (Qatar), Doha zone where participants tested their Service (India), Racor ( Uzbekistan), Najma (Bahrain), Police (Iraq). It’s the first goal shooting and football skills. time India hosting the Asian championship. Qatar’s Al Sadd hold the record of Commenting on the occasion, Kha- winning the Asian title five times in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2005. he Qatar Football Association lid al-Kuwari, Director of Marketing (QFA) took part in an aware- and Communications at the QFA said, Historical win for Curling Team Qatar ness event organised by the “Our participation in the World Dia- Qatar Diabetes Association betes Day celebration highlights our T(QDA) at Qatar Foundation for Educa- ongoing co-operation with the Qatar tion, Science and Community Devel- Diabetes Association and highlights opment’s (QF) Oxygen Park last Friday QFA’s commitment to partner with to mark World Diabetes Day. local entities to organise initiatives as The event included an aware- such.” ness walkathon in addition to blood He added: “In line with our 2021 vi- sugar tests, nutrition counselling, sion, we have many community pro- and healthy lifestyle advice through grammes and activities which we will playing football and witnessed the be implementing in the coming period participation of thousands of Qatar’s in co-operation with our sponsors and residents. community organisations that aim to Football coaches and trainers from strengthen the role of the QFA in the QFA’s Football Development Depart- local community.” ment, including Mahmoud Shaker, Qatar Diabetes Association execu- Nasser Mkedish, Abdulrazak Obaid, tive director Dr Abdulla al-Hamaq said, Zinedine Azooza, Turky Yassine and “I am delighted to see QFA participate Ihab Al Qashat, educated the partici- with us supporting this noble cause in pants about the importance of lead- the World Diabetes Day. We are sharing ing a healthy lifestyle through playing the vision of creating a culture of well- football. ness among our society. I would like to A QFA dedicated tent was also setup express my gratitude to this valuable Qatari men’s curling team registered their first international win when they to help raise awareness about the ben- contribution and looking forward to beat Kazakhstan 8-5 in the round robin stage of World Curling Federation’s efi ts of an active lifestyle, a balanced work together next year too.” Pacific Asia Curling Championships 2017. The event, held in Erina, Australia, diet, and regular exercise. The QFA has participated in a saw Qatar participate at the continental level only for the second time. Na- Following the nutrition and exercise number of international days’ cel- beel Alyafei, Ahmad al-Fahad, Abdulrahman Alyafei and Salem Ali represent- counselling sessions, a large group of ebrations in the past years including ed Qatar. In the short history of Qatar Curling Federation, this is an important participants took part in QFA’s physi- International Cancer Day in aim to milestone. Qatar finished eighth in the event. “It was a great Championship. cal activities. A large area was divided strengthen its role in the local com- The win gives us a push to improve and play better at other competitions,” into diff erent sections in which the munity and educate Qatar’s commu- captain Alyafei said after the competition. The national curling team practise QFA coaches supervised the football- nities about the importance of adopt- QFA Football Development Department coaches at Qatar Diabetes Association’s at Villaggio on weekly basis. related activities off ered. ing a healthy lifestyle through football. World Diabetes Day Celebration.

Thursday, November 23, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING Mango Tango tops Qatar Cup; Avranche shines with hat-trick Jockey Gerald Avranche completed his hat-trick on the day when he rode Osama al-Dafea’s Shidad to victory

By Sports Reporter Doha

bdulatif Hussain al-Emadi-owned Mango Tango may have ended her last season with a disappointing fi n- ish in April, but she certainly opened theA new season with a thrilling win at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club here yesterday. On her fi rst dirt race in Qatar, the four-year- old fi lly, ridden by Eduardo Pedroza for trainer Ibrahim al-Malki, did well to stay ahead of in- form Zman Awal, who won the fi rst feature this season three weeks ago for trainer Hadi al-Ram- zani, on the home stretch, and eventually fi nish a length ahead of Alberto Sanna’s ride in the 1700m race. Champion trainer Jassim Ghazali was without a win on the day, with Regality fi n- ishing third under Pier Convertino. Jockey Gerald Avranche completed his hat- trick on the day when he rode Osama al-Dafea’s Shidad to victory in the Local Thoroughbred Handicap event yesterday. Shidad had never raced on dirt in Qatar be- fore, but yesterday, the four-year-old colt held on by a head against Mohamed Riyaz-trained Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club general manager Nasser Sherida al-Kaabi (fourth from right) and vice-chief steward Abdulla Rashid al-Kubaisi (right) with the winners of Qatar Cup after Eduardo Gaza VI, while Carlo Fiocchi helmed Stefano Pedroza guided Abdulatif Hussain al-Emadi-owned Mango Tango to victory in the 1700m feature yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim Ibido-saddled Shatir Bu Thaila to third place. Avranche had earlier guided Al Murqab Stud- Thoroughbred Maiden Plate event for trainer Race 4: 1. Sauda (Alberto Sanna), 2. Rahibah (Harry owned gelding Bluebeard to a half-a-length Stefano Ibido, while Alberto Sanna helmed Ju- Bentley), 3. Nairouz (Carlo Fiocchi), 4. Al Rafeaa victory in the Thoroughbred Graduation Plate lian Smart-trained Sauda to win the Purebred (Saleem Golam). Won by: 1 3/4, 3/4, 1 3/4. Owner: event for maidens, one- and two-time winners. Arabian Maiden Plate event for fi llies and mares. HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al-Thani. Trainer: The win was Zuhair Mohsen’s ward won for Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Thani al-Tha- Julian Smart. the second straight victory, this time on dirt. ni’s Sly Fly opened the day with a win in the Lo- Race 5: 1. Bluebeard (Gerald Avranche), 2. Perfect Bluebeard beat Ibrahim al-Malki-schooled cal Thoroughbred Maiden Plate event. Storm (Eduardo Pedroza), 3. Open ‘N Shut (Saleem Perfect Storm, while latter’s stablemate Open Golam), 4. Third Order (JP Guillambert). Won by: ‘N Shut rounded up the top three. RESULTS 1/2, Nk, 4. Owner: Al Murqab Stud. Trainer: Zuhair Avranche also helmed Majed Seifeddine’s Al Race 1: 1. Sly Fly (Eduardo Pedroza), 2. Gharam Mohsen. Hawjaa in the Purebred Arabian Maiden Plate Lehshiiyat (Marc Lerner), 3. Reem Brooq (Abdulla al- Race 6: 1. Khor Al Adaid (Tomas Lukasek), 2. Al Fouz event. Ahmed Kobeissi-trained Khor Al Adaid Marri), 4. Al Thakhira (Alberto Sanna). Won by: Hd, (Pier Convertino), 3. Al Mansab (Harry Bentley), 4. edged out Jassim Ghazali-schooled Al Fouz in Hd, 3/4. Owner: Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Thani Chabib (Jean Baptiste Hamel). Won by: 1/4, 8, 1 3/4. a thrilling duel for his second career victory in al-Thani. Trainer: Ibrahim al-Malki. Owner: Essa Mohamed al-Sulaiti. Trainer: Ahmed the Purebred Arabian Handicap event for horses Race 2: 1. I Am Lightning (Carlo Fiocchi), 2. Woodkid Kobeissi. rated 70 and below. (Alberto Sanna), 3. Almasah (Marvin Suerland), 4. Race 7: 1. Shidad (Gerald Avranche), 2. Gaza VI (Pier Tomas Lukasek-ridden Khor Al Adaid and Atlantic Sea (JP Guillambert). Won by: 5, Shd, 2. Convertino), 3. Shatir Bu Thaila (Carlo Fiocchi), 4. Mah- Pier Convertino-helmed Al Fouz left behind the Owner: HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al-Thani. booba (Marvin Suerland). Won by : Hd, 1, 3 1/2. Owner: rest of the fi eld, with another Ghazali ward, Al Trainer: Stefano Ibido. Osama Omer al-Dafea. Trainer: Osama Omer al-Dafea. Mansab, third under Harry Bentley. Race 3: 1. Al Hawjaa (Gerald Avranche), 2. Aws Race 8: 1. Mango Tango (Eduardo Pedroza), 2. Zman Earlier in the day, two horses owned by His (Adnan Hawa), 3. Ghalaad (Pier Convertino), 4. Awal (Alberto Sanna), 3. Regality (Pier Convertino), Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al- Oyoon Lulwah (Tomas Lukasek). Won by: 1/4, No, 4. Hillside Dream (Harry Bentley). Won by: 1, 1/4, 1/4. Thani made a winning debut with Carlo Fioc- 1/4. Owner: Rashid bin Mubarak al-Jafali al-Naimi. Owner: Abdulatif Hussain al-Emadi. Trainer: Ibrahim Action from the Thoroughbred Graduation Plate event at the QREC yesterday. Gerald Avranche chi guiding I Am Lightning to victory in the Trainer: Majed Seifeddine. al-Malki. rode Zuhair Mohsen-trained Bluebeard to victory in the 1900m race.

IBSF WORLD SNOOKER CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW JUMPING India’s Advani reaches knockouts Qatari riders in spotlight at By Sports Reporter Doha Al Rayyan Championship

By Sports Reporter ia, who fi nished second thrice in the Qatar Inter- wo-time IBSF world snooker cham- India’s Pankaj Advani compiled Doha national championship, will be looking to break pion Pankaj Advani compiled the the tournament’s highest break the victory drought. tournament’s highest break so far to so far at 138 points in the match The other star attractions in the fi eld are Athi- breeze into the knockout stages of the against Brazil’s Victor Sarkis atari riders will once again be the cy- na Onassis of Greece, Jordan’s Hani Bisharat Ib- T2017 IBSF World Snooker Championship at nosure of all eyes at the QNB Al Rayyan rahim, Vladimir Tuganov of Russia and Turkey’s yesterday. (IBSF) Al Arabi Sports Club Indoor Hall yesterday. Show Jumping Championship, which Derin Demirsoy. Riders from UK, Indonesia, Uz- Advani, who won the 150-Up format of the kicks off today at the Qatar Equestrian bekistan and Pakistan will also make their pres- IBSF World Billiards Championship last week Federation’sQ outdoor arena, ence felt. There are nine classes in total with three at the same venue, is a strong title contender The three-day QR 1.7mn four-star event is the each to be contested today, tomorrow and on Sat- in the snooker event too. second of its kind to be held in Doha in two weeks, urday. The organisers have put in place plenty of Yesterday, in his fi nal group match against following the Qatar International championship activities for families to enjoy at QEF, with vari- Victor Sarkis of Brazil, Advani’s 138-point last week. The last two show jumping events in ous food stalls in place, fun zone for kids and raf- break in the last frame of the game brought Qatar has been a glorious one for home riders. fl e draws with lap tops, iPads and mobile phones down curtains on the one-sided game. First Bassem Hassan Mohamed registered a in prizes to be won. There entry to the venue over Advani’s eff ort surpassed the 136-point phenomenal win in the Doha leg of the Global three days is free. The events will also be broad- break by Sarkis’ compatriot Igor Figueiredo Champions Tour at Al Shaqab. While Bassem cast live on Al Kass sports channel. from a few days ago. The 32-year-old from won again last week, it was Sheikh Ali bin Kha- Indian city of Bengaluru has now entered the lid al-Thani who stole the thunder at the Qatar SCHEDULE last-64 single elimination round winning 16 international show jumping championship as the Today: 3pm: Two Phases 120 cm; 5:40pm: Table A, frames in four matches at the defi cit of two, Olympic rider won the Grand Prix event. Against the clock 130/135 cm; 7:30pm: Special Two one each to Khamis Alobaidli of Qatar and Both Bassem and Sheikh Ali will once again be Phases 145 cm Karl Fitzpatrick of Ireland. in action this weekend as they aim to continue Tomorrow: 3pm: Table A, Against the clock with Last year’s fi nalist Andrew Pagett beat Ali their winning run. The duo will be looking to rack Jump 120 cm; 5:25pm: Table A, Against the clock with Hussein of Iraq 4-1 for his place in the knock- points, with Saturday’s Grand Prix being the Ara- Jump Off 135 cm; 7:35pm: Qualifying competition for out stages. Pakistan’s Mohamed Asif, the bian League qualifying event for the World Cup to the FEI World Cup™ Table A, Against the clock 145 cm 2012 world champion, overcame a 1-3 defi cit be held in France next April. On Saturday: 3pm: Table A, Against the clock 130/135 against Poland’s Mateusz Baranowski in em- The annual event has attracted top riders from cm; 5pm: Table A, One Round + Winning Round 145 phatic fashion to post a 4-3 win for his place Asia and Europe. Two-time Global Champions cm; 7pm: Grand Prix - World Cup Competition | Two in the last 64. On Tuesday, Asif had suff ered a games armed with breaks of 76 and 50 in the Saif too beat Austria’s Andreas Ploner 4-2 for Tour winner Edwina Tops-Alexander of Austral- Rounds 160 cm 1-4 defeat at the hands of Myanmar’s Ko Htet. second and fourth frame. the knockout rounds that start today. Yesterday, Asif might have seen his chances However, Asif came back strong to win Three teenagers, Ivan Kakovsky (18) of slip away despite a brilliant start that saw him three frames on the trot for a thrilling victory. Russia, Mohamed Naseem Akhtar (16) of Pa- stitch together an 89-point break to take the A day after Qatar’s Bashar Abdulmajeed kistan and Yazan Alhadad (15) of Syria, also fi rst frame. Baranowski took the next three made it to the knockouts, compatriot Ahmed advanced to the next round.

QSLM officials attend Global Football Leagues Forum

Qatar Stars League Management (QSLM) CEO Hani Taleb Ballan and Chief Planning Off icer Mushtaq al-Waeli attended the Global Football Leagues Forum hosted by the USA’s Major League Soccer (MLS) in New York. A number of important issues were discussed in detail at the forum, attended by representatives of 30 professional leagues from across the world. Riders train on the eve of the QNB Al Rayyan Show Jumping Championship, which kicks off today at the Qatar Equestrian Federation’s outdoor arena. PICTURE: Lotfi Garsi