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Monday, March 4, 2019 FOOTBALL Jumada II 27, 1440 AH Jorginho fi res GULF TIMES Chelsea to victory as Kepa shines SPORT Page 2

SPOTLIGHT Dr Thani al-Kuwari elected OCA Vice-President

r Thani bin Abdulrahamn al-Kuwari, revenues are distributed among national Olym- the Second Vice-President of the Qa- pic committees. tar Olympic Committee (QOC), was Sheikh Ahmad welcomed the delegates to elected Vice-President of the Olympic the Arnoma Hotel in the presence of Thai- CouncilD of Asia (OCA) during its General Assem- land’s Minister of Tourism and Sport, Weerasak bly meeting in Bangkok yesterday. Kowsurat, and the Deputy Prime Minister and A delegation headed by HE Sheikh Joaan bin Thailand National Olympic Committee Presi- Hamad al-Thani, the President of the QOC, and dent, Gen. Prawit Wongsuwang. including QOC Secretary-General Jassim al- After the official speeches, the OCA showed Buenain and Director of the QOC Sport Affairs a short video of the history of the Asian Games, Department Khaleel al-Jabir represented Qatar which dates back to the First Far Eastern Cham- at the meeting. pionship Games in 1913 in Manila before the Meanwhile, Kuwait’s Sheikh Ahmad al-Fahad first Asian Games took place in 1951 in New al-Sabah was re-elected President of the OCA. Delhi. With the next two Asian Games host cit- Sheikh Ahmad won a new five-year term un- ies already decided through to 2026, this gives til 2024, the OCA said, extending a reign that the movement a history of 113 years. started in 1991 over the body that controls the The Sheikh Fahad Hiroshima Asia Sports Asian Games and other regional events. Fund award was presented to the former Mayor “I will do all I can to continue working for of Hiroshima at the 1994 Asian Games, Takashi this organisation,” he said at the OCA general Hiraoka. assembly in Bangkok. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, the President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, Dr Thani bin Abdulrahman al-Kuwari, the Second Vice-President Among his Olympic duties is leading Olym- OCA’s 12th Asian Games in the Japanese city. of the Qatar Olympic Committee and Jassim al-Buenainin, Secretary-General of the Qatar Olympic Committee, attend the Olympic Council of Asia’s pic Solidarity, which decides how broadcast Hiraoka was the Mayor from 1991 to 1999. General Assembly in Bangkok.

FOCUS GOLF England Ryder Cup star David Qatar clubs in focus Howell set for as Asian Champions Doha return League starts today Al Rayyan take on Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad today; Al Sadd, Duhail in action tomorrow

Agencies Doha

ith the Asian Cup re- cently added to their By Sports Reporter trophy cabinet, Qatari Doha soccer is preparing Wfor an all-out assault on the Asian Champions League. Beware of the wind!” is David Howell’s sound The continental club champion- advice on how to play the challenging Peter Har- ship launches today with Al Duhail radine-designed Doha Golf Club when the 22nd looking to become the fi rst club “staging of the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters from west Asia to claim the title gets underway on March 7. since fellow Al Sadd in 2011. Howell has come close to being an ever-present Al Duhail have already made competitor in the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters. waves before a ball has been kicked. Since playing in the inaugural event in 1998, the current Coached by Jose Mourinho’s European Tour Tournament Committee Chairman has long-time assistant Rui Faria, they missed only the 2005 and 2007 editions. have already made some key sign- In that time, the likeable Englishman, who is also a ings. regular television golf pundit and broadcaster, has had Just days after signing Moroc- fi ve top-10 fi nishes and came in fourth in 2003, just co international defender Mehdi three shots off the winner, South Africa’s Darren Fi- Benatia from Juventus, Al Duhail chardt. splashed a record $40 million to “I’m a great fan of Doha Golf Club and the Commer- capture highly-rated Japan inter- cial Bank Qatar Masters,” says Howell, who has played national winger Shoya Nakajima more than 600 tournaments in his illustrious European from Portugal’s Portimonense. Al Rayyan star Rodrigo Tabata leads Tour career. “After the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, the The fee paid for the 24-year-old a training session in Jeddah yesterday. Qatar Masters is the oldest and most well-established eclipsed the $29 million paid by Al Rayyan will take on Saudi Arabia’s tournament in the Middle East and it’s a course the Parma to Roma for two-time Asian Al Ittihad in a Group D AFC Champions players love to play. Player of the Year Hidetoshi Nakata League match today. “It’s a driver’s layout,” says Howell, “but you have in 2001, making Nakajima Japan’s to make sure you respect the wind because it’s always most expensive player. there. It’s a really tough test, although there are birdie A record-equalling nine wins in Al Ahli, in group D tomorrow. Thailand’s Buriram United in group Meanwhile, Al Rayyan will take ance in the competition, although and eagle chances to be had. The 639-yard par-5 ninth a row took Al Duhail to the verge of Al Duhail, meanwhile, begin G, which also includes two-time on Saudi Arabia’a Al Ittihad today they have yet to progress beyond is the longest on the course, yet the par-4 16th is an ea- the 2018 semi-fi nals. their campaign against Iran’s Es- winners Jeonbuk Motors from in Jeddah. the group stage. gle opportunity and if you can produce a big hit on the The squad featured fi ve of the teghlal on Tuesday in group C, South Korea and China’s resurgent The Saudi side are two-time They defeated the Islamic Re- 589-yard par-5, 18th it can provide the perfect place for side that would go on to win the which also features former winners Beijing Guoan. AFC Champions League winners, public of Iran’s Saipa 3-1 in the a spectacular fi nish.” Asian Cup for Qatar in the United Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates Roger Schmidt’s Beijing will having lifted the trophy in 2004 play-off round to qualify for the Howell, who was on the winning team in both his ap- Arab Emirates, including top scorer and Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal. be one of four teams looking to and 2005, but they have been less tournament but have lost both their pearances in The Ryder Cup, in 2004 at Oakland Hills, Almoez Ali and infl uential mid- Japan’s reigning champions take the title back to China for of a force in recent years and exited Qatar Stars League games since and Michigan, USA, and in 2006 at the K Club in Kildare, fi elder Assim Madibo. Kashima Antlers, who won last the fi rst time since the second of at the group stage in their last ap- are fourth in the table. Ireland, by the same emphatic score of 18.5 to 9.5, says: Al Duhail are joined Al Sadd, year’s two-legged decider against Guangzhou Evergrande’s two tri- pearance. Al Ittihad are enduring Defender Mohamed al-Alawi “It’s a great fi eld as always with plenty of former Ryder semi-fi nalists last year, and Al Iranian side Persepolis 2-0, begin umphs in 2015. a diffi cult season in the Saudi Pro believes that the 2019 edition could Cup players and past winners - it’s an interesting com- Rayyan. Al Rayyan take on two- their defence against Malaysian Evergrande are also represented, League and currently sit in the bot- be a special one for The Lions. bination of young, rising stars competing with experi- time winners Al Ittihad from Saudi debutants Johor Darul Ta’zim tp- along with big-spending domestic tom two, but go into the game on “I would like to give my congrat- enced campaigners which should add up to an exciting Arabia today in Group B while Al day. league winners Shanghai SIPG and the back of a 1-1 draw with Jeddah ulations to the people of Qatar and four days.” Sadd, impressive last season with Urawa Red Diamonds, who won Shandong Luneng in the 32-team rivals Al Ahli on Friday. the fans of Al Rayyan for this vic- The Commercial Bank Qatar Masters takes place at Xavi Hernandez at the heart of the title in 2017, return after miss- tournament, which runs until mid- Tournament regulars Al Rayyan tory. Hopefully now the best is yet Doha Golf Club from March 7-10. Entry for spectators midfi eld, face another Saudi side, ing the 2018 edition and take on November. are set to make their ninth appear- to come,” said the 32-year-old. is free of charge. Gulf Times 2 Monday, March 4, 2019 FOOTBALL

EPL FOCUS Brendan Rodgers’s return starts with Watford defeat

AFP looked set for all three points as Leicester laboured despite domi- Liverpool London nating possession. One incisive Youri Tielemans rendan Rodgers’s fi rst pass, though, undid the Watford match as Leicester boss defence and Jamie Vardy prodded ended in a dramatic de- home his 10th goal of the season rue missed feat as Andre Gray scored 15 minutes from time. Bin stoppage time to give Watford a Leicester even had a chance to 2-1 win at Vicarage Road. take all three points when captain Rodgers left Scottish cham- Wes Morgan headed wide. pions Celtic to take charge of the Instead, they were hit by a chances in Foxes on Tuesday after winning sucker punch when Gray bril- seven domestic trophies north of liantly controlled Deeney’s lofted the border. But the former Liver- pass and kept his cool to fi re low pool boss was given a tough wel- past Kasper Schmeichel to spark come back to the Premier League contrasting reactions in the dug- draw with when substitute Gray pounced on outs. A delighted Javi Gracia saw Troy Deeney’s fi ne through ball. his side move level on points with The Hornets had taken an early Wolves in seventh for what could lead when Deeney fl icked home be a Europa League place de- Gerard Deulofeu’s free-kick and Watford’s Andre Gray celebrates scoring their second goal with teammates yesterday. pending on who wins the FA Cup. Everton

SPOTLIGHT Jorginho fi res Chelsea to victory as Kepa shines Chelsea were indebted to Kepa for a series of superb saves after the break

Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk in action with Everton players during the Premier League clash yesterday.

AFP ated plenty of excitement and Liverpool atmosphere but little in the way of goalmouth incident. Everton have endured a disap- iverpool were left to re- pointing season after spending gret two huge missed big in the summer to back Marco chances by Mohamed Silva and their lack of quality Salah as Everton held out on the ball showed despite their Lfor a 0-0 draw in the Merseyside commitment and desire to close derby yesterday. Liverpool down. Jurgen Klopp’s men now trail The hosts at least opened the champions Manchester City by second-half with slightly more a point at the top of the Premier urgency, Dominic Calvert-Lewin League with nine games remain- rising to meet an early Lucas ing. Digne corner, with a header that Salah was denied by Everton was saved comfortably by Alis- goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and son Becker. a last-ditch challenge by Michael At the other end, Salah Keane either side of half-time as spurned another chance when Liverpool dropped points for the the ball broke his way off Kurt fourth time in six league games. Zouma, but the Egyptian took a Fabinho was also guilty of heavy touch and allowed Keane wasting a big opportunity 21 to make a stunning recovery minutes from time as Lucas tackle. Digne cleared when the Brazilian Klopp had seen enough by just took an age to control Virgil van after the hour mark and brought Dijk’s knockdown. on James Milner and Roberto Everton remain without a win Firmino, recovered from his re- in the Merseyside derby stretch- cent ankle injury, in a bid to turn ing back to 2010, but may have one point into three. done enough to stop their local The Brazilian almost made an rivals from winning the title for instant impact, marauding for- the fi rst time in 29 years. ward with Salah, but his cross Salah has now scored just once proved a little long for Sadio in his past six matches and wast- Mane who could only head back ed by a distance the best chance across goal harmlessly. for either side from the sort of Van Dijk was again peerless in situation he fi nished with ease his defensive duties and nearly in a 44-goal debut season at An- set up the winner had Fabinho fi eld last year. been sharper to fi re home the Pickford was at fault for Liv- Dutchman’s knock down. Chelsea’s Jorginho celebrates scoring against Fulham yesterday. erpool’s 96th minute winner Roared on by an increasingly when the sides last met in De- vocal home crowd, Everton also AFP Parker’s fi rst game following Chambers was left totally un- cember, but the England number created some late chances with a London the midweek sacking of Claudio marked when Fulham took the one went some way to making cross from substitute Richarlison Ranieri, second-bottom Fulham corner quickly, Babel picking amends by standing tall to block coming within inches of fi nding have lost eight of their past nine out his team-mate at the far post as Salah bore down on goal be- the sliding Bernard. aurizio Sarri de- league games and sit 10 points for a well-taken fi nish. fore Seamus Coleman threw However, for the third time in clared the Kepa Ar- from safety. Three minutes later, Eden himself in the way of a follow-up Liverpool’s last four matches the rizabalaga contro- Kepa’s return almost started Hazard was the catalyst for attempt from Jordan Henderson. game ended scoreless to hand versy was over after in embarrassing fashion when Chelsea’s second goal with an That was a rare glimpse of City the initiative in the title Mthe Chelsea goalkeeper began he made a complete hash of incisive run into the Fulham goal in a fi rst-half which gener- race. to make amends for his Wem- catching Kevin McDonald’s area, the Belgian laying the ball bley mutiny with an impressive cross in a swirling wind, the ball back to the Jorginho, who guided display in yesterday’s 2-1 win at slipping through his grasp as he a superb strike into the top cor- Fulham. was challenged by Ryan Babel. ner from 18 yards. De Bruyne set for spell out with injury Sarri’s side took the lead It would have been an open Fulham were fi nding it im- through Gonzalo Higuain before goal for Babel, but the Fulham possible to stifl e Willian and London: Manchester City play- De Bruyne was one of the Calum Chambers equalised at winger was slow to react and Azpilicueta down the right and maker Kevin De Bruyne faces standout performers for City Craven Cottage. Kepa scrambled back to dive on the pair combined to tee up Hi- a spell on the sidelines after last season with 12 goals and 21 In an incident-packed fi rst the ball.Chelsea made the most guain, whose powerful strike picking up a hamstring injury in assists in all competitions but he half, the much-maligned Chelsea’s Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga makes a late of their escape to take the lead in drew a brilliant one-handed Saturday’s 1-0 Premier League has struggled with knee injuries Jorginho restored Chelsea’s save against Fulham. the 20th minute. save from Sergio Rico. win at Bournemouth, manager in the current campaign, making lead with his fi rst goal since the Willian’s pass picked out Exploiting the space left by Pep Guardiola said. 14 league appearances. opening weekend of the season. the world’s most expensive very good. Cesar Azpilicueta’s run down Fulham’s creaky defence, Haz- De Bruyne was substituted in Guardiola suggested City’s busy Chelsea were indebted to keeper returned in place of Willy “Kepa is a man. He was able to the right and Chelsea’s captain ard and Willian both tested Rico the first half of the game with schedule, as they compete for Kepa for a series of superb saves Caballero after his one-game react very well, as we have seen whipped over a cross that Hi- with low drives soon after the his replacement Riyad Mahrez trophies in four competitions, that preserved their lead af- demotion. today.”Sarri believes Chelsea’s guain met with an instinctive restart.Even with the perenni- scoring the winner to help the has not helped. ter the break, lifting the sixth- Revealing he didn’t tell Kepa revival this week, coupled with volleyed fi nish.It was Higuain’s ally inconsistent David Luiz left champions take a two-point lead “I think we’ve played 25 games placed Blues within two points he had been recalled until a team Tottenham’s poor form, has third goal in eight games since on the bench, there were still over Liverpool, who drew with in 93 days, one every three days, of fourth-placed Manchester meeting on the day of the game, made the top-four chase even the Argentine striker joined on moments of uncertainty from Everton yesterday. Defender so it’s a physiological issue,” the United, with a game in hand. Sarri said: “He played very well. tighter. We had a great oppor- loan from Juventus in January. Chelsea at back. John Stones was also taken off Spaniard added. “The body is not Sarri had dropped Kepa for It was a normal decision. He tunity today. Now we are only Kepa redeemed himself with Mitrovic blasted just over but the England international’s able to recover so sometimes the Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Totten- made a big mistake, he paid for two points from the top four. We an acrobatic save to keep out from 20 yards and Tom Cair- problem is not as serious. “Kevin muscle says ‘hello, that’s enough’. ham on Wednesday as punish- it. Now the situation is closed. have to fi ght to the last minute of Aleksandar Mitrovic’s volley ney’s long-range eff ort forced a will be out for a while with a “We don’t give players time to re- ment for the Spaniard’s refusal “I can kill him, but I don’t the last match,” he said. from Ryan Sessegnon’s cross. good stop from Kepa. muscular problem — hamstring. cover. We play a game, then after, to be substituted during last think it is right. With another “We are fi ghting. In the last But from the resulting cor- Joe Bryan forced Kepa to make John I think is more precaution. when they are not recovered, we weekend’s League Cup fi nal de- man I could have done it in an- four matches I think we did ner, Chelsea were punished for another solid save and the Span- We didn’t take a risk, we’ll see play another game. There is only feat against Manchester City. other way, but I know him well. well.” an awful piece of defending as iard was fi rmly back in Sarri’s tomorrow,” Guardiola told the a short amount of time and it is But Sarri had insisted Kepa “He has a good mentality. His Despite an improved dis- Fulham grabbed a 28th-minute good graces by the time he re- British media. very demanding. “ remained his “fi rst choice” and behaviour during the week was play in caretaker manager Scott equaliser. pelled Mitrovic’s late header. Gulf Times Monday, March 4, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

LA LIGA LIGUE 1 Dembele double in Barcelona show Lyon’s Toulouse win AFP with 10 men as former Bastia Paris midfi elder Yannick Cahuzac was sent off for the 11th time in his Ligue 1 career. oussa Dembele scored twice as LILLE SEE OFF DIJON Lyon thrashed Tou- Lille remain second behind Paris defensive strength louse 5-1 yesterday Saint-Germain after Christophe Mto strengthen their grip on a Galtier’s men claimed a narrow top-three place in France, while 1-0 win over struggling Dijon. second-placed Lille edged out With PSG still 17 points clear Dijon. at the top with a game in hand, Bruno Genesio’s Lyon, who are Lille are well-placed to secure a also through to the French Cup return to the Champions League to see off Real again semi-fi nals and claimed a 0-0 group stage for the fi rst time fi rst-leg draw in the Champions since 2012. League last 16 against Barcelona, Dijon, who remain fi ve points ‘You always suff er a bit at the Bernabeu but we know we have a great team’ continued their strong season from safety in 19th spot, made by moving six points clear of life tough for Lille at the Stade Reuters fourth-placed Saint-Etienne. Pierre-Mauroy until Wesley Madrid The home side took less than Lautoa put through his own net 10 minutes to break the dead- in the 72nd minute. lock at the Groupama Stadium “We will continue to work to here was little sign of as Memphis Depay fi red home a be able to hold off the teams who Barcelona’s world fa- wonderful individual goal. want to take our place, qualify- mous attacking play in Mathieu Dossevi levelled for ing for the Champions League is their 1-0 win at Real Toulouse on the quarter-hour a dream we will try to achieve,” TMadrid on Saturday in La Liga as mark, but the visitors folded after said Lille forward Rui Fonte. the team renowned for scoring Bertrand Traore restored Lyon’s Elsewhere, Patrick Vieira’s goals produced a rare master- advantage in the 30th minute. Nice boosted their hopes of class in defending, led by centre Nabil Fekir netted a penalty qualifying for next season’s Eu- backs Gerard Pique and Clement fi ve minutes later, and former ropa League as Youcef Atal’s Lenglet. Celtic striker Dembele com- 20th-minute strike was enough Ivan Rakitic scored the de- pounded Toulouse’s misery in to see off Strasbourg 1-0. cisive goal in a cagey ‘Clasico’ the second half. Nice are seventh in the table, that lacked the drama associated He powered through the pitiful three points adrift of fourth- with the fi xture, sending the away defence midway through placed Saint-Etienne. La Liga leaders 12 points clear the second period and slotted a of Real and surely ending their left-footed shot into the corner, RESULTS hopes of getting back in the title before tapping in his 13th goal Guingamp 0 Nantes 0 race. of the season shortly afterwards Lille 1 (Lautoa 72-og) Dijon 0 But the victory, coming hot on from Fekir’s low cross. Nice 1 (Atal 20) Strasbourg 0 the heels of the 3-0 win at the Traore also had another goal Lyon 5 (Depay 10, Traore 30, Santiago Bernabeu in the Copa ruled out by VAR for off side, Fekir 35-pen, Dembele 67, 71) del Rey semi-fi nals, was mostly while Toulouse fi nished the game Toulouse 1 (Dossevi 15) down to the steely defending of Pique and Lenglet, who blocked seven shots between them, forming a human shield in front of goal. “Every time Madrid attacked us, Pique or Lenglet cleared the danger, I had very little work to do because of them,” said Barca goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Ste- gen. “We fought and suff ered in the last half hour, we defended Barcelona’s Ivan Rakitic (right) celebrates his goal with teammate Lionel Messi during the La Liga match against Real Madrid on Saturday. (AFP) as a team. “You always suff er a bit at the Bernabeu but we know we have Morata double keeps Atletico’s title hopes alive a great team and we fought hard for the victory. AFP by Diego Godin. Real Betis remain seventh, but “The last few years have been Madrid The 26-year-old, who went four six points adrift of Getafe. very good here, we’ve had a lot games without a goal after Uruguayan defender Lean- of success here and I hope it joining on loan from Chelsea in dro Cabrera gave Getafe a stays that way.” lvaro Morata’s first-half January, made it three in two 20th-minute lead by nodding Match winner Rakitic added: double fired 10-man matches shortly afterwards, hav- in Francisco Portillo’s corner, Lyon’s Moussa Dembele (left) scores a goal during the Ligue 1 match “We worked very hard for this AAtletico Madrid to a ing opened his Atletico account before Jaime Mata slotted against Toulouse in Decines-Charpieu near Lyon yesterday. (AFP) victory and we deserve it. Some- 2-0 victory at Real Sociedad last weekend against Villarreal. in a second on the stroke of times you have to fi ght, you have yesterday as Diego Simeone’s half-time. to stick your leg in and we are men kept their slim La Liga title GETAFE BOOST CHAMPIONS Former Spain winger Joaquin, very happy.” hopes alive. LEAGUE BID 37, gave Betis hope with a Five-goal Stuttgart end poor run, Pique led jubilant celebra- The Spain international striker Earlier yesterday, little Getafe powerful drive 15 minutes from leave Hanover in danger tions in the middle of the scored twice in three first-half Atletico Madrid’s Alvaro Morata gave their hopes of qualifying time, but the home side slipped pitch after the full time whis- minutes as Atletico cut the gap (right) celebrates his goal for a maiden Champions League to a second damaging defeat in DPA Jonathas responded with a tle. to leaders Barcelona back to against Real Sociedad. (AFP) campaign a massive boost with three days after their Copa del Berlin header in the 68th minute, but He praised the team for keep- seven points after the reigning a 2-1 victory at fellow European Rey semi-final loss to Valencia. Steven Zuber’s deflected shot ing their heads in the area when champions’ 1-0 Clasico win Betis and Real Madrid last hopefuls Real Betis. 12 minutes from time and a Real kept attacking but added over third-placed Real Madrid month had ended an 18-match Pepe Bordalas’ side, who have RESULTS fB Stuttgart ended an second from Zuber three min- that the title was not done and on Saturday. unbeaten run. twice played in the Europa Eibar 1 (Enrich 74) Celta eight-game winless se- utes later made it a comfort- dusted. Midfielder Koke was dismissed After a slow start to the con- League before, now sit two Vigo 0 Vries by defeating fellow able first win of the year for “We knew how to suff er,” just after the hour mark, but test, Morata gave Atletico the points clear of Alaves in fourth Real Betis 1 (Joaquin 75) strugglers Hanover 5-1 in the the home side. Pique said. Atletico have now won three lead on the half-hour mark by place in La Liga, with another Getafe 2 (Cabrera 20, Mata 44) German football Bundesliga Stuttgart stay third-last but are “We have made a real state- straight league games after nodding home after Thomas seven sides within nine points of Real Sociedad 0 Atletico yesterday. now five points clear of Hanover ment but it’s not definitive. back-to-back defeats by Real Lemar’s corner was flicked on the last Champions League spot. Madrid 2 (Morata 30, 33) Mario Gomez put Stuttgart and six above tailenders Nurem- We weren’t celebrating the ahead with a quick turn and left- berg, the two teams now clear league title because Atletico foot shot in the fourth minute, favourites for relegation. are still there. It’s been a per- the league yet, not at all.” more from the two games. that in these two games. We saved themselves a couple of and defender Ozan Kabak twice Stuttgart, who are at leaders fect week and we should cel- Real goalkeeper Thibaut Cour- “To win games you need to lacked accuracy, we couldn’t times, the ball just didn’t want headed in from corners in the Dortmund next Saturday, are in ebrate it, but we haven’t won tois felt his side had deserved score goals and we couldn’t do play the final pass and they to go in,” he said. 16th and 45th minutes. the relegation play-off spot, still Hanover’s Brazilian striker two points adrift of Augsburg.

SPOTLIGHT Galaxy honour Beckham on MLS opening day SERIE A Quagliarella brace AFP and a great free-kick specialist. again in the 62nd to put Toronto Los Angeles “He was an intelligent and on top. skillful player. He was simply a Mexico’s Marco Fabian an- and VAR sink SPAL great leader and a winner.” swered for the Union in the 73rd ajor League Soc- Said former Los Angeles Lak- minute but US midfi elder Nick Reuters was ruled out after a lengthy cer kicked off a new ers star Kobe Bryant, “the im- DeLeon sealed Toronto’s vic- Milan VAR review, seemingly for off - season on Saturday pact he had on the sport here in tory three minutes into stoppage side against Andrea Petagna who with 10 games and America can’t be overstated. He time. was judged to be interfering with Ma tribute to football great David was the fi rst true big name to Opening day also featured the ampdoria’s in-form play. Beckham whose arrival in 2007 come to the States.” debut of expansion squad FC veteran forward Fabio Two weeks earlier, SPAL had a helped usher in a new era for the Beckham helped pave the way Cincinnati, who lost their in- Quagliarella scored two goal disallowed and a penalty was then upstart league. for European star players to fol- augural game 4-1 to the Seattle early goals to lead his side awarded to opponents Fiorentina A statue of the former Eng- low and so it was fi tting that Sounders. toS a 2-1 win at SPAL, who were instead after offi cials spotted an land captain was unveiled by the Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored on a It is the second straight sea- left livid after another VAR deci- infringement in the SPAL area LA Galaxy outside their stadium late header Saturday to lift the son that Seattle has hosted an sion went against them in their before they broke upfi eld. in an emotional ceremony prior Galaxy to a season-opening win expansion team in the season Serie A match yesterday. Kurtic curled in a free kick to to their 2-1 victory over the Chi- over the Fire. opener. Last year they faced Los Quagliarella got off the mark pull one back in the fourth minute cago Fire. Ibrahimovic, who was second Angeles FC and suff ered a 1-0 in style when he met Bartosz Be- of stoppage time but SPAL, who Beckham’s former Galaxy in MLS last season with 22 goals loss. reszynski’s cross with an acro- are fi ve points above the relega- coach Bruce Arena and team- in his debut campaign, rushed in There was no repeat per- batic volley in the fourth minute. tion zone, had defender Thiago mate Robbie Keane, as well as Former LA Galaxy midfielder David Beckham poses beside his statue to put his header past Fire goal- formance as Cincinnati were no The 36-year-old then struck Cionek shown a straight red card Beckham’s wife, Victoria, at- at the Legends Plaza in Carson, California, on Saturday. (AFP) keeper David Ousted in the 80th match for the Sounders. again for eighth-placed Samp- for denying Gregoire Defrel a tended the ceremony. minute. Three other early matches end- doria seven minutes later with a clear scoring chance. “From day one when myself, you guys.” base salary was $6.5mn a year “We are not 100% but we ed in draws with FC Dallas and the towering header from Karol Li- Victoria, and the kids arrived in Beckham made headlines but he was promised a percent- worked to get our fi rst three New England Revolution dead- netty’s cross. RESULTS this city we felt at home and for around the world when he age of Galaxy revenues. points,” said Ibrahimovic. locked 1-1, Orlando City and New Those goals took his league Atalanta 3 (Ilicic 28, Gomez that we will be forever grateful,” moved to the United States in Beckham played for the Gal- York City level 2-2 and the New tally to 19, making him Serie A’s 34, Gosens 59) Fiorentina 1 said Beckham, who is set to be- 2007 after an illustrious career axy until 2012, taking league ti- CINCY DEBUT York Red Bulls fi nishing 1-1 with joint top scorer alongside Cris- (Muriel 3) come an MLS club owner when at Manchester United and Real tles in his fi nal two campaigns, Elsewhere, Toronto FC captain the Columbus Crew. tiano Ronaldo, of Juventus. Torino 3 (76 Belotti, Rincon expansion side Inter Miami joins Madrid. during a career that also fea- Michael Bradley’s brace lifted MLS Cup champions Atlanta, Quagliarella was still not fi n- 90+2, Zaza 90+3) Chievo 0 the league. His Galaxy deal was widely tured a stop with England’s na- the Canadian side to a 3-1 vic- with a new manager and with- ished as he struck the post with a Genoa 0 Frosinone 0 “This city has always felt like reported to be for $250mn over tional team. tory at Philadelphia in the open- out star Miguel Almiron who 30-metre drive before halftime. SPAL 1 (Kurtic 90+4) Samp- home for me. My wife, my kids, fi ve years, but in reality the “He wasn’t one of the fastest ing game of the season. decamped to Newcastle United SPAL thought they had pulled doria 2 (Quagliarella 4, 11) my parents, and my friends, I $250mn fi gure was his potential players on the fi eld, nor did he The 31-year-old US midfi eld- in January, open their campaign a goal back on the hour after Udinese 2 (De Paul 25-pen, couldn’t have had the career I earnings from salary, endorse- score many goals,” Arena said. er found the goal three minutes on Sunday against Wayne Roon- Sergio Floccari headed in from Pussetto 79) Bologna 1 (Palacio had without the support from ments and club revenue. His “He was an outstanding passer into fi rst half stoppage time and ey and DC United. Jasmin Kurtic’s free kick but it 39) Gulf Times 4 Monday, March 4, 2019 CRICKET

1ST TEST FOCUS England coaching Boult bags fi ve as duo voice Pakistan hopes on Lahore attack anniversary

AFP NZ beat Bangladesh London

revor Bayliss and Paul Soumya Sarkar’s maiden ton and Farbrace hope Pakistan can regularly host inter- Mahmudullah’s fifth century could national cricket again, 10 Tyears after the pair came under by innings not keep the visitors afloat fi re during a deadly attack in La- hore that left the country a no-go ternationals in Karachi last May. zone for sporting teams. AFP It was on March 3, 2009, that NO PLACE LIKE HOME Hamilton, New Zealand Sri Lanka’s team bus, taking the “I honestly hope — I’ve always team to the Gaddafi Stadium for a hoped — that international Test against Pakistan, was hit by cricket will return to Pakistan,” efi ant centuries from bullets and grenades in an attack said Farbrace. Soumya Sarkar and by armed militants. “It’s a tough place to play Mahmudullah were in Eight police and bystand- cricket, but it’s an unbelievably vain as Trent Boult’s ers were killed, with six others passionate country for the game fiD ve-wicket haul gave New Zea- wounded in the incident. of cricket. land a crushing victory over England coach Bayliss and as- “The sadness for me is that Bangladesh in the fi rst Test by an sistant Farbrace were both car- you’ve got players now playing innings and 52 runs in Hamilton rying out similar roles with Sri international cricket for Pakistan yesterday. Lanka at the time. — there will be players that have After the stubborn double- “I was cleaning my sunglasses, played their entire career, inter- century partnership took Bang- and the next thing, the bus jolt- national cricket for Pakistan — ladesh to 361 for four in their ed,” Farbrace, who saw a piece and never played a game in their second innings, Boult opened of shrapnel draw blood when it own country. the fi nal chapter of the Test struck his arm, told a BBC Test “For me there’s almost a bit when he bowled Soumya for 149. Match Special podcast marking of unfi nished business, and for The crucial wicket ended a the 10-year anniversary of the me to go back there, and see in- 235-run stand with Mahmudul- attack. ternational cricket played in La- lah (146) for the fi fth wicket and “I just turned and looked over hore — for the people that lost saw Bangladesh cave in with the my shoulder, looked out the win- their lives, I think that would be, Test all over 68 runs later, just dow — I could see this guy mov- for them, to show that terror- after tea on day four. ing towards us with a gun, fi ring ism hasn’t stopped the game of “The fi ght today was as tough this gun.” cricket going ahead.” as Test cricket does get,” New It was six years until an inter- Bayliss, who said Pakistan Zealand captain Kane Wil- national team visited again, with cricket fans were “some of the best liamson said after Boult’s lethal Pakistan forced to play the ma- in the world”, endorsed former spell with the second new ball jority of their home games in the Kent and Middlesex wicketkeeper trumped the 54-over battle by United Arab Emirates — a situa- Farbrace’s comments. Soumya and Mahmudullah. tion that continues to this day. “Hopefully cricket does get It was Soumya’s maiden hun- Minnows Zimbabwe were the back there,” Bayliss said. dred and the fi fth and highest fi rst to venture into Pakistan As for his own memory of the century for Mahmudullah as after the attack, playing two attack, Bayliss said: “It was very they pounded the boundaries Twenty20 and three one-day in- calm. The only thing that was and took control of the short- ternationals in 2015. being said was on the bus, and ball barrage that decimated their Under heavy security, Sri Lan- no louder than this, was ‘oh, I’m fi rst innings. ka made an emotional return to hit’, ‘oh, so am I’, as the bullets “That plan didn’t work very the Gaddafi Stadium for a one- were fl ying through and a bit of well for us today and we had to off Twenty20 international in shrapnel. go back to trying to stop some October 2017. The West Indies “The calmness was the thing scoring for a period of time, be- also played three Twenty20 in- that stood out for me.” cause they were scoring quick- ly,” Williamson said. “There was some fantastic batting. “When the breakthrough ICC assures tight security during WC came with the second new ball, which was obviously a fairly The International cricket Coun- plan in place for the men’s long time coming, it was great New Zealand’s Trent Boult (centre) celebrates the wicket of Soumya Sarkar of Bangladesh on day four of the first Test yesterday. (AFP) cil has assured its members of a cricket World Cup,” ICC Chief that we were able to open up an tight security plan for this year’s Executive David Richardson end from that point on.” Sunday on 174 for four they World Cup in England after the said in a statement following The match had belonged to Scorecard faced a Herculean task to score Indian cricket board sought its board meetings in Dubai. New Zealand long before they a further 307 just to make New guarantees from the governing “We work closely with the au- declared their fi rst innings at a BANGLADESH 1st inn 234 all out L. Das b Boult 1 4-126 (Iqbal), 5-361 (Sarkar), Zealand bat again. body following a suicide-bomb thorities in our host countries colossal 715 for six — a fi rst in- Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews attack in Indian administered to ensure that the safety of NEW ZEALAND 1st inn 715-6 dec. M. Hasan c Raval b Wagner 16-379 (Das), 7-380 (Hasan), nings lead of 481 — but Soumya 8-413 (Jayed), 9-429 (Mah- and Kusal Mendis proved with Kashmir last month. players, off icials and fans is a and Mahmudullah were deter- BANGLADESH 2nd inn (o/n 174-4) A. Jayed b Boult 3mudullah), 10-429 (Hossain) their (rain-assisted) match-sav- The BCCI had expressed priority. mined to make crossing the fi n- ing 274-run stand in Wellington concern about security during “Should those authorities raise T. Iqbal c Watling b Southee 74 K. Ahmed not out 4 ish line as diffi cult as possible for Bowling: Boult 28-3-123-5 before Christmas it is possible to the World Cup in a letter to the the threat level of the event the hosts. S. Islam c Boult b Wagner 37 E. Hossain c Boult b Southee 0 (4w), Southee 24-4-98-3, de defy the odds in New Zealand. ICC after last month’s attack in based on intelligence, we will Mahmudullah called it a M. Haque c Taylor b Boult 8 Grandhomme 10-1-33-0, Wagner But, Soumya could not hold the disputed region that killed of course uplift our security Extras (w6) 6 24-4-104-2 (2w), Astle 15-3-58-0, “gutsy innings” as they batted M. Mithun c Williamson b Boult 0 out that long and when the new 40 Indian paramilitary troops, commitment as appropriate. together for nearly three ses- Total (all out; 103 overs) 429 Williamson 2-0-13-0 ball was taken he lasted 14 more blamed on a militant group. “We will continue to work with S. Sarkar b Boult 149 sions and produced the sixth Fall of wickets: 1-88 (Islam), RESULT: New Zealand won by deliveries before Boult ended his “As you would expect for a the ECB and our members best partnership by a Bangla- Mahmudullah c Boult b Southee 146 2-100 (Haque), 3-110 (Mithun), an innings and 52 runs resistance and the tenacity left global sporting event, the ICC, throughout the build up to desh pair. the innings. in partnership with the ECB and during the tournament to When Boult fi nally bowled Boult fi nished with fi ve for 123 (England and Wales cricket keep everyone abreast of the Soumya, the 26-year-old left- several seconds as he realised before departing the ground. lasted only 18 overs. and Tim Southee took three for Board) has a robust security situation.” hander stood motionless for the signifi cance of his wicket The remaining fi ve wickets When Bangladesh resumed 98.

SPOTLIGHT Du Plessis ton helps South Africa to easy win over Sri Lanka

AFP Johannesburg Scorecard

SRI LANKA Extras (w7) 7 R. Hendricks c Dickwella b V. Fernando 1 outh African captain Faf du Plessis hit an unbeaten N. Dickwella c and b Ngidi 8Total (47 overs) 231 F. du Plessis not out 112 century as South Africa U. Tharanga b Ngidi 9FoW: 1-13 (Dickwella), 2-23 (Tha- H. van der Dussen not out 32 cruised to an eight-wick- K. Perera c De Kock b Tahir 33 ranga), 3-99 (K. Perera), 4-101 (O. Extras (lb1, w5) 6 etS victory over Sri Lanka in the Fernando), 5-195 (De Silva), 6-210 opening one-day international in O. Fernando run out (Miller) 49 (Mendis), 7-211 (Dananjaya), 8-213 Total (2 wkts, 38.5 overs) 232 Johannesburg. K. Mendis c Van der Dussen b Tahir 60 (T. Perera), 9-219 (Sandakan) FoW: 1-14 (Hendricks), 2-150 (De The hosts won the toss at the D. de Silva st De Kock b Tahir 39 Bowling: Rabada 9-0-48-1 (2w), Kock) Wanderers Stadium, asked Sri T. Perera c Miller b Rabada 7Ngidi 10-0-60-3 (1w), Nortje Bowling: Malinga 7-0-37-0 (1w), Lanka to bat and bowled them 7-1-33-1, Pretorius 7-0-44-0, Tahir V. Fernando 5-0-43-1 (1w), Danan- A. Dananjaya run out (Van d Dussen) 0 out for 231, a total South Africa 10-1-26-3, Mulder 4-0-20-0 jaya 10-0-52-1, T. Perera 3-0-22-0, overtook with more than 11 overs L. Malinga c Tahir b Ngidi 15 De Silva 4-0-21-0, Sandakan to spare. L. Sandakan c De Kock b Nortje 3 SOUTH AFRICA 9.5-0-56-0 (2w) Du Plessis made 112 not out as RESULT: South Africa cruised to victory V. Fernando not out 1Q. de Kock lbw b Dananjaya 81 S. Africa won by 8 wkts and then praised veteran leg- spinner Imran Tahir for ensur- ing South Africa chased a modest linga rued the failure of his bats- Du Plessis both batted aggres- fore wicket to off -spinner Akila total. men to capitalise on good starts. sively against the new ball. Dananjaya for 81, made off 72 Tahir took three for 26 in ten “We lost wickets at crucial balls with 11 fours. overs as Sri Lanka were bowled times,” he said, pointing out that SCORING FREELY “Quinny is a big player,” said out for 231 after being sent in on on both occasions when a prom- Du Plessis hit three successive Du Plessis. “He puts bowlers un- a good batting pitch. He twice South Africa’s Faf du Plessis plays a shot during the first ODI against Sri Lanka yesterday. (AFP) ising partnership was broken the fours off Thisara Perera and had der real pressure.” broke partnerships that threat- other ‘in’ batsman had been dis- raced to 32 in the eighth over Du Plessis went on to his 11th ened to take Sri Lanka to a chal- tant. Cricket South Africa’s contract- Perera caught behind off a googly missed almost immediately. when he was dropped, with Lak- one-day international century lenging total. “Imran bowled brilliantly in ed players, announced last week. during a fi rst spell of one for 18 in Fernando, making his one-day shan Sandakan putting down a and fi nished with 112 not out off “He is probably my biggest the middle overs today but it is But he showed he remains a key seven overs. international debut was run out relatively straightforward chance 114 balls, with 15 fours and a six. weapon as a captain over the really important to get wickets member of the country’s one- Kusal Mendis, who top-scored one short of a half-century in at short third man. He and Rassie van der Dussen years,” Du Plessis said of Tahir. with the new ball,” said Du Ples- day bowling attack with an im- with 60, added 94 for the fi fth Tahir’s next over after Perera’s De Kock and Du Plessis were (32 not out) took South Africa to But the captain added that ear- sis. maculate performance. wicket with Dhananjaya de Silva dismissal. briefl y slowed when Sri Lanka’s victory with an unbeaten third ly strikes by Lungi Ngidi, playing Ngidi took the fi rst two wickets Tahir ended a third wicket (39) before Tahir dismissed both Reeza Hendricks was caught spinners came on but were soon wicket partnership of 82 off 96 in his fi rst international match to reduce Sri Lanka to 23 for two. stand of 76 between Kusal Perera batsmen in the fi rst two overs of behind off Vishwa Fernando in scoring freely again in a second balls. since suff ering a knee injury in Tahir, who turns 40 later this (33) and Oshada Fernando (49) his second spell. the second over of South Africa’s wicket partnership of 136 off 129 Du Plessis was named man of November, had also been impor- month, was not included among when he had the left-handed Sri Lankan captain Lasith Ma- innings but Quinton de Kock and balls before De Kock was leg be- the match. Gulf Times Monday, March 4, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA RUGBY Under-fi re Wallabies’ Cheika hits out at Curry comes up ‘dramatic’ critics

AFP forward stuff ,” he said of the Sydney relationship, while off ering lit- tle further insight into how it would work. nder-pressure Wal- “I know it’s going to be an- clutch to lead labies coach Michael other resource that we have Cheika has hit out at going on in here. He will have his “dramatic” critics a lot of stuff going on with the Uand insisted his working rela- greater game, I suppose, as tionship with new boss Scott far as the picture is concerned Johnson would be “straight- there.” forward”. Sydney-born Johnson be- The 51-year-old declared “it came Scotland’s director of Warriors past 76ers doesn’t matter how many bul- rugby in 2013 and has overseen lets people want to throw at their recent renaissance. He ‘Both teams are trying to get ready for the playoff s so the intensity was up’ me, I still love it,” adding that also served as Scotland’s inter- Australia can take advantage im coach from 2012-2014. AFP of being labelled underdogs at Cheika has also met Los Angeles this year’s World Cup after an O’Connor, who has made clear abysmal 2018. Cheika survived he won’t be afraid to voice his the axe in December after Aus- opinions. tephen Curry sank a late tie-break- tralia won just four of 13 Tests “I spoke with Michael here ing jump shot en route to 28 points last year - their worst cam- the other day, just to give him as the Golden State Warriors beat paign in decades. an idea of how we do things the Philadelphia 76ers 120-117 in a But the head coach’s powers around viewing, scouting and potentialS NBA fi nals matchup on Saturday. were diluted by having to an- looking over the players in Su- Curry also added two late free throws and swer to Johnson, who has been per Rugby and what the diff er- a layup for the two-time defending league recruited from Scotland to take ences are,” he said. champion Warriors, who wanted to get up a new director of rugby role “Then when Scott gets back their March schedule off to a fl ying start later this month. I am sure we will share ideas after a stagnant February. He must also work with a around that table and come up Kevin Durant delivered a game-high three-man selection panel with the best selections and 34 points, and DeMarcus Cousins had his - himself, Johnson and the the best opportunities as well.” highest-scoring game since joining Gold- recently-appointed Michael Cheika watched Wales, Eng- en State with 25 as the Warriors snapped a O’Connor. land and France during his trip. two-game losing streak. “Both teams are Cheika had not spoken pub- Wales are in Australia’s World trying to get ready for the playoff s so the licly since Johnson was re- Cup pool group and England intensity was up,” said Durant. cruited but broke his silence and France are potential quar- Curry’s tie-breaking jumper made it in a video posted on the Wal- ter-fi nal opponents. 113-111 with 2:35 to go after 76ers backup labies’ Facebook page on Sat- “There is real intensity over Mike Scott had hit two free throws to pro- urday evening. there. Wales and England are duce the third and fi nal tie of the fourth “It’s a game you love and it both playing a strong, kick, quarter. First place Golden State, who doesn’t matter how many bul- defence, pressure game and went 7-4 in February, have never had a lets people want to throw at they’re very good at it,” he said. losing trip of four or more games in the me, I still love it,” he said. “It gave me a really good coach Steve Kerr era. “That propensity to be dra- sense of what’s important to Ben Simmons fi nished with a triple matic, or over-dramatic, I am those teams.” double with 25 points, 15 rebounds and not really sure where that came Australia, beaten fi nalists at 11 assists for the second place 76ers, who from. Maybe there are a few the 2015 World Cup, have fallen came into the game off a two-game road people out there that need that to number six in the world and sweep of New Orleans and Oklahoma City. to survive in their own world, few give them much chance of The Warriors had almost everybody everything has got to be drama. winning in Japan. available on Saturday after resting key “Truth is important and it But Cheika believes this players in their recent losses, but the 76ers usually comes out in the end,” could work in their favour. were without star big man Joel Embiid. he added cryptically. “We will be going into the The all-star centre has missed the past Cheika said he had spo- tournament, all the tourna- four games with tendinitis in his left knee ken with Johnson but did not ments this year, both Rugby and coach Brett Brown isn’t sure exactly meet him during a recent trip Championship and World Cup, when he will be able to return. to Britain to watch Six Nations as underdogs. We have to take Embiid, averaging 27.3 points and 13.5 games. “It’s pretty straight- advantage of that.” rebounds in 54 games for the Sixers, said he expects to play again next week. Klay Thompson did not play for Golden State because of a sore right knee. Beaumont invites Fiji to World Curry picked up his fourth foul with League talks in March 8:15 left in the third and sat the rest of the quarter. But with Curry back in the lineup World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont announced yesterday in the fourth, the Warriors thwarted the he will meet with Rugby bosses including off icials from Fiji on 76ers comeback bid. “He took over the March 14 to discuss the proposition of a world league. game for us,” Durant said of Curry. The world’s governing body was widely criticised by players’ “We need that from him.” unions from across the globe for an idea of a potential 12-team Deandre Ayton had 26 points and 10 league. Reports claimed that Fiji as well as fellow Pacific Island- rebounds and the Phoenix Suns avoided Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (right) reacts after a three pointer against the Philadelphia 76ers during the third quarter ers Tonga and Samoa would be excluded but a dozen sides from their fi rst season sweep in 19 years against at Wells Fargo Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports the Six Nations, the Rugby Championship and Japan and the US the visiting Los Angeles Lakers with a 118- would participate. 109 victory on Saturday night. ers cut the defi cit to fi ve on a 3-pointer by quarter. Phoenix scored the fi nal four The reported plan ruled out promotion and relegation for at Devin Booker scored 16 of his 25 points Ingram with 3:50 left. James missed two points to take a 66-59 lead into the break. RESULTS least 10 seasons, meaning the Pacific Islands’ countries as well in the second half and Josh Jackson scored free throws that would have narrowed the The Suns used an 11-2 run to break a 15- Golden State 120-117 Philadelphia as other rising nations such as Georgia, would have no chance to 16 off the bench for Phoenix, which has defi cit to three with 47.4 seconds left. 15 tie and take a 26-17 lead with 3:23 left in win a place later. A boycott of this year’s World Cup was mooted won two of three after losing 17 straight. Lakers coach Luke Walton went with a the fi rst quarter. Phoenix led by as many Memphis 111-81 Dallas by the London-based Pacific Rugby Players Welfare (PRPW) on LeBron James had 27 points, nine re- bigger lineup in the second half and start- as 10 before the Lakers trimmed the defi - San Antonio 116-102 Oklahoma Friday to include even those of Pacific Island origin playing in bounds and 16 assists for the Lakers, who ed the 7-foot McGee over shooting guard cit to 33-26 entering the second quarter. Miami 117-88 Brooklyn other teams. have lost four of fi ve to drop 4 1/2 games Reggie Bullock. Los Angeles pulled within James made 10 fi eld goals to give him “Contrary to reports, no decisions have been made. This is an New Orleans 120-112 Denver back of the fi nal playoff spot in the West- fi ve with 7:30 left in the third, but the 11,726 for his career, moving him past ongoing and complex process with multiple stakeholders, some ern Conference. Brandon Ingram scored Suns quickly went back up by double fi g- former Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (11,719) Phoenix 118-109 Lakers with diff ering views,” Beaumont said in a statement. 25 points and JaVale McGee went 10 of 10 ures and took a 95-78 lead into the fourth for fi fth all-time in the NBA. Utah 115-111 Milwaukee “Only by working together in the interests of the global game from the fi eld in adding 21 points off the quarter, their biggest of the game. Lakers point guard Rajon Rondo had can we achieve something truly impactful in this important area Orlando 117-112 Indiana bench for Los Angeles. The Suns led 55-41 with 5:21 left in the four assists to give him (6,822) for his NBA for Rugby’s future global growth. I look forward to a constructive The Suns led by as many as 19 points fi rst half before the Lakers cut the defi cit career and move past Deron Williams Detroit 129-93 Cleveland debate with my colleagues and productive outcomes,” he added. early in the fourth quarter before the Lak- to three for the third time in the second (6,819) for 20th all-time.

NHL Benn nets hat-trick to lead Stars past Blues 4-1 Reuters WILD EXTEND WINNING STREAK, RESULTS Dalals SNAP CALGARY’S 4-2 Matt Read scored the go-ahead goal early in Edmonton 4-0 Columbus the third period as the visiting Minnesota amie Benn returned from a brief injury Los Angeles 6-3 Chicago Wild spoiled a festive Saturday night in Cal- absence to record a hat trick and help Boston 1-0 New Jersey gary with a 4-2 victory over the Flames. the visiting Dallas Stars beat the St. Toronto 5-2 Buff alo Prior to the contest, the Flames honoured Louis Blues for the second time in 10 former captain Jarome Iginla and sent his J Pittsburgh 5-1 Montreal days, 4-1 on Saturday night. signature No. 12 to the rafters at Scotiabank Defenseman John Klingberg had a goal Tampa Bay 5-1 Ottawa Saddledome. Iginla, who spent 16 seasons with two assists, and Ben Bishop stopped 29 Carolina 4-3 Florida with the Flames, is the club’s all-time leader shots for the Stars, who continued their push in goals (525), points (1,095) and regular-sea- toward the Western Conference playoff s by Arizona 3-1 Detroit son games played (1,219). completing a 3-1-0 road trip. Dallas 4-1 St. Louis Defenseman Ryan Suter collected a goal Dallas, which ended the Blues’ team- Minnesota 4-2 Calgary and an assist, and Eric Staal and Ryan Donato record 11-game winning streak with a 5-2 also tallied for the Wild, who have won fi ve in victory on Feb. 21, snapped their seven-game and skated untouched through the slot to a row to remain one point behind Dallas for home winning stretch Saturday. send one past Binnington. the top wild-card spot in the Western Con- Though third in the Central Division and Things were quiet much of the second ference. three points better than Dallas, St. Louis has period until some pushing and shoving be- Devan Dubnyk, who turned aside 35 shots managed just nine non-shootout goals while tween multiple players on both sides awoke on Saturday, has permitted eight goals dur- going 2-3-1 since the 11-game run. Blues the home crowd with just over six minutes to ing his fi ve-start winning streak. rookie Jordan Binnington made 17 saves dur- play. Then with 4:20 left in the second, St. Sean Monahan scored, and defenseman ing his fi rst loss in eight starts at home. Louis’ Alex Pietrangelo scored to cut Dallas’ Travis Hamonic also tallied for the Flames, Benn, meanwhile, has fi ve goals in the last lead in half. who saw their season-high seven-game win- two games against the Blues, and 19 with 39 But after the Blues’ Mackenzie MacEach- ning streak come to a halt. points in 39 career contests versus St. Louis. ern drew a retaliatory roughing call, Benn With the score tied at 1, Mike Smith (19 Back from missing the previous two games responded on the power play to push the saves) found himself caught behind the net with an upper-body injury, Benn got Dallas Stars’ lead back to two as he delivered a quick battling for the puck with Minnesota’s Joel on the board when he defl ected home a blast wrister by Binnington at 17:11 in the period. Eriksson Ek and Calgary defenseman Noah from Taylor Fedun at 16:52 into the fi rst pe- He clinched the victory with a late empty- Hanifi n. riod. netter. The puck ultimately squirted out front Dallas Stars left wing Jamie Benn (centre) is congratulated by goaltender Ben Bishop (left) and defenseman Klingberg then put the Stars up 2-0 shortly Pietrangelo has three goals in four games for an easy tap-in goal by Read at 4:13 of the John Klingberg after posting a hat-trick during the third period against the St. Louis Blues at Enterprise after, when he took a pass from Blake Comeau for St. Louis. third period. Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Monday, March 4, 2019 SPORT

GOLF FOCUS Fiji’s Singh could become PGA’s oldest American Kitayama champion at 56

AFP three titles last year. Miami “Playing the Champions Tour, you’ve got to make a lot of birdies. It’s all about mak- iji’s Vijay Singh moved ing a lot of putts,” Singh said. claims Oman Open into contention to be- “That brings, I guess, aggres- come the oldest cham- sion out of you and you go out pion in US PGA Tour there and you know you have to historyF by fi ring a fi ve-under make birdies.” 65 in Saturday’s third round of In 2016, Singh shared sixth the Honda Classic. at the Honda Classic and was The 56-year-old former second at the National, but he world number one made six has not cracked the top-10 in with late surge birdies against a lone bogey to a PGA event since, making 36 stand on six-under 204 after starts with 22 of them ending ‘The comeback in the third round definitely helped me going into the final round’ 54 holes at PGA National to in missed cuts, including both share second place, one stroke prior starts in 2019. Agencies behind US leader Wyndham Singh could end the PGA win Muscat Clark. drought of more than 3,800 “I played really well,” Singh days in his 621st career start. said. “I played like I know how. But in addition to fi ghting off urt Kitayama kept his I just let it go and the swing leader Clark, making only his cool as everyone else was a lot more freer. If I did 19th tour start in search of his on the leaderboard col- what I did today, this is how I fi rst PGA crown, Singh must lapsed to win the Oman used to play. I don’t know what contend with those alongside KOpen by one stroke yesterday. I found, but I’m going to see if him in second, fi rst-win hope- The American fi nished on a it’s still there tomorrow.” fuls Lee Kyoung-hoon of South seven-under par total of 281, one Three-time major champion Korea and American Keith stroke ahead of Spaniard Jorge Singh, who turned 56 on Feb- Mitchell, with US star Rickie Campillo, Frenchman Clem- ruary 22, would shatter the US Fowler another shot back on ent Sordet, German Maximilian PGA oldest winner mark set by 205. Kieff er and Paraguayan Fabrizio Sam Snead when he captured Singh won his fi rst PGA ti- Zanotti. the 1965 Greater Greensboro tle at the Buick Classic in June The top fi ve entered the event Open at 52 years, 10 months, 8 1993 -- six months before with a total of just three Europe- days. Clark was born. an tour victories between them – “I’m physically quite capable Singh ran off four birdies in one to Kitayama, who has never of doing it,” Singh said. “Men- six holes starting at the par-5 won on the US tour, two to Zan- tally, I’m going to go out there third, his longest holed putt in otti – and the pressure told in the and see how my mind works. If the run from 18 feet at the par- end. I just don’t let anything inter- 4 sixth. After closing the front “It feels pretty good to get the fere, I think I can do it.” nine with his lone bogey, Singh win,” said Kitayama against the Only six other players have sank a six-foot birdie putt at backdrop of the Indian Ocean. won PGA events in their 50s, the par-3 15th and a seven-foot “The comeback in the third the most recent of those being birdie putt at the par-5 18th. round defi nitely helped me go- Davis Love in 2015 at Greens- Clark’s best career PGA fi n- ing into the fi nal round and to get boro. Singh owns 34 US PGA ish was a share of 10th last week back in contention. With it being titles but has not won one at Puerto Rico that earned him a continuous round kind of helped since September 2008 at the a spot in this week’s fi eld. me cruise into the next one. Deutsche Bank Championship “I played in some fi nal “I was watching the leader- on his way to capturing the US groups as a junior and in col- board to know where I was, espe- playoff crown. lege,” Clark said. cially coming down the stretch Singh, now ranked 938th in “Obviously there’s more and when you take the lead you the world, has enjoyed suc- people and more pressure. I want to know where everyone cess on the 50-and-over PGA like the moment. It’s fun to else is and where in the course Champions circuit, taking play in that situation.” they are and see what holes you Kurt Kitayama poses with the Oman Open trophy in Muscat yesterday. have coming up and you set up yourself for that. “This win feels really good Australian Murray takes end-to-end New Zealand Open win because when I won my fi rst ti- tle I was playing really well so Rising Australian talent Zach Murray held After surrendering the lead with a bogey on Geary had his chance when two early birdies I felt it was coming, this week, his nerve to complete an end-to-end win the 11th he came back with an eagle at the gave him a share of the lead. however, I came here after three in the New Zealand Open at Queenstown par-five 13th and then two birdies to build a But he followed with four bogeys to drop missed cuts and I did not have yesterday. comfortable buff er before a bogey on the off the pace before a late eagle and two good weekends in Abu Dhabi and The 21-year-old rookie fired a final round 18th. birdies brought him back up the leader Dubai. So I had to grind through four-under 68 to finish on 21 under and two He is the first New Zealand Open winner to board. this, especially after the bunker strokes clear of fellow Australian Ashley lead after all four rounds since New Zealand Thailand’s Jazz Janewattananond had two shot, so it feels great to just grind Hall and New Zealand’s Josh Geary at the left-hander Bob Charles in 1954. eagles in his final round of eight under 64 to through all that.” Millbrook Resort course. “I was pretty nervous on the 18th tee. I set- move up to fourth place on 18 under. High winds and sand storms Murray, who started the final day a stroke up tled down for a while there,” Murray said. One stroke back were Australian Brad earlier in the tournament led to on Geary, only turned pro last November but “I’m glad she’s all done and dusted. It’s been a Kennedy and Japan’s Rikuya Hoshino a marathon fi nal day at the at Al showed he could handle the pressure. fantastic week.” and Ryuko Tokimatsu who were tied for fifth. Mouj course as Kitayama played 33 holes on Sunday. Vijay Singh plays his shot during the third round of the Honda In the three holes he had man- holes left. Kieff er and Sordet had pion, Joost Luiten, took a slice of LEADING SCORES 73-74-68-69, Scott Jamieson Classic golf tournament. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports aged before low light stopped the taken the lead after Zanotti, who 12 th place after a third round 68 281-Kurt Kitayama (USA) 66-74- (SCO) 67-76-66-75, Chris Paisley third round on Saturday, had four birdies and three dou- and fi nal round 72 saw him over- 71-70 282-Jorge Campillo (ESP) 71-72-69-72 the American had dropped six ble bogeys in the round, dropped come the disappointment of a 69-78-66-69, Maximilian Kiefer 286-Victor Dubuisson (FRA) TOKYO MARATHON shots to fall seven strokes off the two shots on 16. Then Sordet fi ve over par 77 in round two. He (GER) 69-70-71-72, Clement 72-70-72-72, David Horsey (ENG) lead. Over the last 13 holes of the three-putted for a bogey on 18 to was joined by Frenchman Victor Sordet (FRA)71-71-70-70, Fabrizio 68-76-70-72, Joost Luiten (NED) third round on Sunday, he was make Kieff er the sole leader. The Dubuisson, Ireland’s Gavin Zanotti (PAR) 71-69-68-74 69-77-68-72, Gavin Moynihan 69- seven under heading into the fi - German responded by bogeying Moniyhan, Denmark’s Jeff 283-Joachim B. Hansen (DEN) 73-71-73, Jordan Smith 71-76-70-69, Ethiopia’s Legese nal round three strokes behind 17. Kitayama then made birdies Winther and English duo David 70-69-71-73, Peter Hanson (SWE) Jeff Winther (DEN) 73-73-69-71 leader Zanotti. Kitayama play- at 16 and 17 to move into the lead Horsey and Jordan Smith, who 71-73-66-73, Thomas Pieters 287- Sean Crocker 72-72-70-73, ing in one of the last groups, was at the end. carded an impressive fi nal round (BEL) 68-75-69-71 Benjamin Hebert 70-72-71-74, T and Aga win still two shots back with three Meanwhile, last year’s cham- three under par 69. 284-Ashley Chester (ENG) Jaidee (THA) 71-72-75-69. AFP minutes down on his 2018 run. Tokyo “I’m very happy. Rain was FOCUS a bit annoying but I’m very happy,” Legese said, adding he thiopia completed a hoped to return for the Olym- double in the Tokyo pic Games marathon next year. Marathon yesterday as “I hope to run for the second Birhanu Legese won the straight year here,” he said. Park shoots stunning 64 to win men’sE race and Ruti Aga took In the women’s event Ethio- the women’s title in unfavour- pians swept the podium as able wet and windy conditions. Aga, 25, won in 2:20.40, 21 Legese, 24, who made an seconds ahead of Helen Tolao impressive marathon debut in with Shure Demise a further Women’s World Championship Dubai in January last year, won four seconds behind in third. AFP was out in front on her own – until Park in two hours, four minutes and Aga’s winning time was Singapore started her charge. 48 seconds – just 33 seconds more than two minutes down A double bogey seven on the 13th ended slower than his personal best on her personal best of 2:18:34 Ariya’s challenge as the tournament set- set in Dubai, but still the sec- set in Berlin last year. More ed hot world number two Park tled into a shootout between Park and Lee. ond-fastest ever run in Tokyo. than 37,000 took part in the Sung-hyun shot a stunning Park had edged in front and a sealed the Kenyans completed the po- 12th edition of the race which best-of-the-week round of victory in style with a nerveless 25-foot dium with Bedan Karoki com- winds through the streets of eight-under par round of 64 putt on the 16th for a birdie four. ing home second in 2hr 6min Tokyo, including Japanese sci- SundayR to claim a two-stroke victory at “She’s the kind of player who comes 48 seconds and last year’s entist Shinya Yamanaka who HSBC Women’s World Championship. around once in a lifetime,” said Park’s winner Dickson Chumba third won the 2012 Nobel prize for The 25-year-old South Korean reeled in Irish caddie of almost three years David in 2:08.44, more than three work in cell programming. early leader Australian Minjee Lee by the Jones of the double major winner and turn and four birdies on a fl awless back former world number one. nine saw her fi nish the $1.5 million tour- Ariya signed for a three-over 75 that left nament at 15 under-par with Lee back on her tied for eighth. She, 13-under after a three-under 69. too, joined the chorus of approval after “I’m really, really delighted and happy watching Park rip through the fi eld. with my play today, and I think today is “She’s such a great golfer; I’m not sur- one of the best days that I am playing so prised she shot eight-under because she’s far on the LPGA Tour,” said Park. “I didn’t the best to me, so just congrats to her. think I would win this fast and I’m really She’s great,” said Ariya. happy. I used to have a tough beginning (of Park Sung-hyun of South Korea poses with the winner’s trophy after the final round of the season) in the last years, and this fi rst the HSBC Women’s World Championship in Singapore yesterday. (AFP) FINAL LEADING SCORES win is so fast I think I will play really com- 273-Park Sung-hyun (KOR) 69-71-69-64 fortable the rest of my season.” her homeland who follow the her around “I am really surprised every time I see 275-Minjee Lee (AUS) 68-71-67-69 World number three Lee’s challenge fal- the world in packs, with many this week them as it’s such a big group but they re- 277-Ko Jin-young (KOR) 69-73-66-69, tered after a bogey fi ve on the 14th which sporting the message “Shut up and at- ally give me energy.” Azahara Munoz (ESP) 71-68-69-69 handed Park a one-stroke lead which she tack” on their shirts. The 22-year-old Lee had started the 278-Kim Hyo-joo (KOR) 70-71-67-70, Amy extended with a further birdie on the 16th. Not that Park needed any advice as she day a shot behind overnight leader and Olson (USA) 68-69-71-70 Tied for third on 11-under were South Ko- stayed eerily calm and demonstrated a world number one Ariya Jutanugarn but a 279-Ji Eun-hee (KOR) 71-71-67-70 rea’s Ko Jin-young and Spain’s Zahara steely nerve when the pressure was on. birdie on the fi rst gave her a share of the 280-Jodi Ewart Shadoff (ENG) 69-70-68- Munoz, who both had fi nal rounds of 69. “To see all these fans travel from so far lead. When Ariya found the water for a 73, Ariya Jutanugarn (THA) 68-71-66-75 Gold medallist Birhanu Legese of Ethiopia on the podium of Tokyo Park is wildly popular among fans in away to watch really helps me,” said Park. double bogey on the fourth, the Australian 282-Nelly Korda (USA) 74-70-69-69. Marathon 2019. (Reuters) Gulf Times Monday, March 4, 2019 7 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT FOOTBALL Gharafa, Duhail crowned champs Excitement mounts of Aspire League l Gharafa U-12 and of the best that we have seen at Al Duhail U-11 were Duhail. crowned champions Nine of my team are playing of the 2018-19 Aspire in Aspire’s feeder team, and we FootballA League that took place have a number of other very for the start of CHI last week on Aspire Academy’s talented players on the team. If outdoor football pitches. they keep their focus and work The annual celebration of hard I’m sure they’ll achieve some of Qatar’s fi nest young even more success in the fu- football talents saw teams from ture. I’m sure that they have Al Gharafa, Al Ahli, Al Sadd, Al the potential to play for Qatar’s Duhail, Al Arabi, Al Rayyan, Al national team one day.” Khor and Al Shamal competing The Aspire Football League AL SHAQAB 2019 in two age groups. provides talented youngsters In the U-11 age group, Al in Qatar with the chance to Festival atmosphere at Al Shaqab, with Entertainment Zone already open to the public on daily basis Duhail triumphed against Al gain additional playing time Saad 4-1 in the fi nal, while Al and to develop important skills Gharafa’s U-12s claimed the and build up their experience. title after a comprehensive 4-1 The League also provides As- win against Al Arabi. pire Academy with further Commenting on his team’s opportunities to judge the victory, Karim Mrabet, Al skills of talented young players Gharafa’s U-12 Coach, said: and select candidates for full “We’re proud of our victory scholarships. in this fantastic tournament. Over the past decade, the The standard of play was very Academy has produced some high, and the competition in of Qatar’s most prominent our group was very tough. footballers including the likes Our participation provided a of Al Moez Ali, Akram Afi f and great opportunity for the en- the majority of players that tri- tire squad to compete and I’m umphed in the 2019 AFC Asian really proud of how well they Cup. did. Our players were incred- Aspire Academy produces ibly focused and stuck to the rounded graduates that not game plan. This tournament only have the potential to suc- has defi nitely helped them to ceed in the sporting arena, but take an important step forward individuals with the poten- in terms of their development.” tial to become future leaders Meanwhile, Ossama Mousad in fi elds including medicine, Nour, Al Duhail’s U-11 Coach, engineering, social sciences said: “It was a fantastic tour- and more. This refl ects Aspire nament overall and we’re very Academy’s role to support the happy with our results. I think Qatar National Vision 2030 this group of youngsters is one and its objectives.

By Sports Reporter leg that ended on Saturday. place at Al Shaqab on Sunday, al-Emadi, and Salmen Sultan A There will also be a food court Doha It’s the fi rst time that these two and Edwina Tops, Australia’s M al-Suwaidi. and coff ee corners, while a latte world-class equestrian events are Olympic-level rider with several To ensure an ongoing festival art competition started yes- being held back-to-back in Qatar, records to her name. atmosphere of fun and enter- terday (Sunday March 3), with xcitement is mounting with this being the sixth edition of Leading Qatari athletes who tainment, Al Shaqab will contin- the winner to be crowned on in Qatar with only three CHI Al SHAQAB, which is spon- have been making their mark ue to keep the doors to its multi- Wednesday (March 6). days to go until the start sored by ExxonMobil. in the world of international purpose venue open to the public Several leading baristas from of CHI AL SHAQAB 2019, Several world-renowned ath- equestrian sport have also reg- during the days leading up to the Qatar will show their coff ee cre- theE signature event of Al Shaqab, letes and horses will be partici- istered to take part in CHI AL start of CHI AL SHAQAB 2019. ations, and the competition will member of Qatar Foundation. pating in this year’s event. They SHAQAB 2019. An exciting indoor and out- also include a latte art demon- The three-day equestrian include Britain’s Scott Brash, Proudly representing Qatar door Entertainment Zone of- stration by Jibbi Little, real name event, which Al Shaqab is organ- 2012 Olympic gold medallist and will be Sheikh Ali Bin Khalid al- fers an array of fun activities for Rawirat Techasitthanet, a latte ising, kicks off on Thursday, with winner of CHI AL SHAQAB 2017 Thani, who placed sixth in the children to enjoy, including pony art champion from Australia. the appetites of Qatar’s horse CSI 5* Grand Prix (2017), Ben 2016 Summer Olympics, Bassem rides, magic and circus shows, VIP and regular tickets to attend enthusiasts having been whetted Maher, also from Britain and the Mohammed, winner of the gaming areas, interactive video CHI AL SHAQAB 2019 from March by the Longines Global Cham- runner-up in the Global Cham- LGCT 2017 Grand Prix of Doha, and virtual reality games, and F1 7-9 are available on the Al Shaqab pionship Tour (LGCT) 2019 fi rst pions Tour Grand Prix that took Faleh Suwead al-Ajami, Khalid and horse simulators. website, www.alshaqab.com.

MANATEQ QATAR NATIONAL SPRINT Gharafa players celebrate after winning Aspire Football League U-12 title.

Duhail players pose with Aspire Football League U-11 trophy.

Lavreysen wins sprint gold

Netherlands youngster Harrie Lavreysen gave a solid perform- ance to overcome compatriot Jeff rey Hoogland and claim the men’s sprint gold at the world track championships yesterday. Lavreysen, 21, who along with Hoogland was part of the Dutch team that won the team sprint gold earlier, won both races in the sprint final for his second gold of the showpiece event. Local favourite Mateusz Rudyk defeated Australia’s defending champion Matthew Glaetzer in straight rides to take bronze and give Poland their only medal on the final day of the meet. Hong Kong’s Lee Wai Sze won the women’s keirin to add to her sprint gold, finishing ahead of Australia’s Kaarle McCulloch who took silver with Russia’s Daria Shmeleva settling for bronze. Lee had claimed silver in last year’s world championships at Apeldoorn but there was no stopping the 31-year-old in Prusz- Winners of the third round of the Manateq Qatar National Sprint pose with the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) president Abdulrahman al-Mannai, QMMF kow. Australia’s Alexandra Manly emerged triumphant in the general secretary Abdulrazzaq al-Kuwari, Losail Circuit Sports Club vice chairman and QMMF board member Khalid al-Rehmaihi and other off icials. women’s points race.

CRICKET MIC win opener in CDC Cricket Tournament By Sports Reporter one wicket each for CDC. wickets for Opera Brothers. off in 13 balls with two sixes. Ku- Doha In reply, CDC batsmen man- In reply Opera Brothers were nal scalped four wickets for three aged to score only 129 runs in 18.1 all out for 105 runs in 19 overs. runs and Shoaib two for 19 runs. overs. Arif and Shabbir scored Mosni scored 20 runs off 28 balls With the help of Kunal’s fi ne 48 IC defeated CDC by 32 and 20 runs respectively. Na- with two boundaries. Fasmy runs, Mitra Mandal achieved the 38 runs in the inaugu- sir took three wickets for 11 runs, contributed 18 runs off 16 balls target in 19.2 overs for the loss of ral match of the 30th Khalid and Zakaria took two with three boundaries. Samatha nine wickets. Kunal took 23 balls CDC Cricket Tourna- wickets each, Ehtisham, Arif and claimed three wickets and Doshan and hit with four sixes and four mentM 2019 at the Losail Cricket Atiq claimed one wicket each. two wickets for the winners. Mi- boundaries during his innings. Complex. Batting fi rst, MIC For his all- round performance, tra Mandal defeated Engineering Ajay also contributed 14 runs, scored 167 runs in the allotted 20 Atiq of MIC was adjusted man- Supplies by two wickets in the Shreejith and Siraj took two wick- overs for the loss of four wickets. of-the-match. third match of the day. Batting ets each. Business Development Atiq scored 50 runs off 25 deliver- In the other matches, Wellon Business Development Manager of CDC Sanjiv Jain inaugurates the 30th CDC Cricket Tournament 2019 fi rst, Engineering Supplies were Manager of CDC Sanjiv Jain and ies with fi ve sixes and a boundary. Cricket Club defeated 11 Opera in the presence of Qatar Veterans’ Cricket off icials. all out for 98 runs in 15.2 overs. General Manager of Millennium Rizwan also contributed 25 runs Brothers by 65 runs. Wellon 170 Rusty added 31 runs in 18 balls Travels Sai Manoj inaugurated the with a six and two boundaries. runs in allotted 20 overs for the was the top scorer with 44 runs sixes and three boundaries. 24 runs each. Nifraz took four with three sixes and a bound- tournament in the presence Qatar Omer, Fahad, Arif and Nasir took loss of seven wickets. Prasana off 18 balls with the help of three Nalinda and Sanjaya contributed wickets and Pradeep took three ary and Shemil’s 20 runs came Veterans Cricket offi cials.

Monday, March 4, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

TENNIS SPOTLIGHT Team 7 Stars are Red Bull Roger Federer: Neymar Jr’s Qatar champs From Mr Angry to Mr Perfect ‘I had a tough time getting my act together out on court’

(From left) Squash player Abdulla al-Tamimi, esports player Ahmad al-Meghessib, footballer Almoez Ali and World champion high jumper Mutaz Barshim showed their support for the contestants.

By Sports Reporter Barshim, squash player Abdulla to represent Qatar at the world Doha al-Tamimi and esports player fi nals this July. The lucky 7 Star Ahmad al-Meghessib — were will have to compete against joined by Qatar’s national foot- other fi nalists from 40 coun- eam 7 Stars are Qatar’s ball star Almoez Ali in showing tries for the opportunity to 2019 Red Bull Neymar support for the contestants. play against the phenomenal Jr’s Five champions. The highly-anticipated con- PSG striker Neymar Jr. and his Amateur footballers test featured almost 200 teams squad. Tand fans from all around Qatar during four qualifi er rounds, The Red Bull Neymar Jr’s Five gathered at Al Bidda Park to set- leading up to the national fi nals. tournament continues to fi nd tle the score on Friday. The fi ve- The top 16 teams then went success as a global signature a-side football tournament has head-to-head following a series, hosted by the Instituto set a challenge to reimagine skill knockout format. After putting Projeto Neymar Jr. and teamwork on the pitch. up an impressive run through The Neymar Jr’s Five was The national fi nals also fea- the tournament brackets, team brought together in partnership tured a gathering of some of 7 Star outplayed their oppo- with Vodafone Qatar, Regency Qatar’s most prominent ath- nents to claim the title and their Group Holding, I LOVE QATAR, letes. Red Bull athletes — World golden ticket to Brazil. Aspire Zone, QSports and Xtork champion high jumper Mutaz Team 7 Star will fl y to Brazil Platforms.

AFP started playing tennis at eight. Paris He won his fi rst ATP title in Milan in 2001 and has racked up trophies every year since with the rom racquet-smashing exception of 2016 when he shut enfant terrible with a bad down his season after a semi- Team 7 Stars will represent Qatar at the world finals in Brazil this July. attitude and ill-advised fi nal loss at Wimbledon. ponytail to universally That extended rest, to recover respectedF sporting role model from a knee injury, led to his 2017 FOCUS and icon, Roger Federer has come renaissance with a refreshed Fe- a long, long way. derer winning his 18th major at Eighteen years after winning the Australian Open. his fi rst title in Milan by beating A record eighth Wimbledon in long-forgotten Frenchman Julien 2017 was his 19th Slam title with Kyrgios beats Zverev to Boutter, Federer on Saturday be- his 20th and most recent coming came just the second man after back in Melbourne last year. Jimmy Connors to win 100 career It was after the fi rst of his win Acapulco ATP crown singles crowns. six Australian Opens in 2004 Amongst that collection are 20 that Federer claimed the world Grand Slams, 27 Masters and six number one ranking for the fi rst AFP World Tour Finals. time. In his career, he has been Acapulco, Mexico It’s a success story which has at the top of the pile for a total of brought him $120mn in prize 310 weeks. money alone. Federer was also a Davis Cup ustralian Nick Kyr- Off court, he is the father of winner in 2014 and a 2008 Olym- gios capped a scintil- two sets of twins, Myla Rose and pic doubles gold medallist with lating run in Acapulco Charlene Riva and Leo and Lenny close friend Stan Wawrinka. with a 6-3, 6-4 vic- with wife Mirka, a former player With his 38th birthday in Au- toryA over world number three he met at the 2000 Olympics in gust this year, Federer has always Alexander Zverev Saturday to Sydney. insisted he has never set a date claim his fi rst ATP title in more But his career and life wasn’t Switzerland’s Roger Federer poses with his 100th title trophy. (Reuters) for retiring. than a year. always so settled. As a talented “It’s just discussions I always Kyrgios defeated three top- young player, Federer’s hair- Sampras at Wimbledon in 2001. From that point on, the mul- have with my wife about the 10 players on the way to the ti- trigger temper once threatened However, the following year, ti-lingual Federer committed family, about my kids, is every- tle, saving three match points to stunt his undoubted ability. he was knocked out in the fi rst himself to winning in style, with body happy on tour, are we happy in a second-round victory over “I had a tough time getting my round. grace and not engulfed by his in- to pack up and go on tour for fi ve, second-ranked Rafael Nadal — act together out on court, trying It took a personal tragedy for ner demons. six, seven weeks. Are we willing owner of 17 Grand Slam titles — to behave properly. For me that Federer to press the reset button. to do that?,” he said after winning and beating No. 9 John Isner in was a big deal,” he once admitted. Just when he turned 21, his GREAT RIVALS Wimbledon in 2017. the semis. Federer announced himself in coach and close friend from his Born on August 8, 1981 in Basel, “For the time being, it seems He also beat three-time the big time when he famously formative years Peter Carter was to Swiss father Robert and South like absolutely no problem, Grand Slam winner Stan defeated childhood hero Pete killed in a car crash in South Africa. African mother Lynette, Federer which is wonderful.” Wawrinka in the quarter-fi nals of a drama-fi lled week that saw him shake off hostile crowds, Who said what illness, injuries and moments of malaise — not to mention “Welcome to the ‘Triple to lock the door. She remember your words Rocket.” a post-match scolding from Digit’ tournament victory screamed loudly..... also when you came to the inau- — Rod Laver Nadal. the German to smash his rac- American Sofi a Kenin 2-6, 6-3, club @rogerfederer — I’ve congrats to @rogerfederer guration of the Academy in Aussie legend His win over Zverev was a re- quet in frustration. 7-5. been a bit lonely — glad to for winning 100 tennis 2017 and you were injured: markably straightforward aff air. Kyrgios broke again to open World number 65 Wang, have the company.” tournaments.” “Rafa, You’ve done it a mn “I just chucked in a lot of the second set, but double- playing in her fi rst WTA singles — Jimmy Connors — Andy Roddick times, so I can be inspired “THE GREATEST CHAM- drop shots, tried to keep him faulted on break point in the fi nal, outlasted the 35th-ranked the only other man to win 100 who lost three Wimbledon finals by the way you made it PION EVER, @rogerfederer! guessing, that’s all you can do,” next game. American to claim her break- titles, ending his career on 109 to Federer look so easy when you Congrats to the ultimate said Kyrgios, a former world He broke Zverev again in the through title after two hours came back. You came back GOAT! What an incredible number 13 who has slipped to fi fth game and held with con- and 10 minutes. to the world’s top 10, top achievement! #RF100.” 72nd in the world. fi dence the rest of the way to The 24-year-old from Nan- “Just watched @rogerfed- “Congratulations Roger, fi ve, even world No. 1. That’s — Nicolas Kiefer “He’s super-fi t, so he’s go- capture his fi rst title since Bris- jing seized a 2-1 lead in the fi nal erer win his 100th title and please play forever.” something that I’m going Former German tour player ing to grind you down so I tried bane in January of 2018. set by taking advantage of her my daughter asked ‘how — Shelby Rogers to be thinking about when to keep the points short when While Kyrgios had come to third break-point chance in the many did you win?’ ‘10’ I WTA player I come back to the tour in I could,” added Kyrgios, who embrace the role of tournament game. responded proudly. “How January. “Huge congrats to my mate, spent more than nine hours on villain in which pro-Nadal fans Wang held on her fi rst ace come you only won 10? “Today you have won your the awesome @rogerfed- court over his four prior match- had cast him, Zverev said fans of the match for a 3-1 lead, but That’s like none.” Thanks “Had a great time in Dubai, 100° ??! Amazing! Congrat- erer.” es but needed just an hour and a should appreciate what they surrendered a break on her Roger, for making me look won tight matches against ulations!” — Hugh Jackman half to dispatch Zverev. had seen from him. fourth double fault to allow bad in front of my kids. top players and in the end Hollywood star “You know, I lack on the “Really, he’s the one who de- Kenin to equalise at 3-3. Congrats.” lost to one of the greatest — Rafael Nadal Academy physical side a little bit,” Kyr- serves to win it,” Zverev said. After Wang held at love to — James Blake ever. But hey, at least I am a gios admitted with a smile. “He’s the real champion this 5-5, she reeled off the last four Former US tour player part of the history #RF100.” “Heartiest congratulations “Congrats to the great @ “But today I served well and just week,” and the fans, fi nally won points of the 11th game to break — Borna Coric @rogerfederer Winning rogerfederer...100 titles! in- played the clutch points pretty over, cheered. Kenin and then held serve for defeated in the Dubai semi- 100 titles during your credible. And every single well.” the triumph. “On a plane and a guy finals by Federer unbelievable career is a on of them, won with class Indeed it was Zverev whose WANG BREAKTHROUGH The 20-year-old American opened the door to the truly mighty achievement. and grace. #RESPECT.” nerves were frayed after Kyrgios In women’s action China’s was denied her second career bathroom. There was a I expect more to come this — Rennae Stubbs broke him at love in the fourth Wang Yafan rallied from a set WTA title and second crown of lady in there who forgot “Hi @rogerfederer, we still year and beyond! #RF100 Former player-turned-pundit game of the opening set then and a break down to capture the year after taking her fi rst at held for a 4-1 lead, prompting her fi rst WTA title, defeating Hobart in January.