SPORT
Monday 16 October 2017
PAGE | 31 PAGE | 32-33 PAGE | 36 Dovizioso wins Mourinho hails TimelessTi Federer Japan thriller to cut ‘magical’ prevails Marquez’s points leadad Paris Saint-Germainn over Nadal T abata strikes on return as 4-star Al Rayyan hammer Al Markhiya
Al Rayyan’s star striker Rodrigo Tabata (second right) handles the ball during their QNB Stars League match against Al Markhiya at Al Sadd Stadium yesterday. Pictures: Abdul Basit / The Peninsula
Rizwan Rehmat GOALS Al Sadd’s Morteza Mohammad scores their first goal The Peninsula against Qatar SC during their QNB Stars League AL RAYYAN: match played at Al Sadd Stadium yesterday. ormer champions Al Rayyan yesterday wel- Abderrazak Hamdallah: 2’ comed back star striker Mahmoud Attiya (OG): 26’ Rodrigo Tabata by crush- ing bottom-placed Al Rodrigo Tabata: 71’ FMarkhiya 4-1 in their round-four Sebastian Soria: 79’ clash of the QNB Stars League in what turned out to be a lop-sided
affair. AL MARKHIYA: Playing under lights at Jassim Bin Kwame Karikari: 80’ Hamad Stadium, Al Rayyan - who had been missing Tabata for the start of the season following an injury and subsequent surgery - saw the Bra- QSL: YESTERDAY’S RESULTS zilian-born striker score in the Al Rayyan beat Al Markhiya 4-1 second half.
Coached by Michael Laudrup, Al Al Sadd beat Qatar SC 3-1 Rayyan picked up easy points after Al Duhail beat Al Ahli 6-1 goals by Abderrazak Hamdallah (2), Mahmoud Attiya (own goal, 26), Tabata (71) and Sebastian Soria (79). card for debating the linesman’s call Al Markhiya striker Kwame to allow the goal to stand in favour Amponsah Karikari reduced the def- of Al Rayyan. icit in the 80th minute. In the 36th minute, Al Rayyan’s With star striker Tabata on the rising U-23 star Ali charged into the bench at the start of the game, Al Al Markhiya box but his shot from Rayyan - coming off a 5-3 loss inside the box hit the crossbar and against Al Duhail in round 3 - wasted the ball landed away from the El Arabi sparkles in big Al Duhail win little time in scoring the opening goal. attacking Al Rayyan strikers. Hamedallah produced a superbly Some 20 minutes into the sec- taken direct freekick, hitting the Al ond half, Soria produced a The Peninsula but his clip from inside the Al Duhail’s feared striker Nam Nazart reduced the deficit Markhiya net in just the second snap-header on a long cross but his Ahli box sailed past the goal- Tae-hee as the South Korean for Al Ahli with a spectacular minute of the match. It was Al close-range deflection inside the box ouseef El Arabi struck post without causing any striker took aim for the Al Ahli shot in the 46th minute but Al Rayyan striker’s third goal of the was pouched by Al Markhiya four times as football damage. goalmouth. Duhail raced to a 3-1 lead season. goalkeeper. Ygiants Al Duhail yester- In the 11th minute, Al Four minutes later, Al when El Arabi found the net In the 9th minute, Al Rayyan A couple of minutes later, Ham- day beat Al Ahli 6-1 following Duhail’s Luiz Martin Junior Duhail went 1-0 up as Arabi six minutes later. added a bit of bite into their attacks dallah charged into the Al Markhiya a fast-paced contest at Abdul- fired a bullet from the edge of produced the near-perfect El Arabi completed his hat- this time through Mohammed Ali box but his short was swiftly blocked lah Bin Khalifa Stadium. the Al Ahli box but his power- snap-header off an indirect trick in the 64th when he who produced a bullet from the edge by Khuroob. El Arabi (25, 55, 64 penalty ful shot was punched away by corner kick cross by Tae-hee. converted a penalty kick. of the Al Markhiya box but his shot Tabata, who was brought in at and 68), Youseef Msakni (39) goalkeeper Naim Husein. It was El Arabi’s 5th goal of the El Arabi headed one home was palmed away by goalkeeper the start of the second half, com- and Nam Tae-Hee (90’+1) Eight minutes later Martin new season. from close range following a Mohammad Khuroob. pleted Al Rayyan’s dominant play by scored the goals as Al Duhail Junior attempted a similar shot With the game picking up near-perfect cross from In the 26th minute, Al Rayyan scoring his team’s third goal in the posted their fourth win of the - this time with his right foot - incredible pace, referee pulled Tae-hee. jumped to a 2-0 lead thanks to a run 71st minute after a cross from season. Christian Nazart (47) but the ball once again up Al Ahli stalwart Abdullah Elsewhere, at Al Sadd Sta- of play that favoured the boys in red. Hamdallah. scored for Al Ahli. narrowly missed the with a yellow card for bring- dium, hosts overcame Qatar SC Veteran striker Soria - captain for Eight minutes later, Tabata spot- With popular coach Djamel goalpost. ing down Martin Junior with a by 3-1. the day - tried to control an aerial ted Soria in the Al Markhiya box and Belmadi giving instructions Al Ahli defenders Abdullah reckless tackle in the 26th Morteza Mohammad (24’) cross inside the Al Markhiya box but the tall striker clipped the ball into the from the stands, Al Duhail Taleb and Mashek Mubarak minute. and Baghdad Bounedjah (62’) the ball got knocked into the net by top of the net for Al Rayyan’s 4th goal. kicked off the proceedings with held fort in admirable fashion Six minutes from the first and Hassan Al Haydos (86’) Mahmoud Attiya resulting in an own Karikari tapped the ball into the pace and fire in their attacks. for the first 20 minutes of the half whistle, Al Duhail jumped scored for Al Sadd while goal. net from close range after Al Rayyan In the 6th minute at Abdul- game. In the 20th minute, the to a 2-0 lead with Mskani fir- Mohamed Tayebi (59’) was the Al Markhiya’s Mohammed goalkeeper failed to grab the ball in lah Bin Khalifa Stadium, captain duo combined well to thwart ing a 29-metre bullet for his sole scorer for visiting Qatar Shaban Barakat received a yellow the 80th minute. Msakni hoodwinked his marker a dangerous move by Al side’s second goal. SC. 30 SPORT MONDAY 16 OCTOBER 2017 Young riders, slick show A young rider competes during the opening round of Hathab at Al Shaqab’s Indoor Arena on Saturday. light up Hathab opener
Rizwan Rehmat championship growing in The Peninsula weeks and months to come. This is a sport that is close to rganisers of the Everything went smoothly. our culture of horse riding,” Al Hathab show- The participation particularly Rumaihi said. jumping series are was very impressive from “This was an international thrilled with the the young riders. I am sure in event for the young riders, for outcome of the the next round - to be held the organising team and even O new QR1m series, saying in about two weeks’ time - the judges. Like I said the Qatar’s riding landscape looks we will see more young enthusiasm of participation promising. entries coming in: Olympian was just great. Just by announc- A total of six competitions Ali Al Rumaihi ing the details of this new series were held over the weekend at we have attracted the inter- Al Shaqab’s Indoor Arena ested riders. Everyone involved where riders as young as 12 with jumping and dressage will years old regaled fans with come in and compete in the their routines watched by terms of competition and other people seeking information coming rounds,” he said. showjumping fans from across relevant matters,” he said. from us during these two days When asked about his Rio the country. “You will know that you of competition,” Al Rumaihi Games show, Al Rumaihi said: Hamad Nasser Al Qadi, can’t force your horses to go said. “It was fantastic experience. It astride SIEC Lonnie, grabbed full throttle so early in the sea- “They wanted to know was my first time competing the top spot in the feature com- son. The riders did really well, more about the series and how with the best at the Games. As petition of the opening round keeping the right pace while they could have their children a team we did really good. In of the 12-leg series on competing. The course was present in competitions. the individual run, I ended in Saturday. well laid out. Al Shaqab is also “I must say I did not expect the 16th spot. Small faults cost “Everything went smoothly. setting things up for the new such an overwhelming us but overall it was just amaz- The participation particularly season,” Al Rumaihi explained response from fans in Qatar. ing being there.” was very impressive from the in a chat with The Peninsula. The showjumping fans want He added: “Being at the young riders. They were not Al Rumaihi, a member of more from us. We will be hav- Games is a target for any rider that many but what pleased us Qatar’s equestrian squad that ing dressage competitions in in the world. The difficult thing (the organisers) that they put featured at the Rio Olympic the next rounds and now we was to qualify for the Games. out great routines,” Ali Al Games last year, said he expects expect more people coming in. That was more tough actually. Rumaihi, Executive Director of more riders queuing up for “Now we will get ready for When you reach the Games, the event, said. entry. the Champions of Champions you know what to do and how “This is exactly what we “I am sure in the next round tour next week and that will be to go about your competition. were thinking about when we - to be held in about two weeks’ followed by the second round I will try to continue but it is set plans for the new series. I time - we will see more young of competition in the Hathab difficult (smiles). Officially I think we had 12 young riders entries coming in. I say that series. haven’t ridden for a long time and they got a great outing in because there were so many “I can see this but I can resume anytime.”
Losail Circuit ready for another vibrant season
The Peninsula a kids’ trainer for guidance. Also, bike Losail International Circuit will host rentals are available from Qatar the finale of the WorldSBK from osail Circuit Sports Club kicks off Cyclists from 5:00pm to 7:00pm with November 2 to 4 under the floodlights tomorrow with another exciting a cost of QR35 for the first hour and of the track. Lseason of international and QR40 for the second hour. The grandstand ticket is QR100 for national championships, track days For those wanting an adrenaline the 3-day event with free access to the and training days. rush and test their bike or cars at the Paddock and all spectators can win the In partnership with Qatar Sports track, the Open Track Days are sched- possibility to access the Grid and to the For All Federation and Qatar Cyclists, uled October 19 and 20. October 19, Pit Wall Canopy for WorldSBK races. Losail Circuit Sports Club has reopened there will be a Night Car Track day Following the great success of last again the track for ladies only train- with the track open from 8:00pm to year, the 2017 Motul FIM Superbike ing days on Tuesdays and training days 11:00pm. It will be a turn of the bikes World Championship Prize Giving Show for all public every on Wednesdays. to hit the track, the following day from will be again at the Paddock after the Both training days will start at 5:00pm 2:30pm until 7:00pm. Podium Ceremony of the WorldSBK until 8:30pm and you can go for walk, October will end up with the prep- Race 2 and the first 2,000 guests with run, cycle or even go rollerblading. arations of another exciting round of grandstand ticket will have the honour On ladies only training days, for World Superbike Championship at to share this important moment with the kids, there will be a group ride with Losail. For the fourth year in a row, the championship winners.
ayayayayayayayMacInture wins QGL tourney Nicholas clinches top honour
The Peninsula Riders pose on the podium after the first bronze medal in the category B. stage of Air Maroc League last weekend Saleh Al Muhannadi from avid Nicholas clinched at Losail Technical Zone. Losail Team clinched the first win in category A at the position and finished at 31:48.4, Dfirst stage of Air Maroc Ronald Balorio from PCCQ was League, organised by Qatar second and Zaid Hamza from Cycling & Triathlon Federation Qatar national junior team was (QCTF) last weekend at Losail third and finished with a time Technical Zone. of 32:24.9 in the third category Individual Time Trial was (C). the first race of the series of 10 In women category A, Julie sponsored by Royal Air Maroc. Melville from #AndyBrownPro- A total of 117 riders participated Racing won gold medal and in the competition of 18.9 kms, finished with a time of 32:24.5. which kicked off at 7am. Isora Sosa Caballero from One lap distance was 9.45 TriClub Doha took second place km, every rider was supposed and Jennifer Gibbons from to finish two laps in Indiviaual #AndyBrownProRacing grabbed Time Trial race. third position. Golfers pose after the conclusion of Qatar Golf Lovers Ay The race had three catego- Kathrine Gomez from Tri- (QGL) tourney held last weekend at the Doha Golf Club. Ay ries for men (A, B and C) and two Club Doha finished in 37:03.6 Don MacInture emerged victorious in the event which for women (A and B). and won gold medal while Car- Ay. Pic: Qassim / The Peninsula → See also page 26 was organised by QGL. Akbar Boghani was declared Nicholas finished with a mel Lord representing runner-up in the tournament which saw as many as 40 time of 27:25.2 and secured the took second place with silver 30:52.3 and won gold medal, #AndyBrownProRacing took golfers in action. Jamie Davis won the ‘longest drive’ first place with gold medal and medal. Tom Whateley from Andrew Tangonan from Pinoy second position and silver award while Prakash Iyer won the ‘closest to rope’ trophy. Velostar finished at third Roadies Qatar took second posi- medal. Helena Corby was third award. Whereas, Jonathan Parker position. tion and silver medal whereas, with bronze medal in the women from Team Bottrill HSS Hire, Jaco Anderson finished in Mashel Al Naimi was third with category B. MONDAY 16 OCTOBER 2017 SPORT 31
Japanese Dovizioso wins Japan thriller Grand Prix Results
eading results from the Japanese Grand Prix at to cut Marquez’s points lead LMotegi on Sunday: MotoGP (24 laps) 1. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/ Motegi Ducati) 47 minutes, 14.236 sec- AFP One big rival! onds 2. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) Fighting Marc is at 0.249, 3. Danilo Petrucci (ITA/ always a big tension. Ducati) 10.557, 4. Andrea Iannone ucati’s Andrea Marc was right (ITA/Suzuki) 18.845, 5. Alex Rins Dovizioso stunned behind me but I (ESP/Suzuki) 22.982, 6. Jorge world champion Lorenzo (ESP/Ducati) 24.464, 7. closed the door and Marc Marquez on Aleix Espargaro (ESP/Aprilia) made it difficult for the final lap to win 28.010, 8. Johann Zarco (FRA/ D a rain-soaked Japanese Grand him to overtake me, Yamaha) 29.475, 9. Maverick Prix and blow the MotoGP title says Andrea Vinales (ESP/Yamaha) 36.575, 10. race wide open yesterday. Dovizioso Loris Bas (FRA/Ducati) 48.506 The Italian pipped Mar- quez’s Honda by 0.25 seconds Moto2 (15 laps) in a classic dogfight at Motegi behind me but I closed the door 1. Alex Marquez (ESP/Kalex) to record his fifth victory of the and made it very difficult for 32:08.901, 2. Xavi Vierge (ESP/ season, cutting the Spaniard’s him to overtake me. Fighting Tech3) at 1.465, 3. Hafizh Syahrin championship lead to 11 points Marc is always big tension,” he (MAL/Kalex) 3.134, 4. Francesco with three races left. added. “But this was important Bagnaia (ITA/Kalex) 5.415, 5. Mat- Dovizioso made a blister- for the championship. I know tia Pasini (ITA/Kalex) 5.618, 6. ing start from ninth on the grid it will be very difficult to win Takaaki Nakagami (JPN/Kalex) as he joined Marquez in chas- the title but we will try right to 6.163, 7. Miguel Oliveira (POR/ ing down early leader Danilo the end.” KTM) 7.597, 8. Franco Morbidelli Petrucci. Marquez, chasing a fourth (ITA/Kalex) 11.400, 9. Dominique The title rivals sped past world title in five years, paid Aegerter (SUI/Suter) 11.572, 10. Petrucci’s Ducati midway tribute to the winner. Lorenzo Baldassarri (ITA/Kalex) through the race before going “It was amazing today, I 14.310 wheel-to-wheel in a nail-bit- enjoyed the battle,” said the ing game of cat and mouse as Spaniard. “The two guys that Moto3 (13 laps) rain made track conditions are fighting for the champion- 1. Romano Fenati (ITA/Honda) treacherous. ship fighting until the last 29:22.278, 2. Niccolo Antonelli Twice Dovizioso roared corner.” “I made a few mistakes (ITA/KTM) at 4.146, 3. Marco Bez- past Marquez -- and twice Mar- -- Motegi is one of the circuits zechi (ITA/Mahindra) 5.013, 4. quez produced daring lunges where I have struggled a lot for Tatsuki Suzuki (JPN/Honda) 8.767, to recapture the lead, the triple some years,” added Marquez, 5. Aron Canet (ESP/Honda) 12.827, world champion entering the already looking ahead to next 6. Philipp Ottl (GER/KTM) 14.865, penultimate lap in front. week’s race in Australia. 7. Fabio Di Giannantonio (ITA/ But just when it looked as “I knew the Ducati was Honda) 15.482, 8. Jakub Kornfeil though Marquez would hang on faster on the back straight, even (CZE/Peugeot) 15.625, 9. Bo Bend- for his third successive victory, in the braking point. At this cir- sneyder (NED/KTM) 15.947, 10. the Spaniard suffered a last-lap cuit I knew he would be very, John McPhee (GBR/Honda) 16.216 wobble, allowing Dovizioso to very strong. But now we go to pounce for the race-winning other tracks that I normally pass at turn 11. enjoy more.” As Dovizioso flashed by to Petrucci finished third, snatch a breathtaking win, it ahead of Suzuki’s Andrea Ian- triggered wild celebrations in none and Alex Rins with former the Ducati garage. champion Jorge Lorenzo’s Ducati rider Andrea “I knew I had a last chance Ducati sixth and Aleix Espar- Dovizioso of Italy at the back straight, turn 11, but garo seventh on his Aprilia. leads Honda rider he was pushing and the tyres French rookie Johann Zarco Marc Marquez of were finished,” said Dovizioso. finished back in eighth for Spain during the “I did a perfect corner at Yamaha after a dismal start MotoGP Japanese turn 10 and he made a mistake from pole, while Maverick Grand Prix at Twin so I was able to catch him.” Vinales now trails Marquez by Ring Motegi circuit Marquez still kept coming a daunting 41 points after fin- but Dovizioso kept his cool to ishing ninth and realistically in Motegi, Tochigi take the chequered flag, sug- looks out of it. prefecture yesterday. gesting he could take the title Seven-time champion Val- race down to the wire. entino Rossi, who is continuing “I knew that in the last two his return from a double leg frac- corners anything could hap- ture, dumped his Yamaha in the pen,” said the Italian. “Marc was gravel on lap six, ending his race. Boxing: Santa Cruz stops Avalos to keep crown
Los Angeles “Now we’re ready for Mares.” performed really well. No rust at AFP The WBA championship all. I felt fast. I felt great.” rematch was contingent upon Meanwhile, it was both winning Saturday and announced yesterday that Aus- exico’s Leo Santa Cruz Mares did his part by taking a tralia’s Jeff Horn will defend his retained his World Box- unanimous decision over fellow WBO welterweight title against Ming Association Mexican Andres Gutierrez. England’s Gary Corcoran in featherweight title on Saturday “I’m ready for that rematch,” December before a potential night by stopping American Chris Mares said. “Let’s bring it on. blockbuster bout with UFC star Avalos, setting up a title rematch March or April, I’m ready for it.” Conor McGregor. next year with former world Santa Cruz, 29, was impres- Horn stunned Manny Pac- champion Abner Mares. sive in his first fight after quiao in a unanimous 12-round Santa Cruz unleashed a pun- avenging his only loss in Janu- points decision in July, with the ishing flurry of powerful punches ary by downing Britain’s Carl Filipino great pulling out of a to the head of Avalos that set the Frampton to reclaim the WBA planned rematch later this year. stage for the fight being stopped throne. Avalos was stopped by This has opened the door to by referee Thomas Taylor after Frampton in 2015 in his only Corcoran, with the bout set for 94 seconds of the eighth round. prior world title fight. December 13 in Brisbane as part “I did what I could. I tried to Mares, 31, won a fight of a two-fight deal inked with the give a great show,” Santa Cruz stopped after 10 rounds due to Queensland state government, said. “I got him with good shots. an accidental clash of heads that the Brisbane Courier-Mail said. Terrell Gausha and Erislandy Lara exchange I said sooner or later they are opened a bloody gash over Guti- “Corcoran is 26, so he’s three going to stop it.” errez’s left eye. years younger than me -- he’s punches during their WBA Junior Dominating from start to fin- Mares, in only his second very fit, strong and hungry,” Middleweight Title bout at Barclays Center ish, Santa Cruz improved to bout since losing to Santa Cruz Horn told the newspaper. of Brooklyn in New York City. 34-1-1 with his 19th victory inside more than two years ago, “He’s a dangerous guy. I the distance. Avalos fell to 27-6. improved to 31-2 with one drawn know what it’s like to be a deter- Known as “Hell Raiser”, Cor- country, I can win a world title,” and said afterwards he was open Santa Cruz and Mares had after his 16th triumph inside the mined underdog just like he is coran has 17 wins and one defeat Corcoran said. to boxing again, potentially plac- already agreed to terms for a distance. going into this fight. to Horn’s 17 wins and one draw. If he wins, Horn then hopes ing him on a collision course with rematch early next year for the Gutierrez fell to 35-2 with “This is his golden opportu- He told World Boxing News to fight mixed martial arts cham- his Ultimate Fighting Champi- same 126-pound division crown one draw after two judges scored nity to do what I did against earlier this month he was keen pion McGregor, who made his onship paymasters. Santa Cruz won over Mares by the fight 99-91 for Mares and the Pacquiao but there are millions to face Horn in the biggest fight boxing debut in a money-spin- Promoter Dean Lonergan majority decision in 2015. other had it a perfect 100-90. of dollars on offer for me with of his career. ning defeat to Floyd Mayweather told state broadcaster ABC he “Let’s get it on with Mares in “I thought it was a great per- big fights in 2018 so I can’t let this “Horn is there to beat, I can in Las Vegas in August. was working on a second event the beginning of the year, as soon formance,” Mares said. “After guy come to my home town and beat him. I’ve sparred with some Charismatic Irishman in Brisbane before June 30 next as possible,” Santa Cruz said. close to a year layoff, I felt like I wreck all my good work.” world class fighters in this McGregor performed creditably year. 32 SPORT MONDAY 16 OCTOBER 2017 MONDAY 16 OCTOBER 2017 SPORT 33
Paris Saint-Germain’s Belgian FIFA grants ex- defender Thomas Meunier Wenger believes ‘scandalous’ Aussies brace (centre) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring a tra day for New goal against Dijon (DFCO) for another during their French L1 football penalty reason behind 2-1 loss match at the Gaston Gerard Stadium in Dijon, central World Cup Zealand vs France on Saturday. Watford “We were unlucky with the pen- denying that Watford have made a AFP alty it was a bit ridiculous. Then we fine start under new manager Silva, panicked. And we stand there with apart from a 6-0 home loss to Man- cliffhanger Peru play-off rsene Wenger believes a defeat. chester City last month. “scandalous” penalty was the “We dropped the level a bit in “It’s not bad but it means noth- Melbourne Amain reason why his Arsenal the second half. We lost our fluency ing now,” Deeney said. “We’re just Reuters Wellington side ended up losing 2-1 at Watford a little. We had the chances to score taking it game by game. I believe AFP on Saturday. two and three.” we’re building something really ustralia will brace for another The result lifted Marco Silva’s Richarlison could be handed a good. World Cup cliffhanger in Syd- ew Zealand and Peru’s intercontinental Hornets into fourth place in the Pre- two-match ban if found guilty of “With late goals it shows we Aney, with FIFA confirming the World Cup play-off will begin in Welling- mier League on a day when diving, a decision that would be have belief and how fit we are. All second leg of the Socceroos’ intercon- Nton on November 11 with an extended Manchester United, Liverpool and made by a three-man panel con- the lads coming in are making the tinental play-off against Honduras will four-day break before the return match in Lima, Chelsea also all dropped points. sisting of a former match official, a impact.” be played at the city’s Olympic Sta- according to dates released yesterday. Arsenal led at half-time through former manager and an ex-player, Silva, who almost kept Hull City dium on November 15. The two-legged play-off has been extended a rare goal from Per Mertesacker, and would have to be unanimous. up last season on the back of strong Australia defeated Syria 2-1 in a by a day to take into account the huge distance the Germany defender, but the Former Premier League referee home form, revealed he had been nail-biting second leg of their Asia between the two countries. game changed in the second half Graham Poll certainly felt there was critical of his players at playoff last week at the same venue, The delayed second leg means the playoff when Mesut Ozil failed to convert a case to answer. “It is as clear an half-time. keeping their hopes of a fourth con- between the Oceania champions and the fifth a simple chance to double the lead. example of diving as you can see,” “It was a very good second secutive World Cup appearance alive. placed team from South America will determine Within a minute Hector Bellerin he said. “I wouldn’t blame Swar- half,” he said. “I didn’t like the first. Australia need to overcome Hon- the 32nd and final qualifier for next year’s World was adjudged to have impeded brick. I would blame Richarlison for We were playing a very good team duras, who booked their place in the Cup in Russia. Richarlison at the other end for a diving and deceiving.” and we played scared and without intercontinental playoff by finishing With time differences taken into account, the penalty that the Arsenal manager The penalty was converted by confidence. fourth in the North, Central American two legs will be played almost five days apart. was convinced was the result of a Troy Deeney, a Watford substitute, “We spoke at half-time and I and Caribbean qualifying, to secure a The first match will be played in the New Zea- dive to deceive referee Neil and set the platform for midfielder told them not to be shy. The second berth in the finals in Russia next year. land capital Wellington with the return fixture in Swarbrick. Tom Cleverley to win the game deep half we played very well and with The first leg of the playoff will be Lima. Measures are in place this sea- into added time. our attitude we could change the in Honduras on November 10 but the New Zealand Football Chief Executive Andy son for the authorities to punish Deeney was convinced Swar- result.” time and venue have yet to be con- Martin said preparations can begin in earnest now simulation retrospectively and it will brick had got the controversial “Massive credit has to go to the firmed, Football Federation Australia that dates have been confirmed. be interesting to see if action is taken penalty call correct. “I know Hec- manager,” Deeney added. “It’s said in a media release yesterday. “We have been waiting for this confirmation against the Brazilian. tor, he’s a good lad but that’s a called a half-time team-talk but that Prior to joining the Asian Football for some time so we are pleased we can start “It’s a scandalous decision but penalty and the other way round was a roasting. Confederation, Australia competed in building towards hosting Peru on November 11,” what can we do? Nothing,” Wenger he’d be screaming for a penalty,” he “He told people to believe. We Oceania qualifying and had to beat Martin said. complained. “I believe that we had said. had a great start to the season and Uruguay in a playoff to qualify for the “Now it is confirmed we can complete our many many danger situations where The season may only be eight wanted to carry on against the big- 2006 finals in Germany, their first preparations and look forward to one of the big- we could have scored but didn’t. league games old but there is no ger teams.” World Cup appearance since their gest sports events in New Zealand.” 1974 debut. Martin said FIFA agreed to extend the gap Australia defeated Uruguay in a between the two legs after considering requests penalty shoot-out in the second leg at from both national teams to take into account the the Olympic stadium to secure their long-haul travel involved. Mourinho hails ‘magical’ PSG 2006 ticket, sparking wild celebra- “With what is at stake - a place in the FIFA tions across the country. World Cup - we are pleased that FIFA have “Following last week’s dramatic extended the window by a day and ensured that Paris and desires to do new things," the up thanks to their Qatari backing. play-off victory over Syria it comes both teams will have a chance to travel, recover AFP 54-year-old Portuguese said in slightly The Parisians experienced some- down to these last two matches to see from their jet-lag and be at their best for a home halting but fluent French. thing of a hiccup last season, letting slip who will get the final berth at the 2018 and away qualifiers,” he said. ose Mourinho will always seek new "I'm sure that I will not end my a first leg 4-0 lead to Barcelona in the FIFA World Cup,” FFA chief executive New Zealand, who have never played Peru experiences and will one day move career here (at Manchester United)," quarter-finals of the Champions League What I can tell you is that I’m a David Gallop said. before, have been to the World Cup on two occa- on from Manchester United to he said. and having to watch Monaco romp to “There hasn’t been a more impor- sions, in 1982 and in 2010, while Peru have coach elsewhere, he told weekly "The other day my son decided to the French title. coach with concerns, with tant match played in Australia since qualified for four finals but not since 1982. JFrench television show Telefoot in go and watch a match in Paris rather While many thought their Basque ambitions and desires to do our last intercontinental playoff an interview aired yesterday. than Manchester. Why Paris? coach Unai Emery would be fired the new things. I’m sure that I will against Uruguay 12 years ago, and for The former Porto, Chelsea, Inter "Because right now Paris has some- club kept faith in him, but his contract all of us who were there it was truly a Milan and Real Madrid coach refused thing special. There's a magic about the runs out in June. not end my career here at very special moment in Australian to be drawn directly when asked if he place, youth and quality. It's Mourinho, who once worked at Bar- Manchester United: Mourinho sporting history. would soon be working at Qatari fantastic." celona as coach Bobby Robson's “With a place at the 2018 FIFA backed Paris Saint-Germain Paris Saint-Germain secured the interpreter, has a contract with United World Cup in Russia at stake we’re however. services of Brazil's Neymar and new until June 2019, which he said in Sep- calling on all football and sports fans "What I can tell you is that I'm a French wonderkid Kylian Mbapppe this tember he would run down rather than to rally behind the ... Socceroos as they coach with concerns, with ambitions summer and boast a star-studded line renew. Watford’s Troy Deeney scores their first goal against Arsenal from the penalty spot during their aim to qualify for their fourth succes- English Premier League match at Watford, Britain on Saturday. sive FIFA World Cup.”
Barcelona’s Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez celebrates after scoring a Guardiola applauds City’s magnificent seven Suarez earns Barca point goal during the Spanish league football match against Club Atletico de Allardyce Madrid at the Wanda Madrid Spain) met Barca on their first visit to However,ever, Antoine GGriezmannriezmann Metropolitano Stadium in Manchester we have to learn more about, we his team’s defending, particularly AFP the Spanish capital since a Catalan was also ddrivingriving Pique to distrac- Madrid on Saturday. AFP produced a really good perform- in the first half, but did find time independence referendum marred tion as he nutmeggednutmegged thethe SpanishSpanish rules out ance from everybody. to express his admiration for De uis Suarez saved Barcelona’s by violence and deemed illegal by the internationalonal toto bbearear dodownwn oonn ep Guardiola believes Man- “After the international break, Bruyne. unbeaten La Liga record this Spanish government on October 1. goal onlyy to be denied bbyy a chester City produced the it can be a bit complicated, but we “This result isn’t going to Lseason by salvaging a 1-1 draw However, both managers lauded stunning stop ffromrom Ter Pbest performance of his reign did really well. So we played quick define our season. We came up at Atletico Madrid on Saturday in a the atmosphere. Stegen. Scotland job in their swaggering 7-2 thrashing because we played simple. against an exceptional City side match laced with political tension “The stadium was marvellous,” The Germanerman stostopperpper of Stoke City on Saturday. “Everybody helped to give us and we’ve been found wanting, amid Catalonia’s drive for added Simeone. was helplessess onon 2121 min-min- London Kevin De Bruyne was out- an extra pass, and after the qual- in terms of physicality and the independence. “I loved the stadium, the fans, utes whenhen AFP standing, producing two assists ity for the people in the middle, our ability to get close to them,” he Saul Niguez’s spectacular strike (jeers for the opposition) are normal, Saul cutut and playing a part in three more wingers and strikers made the said. had given Atletico an early but it was a great night of football for inside ontonto ormer England manager Sam Allardyce has goals as City scored seven goals for difference. “They’ve got genuine world- advantage. everyone,” said Barca boss Ernesto his supposedlysedly ruled himself out of contention to be the new the first time since Guardiola took “I’m very pleased because we class players within their ranks. However, Barca’s dominance for Valverde. weaker rrightight FScotland coach. charge in July 2016. won, and especially with the way Kevin De Bruyne is head and large spells paid off when Suarez The 68,000 crowd at Atletico’s foot beforee unleash unleash-- Allardyce was one of the bookmakers’ favour- It was the first time City had we won.” shoulders above any player in the finally got the better of the outstand- new Wanda Metropolitano were ing a driveive into thethe bbottomottom ites for the role after Gordon Strachan was scored that many in a league match De Bruyne’s performance was Premier League in my view, given ing Jan Oblak to level nine minutes nearly silenced inside 30 seconds by corner fromom 20 yyards.ards. dismissed on Thursday following Scotland’s fail- since defeating Norwich 7-0 in complimented by both Guardiola the level of performance and the from time. Lionel Messi. Barca went onto ddominateominate ppos-os- ure to qualify for the World Cup. November 2013, with Gabriel Jesus and Stoke manager Mark Hughes, way he can dictate and affect the “Everyone knows Atletico defend The five-time world player of the session, bbutut had to wait until 10 Although Allardyce is out of work after leav- scoring twice, and further goals who described the Belgium mid- game.” very well and have a great goal- year rescued Argentina’s floundering minutes intonto tthehe ssecondecond ha halflf t too fo forcerce ing Crystal Palace at the end of last season, he from Raheem Sterling, David Silva, fielder as the best player currently Hughes defended his decision keeper, but we did enough to believe World Cup qualifying campaign with Oblak intoo aa savesave wwhenhen Suarez Suarez stun stungg isn’t interested in a return to international Fernandinho, Leroy Sane and Ber- in the Premier League. to give a debut to 18-year-old we deserved more in the second half,” a stunning hat-trick in the altitude of the Slovenian’snian’s palmspalms fromfrom outsideoutside football. nardo Silva. “Kevin didn’t score today, but right-back Tom Edwards, who said Suarez. Quito, Ecuador tomorrow to ensure the box. The former West Ham boss, who has Scottish Victory put City two points he is a guy who is so dynamic. He endured a torrid afternoon against A share of the points allows Real his presence at next year’s showpiece Secondsds lalaterter MeMessissi se sentnt a a c curl-url- ancestry, was axed by England after only one clear at the top of the Premier understands the game. Normally, Sane, although he did create Madrid to move up to second, five in Russia. ing free-kickkick offoff thethe outsideoutside ofof tthehe game in charge when he was caught in a news- League, and left Guardiola strug- that kind of player doesn’t do the Stoke’s second goal before an points behind Barca, as Cristiano Ron- And Messi nearly had another post and ththenen ffiredired hhisis bbestest cchancehance paper sting last year. gling to find fault, although he was actions to be aggressive, win the ankle injury forced him off. aldo struck an 85th-minute winner brilliant solo effort to add to his 17 of the matchtch wastefullwastefullyy wide wide 19 19 min- min- “My parents and sister were all born in Scot- disappointed that his side con- ball, and make the right pass and “We didn’t have too many - his first league goal of the season - goals for club and country this sea- utes from time. land, I have heritage from there, there’s no doubt ceded goals either side of the right tempo,” he said. options,” said Hughes. “He was to grind out a hard-fought 2-1 win for son as he weaved past a series of However,ver, after another outstandoutstand-- about that,” Allardyce told BBC 5 Live’s Sports- half-time, with Stoke’s first from “After that, when he has the due to play. He’s deserved his the European champions at Getafe. Atletico challenges before firing into ing Oblaks saveave to to de denyny Suarez, Suarez, Barca’s Barca’s week yesterday. Mame Biram Diouf, and the sec- ball in the positions close to the chance. Atletico move up to third but the side-netting. pressure wwasas rewarrewardedded wwhenhen SerSergigi Asked if the job interested him, he added: “Not ond a Kyle Walker own goal. area, the wingers, strikers and “If he hadn’t got an injury in remain six points behind the “Messi was extraordinary. Every Roberto pickedicked out out an an unmarked unmarked Sua Sua-- at this moment in time because I’m enjoying not “You can always do better but attacking midfielders move pre-season, he would have played leaders. time the ball went through him there rez at theb backack po postst and and his his downward downward being involved at the front end of football at the I cannot deny that today was the because they know the ball is before now, because that’s how “It was a great game between two was danger,” added Simeone. header hhadad too much power for moment. best performance since I arrived coming. well he was doing. teams with very different character- Barca defender Gerard Pique, an Oblak. “I think David Moyes would probably be my here. We played a good 45 min- “He’s a talented player, and he “It’s unfortunate for him, but istics,” said Atletico boss Diego outspoken supporter of Catalonia’s And Suarezuarez sshouldhould h haveave won won t hthee choice for that one. It’s very tempting, but no.” Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola utes, and maybe more than that,” produced a good performance it’s a learning experience, not only Simeone. right to self-determination, was game twoo minutes from time when Former Cardiff boss Malky Mackay has been he said. today.” for him, but for everybody today. A backdrop of Spanish flags and loudly jeered every time he touched he failed to connect with Andre placed in interim charge of Scotland while the “Except for two actions which Hughes was disappointed with He’ll be better for it.” chants of “Viva Espana” (long live the ball. Gomes’s teasingeasing cross. Scottish Football Association search for a perma- nent appointment. 34 SPORT MONDAY 16 OCTOBER 2017 James eyes finals with new-look Cavs
Washington Valuable Player James won two to watch Golden State add Kevin anything seen in the NBA in been nagged by knee injuries for said. AFP titles in four seasons with the Durant and roll to the title last half a century. years. Wade averaged 18.3 “This is all about winning. Miami Heat and begins his quest season with a 16-1 playoff mark. “We all know who the big points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.8 It’s comforting. No matter what eBron James (pic- to match the feat with Cleveland Several clubs made roster dog is, so everybody else has got assists with Chicago last everyone’s role is, when you’re tured) will have an tomorrow when the 2017-18 changes designed to challenge to get in where they fit in,” Cavs season. on the floor you figure it out. overhauled Cleveland campaign opens against visit- the Warriors, with the Cavs guard JR Smith said. “I think he brings another And we’ll be fine.” Cavaliers supporting ing Boston and ex-Cavs adding experience and talent New Cavs guard Dwyane championship DNA, champion- Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue cast this season as he team-mate Kyrie Irving. at the risk of becoming an Wade, 35, was the 2006 NBA ship pedigree,” James said of is confident his revamped ros- Ltries to reach an eighth consec- The Cavs lost to Golden older team with injury Most Valuable Player and is an Wade. ter can mystify rivals and utive NBA Finals and again State in the 2015 finals but took concerns. ex-Heat teammate and long- “He brings another play- become formidable dethrone Golden State as revenge by winning the 2016 But in the end, they remain time James pal while new maker who can get guys offensively. champion. crown, James fulfilling his vow powered by “King” James, backcourt partner Derrick Rose, involved and make plays and “With the starting lineup, Four-time NBA Most to bring a title to Cleveland, only whose finals streak is unlike 29, was the 2011 MVP but has also just has a great basketball they all can push it out on the mind.” break if they rebound the bas- Former Cavs guard Irving, ketball,” Lue said. who averaged 25.2 points and “Guys who can make plays, 5.8 assists last season, was good cutters, good slashers. We traded to Boston in a deal that also can space the floor. We brought over starting forward have a lot of weapons. We’ve Jae Crowder and guard Isaiah just got to put them all together Thomas, who isn’t expected to so they all play well together.” play before January due to an James compared the versa- Four-time NBA Most injured right hip. tility of the rebooted Cavaliers Shifting roles have meant to his Heat squads. Valuable Player Kevin Love taking a centre spot “We have the versatility and James won two titles rather than serving as a forward the ability to fly around with the and two more returning stand- athleticism that we have and the in four seasons with outs, Smith and forward Tristan IQ we have as well,” he said. the Miami Heat and Thompson, have been relegated “We can do a few different to reserves. things defensively. When things begins his quest to “It’s not about who starts the break down, when you have match the feat with game,” said Thompson. versatility and you have speed, “It’s about who is in the it allows you to cover for Cleveland tomorrow game in the fourth and who is mistakes.” when the 2017-18 finishing it.” Wade snubbed several other The Cavs, who also added offers to play again alongside campaign opens 36-year-old Spanish guard Jose James, saying they go together against visiting Calderon, must now blend the “like peanut butter and jelly.” Boston and ex-Cavs talent into a team over an “I look forward to playing 82-game campaign to peak for alongside my brother LeBron,” team-mate Kyrie the playoffs. he said. Irving. “You’re a part of a team and “We’ve already won two you’re going to have to sacrifice championships together and I something to be here,” Wade hope we win a third.”
Malik wants selectors De kock, Amla craft 10-wicket win for SA Kimberley SCOREBOARD AFP to trust in Bangladesh Did not bat: Mashrafe Mortaza, Rubel Hossain, Taskin Imrul Kayes c De Kock b Pretorius ...... 31 Ahmed uinton de Kock and Liton Das c Du Plessis b Rabada ...... 21 South Africa youngsters Hashim Amla shared a Shakib Al Hasan c Amla b Imran Tahir ...... 29 Q de Kock (not out) ...... 168 Qrecord partnership as Mushfiqur Rahim (not out) ...... 110 H Amla (not out) ...... 110 Abu Dhabi South Africa cruised to a "ruth- Mahmudullah c Miller b Pretorius...... 26 Extras (W4) ...... 4 AFP less" ten-wicket win in the first Sabbir Rahman c Paterson b Rabada ...... 19 Total (0 wkts) ...... 282 one-day international against Nasir Hossain c Amla b Rabada ...... 11 Bowling: Rubel Hossain 6-0-37-0, Mashrafe Morta- Mohammad Saifuddin c Paterson b Rabada.... 16 za 8.5-0-50-0, Taskin Ahmed 8-0-61-0 (1w), Shakib akistan’s experienced Bangladesh at the Diamond Oval Extras (LB5, W10) ...... 15 Al Hasan 8-0-48-0 (2w), Mohammad Saifuddin 5-0- batsman Shoaib Malik yesterday. Total (7 wkts) ...... 278 46-0, Nasir Hossain 5-0-29-0 (1w), Mahmudullah Pbelieves youngsters De Kock (168 not out) and Fall of wickets: 1-43, 2-67, 3-126, 4-195, 5-237, 2-0-11-0 should be given the chance to Amla (110 not out) put on an 6-253, 7-278 Did not bat: F. du Plessis, A. de Villiers, D. Miller, J. carry a winning momentum unbeaten 282 to overhaul Bang- Bowling: Rabada 10-1-43-4 (5w), Paterson 9-0-69-0, Duminy, D. Pretorius, A. Phehlukwayo, K. Rabada, D.
into the second day-night ladesh's 278 for seven with 7.1 Imran Tahir 10-0-45-1, Pretorius 10-0-48-2 (1w), Paterson, Imran Tahir international against Sri Lank overs to spare. Phehlukwayo 10-0-60-0 (4w), Duminy 1-0-8-0 Result: South Africa won by ten wickets in Abu Dhabi today. The South African openers Malik’s swashbuckling overshadowed the feat of Mush- Mashrafe Mortaza about the performances,” said the captain. 61-ball 81 and a return to fiqur Rahim, whose 110 not out injuries. De Kock made his runs off 145 form 103 by Babar Malik was the first century by a Bang- Mashrafe said that although balls with 21 fours and two sixes. lifted Pakistan to 292-6 in ladesh batsman against South Bangladesh had posted a good Amla had less of the strike, fac- the first one-day in Dubai on Africa in any international total, "we knew we had to take ing 112 balls and hitting eight Friday before they kept Sri match. Bangladesh's total was wickets. If you can stop the runs fours. Their partnership was the Lanka to 209-8 for a 83-run their highest in one-day games at both ends the pressure will highest for any wicket for South win. against South Africa. bring wickets. But we couldn't Africa and the joint sixth highest The match was Pakistan’s Mushfiqur's innings came apply pressure." in all one-day internationals. first since winning the top with a price. He appeared to suf- South African captain Faf du Mushfiqur made his runs off eight nation Champions Tro- fer a hamstring injury and he Plessis praised what he described 116 balls with 11 fours and two phy in England in June this watched the De Kock-Amla part- as another "dominating" sixes. year. South Africa’s Hashim Amla nership from the players' performance. Shakib made a quiet return Malik said youngsters are (right) and Quinton de balcony, adding to injuries which "As a team you want to be after resting during a two-match developing fast. Kock walk during the first kept two other key players, ruthless. Today was a very, very Test series. He made 29 and con- “It’s important to give ODI against Bangladesh Tamim Iqbal (thigh) and Mustafi- good example of that. When ceded 48 runs in eight overs. But youngsters consistent in Kimberley, South Africa zur Rahman (ankle) out of the you're bossing the game and you he became only the fifth player chances and by doing that we yesterday. match. are 150 for no wicket it's easy to to complete the one-day inter- develop them and the team "We have to keep fighting," throw wickets away, but the guys national 'double' of 5000 runs does well,” said Malik, said Bangladesh captain are hungry to put in massive and 200 wickets. declared man-of-the-match on Friday. Malik said Pakistan has a potent bowling attack. Warner gears up for Ashes battle “We have good fast bowl- ers and the way they took wickets in the middle overs Melbourne “scared eyes”, adding that up when you’re out there. his comments during the during the Champions trophy Reuters he fully expected more History is a big part in this last Ashes held in Australia, it helped us beat top teams words to be exchanged and that is what carries us which the hosts won 5-0. and here too they bowled well ustralian opener during the coming series. onto the ground.” “I have no regrets about and got us wickets we David Warner has “As soon as you step on The five-Test series that and I think that could needed,” said Malik. Afired a salvo ahead that line it’s war,” Warner starts in Brisbane on have played a little bit of a Fast-rising paceman of the Ashes against Eng- said on ABC Grandstand. November 23 and Warner role in the back of their Hasan Ali -- declared player land, likening the series to “You try and get into a said the battle would minds. of the Champions trophy with a “war” and saying the battle as quick as you can. begin in earnest on day “At the moment I’m not 13 wickets -- finished with hosts would work up some I try and look in the oppo- one of the first encounter going to put any vibes out 3-36 while left-armer Rum- “hatred” for their oppo- sition’s eyes and try and at the Gabba. there or get into a verbal man Raees took 3-49 to derail nents to get in the right work out ‘how can I dislike “Four years ago, during stoush... but come day one Sri Lanka. frame of mind. this player, how can I get that first test I made some when we walk out there, Pakistan will retain the Warner also said he did on top of him?’ statements in the media there will definitely be same combination despite not regret comments he You have to delve and and at the time I thought it some words exchanged. I opener Ahmed Shehzad fail- made during the first Ashes dig deep into yourself to was a great thing to come think the subtle approach Australian opener David Warner in action ing to score in the opening Test at the Gabba in 2013 actually get some hatred out and speak what I said,” these days is how it is and match on Friday. about England having about them to actually get he added, in reference to how it goes.” against Pakistan in this file photo. MONDAY 16 OCTOBER 2017 SPORT 35
CIMB CLASSIC SCORES 264 - Pat Perez (USA) 66-65-64-69 268 - Keegan Bradley (USA) 65-71-65-67 Perez clinches Classic trophy 271 - Xander Schauffele (USA) 65-67-67-72, Kang Sung-Hoon (KOR) 67-68-65-71 272 - Cameron Smith (AUS) 64-71-73-64, Hideki Matsuyama (JPN) 70-68-63-71 274 - Danny Lee (NZL) 73-65-68-68, Paul Kuala Lumpur from shoulder surgery. “I was Casey (ENG) 77-63-69-65, Lucas Glover AFP so excited to come back after, (USA) 71-67-68-68 you know, being out for so at Perez fired a three- long,” he said. 275 - Rafa Cabrera Bello (ESP) 67-70-69-69, under-par 69 “I did not think I was going Peter Uihlein (USA) 73-68-65-69, Anirban yesterday to win the to win this week... I putted unbe- Lahiri (IND) 67-73-64-71 Pat Perez CIMB Classic in lievable really. I didn’t hit it that 276 - Nick Taylor (CAN) 70-74-67-65, Luke of the US Malaysia by four great.” List (USA) 70-70-68-68, Brendan Steele lifts the Pstrokes, firmly eclipsing two- In sweltering conditions, (USA) 67-71-70-68, Stewart Cink (USA) 72- trophy after time defending champion Justin Perez, who led since Friday’s winning the Thomas to claim just his third second round, birdied three of 68-67-69 2017 CIMB career title. the first four holes on Sunday to 277 - Chez Reavie (USA) 68-74-69-66, Ca- Classic golf Perez finished with an maintain his four-shot overnight milio Villegas (COL) 72-68-70-67, Justin aggregate score of 264 at par- lead. He seemed surprised by tournament in Thomas (USA) 70-71-69-67, C.T.Pan (TPE) 72 TPC Kuala Lumpur, ahead of the turn in fortunes so late in his Kuala Lumpur second-placed Keegan Bradley career, describing himself as a 70-70-69-68 yesterday. with Xander Schauffele and “late bloomer”, but vowed he 278 - Kyle Stanley (USA) 71-67-70-70, David Kang Sung-Hoon seven off the would not change his lifestyle. Lipsky (USA) 69-71-68-70 pace in joint third. Thomas said he “ran out of Perez ended a seven-year gas” after coming into the tour- trophy drought at last year’s nament off a superb season. OHL Classic and now, in his “I was definitely low on gas. 403rd start on tour, the 41-year- It’s been a great but a long year,” old American becomes the he said. I did not think I CIMB’s oldest winner. The 24-year-old American But there was disappoint- had a breakthrough season in was going to win ment for Thomas, the PGA 2016-17, racking up five wins this week... I Championship title-holder and including his maiden major 2017 PGA Tour Player of the victory. putted Year, who finished tied for 17th Other favourites at the CIMB unbelievable despite a 67 in the final round also fared poorly, with Japan’s of his title defence. Hideki Matsuyama finishing tied really. I didn’t hit it Perez, who shot rounds of for fifth and India’s Anirban that great: Pat 66, 65, 64 and 69, relished his Lahiri tied for 10th. latest victory, particularly as he Perez gets the $1.26m prize Perez
did not play for months at the purse and 500 FedEX Cup points
start of 2016 while recovering for his win.
Crosby stars NFL: Langi as Penguins Los Angeles Dodgers draw hospitalised edge out after car Panthers first blood in Cubs rematch accident
New York Los Angeles Correa smacked a 3-ball, New York Agencies AFP MLB Play-off series: Dodgers take lead 2-strike fastball from Aroldis AFP Chapman into the right center- idney Crosby scored asiel Puig homered and The Dodgers take a 1-0 lead in the best-of- field gap to score Jose Altuve ew England Patriots twice, including the win- drove in another as the seven NLCS. The winner of the series will play from first base. reserve rookie line- Sner when he batted the YLos Angeles Dodgers ral- either the Houston Astros or the New York Altuve raced around the Nbacker Harvey Langi puck out of the air in the third lied to beat the World Series Yankees for the MLB crown. bases, scoring when Yankees and his wife were hospital- period, as Pittsburgh downed champion Chicago Cubs 5-2 to right fielder Aaron Judge made ised after their car was Florida. open their Major League Base- his relay throw toward the mid- rear-ended by another vehi- Patric Hornqvist and Greg ball (MLB) play-off series. Maddon burst from the dugout the fifth. After Cubs starter Jose dle of the infield and catcher cle, the NFL team announced McKegg also scored and Kris The Dodgers, sent packing to argue and was promptly Quintana gave up back-to-back Gary Sanchez couldn’t grab the on Saturday. Letang added two assists for by the Cubs in last year’s ejected. walks to Logan Forsythe and subsequent throw to home. The three-car chain reac- the Penguins, who are 8-0-2 National League Championship Maddon said Wilson had no Austin Barnes, Puig doubled to Verlander worked nine tion accident took place on in their past 10 games against Series, took a 1-0 lead in the choice but to move toward the score one run and Culberson’s innings, allowing one run on five Friday night, with the Patri- the Panthers with five wins best-of-seven NLCS with game baseline to catch the ball. fly scored Barnes. hits with one walk and 13 ots listing the 25-year-old as in a row at home. two set at Dodger Stadium. “His technique was abso- Kershaw lasted five innings, strikeouts. He threw 124 pitches out for Sunday’s game at the Matt Murray made 43 The winner of the series will lutely 100 percent perfect,” giving up four hits with four -- 93 of them for strikes -- and New York Jets with a back saves for Pittsburgh. play either the Houston Astros Maddon said. “I could not disa- strikeouts. He retired the last six held off the Yankees to give the injury. Jonathan Huberedau or the New York Yankees for the gree more with the batters he faced before the Astros a chance to rally. “We are aware of the traf- scored twice, Aaron Ekblad major league crown. interpretation of that.” Dodgers went to their bullpen. “He was exceptional in every fic accident involving Harvey also tallied and Evgenii Dado- The Astros took a 2-0 lead Taylor, who started the sea- Kenley Jansen recorded the way,” Astros manager A.J. Hinch Langi and a passenger last nov had two assists for in the American League Cham- son in the minor leagues, had put last four outs for the save. said of Verlander. night in Foxborough,” the Florida. pionship Series with a 2-1 win the Dodgers up 3-2 in the sixth In Houston, Carlos Correa In the fourth inning, Correa Patriots said in a statement. The Panthers’ James over the Yankees in Houston on with a homer off Cubs relief followed a homer with a walk- turned a 99-mph (159.33 Km/h) “The two were stopped at a Reimer stopped 29 shots. Saturday. pitcher Hector Rondon. off double for the Astros. fastball from Luis Severino for a traffic light when they were Meanwhile, the Toronto The Dodgers received a pre- Albert Almora’s two-run Correa’s ninth-inning effort home run to right. rear-ended by another Maple Leafs snapped a game blow when a back injury homer off Clayton Kershaw in ensured the Astros capitalized The ball barely eluded Judge, vehicle. 14-game losing streak against to Corey Seager forced the All- the fourth inning had staked the on a stellar performance from and a young fan in the first row “They were both trans- the Montreal Canadiens with Star shortstop off the NLCS Cubs to a 2-0 lead. starting pitcher Justin of seats deflected it into the ported to a local hospital a 4-3 overtime victory. roster. The Dodgers responded in Verlander. stands. with injuries and are receiv- Auston Matthews scored But they managed fine with- ing medical attention. Our his second goal of the game out him, with homers from Puig thoughts are with Harvey, and fifth of the season 48 sec- and Chris Taylor. Los Angeles the Langi family and those onds into the extra session to Puig homered to lead off the Dodgers right who sustained injuries in give Toronto its first win bottom of the seventh, sending fielder Yasiel last night’s accident,” he against Montreal since Janu- the Dodger Stadium crowd in to Puig hits an RBI said. ary 18, 2014. a frenzy. double against New England Sports Net- ESPN NHL RESULTS “He loves the big stage, and the Chicago Cubs work and reported the his only focus is helping us con- in the fifth inning injuries were not Los Angeles 4 Buffalo 2 tinue to win baseball games,” during game life-threatening. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts Langi cracked the Super NY Islanders 3 San Jose 1 one of the 2017 said of the mercurial Cuban. “So Bowl champions’ 53-man NLCS play-off Calgary 5 Vancouver 2 right now he’s playing at a high roster as an undrafted player Ottawa 6 Edmonton 1 level, and not only the fans, but baseball series at from Brigham Young Dodger Stadium Boston 6 Arizona 2 his teammates are feeding off of University. it.” in Los Angeles on Meanwhile, The San Chicago 2 Nashville 1 Charlie Culberson followed Saturday. Francisco 49ers released line- Dallas 3 Colorado 1 with a double, and after Taylor backer NaVorro Bowman Columbus 5 Minnesota 4 singled, raced home on a single after the veteran expressed Winnipeg 2 Carolina 1 from Justin Turner. displeasure at coming out of Culberson was ruled out at last week’s game. Toronto 4 Montreal 3 home plate, but that call was The team agreed to the Tampa Bay 2 St. Louis 1 overturned on review, with 29-year-old Bowman’s New Jersey 3 NY Rangers 2 major league officials saying request to be released after
Philadelphia 8 Washington 2 Contreras violated the home trade scenarios were inves-
plate collision rule by illegally tigated, according to general Pittsburgh 4 Florida 3 blocking his path to the plate. manager John Lynch and Incensed Cubs manager Joe coach Kyle Shanahan. 36 SPORT MONDAY 16 OCTOBER 2017 Timeless Federer prevails over Nadal Swiss legend ‘saves the best for Shanghai quite as fresh as his younger AFP Shanghai Masters foe, having been pushed to last’ to beat great Spanish rival three sets a day earlier in the oger Federer said The surprisingly second semi-final against for the fifth time in succession to he “saved the one-sided 6-4, 6-3 Juan Martin del Potro. best for last” after victory over the The timeless Federer win the Shanghai Masters he beat great world number one rubbished that notion as he rival Rafael Nadal from Spain brought seared his way to a 5-3 first- Rfor the fifth time in succes- a 94th title for the set lead. sion to win the Shanghai Swiss legend, Nadal sent down his Masters yesterday. drawing him level fourth ace for 5-4, only for The surprisingly one- with the great Ivan Federer to seal the set with sided 6-4, 6-3 victory over Lendl. his seventh ace of the match. the world number one from There was little between Spain brought a 94th title for the great rivals in the early the Swiss legend, drawing “The serve only got bet- exchanges of the second set him level with the great Ivan ter and I saved the best for until the fifth game. Lendl. last -- I played some great Nadal saved the first Nadal, who admitted matches, against (Juan Mar- break point but could not afterwards that he had been tin) del Potro in sets two and survive the second one, to defeated by the better man three and now these two sets put Federer in touch of the on the night, was ahead in here today. title. their overall head-to-head “In a way not surprising Nadal’s defeat sees Fed- record going into the clash because I felt good all week... erer close the gap at the top -- 23 wins to Federer’s 14. I was ready.” of the world rankings as the But this time he was up Federer, fondly known year approaches its climax. against it almost right away. as “Cow” in China for his But the Spaniard has never- Number two Federer put laid-back personality, theless enjoyed a the Spaniard under the cosh started the better in grabbing remarkable season of his in breaking him in the first the break and then rattled own. game, to roars of approval through his own service His triumph in Beijing from the majority inside the game for 2-0. last weekend was also his arena. Federer, a 19-time Grand sixth of the year as he con- Another break to Slam champion, was in full tinues to defy doubts about 36-year-old Federer in the flow under the Qizhong Ten- his fitness following fifth game of the second set nis Center roof, which was repeated injuries. put him in reach of a second closed because of down- The Spaniard called it Shanghai Masters crown -- pours in Shanghai. “an emotional year”. and a sixth title in 2017. Nadal, 31, fresh from “I could maybe have Federer, who has been winning the US Open and done some things better,” managing his schedule to China Open, groaned while said Nadal. wring the best out of his age- lashing many of his shots “Of course was not the ing body, said he had while Federer was all quiet best match of the week for improved as the week went efficiency. me... but when someone on and felt he hit peak form Somewhere in the sta- plays better than you in most just when it mattered. dium somebody rattled a of the things that really mat- “It’s been a tough week, cow bell and Federer ter in this sport, then it’s five straight matches is responded by making it 4-2 tough.” always a test and a challenge with two booming aces in a He declined to say if he for anybody’s body, espe- row. had been hampered by a cially with the pressure In contrast, Nadal -- a problem with his right knee, rising,” he said. 16-time Grand Slam winner which had a bandage on it “I felt I was playing well who has never won the during the match. all week and that settled my Shanghai Masters -- was “I don’t want to talk nerves because I was return- labouring through his serv- about that now, sorry,” ing well from the match here ice games. Nadal said. Roger Federer of Switzerland poses with his trophy after beating against (Diego) Schwartz- There were suggestions “After losing a final it’s man (in his opener). that Federer might not be not the moment.” Rafael Nadal of Spain in the men’s singles final match at the Shanghai Masters tennis tournament in Shanghai yesterday.
Winner Maria Sharapova of Russia (right) and Aryna Strycova wins Linz title Sabalenka of Belarus pose Linz, Austria “And we are still standing with their trophies after AP here all together and it’s really the women’s singles final something special for me.” of the Tianjin Open in arbora Strycova ended a Strycova broke the top- Tianjin, China yesterday. six-year wait for her sec- seeded Rybarikova in the Bond WTA singles title opening game and held on to yesterday by defeating the advantage to take the first Magdalena Rybarikova of Slo- set. vakia 6-4, 6-1 at the Ladies Strycova added three more Linz. breaks to take a quick 5-0 lead Having won 20 doubles in the second as Rybarikova tournaments, the 26th-ranked looked hampered by a right Czech player improved to 2-6 thigh injury. in career singles finals after Strycova dropped serve for winning her maiden title in the only time in the match but Quebec City in 2011. broke back immediately and Strycova lifted the trophy converted her first match point at the Austrian indoor event on Rybarikova’s serve to close with former seventh-ranked out the victory. player Barbara Schett looking The 28th-ranked Rybarik- on. Schett helped the Czech at ova, who lost in the semifinals the start of her professional at Wimbledon this year to career in 2003. eventual champion Garbine “I would like to thank my Muguruza, was after her fifth Sharapova lifts first title since ban mentor. When I was 17, she career title and first since 2013. was my mentor and she was She is now 1-4 against Stry- still playing, it’s Babsi,” the cova, having beaten her only Tianjin her 36th tour title and first in she won four games in a row to along the way -- before serving 31-year-old Strycova said after when they met for the first AFP more than two years since the go 4-1 up. for the match at 6-5. the match. time 10 years ago. 2015 Italian Open. Sharapova’s coach Sven But a double fault from the ive-time Grand Slam win- Sharapova, 30, was contest- Groeneveld urged her to use the Russian took it to a closely con- Barbora Strycova of Czech ner Maria Sharapova was ing the seventh tournament of body serve, and momentum tested tie-break, where Republic in action in this Fmade to fight by 102nd- what has been an injury-plagued immediately shifted as she held Sharapova held championship file photo. Strycova ended a ranked teenager Aryna and controversial comeback the next game and then edged a points four times before finally six-year wait for her second Sabalenka at the Tianjin Open since testing positive for the nine-minute game seven to sealing it after two hours and five WTA singles title yesterday yesterday before winning her first banned substance meldonium in wrestle it back on serve. minutes. by defeating Magdalena title since her 15-month doping early 2016. Sabalenka angrily slammed Sharapova, whose ranking Rybarikova of Slovakia. ban. She exchanged 11 breaks of her racquet down as she double- has dropped to 86, has been The former world number serve with the Belarusian, who faulted to be broken for a third playing on wildcards this sea- one, who returned to action in has yet to win a WTA trophy, time and with Sharapova serv- son. Her return has proved April, came from behind in both before finally clinching it in the ing at 6-5, the Belarusian divisive, with some rivals insist- sets and needed four champion- tie-breaker when the teenager overcooked a forehand to hand ing she shouldn’t be back on tour ship points in the tie-breaker put a forehand return long. over the set. at all. before beating the 19-year-old In a tight final of high-deci- The second set followed a She now heads to next week’s 7-5, 7-6 (10/8). bel shrieking, Sabalenka was similar pattern and Sabalenka Kremlin Cup in Moscow for the Sharapova clasped her hands broken in the opening game but was 5-1 up before Sharapova first time since 2007, after also to her chest in delight as she any expectations that she would reeled her in, breaking three being given a wildcard to play in absorbed the feeling of winning roll over quickly dissolved when times -- and saving a set point what is her home tournament.