SPORT 27 OCTOBER 2017 FRIDAY 21

Blue Jackets trounce Sabres; St Louis outwit Game 2: Astros beat Dodgers Flames 5-2 New York Agencies 7-6 to square World Series he Columbus Blue Jack- ets scored three Tsecond-period goals in a three-minute span and halted a two-game home los- Los Angeles “That’s the craziest game that I’ve ing streak with a 5-1 victory Reuters ever played in,” he told reporters. over the Buffalo Sabres on “And it’s only Game Two.” Wednesday night at Nation- For the second straight game the wide Arena. That’s the craziest eorge Springer’s two-run Fall Classic played out in unseason- The Blue Jackets (6-3-0) home run in the 11th ably warm conditions in Los Angeles, extended their franchise-best game that I’ve inning gave the Astros a with the mercury hitting 95 degree start to the season with their ever played in and wild 7-6 win over the Los F (35C) at first pitch. first win during a four-game Angeles Dodgers on The 54,293 in attendance homestand that ends Friday it’s only Game GWednesday to send the World Series included golfers Tiger Woods and night against the Winnipeg Two: George to Houston tied at 1-1. Fred Couples as well as former Den- Jets. The Astros offense, which has ver Broncos quarterback Peyton Seth Jones had a goal and Springer been virtually nonexistent on the Manning and a raft of movie and an assist, Oliver Bjorkstrand road this postseason, came to life in music stars. scored on a power play, and extra innings when Jose Altuve and The high-scoring game had Nick Foligno, Matt Calvert Carlos Correa hit back-to-back solo started out as a pitchers duel, with and Josh Anderson added the home runs to lead off the 10th, Verlander’s no-hit bid broken up in other Columbus goals. Sergei putting the Astros up 5-3. the bottom of the fifth by a Joc Peter- Bobrovsky finished with 34 The Dodgers responded in the son blast to right field that tied the saves. bottom half of the inning when slug- game at 1-1.Verlander was punished The Sabres (3-6-2) had ger Yasiel Puig hit a solo blast and again in the sixth when Corey Seager won two in a row but were Kike Hernandez doubled in a run to smashed a 97-mile-per hour fastball thwarted in their bid for their tie the game at 5-5. into the stands for a two-out, two- first three-game winning But Springer’s home run, one of run home run, putting the Dodgers streak since February. eight hit during the game, proved to ahead 3-1. Meanwhile, Alexander be the difference even after the Dodgers manager Dave Roberts Steen had a goal and three Dodgers’ Charlie Culberson’s two- elected to bring hard-throwing closer assists, and Paul Stastny out solo shot in the 11th cut the Kenley Jansen in during the eighth added a goal and an assist as Houston lead to 7-6. inning in the hopes of a six-out save, the St Louis Blues beat the Puig struck out on a 3-2 pitch in but Houston had other ideas. Calgary Flames 5-2 on the bottom of the 11th to end the Carlos Correa’s single scored Alex Wednesday night. 4-hour and 19-minute contest. Bregman and cut the Dodgers’ lead Jaden Schwartz, Alex Pie- “This is an instant classic and to to 3-2. It was also the first run scored trangelo and Joel Edmundson be able to be part of it is pretty spe- off the dominant Dodgers bullpen in also scored for the Blues (7-2- cial,” Astros starting pitcher Justin 28 consecutive postseason innings. 1), who improved to 3-0-0 at Verlander told a news conference. Jansen gave up a solo home run home. Goalie Jake Allen made “That’s why I love this team. to Marwin Gonzalez to start the ninth 23 saves. Mikael Backlund Houston Astros centre fielder There’s no quit. Top to bottom of the inning, which tied the game at 3-3 scored both Flames goals as George Springer runs the bases lineup. Anybody can win a game at and gave the righty just his second Calgary (5-5-0) lost for the after hitting a two run home any time.” blown save of the year. third time in four games. run against the Los Angeles Springer, who rewarded Astros The series shifts to Texas with the Flames goalie Eddie Lack, manager AJ Hinch’s faith in him after momentum now firmly with Hou- Dodgers in the eleventh inning playing for the first time this going hitless in Game One, said the ston for the next three games at in Game Two of the 2017 World season, made 24 saves. It was game was an emotional rollercoaster. Minute Maid Park. his first career loss to the Blues Series at Dodger Stadium on after winning his previous six Wednesday. games against St. Louis. Boxing: Joshua won’t Westbrook triple double change style for Takam sparks win over Indiana

Cardiff his fighting style. speed gave him an New York Cavaliers, who like Reuters “We’re going to have a edge over Joshua, who AFP Brooklyn are 3-2.Cleve- war, we’re going to is unbeaten in 19 pro- land surrendered 17 nthony Joshua wear our hearts on our fessional bouts. ussell Westbrook 3-pointers for the third has no intention sleeves,” Joshua told “I’m not bothered produced his 81st game in a row. Aof taking a defen- Sky Sports. about fighting in front Rcareer NBA triple Houston’s Eric Gor- sive approach when he “When people of 80,000 people, the double on Wednesday to don sank a 3-pointer from defends his IBF, WBA come to see me box, only people in the ring spark the Oklahoma City the left corner at the and IBO world heavy- they know they are will be myself and Thunder over visiting buzzer to give the Rock- weight titles against going to see knockouts Joshua, nothing else Indiana 114-96, helping ets a 105-104 victory at Carlos Takam in Cardiff, and a bit of blood, and matters except the Paul George win his first Philadelphia. Wales tomorrow. a bit of respect after. two athletes,” the game against his former Gordon scored a Home favourite That’s what boxing is Cameroonian-French- club. game-high 29 points, Joshua delivered one of about. man, a late Westbrook had 28 James Harden added 17 the finest nights in Brit- “I’m a wholesome replacement for points, 10 rebounds and points and 13 assists and ish boxing when he fighter, I’ve got that injured Bulgarian 16 assists while Carmelo Clint Capella had 16 beat Ukrainian roughness in me. When Kubrat Pulev, told Brit- Anthony netted 28 points points and a career-high Wladimir Klitschko to I need to dig deep and ish media. and grabbed 10 rebounds 20 rebounds for the be crowned heavy- the skills aren’t work- “If I can do things and New Zealander Ste- Rockets, who scored the weight champion at ing, I know I can pull it differently from what ven Adams added 17 final nine points. Wembley in April. out of the bag.” other boxers have done points and 11 rebounds for JJ Redick scored 22 At around five Meanwhile, against Joshua, I’ll have the Thunder. points and Joel Embiid 21 inches shorter than 36-year-old Takam was a chance to win by George, nagged by to lead the 76ers, who the Briton, Takam rep- relaxed about the pros- knockout. It will be just foul trouble and fouling went scoreless over the resents a different pect of fighting in front as important to work out with 6:13 remaining, final three minutes, while challenge to Klitschko of 80,000 people at Joshua’s body as well as managed only 10 points Australia’s Ben Simmons but Joshua said he will the Principality Stadium the head, and my speed on eight shots in 19 min- had 14 points, nine change nothing about in Cardiff and said his will be important too.” utes while one of the rebounds and seven players sent to the Pacers Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell assists for Philadelphia. for him, ex-Thunder Westbrook drives to the basket against guard Victor Oladipo, led Indiana Pacers durind their NBA game in NBA RESULTS Indiana with 35 points. Oklahoma City on Wednesday. “All my focus, every- Golden State 117 Toronto 112 thing is to get better and LA Lakers 102 Washington 99 bring all of my talent Spencer Dinwiddie, guard for the second con- Phoenix 97 Utah 88 here,” George said. who led the Nets’ six dou- secutive night, struck for Dallas 103 Memphis 94 LeBron James stung ble-digit scorers with a 29 points, 13 assists, 10 San Antonio 117 Miami 100 Brooklyn for a triple dou- career-high 22 points, sank rebounds and four O’ City 114 Indiana 96 Anthony Joshua during a press ble but the Nets hung on a 3-pointer from near mid- blocked shots while Kyle Brooklyn 112 Cleveland 107 conference in Cardiff yesterday. for a 112-107 victory over court with 43 seconds Korver came off the Charlotte 110 Denver 93

Cleveland, remaining remaining to give Brook- bench to score 22 points Detroit 122 Minnesota 101 unbeaten at home in the lyn the lead for good. and Kevin Love added 15 Houston 105 Philadelphia 104 young season. James, moved to point and 12 rebounds for the 22 SPORT FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2017 Australia’s hopefuls pad up for auditions

Melbourne in Hilton Cartwright is also a Reuters contender after his surprise selection at number six for the ustralia’s domestic second Test against Bangladesh Sheffield Shield in Chittagong last month. tends to open sleep- “In an ideal world you’d ily, with spring want someone like a Ben Stokes sunshine warming who can give you the ideal bal- theA few diehard fans that turn ance, bat and bowl,” selector up to regional venues but audi- Mark Waugh, a former Test tions for coveted Ashes places batsman, told Sky Sports Radio have given the start of this year’s earlier this month. tournament additional spice. “But I think your number six Australia may be comforta- as it stands is probably going to ble on their own pitches and be a batsman and ideally he confident of fending off an Eng- bowls a bit.” land side likely to be without The -keeper position all-rounder Ben Stokes, their has troubled Australia since Hathab Series: Stage most valuable player, for at least Brad Haddin’s retirement after part of the five-Test series. and Pat the last Ashes in 2015 and However, the question of Cummins. Wade’s reinstatement at the who will bat at six in the order One player desperate for red expense of Peter Nevill in the has become an increasing bug- ball form will be Victoria state’s last home summer proved (pictured set for the 2nd round bear for a team desperate for a divisive. quality all-rounder of their own above), who scored a fine cen- Seemingly favoured for his while also needing some starch tury at number six against India niggle over the more subdued The Peninsula in the middle after a worrying in March but has failed to sur- Nevill, Wade has not justified his string of batting collapses. pass 50 in seven Test innings selection with the bat and com- ressage competitions Queries over the best man since. piled just 17 runs from his three have been scheduled in behind the stumps have also With selectors keen to have innings during the two-Test tour Dthe second round of the grown in volume since the a part-time bowler able to pro- of Bangladesh. 12-leg Hathab Series, organis- incumbent Matt Wade was vide relief for the pacemen over Nevill, considered a techni- ers said yesterday. dropped for a single one-day the course of a long campaign, cally superior keeper to Wade, On the first day of the sec- international in India earlier this Maxwell’s ability to soak up will New South Wales ond round today at Al Shaqab month and then reinstated in the some overs with his off-spin in the absence of regular skip- Arena, the Open Tour competi- next game. would be valuable. per Moises Henriques as he tion (110/115cm) will commence With less than a month The hard-hitting 29-year- looks for a weight of runs to dis- at 2:00pm. before the first test kicks off at old is under pressure from lodge the incumbent The Open Class competition the Gabba on Nov. 23, the open- Western Australia’s uncapped Tasmanian. (115/125cm) will start at 4:00pm. ing matches of the first-class Marcus Stoinis, a medium pace- South Australia’s uncapped Tomorrow the two dressage Sheffield Shield will also be a all-rounder who has Alex Carey, who posted an all- competitions will be held at battle-ground for the pacemen averaged 86.25 in his eight ODIs time record 59 dismissals in the 8:30am and 10:30am in what as they look to replace the and impressed during the recent 2016-17 Shield season, is seen will be the morning session for injured James Pattinson as first tour of India. as a dark horse to dislodge the the competitors. understudy to , Another Western Australian seasoned campaigners. In the evening session, a rid- ers will feature in the Medium Riders guide Tour (2:00pm, 120/130cm). their horses In the feature event of the during a vet second round, riders will com- check at Warner’s pete for glory in the Big Tour AL Shaqab class (4:00pm, 130/140cm), words of war organisers said. Arena. The A joint effort of Qatar second will motivate Equestrian Federation (QEF) round of and Al Shaqab, the Hathab the Hathab Series events will alternate Series will England, says between Al Shaqab Arena and be held QEF’s Outdoor Arena, Event today and Broad Director Ali Al Rumaihi said last tomorrow at week. The series is being Al Shaqab London broadcast live on Al Kass Sports Arena. Reuters Channel. Australia’s team batsman speaks to the media in Sydney. ustralian batsman David Warner likening A the Ashes to a “war” Pakistan’s Sarfraz rejected will serve to motivate Eng- land, the visitors’ paceman Koepka grabs 1-shot said, as the teams gear up for a five- spot-fixing approach match series that begins on Abu Dhabi November 23. AFP Warner made the com- lead in Shanghai parison last month, in a aptain Sarfraz Ahmed (pictured) said that he was the Paki- clarion call to summon stan player who was approached by an alleged bookie during “hatred” towards England Shanghai Cthe one-day international series that drew a mixed response Reuters against Sri Lanka earlier this month. from ex-players and The wicketkeeper-batsman reported the pundits. incident to the International Cricket Coun- Broad, 31 and no stranger S Open champion Brooks cil (ICC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to Ashes controversy having Koepka made a strong at the time. been constantly heckled dur- U start to his first hit-out of The news of a Pakistani player ing the 2013-14 series, said the new season, shooting an approached for fixing made headlines before the Australian’s words could eight-under 64 to grab a one- the fourth match of a series the nominal fuel England’s bid to retain stroke lead at the $9.75m hosts won 5-0. The PCB confirmed on Sat- the urn. WGC-HSBC Champions event in urday that an unnamed player was approached with an offer but “It is a common theme Shanghai yesterday. promptly reported the matter to its anti-corruption unit. that ex-Australian players Koepka plundered seven The PCB said the incident was conveyed to the ICC, whose and Australia players are birdies and an eagle, on the par- anti-corruption unit interviewed the player. quite vocal in the media,” five 18th, at Sheshan Golf Club to Sarfraz captained his side in a three-match Twenty20 series Broad told Sky Sports yester- break clear of Malaysia’s Gavin Brooks Koepka of the US against Sri Lanka starting in Abu Dhabi on Thursday. day. “It is just one of the Green and Kiradech Aphibarn- shakes hands with his “Obviously I did my job of informing, but I was not scared tactics they use... rat of Thailand in joint second. caddy in Shanghai. when I informed about it,” said Ahmed when he was asked if he “Warner’s a very compet- South Africa’s Haydn Porte- feels under pressure because of the incident. itive guy... He’s already talked ous and American Patrick Reed “I did become scared after I saw myself on the television. There about the Ashes being like a were a stroke further behind on claiming his maiden major title par-four seventh gave him a was so much talk about it on the television that I got scared. war for him and we can use six-under, with world number in June and capping the season share of the lead, he rolled in a “By the grace of Allah everything is getting normal. When you that to help us.” one Dustin Johnson four strokes with a role in the United States’ delightful downhill putt from are going into a series you need to be normal and everything is Broad, who became Eng- adrift after shooting 68 in sub- Presidents Cup victory. the fringe of the green at the going good so far.” land’s second highest lime conditions for golf. Starting his round at the 10th par-five eighth to move clear Pakistan cricket was hit by a fixing scandal during the second wicket-taker this year, said “I think I played really well, hole, the 27-year-old rolled in a and held steady with a par on edition of the Pakistan Super League earlier this year that saw in his interview: “The Ashes putted very well,” Koepka said 21-foot putt for eagle on the 18th the last. Pakistan openers Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif banned for two- tour is the biggest one you can after his round. before stumbling with a bogey Long-hitting Johnson, chas- and-a-half and five years respectively. go on.” He added: “We’re just “I feel like I started really on the par-four third. He ing his third WGC title of 2017, The most infamous spot-fixing incident to hit Pakistani cricket desperate to get to Australia well, drove it really well. Any responded brilliantly to the set- had a slower start in his season- came on the 2010 tour of England, when then-captain Salman and let it begin. Everyone’s time you’re making putts ... back, however, landing his next opener. He notched six birdies Butt and bowlers Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif were all been very focused in their you’re going to shoot good.” tee shot two feet from the pin for but was left cursing his second given prison sentences for consipiring to bowl deliberate no-balls training... I think it’s set up to The American enjoyed a stel- a tap-in birdie. bogey of the day at the eighth, in the fourth Test at Lord’s. be a brilliant series.” lar 2016-17 on the US Tour, After another birdie at the his penultimate hole. FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2017 SPORT 23

Celtic go clear In-form Spurs aim to deliver as pressure mounts on Rangers boss knockout blow to Man United Glasgow AFP

London Heung-min alongside Harry oussa Dembele Reuters Kane. Tottenham Hotspur’s midfielder Dele Alli reacts after the scored a double as he In Kane, Spurs have a striker English Premier League football match against West Mhelped Celtic move t may only be October but in hotter form than even Unit- Ham United at Wembley Stadium in London. three points clear at the top the clash tomorrow ed’s Romelu Lukaku with nine of the Scottish Premiership between Manchester goals in six games while their with a 3-0 win over nearest United and Tottenham Hot- defence look a more coherent challengers Aberdeen at spur at Old Trafford is unit than United’s in the contin- Pittodrie. Ialready shaping up as an early- ued absence of Eric Bailly. Celtic made light work of season eliminator to challenge While the expected return of their hosts with Kieran Tier- runaway leaders Manchester Phil Jones should ensure no ney’s first league goal of the City for the Premier League title. repeat of last week’s disasters in season giving them a 13th Despite being at home and the 2-1 defeat at Huddersfield minute lead. above Spurs on goal difference, Town, Mourinho’s sharp criti- The 21-year-old then second-placed United will be cism suggested all is not right in turned provider for Dembele very wary of the league’s team United’s camp and the absence to tap in his first in the 39th of the moment. of Paul Pogba has deprived them minute. Tottenham’s 4-1 destruction of their early-season swagger. The French striker, who of Liverpool last week, soon after There was also something also bagged a brace in Celt- United’s uninspiring goalless missing from Manchester City in ic’s League Cup win over draw at Anfield, means the vis- midweek, although despite not Hibernian on Saturday, itors will arrive full of confidence scoring for 120 minutes against rounded off the scoring as he despite their shock 3-2 defeat by Championship leaders Wolver- nodded home from close West Ham United in the League hampton Wanderers in the their next four matches. and managed by the best man at again run out under Michael range in the 63rd minute in a Cup on Wednesday. League Cup they triumphed in Manager Tony Pulis believes his wedding, David Wagner. Appleton, who has won both of real show of strength from the “Spurs know it will be a the penalty shootout. the strength of the promoted The pair remain good friends his games in temporary charge. Scottish champions. measure of themselves playing Sergio Aguero still seeks the teams will put a premium on but sentiment will not be on Arsenal should have enough It extends Celtic’s there,” former United assistant one goal that will make him the Premier League survival this show tomorrow when Klopp firepower to see off Swansea City unbeaten domestic run to 61 manager Mike Phelan told Sky club’s all-time record scorer and season and could find the club’s cannot afford another setback. while Watford look to continue matches as Aberdeen tasted Sports. “But I don’t think (the two will back himself against West nine-year stay in the top tier He may decide to put his faith in their impressive season at home defeat for the first time in this results) will change Jose Mour- Bromwich Albion tomorrow, under threat. Joe Gomez in central defence in to another of this season’s strug- campaign. inho’s mentality. The expectation assuming tinkerman Pep Guar- Liverpool’s manager Juergen place of Dejan Lovren, who he glers, Stoke City. Meanwhile, pressure con- at Old Trafford is always to win.” diola lets him on the pitch. Klopp is another feeling the substituted after half an hour Chelsea head for Bourne- tinues to mount on Rangers That will not be easy against City have already won at the pressure, although for different against Spurs. mouth while derby tensions manager Pedro Caixinha after a team of so many permutations. Hawthorns this season, 2-1 in the reasons. Bruised by last week’s Elsewhere, David Unsworth should be high when Crystal Pal- Kilmarnock sealed a 1-1 draw Against Real Madrid, Spurs League Cup, and return to find shambolic performance at Wem- leads Everton as caretaker man- ace entertain West Ham and, on at Ibrox following a dramatic played with a target man, Fern- Albion without a victory in eight bley, Klopp needs an immediate ager at Leicester City who, if they Sunday, Brighton & Hove Albion finish. ando Llorente; for Liverpool it matches and now up against response against a Huddersfield do not make a permanent face Southampton. Burnley host Jason Holt gave Rangers was the blistering pace of Son three of the league’s top four in team fresh from beating United appointment by Sunday, will Newcastle on Monday. a first half lead before Jamie MacDonald saved Daniel Candeia’s last minute penalty. Leipzig’s Swedish forward Emil Forsberg takes a corner Chris Burke then grabbed kick during the German football Cup DFB Pokal second Spain to join VAR an equaliser four minutes into stoppage time as Rangers round match against Bayern Munich in Leipzig eastern drop to fourth following Germany, on Wednesday night. Motherwell’s 1-0 win over revolution in 2018 Dundee. Much had been made of the test Celtic would face from Aberdeen, with only Madrid In Italy, for example, VAR has goal difference separating the AFP not drawn a line under talking sides before kick-off. points, but added to the And at a sold-out Pitto- he president of the Span- controversy. drie it was the home side who ish football federation “It will become like base- started the brightest as cap- Texpects La Liga to follow ball in the United States, we stay tain Graeme Shinnie twice Serie A and the Bundesliga by 10 hours at the stadium eating tested Hoops ‘keeper Craig introducing video assistant ref- peanuts,” joked Juventus coach Gordon with early long range eree (VAR) technology for the Massimiliano Allegri in a recent efforts. 2018-19 season. interview. However, Celtic hadn’t “For next season,” Juan Luis Legendary Italian goal- failed to find the net against Larrea told Spanish radio sta- keeper Gianluigi Buffon also Aberdeen in the league since tion Cadena SER when quizzed slammed VAR as “making the December 2001 and they kept on when VAR would be game ugly” for the frequency up that remarkable record as introduced. with which matches are dis- they scored with their first “That is our intention...tech- rupted to review decisions. attack of the game. Brewster shines as England nology is now coming into Larrea insisted that tests Dembele beat Kari Arna- football and you have to accept would be run in “over 70 son for pace and whipped a it.” matches” in Spain before the low ball across the six-yard The VAR system -- which system is formally box. It seemed to have evaded reach FIFA Under-17 final is used to review goals, red introduced. everyone until it reached cards, penalties and cases of La Liga is the only one of Tierney at the far post where Kolkata provided the crosses for the pack off their opponents and mistaken identity -- has been Europe’s top five leagues to not he smashed a wonderful shot AFP match winner. Brewster put make their fourth final. tested across the world in Aus- even have goal-line technology, in off the underside of the bar England ahead in the 10th The in-form Ruiz found the tralia, Brazil, France, Germany, with league president Javier from an acute angle. iverpool attacker minute despite an attacking net in the 19th minute via a Italy and the Netherlands. Tebas blaming the cost of intro- The goal seemed to ener- Rhian Brewster start by the Brazilians. penalty and then doubled the However, the results of the ducing the system across the 20 gise Celtic who began to scored a second hat- Brazil forward Wesley lead for the European cham- tests have not been unanimous. top-flight grounds. dominate possession with trick in two games snatched an equaliser in the pions in the 43rd minute. Australian midfielder Tom late on Wednesday 21st minute to set up a thrilling The Barcelona academy Rogic, restored to Celtic’s L night to dump Brazil out of the match in front of a near capac- product has six goals -- one starting XI, the main threat. Under-17 World Cup and send ity crowd. fewer than Brewster -- in the The Socceroos star was England into their first final, But Brewster made all the tournament and has been allowed to weave his way into where they will play Spain. running. He put England ahead linked to Arsenal and other the box with Joe Lewis doing European champions Spain in the 39th minute, becoming Premier League sides, as well well to palm his shot away rode a double strike from star the top goal scorer of the tour- as Juventus. before the midfielder sent a forward Abel Ruiz to beat a nament with his sixth strike. Ruiz already has a buyout low shot well wide after cut- spirited Mali side 3-1 in the sec- His seventh goal of the clause of three million euros ting in from the left. ond semi-final in Mumbai. event, which is being hosted on his contract and Barcelona Dembele showed Rogic Tomorrow’s finale in Kolk- by India for the first time, came reportedly want to increase how to do it a minute later as ata will be a re-run of the UEFA in the second half as it shut the that after the World Cup is he got on the end of Tierney’s European Under-17 Champi- doors on the three-time over. Ferran Torres also joined inch perfect cross from the onship in May, which saw champions. the Spanish party in the 71st left to tap home Celtic’s sec- Spain beat England on The 77th minute strike was minute to end matters for Mali, ond from close range. penalties. third time unlucky for Brazil who were earlier denied a goal Celtic started the second Brewster, who scored three goalkeeper Gabriel Brazao, by the referee after the ball half as they finished the first goals in the 4-1 quarter-final who had not let in a goal from struck the pole and landed with Rogic sliced an effort win over the United States, open play in the tournament inside the goal line. FIFA, the wide before Lewis made a stole the show in England’s 3-1 until the last-four clash. Brazil game’s world governing body, great save to deny James For- win over the South American forwards Paulinho and Lincoln has used goal-line technology rest with Arnason blocking giants in Kolkata. created some slick moves but in senior events but it was not the rebound from Callum “We are going to work hard bad luck and England goal- on offer at the U-17 World Cup. McGregoe on the goal line. and hopefully win (the tourna- keeper Curtis Anderson kept Mali striker Lassana It wasn’t long before the ment),” said Brewster after the the three-time champions at N’Diaye finished with six goals President of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) Hoops added to their advan- game. bay. in the tournament but his 74th- Praful Patel (left) and Tournament Director for the FIFA tage when Dedryck Boyata Brewster linked up bril- Spain’s star striker Ruiz minute strike was a mere Local Organising Committee Javier Ceppi shake hands headed Armstrong’s free-kick liantly with Manchester City had no such worries as he consolation for the African a press conference ahead of the final of the U-17 FIFA back across goal for Dembele midfielder Phil Foden who scored twice in the first half to champions. World Cup in Kolkata yesterday. to nod in from close range. SPORT

Friday 27 October 2017

PAGE | 21 PAGE | 22 PAGE | 23 Westbrook triple Ashes series: In-formIn Spurs aim to double sparks win over Australia’s hopefuls deliverdel knockout blow Indiana pad up for auditions to Man United Hasan stars as Pakistan down Stage set for feisty battle Sri Lanka in first Twenty20

Abu Dhabi as Al Sadd host Al Rayyan Agencies acer took Rizwan Rehmat a career best 3-23 The Peninsula as Pakistan over- came Sri Lanka by nbeaten Al Sadd will 7 in the be looking to con- Pfirst Twenty20 International solidate their in Abu Dhabi yesterday. position today when Pakistan after electing to they take on arch- field first, bowled out Sri Urivals Al Rayyan in the biggest Lanka to only 102 in 18.3 blockbuster match of the regu- overs, with Hasan picking up lar season. wickets of SS Pathirana, I Al Sadd, unbeaten in five Udana and JRMVB Sanjaya. QNB Stars League (QSL) matches Fast bowler Usman Shin- so far, host Al Rayyan for the new wari and Mohammed Hafeez season’s first ‘El Clasico’ battle grabbed two wickets apiece. at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. Debutant S Samarawick- Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Fer- rama (23) and S Prasanna (23) reira yesterday said his team will were the notable scorers for attempt to retain its winning Sri Lanka. form in what will be the sixth Pakistan endured a shaky match for both sides. start in reply to a small total, Al Rayyan, coached by losing wickets of opening Michael Laudrup, have lost one batsman Fakhar Zaman (6) match out of five. and Babar Azam (1) with just “This is an important match 18 runs on board. for us as we will strive to get However, seasoned three points from this clash,” Shoaib Malik played a Ferreira said yesterday. responsible knock of 42 runs “We have prepared with that from 31 deliveries to take in mind. The players don’t need Pakistan to target safely in Al Rayyan coach Michael Laudrup (right) and striker Abderrazak Hamdallah pose for a photograph ahead of a press conference any great motivational speech 17.2 overs. Malik’s innings from me as they know how big earlier this week. Right: Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferreira (left) and midfielder Miguel Pedro before a press conference yesterday. included four boundaries. this game is,” the veteran coach Opening batsman Ahmed added. Portuguese said. “My boys will players are ready to give their There are some outstanding already played seven games, Shehzad scored 22 while “This match has its own sig- have a very robust attitude of 100 percent.” players on both sides and it must including in the QSL Cup, and Hafeez chipped in with 25 nificance for football fans in the fighting until the end. That’s what He added: “We are looking be nice for the players to show- won six of them,” Laudrup said. runs from 23 balls. country. I am pretty certain there we intend to do,” Ferreira said. at three points.” case their skills and also for The match kicks off at The second game will be will be a big crowd (today),” the “I don’t think there is any Al Sadd will have the serv- others to watch them in action,” 7:30pm. played today at the same psychological pressure on Al ices of Barca legend and team said Laudrup. venue before both teams will Rayyan. They have a set team captain Xavi along with feared “From the league standings’ move to Lahore for the last with a very good coach. Theirs striker Hassan Al Haydos but key point of view too, this is an game on Sunday, which will is a stable bunch with quality player Khoukhi Boualem did not important match for us. We want culminate the series that also players,” the Al Sadd coach said take part in the group training to finish in the top four and play included two Tests and 5 My boys will have when asked about Al Rayyan’s on Wednesday, a post on the club in the AFC Champions League. We have a strong ODIs. lack of wins against Al Sadd in website said. We’ve to be really, really strong a very robust recent times. Boualem is still recovering on the field. If not, players like squad. Even if we BRIEF SCORES attitude of fighting When asked about tactics in from a calf muscle injury sus- Xavi, Baghdad (Bounedjah), change three or Sri Lanka 102 all out in 18.3 overs (S the clash today, Ferriera refused tained in the last game against Jugurtha Hamroun and Hassan until the end. to divulge his plans. Al Arabi. Al Rayyan coach Al Haidos will kill us. We should four main players, Samarawickrama 23, S Prasanna That’s what we He said: “It is too early to talk Laudrup on Wednesday said his be creating more opportunities the squad is still 23*, MD Gunathilaka, Hasan Ali intend to do: Al about tactics. We are in round team would be aiming to get a to score,” he added. stronger this 3-23, Usman Shinwari 2-20, M Ha- six and we have a task at hand.” win against the old rivals. Laudrup said his team was Sadd coach Al Sadd midfielder Miguel “Of course, it is a big game and up for the battle today. season: Al Rayyan feez 2-10) lost to Pakistan 103-3 Jesualdo Ferreira Pedro said: “There is no pressure a big date. We’re keen to take on “We’ve a strong squad. Even coach Laudrup in 17.2 overs (Ahmed Shehzad 22, on us. We are a strong side and Al Sadd mainly because we want if we change three or four main Shoaib Malik 42, Muhammad Ha-

with ability to attack at will. We to reverse the trend of defeats players, the squad is still stronger feez 25, JRMVB Sanjaya 2-20, SS

are focusing on how to win this against them in recent times.” this season. When the going is important game. Yes, it will be a “We must be playing at our good, things are smooth in the Pathirana 1-25) by seven wickets tough game for sure. But our best, with or without the ball. team camp as well. We’ve Al Duhail, Al Gharafa tie adds spice to Round 6 action

ayayayayayayay The Peninsula QSL FIXTURES Kharaitiyat in the previous round.” Al Kharaitiyat, Al Markhiya play out goalless draw “We’ll play this match with all our ven though the ‘Qatar Clasico’ Today might. If we can bring the best out of between Al Sadd and Al Rayyan 5:20pm: Umm Salal vs Al Khor at Al Gharafa us, we’ll surely get a positive result. Al Etoday hogs much limelight of the Stadium Duhail are one of the toughest teams QNB Stars League Round 6 action, 5:20pm: Al Ahli vs Al Arabi at Al Ahli Stadium and strong contenders for the league tomorrow’s Al Duhail and Al Gharafa 7:30pm: Al Sadd vs Al Rayyan at Al Sadd title. They’re playing consistently well encounter will draw the attention of too. I just wish we would be the first fans for more reasons than one. Stadium team to beat them,” he said. Both teams have quality players in Tomorrow The Slovak said he knew fully well their ranks. Al Duhail midfielder Luiz 5:20pm Qatar SC vs Al Sailiya at Al Duhail Sta- of Al Duhail’s intentions, having Martin Junior and Al Gharafa attacker dium donned their colours for two seasons.

Vladimir Weiss are two players capa- 7:30pm: Al Duhail vs Al Gharafa at Al Duhail “Al Duhail always target titles and play

ble of producing strong to win. However, I’m now fully focused Stadium performances. on the goals of my current team Al They spoke ahead of the game in Gharafa. I’ll try to do my best and help an exclusive interview with QSL Al Gharafa can prove a big block. We’ll them win matches,” said Weiss. Online. respect our opponents and stay focused.” He rated Youssef Msakny as the Luiz Martin said, “Our games against Meanwhile, Weiss reflected on the best player in Al Duhail ranks. Al Gharafa are always strong and excit- game against Al Duhail. “Msakny is a very talented player. Al Markhiya’s Kwame Amponsah Karikari (right) and Al Kharaitiyat’s M ing. They’re a good team with reputed “We’re facing the best team in the He’s having an amazing season, with Abdulraab vie for the ball during their QSL match at Al Arabi Stadium players. This time, we’re going into the league. They’ve won all five games his club and country. He scores crucial yesterday. The match ended in 0-0 draw. Pic: Salim Matramkot/The Peninsula game on the back of a five-match win- whereas we’ll have to make a strong goals. Al Duhail have other quality ning streak. We start as favourites, but comeback after our defeat to Al players too,” said the forward.