Ferreira, Tae-Hee Win Top Honours by Sports Reporter Assists Helping Lekhwiya Win Their ﬁ Fth a Standout ﬁ Rst Season with the Red Doha QSL Title in Seven Seasons

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Sunday, May 21, 2017 FOOTBALL Sha’baan 25, 1438 AH Wenger looks for GULF TIMES salvation as top four race reaches climax SPORT Page 3 QFA AWARDS Ferreira, Tae-Hee win top honours By Sports Reporter assists helping Lekhwiya win their fi fth a standout fi rst season with the Red Doha QSL title in seven seasons. While Sadd Knights, bagging 24 goals in just 18 ap- missed out on the player award, their pearances for the side. coach Ferreira won the top honours El Arabi’s goalscoring feats are more ekhwiya mid-fi elder Nam Tae- among the coaches. The 70-year-old impressive considering that he trav- Hee and Al Sadd coach Jesualdo beat Lekhwiya’s Djamel Belmadi and El elled to Gabon to represent Morocco Ferreira won top honours at the Jaish’s Sabri Lamouchi to the crown. at the AFCON tournament in January. annual Qatar Football Associa- The veteran Portuguese coach has Despite missing four weeks of action, tionL awards held yesterday at the Qatar enjoyed considerable success in his the striker stuck seven further goals, to National Convention Centre. Lekhwiya fi rst full season with the Wolves, fi n- seal his status as top scorer along with raked in two more awards yesterday ishing second in the QSL standings just helping Lekhwiya lift the QSL falcon with their striker Yusef El Arabi win- behind champions Lekhwiya. Whilst in shied. ning the Mansour Muftah award for the Cup competitions Ferreira has ex- Lekhwiya won another honour when scoring the most number of goals this celled, guiding Sadd to their fi rst ever Almoez Ali was crowned the best U23 season and Almoez Ali being declared success in the Qatar Cup defeating El player yesterday. The 21-year-old the best U23 player. Jaish 2-1 and also masterminding a 2-1 winger picked up the award beating Al The event was held in the pres- victory over Al Rayyan to win the pres- Gharafa goalkeeper Yusef Hassan and ence of QFA president Sheikh Hamad tigious Emir Cup trophy. Al Sadd midfi elder Salem al-Hajri to bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Thani along Ferriera oversaw an impressive 13 the crown. with a host of other football offi cials game undefeated streak in the league, Amongst the other awards, Shell from Qatar. South Korean international as Al Sadd set the early pace in the won the Football for All award for their Tae-Hee edged out Sadd duo of Hassan QSL. Under Ferriera, Al Sadd enjoyed a Koora time initiative which encourages al-Haydos and Xavi Hernandez to take memorable season of free fl owing foot- children in Qatar to play football. home the top award from the event. ball with plenty of goals. There was also a best referee award The Lekhwiya number ten has per- Lekhwiya striker El Arabi was a de- for the fi rst time and that was won haps enjoyed his fi nest ever season serving winner of the Mansour Muf- jointly by the trio of Abdul Rahman with the Red Knights, notching up tah award for the top scorer of the QSL Ibrahim al-Jassim, Talib al-Marri, and QFA president Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Thani (right) with the winners of the QFA awards at the Qatar fourteen goals. He also registered nine season. The Moroccan striker enjoyed Saoud Ahmed Saoud al-Makalih. National Convention Centre yesterday. PICTURE: Shemeer Rasheed Gulf Times 2 Sunday, May 21, 2017 FOOTBALL

AND THE AWARD GOES TO...

Assistant secretary general for tournament aff airs with SC Nasser al-Khater (R) hands over the ‘Football for All’ award.

Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferreira (L) reacts after receiving the Coach of the Year award during the QFA Lekhwiya striker Yusef El Arabi (L) receiving the Mansour Muftah awards ceremony held at the Qatar National Convention Centre yesterday. PICS: Shemeer Rasheed award as the top scorer for the 2016/2017 QSL season.

(L-R) Player of the Year nominees Sadd’s Hassan al-Haydous, Lekhwiya’s Nam Tae-Hee and Sadd QFA president Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Thani (R) along Lekhwiya striker Almoez Ali (L) receives the QFA U23 Player of the Year skipper Xavi Hernandez sit together yesterday. Tae-Hee won the award. with other dignitaries during the awards ceremony yesterday. award from Qatar U23 coach Felix Sanchez yesterday.

SPOTLIGHT Al Sadd was born as a giant, Al Sadd founding father HE Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah spoke about his great delight after his says al-Attiyah football team won the Emir Cup for the 16th time

Agencies fi rst title at the fi rst completed stadium Doha of the 2022 World Cup, HE al-Attiyah said: “History repeats itself because Al Sadd were the team who won the fi rst l Sadd founding father HE fi nal at the Khalifa Stadium, defeating Abdullah bin Hamad al-Atti- Al Rayyan 1-0. This achievement with yah spoke of his great delight the fi rst title win at the new refurbished Aafter the football team won stadium shows that Al Sadd is the past, the Emir Cup for the 16th time, with present and future. Al Sadd writes his- a 2-1 win over Al Rayyan at the Khalifa tory. Winning the 67th title means that International Stadium. Al Sadd are the leaders when it comes to Speaking after the match, HE al- records and statistics. I don’t think any Attiyah said: “Al Sadd have proved that other club can reach these numbers that it truly is the leader of Qatari football. Al Sadd have achieved.” The team deserved to win the treble HE al-Attiyah also spoke about the this season but it could only achieve a Khalifa Stadium: “The match was double after strangely missing out on great and shows the true picture of Qa- the League title. But this is football. We tar’s readiness to host the World Cup. are now the League runners-up and This excellent organisation of the fi nal champions of the Qatar Cup and the match is a message to the world, prov- Emir Cup; this is a new achievement ing that Qatar is capable of hosting not and a new title is going to adorn our just the World Cup in 2022, but any trophy cabinet. This is a reaffi rmation world event, be it the Olympics or any- of Al Sadd’s status as a giant. Al Sadd thing else. Qatar has shown that it is was born as a giant and will remain so.” the sporting capital of the Arab world.” He added: “I want to congratulate myself, the fans, club president HH SADD CHAIRMAN DELIGHTED Sheikh Mohammed, vice president WITH WIN Nasser al-Ali and the management Chairman of Al Sadd HH Sheikh Mo- led by head of football Mohammed hammed bin Khalifa al-Thani prom- Ghanem al-Ali. Special thanks go out ised Sadd fans with more surprises in to all the Al Sadd fans who supported terms of player signings with major the club throughout the season and in stars on par with Raul Gonzalez and all the matches, they were the prime Xavi Hernandez. His Highness noted pillar of support for the team. They that the return to the AFC Champions were behind the team’s comeback in League’s group stage was great news the fi nal after trailing by a goal. The for the club. He expressed hope that players, with the support of the fans, the club gives its best performance in managed to get the equalizer and then the competition next season, given the winning goal. They achieved the the experience they have playing it. He title and showed that Al Sadd is always stressed that the club will work togeth- diffi cult to beat.” er to keep winning next season and ex- As for the achievement of winning the pressed satisfaction with the performance and results this season.

SADD DESERVES TO WIN THE EMIR CUP: AL-HAYDOUS Sadd star Hassan al-Haydous had expressed his happiness after the Emir Cup title triumph. He said: “I am very happy to win this prestigious title and Al-Sadd founding father HE Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah (third left) poses the Emir Cup and the Qatar Cup trophies during a felicitation ceremony at Al Sadd Club winning this title means that we end yesterday. PICS: Othman Iraqi the season in the best manner.” Al-Haydos added: “Al Sadd showed WE NOW AIM TO WIN THE LEAGUE fi cult, as Al-Rayyan are a strong op- ning goal gave the Wolves a 2-1 win are the main support behind the team,” an excellent level of play against Al NEXT SEASON: FERREIRA ponent and play with the desire to over Al Rayyan in the Emir Cup fi nal. he added. Rayyan, who also played an intense Sadd head coach Jesualdo Ferreira win. However, our players managed “I delivered on my promise to my- The Algerian also said: “I scored fi ve game but we managed to come out as was a very happy man after his side to clinch the match before it went to self, which was to score a goal in the goals against Al Rayyan this season but winners in the end.” clinched the Emir Cup title. penalties, just as I wanted. The play- fi nal against Al Rayyan. Although the I consider this goal that I scored in the “We dedicate the win to our fans and Ferreira expressed his gratitude to ers performed excellently and worked normal time was over and we were into fi nal as the most important because it we would like to thank them for sup- all the fans, management and play- hard for this win, which was the reason additional time, I was confi dent that I gave my team a very important title. porting us and attending the game in ers of the club for all the support and for our crowning.” would score in this important clash,” We were in real need of this title. Al- huge numbers at the Khalifa Stadium. efforts throughout the season, which said Jugurtha after the match. though we wasted many chances in the I am very happy to score in the fi nal saw the team lift the Qatar Cup and I DELIVERED ON MY PROMISE TO “I dedicate this win to our loyal fi rst half, we were not worried.” and help my team to victory. This will the Emir Cup. SCORE IN THE FINAL: JUGURTHA fans who supported us and came to “This shows that Al Sadd are a big now return us to the AFC Champions The coach described the match as Al Sadd winger Hamroun Jugurtha the match believing in our abilities. I team and plays until the very end with- League once again,” said al-Haydos. “diffi cult”, saying: “The fi nal was dif- spoke of his great delight after his win- thank them for their attendance; they out giving up.” Gulf Times Sunday, May 21, 2017 3 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Axed Allardyce reveals England hurt

AFP even had the opportunity to get a better to wait until I saw him, London game under my belt there. That face to face. But I haven’t seen would have been a big moment him yet.” for me. It was a gut-wrencher Just three months after losing am Allardyce says he that.” the England job, Allardyce was could not bear watch- The England job was the pin- back in football with Palace after ing England play even on nacle of a long career in manage- being encouraged to return by television after he lost his ment that saw Allardyce previ- former Manchester United man- jobS as manager of the national ously take charge of Bolton, ager Alex Ferguson, a longstand- side following a newspaper sting. West Ham, Newcastle and ing friend. Now in charge at Premier Sunderland. “Fergie invited me to a game,” League Crystal Palace, Allardyce “I wasn’t just proud to be the Allardyce recalled. “He told me lasted just 67 days and one match England manager, I was ready,” to get up and get back out there. as England boss. said Allardyce. He’s a man of great wisdom. The The 62-year-old, who by his Allardyce, who at the time of more people like that support own admission acted like an “id- his departure said he had been you, the quicker you recover. iot”, left his dream job just a fort- victim of “entrapment” by The “The only thing I could do to night before what would have Daily Telegraph newspaper, add- help myself was jump back into been his ﬁ rst home match as ed yesterday he regretted mock- the game. I needed to do it for England manager, against Malta ing England predecessor Roy my own rehabilitation,” said Al- at Wembley in October. Hodgson’s speech impediment lardyce, who helped Palace avoid He tried to watch on televi- in his ﬁ lmed meetings with un- relegation this season. sion but found the experience dercover reporters. “It was the only way I could too painful, telling The Times “That was embarrassing for try to put what had happened and Daily Mail yesterday: “I me. No doubt about that,” Al- with England behind me. maybe lasted 15, 20 minutes. But lardyce said. “Otherwise I’d have been I couldn’t continue. I had to turn “I haven’t spoken to Roy. I pondering too much. It would it off and watch something else. made a decision not to call him still be playing on my mind, sim- Crystal Palace’s English manager Sam Allardyce gestures on the touchline during the English Premier League match against Hull City at Sel- “It was Wembley and I hadn’t because I thought it would be mering, seething.” hurst Park in south London on May 14, 2017. (AFP)

EPL FOCUS Captain Brown the heart behind Celtic Wenger looks for dominance: Rodgers

AFP performance levels on the fi eld Glasgow have been absolutely sensa- tional, in how he has led the team and he has been a real eltic manager Brendan catalyst on the football idea we salvation as top four Rodgers says captain have tried to impose on to the Scott Brown’s leader- team.” ship on the pitch has Victory in next week’s Scot- beenC the catalyst behind his tish Cup fi nal would see Brown side’s remarkable season with join the select group of Celtic more records perhaps set to fall. captains to have skippered The champions are looking them to a domestic treble. to become the fi rst team to end “It would be very deserving,” race reaches climax a 38-game Scottish Premier- Rodgers added. ship campaign unbeaten and “For a boy like that who has will break the league points been here for 10 years now and ‘I think what is the most important for us is to win the football game we play today’ record if they avoid defeat in to have won all the trophies he Sunday’s season fi nale against has, it would bring a great cli- Hearts. max for him, and it would be Rodgers’s side have fi red in very fi tting of a captain of his 104 league goals in their all- quality to do that.” conquering season — just one Rangers fans will be glad to short of the record 105 they see the end of what has been a amassed in 2003-04 and a disappointing fi rst season back win against Hearts would also in the Scottish top fl ight. see them set a new record for Rangers, who round off a number of league wins in a dispiriting campaign at St campaign. Johnstone today, were knocked Brown, who will collect the out of both cup competitions Scottish Premiership trophy by Celtic and will fi nish the for the seventh time in his 10- season in third spot behind year Celtic career after the their Old Firm rivals and sec- match today, has been in inspi- ond place Aberdeen. rational form this season and However, Portuguese man- his manager praised his contri- ager Pedro Caixinha, who bution to the club. joined the club in March, is “He has been inspirational confi dent his side are moving this year. I can’t fault him in in the right direction and will any aspect of his performance be genuine trophy contenders levels,” Rodgers said. next season. “As a manager it’s very im- “Rangers will always look to portant you have that chem- be the best team in the country. istry between you and your Rangers want to be big again captain, and it was pretty clear and that’s what we are working early on when I met him that on,” the 46-year-old said. he was top-class in his outlook and what he wanted to achieve. Fixtures “From fi rst meeting him, Sunday (1130GMT) right the way through this sea- Celtic v Hearts, Partick Thistle son he hasn’t let up. v Aberdeen, St Johnstone v “Importantly, for me, his Rangers

Icardi in, Aguero out for Argentina

Lionel Messi will spearhead top four earning automatic Argentina’s attack against arch- places in Russia. In addition to rivals Brazil next month but the absence of Aguero, there there was no place in the squad is also no place in the squad for Manchester City striker for Ezequiel Lavezzi, the for- Arsenal’s French manager Arsene Wenger during the English Premier League match against Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium in London. (AFP) Sergio Aguero. Inter Milan ward who last year swapped forward Mauro Icardi replaces PSG for Chinese Super League AFP With the title race settled in Reports suggest Wenger is and Arsenal improve their goal “It is important for players Aguero in a squad believed to side Hebei China Fortune. London Chelsea’s favour, Tottenham planning to stay and if that is the diff erence by at least fi ve in the because that is what they want have been chosen by Jorge Squad guaranteed to fi nish second and case the 67-year-old could do process of beating Everton. to play in. We will be successful Sampaoli, the Sevilla coach Goalkeepers: Nahuel Guz- the three relegation places fi lled with boosting his plunging ap- Calling for one last push after in the future but for this we need who is poised to take over Ar- man (Tigres/MEX), Sergio rsene Wenger will be by Sunderland, Middlesbrough proval ratings by somehow gate- an underwhelming fi rst season the players, of course. We have gentina in a bid to rescue their Romero (Manchester United/ praying for an unex- and Hull, it is the battle for the crashing the Champions League in charge, City boss Pep Guar- very good players and we need a World Cup hopes. Playmaker ENG), Geronimo Rulli (Real pected slip from Liv- lucrative remaining two places party. Asked on Friday if the Ever- diola said: “We still have 95, 96 few more.” Manuel Lanzini, who has en- Sociedad/ESP). Defenders: erpool or Manchester in Europe’s elite club competi- ton clash will be his last game in minutes to fi ght to do one thing Already certain to fi nish sixth, joyed a good season for West Emanuel Mammana (Lyon/ CityA as Arsenal try to salvage tion that will command the at- charge of Arsenal at the Emirates, that’s so important for the club Manchester United will send out Ham in the Premier League, FRA), Nicolas Otamendi their traumatic Premier League tention today. he gave a sarcastic response. and the future. a team largely comprised of youth gets his first international (Manchester City/ENG), campaign by snatching a Cham- Despite winning six of their “Of the season...yes,” he said. “It’s a crucial game for us. It’s team players as boss Jose Mour- call-up. Before they get back to Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla/ pions League berth in Sunday’s last seven games, Arsenal are “I think what is the most impor- a fi nal. Every game has pressure, inho keeps his senior stars fresh the business of qualifying for ESP), Javier Mascherano season fi nale. in fi fth place, one point behind tant for us is to win the football but it’s in our hands. It doesn’t for next week’s Europa League Russia 2018 in August, Messi (Barcelona/ESP). Midfield- Rocked by Arsenal’s failure to fourth placed Liverpool and game we play today. depend on Arsenal or Liverpool. fi nal against Ajax. If United win and Argentina play Brazil in a ers: Lucas Biglia (Lazio/ live up to his expectations and three adrift of third placed City. “After that, what happens to It depends on us. We have to go the Europa League they will June 9 friendly in Melbourne in ITA), Ever Banega (Inter/ITA), battered by mounting criticism If Liverpool beat relegated me is less important. I’m here to there and win the game.” claim a place in the Champions what is likely to be Sampaoli’s Angel Di Maria (Paris SG/ from furious fans, Wenger has Middlesbrough at Anfi eld and serve the club and the best way to Liverpool will compete in the League, giving Mourinho the last first game in charge of his FRA), Eduardo Salvio (Ben- been under fi re like never before City avoid defeat at struggling do that is to win the next game.” Champions League for the fi rst laugh while his old rival Wenger country. Four days later Argen- fica/POR), Guido Rodriguez in his 21-year reign — and the Watford, then, even if Arsenal Meanwhile, a fourth suc- time since 2014-15, and only faces a troubled future. tina travel to Singapore for a (Tijuana/MEX), Leandro Pare- lowest moment of all is likely to win, Wenger’s side will be con- cessive City victory will see the second time in eight years, friendly against the city-state. des (AS Roma/ITA), Manuel come at the Emirates Stadium signed to the indignity of Thurs- them hold on to third place and as long as they match Arsenal’s Fixtures (all 1400 GMT) Barcelona star Messi had a Lanzini (West Ham/ENG). this weekend. day nights in the unglamourous go straight into next season’s result. Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is Arsenal v Everton, Burnley v four-game ban from competi- Attackers: Joaquin Correa As if fi nishing below arch ri- Europa League next term. Champions League, while a draw well aware the subsequent boost West Ham, Chelsea v Sunder- tive internationals for swear- (Sevilla/ESP), Lionel Messi vals Tottenham for the fi rst time Having refused to confi rm if would also be enough to ensure a to Liverpool’s profi le would be land, Hull v Tottenham, Leicester ing at an assistant referee (Barcelona/ESP), Gonzalo in 22 years wasn’t bad enough, he will accept Arsenal’s off er of a top four fi nish. a major help in signing his top v Bournemouth, Liverpool v lifted earlier this month, giving Higuaín (Juventus/ITA), Wenger’s bid to lead Arsenal new contract, Wenger this week transfer targets. Middlesbrough, Manchester a major boost to Argentina’s Paulo Dybala (Juventus/ITA), into the Champions League for a said his will be settled when he ‘In our hands’ “The Champions League, for United v Crystal Palace, South- foundering World Cup hopes. Alejandro Gomez (Atalanta/ 20th successive season is in grave meets the club’s powerbrokers However, City could still miss diff erent reasons, is a wonderful ampton v Stoke, Swansea v West They are fifth in qualifying in ITA), Mauro Icardi (Inter danger heading into their last after the Gunners’ FA Cup fi nal out altogether if they lose, Liv- competition. It would be the ic- Brom, Watford v Manchester South America, with only the Milan/ITA). league game against Everton. date with Chelsea on May 27. erpool defeat Middlesbrough ing on the cake,” Klopp said. City. Gulf Times 4 Sunday, May 21, 2017 FOOTBALL

BUNDESLIGA Late Aubemayang penalty sends Dortmund into CL Forward becomes top-scorer after netting twice Ancelotti hails retiring Lahm, Alonso

AFP Berlin

ierre-Emerick Aubam- eyang scored twice in Borussia Dortmund’s 4-3 win over Werder PBremen yesterday to fi nish as the Bundesliga’s top-scorer and seal his side’s direct Champions League place on a dramatic fi nal day of the season. Aubameyang fi nished with 31 goals, one more than Bayern Mu- nich’s Robert Lewandowski, who failed to score in the champions’ 4-1 home win over Freiburg. There was drama at the bot- tom of the table as Hamburg guaranteed their survival with an 88th-minute goal to seal a 2-1 win over Wolfsburg. Two minutes after coming on, Luca Waldschmidt’s header, the day after his 21st birthday, sealed Hamburg’s win which lifted them to 14th and dropped Wolfsburg to 16th. With Darm- stadt and Ingolstadt already relegated, the 2009 German champions, now face a two-legged relegation play-off to stay up. In Munich, Bayern were hand- ed the Bundesliga trophy for the fi fth season in a row, extending the record for most wins, and fi nished with a 15-point margin. Bayern farewelled Philipp Lahm and Xabi Alonso, both Dortmund’s Gabonese forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang lifts the World Cup winners, who are re- trophy as the Bundesliga’s top-scorer after the match against Werder tiring after glorious careers. Bremen in Dortmund yesterday. (AFP) Bayern Munich’s players including defender Philipp Lahm celebrate with the trophy after the Bundesliga match against SC Freiburg, his It was the eighth time Lahm last match for the club. (AFP) has won the Bundesliga, his penalties to seal Borussia’s Bremen’s third goal on 68 min- fi fth as captain, putting him comeback win. utes. But Reus slotted home a Bayern Munich’s head coach proved he is going out at the ons yesterday. hmet Scholl and Rummenigge equal with Bayern legends Oliver Dortmund defender Marc 75th-minute penalty to equal- Carlo Ancelotti admitted it will top after his superb diagonal The 33-year-old full-back Lahm himself in the elite group. Kahn, Bastian Schweinsteiger Bartra made his fi rst appearance ise before Aubameyang drilled be tough to replace Philipp pass set up Arjen Robben for is the first to receive the honour “There are mixed feelings, I and Mehmet Scholl. since fracturing his right wrist in home Dortmund’s second spot Lahm and Xabi Alonso after the opening goal. since Oliver Kahn in 2008. In a must say,” said Lahm. Arjen Robben got the party the April 11 bomb attack on the kick to take the Golden Cannon the pair played their final game “It was an emotional day for glittering career, he won eight “This is very emotional today. started in Munich by giving the Borussia team bus. as the Bundesliga’s top scorer. before retiring. Xabi Alonso and for Philipp Bundesliga titles, six German I have experienced so much hosts the lead after just four Werder took the lead when The win means Dortmund fi n- Lahm, 33, and Alonso, 35, hung Lahm,” said Ancelotti, who Cups and a Champions League here,” he added, having joined minutes when he slotted home Zlatko Junuzovic stabbed home ish third while Hoff enheim, who up their boots after yesterday’s has now won league titles as a in addition to the 2014 World Bayern as an 11-year-old. Alonso’s superb diagonal pass. from close range, but Reus were held to a goalless draw at 4-1 win over Freiburg as Bayern coach in Germany, Italy, Eng- Cup. “My friends and family are there Bayern doubled their lead equalised with half an hour gone. home to Augsburg, end up fourth celebrated lifting the German land and France. “Philipp Lahm is one of the and it was the last time. when Arturo Vidal’s curling shot Aubameyang scored his 30th to secure a Champions League league trophy for the fifth sea- “I want to thank both players, most deserving players [of the “It was my life to be here on the beat the Freiburg goalkeeper on league goal — arguably his best play-off place. son in a row. they have played a fantastic induction] in the recent history pitch and today it was the last 73 minutes. this season — with a superb vol- Second-placed RB Leipzig The German giants ended up season in fantastic careers, but of Bayern,” club chairman Karl- time in this community - I’ve Ex-Bayern striker Nils Pe- ley from a deft chip to Ousmane fi nished their fi rst season in 15 points clear in Ancelotti’s now we have to look forward Heinz Rummenigge said. always seen football as a big tersen came on to claim Dembele over the Bremen de- Germany’s top-fl ight with a 2-2 first season since replacing Pep and try to find good replace- “Both on the pitch and with community. Freiburg’s consolation on 76 fence on 42 minutes. draw against Eintracht Frankfurt Guardiola. Germany’s World ments.” his role as captain, he was an “You pursue goals with the fans minutes and set a new record However, less than a minute with goals by Marcel Sabitzer Cup-winning captain Lahm Goalscorer Robben raised his incredibly important person in and with all your team-mates. I of 19 Bundesliga goals off the into the second half, Fin Bar- and Yussuf Poulsen. played his 517th and final game arms in triumph when he won the club. will miss that later.” bench. Franck Ribery and Joshua tels slammed home after a great Emil Forsberg set up Poulsen in the Bayern shirt, lifting the the race to greet Ancelotti. “He deserves this award which Lahm has turned down Bayern’s Kimmich scored injury-time run from Max Kruse to make for RB’s second to claim his 22nd Bundesliga shield for a record- “I’m still alive. It was funny,” puts him on on the same level sports director role and says goals to seal Bayern’s win. the score 2-2. Despite his mid- assist of the season. equalling eighth time. joked Ancelotti. as the real greats of Bayern.” he will decide his future after There was drama in Dort- week snub for the Confedera- It broke Kevin de Bruyne’s Alonso, a 2010 World Cup Bayern will induct retiring cap- Lahm joins the likes of Franz spending time with this family mund’s seven-goal thriller as tions Cup, Kruse showed Ger- record of 21 set in the 2014/15 winner, as well as Euro 2008 tain Lahm into the club hall of Beckenbauer, Gerd Mueller, Uli as his wife is expecting their Marco Reus and Aubameyang many coach Joachim Loew what season at Wolfsburg before he and 2012 champion with Spain, fame, the Bundesliga champi- Hoeness, Lothar Matthaeus, Me- second child. both converted second-half he is missing by chipping home left to join Manchester City.

LA LIGA Zidane hails ‘spectacular’ squad as Real close in on title

Reuters Zidane has done an extraordi- Camp Nou hurrah not goodbye for Enrique Madrid nary job himself. His careful management of the squad has also seen Luis Enrique promised to return to the Camp Nou as a fan next them sail into Champions League season as he prepares to take charge of Barcelona for the final time inedine Zidane hailed fi nal against Juventus on June 3 at home today against Eibar. Real Madrid’s remarkable with the chance of becoming the Barca need to win and hope Real Madrid lose at Malaga to claim a strength in depth as the key fi rst team to successfully defend the third straight title under Enrique, who announced back in March he to his side entering their fi - European Cup since AC Milan in would not continue as coach for next season. Znal game of the season at Malaga on 1990. However, he claimed to have been “privileged” to have been in the the brink of lifting their fi rst La Liga “When you have 60 game per role for three seasons. “It will be a special night for me as it is the last title since 2012. season it’s very diffi cult on a physi- league match as Barca coach,” Enrique said yesterday. The French manager described cal level, but we’ve got to this stage “When I accepted the job I knew it would be short-lived, no matter his squad as “spectacular” on Sat- with our spirits high and we’re fl y- how much time I ws here. urday as he looked forward to the ing physically,” Zidane said. “Barca’s history is full of moments like this. People come and go. prospect of them earning the point “The players kept believing, “I am very proud to have formed part of that history. I am a privi- that will earn the European cham- we’ve all done our job, but what the leged one and next season I will be at the Camp Nou for many pions a 33rd Spanish title. players have done is fantastic. Every games as a fan. “It is not a goodbye, but a see you later.” The French coach has repeatedly time someone has come onto the Today will not be Enrique’s last game in charge, though, as Barca rotated his side throughout the sea- pitch they’ve made a diff erence and can win the ninth trophy of his tenure in the Copa del Rey final next son, with 21 players making 10 or that’s the best thing.” weekend against Alaves. more starts in the league, yet the Real are on course for a third frequent changes have rarely im- Champions League triumph in the pacted results, leading Real to pick last four years but they have strug- up 90 points from their 37 games. gled to match their European suc- They lead double champions cess on the domestic stage, winning Barcelona by three points and will just two of the last nine La Liga ti- seal their expected triumph on tles while Barcelona have won six. Sunday if they avoid defeat to Ma- Zidane, however, believes his side laga, who have nothing at stake al- will be worthy champions if they though they have won four of their can clinch the title tomorrow. last six games. “You have to show every day that “I think that’s the most important you want to win the league, we’ve thing, that every player has contrib- worked so hard and we deserve to uted,” Zidane told a news confer- be in the position we’re in. We’re ence ahead of the trip to Malaga. top and now we have to fi nish what “As I said on the fi rst day, this we’re doing,” he said. squad is spectacular and the key “The game (at Malaga) will be our has been getting every player to feel hardest. We had diffi culties against that they are important. Sevilla and Celta (Real beat both Barcelona’s coach Luis Enrique during a training session in Sant “The players who have played sides 4-1) but with a lot of con- Joan Despi, near Barcelona, on the eve of their last La Liga match less have done just as well as the centration you can achieve great Real Madrid’s coach Zinedine Zidane during a training session at Valdebebas Sport City in Madrid on against vs SD Eibar. (AFP) rest.” things.” the eve of their last Liga match against Malaga. (AFP) Gulf Times Sunday, May 21, 2017 5 SPORT

TENNIS Zverev becomes youngest Masters fi nalist in 10 years French Open champion Muguruza was forced to retire due to a neck injury from her semi-final against Svitolina

AFP Rome

ermany’s Alexander Zverev became the youngest player in a decade to reach a Masters fi nal when he clinched a gutsy 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-1 win over big-serv- Ging American John Isner in Rome yesterday. Zverev, 20, will meet four-time winner Novak Djokovic, who overcame having to play twice in a day with a ruthless 6-1, 6-0 win over Dominic Thiem. Djokovic, the former World No.1 , was forced to fi nish his quarter-fi nal victory over Juan Mar- tin del Potro earlier in the day after their match was rained off late on Friday. But the setback seemed only to inspire the Serbian second seed, as he set up what is expected to be a mouthwa- tering fi nal, and fi rst meeting, with Zverev. Djokovic was the previous youngest Masters fi nalist, going all the way to the title in Miami as a 19-year-old in 2007. Zverev will climb to a new career high in the rankings at number 14 by reaching the fi nal and would break into the top 10 with the title. “I don’t look at these kind of stats, who is the youngest player to have a Masters 1000 title or things like this. I try to play match by match and try to improve,” said Zverev, who fi red 12 aces and 41 winners past the 32-year-old Isner. Thiem, beaten to the Madrid Masters title by Rafael Nadal last week, avenged his loss Alexander Zverev of Germany returns en route to by dumping Spain’s former seven-time Rome his win over John Isner of USA in the semi-finals of champion out in the quarters on Friday. Djoko- the Rome Masters yesterday. (AFP) vic had taken a one-set lead over Del Potro, who held a 2-1 lead in the second set before heavy rain and lightning halted play on Friday. In the WTA event, French Open champion Garbine Muguruza was forced to retire due to a neck injury from her semi-fi nal against Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina. The Spanish third seed Venus Williams in the quarter-fi nals on Friday you do before the tournaments gives you confi - fi rst set, with Bertens having her chances and RESULTS was 1-4 down after just 22 minutes in the fi rst night. “I didn’t want to leave Rome without try- dence that you are ready to go. saving fi ve set points to hold serve and take it to Men: Semi-finals: Alexander Zverev (GER) bt John set when she quit, handing the eighth-seeded ing to play,” said Muguruza. Sometimes just winning some matches, tough 4-5 before then breaking Halep, the Romanian Isner (USA) 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-1; Novak Djokovic (SRB Svitolina a place in today’s fi nal against Roma- Sixth-seeded Halep, the champion in Madrid ones, even if in three sets, those are the most broke back and served out cleanly. x2) bt Dominic Thiem (AUT x8) 6-1, 6-0 nia’s Simona Halep. It was her fourth retirement last weekend, reached her fi rst fi nal in Rome af- important matches.” The Romanian, a winner She then romped to a 4-0 lead in the second Quarter-finals: Djokovic bt Juan Martín Del Potro of the season after Miami, Brisbane and Dubai. ter sweeping aside Dutchwoman Kiki Bertens in Madrid last weekend for the second year in a set before Bertens held serve. But there was no (ARG) 6-1, 6-4 Svitolina will chase a fourth title of the year 7-5, 6-1 in her semi-fi nal. “Sometimes a win row, made sure of her fi rst Rome fi nal in an hour holding off Halep, who made only one unforced Women: Semi-finals: Simona Halep (ROM x6) bt after trophy triumphs in Taiwan, Dubai and Is- over a top player gives you confi dence,” Halep and 17 minutes, with the start delayed by half an error in the set and wrapped up the victory as Kiki Bertens (NED x15) 7-5, 6-1; Elina Svitolina (UKR tanbul. Muguruza had needed three sets to beat said after her semi-fi nal. “Sometimes the work hour due to overnight rain. After a hard-fought the skies opened again. x8) bt Garbine Muguruza (ESP x3) 4-1 retired

CYCLING BOXING Dumoulin denies Quintana to N’Dam takes WBA title with win Giro d’Italia 14th stage points victory over Murata AFP sive lead, Dumoulin sat in the saddle driving (COL/MOV) 2min 47sec, 3. Thibaut Pinot (FRA/ Oropa, Italy a four-man chase group whose persistence FDJ) 3:25, 4. Vincenzo Nibali (ITA/BAH) 3:40, 5. eventually reeled Quintana in with two kilo- Ilnur Zakarin (RUS/KAT) 4:24, 6. Bauke Mollema metres to go. (NED/TRA) 4:32, 7. Tanel Kangert (EST/AST) 4:55, utchman Tom Dumoulin further By then, the road had levelled out and the 8. Domenico Pozzovivo (ITA/ALM) 4:59, 9. Bob underlined his Giro d’Italia victory Dutchman fi nally got out the saddle to over- Jungels (LUX/QST) 5:28, 10. Andrey Amador ambitions by stunning Colombian take Quintana on his way to his second vic- (CRC/MOV) 5:36 rival Nairo Quintana to claim victory of this year’s race and third overall. The toryD on yesterday’s 14th stage. bonus seconds on off er at the finish meant KIWI BENNETT RIDES INTO YELLOW “This is really incredible. I’m super, super Dumoulin, who has rejected comparisons JERSEY AT TOUR OF CALIFORNIA happy,” said Dumoulin, who attacked his Mo- to former fi ve-time Tour de France winner Britain’s Jonathan Dibben won the sixth stage vistar rival inside the fi nal two kilometres of Miguel Indurain, increased his lead on Quin- of the Tour of California in Big Bear Lake yes- an 11.8km climb to the summit fi nish at Oropa tana to 2:47. French contender Thibaut Pinot terday while Kiwi George Bennett took over to take his overall lead over the Colombian to (FDJ) fi nished 35sec in arrears in fi fth, with the yellow jersey with surprising time trial 2min 47sec. Italy’s two-time and defending champion performance on Friday. Dumoulin, who has never won a three- Vincenzo Nibali trailing home 43sec behind. The 27-year-old Bennett is considered a week grand tour, had pushed 2014 champion After a collapse by Dutchman Bauke Mol- climbing specialist so his blazing time trial Quintana down to second overall at 2min lema (Trek), Pinot moved up to third overall ride through the San Bernardino National 23sec following a crushing win in the 10th at 3:25, with Nibali fourth at 3:40. Forest was unexpected. stage time-trial on Tuesday. It left Quintana RESULTS (14TH STAGE) RESULTS (STAGE 6) needing to chip away at his defi cit on his pre- 1 Tom Dumoulin (NED/SUN) 3hr 02min 03sec, 2. 1. Jonathan Dibben (GBR/Sky) 24km in 28min ferred terrain of the climbs. Ilnur Zakarin (RUS/KAT) at 3secs, 3. Mikel Landa 27secs, 2. Brent Bookwalter (USA/Cannondale) at But despite a couple of impressive attacks (ESP/SKY) 9, 4. Nairo Quintana (COL/MOV) 14, 5. 0.07secs, 3. Andrew Talansky (USA/Cannondale) that appeared to set him up for his second Thibaut Pinot (FRA/FDJ) 35, 6. Adam Yates (GBR/ 0.16, 4. George Bennett (NZL/LottoNL) 0.18, 5. stage win of this 100th edition, following his ORI) 41, 7. Vincenzo Nibali (ITA/BAH) 43, 8. Franco Filippo Ganna (ITA/UAE Team Emirates) 0.21, 6. victory at Blockhaus on stage nine, Quintana Pellizotti (ITA/BAH) s.t., 9. Steven Kruijswijk (NED/ Maximillan Schachmann (GER/Quick-Step) same was never able to open up a gap of more than TLJ) 46, 10. Tanel Kangert (EST/AST) s.t. time, 7. Peter Sagan (SVK/Bora) 0.23, 8. Maciej 10 seconds on the big Dutchman. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION: 1. Tom Dumoulin Bodnar (POL/Bora) s.t., 9. Martin Elmiger (SUI/ As Quintana struggled to open up a deci- (NED/SUN) 59hr 31min 17sec, 2. Nairo Quintana BMC) 0.25, 10. Nils Politt (GER/Katusha) 0.27 Ryota Murata of Japan (right) lands a punch on Hassan N’Dam of France during the 10th round of the WBA middleweight title bout in Tokyo yesterday. (AFP)

AFP ened to bring an early end to the fi ght. With Mu- Tokyo rata looking poised to become only Japan’s second middleweight world champion, and fi rst in 22 years, N’Dam showed real grit to stay on his feet as rance’s Hassan N’Dam won a controver- his legs buckled twice more in the seventh round. sial split decision over Japan’s Ryota Mu- More often than not the former WBO champion’s rata to capture the vacant WBA middle- punches simply glanced off the gloves of Murata, weight title yesterday. Murata, the 2012 who never looked to be in any serious trouble. OlympicF gold medallist, appeared to dominate the Local favourite Murata lost for the fi rst time in fi ght in Tokyo, fl ooring the interim champ in the 13 professional fi ghts while N’Dam improved his fourth round and wobbling him on several more record to 36 wins against two losses. However, occasions. Murata looked mystifi ed at the verdict after bat- N’Dam, who had survived relentless punish- tering the Frenchman. ment throughout, sank to his knees as the scores The 33-year-old N’Dam was awarded the fi ght were announced to audible gasps from the Japa- 116-111 on the fi rst judge’s scorecard, but the sec- nese crowd. A stunned Murata told reporters: “He ond gave it to Murata 117-110. The third judge’s didn’t hit me with a single punch that hurt me.” card had it 115-112 to N’Dam, to the obvious cha- N’Dam insisted he had done enough to win. “I grin of the Tokyo crowd. thought I won more rounds than him,” said the “I sincerely apologise to the fans for failing to Cameroon-born Frenchman. “We knew Murata win the fi ght,” Murata told reporters after his has a dangerous right hand so the plan was to keep hopes of facing the middleweight division’s uni- my distance. Even after I was knocked down I fi ed champion Gennady Golovkin were dealt a stuck to the plan well.” hammer blow. “I knew I’d won at the London Ol- Murata began aggressively in his fi rst tilt at a ympics but I had a weird feeling before the scores world title and a vicious right hook sent N’Dam were announced,” added the 31-year-old. crashing to the canvas near the end of the fourth. “He scored with his jab, but I knocked him The Japanese challenger went for the kill, un- down. I probably should have knocked him down Fans cheer for Netherlands’ Tom Dumoulin (centre) of team Sunweb as he sprints to victory in the 14th stage of the Giro d’Italia. (AFP) leashing a series of right-hand bombs that threat- a couple more times.” Gulf Times 6 Sunday, May 21, 2017 SPORT

MOTOGP NBA Vinales on pole in James powers Cavs in record Yamaha hat-trick rout of Celtics

Teammate Rossi and Tech3 rider Zarco to start front of the grid AFP Washington AFP Le Mans, France eBron James continued his dynamic playoff run scor- pain’s Maverick Vinales en- ing 30 points as the defending sured a Yamaha lock-out at champion Cleveland Cavaliers the front of the grid for today’s Lexploded for a 130-86 blowout of the French MotoGP after pipping Boston Celtics to take a 2-0 lead in their championshipS leader Valentino Rossi NBA playoff series. to pole position at Le Mans. James scored 22 points in the fi rst Italian veteran Rossi and Vinales, half on Friday night as the Cavaliers led 22, are attempting to reassert control 72-31 at the break — the largest halft- of their title destiny after their early ime advantage in NBA postseason his- season form disintegrated last time tory. out in Spain. It was the biggest playoff win ever The 38-year-old Rossi leads the for the Cavaliers, who now have the championship with 62 points after luxury of hosting games three and four four rounds, while Vinales is a close in Cleveland. second after winning the fi rst two rac- “I am a guy that lives in the moment. es in Qatar and Argentina. Our team is in a great groove right now,” “It was a tricky qualifying, because James said. the track was not at its best, but any- “We want to try to get better. I said way our bike is really good here,” said before that we had another level and averaging 34.8 points, 9.0 rebounds Vinales, who remained cautious over (people) looked at me like I was crazy,” and 7.1 assists per game in these play- Sunday’s weather conditions after he he added. off s. and Rossi had struggled in Friday’s “I believe we have another level as He dished out seven assists and add- rain-hit practice sessions. well. We can continue to get better. No ed four rebounds, four steals and three “We have to be really careful with complacency with us right now.” blocked shots, while Kevin Love had 21 the weather, we also have to pay a lot The Celtics team had its heart ripped points and 12 rebounds and Kyrie Irv- of attention if we have a fl ag to fl ag, Yamaha rider Maverick Vinales (centre) will start today’s French MotoGP race on pole ahead of Movistar Yamaha teammate out for the second game in a row at the ing 23 points. a wet race or even on the dry, we still Valentino Rossi (left) and Monster Yamaha Tech3 rider Johann Zarco. (AFP) Boston Garden. It marked the worst The win was the Cavaliers’ 13th have to improve.” home playoff loss in franchise history, straight in the playoff s, dating back to MotoGP rookie Johann Zarco will Australia’s Jack Miller, also on a I wasn’t going to stop in time I let go “I was a little angry and worried af- falling three points shy of matching the last three games of the fi nals last start today’s race in third to complete Honda machine, qualifi ed in 11th af- before I hit the wall.” ter my fall during the third free prac- Boston’s worst postseason defeat. year. The streak equals an NBA record. a Yamaha hat-trick on the front row. ter he somehow emerged unscathed Just a tenth of a second split Vinales tice,” he added. James’s performance came in front Defending world champion Marc from a horror crash in fourth practice and Rossi, but all the focus was on the “The fans are amazing so I have to of a crowd of 18,600 and just hours af- ‘IT IS EMBARRASSING’ Marquez of Spain is on the second row in which he lost control of his bike, performance of home favourite Zarco. appreciate their support. It gives me ter he was snubbed as a nominee for the Boston guard Avery Bradley said he after qualifying fi fth-fastest on his slammed into a tyre wall and was The Frenchman, 26, celebrated his motivation, but it also increases the league’s MVP award. was stunned the Celtics weren’t able to Honda yesterday. tossed high into the air. best qualifying result since stepping pressure. I remain an outsider at this “What can I do about it? My only job bring more off ense to the table. “We modifi ed the setting a bit, and “It was a nasty crash and I’m lucky up to MotoGP this season from Moto2 level.” is to be MVP of this team every night. I “It is embarrassing,” he said. “The that, together with this track and this to walk away with just some bruises,” and could not contain his joy. Breathing hard down his neck in know what I bring to the table,” he said. games is over and we already been em- asphalt, makes our bike work well,” said Miller. “I had some locking on “To be on the front row is just fan- fourth was Britain’s Cal Crutchlow Cleveland coach Tyronn Lue didn’t barrassed. Not much can happen now.” said Rossi. “In the end it was a really the front through turn one which sent tastic,” said Zarco, who was unhurt af- on a Honda, while Ducati’s Andrea agree with leaving James’s name off the Adding to Boston’s woes, Isaiah good qualifying.” me towards the wall and when I saw ter taking a tumble in practice. Dovizioso was sixth-fastest. three-man nominee list. Thomas was lost to a right hip strain at “I look at LeBron like Shaq (Shaquille halftime. Before that, he was hounded O’Neal),” said Lue. “I think every year by the Cavaliers, missing all six shots in he’s the MVP and you could give him the fi rst half. But he did assist on six of Alonso fi res warning shot on Fast Friday the award every year if you wanted to.” his team’s 11 baskets in the half. James has scored 30 points in eight The Celtics, who lost the fi rst two Reuters exciting just to be in the mix knowing “I think it’s very impressive,” Sato told straight games as he looks to visit the games of their fi rst-round series with Indianapolis that we seemingly have a chance to reporters. “Although, it’s what you ex- fi nals for the seventh-straight season. the Chicago Bulls at home, had won fi ve do well in qualifying.” pected, what we expected, to be hon- He has never lost a playoff series when straight at home since then before los- Japan’s Takuma Sato was third quick- est. Fernando is one of the best drivers his team has been up 2-0. ing the opener of this NBA semi-fi nal renchman Sebastien Bourdais est with a 231.969 mph and Alonso in the world. I think we expected him to Heading into the game, James was series. posted the top speed while In- fourth best with 231.827 mph in his be up to speed very quickly. FdyCar rookie Fernando Alonso McLaren Andretti Autosport Honda. “Obviously today is something new fired a warning shot on the final day It was a particularly impressive for him again. Fast Friday you break NHL of practice ahead of the Indianapolis performance from the Spaniard given 230 miles per hour for the first time. 500 on Friday. the two time Formula One champion He did drive extremely well.” Bourdais, who spent parts of two sea- grabs. The fastest nine cars will battle had never driven an IndyCar before Alonso has endured a miserable F1 seasons in Formula One with Toro Rosso, for pole on today. this week with the exception of one son with McLaren, who have struggled Murray displays magic posted the fastest lap of 233.116mph The Frenchman was the only driver brief test earlier in May. with an unreliable and uncompetitive (375.164kph) around the famed 2.5 to crack 233mph with American Ryan The eff ort impressed his Alonso’s An- Honda engine and are the only team mile super speedway on what is Hunter-Reay, the 2014 Indy 500 win- dretti Autosport team mate Sato, who on the grid yet to score a point after as Penguins tie series known as ‘Fast Friday’. ner, posting the second best eff ort of also had considerable experience in five races. Honda, however, have domi- Qualifying was scheduled for later 232.132. Formula One with Jordan, BAR and nated at the Brickyard powering 11 of AFP forward Kyle Turris hit the post with 12 yesterday with 33 spots on the start- “Never a bad day when you’re at the Super Aguri, before making the jump the top 12 cars on Fast Friday, including Los Angeles seconds left while Penguins defenseman ing grid for the May 28th race up for front,” smiled Bourdais. “It’s pretty to IndyCar. the top four. Brian Dumoulin went down on one knee to make a clutch block just moments be- att Murray stopped 24 fore the fi nal horn sounded. shots in his fi rst start of Game fi ve is Sunday in Pittsburgh. GOLF / BYRON NELSON GOLF / LPGA KINGSMILL CHAMPIONSHIP the postseason as the Murray gave up one goal on 20 shots Pittsburgh Penguins jug- in relief in game three while seeing his Mgled their roster and beat the Ottawa fi rst postseason action. Senators 3-2 in game four of their NHL He was inserted for game four over Thompson extends lead playoff series. Fleury, who was yanked in game three af- Kokrak blasts way Murray, who guided the Penguins ter giving up four goals on the nine shots. Reuters Four shots behind Thompson at to a Stanley Cup title in 2016, got the While Murray provided a diff erent New York 134 were New Zealand’s Lydia Ko, the start Friday ahead of No.1 Marc-Andre look in goal, the Penguins forwards world number one, who carded a 67, Fleury who had started every game of were fi nally able to solve Senators goal- into fi ve-shot lead and American Candie Kung, whose the 2017 postseason. ie Craig Anderson, against whom they exi Thompson extended her 66 in the second round included an “For the most part, we stayed on our have just three goals in three games. AFP lead to three shots on Fri- eagle on the par-4 sixth hole. toes, held the puck in their end and got Crosby had a goal and an assist, Dallas, Texas day at the LPGA Kingsmill Five back are Chung In-gee (66) some good scoring chances. Or guys Dumoulin scored once and defense- Championship after post- of South Korea and Vicky Hurst deserve lot of credit for the way they man Olli Matta scored for the injury- Ling a second straight six-under- (67). played,” Pittsburgh captain Sidney plagued Penguins, who got the com- ason Kokrak rocketed up the par 65 in Williamsburg, Virginia. Thompson and the rest of the Crosby said. petitive juices fl owing early in the game leaderboard, fi ring a bogey-free At 12-under 130 after two fi eld endured a rain delay, but the Murray looked like he hadn’t missed in front of Murray. 62 in the second round of the rounds, Thompson was halfway long-hitting American was stel- a beat stopping nine Senator shots in “This has been same story for us. Byron Nelson as world No. 1 to her fi rst win of the 2017 season. lar with six birdies and no bogeys the fi rst period of the pivotal game in Five defensemen for two periods and DustinJ Johnson shot a second straight Playing partner and fellow Ameri- while hitting 16 of 18 greens in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference they handled it well,” Crosby said. 67 to remain in striking distance. can Gerina Piller was alone in sec- regulation on the River Course at fi nals series, which is tied 2-2. Clarke MacArthur and Tom Pyatt Kokrak, who is seeking his fi rst win ond after a 67. Kingsmill Resort. The game ended in chaos with the scored for the Senators, who battled on the USPGA Tour, fi red a career-low Senators buzzing the Penguins’ net in the back from a 3-0 defi cit but saw their eight-under-par round to forge his way fi nal 30 seconds of regulation. Ottawa rally fall just short. into fi ve-shot lead at 12-under 128 at the TPC Las Colinas course outside of World champion Ogier storms to Portugal lead Dallas. Four-time world champion Sebastien Ogier stormed into the lead TENNIS “If a shot fi ts my eye or I see it, I like of the Rally of Portugal yesterday, turning an overnight five-second to pull the trigger,” Kokrak said Friday. deficit into a 16-second advantage ahead of the final day. Ogier, be- Former FedEx Cup and Tour Cham- blowing hard like it was yesterday the hind the wheel of a Ford Fiesta, held off a double Hyundai challenge pionship winner Billy Horschel shot a whole day,” Johnson said. “But it kind from Thierry Neuville, who is 16.8sec off the lead, and Dani Sordo Shanan shines in Smash 65 on Friday and is alone in second at of laid back with six holes to go. who is 51.3sec behind. The French driver had been third overnight as 133. “The game is still not quite as sharp M-Sport teammate Ott Tanak led Sordo by 4.6sec. Half a dozen players — Johnson, as it was leading into Augusta, but it’s Tennis Academy C’ship Cameron Tringale (68), An Byeong- getting there — it’s getting close.” Rattanon edges closer to Thailand Open win Hun of South Korea (66), Bud Cauley Defending champion and reigning Twenty-one-year-old Rattanon Wannasrichan hit a flawless 65 yester- By Sports Reporter (67), Jhonattan Vegas of Venezuela (68) Masters champion Sergio Garcia shot day to take a slim overnight lead into the final day at Thailand Open Doha and fi rst-round co-leader James Hahn a 65 and moved back into contention as he bids for a breakthrough Asian Tour title. At 17 under for the (70) — are six shots back at 134. at 138, while world No. 6 Jordan Spieth tournament (196), he has a one-shot lead over compatriot Panuphol Kokrak’s round included eight bird- shot a 75 on Friday and missed the cut. Pittayarat, 24, who scorched round the Thai Country Club in 64 and atar’s Essa Shanan beat Omar ies, a 12-foot par putt on the 10th hole has dropped only one shot so far this week. Indian ace Gaganjeet Hassan to win the men’s sin- and a seven-foot par putt on the 18th. LEADING ROUND II SCORES Bhullar remained within striking distance on 15-under. gles title in the 9th edition of “Anytime you can have a bogey-free 128 — Jason Kokrak (USA) 66-62 the Smash Tennis Academy round on any golf course on the PGA ChampionshipQ at the Khalifa Inter- 133 — Billy Horschel (USA) 68-65 Brady did not have concussion last year: agent Tour is awesome,” Kokrak said. 134 — An Byeong-Hun (KOR) 68-66, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was not diagnosed national Tennis and Squash Complex “I made a lot of birdies out there and Dustin Johnson (USA) 67-67, Cameron with a concussion during the 2016 season despite his wife’s recent recently. Shanan then completed a it was nice. I’m normally a pretty ag- Tringale (USA) 66-68, Bud Cauley (USA) comments, his agent said. “Tom was not diagnosed with a concussion double, teaming up with Anass Lam- gressive player and that’s how I played 67-67, James Hahn (USA) 64-70, Jhonat- last year,” agent Don Yee said in a statement. “Many of the protocols rani to win the doubles title. The dup today.” tan Vegas (VEN) 66-68 and safeguards still are evolving, and it’s obviously a good thing the beat Hassan and Sultan Khalfan in Johnson said he had to battle strong 135 — Peter Malnati (USA) 67-68, organisation and everyone close to him is vigilant and always looking the fi nals. The event was organised by winds for the second straight round. Grayson Murray (USA) 72-63, Morgan out for his health.” Brady’s wife, Gisele Bundchen, had told CBS This Smash Tennis Academy in co-opera- “This morning, the fi rst nine holes Hoff mann (USA) 69-66, Chad Campbell Morning television show that Brady “had a concussion last year”. tion with the Qatar Tennis, Squash and we played the wind was howling, really (USA) 68-67 Badminton Federation (QTSBF). Gulf Times Sunday, May 21, 2017 7 SPORT

CRICKET / INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE ISLAMIC SOLIDARITY GAMES Supergiant take Qatar’s Zayid reaches semis on Mumbai in title showdown ‘Excited about playing in my first final... hopefully we can make it a good one’

AFP Hyderabad

teve Smith’s Rising Pune Su- pergiant eye their maiden In- dian Premier League crown as they meet tournament favour- itesS Mumbai Indians in a mouth-wa- tering title clash in Hyderabad today. Pune, who ended seventh in the eight-team Twenty20 tournament Qatar’s Mubarak Zayid in action yesterday. last year, had a mixed start this season only to pick up momentum towards By Sports Reporter including two gold, two silver and six the business end. Doha bronze medals. Pune’s record buy Ben Stokes Zayid will face Turkey’s Anil Yuksel proved to be the trump card as the in the semi-fi nals. England all-rounder’s showing with atar’s Mubarak Zayid en- Yuksel saw off Uzbek Jurabek Ka- the bat and ball was instrumental in dured a rain delay and a sec- rimov 6-4, 6-4 in the men’s last-eight the side clinching a play-off berth. ond set comeback from his for a spot in the semis. But the team showed in the fi rst opponent to storm into the Yuksel’s compatriot Altug Celikbilek qualifi er against Mumbai that it is not semi-fiQ nals of the men’s singles tennis too made it to the semi-fi nals with a one-man army after young spinner competition at the Islamic Solidarity a straight-set 6-3, 6-2 win over Uz- Washington Sundar turned out to be Games in Baku yesterday. bekistan’s Sergey Fomin. the unlikely hero with his match-win- Wild-card Zayid beat Iran’s Amir- Moroccan Amine Ahouda also ning haul of three wickets. vala Madanchi 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 in the reached the men’s semis with a 7-5, 6-3 Sundar’s performance made up for quarter-fi nals yesterday to reach the win over Uganda’s Duncan Mugabe. Stokes’ absence, after he left for na- last-four stage of the competition. Elsewhere, heavy rains forced a re- tional duty before the knockouts. The win took Zayid and Qatar a step schedule of the 3x3 Basketball quarter- However Pune, whose two-year run closer to yet another medal. fi nals. Qatar will now play Saudi Arabia along with the Gujarat Lions ends this Qatar have 10 medals in their kitty, today. season, may be playing their last game in the cash-rich league after being de- nied an extension by the league’s gov- SPOTLIGHT erning council early this month. The two banned franchises — Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals — are all set to come back in Latif boycotts Pakistan the next edition of the league, having Rising Pune Supergiant captain Steven Smith (left) poses with Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma and the winners’ served two year suspensions for their trophy on the eve of the Indian Premier League final in Hyderabad yesterday. (AFP) involvement in 2013 spot-fi xing saga. spot-fi xing hearing But captain Smith, who took charge unbeaten 40 in the previous game was Rohit Sharma insisted that the team bai boast of a number of match-win- from Mahendra Singh Dhoni ahead of a proof of his game-changing ability. would take their confi dence forward ners including some power-packed AFP we are talking in legal terms.” this season, is focused on the task at “Steve Smith has led the side ad- from the win against the Kolkata foreign presence in big-hitter Kieron Lahore, Pakistan PCB lawyer Taff azul Rizvi said tribu- hand as he praised the team for its stu- mirably and got Pune into the fi nals. Knight Riders in the second qualifi er. Pollard and New Zealand fast bowler nal could proceed even without Latif’s pendous showing. Of course he has had great help from Mumbai, who would be playing Mitchell McClenaghan. presence. “It’s just been about enjoying this Dhoni,” former India captain Sunil their fourth IPL fi nal, have been the While McClenaghan did not play ormer Pakistan opener Khalid “If a player or participant is not ap- season and doing what we can up until Gavaskar wrote in a column in The team to beat in this edition with 11 the last game due to an injury, Sharma Latif yesterday boycotted the pearing before tribunal, from the start we play the last game. We have had a Times of India. wins out of their 16 matches. insisted the team will take a call on proceedings of a spot fi xing or from the middle, then the tribunal fairly successful year and played con- Pune’s bowling arsenal boasts of “We know that we have not per- their paceman ahead of the fi nal game. hearing after after a tribunal re- has complete right to listen the re- sistent cricket throughout,” Smith fast bowler Jaydev Unadkat (22 wick- formed well against them but con- Wicket-keeper batsman Parthiv fusedF to give him a copy of his recorded maining case as per the law and give the said on the eve of the fi nal on Saturday. ets in 11 games) who is getting ad- ditions will be diff erent for both the Patel has given the team many good interview. decision,” said Rizvi. “I am excited about playing in my equate support from fellow paceman teams and we will try to learn from our starts in the tournament with Sharma, The 31-year-old batsman stands The PCB said the video interview fi rst IPL fi nal and hopefully we can Dan Christian, leg-spinner Adam past mistakes,” Sharma, whose team burly West Indian Pollard and Sharma accused of attempting to spot-fi x, ac- was conducted by its anti-corruption make it a good one tomorrow.” Zampa and Sundar. has lost all its three games against also rising to the challenge. cepting an off er by a bookmaker which unit on February 19 and contains a con- Dhoni’s fi nishing powers might be Pune this season, said. Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah has he did not report, and luring other fessional statement from Latif. on the wane but the gutsy wicketkeep- LEARNING FROM PAST MISTAKES “As a team you have to prepare for been the perfect death bowler for players into the conspiracy. The main charges for Latif are luring er-batsman’s presence is enough to But two-time champions Mumbai the unexpected.” Mumbai with his ability to bowl con- His case is currently being heard by other players to participate in the fi xing intimidate the opposition. His 26-ball would be no pushovers as skipper Champions in 2013 and 2015, Mum- sistent yorkers. a three-member tribunal convened and not reporting the off ers. to adjudicate on the scandal which Fast bowler Mohamed Irfan was emerged during the Pakistan Super banned for six months and spinner Mo- BOTTOMLINE League (PSL) in the United Arab Emir- hamed Nawaz for one month and both ates in February and March. were fi ned after they confessed to failing Latif’s lawyer Badre Alam said he had to report meetings with bookmakers. rejected the tribunal because it refused Latif and three other players — Shar- to give his client a copy of his interview, jeel Khan, Shahzaib Hasan and Nasir Final games of Aspire Academy recorded by the Pakistan Cricket Board Jamshed — are also provisionally sus- (PCB) anti-corruption tribunal in Feb- pended on various charges and face ruary. bans ranging from fi ve years to life if “We have asked for the recording of found guilty. Khalid’s interview which is our right The Pakistan Cricket Board on Fri- Tri-Series competition this week but the tribunal has rejected it,” Alam day said it had seized bat grips given told reporters. to Latif by a bookmaker which the Is- “Until that (interview is given) we lamabad United opener was allegedly will not continue the proceedings, we supposed to use to indicate he would told them we are not running away but participate in a spot-fi x.

MLB Napoli and Gallo homer in Rangers win

Agencies 10th in 12 games. Jon Jay had an RBI New York double for the Cubs. Evan Longoria went 4-for-5 and hit a tiebreaking RBI single in the eighth in- ike Napoli and Joey Gal- ning as Tampa Bay edged New York 5-4. lo homered as the Texas Logan Morrison and Rickie Weeks Jr. Rangers ran their winning drove in two runs apiece for the Rays. streak to 10 games with a Matt Holliday hit a game-tying two- matches against Aspire Academy’s nical director, Edorta Murua, said, they have remarkable potential, par- M5-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers on run home run in the eighth for the Yan- By Sports Reporter Doha youth teams featuring players born in “The Tri-Series is an integral part of ticularly in the game against PSG. I’m Friday. kees. 1999, 2000, and 2001. the work Aspire Academy does. Run- excited to play my part in supporting Nick Martinez allowed an unearned The most recent competition fi n- ning throughout the year, the Tri-Se- further success in the years to come.” run and four hits in fi ve innings as the RESULTS spire Academy’s Tri-Series ished recently, with players born in ries competitions feature some of the Meanwhile, Brondby IF coach Ken- Rangers notched just the fourth two- Rangers ...... 5 Tigers ...... 3 competition for the academ- 2002, 2003 and 2004. Teams from world’s best youth teams. These teams neth Nielsen said, “It’s good to be back digit winning streak in franchise his- Brewers ...... 6 Cubs ...... 3 ic year 2016-17 will draw to a Aspire Academy put in some excel- are carefully selected by Aspire Acad- at Aspire Academy. We fi rst took part tory. Rays ...... 5 Yankees ...... 4 close this week after another lent performances against visiting emy’s team of experts based on the in this competition seven years ago The Tigers played without their Rockies ...... 12 Reds ...... 6 hugelyA successful run. teams Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) visiting team’s background and per- against the Academy’s youth team. Nos. 3 and 4 hitters as Miguel Cabrera Indians ...... 5 Astros ...... 3 The format of the competitions, from France, and Brondby IF from formances as well as the quality of their There can be no doubt that Aspire missed his third straight game due to a Braves ...... 7 Nationals ...... 4 which run throughout the year with Denmark. football development programme. Academy has developed rapidly since sore side and Victor Martinez was ex- Mets ...... 3 Angels ...... 0 teams from various major football A clear highlight of the competition “By competing against strong then. The quality and standard of the cused for weekend paternity leave. Phillies...... 7 Pirates ...... 2 clubs participating, was launched in was the Academy’s 2003 youth team teams, our players are provided with Academy’s youth team was remark- Elsewhere, Willy Peralta struck out Giants ...... 6 Cardinals ...... 5 2012. securing a thrilling 1-0 win against an ideal learning opportunity and able. I can really see teams from Aspire fi ve in two scoreless innings as Milwau- Twins ...... 4 Royals ...... 3 (10 ings) For the fi nal games of this academic PSG, with the winning goal scored by given exposure to diff erent football- Academy playing in European tourna- kee withstood a lengthy rain delay and White Sox ...... 2 Mariners ..1 (10 ings) year’s competition, visiting clubs — promising student-athlete Abdullah ing styles as well as the experience ments soon – they’re absolutely on a beat Chicago 6-3. Orioles ...... 5 Blue Jays 3 (10 ings) Sao Paulo FC (Brazil), FA Thailand Sarhan. of competition. This is my fi rst Tri- par with teams there. It’ll be exciting Domingo Santana and Jett Bandy Athletics ...... 3 Red Sox...2 (10 ings) and VfB Stuttgart (Germany) — are Commenting on the competition, Series tournament and I’m delighted to see all the work being done at Aspire drove in two runs apiece as the Brew- Dodgers...... 7 Marlins ...... 2 scheduled to arrive in Doha today for Aspire Academy’s new football tech- with the results. Our students showed Academy bear fruit in 2022.” ers won their fourth straight game and Diamondbacks .....10 Padres ...... 1 Sunday, May 21, 2017 GULF TIMES SPORT

SPOTLIGHT FIFA confi dent in Qatar’s preparations for 2022 World Cup, says Infantino ‘To see a 2022 World Cup stadium already delivered and fully operational is a great joy, besides giving us confidence regarding the level of preparations in Qatar. There is undoubtedly strong commitment from the local authorities...’

Fireworks display during the inauguration of the Khalifa International Stadium that took place on Saturday before the 2017 Emir Cup final.

By Sports Reporter operational is a great joy, besides giv- determination to deliver a tournament International Stadium is close to Qa- Doha ing us confi dence regarding the level the entire Arab world is proud to be a tari hearts and has seen some of Qa- of preparations in Qatar. There is un- part of. As we promised in our bid, our tar’s biggest sporting occasions over doubtedly strong commitment from innovative stadiums off er an unrivalled the years since it was fi rst launched in ore than 40,000 football the local authorities through the Su- experience to fans and players alike. 1976. It was therefore a fi tting venue fans attended the launch preme Committee and although fi ve I’m proud we can show these off to the for the biggest match of Qatar’s foot- of the fi rst proposed host years seems a long way off , the benefi t world and welcome fans with the hos- ball calendar, the 2017 Emir Cup fi nal venue of the 2022 FIFA of time will make sure Qatar delivers an pitality this World Cup will be remem- between Al Rayyan and Al Sadd. I’m MWorld Cup, with HH the Emir Sheikh amazing tournament in 2022.” bered for.” glad the fans got to enjoy this event in Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani offi cially Expanded to seat more than 40,000 Other new features at the stadium such a magnifi cent remodelled sta- cutting the ribbon at the new Khalifa spectators, the stadium has under- include the installation of a larger roof dium.” International Stadium in front of the gone extensive renovation works ahead over the entire spectator area, with an Located in the world-famous As- sell-out crowd. of the FIFA World Cup, when it will intricate net of German and Italian- pire Zone, Khalifa International Sta- The offi cial inauguration ceremony host matches until the quarter-fi nals. made steel tension cables weighing dium already off ers a range of nearby included a light show from the newly These include the installation of revo- 4,000 tonnes holding 92 panels in leisure amenities. During the World installed LED lights, a performance lutionary cooling technology promised place, while the stadium will also be Cup, however, fans will also be able to from the Emiri Guard and a stunning during Qatar’s successful bid, which the fi rst FIFA World Cup venue and the travel to and from the historic venue fi rework display that saw pyrotechnic tonight kept the pitch at 20°C and the fi rst stadium in the region to be lit by via a dedicated metro station on Qa- experts display 2022 in the sky above stands at 23°C while using 40 percent LED lighting, which is both more sus- tar’s national metro project, QRail. the stadium in fi reworks to mark the less energy than traditional cooling tainable and more versatile than tradi- Once completed, Qatar’s tournament opening of the World Cup venue. The methods. tional lighting. infrastructure will keep journey times fi nal of Qatar’s biggest domestic tro- Hassan al-Thawadi, Secretary Gen- Even the pitch at Khalifa Interna- between all FIFA World Cup stadiums phy, the Emir Cup, kicked off shortly eral of the Supreme Committee for tional Stadium has a rich story to tell: and accommodation locations below afterwards as the stadium’s fi rst sport- Delivery & Legacy (SC), the organi- designed to be perfectly suited to Qa- one hour, enabling fans to watch more ing event since being renovated ahead sation responsible for delivering the tar’s climate, it was developed at the than one live match per day for the fi rst of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. infrastructure required to host the SC’s nearby Turf Nursery - the only time in FIFA World Cup history. Speaking on the launch of Qatar’s 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar, said of one of its kind in Asia - and was laid in Following a 92nd minute assist from fi rst World Cup stadium, Gianni In- the launch: “The completion of our a new world record time of 13 ½ hours. Al Sadd captain and FC Barcelona leg- fantino, FIFA President, said: “As or- fi rst stadium more than fi ve years be- Qatar Football Association (QFA) end Xavi Hernandez, Al Sadd SC ran out ganisers, to see a 2022 FIFA World Cup fore the Qatar World Cup begins is an President, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa eventual 2-1 winners over Al Rayyan SC stadium already delivered and fully important milestone that refl ects our bin Ahmed al-Thani, added: “Khalifa to secure a domestic trophy double.

RALLY KAZAKHSTAN Qatar’s al-Attiyah leads international fi eld By Our Correspondent Saudi Arabia’s Yazeed al-Rajhi will series and will be aiming for a podium takes place tomorrow (Sunday) and will Aktau City, Kazakhstan have other ideas. The Riyadh driver has fi nish to boost his season after a disap- run for 268.23km in a northerly loop shown an impressive turn of speed in pointing start. Kazakh Yuriy Sazonov of the coastal region between the ex- his X-raid Mini All4 Racing and he and drives a second Hummer H3 and heads Soviet military base of Fort Shevchenko he Republic of Kazakhstan en- German navigator Timo Gottschalk the local challenge with fellow Kazakh and Aktau in a day’s route of 337.63km. ters the offi cial world of inter- will be eager to make up lost ground in co-driver Vitalyi Yevtyekhov. The experienced French rallying duo national FIA motor sport for the championship after technical is- Also looking at potential top fi ve of Thierry Magnaldi and Gilles Picard the fi rst time this week. Qatar’s sues cost them a possible podium fi nish fi nishers are the Russian driver Viktor have been traversing each day’s route TNasser Saleh al-Attiyah will create an- in Qatar. Al-Rajhi has the pace to match Khoroshavtsev in his Aspec Motor- in the last few days to check on possible other little piece of history of his own al-Attiyah and a fascinating duel is in sport-run BMW 3 CC and Lithuania’s weather damage and make any neces- by leading 21 rivals into the start of Ral- prospect over the next six days. Antanas Juknevicius at the wheel of sary last-minute modifi cations to the ly Kazakhstan tomorrow. A couple of fastest times brought Po- a Toyota Hilux. The remainder of the road book. The new fi fth round of the FIA World land’s Jakub Przygonski into the spot- T1 category is fi lled by Kazakh driv- Stage two heads east out of Aktau Cup for Cross-Country Rallies starts light in Qatar last month and the former ers; namely Yerden Shagirov, Zhanat City and winds its way in a loop via and fi nishes on the eastern shores of enduro rider proved that his decision to Zhamimbetov, Dmitry Pitulov, Daniyar the town of Ushtagan and south of the the Caspian Sea at the isolated city of switch to rallying on four wheels with a Alibayev and Andrey Drozd. oil and gas hub of Zhanaozen to fi nish Aktau in the far southwest of the coun- second X-raid Mini was a wise one. He Saudi Arabia’s Yasir Saeidan and Qa- just north of the Kenderly Sea Resort try. Teams will tackle six selective sec- holds seventh in the points’ standings, tar’s Adel Abdulla resume their duel on Monday (May 22). The seaside resort tions devised by co-ordinator Sergey while Qatar’s Mohammed Abu Issa for victory in the T2 category for series location will then host the bivouac for Talantsev in a route of over 2,500km holds third position and drives the third production cross-country vehicles, three nights. through the vast desert wastelands that Mini in Kazakhstan. Abu Issa made the although Rally Kazakhstan President The two selective sections on May surround Aktau and the coastal region. switch from racing on a quad and has Marat Abykayev and fellow country- 23 and 24 loop around the deserts fur- Al-Attiyah arrives in Central Asia adapted quickly to rallying in a car. men Kirill Chernenkov and Pavel Logi- ther east and to the north of Kenderly trailing FIA World Cup leader Sheikh Baja Russia winner Aron Domzala led nov will be hoping to upset the series and closer to the remote town of Senek. Khalid al-Qassimi by 15 points, but the FIA World Cup after the fi rst two regulars and claim podium fi nishes on They will run for 421km and 276.20km, his Abu Dhabi rival has opted to com- rounds, but the Pole suff ered in the in- their home event. respectively. pete at the WRC event in Portugal this tense heat of the deserts of the UAE at The French duo of Patrice Garrouste The penultimate stage takes teams weekend. That decision means that the the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge and and Claude Fournier will decide the out- back to Aktau City via a competitive Doha-based two-time Dakar winner slipped to sixth in the rankings after come of the T3 battle in their Polaris RZR section of 370.90km in a day’s route has a clear opportunity to push for the Qatar. Maciej Marton replaces Szymon 1000s. Fournier won the category in Qa- of 499.60km. The action begins to the win and snatch the outright lead in this Nasser Saleh al-Attiyah tests his Overdrive Toyota Hilux near Aktau City. Gospodarczyk in the co-driver’s seat on tar last month and holds a joint lead in the north of Kenderly and makes its way year’s FIA World Cup for the fi rst time. this occasion. championship with the UAE’s Ahmed al- in an anti-clockwise direction to a fi n- “I came to Kazakhstan in 2009 who travelled to the event from a press busy,” joked the Qatari, who was able to Czech Miroslav Zapletal is one of the Maqoodi, the winner of T3 in Abu Dhabi. ish close to the small town of Zhetybay. for the Silk Way Rally and we passed reception in Moscow after a week’s test his Toyota Hilux for the fi rst time most experienced drivers in the cham- There is also a National event running A shorter sixth and fi nal loop stage of through Zhanaozen nearby, but this is shooting training at a camp in Baku on a short gravel section near Aktau on pionship. He has been developing his behind the main FIA rally. 147.94km, north of Aktau City, brings my fi rst time in Aktau,” said al-Attiyah, after the Jordan Rally. “I like to keep Friday afternoon. Hummer H3 during the course of the The opening Aktau-Aktau stage the action to a conclusion on May 26.