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SATURDAY 29 OCTOBER 2016 • 28 MOHARRAM 1438 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

IAAF Chief says Qatar could move Olympics date

Agencies prove flexible if it wanted new coun- social, cultural, they are political,” he year, in September and October,ctober, as were tries to host the showcase event. said. the Seoul Olympics in 1988.988. Asked if the Summer Olympics Qatar will host the World Cup in Qatar will host the 2019019 World Ath- could be moved if Qatar hosted, Coe 2022 when, for the first time, games will letics Championships. AFP: IAAF President Sebastian Coe said: “Yeah, we have to be realistic be played in November and December. These will be held inn latelate Septem-Septem- yesterday said that Qatar could move about this.” Doha has publicly stated that it will ber and early October. the Summer Olympics to later in the “We have to recognise that the bid for future Olympics, with 2028 The 2017 edition of thehe champion- calendar year if the Gulf country ever world wants sport and it’s not always being a likely contender. ships will be held in Londonndon during successfully bids to host the Games. going to be bidding from areas where Coe added that it was “not unusual” August. Speaking in Doha, where he met there aren’t going to be challenges.” to move the date of the Olympics. The 2015 world championshipmpionship IAAF President heads of the Asian Athletics Associ- “And those challenges are not just He pointed out that the Sydney were hosted by Beijing, agagainain in Sebastian Coe ation (AAA), Coe said athletics had to geographical or climatic, they are games in 2000 were held later in the August. SBK title fight comes down to a desert duel

The Peninsula impossible to know exactly how strong a rider can be. For Rea, it took until 2015 and his move to Kawasaki before he LOSAIL: The final round of the could really prove, definitively, 2016 MOTUL FIM Superbike World just how good he is. Since moving QMMF President Championship will see Jonathan to Team Green he has amassed 23 Abdulrahman Al Mannai Rea and Tom Sykes go head to head race wins and 44 podiums from 50 for the Championship at the Losail races. It has been an incredible run International Circuit. of form for Rea and he stands on the Winning the title is the main verge of greatness with another title goal for both of them, but it’s Roa success. who holds all the cards. He holds Englishman Sykes has quietly a near unassailable 48 point lead been able to put together another in the title standings, so for Sykes solid campaign but has been playing to have any chance of winning a catch-up throughout the year after Qatar Superstock Championship second title, he needs to win both a poor start to the season at Phillip races in Qatar and hope for the Island. Since then it seems he has best. Rea needs just two points in been fighting with his back to the either race to successfully defend wall, because against Rea, you need his championship. to come out swinging and put the set for December kick-off It’s almost impossible to fore- Champion on the defensive. Sykes see anything but Rea joining the hasn’t been able to do that this year ranks of consecutive WorldSBK and that’s why he goes to the last title winners. To put Rea’s feat into round of the Championship as a title “It is very exciting for us as we opportunity for riders from Turkey “If somebody likes to pay so perspective, only Fred Merkel, long shot. announce this new bike champion- and elsewhere to be here and learn for my riding I would continue for Doug Polen and Carl Fogarty have Of course Sykes could still pre- Thirty spots up ship,” QMMF President Abdulrahman the right way. The competition level as long as possible,” he said with a retained titles in the class consecu- vail and win his second title. With for grabs as QMMF Al Mannai said yesterday. is same for everybody. We would love huge smile. tively. If the Northern Irishman can two titles his legacy would change introduces new “We want to open our circuit to have a good series.” QMMF President praised Al Sual- join these ranks he will cement his greatly. Having finished in the top doors to new riders. We are trying Al Remaihi said: “Anyone can iti for ‘doing well’ on the international legacy in WorldSBK history. three in the standings for five con- six-round bike series to keep the costs down for young register with us for the new series stage. Despite having long been seen secutive seasons, and winning the riders.” but we will assess the skills of the “I would like to applaud the per- as arguably the most talented rider crown in 2013, his speed and talent “We want to assess the skills of rider. Once we feel the rider deserves formances of Saeed. He started late on the grid, Rea’s legacy has been is beyond doubt. young Qatari riders. This is a fantas- to be part of the new championship, but he has accomplished so much in forged over the last two years at The intensity that has been Rea’s By Rizwan Rehmat tic platform for wannabe riders,” Al we will then enroll their name. We such a short period of time. Credit to Kawasaki. hallmark - open the door against The Peninsula Mannai said. will have a total of 30 spots on the the young man for showing passion Racing for Honda, Rea won an him at your peril - has been in “I take this opportunity to thank racing list.” and dedication to improve as a rider,” admirable 15 races over six seasons stark contrast to Sykes’ more meas- the Losail Circuit Sports Club (LCSC) Each round will consist of two Al Mannai said. but it was his untapped potential ured approach. When faced with a for helping us. The championship races, QMMF confirmed. Turkish rider Kenan Sofuoglu as a title winner that excited many wheel-to-wheel battle, it has been DOHA: The Qatar Motor and Motor- will be launched on December 13,” Qatar’s top rider Saeed Al Sulaiti said: ”I have to say congratulations in the paddock. Far from being a Sykes that has backed down and Rea cycle Federation (QMMF) will launch he said. said he is looking forward to being to Qatar on this initiative. Superstock known commodity at the start of that has been victorious. If the York- a new six-round bike series in “The main goal is to give the part of the new series. is the class where many riders want 2015, Rea was seen as a potential shireman is to win the title again he December, its President announced local and regional riders the chance “I am living the dream (of rac- to be part of something tough and superstar - but ‘potential’ is the most needs to turn this tide and take the yesterday. to come in and get a taste of riding ing at top events). Everybody who exciting.” used word in racing. fight to his teammate. The new series - the Qatar Super- at a world-class circuit like Losail,” knows me knows what I mean,” Al “I started six years ago. I know It’s somewhat of a catch phrase Barring a crazy turn of events, stock Championship - has been he said. Sulaiti said. what this means. It is good for riders used to talk about riders. The high- the 2016 title is probably already planned to give young riders the Khalid Al Remaihi, Vice Chair- “It’s a dream of every rider to be to learn from this stage. This a good lights are enough to prove the rider lost for Sykes. But, if he is to win the chance to get a feel of Losail Inter- man and Secretary General of here. I am very excited to see this way to find new talent. I hope we see deserves to be on the grid and on 2017 title, he needs to start attack- national Circuit and ride with aims of LCSC, said: “This is a perfect plat- series take shape. I would like to con- this very often what we are about to a good bike but until they are in ing Rea - and there’s no better time improving their skills at the top level. form to nurture local talent. It is an tinue riding,” he added. see in Qatar,” Sofuoglu added. the position to win consistently, it’s than now. Rea lights the way in practice at Losail Circuit

The Peninsula means business as he charges towards with Xavi Fores (Barni Racing Team) He was not hurt and quickly his crowning in the Middle East. coming in close behind in seventh. picked up the bike to rejoin, finally A spectacular lap by the North- Davide Giugliano (Aruba.it Racing putting in the tenth quickest time. ern Irishman in the final two minutes -Ducati) ended the session in eighth, Championship contender Tom Sykes DOHA: WorldSBK riders hit the of the session saw him charge to the showing his shoulder issues are back (Kawasaki Racing Team) showed he floodlit Losail International Circuit top of the timesheets ahead of Chaz under control. Jordi Torres was the will need to put a lot of work in to yesterday evening for the first prac- Davies (Aruba.it Racing –Ducati) in first Althea BMW Racing Team rider catch his teammate this weekend, tice session of the final weekend of second, while Michael van der Mark home in ninth, while his teammate after finishing outside of the top 10 the 2016 season. (Honda World Superbike Team) fin- Raffaele De Rosa came home in tenth. in 13th. With this year’s World Champi- ished in third. De Rosa joins his WorldSBK Local star Saeed Al Sulaiti (Ped- onship is up for grabs this weekend, Alex Lowes (Pata Yamaha Official Althea BMW teammates this week- ercini Racing) improved his time the 13th and final round will be con- WorldSBK Team) had a good run in end after winning the 2016 STK1000 throughout the session and eventu- tested during the night at the Losail the early evening session to finish in Cup at the last Round in Jerez. He put ally finished in 19th. The defending circuit, making the final showdown fourth fastest, with his teammate Syl- in consistent times throughout the WorldSBK will be back on track at WorldSBK one to remember. vain Guintoli locking out the top five. session before crashing out at turn 9.00pm as they fight it out for entry champion Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Nicky Hayden (Honda World Super- 6, with five minutes of the session to Tissot-Superpole 2, ahead of Race Jonathan Rea in action Team) has shown early on that he bike Team) put in the sixth fastest time remaining. 1 today. SATURDAY 29 OCTOBER 2016 21

Australia security Champion Marquez chief arrives in fastest in Malaysia Bangladesh AFP

AFP podium and fight for the victory.” Marquez’s clinching of the title DHAKA: Cricket Australia’s head leaves Italian legend Valentino of security has arrived in Dhaka Rossi, a nine-time motorcycling to view England’s safety arrange- SEPANG: Recently crowned MotoGP world champion, trying to hold off ments during the ongoing Test champion Marc Marquez logged the his Movistar Yamaha teammate series, an official said. fastest time in yesterday’s practice Jorge Lorenzo of Spain in the fight Sean Carroll’s arrival on for the Malaysian Grand Prix but for second-place. Thursday comes a year after Aus- had to cut short his warm-up due Rossi posted the fifth-fastest tralia pulled out of a Test series to stomach trouble. lap yesterday, 0.401 seconds behind in Bangladesh over safety fears. The Repsol Honda rider, who Marquez. England’s captain Alastair Cook takes a catch to dismiss Bangaldesh’s captain Mohammad Rahim “Basically he came here to locked up the season title in Japan Lorenzo, who won the world (left) during their second Test match which started at Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh see the security arrangement two weeks ago, posted a best lap of title last year, was only tenth-fastest yesterday. for the England team,” Bangla- 2min, 1.21secs on a dry track in the on Friday, 0.803 seconds off Mar- desh Cricket Board (BCB) chief morning. quez’s speed. executive officer Nizamuddin But gastroenteritis forced him Sepang is among the trickiest Chowdhury said. to pull out of the afternoon session, tracks due to the tropical heat and Australia also refused to when Malaysia’s tropical rains left frequent rain. send their junior team to the ICC the track wet, putting the brakes on The track has been resurfaced Under-19 World Cup held in Bang- lap speeds. and some of its banking modified. Five-star Ali troubles ladesh earlier this year. Riders on Friday were getting Officials have said the re-sur- Carroll travelled with the acquainted with tweaked conditions facing will help hasten water England team on their way to including a surface repaving at the run-off and improve tyre grip. Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium Sepang International Circuit ahead But riders will be working over from their hotel to see for himself of tomorrow’s event. the next two days to determine Bangladesh on first day what kind of security measures Fellow Spaniard Maverick exactly how it will affect traction, had been put in place for the vis- Vinales of Suzuki, who is now speed and tyre wear, and whether iting side. fourth in the world championship the banking changes require mod- The bilateral series between standings, was 0.268 seconds off ified approaches to key turns. SCOREBOARD Bangladesh and Australia has now Marquez’s pace. Just ahead of Rossi on Friday A century by Tamim been shifted to August 2017. Britain’s Scott Redding was was Andrea Iannone, who is return- Bangladesh (I innings): 5-201, 6-202, 7-212, 8-213, 9-215, 10-220. third-fastest at a gap of 0.297 ing to competition in Sepang for the Iqbal not enough T Iqbal lbw Ali 104 Bowling: Woakes 9-3-30-3; Finn 8-1-30-0; seconds. first time since he suffered a ver- to hold off England I Kayes c Duckett b Woakes 1 Ali 19.5-5-57-5; Ansari 6-0-36-0; Stokes 11-5- 13-2; Rashid 10-0-44-0. Uncapped Mennie Marquez has an unassailable tebrae fracture in a crash in early Mominul Haque b Ali 66 57-point lead in the championship September. Like Marquez, he sat bowling attack as England (I innings): Mahmudullah c Cook b Stokes 13 in Australia squad standings but has vowed no let-up out the afternoon session, saying hosts lose last nine Alastair Cook lbw Mehedi 14 S Al Hasan c Bairstow b Woakes 10 in the final two races, at Sepang and he did not want to risk a tumble on B Duckett c Rahim b Shakib 7 next month at Valencia. the slick surface, according to Mot- wickets for 49 runs Mushfiqur Rahim c Cook b Ali 4 AFP J Root (batting) 15 “We’ll try here to push from the orsport.com. Sabbir Rahman c Bairstow b Stokes 0 G Ballance c Rahim b Mehedi 9 beginning again, but with a differ- “I’m very happy because this Shuvagata Hom c Bairstow b Woakes 6 ent result,” Marquez had said before morning I had a very good feeling Reuters M Ali (batting) 2 P E R T H : Uncapped paceman Joe Mehedi Hasan lbw Ali 1 practice. from the beginning with the bike,” Extras (B-1 LB-2) 3 Mennie was the surprise selec- Taijul Islam (not out) 5 “I’d like to finish as a minimum,” he said. Total (for 3 wkts) 50 tion in a 12-man Australia squad he said, a reference to his crashing “With my injury, I have pain, but Kamrul Islam c Root b Ali 0 named yesterday for next week’s Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-24, 3-42. out of the Australian Grand Prix last I manage very well at the moment. DHAKA: Bangladesh lost their last Extras (B-1 LB-9) 10 opening Test against South Africa To bat: B Stokes, J Bairstow, Z Ansari, C weekend. This is very important for all the nine wickets for 49 runs as England Total (all out) 220 Woakes, A Rashid, S Finn. in Perth, preferred to Jackson Bird. “But hopefully I’ll get on the weekend.” hit back from a slow start on the first The South Australian quick Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-171, 3-190, 4-196, day of the second and final Test in Bowling: Mehedi 6.3-1-26-2; Shakib 6-2-21-1. topped the domestic Sheffield Dhaka. Shield bowling list last season Tamim Iqbal hit 104 as Bang- and Mominul Haque (66) added 170 on 66, caught down the leg side with 51 wickets and recently ladesh cruised to 171 for one but for the second wicket despite losing off Stokes, a decision which was toured South Africa with the Aus- off-spinner Moeen Ali took five for Imrul Kayes in the third over of the overturned on review with replays tralian one-day side. 5-57 as the hosts crumbled to 220 day after skipper Mushfiqur Rahim confirming the ball had brushed his “Joe bowls a great length at a all out. had won the toss and opted to bat. shirt. Tamim fell leg before to Moeen lively pace and his form in first- England then lost three wickets, Tamim and Mominul took time after offering no shot to a straight class cricket has been terrific in including captain Alastair Cook for to settle but ensured England did not delivery. the last 12 months,” chief selec- 14 and were 50-3, 170 runs behind, have many opportunities to make Mominul was equally impres- tor Rod Marsh said. when rain brought an early end to further inroads in the first session. sive and his innings featured 10 fours “He also impressed us dur- the day’s play. The duo launched a coun- before he was bowled by Moeen with ing the recent Australia A series Joe Root (15) and Moeen (2) were ter-attack against some wayward a delivery that did not spin. in Queensland.” unbeaten for the touring side, who English bowling and were partic- Moeen also picked up the wicket Australia’s fast bowling depth lead the series 1-0. ularly rough on debutant left-arm of Mushfiqur, who had earlier is currently tested, with Pat Cum- On a manic opening day at the spinner Zafar Ansari, who replaced crashed to the ground after being mins and James Pattinson on the Shere Bangla National Stadium, off-spinner Gareth Batty in the side. hit on the side of his helmet by a sidelines and spearhead Mitchell the hosts collapsed either side of Ansari went for 36 runs in his six bouncer from Stokes. Starc and Peter Siddle both under- the tea break, triggered by Tamim’s overs in the first session and did not The paceman got the ball to done from injuries heading into dismissal after scoring his eighth bowl again. move both ways and accounted for the clash from Thursday at the hundred in tests. Tamim, who did not score off Mahmudullah and Sabbir Rahman, WACA Ground. Moeen began things with his first 19 balls, needed 60 deliv- both caught edging behind, to fur- AUSTRALIA - David Warner, Repsol Honda Team’s Spanish rider Tamim’s prized scalp as he picked eries to bring up his half-century ther Bangladesh’s collapse. Shaun Marsh, Usman Khawaja, Marc Marquez in action during the up his second five-wicket haul in and reached his century with two In reply, Shakib Al Hasan dis- Steve Smith (capt), Adam Voges, first practice session of the 2016 tests while paceman Chris Woakes consecutive boundaries off Moeen. missed Ben Duckett in his first over, Mitchell Marsh, Peter Nevill, Malaysian MotoGP at the Sepang also picked up three wickets. The left-hander hit 12 fours in the second of the innings, before Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, John International Circuit yesterday. Bangladesh looked in com- his 147-ball innings, which included Cook and Gary Ballance fell to teen- Hazlewood, Joe Mennie, Nathan plete control when Tamim (104) a reprieve when he was given out age off-spinner Mehedi Hasan. Lyon. Radwanska stands firm to reach Singapore semis Murray beats Simon for 16th time to reach Reuters Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland in action against Garbine Muguruza of Spain Vienna last-eight during the S ingapore WTA Finals Round Robin Singles at the Singapore Indoor Stadium yesterday. SINGAPORE: Poland’s Agnieszka AFP Radwanska stayed patient in the face of a barrage of big serving to advance to the last four of the VIENNA: Andy Murray defeated France’s Gilles Simon WTA Finals for the third time in for the 16th time on Thursday to reach the Vienna ATP a row with a 7-5 6-3 victory over quarter-finals and keep alive his bid to snatch Novak Karolina Pliskova yesterday. Djokovic’s world number one ranking. The defending champion The Olympic and Wimbledon champion eventually came into the contest with a triumphed 4-6, 6-2, 6-2 after two hours and 40 minutes 6-0 record against the powerful in a match which saw Murray commit an uncharac- Czech and maintained her domi- teristic 58 unforced errors. nance over last month’s losing US Simon was almost as sloppy, hitting just three fewer. Open finalist to set up a mouth- “It was a very long match, but I expected it to be watering semi-final against world very hard because it’s just that way against Gilles. You number one Angelique Kerber. Radwanska kept her composure relative comfort and as Pliskova’s to victory, which she sealed with her radar was off-target at the play a lot of long points. You feel like the harder you Earlier in the day, Garbine on the key points to advance. form dipped a fraction, Radwan- a deep forehand that her fifth- start of the second set when a sec- hit the ball, the harder it comes back,” said Murray. Muguruza ended her campaign Pliskova started strongly, rac- ska pounced to break again and ranked opponent could only blast ond double fault gifted Muguruza “You just have to try to use some variety, some slice with a 3-6, 6-0, 6-1 consolation ing through her service games seal the set with a sumptuous into the net. a break in the first game. and drop shots, and find that balance to get him out victory over Svetlana Kuznet- with ease and putting pressure on return winner. Kuznetsova started her pre- The French Open champion of his rhythm.” sova, who still emerged as the Radwanska, who was broken in While the tennis was not of vious two matches slowly but was suddenly back in the con- Murray, the 2014 champion in Vienna, goes on to White Group winner and will face the fifth game to fall 3-2 behind. the highest quality it was cer- she was quick out of the blocks test as Kuznetsova appeared to face John Isner on Friday for a place in the semi-finals. Dominika Cibulkova in the other Radwanska was creaking but tainly compelling, and with both against Muguruza, breaking the lose her range and focus, the tall If he wins the Vienna title and Paris crown next semi-final today. after staving off another threat, players struggling to hold, the Spaniard in the third game to Spaniard breaking twice more week, Murray could unseat Djokovic as world number After compiling identical 1-1 the defending champion capi- second set remained in the bal- move ahead before she repeated while holding comfortably to race one as long as the Serb star loses before the final in the records in their first two round talised on Pliskova’s first loose ance until a pair of failed smashes the feat in the ninth to wrap up through the set without dropping French capital. robin matches, both losing to service game of the contest to tie handed Radwanska a break in the the opener in 29 minutes. a game. Unseeded Serb Viktor Troicki earlier defeated third Kuznetsova but beating Mugu- the set at 4-4. As her first serve eighth game. The Pole immedi- The Russian had been fairly Muguruza carried the seeded Dominic Thiem of Austria 6-2, 7-5 a result ruza, yesterday’s contest was percentage improved, the Pole ately sent down her second ace untroubled on her serve, not even momentum into the decider to which qualified Gael Monfils into the eight-man field a winner-takes-all affair and held her next two games with of the match to set her on the way taken to deuce in the opener, but seal victory. at the season-ending ATP World Tour Finals in London. 22 SATURDAY 29 OCTOBER 2016 SPORT

Pulis signs one Guardiola plots City upturn as year extension with Albion Liverpool eyes top of the table AFP LONDON: West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis ended speculation about his West Brom manager Tony Pulis, season’s title race. Mauricio Pochet- future yesterday as he signed famed for his pragmatism is often tino’s men are a point off top spot and a one-year contract extension Jose Mourinho aims portrayed in England as the antithe- Ranieri has braced his players for a with the Premier League club. to uplift United’s sis to the stylish, idealistic Guardiola. battle. Albion are under new Chi- Despite being 13th in the table, “Spurs are the only unbeaten nese ownership and it had spirit as Jurgen West Brom have a better defensive team in the Premier League because been suggested Pulis might Klopp set to establish record than Manchester United and they have a very good squad. They part ways with the Baggies Liverpool, and have lost only once at can change and rotate,” said the after expressing his dis- his team as a title home this season. Italian. pleasure at the lack of quality contenders “Every game this season, we’ve “Tottenham are a fantastic team. signings in the last transfer been in,” said Pulis. “There’s not been Last year they were very close to us window. a game we’ve not been in and that’s and will continue to fight for the Pulis was reported to have AFP testament to the players.” title.” clashed with chairman John Buoyed by their derby victory A late slump saw Tottenham Williams over the failure to over City, United will look to get their pipped to second place by their North land his targets, while some league campaign back on track at London rivals Arsenal, whose early- fans are unhappy with his LONDON: Pep Guardiola takes Man- home to Burnley. season form suggests they could be brand of conversative football. chester City to West Bromwich Albion Jose Mourinho’s side were bat- poised to go one better this term. But the 58-year-old is in the Premier League today still try- tered 4-0 by his former club Chelsea A six-game winning run came to set to stay at the Hawthorns ing to figure out how to lift the club last weekend, but Luke Shaw believes an end in last weekend’s 0-0 draw until 2018 after agreeing with out of their autumn downturn. the victory over City, courtesy of Juan with Middlesbrough, but Arsene Albion owner Guochuan Laito Scintillating over the season’s Mata’s second-half goal, could prove Wenger’s team beat Reading in the to extend his previous deal, early weeks, which saw them win a turning point. League Cup in mid-week and now which was due to expire at their first 10 games, they have now “It was very important,” said the face a Sunderland side rooted to the Liverpool’s manager Manchester City the end of this season. gone six matches without victory, England left-back. “We saw Guardi- base of the table. Jurgen Klopp manager Pep Guardiola “This is a time of great culminating in Wednesday’s 1-0 ola said it was like a final and to us “I think the spirit is really good change at Albion and when League Cup defeat at Manchester that is what it felt like. To get the win in the team,” said midfielder Alex that happens you need con- United. was massive. Oxlade-Chamberlain, who scored Albion 2-1 in the Premier League last tinuity,” Pulis told Albion’s While they remain top of the “(It was) a big confidence boost both goals in the 2-0 win over Saturday, Liverpool manager Jurgen EPL FIXTURES website. league table on goal difference, City’s after obviously the disappointing Reading. Klopp fielded a completely different “As I have said from the swashbuckling form has petered out result that we bounced back, got a “Even when we drew with Mid- starting 11 against Tottenham Hot- Today (1400 GMT) outset, I want to build things and left-back Gael Clichy hopes their win and now we need to go on a win- dlesbrough on the weekend, it was spur in the EFL Cup on Tuesday, and Crystal Palace vs Liverpool (16:30) here and play my part in luck changes soon. ning streak.” almost like we lost the game. It shows secured another 2-1 victory. Manchester United vs Burnley improving the club. You can- “We gave everything and at the United go into the weekend in how hungry this team are to win. Most of those who impressed on Sunderland vs Arsenal (11:30) not do these things overnight moment we are not getting what we seventh place, six points behind lead- “We’re in a spell where we feel Tuesday, among them 18-year-olds Tottenham vs Leicester but I do believe, step by step, deserve,” the France international ers City, Arsenal and Liverpool. like we should be winning every Ovie Ejaria and Trent Alexander- West From vs Manchester City we are making advances. told the City website. But they are better off than game and we can win every game, Arnold, will return to the fringes this Middlesbrough vs Bournemouth Former Stoke boss Pulis, “Lately, the results and the points defending champions Leicester City, so that’s a good thing.” weekend, but their brilliant perform- Watford vs Hull who has been with Albion are not on board. We have to keep who sit three points below them in Liverpool will look to underline ance might earn them a call again . Tomorrow since January 2015, has over- working and we’re sure we’re going 12th place with just three wins from the strength of their squad when they Fourth-place Chelsea, dumped Everton vs West Ham (13:30 GMT) seen just two wins in nine to get there. their opening nine games. continue their Premier League title out of the League Cup by West Ham Southampton vs Chelsea (16:00 GMT) league games this season and “If we are a bit more clinical play- Today also Claudio Ranieri’s challenge away to Crystal Palace United on Wednesday, travel to Monday (20:00 GMT) his team are only three points ing forward and more compact as a side travel to Tottenham Hotspur, today. Having survived a nervous fin- Southampton. Stoke vs Swansea above the relegation zone. team, maybe we can do better.” who threatened to pip them in last ish as his team beat West Bromwich

New China coach Lippi looks to Real hope misfiring Ronaldo to catch fire restore confidence AFP LA LIGA FIXTURES than capable of causing an upset as Reuters (ALL TIMES GMT) they shocked Barcelona at the Camp Nou last month and drew away to Atletico Madrid on the opening day of BEIJING: Marcello Lippi said his MADRID: Real Madrid are hoping Cris- Today the season. first priority as China coach is to tiano Ronaldo can end a lean period in Sporting Gijon vs Sevilla (11:00) Sevilla are Real’s surprise closest restore some confidence to his front of goal as they attempt to keep Alaves vs Real Madrid (14:15) challengers and can go top for at least players as he looks to breathe their noses in front of a tight five-way Atletico Madrid vs Malaga (16:30) a couple of hours with victory at Sport- some life into their faltering cam- race atop La Liga at Alaves today. Barcelona vs Granada (18:45) ing Gijon earlier today. paign to qualify for the 2018 World Madrid bounced back from a four- Tomorrow Barcelona and Villarreal sit just two Cup. game draw streak in style by scoring points back from Madrid with Atletico The 68-year-old, who guided 20 goals in winning their last four out- Eibar vs Villarreal (11:00) Madrid a point further adrift in fifth. Italy to World Cup glory in 2006, ings to move back top of the table and Athletic Bilbao vs Osasuna (15:15) Barca have the easiest task of the was named China coach last take big strides towards progress in the Real Betis vs Espanyol (17:30) title contenders on paper this week- weekend and has two weeks to Champions League and Copa del Rey. Las Palmas vs Celta Vigo (19:45) end when winless Granada visit the get his side ready for their next However, Ronaldo has scored just Monday Camp Nou. qualifier against Qatar in Kun- one of those 20 and his return of four Deportivo la Coruna vs Valencia (19:45) The champions have just 16 fit first ming on Nov. 15. goals from nine appearances is by a team players with Andres Iniesta, Ger- “We need to play one match at distance his worst strike rate at this ard Pique, Jordi Alba, Jeremy Mathieu a time, we need to face Qatar next stage of the campaign since joining and Arda Turan all sidelined through month and we hope that through Madrid seven years ago. on Wednesday to move ahead of Ron- injury. However, by contrast to Ronal- this match the members of the Ronaldo was even whistled by aldo with six goals this season. do’s struggles, Lionel Messi is in fine national team can get some con- Real’s demanding fanbase at the San- Zidane is expected to resort to the goalscoring form as he and Luis Suarez fidence and self-esteem back,” he tiago Bernabeu during last weekend’s side that started against Bilbao as Ron- lead La Liga’s scoring charts on seven told reporters at a news confer- 2-1 win over Athletic Bilbao. aldo, Bale, Benzema, Marcelo, Mateo despite the Argentine missing a month ence yesterday. “I would prefer him to score two or Kovacic and Raphael Varane were all of action due to a groin injury. Lippi is China’s third coach three goals in every match, but I am not rested in midweek. Atletico will be favoured to bounce this year and takes over with worried because I know it will pass,” Alaves have only won twice in their back from their first defeat of the sea- the country bottom of their six- said Real boss Zinedine Zidane. first nine games on their return to the son at Sevilla last weekend when team, third round Asian qualifying Alvaro Morata came off the bench top flight for the first time in a decade. Malaga visit the Vicente Calderon. Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo (top) in action during their La group with one draw and three to grab a late winner against Athletic Yet former Valencia and Liverpool Meanwhile, Villarreal will put their Liga match against Athletic Bilbao at the Santiago Bernabeu defeats after four of their 10 and also struck twice in a 7-1 mauling defender Mauricio Pellegrino’s men unbeaten record on the line at Eibar scheduled matches. Stadium in Madrid, Spain, in this file photo of October 23, 2016. of Cultural Leonesa in the Copa del Rey have already proved they are more tomorrow. Al Shaqab Racing’s Khataab wins first group race in Toulouse

The Peninsula cantered in fourth position dur- France, the Stud has had a great ing the race. success with its first generations In the final phase, he had to on the racetrack. Motrag and fight with Samima, a double Gr1 Zikreet took the first two places TOULOUSE: Toulouse racetrack, PA winner. He finally won by three in the Qatar Arabian Trophy des South West of France, hosted one quarters of a length. Poulains (Gr1 PA). Samaa won the of the main events of the European This victory is a huge sat- Qatar Arabian Trophy des Pouli- season for purebred Arabians, with isfaction for all of Khataab’s ches (Gr 1 PA). Jeyoosh finished four Group races on Thursday. connections, especially as he took second of the Qatar Arabian Tro- In the French Arabian Breed- two close third places in his last phy des Juments de 4 ans (Gr1 PA) ers’ Challenge Classic (Gr2 PA), a two starts, the Qatar Derby des in October. race for 4-year-olds over 2,000 Pur-sang Arabes de 4 Ans (Gr1 PA) Tayf was the runner-up of The meters, the Al Shaqab Racing- and the UK Arabian Derby (Gr1 PA). President of the UAE Cup (Gr1 PA) owned by Khataab landed his Khataab was bred by Alban in September and came third in the Al Shaqab Racing-owned by Khataab heading the race to win the French Arabian Breeders’ Challenge Classic first success at the Group level. de Mieulle, at the Haras du Grand Qatar Arabian World Cup (Gr1 PA), The Thomas Fourcy-trained colt Courgeon. Located in the West of in October. (Gr2 PA), a race for 4-year-olds over 2,000 meters, in Toulouse, France on Thursday. SPORT SATURDAY 29 OCTOBER 2016 23 Asian Athletics aligned with Coe’s proposal for reforms

youth population lives in Asia, but World athletics boss we have to implement the proper programme in order to help them admits concerns over develop and achieve better results.” Talking about the ongoing fight WADA Rio Olympic Action from the Qatar Stars League (QSL) match between El Jaish against doping President Al Hamad Games findings stressed that extra action of all con- and Umm Salal at Lekhwiya Stadium yesterday. El Jaish won 4-2. cerned parties needs to be taken: In the other match, Lekhwiya won 4-1 against Al Arabi. “UN and other organisations The Peninsula are supporting the anti-doping fight. Most nations have introduced Romarinho’s hat-trick new anti-doping legislation, but we mustn’t be complacent. Presi- DOHA: Asian Athletics Association dent’s reform proposal includes the (AAA) supports the general princi- formation of a new independent Ath- helps El Jaish go top ples of Sebastian Coe’s proposal for leticsIntegrity Unit. We have to give governance structure reforms, AAA them freedom and time to work on The Peninsula Mohamed Al-Yazidi was brought President Dahlan Al Hamad stated at the anti-doping issue.” down again in the area for a a post Council Meeting press confer- Coe admitted yesterday that penalty. ence here yesterday. reports from the World Anti-Doping DOHA: El Jaish beat Umm Salal Romarinho stepped up and Asia’s top athletics officials, rep- Agency alleging serious drug testing 4-2 at Lekhwiya Stadium yester- converted from the spot to make resenting more than 40 nations, IAAF President Sebastian Coe (left) and Asian Athletics Association failings at the Rio Olympics made for day to end the Orange Fortress’s it 3-0 with a powerful strike debated on the reform plans per- (AAA) President Dahlan Al Hamad. “uncomfortable reading”. unbeaten run in the Qatar Stars that left the goalkeeper with no sonally presented by IAAF President Coe said it was right the failings League (QSL). chance. Sebastian Coe at the 85th AAA Coun- reforms in order to come up with the of athletics in Asia, AAA President were made public. Sabri Lamouchi’s side now To add to what was already cil meeting held in Doha and agreed proper decision. commented: “We have managed “The only thing I would say is I have four wins from five matches a dismal second half for Umm to be aligned with the reforms. “It is plain to see that the new to keep our partners and sponsors welcome reports like that, sometimes and took their points tally to 13 Salal, Romarinho sealed his hat- Nevertheless, Asian Athletics structure gives more power and warm, or even attract new to support they are uncomfortable reading, but points. trick on the 61st minute after the governing body decided to urgently prerogatives to the Assembly, while our activities, such as the Marathons. I would rather have those sorts of After a balanced opening 10 Brazilian found himself on the establish a committee to further dis- the power of individual officials is “Within our plans is to attract observations,” said the president of minutes, El Jaish began dominat- end of a pin point cross from cuss the proposal. diminished,” explained Al Hamad, the new generation with a new IAAF. ing possession and the first clear Murah Naji, leaping above two Another AAA committee will who thanked in his introduction, programme in collaboration with Although Coe added that he had cut chance of the game came on defenders to head a powerful also create a short-term execution Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Ministries of Education in order to not seen the report himself yet, the the 17th minute when their Bra- header home and all but see off plan for the evaluation of the events President Sheikh Joann bin Hamad identify talents that will emerge in former middle-distance runner said zilian danger man, Romarinho, the tie. in the region and for developing the Al Thani for hosting such a crucial the near future. Our initiatives rely such “intelligence” was vital so ath- found himself on the end of a Umm Salal had a late rally athletics within Asia over the next athletics meeting in Doha. on the “Kids Athletics” programme– letics can catch drug cheats. lovely chipped pass into the 18 after an 86th minute penalty three years. Lord Coe’s reform proposal rede- which not only help in promoting The report, by independent yard box. The former Corinthi- from IsmailMahmoud made it “Our sport came through a trou- fines roles and responsibilities and Athletics, but generally guides chil- observers sent to the Games by an’s player was unable to find the 4-1, and an 89th minute goal from bled period, which made people cast aims for a greater voice for athletes, dren in the world of sports. Any plan WADA and published on Thurs- target and his volleyed shot went on-loan SC Braga midfielder, Alef doubtsover the athletics’ ability to a better gender balance, as well as not aiming at the new generation has day, uncovered “serious logistical well wide of the post. Santos, made it 4-2. Despite the survive the hazard. The response for independent anti-doping, integ- no hope or future.” failings” in Olympics’ anti-doping Umm Salal, who were late surge, it finished 4-2 and El though was swift as we all witnessed rity and disciplinary functions. “Last year we introduced the first efforts. without their commanding Jaish will sit atop of the table. at the Rio Olympics, with large “We back President’s plan and ever Asian Youth Championships in It found cases where athletes tar- goalkeeper Baba Malick, Yan- Today, Al Gharafa takes on crowds and top level competition. totally support his presidency. Some Doha, giving youngsters from all geted for testing “could not be found”, nick Sagbo, began to play on the Al Sadd, in what promises to be “We would like to thank Sebas- Area representation-wise issues are nations the chance to make their and a lack of adequately trained anti- counter and after 23 minutes, a fascinating clash between two tian Coe for being here with us to still under discussions. We raised international debut. The success of doping personnel. their in-form Tha’er Bawab found old QSL rivals. clarify his proposal, which aims to some concerns, which are minor and the Doha initiative encouraged more Coe is pushing for an independ- himself with the ball at his feet Gharafa head coach Pedro further promote the sport worldwide. will surely be resolved. We will go countries to ask for hosting the event. ent drugs testing regime as part of just eight yards from goal after Caixinia assured his side has This project will affect the future of along with the reforms and we will We are now in talks with broadcast- his overhaul of world athletics at number 11, Hilal Mohammed, enjoyed a good run against Al athletics. We discussed about all try to adapt,” added Al Hamad. ers to secure full TV coverage.” an IAAF extraordinary congress on cleverly dummied a low driving Sadd recently. positive and negative aspects of the In regards to the development “Sixty percent of the world’s December 3. cross. Despite Bawab managing “When we face the top 4 to control the cross, he was una- teams we have good results and ble to get a shot off before Jaish I believe that will be the same defender Murah Naji made a fine going into the match against Al block. Sadd. First time we played them Nissan’s Adel off to a good With 30 minutes gone, El we drew 1-1 and the second time Jaish managed to break the dead- we lost in the Emir Cup so we are lock and take the lead. Umm in good form against Al Sadd.” start at Baja Portalegre 500 Salal’s Ismail Mahmoud brought The Portuguese tactician also down El Jaish’s Mohamed Al- stressed that his side are aiming Yazidi on the edge of the 18 yard to strike first against the cur- The Peninsula entrants who have knowledge of box and gifted The Soldiers a rent QSL league leaders, and is the area and the rural terrain that free kick in a dangerous area. targeting a victory to kick start is used for the route for the tradi- Dead-ball specialist, Romarinho, their campaign. tional FIA World Cup finale. stepped up to take the free kick “I’m not happy on taking a EVORA, PORTUGAL: Nissan’s Adel Running with support from Nis- and his looping right foot strike point from this game. Not the Hussein Abdulla began his challenge san Middle East, Nissan Qatar and smashed into the crossbar. moment, we are only thinking for honours at the 30th Baja Por- the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle The rebound fell kindly for El about three points. When we talegre 500 in Portugal by tackling Federation (QMMF), Adel Hussein Jaish’s Captain Seydou Keita, who played last season against the top a testing 5.62km super special stage lies second in the points’ stand- managed to stab home his own sides they often scored first and at Coutades yesterday. ings and he and French navigator rebound on the 31st minute after we managed to draw so right now The Qatari is aiming to round off Sébastien Delaunay are targeting also hitting the bar with his first we are aiming to score first in this his season-long challenge for FIA T2 a maximum points’ haul to keep attempt. The first half finished match. Sadd are one of the best honours in the FIA World Cup for alive their chance of snatching the one nil to Jaish but the score soon teams in Qatar who are in good Cross-Country Rallies with a cate- T2 title. doubled after the referee blew for form right now, but they have gory win and the Doha-based driver “I am very satisfied with the the second half and after a mere weaknesses we will be looking steered his Nissan Patrol to the third result on the super special stage,” 30 seconds, El Jaish made it 2-0 to exploit going into the tie.” quickest time of five minutes 36.73 said Adel Hussein. “I was not push- as Keita made it a goal and an His opposite number Jesaldo seconds. ing at all and was taking it steady assist with a lovely cut back to Ferriera said: “Al Gharafa are a Portugal’s César Sequiera and driving cleanly. The car feels Romarinho who found himself strong team, despite the results clocked the fastest time to snatch very comfortable with the new in acres of space, calmly finishing they have had. They have played the early advantage and Saudi Ara- Reiger suspension. The aim is to the ball from 12 yards out. well, and their performances bia’s Abdullah Saleh was second. try and win.” Things went from bad to have not reciprocated the result. Fourteen drivers from Portu- After a longer selective section Romarinho of El Jaish celebrates with a team-mate after scoring a goal worse for the Orange Fortress They have good players and are gal, Italy, Qatar, Belgium, Saudi of 83.94km yesterday, cars reach the against Umm Salal in the Qatar Stars League match at Lekhwiya Stadium. and just two minutes later, organized in defense.” Arabia and Sweden entered the overnight halt at the Nerpor facil- hotly-contested T2 category on ity, near Evora, and then tackle this occasion and Adel knows that two further selective sections of it will not be easy to beat some of 171.47km and 211.94km today. The the European drivers, particular event is scheduled to finish for the several of the seven Portuguese FIA entrants today at Nerpor. InterCon Hotels Group and Mitsubishi Motors launch IHG Qatar Mixed Open

The Peninsula from the Gulf region competing in a raised will go to two important Manager at Qatar Automobiles Com- two-day golfing agenda including a organizations: the first one is “IHG pany added: “Like IHG we also share complimentary practice round fol- Foundation” to support victims of the same values of corporate social DOHA: The 15th IHG Qatar Mixed lowed by one tournament round natural disasters worldwide and the responsibility, promoting sports and Open, represented by InterConti- played in “Greensomes” format second organization is “Qatar Can- a healthy lifestyle, and giving back to nental Doha, InterContinental Doha over the Championship Course at cer Society” The Society is one of the society; this year we have allo- The City and Crowne Plaza Doha The the exclusive Doha Golf Club. the leading humanitarian organiza- cated 3 valuable prizes to be put up Business Park, in association with The annual event, a high- tions in Qatar which pledges to work for auction so we can try to raise as Mitsubishi Motors was held at Doha light on Doha Golf Club’s calendar, towards increasing public awareness much funds possible for these noble Golf Club. also allows GCC golfers to play on about cancer and cancer prevention”, causes. Prizes awarded included the The tournament was officially a world-class, Peter Harradine commented Cyril Mouawad, Resident top 5 couples and special prizes such launched at InterContinental Doha in designed Championship Golf Course. Manager of InterContinental Doha as the most exercised couples, the the presence of VIPs, corporate exec- “As part of our “responsible Mitsubishi Motors is sponsoring longest drive, and nearest to the pin utives, and media representatives. business” strategic vision, we con- this prestigious tournament for a 4th at a prize giving ceremony followed Nissan’s Adel Hussein Abdulla began his challenge in the 30th Baja The tournament attracted a top tinue with our charity auction on year in a row, speaking at the press by a lavish dinner, both held at Doha Portalegre 500 in Portugal yesterday. class amateur field of 200 golfers the awards night where the funds conference, Ihab El Feky, General Golf Club.