CRICKET | Page 3 FFOOTBALLOOTBALL | Page 7 DRS set for Manchester busy baptism To Advertise here City look to Call: 444 11 300, 444 66 621 on India’s cap week to turning tracks remember

Saturday, November 5, 2016 BOXING Safar 5, 1438 AH Pacquiao can’t GULF TIMES take Vargas for granted in return SPORT Page 4

FOOTBALL Bengaluru aim to make AFC Cup history in Doha ‘As professionals, the players know that we have a tough team up against us’

IANS Doha Bengaluru FC players go through their drills at a Winners to hit $1mn jackpot training session in Doha yesterday. engaluru FC will be aiming Doha: A whopping $1mn awaits “I wish them all the very best. In my to script history by becom- Bengaluru FC in prize money if they time with the AIFF (All India Football ing the fi rst Indian football manage to clinch the AFC Cup here Federation), there hasn’t been a more Bclub to win the Asian Football today against Iraq’s Air Force Club. important occasion,” added Dhar. Confederation (AFC) Cup when they The runners-up will bag half a million Century-old Kolkata club Moham- take on Iraqi outfi t Air Force Club in dollars. medan Sporting SC sent a mail to Ben- the fi nal here today. This is the first time an Indian club has galuru FC off icials wishing them luck. The match will be played at the made it to the final of an AFC competi- “The executive committee members of Suheim bin Hamad Stadium (Qatar tion. Previously, Dempo (2008) and the Mohammedan Sporting Club wish Sports Club) at 7pm. East Bengal (2013) have reached the you all the very best for the 2016 AFC Both sides will be playing their semi-finals of the AFC Cup. Cup Final against Air Force Club,” the maiden fi nal, and all eyes will be on “The entire country is behind them. letter from president Sultan Ahmed Bengaluru in what is their most im- They have vindicated our decision read. portant match in their three-year his- few years back to give them direct “You have worked hard for this day. tory. entry and are now a template for other Believe in yourself and in what you Two I-League titles and a Federa- clubs to follow in India,” I-League CEO can achieve, give the final match your tion Cup are already in the southern Sunando Dhar told IANS. hundred percent and put your best outfi t’s cabinet in such a short span of Bengaluru FC, in their three years foot forward and we know you will time, but their show in the continen- of existence, have won the I-League come out with flying colours. Good tal tournament this time has turned twice and the Federation Cup once. luck to you.” many heads at a time when the sport in the country in going through a tran- sition. important players for Air Force Club, Club. The most important thing is to Bengaluru surprised reigning AFC netting three goals in the continental be as prepared as possible,” Roca said Cup champions Johor Darul Ta’zim meet this year. yesterday. 4-2 on aggregate during the semi-fi nal Meanwhile, Saaed played in 10 AFC “There’s no pressure. All the games stage. Captain Sunil Chhetri scored a Cup matches for the Iraqi team and is I’ve been in charge here have been im- brace in the second leg at home be- their fi rst choice centre-back. portant games and I can say that these coming their top-scorer with fi ve Bengaluru, on their part, will miss players are up for the task and they’re goals to his name. the services of fi rst-choice goalkeeper ready to go.” What should work in favour of Ben- Amrinder Singh who is suspended. The tournament’s leading scorer galuru, who have peaked just at the Defender Shankar Sampingiraj, mid- Hammadi Ahmed insisted they will right time, is injury an injury crisis fi elder Darren Caldeira and full back need to raise their game ahead of the that the Iraqis are battling. Infl uential Lalchhuanmawia Fanai are also yet to title clash. AFC chief Sheikh Salman to attend match midfi elder Bashar Rasan and centre- completely recover from their injuries. “We have to fi ght hard and lift our But the crux of the team remains the level on Saturday because it’s the fi nal Doha: AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khali- attempt to be the first clubs in their respective countries to ‘There’s no pressure. All same with the likes of Udanta Singh of the AFC Cup competition,” Ahmed fah will attend the AFC Cup final match between Air Force win the title for the first time. the games I’ve been in charge also on hand to make an impact from was quoted as saying in AFC’s offi cial Club of Iraq and India’s JSW Bengaluru FC at the Suheim bin Sheikh Salman also noted that this year’s final carried addi- here have been important the bench. website yesterday. Hamad Stadium today. tional importance with the new increase in prize money, as games and I can say that these Bengaluru coach Albert Roca said “We will look to reduce our mis- Sheikh Salman hoped that the match will showcase high- part of the AFC’s eff orts to strengthen the competition. players are up for the task and his team is under no pressure and they takes, and although we must respect level competition, bring excitement to Asian football fans, The AFC President stressed that regardless of the winner, they’re ready to go’ will prepare the game to the best of our opponents we must focus very and reflect the abilities and determination of Asian clubs. the biggest aspirations for this year’s final was to reflect their ability. strongly in the game.” The AFC President stressed that the two teams deserved Asian football’s principles of fair play and the passionate back Samal Saaed are doubtful for the “It’s an important game and the Ahmed’s clinical fi nishing in front their places in the final following an impressive run of re- support for the game. Sheikh Salman confirmed that all match. players know it but at the end of it all, of goal have been a big part of Air Force sults throughout the campaign, adding that the two teams necessary preparations for the AFC Cup final had been The 19-year-old Bashar recently it’s just another game. As profession- Club’s success in this year’s edition of have the capabilities to produce a captivating finale, as they finalised by the AFC. made his debut for the Iraqi national als, the players know that we have a the AFC Cup with his 15 strikes com- team. He fast became one of the most tough team up against us in Air Force ing from just 10 appearances.

CRICKET SA fi ght back but Steyn out for six months

would not take further part in the lost four wickets for just 23 runs. AFP SCORECARD Perth three-Test series.He faces sur- Warner said the collapse con- gery and is likely to be sidelined tinued a frustrating trend of mid- for at least six months.Steyn dle order collapses for the Aus- South Africa first innings 242 Rabada 20-1-78-2 (2nb), Maharaj outh Africa overcame the pulled up sore after the fourth ball tralians. Australia first innings 18.2-5-56 loss of star paceman Dale of his 13th over, having been by far “I feel there has been a trend D. Warner c Amla b Steyn ...... 97 Steyn to another shoulder the most menacing of the South for 12 or 18 months and it is tough S. Marsh lbw b Philander ...... 63 South Africa second innings Sinjury to produce a stun- African bowlers to that stage. to see as an opening batter when U. Khawaja b Rabada ...... 4 S. Cook c S Marsh b Siddle ...... 12 ning comeback on the second day With 417 Test wickets, Steyn is we fall away that easily. S. Smith lbw b Maharaj ...... 0 D. Elgar not out ...... 46 of the opening Test against Aus- just four shy of Shaun Pollock’s “We have to knuckle down as A. Voges c and b Rabada ...... 27 H. Amla b Hazlewood ...... 1 tralia in Perth yesterday. record haul for South Africa. a batting unit and build partner- M. Marsh lbw b Philander ...... 0 JP. Duminy not out ...... 34 In reply to South Africa’s 242, In his absence, Vernon Phi- ships.” Warner has 768 runs in P. Nevill c Amla b Maharaj ...... 23 Extras (lb5, w5, nb1) ...... 11 Australia were cruising at 158 for lander (4-56), Kagiso Rabada (2- Tests in Perth at 96 apiece and his M. Starc c du Plessis b Maharaj 0 Total (two wickets, 40 overs) ..... none early on day two, but then 78) and debutant spinner Keshav opening partnership with Shaun P. Siddle not out ...... 18 ...... 104 lost all 10 wickets for just 86 runs Maharaj (3-56) exposed the home Marsh (63) was a record for Aus- J. Hazlewood c Duminy b Fall of wickets: 1-35 (Cook), 2-45 to lead by only two after the fi rst side’s batting frailty. tralia against the Proteas at the Philander ...... 4 (Amla) innings. Philander said the loss of Steyn ground. The dashing left-hander N. Lyon c Elgar b Philander ...... 0 Bowling: Starc 9-4-18-0, At stumps on the second day, motivated the Proteas. appeared certain to score his Extras (lb3, nb5) ...... 8 Hazlewood 10-2-31-1 (1nb), Siddle the visitors were 104 for two, an South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada celebrates after taking a catch to dismiss “We had a job in hand to get the fourth Test century at the venue, Total (all out, 70.2 overs) ...... 244 8-4-12-1, Marsh 4-1-11-0 (5w), Lyon overall lead of 102 and arguably Australia’s Adam Voges at the WACA Ground in Perth yesterday. Aussies out as cheap as possible but was caught at fi rst slip by Fall of wickets: 1-158 (Warner), 9-2-27-0 in the favoured position in the and it was a job well done by the Hashim Amla and his dismissal 2-167 (Khawaja), 3-168 (Smith), Toss: South Africa match, which seemed unthink- was soured by news that Steyn David Warner for 97, and did not rest of the bowlers.” sparked a remarkable period of 4-181 (S Marsh), 5-181 (M Umpires: Aleem Dar (PAK) and able 24 hours earlier. would miss the remainder of the return for the remainder of the Philander said he was also keen play. Marsh), 6-202 (Voges), 7-203 Nigel Llong (ENG) Dean Elgar was on 46 and JP series. innings. The 33-year-old hurt the to atone after his no-ball cost the Just eight runs later, Steyn left (Starc), 8-232 (Nevill), 9-243 TV umpire: Richard Duminy was on 34. That pair had Steyn left the fi eld for scans on same shoulder late last year and Proteas the early wicket of Warn- the fi eld mid-over, after reinjur- (Hazlewood), 10-244 (Lyon) Kettleborough (ENG) added 59 after the Proteas lost his troublesome right shoulder missed several months of cricket, er on the fi rst day. ing his troublesome right shoul- Bowling: Steyn 12.4-3-51-1, Match referee: Andy Pycroft two early second innings wickets, before lunch, just after claiming and it was confi rmed late in the Australia, who were in total der in an around-the-wicket de- Philander 19.2-2-56-4 (3nb), (ZIM) but their remarkable fi ghtback the wicket of Australian opener day he had a crack in a bone and control before Warner fell, then livery to Usman Khawaja. Gulf Times 2 Saturday, November 5, 2016 CRICKET

FOCUS Windies defeat is a ‘wake-up call’ for Pakistan, says Tiny ‘misjudgement’ coach Arthur caused Phillip Hughes’

AFP death, rules coroner Sharjah akistan coach Mickey Arthur said his team had been given ‘A minuscule misjudgement or a slight error of execution caused him to miss the ball which Pa wake-up call for their tours of New Zealand and Australia after they crashed into his neck with fatal consequences. There was no suggestion the ball was bowled became the West Indies’ first Test victims in 18 months. with malicious intent. Neither the bowler nor anyone else was to blame for the tragic outcome’ Pakistan had already clinched the series by winning the first two Tests, but Kraigg Brathwaite’s heroics earned AFP applied didn’t require him to do so,” a much-needed consolation victory for Sydney he said. “However, had he even been the West Indies in the third and final wearing that most modern equipment Test at Sharjah. then available, it would not have pro- “It is a wake-up call,” Arthur told AFP. ustralian batsman Phil- tected the area of his body where the “Hopefully that gives the shock to the lip Hughes (pic) made a fatal blow landed.” players they needed before our tough “minuscule misjudgement” At the time, Hughes was wearing a tours to New Zealand and Australia.” before he was fatally struck helmet which was not compliant with West Indies won the match by five Aby a cricket ball, a coroner ruled yes- the more recent, and stringent, Brit- wickets on Thursday after they dismissed terday, attaching no blame to the bowl- ish Standard, which extends the grille Pakistan for below-par totals of 282 and er, verbal abuse or the tactic of sending protecting the face further to the rear 208. Brathwaite guided his team to their down short-pitched deliveries. of the helmet. first victory in 14 Tests as he became the Hughes, who played 26 Tests, died Since the incident, Cricket Aus- first opener in Test history to carry his from bleeding on the brain in Novem- tralia has recommended all fi rst-class bat in both innings, compiling unbeaten ber 2014 after being hit on the neck by cricketers in Australia wear helmets scores of 142 and 60. a rising ball from Sean Abbott while made to British safety standards while Pakistan will now play two Tests in batting in a domestic match at the batting against medium or fast bowl- New Zealand, the first in Christchurch Sydney Cricket Ground. ing, in nets and games. starting from November 17 and the sec- The death of the popular 25-year- Barnes said authorities should ond in Hamilton from November 25. old, who had risen through the ranks continue working with sports equip- Pakistan then move on to Australia to play for his country, stunned Aus- ment manufacturers to develop a neck for a three-Test series, starting with tralia and the world cricket commu- guard that is comfortable and pro- a day-night match in Brisbane from nity, sparking an outpouring of grief. vides better protection, with the view December 15. “A minuscule misjudgement or a to it becoming mandatory. “It’s a good wake-up call and just slight error of execution caused him Cricket Australia chief executive says that if you’re off your discipline in to miss the ball which crashed into his James Sutherland said he would work international cricket at any time you can neck with fatal consequences,” said to implement all the coronial recom- be beaten,” said Arthur, who took over in New South Wales coroner Michael mendations “as soon as practical”. May. “We certainly took the pedal off the Barnes in long-awaited fi ndings. “We want to do everything we can accelerator in this game and were below “There was no suggestion the ball was to avoid this sort of thing happening in standards and intensity,” he added. bowled with malicious intent. Nei- again in the future,” he said. Arthur also warned Pakistan could ther the bowler nor anyone else was to After Hughes was hit, fellow crick- expect a tough tour, starting with New blame for the tragic outcome.” eters and medical staff raced to help Zealand who will look to hit back hard During the inquest concerns had him but the fi rst person to call for an after being routed 3-0 in India last month. been raised by Hughes’ family about ambulance was unaware of the sever- “Any team in their conditions is ex- on-fi eld sledging, or verbal abuse, ity of the injury and it took about an tremely hard to play,” said Arthur. “If you including threats against him, and hour to get him to hospital. look around the international cricket the amount of short, fast deliveries the laws of the game contributed to “so the threats could not be implicat- He added that the death would not Barnes commended the response as at the moment there is no easy bait in he faced which they felt the umpires his death,” he said, but recommended ed in his death”. have been prevented even if Hughes “to the best of their abilities” but said their own conditions so it’s going to be could have stopped. the laws around dangerous and un- But Barnes expressed hope that the was wearing more modern head pro- emergency procedures at grounds at five tough matches for us.” But Barnes said neither aff ected fair bowling be reviewed by Cricket focus on this “unsavoury aspect” of tection, and that a quicker medical re- the time were concerning. He said um- Hughes’ composure, and he had been Australia to clear up any ambiguity in the game might cause players to think sponse would also have made no dif- pires should be better trained to deal Santner ruled out of fi rst Test comfortably dealing with the short- their wording. again before abusing opponents. “An ference to the “unsurvivable” injuries. with such situations and that Cricket pitched balls “because of his very high He made no fi nding on whether outsider is left to wonder why such “Phillip wasn’t wearing the most NSW should implement a daily medi- New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner level of skill and competence”. sledging occurred, but said even if it a beautiful game would need such an up-to-date safety helmet when he cal briefi ng to ensure everyone was has been ruled out of this month’s “I conclude no failure to enforce did it did not aff ect his composure and ugly underside,” he said. was struck and the rules that then knew what to do in an emergency. opening Test against Pakistan with a fractured wrist, the country’s cricket board said yesterday. The 24-year-old left-armer was struck on his right wrist SPORTS TRAGEDIES THAT PROMPTED SAFETY RE-THINKS while training with the Northern Dis- tricts and is also doubtful for the second An Australian coroner ruled yesterday should be worn by batsmen and fielders near the loss of six lives and five boats after the fleet was as a result of injuries sustained in a world title match of the two-Test series. that Phillip Hughes’ death aft er being hit wicket. It also said a defibrillator should be avail- struck by horror storm. As a result, crew eligibility fight led to title bouts being reduced from 15 to Santner, who has played 10 Tests for by a cricket ball was due to a “slight error” able at all first-class matches. rules were tightened, requiring a higher minimum 12 rounds and, eventually, weigh-ins at least 24 the Black Caps, showed promise during by the batsman, and made recommen- age and more experience. Lifejackets were also hours ahead of a fight to prevent dehydration, as the recent tour of India where New Formula One improved and sea survival courses are now man- well as compulsory brain scans. A series of box- Zealand were blanked 3-0 in the Test dations to avoid future incidents. Here datory for competitive sailors globally. ing deaths since then has seen more regulations are some sporting tragedies that have French driver Jules Bianchi died in a fatal crash at series and lost the following five-match introduced requiring doctors and anaesthetists one-day international series 3-2. sparked changes to safety standards... the Japanese Grand Prix in 2014. The sport intro- Football to be ringside. duced several new safety regulations in the after- “After such a strong tour of India, it’s Cricket math, including a virtual safety car and bringing Cameroon footballer Marc Vivien Foe’s death on really disappointing for Mitch to pick up race starts forward to avoid drivers having to race the field in a Confederations Cup semi-final in NASCAR this injury ahead of the first match of the home summer,” New Zealand coach Batsman Phillip Hughes died after being struck on in poor light. A proposed closed-cockpit, however, 2003 from a heart condition proved to be a wake- Mike Hesson said in a statement. “We’re the neck by a short-pitched delivery, or bouncer, was shelved. His death was the first in the sport up call for soccer. There have since been huge The death of rising star Adam Petty 16 years ago unsure whether Mitch will be available during an Australian domestic match in 2014. A since Ayrton Senna in 1994, whose demise led to improvements in both the testing of footballers from head trauma when his accelerator jammed for the second Test at this stage, but coroner ruled no one was to blame but recom- wider run-off areas, safer track design and greater for heart problems and the treatment they receive and he ploughed into a trackside wall at the New we’ll be monitoring his recovery closely mended authorities work with sports equipment head and neck support. during matches, including training sideline medi- Hampshire Motor Speedway led to an overhaul and look forward to having him back.” manufacturers to develop a better neck guard. He cal teams in CPR and using defibrillators. of safety standards. The most notable was the The first Test against Pakistan begins also suggested umpires would benefit from more introduction of a kill switch – a red button on the Yachting on November 17 in Christchurch with training to deal with emergencies. An independ- steering wheel which shuts down the car. Manda- Boxing the second Test in Hamilton from ent review into the tragedy by Cricket Australia The 1998 blue-water classic Sydney to Hobart race tory head and neck supports and new seat belts November 25. said helmets made to British safety standards was the most disastrous in its history with the The death of Welsh legend Johnny Owen in 1980 have also since been introduced.

BOTTOMLINE Aussies play down sledging problem aft er Hughes inquest AFP The hearing heard claims that one right spirit and for the sake of clarity, Perth bowler told him, “I am going to kill you”, there’s codes of behaviour that are in although players on the fi eld said they place that deal with inappropriate be- did not recall any such comment. haviour. ormer Australia captain Mark Taylor said he didn’t think sledging “When that line is crossed, people Taylor and other senior fi gures was a major problem in cricket, but he should pay the price for crossing that yesterday insisted verbal abuse urged umpires to crack down if they line and I can only encourage the um- Fis not a big problem after a cor- thought players were going too far. pires and relevant offi cials to take ac- oner examining Phillip Hughes’s death “I don’t think we have,” he said in tion when it is appropriate.” called it cricket’s “ugly underside”. Perth, where Australia are playing Former Australian Test opener Chris Hughes, who played 26 Tests, died South Africa, when asked if cricket had Rogers said he believed there was less from bleeding on the brain in Novem- a sledging problem. “The game needs sledging in the modern game, particu- ber 2014 after being hit on the neck by a competitive edge to it, but it doesn’t larly in England where he feels umpires a rising ball while batting in a domestic need a lot or rubbish talk either. If are less tolerant. “Things are changing match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. something positive does come out of but I don’t see how it can be completely During his inquest, concerns were this, it will be a reduction in the idle policed,” he said. raised by Hughes’ family about on-fi eld chat. Sledging is something that has Australian Test opener David Warn- sledging, or abuse, which they felt may always been talked about regularly, but er, who played in the game, said he was have unsettled him. the umpires should step in if they think not concerned that the coroner raised Yesterday, New South Wales coroner it is over the top.” doubts about the evidence of the play- Michael Barnes said even if there had Cricket Australia chief James Suth- ers on sledging in the match. been attempts to intimidate players, erland agreed it was down to the um- “I’m happy with my testimony,” Hughes did not appear to be aff ected and pires to stamp out backchat if it was Warner said. “The umpire said the same it “could not be implicated in his death”. becoming too much. “If it has become a thing, that there was no sledging out But Barnes called sledging an “un- problem, then I would say the umpires there. I stick to my word that there was savoury aspect” of cricket, adding: “An are not doing their job,” he said, adding no sledging out there.” outsider is left to wonder why such a that he did not see it as a problem. Warner claimed there was no sledg- Cricket Australia high-performance chief Pat Howard briefs media outside the court in Sydney yesterday after the coroner ruled beautiful game would need such an ugly “I come back to the fundamentals – ing in the game these days, describing it that a “minuscule misjudgement” led to by Australian batsman Phillip Hughes' death, and that neither the bowler (Sean Abbott) underside.” the game should still be played in the as “banter”. nor anyone else was to blame for the tragedy. Hughes died in November 2014 after being hit on the neck by a rising ball. (AFP) Gulf Times Saturday, November 5, 2016 3 SPORT

FOCUS DRS set for busy baptism on India’s turning pitches

Reuters Geoff Allardice, the ICC general supportive of DRS and their reaction in which a third umpire goes through Mumbai manager for cricket operations at the Sri Lankan umpire to the immediate feedback provided by a number of processes to determine if governing body, is a strong advocate Kumar Dharmasena the technology was crucial for the job. the on-fi eld offi cials were correct, say- for DRS, saying the system ensured witnessed as many “Being able to process feedback ing it was not reliable enough. fter years of resistance against more consistency in decision-making. as 16 challenges to about your decisions, and then try to It will mean that Dharmasena, who the Decision Review System “Generally in DRS series, we deliver his decisions and after either use it to improve your decision- will be an on-fi eld umpire in the open- (DRS), the Indian cricket 97 to 98% correct decisions,” Allard- eight of them were making, or to not let it aff ect your ing two Tests of the fi ve-match series board has fi nally agreed to ice told reporters on a conference call. overturned during last decision-making, is the thing that de- against England, will continue to re- employA technology for the home Tests “What that does is provide a consist- termines an elite umpire from the next main under scrutiny. month’s Bangladesh- against England and if the tourists’ se- ency of correct decisions, whether the England Test on a level down,” he added. DRS, in its current form, has no uni- ries in Bangladesh is anything to go by, conditions are diffi cult for umpiring, turning Chittagong “Generally umpires are like players: formity on the use of technology across it will get plenty of use. or whether the umpire is having a good track – an unwanted They have very good matches and they the globe. While ball-tracking tech- In the opening match on a turn- day or a bad day. record of most have an odd match where they don’t nology is mandatory, sound and heat- ing Chittagong track, Kumar Dhar- “With regards to the series in Bang- reversed decisions perform up to their normal stand- based edge detection systems are only masena witnessed 16 challenges to his ladesh and the impact on the umpires, in a single Test. ards. The thing that we are interested used in some countries. decisions and after eight of them were often DRS delivers its best result when in is how they bounce back... if things A fi xed review system, where the overturned, the Sri Lankan had earned the pitch is turning or seaming and aren’t going their way.” same type of technology is used in eve- an unwanted record of the most re- umpiring is diffi cult. The infl uential Indian board (BCCI) ry match, is the next goal for the ICC. versed decisions in a single Test. “It’s quite a test for an umpire, be- has long been a staunch opponent of “I do look at matches in diff erent Following that match last month, cause you can often be making good the review system, which aims to re- parts of the world and I see the dif- which saw a record 26 reviews in total, decisions that are later proven to be duce umpiring howlers by detecting ferent levels of technology,” Allardice opinions were divided on whether DRS incorrect, you know, through getting a edges and predicting the ball trajectory added. “You sometimes see umpires had improved decision-making and glove on a sweep shot that then lends to ensure correct catch and leg-before left without conclusive evidence in one the impact it had on the morale of um- to an lbw being overturned or some- wicket (lbw) decisions. series, where in another series, they pires, especially on the spin-friendly thing like that.” But in a triumph for the ICC, the BCCI might have that conclusive evidence pitches in South Asia. The governing body takes into ac- said it would use the review system on a with more tools available. Ahead of the system’s debut in a Test count the number of wrong decisions trial basis to assess improvements made “There are some logistical challeng- in India next week, the International made while assessing the umpires, which to the technology after having refused es, as well, about having every type of Cricket Council (ICC) said referrals probably puts them under more pressure. to allow its use in any bilateral series in- technology at every match but over- were always more likely on spinning Allardice said while umpires always volving its test team in the past. all, I think we should be striving for a tracks and that was why the review sys- preferred getting as many decisions The BCCI had previously objected more consistent delivery of technology tem was an essential tool for umpires. right as they could, they were very to the use of ball-tracking technology, across all international matches.”

RUGBY All Black brothers in arms ready for rare double show rare piece of rugby come a time when a third history could be made Barrett brother enters the All A at Soldier Field today Blacks reckoning. Jordie Bar- with New Zealand fielding two rett, 19, is travelling with the Ireland aim for Cubs sets of brothers at once for the squad to garner development first time in more than half a experience. century. “He was very nervous on All Black fly-half Beauden his first day. It’s quite daunting Barrett could be joined by for him, and no doubt it still is, younger brother Scott while but he’s got nothing to prove,” wing Julian Savea may be Beauden Barrett said of Jordie, united with sibling Ardie when a 6ft 5in (1.96m) center who spirit against Kiwis New Zealand take on Ireland. starred for New Zealand in the Not since All Black legends World Under-20 Championship Don Clarke and Colin Meads earlier this year. ‘It doesn’t have a direct relevance for us, other than the continued frustration that it’s a game, and a lined up alongside their Scott Barrett is almost cer- team, that has been pretty elusive. But in world rugby we’re not the only ones. There’s a number of other respective brothers, Ian and tain to feature at some point Stan, in 1961 have New Zealand on Saturday, with All Blacks teams around the world who haven’t managed to do it and who would love to be where we are now’ featured multiple siblings at coach Steve Hansen indicating the same time. his desire to make full use of Beauden Barrett, who will his replacements. earn his 47th cap against the Meanwhile, wing Julian Irish, is relishing the prospect Savea could mark his 50th cap of playing his first ever game alongside Hurricanes loose alongside brother Scott, the forward and younger brother Crusaders lock who starts Ardie, who earns his ninth cap amongst the replacements. on the bench. “It’s unbelievable. Pretty “I didn’t really think about proud obviously,” Barrett said. that but it’s a special mo- “Hopefully we’ll both get the ment,” Savea said. “Not only opportunity to be out there for us, but for the Barretts too. at the same time. It will be the Beaudy has his brother (Scott) first time I’ve ever played on in there and Jordie is part of the same team as Scott.” the tour too. No doubt he’s In fact, there may ultimately feeling the sort of pride I felt.”

SPOTLIGHT Springboks look for Barbarians respite New Zealand All Blacks during a training session in Chicago, Illinois, yesterday. (AFP) AFP whose side have tradition- London ally challenged the All Blacks for global rugby union AFP plenty of near-misses and gallant of other teams around the world at the venue in 2014 – brimming a good team,” Hansen said. “Last supremacy, that last result was Chicago failures along the way. who haven’t managed to do it and with confi dence after completing time we played them they should atches against tough to take. Three years ago Ireland led who would love to be where we their Bledisloe Cup series white- have won. They’ve only got better the Barbarians New coach Allister Coetzee, 19-0 in Dublin only to lose 24-22 are now.” wash over Australia in Auckland since then. They’ve beaten South are meant to be who took over from Heyneke reland will attempt to emu- with the last kick of the match. That said, there will not be a hap- last month. Africa this year and had a great fun encounters Meyer following the World late the Chicago Cubs to- Ireland’s no-nonsense Kiwi pier man than Schmidt in Soldier That 37-10 win was a record series against them. So they’ll be Mand games where players on Cup, has born the brunt of the day by ending more than a coach Joe Schmidt is reluctant to Field today should Ireland manage 18th consecutive victory. A clean full noise on Saturday. We’ll need both sides can take a few more criticism over both his team Icentury of futility against see the Cubs’ success as an omen. to upset the New Zealanders. sweep on their Northern Hemi- to be full noise too.” chances than they might in the selections and tactics, with a record-breaking New Zealand “Gee, I’d love to believe in “I would be delighted for the sphere tour, which also includes New Zealand’s preparations intense atmosphere of a full in- leading South African rugby side chasing rugby immortality. omens but I don’t,” Schmidt said. players, and for the past play- Tests against Italy and France, have been complicated by injuries ternational. But try telling that journalist Mark Keohane call- Chicago has been engulfed by “I’m not superstitious at all. 1908? ers who can’t wait to see it hap- as well as a return fi xture with to their star locks Sam Whitelock to South Africa right now. ing his Springbok side a “dis- rapturous celebrations this week That’s a bit similar to 1905. But I pen,” said Schmidt. “And all the Ireland in Dublin, would see and Brodie Retallick. Another The Springboks begin their grace to the jersey”. after the Cubs erased 108 years of think the similarities stop there.” supporters who’ve had a number the Kiwis fi nish the year with second row, Luke Romano, fl ew European tour with a match “The Barbarians play an at- torment by fi nally winning base- Schmidt meanwhile is ada- of visits to All Black fi xtures and 22 straight wins, an astounding back to New Zealand this week against the invitational side at tacking, adventurous style of ball’s World Series with a come- mant that Ireland’s 111-year wait never had a result.” achievement in the modern era. after a family bereavement. London’s Wembley Stadium rugby and it will be a real test for from-behind defeat of the Cleve- for a fi rst victory over New Zea- The odds however are stacked The longest unbeaten streak in Hansen has turned to blind- today having endured one of our young side,” said Coetzee. land Indians. land does not weigh heavily on his against Ireland, who have had less rugby history stands at 23 – when side fl anker Jerome Kaino to plug their toughest years in the pro- “They have an excellent, Ireland, however, have an even squad’s psyche. than a week in camp together to New Zealand compiled 22 wins the gap at lock, where the Blues fessional era. world-renowned coach in longer-running tale of woe when “It doesn’t have a direct rel- prepare for what will be their fi rst and one draw between 1987 and player will pack down alongside They have lost fi ve of their Robbie Deans, exciting young it comes to meetings with New evance for us, other than the Test match since a 2-1 series de- 1990. Patrick Tuipulotu. last nine matches, a run that players in their side, including Zealand: in 28 matches since continued frustration that it’s a feat to South Africa in June. New Zealand coach Steve Behind the pack, Aaron Smith includes defeats by Argentina some South Africans,” he add- 1905, they have never beaten the game, and a team, that has been World champions New Zea- Hansen, however, is not look- returns to partner Beauden Bar- and Ireland and, most recently, ed. It will be a really big occa- All Blacks. pretty elusive,” Schmidt said. land meanwhile head into their ing past today’s date in Chicago rett, the scrum-half’s fi rst start a record 57-15 thrashing by New sion for our young players, but Like the Cubs – until this sea- “But in world rugby we’re not second visit to Soldier Field – against an Irish side he rates highly. since his involvement in an airport Zealand in Durban last month. we’re excited to be giving them son at any rate – there have been the only ones. There’s a number they trounced the United States “I know that this Irish side is toilet sex scandal in September. For fans of the Springboks, an opportunity.” Despite dismal record, Wales hope to snap losing streak against Australia AFP ahead of the 2017 tour to New Zealand. fitness after an injury lay-off , No 8 their last 11 Tests, but Wales skipper Cheika, who has tasted success anyone’s radar. All that stuff is exactly Cardiff , Wales The former Wales scrum-half can Taulupe Faletau is out with an injured Gethin Jenkins and the straight-talking in the Rugby Championship, Super what it is – the past. It gives us nothing but hope that things improve com- knee and Alun Wyn Jones withdrew Cheika played down any significance. Rugby, European Cup and Celtic on Saturday and gives them nothing pared to his last caretaker spell when after the death of his father. “We’ve come up close a couple of League, has come under criticism in either. The two teams on match day, tatistics do not lie. Wales’ record Gatland had his first stint with the In-form Scarlets full-back/wing Liam times and obviously lost in the last Australia for the team’s string of disap- putting their best rugby forward, and in the November Tests is a dis- Lions, Howley overseeing four straight Williams has also failed to recover play of the game a few times,” said pointing results. the better team will win – that’s how it Smal one, notably against oppo- November losses to Argentina, Samoa, from an ankle knock, meaning Leigh prop Jenkins, Wales’ most capped The Wallabies were World Cup final- always boils down.” nents from the Southern Hemisphere New Zealand and Australia in 2012. Halfpenny resumes business at the player. Six of the last 11 losses to Aus- ists and more recently Rugby Champi- The Welsh have never won more than and they face another stiff test against But thoughts Howley might have back in his first international in 14 tralia have been in single digits. onship runners-up, but since losing to half of their games played in an autumn Australia today. had that Saturday posed the best op- months, with Alex Cuthbert recalled to “They’re a quality team. We know New Zealand a year ago, there has been series since its introduction with the Since Warren Gatland took over in portunity to snap an 11-match losing the wing. we’ve got to be on the top of our game a six-match losing streak including a advent of professionalism in 1996. 2008, Wales have managed just two streak against Australia dating back to Wallaby coach Michael Cheika to get a result against them and Satur- 3-0 whitewash by England and a record But for both Wales and Australia, wins against the “big three” of Aus- 2008 have surely been diluted by the handed David Pocock a first start at day will be no diff erent. 42-6 defeat by the All Blacks, all at home. there is the added incentive of winning tralia, New Zealand and South Africa in absence of three crucial forwards. blindside flanker, with Tevita Kurid- “They’re coming here on the back of “I don’t know if anyone’s thinking to improve their World Rugby rank- 33 games in total. Captain Sam Warburton instead rani, at outside centre, the only other what’s been some improved perform- about 12 in a row when you haven’t ings. The Wallabies currently sit third Rob Howley is now temporarily at turned out for club side Cardiff Blues change to his starting XV. ances in the Rugby Championship and won as many games as we should’ve behind New Zealand and England, with the helm with Gatland having been against Treviso in the Celtic League Both Wales and Australia head into they’ll be looking at their past history won this year,” Cheika said. Wales fifth. Both teams will be bidding seconded to the British and Irish Lions yesterday in a bid to regain match today’s game with just three wins from against us to try and get that victory.” “That hasn’t even popped up on to nail down a top-four spot. Gulf Times 4 Saturday, November 5, 2016 SPORT

BOXING GOLF Willett slumps as Olesen storms Pacquiao can’t ahead in Turkey take Vargas for granted in return ‘I respect Vargas and his team, how dedicated they are. I feel what he’s feeling right now because I’ve been there when I was 27 years old, 28 years old and I know how hungry I was’

AFP Tour events this year with his Belek, Turkey best fi nish a pair of second-place results at the BMW International Open in Germany and the Qatar asters champi- Masters. on Danny Willett Olesen arrived in Turkey ly- slumped as Den- ing 38th on the European Tour’s mark’s Thorbjorn Race to Dubai and 92nd in the MOlesen hit a new course record World Rankings. Victory would 62 to open up a six-shot lead on send the Dane to just outside the day two of the Turkish Airlines top-10 on the Race to Dubai. Open yesterday. Two players — Spain’s Adri- Willett, who is looking to end an Otaegui and Thailand’s the season as European number Thongchai Jaidee — share a dis- one for the fi rst time, had hit an tant second on nine under par. opening-round 69 but dropped Otaegui, 23, had set a new back to a tie for 56th place after course record with an eight-un- failing to record a single birdie in der 63 but it lasted just over two a three-over-par 74. hours before Olesen set a new The English golfer arrived in low. Turkey lying second in the Race “I started with fi ve consecu- to Dubai and can regain the lead- tive birdies and from thereon I ing money list position by fi nish- just tried to not think on any- ing fi fth or higher in this week’s thing, just tried to keep the mo- 78-player fi eld. mentum going,” said Otaegui as Olesen, 26, capped his round he continues to chase a fi rst Tour with an eagle along with eight success. birdies and just one bogey in a Italy’s Matteo Manassero, 23, nine-under-par eff ort to move to showed a return to form with a a 15-under 127 total in ideal scor- 68 to move into a share of third ing conditions on the Regnun alongside Swede Joakim Lager- Carya resort course. gren, England’s David Horsey “I found something in my and China’s Li Haotong. game playing the Portugal Mas- The Italian had become the ters and while I didn’t score that youngest winner on the Euro- Boxers Manny Pacquiao (L) of the Philippines and Jessie Vargas of the US pose during their final news conference at The Wynn Las Vegas on November 2. Pacquiao will well, I fi nished that week feeling pean Tour in capturing the 2010 challenge Vargas for the WBO Welterweight Championship title today at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. like I was playing much better,” Castellon Masters. said Olesen. He also became the fi rst teen- “So I was looking for some- ager to win three Tour titles In a typical day of wearing two hats, he thing good to come and yester- while he won a fourth, his last AFP Zou to make Las Vegas debut on Pacman undercard Los Angeles says he wakes up for a 7 a.m.run.He has day I produced a great putting victory, at the 2013 BMW PGA to be at the Senate at 10 a.m.for meetings display and today just played Championship. Los Angeles: Two time Olympic gold Buriram, Thailand, is riding a two- year, and then the afternoon sessions run until better and still putted great.” First-round leader George Co- anny Pacquiao’s seven- medallist Zou Shiming is grateful to 12-bout winning streak since Sou handed 5 p.m.He goes to the gym in the evening Olesen is chasing a fourth Tour etzee of South Africa slumped to month hiatus can hardly be share the billing with Manny Pacquiao him his sole defeat. All of his victories where he works out until 9pm before head- victory and fi rst in just over 12 a share of 13th place at fi ve under considered a retirement but as he goes for his first-ever profes- during his current winning streak have ing home. months since capturing the 2015 par after putting two balls into Mthere is no doubt that the sional boxing crown against a familiar come by knockout. “It’s not easy being a senator working in Alfred Dunhill Links Champion- the water in taking a quadruple eight division boxing champ used the time foe in Kwanpichit Onesongchaigym of Freddie Roach, who trains both Zou the offi ce and being a boxer while you’re ship in Scotland. bogey at his 10th hole in an even- off to refl ect on his passion for the sport. Thailand. and Pacquiao, said he has warned the training.It’s hard, but it’s a good thing The Dane has contested 24 tual round of a two-over-par 73. “I thought I wouldn’t see you again, but Zou and Kwanpichit are key components 35-year-old Zou to beware of bruising when you are happy and enjoying it,” said now I’m here to continue my journey,” said in an international undercard to today’s tactics from Kwanpichit. Pacquiao. the newly elected Philippines senator who main event between Filipino boxing star “The last time we fought him (Kwanpi- No fi ghter can go on forever but Pac- Pampling shoots sizzling 60 to lead in Las Vegas is in the fi nal days of preparations for his Pacquiao and World Boxing Organization chit) was head butting and landing low quiao is still one of the most recognizable title fi ght today against Jessie Vargas in Las welterweight champion Jessie Vargas. blows,” Roach said. names in boxing and is training with re- Los Angeles: Australian Rod “When I hit it close on 16, that Vegas.I respect Vargas and his team, how Zou (8-1, 2 KOs) has been called the The 2008 and 2012 Olympic gold medal- newed energy says Roach. Pampling fired a blistering got my attention as to this is a dedicated they are. I feel what he’s feeling “poster boy of boxing” in China but he list Zou came up short in his previous “What I’m thinking when I prepared for 11-under par 60 to seize the US really good round,” Pampling right now because I’ve been there when I is just getting his career started in the title tilt against Thailand’s Amnat Ruen- this fi ght was I have to make sure I’m in PGA Tour lead on Thursday in said. “The putt on 17 just fell was 27 years old, 28 years old and I know United States. roeng in 2015. condition and work hard even though I’m Las Vegas, where two closing short in the jaws and on 18 I how hungry I was.” Today’s bout at the Thomas & Mack Zou and Kwanpichit’s bout will open the working in the offi ce,” Pacquiao said. pars left him shy of a 59. gave myself a bad read. Pacquiao is an eight division world Center will be just his second outside of impressive undercard for Pacquiao’s The 27-year-old Vargas is 10 years The 47-year-old veteran’s “I thought it was straight, but champion, something he takes great pride China and his first in the boxing haven of return. younger than Pacquiao and will have a fi ve 12-foot birdie putt at 18 rolled it just had that little left-to- in. It is a record that trainer Freddie Roach Las Vegas. Kwanpichit is unfazed by the prospect inch height and four-inch reach advantage left to deny him a spot in the right. I would have loved to thinks will not be broken in his lifetime. Zou, of Guizhou, China, has every reason of meeting Zou again, adamant that he when they step into the ring at the Thomas exclusive club of golfers to have made one for a 59, but it “Winning world titles in eight divisions to be confident heading into their is a vastly improved fighter to the one & Mack Center arena. shoot 59 in competition. was just a good solid day all is not that easy,” Pacquiao said.”I am so rematch for the vacant WBO flyweight comprehensively beaten by Zou two “I had a great training camp.This has He had left a 21-footer at 17 around.” blessed to be a part of boxing history by title. He beat Kwanpichit two years ago years ago. been my best to date,” said Vargas. “I’m just short. Pampling claimed his most re- winning them. in Macau, pounding the Thai in an unani- “Zou is rated number two and I am rated very happy with my team, they’re bringing Pampling, who had two eagles cent PGA Tour title at the 2006 “That is not me boasting.I am just happy mous decision victory at the Venetian number three, but that is the only thing out the best in me.We’re looking stronger, and seven birdies in his first 16 Arnold Palmer Invitational. He to be a part of the history.” hotel. that has remained the same from our faster, we’ve over-exceeded every aspect holes, wasn’t too disappointed. had to head back to the devel- Pacquiao looked impressive in April Kwanpichit (39-1-2, 24 KOs), from first fight,” said Kwanpichit. in training when it comes to speed, power, He knew he was doing some- opmental Web.com Tour Finals when he dominated Timothy Bradley in intelligence in the ring, ring savvy.” thing special after he stuck his to regain his playing privileges. their third fi ght — one he said would be Vargas is hoping to catch Pacquiao with three-iron second shot at the His sparkling eff ort had him his last.Now if he gets past World Boxing looking at a fi ght against unbeaten Terence 14 hour days in the Philippines backs up his guard down, much like Juan Manuel par-five 16th within a foot for two strokes in front of John Organization welterweight champ Vargas, Crawford in 2017. the notion he could continue to fi ght for Marquez did in his 2012 knockout of Pac- his second eagle of the day. Huh and Brooks Koepka. as many think he will, Pacquiao could be The way Pacquiao’s been able to juggle some time at a high level. man to win their fourth fi ght.

BOTTOMLINE FIA wrong on two counts with Vettel: Herbert

Reuters prix between 1989 and 2000 and was position to the German on the track, London This file photo taken on October 30, 2016 Michael Schumacher’s team mate at triggering the expletive-laden rant by shows Scuderia Ferrari’s German driver Benetton in 1994 and 1995, said a race Vettel who then clashed with Verstap- Sebastian Vettel celebrating his third place ban would have been too hard but a grid pen’s team mate Ricciardo. ormula One’s governing body in the podium at the end of the Formula One penalty or fi ne could have been imposed. After a stewards’ investigation, Vettel got it wrong twice over with Mexico Grand Prix at the Hermanos Rodriguez The FIA said on Tuesday that its pres- was then handed a penalty that demoted Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel at last circuit in Mexico City. He was later penalized ident Jean Todt had decided, “on an ex- him to fi fth for a dangerous move while weekend’s Mexican Grand Prix, 10 points and dropped to fifth place. ceptional basis”, not to take disciplinary defending his position, elevating Ric- accordingF to former race winner and tel- action against the four-times world ciardo to third and Verstappen to fourth. evision pundit Johnny Herbert. champion after he apologised. Herbert felt that penalty was another Stewards promoted and demoted the “You are hearing a frustrated Sebas- wrong decision. “I’m surprised he (Vet- German to and from the podium after tian Vettel coming out with all this stuff tel) got something for that. That’s what he tangled with Red Bull’s Max Verstap- and we want to hear it. But you know I want to see, was there anything wrong pen and Daniel Ricciardo, and then let you’ve got to be sometimes careful with with it? It was a squeeze, there wasn’t him off for hurling abuse at race director what you say and how you say it,” said anything wrong with it,” he said. Charlie Whiting over the radio. Herbert. “I’m ‘let them race, let them get on Herbert told Reuters that, while he “We heard it, it was directed at Char- with it’.” welcomed the airing of communica- lie in a very rude manner which is unac- Speaking at Blackwell’s Holborn tions between driver and team as an in- ceptable. He should have got something. bookshop in London, where he was sight into the stresses of racing, Vettel’s He got off scot-free.” promoting his autobiography ‘What swearing at Whiting had gone too far. Vettel fi nished fourth on the road in Doesn’t Kill you...”, Herbert also said “The worst thing was the stuff direct- Mexico but was promoted to the podium something had to be done to ensure ly at Charlie. I thought that was out of after Verstappen was demoted to fi fth drivers kept within the track limits. order and something should have been for gaining an advantage by going off the “I remember when I was racing, I done about that one. It’s a step too far,” track while defending against the Ferrari would try and take a little bit of the track said the Briton. driver. if I knew I could get away with it,” he Herbert, who won three grands The Dutchman had refused to cede said. Gulf Times Saturday, November 5, 2016 5 SPORT

NBA NFL QB Ryan shines Durant, Warriors as Falcons thump Buccaneers 43-28 Reuters silence Thunder; New York att Ryan threw for 344 yards and four touch- downs, leading the Atlanta Falcons to an easy 43-28 Mroad win over the Tampa Bay Bucca- neers in Florida on Thursday. Cavs win again Atlanta (6-3) trailed 14-13 in the second quarter, but led at the half and pulled away in the third quarter, when ‘They’re going to want to beat him really bad. He’s going to want to beat Ryan was near-perfect, going 11-for-12 for 146 yards, with touchdown passes them really bad. In turn, we’re going to want to beat them really bad’ to fullback Patrick DiMarco and receiv- er Julio Jones. missed a snap, with backup Mike Glen- AFP The Buccaneers (3-5), who gave up non fi lling in. Los Angeles 626 yards of total off ense in a loss to the Bucs receiver Mike Evans had a ca- Raiders last Sunday, gave up 461 to the reer-high 11 catches for 150 yards, but Falcons as they continue to struggle, was evaluated for a concussion after evin Durant’s dominant especially against the passing game. taking a shot on a one-handed catch. 39-point display lifted the Ryan came in leading the NFL in Evans entered the game tied for the Golden State Warriors to touchdown passes (19) and passing NFL lead with six touchdown catches a 122-96 victory over the yards (2,636) and exceeded his averages and added two more in the fi rst half KOklahoma City Thunder on Thursday on both to help the Falcons avenge an Thursday. in the fi rst clash between Durant and opening-week home loss to the Bucs. The Bucs dropped to 0-4 at home his former team. Julio Jones had eight catches for 111 this season and are an NFL-worst 3-17 Amid breathless speculation as to yards and his fi fth touchdown of the at home since the start of the 2014 sea- just what the meeting between Durant season. son. The Falcons’ 43 points is the most and former teammate Russell West- The Bucs got three touchdown pass- allowed by the Bucs since a 48-17 loss brook would look like, the Warriors es from Jameis Winston, but the Bucs to the Ravens in October 2014. ended the suspense by halftime. couldn’t stop the Falcons, who didn’t Tampa Bay had won three straight Durant scored 29 points in the fi rst punt while scoring fi ve touchdowns against their division rivals, all since half as the Warriors erased an early and three fi eld goals. Winston took over as their quarterback defi cit to take a 68-43 halftime lead. Winston left the game after injuring last season. The Bucs opened the sea- He matched his career high with his right knee on a two-point conver- son with three home losses, including seven three-pointers, pulled down sion in the fourth quarter — the fi rst Sunday in overtime against the Oak- seven rebounds and blocked a shot as time in his two-year NFL career he has land Raiders. the Warriors handed Westbrook and the Thunder their fi rst defeat of the young season after four straight vic- BASEBALL tories. “KD is KD. He’s gonna do what he do,” said the Warriors’ Draymond Green, who unabashedly acknowl- edged that Golden State was keen to Five years in the get their new addition a win over his old team. “They’re going to want to beat him really bad. He’s going to want to beat Kevin Durant (left) of the Golden State Warriors reacts after dunking the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder at making, ‘The Plan’ them really bad. In turn, we’re going to Oracle Arena in Oakland, California, on Thursday. (AFP) want to beat them really bad because we want him to beat them really bad,” scoring list. “It’s just a matter of taking what the but were up by 13 going into the fourth Green said before tip-off , even as Du- Kevin Love scored a season-high defense gives you,” Fournier said. “”As quarter and escaped with a victory ends Cubs drought rant and Westbrook insisted it was just 26 points and Kyrie Irving added 23 long as I’m taking good shots, I don’t that moved them to 2-2 for the season. another day at the offi ce. for Cleveland, who let a double-digit have to score like this every night, but Despite the win, Nuggets coach The result left the defending cham- lead evaporate before closing out the I have to be effi cient. There’s no pres- Michael Malone said his team needed pion Cleveland Cavaliers as the only contest. sure, but we have high expectations.” to start faster. undefeated team in the league, after a “We want to continue to get better,” DeMarcus Cousins led all scorers “We have to fi nd a way to start 128-122 victory over the Boston Celt- James said. “When we get up on teams with 33 points, but he got little help games as we’re starting the third ics that pushed the Cavs to 5-0. we’ve got to fi gure out how to continue from his Kings teammates as Sacra- quarters,” Malone said. “Because over LeBron James scored 20 of his sea- to just push the lead up or just keep it mento lost their third straight game. an 82-game season — even just a fi ve- son-high 30 points in the third period where it is and not allow teams to get Magic forward Serge Ibaka scored game road trip — you can’t continue to and added 12 assists for the Cavaliers, back into the game.” 17 points. Reserve Jeff Green contrib- do that.” who are 5-0 for the fi rst time since the uted 15 and Aaron Gordon chipped in 1976-77 season when they started 8-0. FOURNIER FUELS MAGIC 13 points and 10 rebounds. RESULTS James’ 30 points left him tantaliz- France’s Evan Fournier scored 29 The Denver Nuggets used a big Orlando 102 Sacramento 94 ingly close to another career mile- points and the Orlando Magic pulled third-quarter to erase a fi rst-half defi - Milwaukee 125 Indiana 107 stone. With two more points he’ll away in the fourth quarter for a 102-94 cit and beat the Minnesota Timber- Denver 102 Minnesota 99 move past Hakeem Olajuwon (26,946) victory over the visiting Sacramento wolves 102-99 in Minneapolis. Cleveland 128 Boston 122 into 10th place on the NBA’s all-time Kings. Denver trailed by six at halftime, Golden State 122 Oklahoma City 96

NHL

Flames hand Sharks season’s fi rst home loss Cubs president Theo Epstein (left) passes the commissioner’s trophy to manager Joe Maddon after they won the World Series on Wednesday. (USA TODAY Sports) By Curtis Pashelka has been the bottom part, the Edmon- The Mercury News (TNS) tons, the (Arizonas), the Calgarys, are Reuters al League MVP favourite Kris Bryant either taking a big step or have the po- Dublin and post-season hero Kyle Schwarber tential to take a big step. It’s going to — all played vital roles on Wednesday. third period rally wasn’t be tight.” The Cubs went against the grain by enough to save the San Jose Jones entered Thursday with a 4-0 he Chicago Cubs’ dramatic drafting bats, not arms, knowing that Sharks from their fi rst home record and a 1.00 goals against aver- ending of a 108-year World they could trade for pitchers and polish loss of the season on Thurs- age and a .958 save percentage at SAP Series drought was not merely some rough diamonds. None shone day.A Center this season. Flames starting a case of baseball’s ‘Loveable brighter than 2015 Cy Young Award The Sharks erased a two-goal defi - goalie Chad Johnson carried a 1-0-1 TLosers’ fi nally catching a break but the winner Jake Arrieta and Game Seven cit after an uneven start but allowed career record against San Jose from result of a patient strategy fi ve years in starter Kyle Hendricks. the winning goal with 4:21 to go in the last season with the Buff alo Sabres. the making. Even All-Star fi rst baseman Anthony third period in a 3-2 loss to the Calgary The Sharks were well aware of how ‘The Plan’, as it became known by Rizzo was disregarded by the San Diego Flames at SAP Center. the Flames like to activate their de- Cubs fans forced to sit through a 100- Padres before reuniting with Epstein, Matthew Tkachuk scored the win- fense, similar to their last opponent at loss season as recently as four years who fi rst drafted him in 2007, to be- ner for the Flames. With at last three home, the Nashville Predators. ago, was hatched when Boston Red Sox come the Cubs’ leader on the fi eld. Sharks on one side of the ice, Tkachuk “A lot of their off ense starts with their General Manager Theo Epstein was ap- “That’s the story of a lot of our guys, took a pass from Michael Frolik and back end, both on the rush and in the of- pointed President of Baseball Opera- they weren’t the best guys right away. beat Martin Jones with a forehand to fensive zone,” DeBoer said of the Flames. tions in 2011. They faced adversity and were allowed backhand move for his second goal “They remind me of us a little in the of- Epstein, the Yale graduate who at the to develop a way through it,” said Baker, of the game, as the Sharks’ record on fensive zone. They pour a ton of shots to age of 28 broke the Red Sox’s decades- who played in the minor leagues with home ice dropped to 4-1. the net and really use their defensemen long World Series curse, sought to “de- Rizzo and caught Arrieta’s fi rst game Brent Burns and Melker Karlsson to kind of recover the rebounds and look fi ne a Cubs way of playing the game”. On as a Cub. scored goals 8:43 in the third period to for opportunities off that.” Wednesday, the “Cubs Way” delivered “They’re the guys that are very dif- tie the game 2-2. Calgary Flames left wing Matthew Tkachuk (second from left) with teammates A reason why the Sharks came into the moment generations had longed for fi cult to compete against because Burns’ power play goal just 35 sec- after scoring a goal in the third period of their NHL game against the San Jose Thursday having won three of four, with a thrilling 8-7 series-deciding win they’ve been to the bottom, they’ve onds into the third period gave the Sharks at SAP Center in San Jose on Thursday. (USA TODAY Sports) besides stellar goaltending from Jones, over the Cleveland Indians. been beaten but are stronger people for Sharks some life, as his slap shot from was the contributions from the all “This is just a diff erent place,” John it and when you put four of fi ve of those the point got through traffi c and past game’s opening goal. Just 93 seconds Thursday’s game was the fourth lines. Baker, who played for the Cubs in 2014 guys on a fi eld, you have the best team Flames goalie Chad Johnson. later, e Matthew Tkachuk found some of the season for the Sharks against Third line center Hertl and second and joined Epstein’s staff as a baseball- in baseball.” The Sharks tied the game with 10:42 space in the Sharks’ zone and beat a Pacifi c Division after they beat Los line winger Joonas Donskoi combined operations assistant last year, told Reu- With Epstein and his team signed to go in the third period, as Karlsson’s Jones with a wrist shot through the Angeles on Oct. 12 and Anaheim on for eight points over the last three ters. on for another fi ve years, Joe Maddon’s tip of a shot from the point by Marc- legs. Oct. 25, both by 2-1 scores, and lost to games before Thursday, provided “My fi rst impression was wow, these young side are primed for sustained Edouard Vlasic bounced past Johnson The Sharks went 0-for-3 on the Arizona 3-2 on Tuesday. The Sharks some valuable secondary scoring guys won the World Series in Boston, success having secured a World Series for his second goal of the season. power play in a scoreless fi rst period, don’t play a division opponent again punch behind Joe Pavelski, Joe Thorn- they’ve been incredibly successful fi - berth with a starting lineup that had an Sharks coach Pete DeBoer tried to collecting fi ve shots in six minutes until Nov. 19, when they travel back to ton, Brent Burns and Logan Couture. nancially but they are ego-less people average age of 23. give his team a jolt as he juggled his lines with the man advantage. The Sharks Glendale to face the Coyotes at the end trying to provide the best possible en- That hunger permeates through the to start the second period. Melker Karls- also killed the one power play they al- of a two-week, six game road trip. RESULTS vironment for a team of baseball play- entire organisation, says Baker, from son was moved to the top line with Joe lowed without allowing a shot. The Sharks had a 16-9-3 record Toronto 2 Buff alo 1 ers to be successful. That’s the simple 16-year-olds being taught how to Thornton and Joe Pavelski and Mikkel The Sharks fi gured to have a special against Pacifi c teams last season, Philadelphia 3 NY Islanders 2 (SO) goal.” control their heart rate for their World Boedker was placed on the third line teams advantage Thursday. something that might be tough to du- NY Rangers 5 Edmonton 3 The masterplan was built on a foun- Series moment to Wilson, the ground- with Tomas Hertl and Patrick Marleau. No team in the NHL has been short- plicate considering the division ap- Washington 4 Winnipeg 3 (OT) dation of scouting and player devel- skeeper at the Arizona spring training It worked for a while as the Sharks handed more often so far this season pears more balanced top-to-bottom. Ottawa 1 Vancouver 0 opment, supplemented by a series of complex, who, like everyone on staff , outshot the Flames 8-5 in the fi rst 11 than the Flames, who’ve given up at “I think LA and Anaheim are go- Boston 4 Tampa Bay 3 (SO) brilliant trades and when the time was was fl own to Chicago and given World minutes of the second, but the Flames least one power play goal in nine of ing to be right there at the end of the Florida 4 New Jersey 3 (OT) right, opening the cheque book for go- Series tickets. struck twice in the fi nal 3:28 of the 11 games. Coming into Thursday, the day,” DeBoer said Thursday morn- Chicago 4 Colorado 0 for-it free agency signings. The talk in Chicago’s North Side is second to take a 2-0 lead. Sharks converted fi ve of 12 power play ing. “There was a lot of similar things Dallas 6 St. Louis 2 Epstein said he would not rest until now of dynasties. An uncovered Troy Brouwer one- chances in four home games and had happening last year. But ... you know Arizona 3 Nashville 2 (SO) the Cubs had the best scouting depart- “We’re building an army to win as timed a behind-the-back pass from killed 15-for-15 penalties over the last those teams are going to be right there. Los Angeles 3 Pittsburgh 2 (OT) ment in the game. His fi rst three top many championships as possible,” said Michael Ferland past Jones for the fi ve games overall. “Where the improvement’s been Calgary 3 San Jose 2 draft picks — Albert Almora Jr, Nation- Baker. Gulf Times 6 Saturday, November 5, 2016 FOOTBALL

LA LIGA BUNDESLIGA ‘Mini Mourinho’ out Daunting Sevilla to topple Bayern away trip awaits

defeated Barcelona File photo of Hoff enheim’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann. ‘We are coming into the game well. I don’t think losing will aff ect Barcelona. If we don’t AFP “We’re going to be successful Berlin against them,” insisted Nagels- mann, whose team is four points have a perfect evening it will be a very diff icult encounter’ adrift of Bayern. nbeaten Hoff enheim, “It’s a complex thing to plan, AFP whose coach Julian but the football community in Madrid Nagelsmann, 29, is the Germany doesn’t expect much youngest in Bundesliga from us, which is a benefi t psy- Uhistory, are targeting a fi rst win chologically.” arcelona face a huge task to over leaders Bayern Munich today Bayern striker Robert Lewand- bounce back from defeat at the to underline their title challenge. owski is on form with two goals hands of old boss Pep Guardio- Hoff enheim are third in Ger- in each of Bayern’s last two wins. la’s Manchester City in midweek many’s top fl ight and have al- The Polish hot-shot has al- whenB the Spanish champions travel to ready beaten the likes of Schalke, ready netted 19 goals in 17 games high-fl ying Sevilla tomorrow. Bayer Leverkusen and Hertha for club and country this season. Barca trail La Liga leaders Real Madrid Berlin en route. “There’s a hint He was on fi re in Tuesday’s 2-1 by two points with Sevilla, who have won of Champions League in the air,” win at PSV Eindhoven, netting their last seven home games, just a point magazine Kicker recently wrote a brace and hitting the wood- further adrift. of Hoff enheim’s rise. work three times. “It’s in his job “We are coming into the game well,” Carlo Ancelotti’s Bayern have description that he must score a said Sevilla coach Jorge Sampaoli after seen off two serious challengers lot,” joked Thomas Mueller. his side moved to the brink of qualifying already this season. Second-placed RB Leipzig can for the Champions League last 16 with a Both high-fl ying Hertha and equal the league record for a team 4-0 thrashing of Dinamo Zagreb. Cologne failed to win in Munich in their debut Bundesliga season “I don’t think losing will aff ect Barce- and Hoff enheim are the next un- if they avoid defeat at home to lona. If we don’t have a perfect evening it beaten side trying to take Bay- Mainz tomorrow. will be a very diffi cult encounter.” ern’s scalp. Red Bull-sponsored Leipzig On top of their Champions League de- Nagelsmann only took charge are just one short of the record feat in Manchester, Barca have sneaked in February, but managed to keep set by MSV Duisburg, who past Valencia and Granada in their last Hoff enheim up, then turned went ten games unbeaten in the two league outings as the absence of Ger- them into genuine contenders. 1993/94 season. ard Pique, Jordi Alba and Andres Iniesta Comparisons have been made has taken its toll. to Jose Mourinho, who received FIXTURES All three are expected to miss out once his fi rst break, aged 29, working (all times 1430GMT unless stated) more at the Sanchez Pizjuan with Rafi n- with ex-England coach Bobby Today ha or Arda Turan replacing Andre Gomes Robson at Sporting Lisbon, Bayern Munich vs Hoff enheim, the only change expected from the team earning Nagelsmann the nick- Bayer Leverkusen vs Darmstadt, that started at the Etihad Stadium. named “Mini Mourinho”. Hamburg vs Borussia Dortmund, “After the fi rst half, especially after Nagelsmann is predicting Ingolstadt vs Augsburg, Freiburg losing the second goal, we lost the atti- Hoff enheim’s fi rst win over Bay- vs Wolfsburg, Eintracht Frankfurt tude we normally have,” Barca goalkeeper ern at the 17th attempt since the vs Cologne (1730) Marc-Andre ter Stegen told radio station club, from a tiny village in south- Tomorrow RAC1 on what Luis Enrique’s men need to west Germany, were fi rst pro- RB Leipzig vs Mainz, Schalke vs improve for their trip to Seville. moted for the 2008/09 season. Werder Bremen (1630) Barca were the last visiting side to win at the Sanchez Pizjuan. However, a 2-0 win in the fi rst leg of SERIE A the Spanish Super Cup in August came before Sevilla had bedded in many of File picture of Barcelona’s Lionel Messi reacting during the Champions League game against Manchester City. their 11 summer signings. Sevilla have injury problems of their and coach Zinedine Zidane once again Liga campaign, three consecutive defeats is on the line when his side visit fi fth- Goal-shy Napoli own, though, with Samir Nasri a major criticised his side’s lack of intensity. have seen Leganes, nicknamed the ‘cu- placed Villarreal tomorrow. doubt due to a hamstring problem that “We lacked intensity, desire and move- cumber growers’, slip to a point above the Betis are just two points off the rel- forced him to miss the midweek win. ment,” said the Frenchman. relegation zone. egation zone in 13th and fans called for desperate for striker “At times you can have these odd Atletico Madrid are three points back Poyet’s head during last weekend’s 1-0 MODRIC BACK games and we’ve got to be patient. The on Real in third, but can move top when defeat at home to Espanyol. Barca could be fi ve points adrift of Real good thing is that we didn’t lose and they travel to Real Sociedad on today. Milik to return by the time they kick off as the European we’re now focusing on our next game.” Diego Simeone’s men were the only FIXTURES (ALL KICK-OFFS GMT) champions host Leganes tomorrow. Madrid could be boosted by the re- Spanish side to book their place in the Today AFP Madrid endured an embarrassing night turn of Luka Modric for the fi rst time in last 16 of the Champions League in Granada vs Deportivo la Coruna (1200), Milan in front of an empty stadium on Wednes- a month after he underwent surgery on a midweek, but needed a dramatic 93rd- Real Sociedad vs Atletico Madrid (1515), day as they spurned a two-goal lead to knee cartilage problem. minute Antoine Griezmann winner to see Osasuna vs Alaves (1730), Las Palmas vs draw 3-3 away at Legia Warsaw. Marcelo and James Rodriguez should off FC Rostov 2-1. Eibar (1945) aurizio Sarri hopes The match was played behind closed also be fi t after missing the trip to War- Centre-back Stefan Savic is suspended his rejection of prov- doors due to violence and racist chanting saw, but Sergio Ramos, Casemiro and with Lucas Hernandez or the fi t-against Tomorrow en goalscorer Pierre- from Legia fans. Pepe remain sidelined. Jose Maria Gimenez set to deputise. Real Madrid vs Leganes (1100), Celta Vigo Emerick Aubam- Yet, only Mateo Kovacic’s equaliser It is the fi rst time Leganes have ever Kevin Gameiro should also replace Meyang does not return to haunt vs Valencia, Espanyol vs Athletic Bilbao fi ve minutes from time allowed Madrid faced Real in league action. Fernando Torres in attack. (1515), Villarreal vs Real Betis (1730), him when goal-shy Napoli host to extend their unbeaten run to 27 games, After a bright start to their debut La Real Betis coach Gustavo Poyet’s job Sevilla vs Barcelona (1945) Lazio today looking to save their wilting Serie A campaign. With goals steadily drying up LIGUE 1 amid the injury-enforced absence of Polish striker Arkaduisz Milik, Napoli president Aurelio De Lau- rentiis off ered earlier this week to table a bid for Borussia Dortmund marksman Aubameyang. File picture of Napoli’s Italian Sarri, however, rejected the head coach Maurizio Sarri. Falcao boosts Monaco hopes proposal claiming Milik would “return by mid- January” from a nine league goals of Italy forward AFP “We will be doing everything It remains to be seen if skip- cruciate knee ligament injury he Ciro Immobile. Paris to avoid that. In football, the per Thiago Silva will be fi t after suff ered last month. Although they have only one good things get forgotten quick- being KO’d in a collision with “I asked Sarri if he wanted win from their last fi ve outings ly. We need to maintain the same goalkeeper Alphonse Areola in (Aubameyang) and he told me he against Napoli, Serbian mid- ith one of the most dynamic,” said the 23-year-old. Switzerland. wouldn’t be suited to our style fi elder Sergej Milinkovic said the prolifi c strike-rates Still unbeaten after 11 match- Meanwhile, midfi elder Adr- of game,” De Laurentiis told the sky’s the limit. in Europe and Rad- es, Nice are enjoying the best ien Rabiot will hope to celebrate club’s radio station Kiss Kiss. “Napoli will be a diffi cult test amel Falcao back fi t start to a season in their history, his debut call-up to the France “I hope Arkaduisz returns in for us but we’ll be going there Wand on form, Monaco are look- inspired by the goals of Mario squad with a start against the January because in Sarri’s set-up with no pressure. We’re a strong ing to close the gap on local ri- Balotelli and Alassane Plea. Bretons. he needs a striker with specifi c squad, Inzaghi is doing a great vals Nice at the top of Ligue 1. Few would bet against them “For his age he has played a characteristics.” job and there’s a great feeling in The principality side are sec- continuing their run on Sunday lot of matches in Ligue 1 and the Fans also hope that tracksuit- the dressing room,” Milinkovic ond in the table, six points adrift when they go to Caen, a side in Champions League. wearing tactician Sarri, who said in Gazzetta dello Sport. of their Cote d’Azur neighbours the relegation zone with only He is responding to the chal- steered Napoli to the runners- “We’re fourth, and we want to before hosting struggling Nancy one win in eight league outings. lenge, and every time he has to up spot last season only to see keep on winning games. We have at the Stade Louis II today. They will have little time to take a step up he does so,” said De Laurentiis sell star striker to see how far we can go, but this They come into the game prepare for the trip to Norman- France coach Didier Deschamps Gonzalo Higuain to Juventus for season we should be targeting fresh from sweeping aside CSKA dy, though, having hosted Salz- of the 21-year-old. 90 million euros, is right. the Champions League.” Moscow 3-0 in the Champions burg in the Europa League on In other action, eighth-placed Napoli are already seven After Napoli’s defeat in Turin, League in midweek as Falcao Thursday. Lyon host Bastia aiming to build points adrift of Juventus, who where the aerial threat of Milik scored twice to take his tally for “We have two matches close on their draw at Juventus in the hold a four-point lead on Roma, was sorely missed, they can ill the season to six in nine matches together but that’s OK. We are Champions League and start with AC Milan and Lazio among aff ord to drop points, especially — the goals were his fi rst in the not going to complain at having climbing the table. the few teams also showing con- with Juventus expected to take competition in close to seven to play,” said coach Lucien Favre. sistent early-season promise. all three points at Chievo. years. FIXTURES Former Roma striker Vincenzo The Colombian is trying to re- File picture of Monaco’s Radamel Falcao celebrating after scoring RABIOT GETS CALL-UP (kick-off s 1900 GMT unless Montella’s magic at the Milan FIXTURES (GMT) launch a career that stalled dur- during the Champions League match against PFC CSKA Moscow. If they do slip up, reigning stated) helm has seen the revived Ros- Today ing two years on loan in the Eng- champions Paris Saint-Germain Today soneri up to third at only fi ve Torino vs Cagliari (1700), Napoli lish Premier League, although though the Catalans have played world-class striker. He is dem- will hope to take advantage as Monaco vs Nancy (1600 GMT), points off the pace ahead of Sun- vs Lazio (1945) he has spent much of this cam- one game less. onstrating that and will keep they entertain Rennes at the Angers vs Lille, Bordeaux vs Lori- day’s visit to Palermo. Tomorrow paign on the sidelines, fi rst with “Falcao is our leader, on and making progress.” Parc des Princes. ent, Dijon vs Guingamp, Lyon vs Lazio are just one point behind Pescara vs Empoli (1130), Chievo a hamstring injury and then a off the pitch,” said Monaco’s Opponents Nancy, who are Unai Emery’s side, who are Bastia, Nantes vs Toulouse in fourth while Napoli, after their vs Juventus (1400), Genoa vs bout of concussion. Brazilian midfi elder Fabinho af- reportedly on the verge of being third and level on points with 2-1 defeat to Juve last weekend, Udinese (1400), Palermo vs Even in his absence Monaco ter the CSKA match, highlight- bought out by a Chinese con- Monaco, are on a seven-game Tomorrow have dropped to fi fth. AC Milan (1400), Sassuolo vs have been banging in the goals — ing the striker’s importance. sortium, travel to the Mediter- unbeaten run and won 2-1 away Caen vs Nice (1400 GMT), Metz Coached by Simeone Inzaghi, Atalanta (1400), Fiorentina they are the most prolifi c side in “I think he came back to Mo- ranean in the relegation zone but to Basel in midweek to secure a vs Saint-Etienne (1600 GMT), Lazio are powering along thanks vs Sampdoria (1700), Inter vs Europe’s top fi ve leagues along- naco to show that he still has Fabinho dismissed any threat of place in the last 16 of the Cham- Paris Saint-Germain vs Rennes to the silky creative skills of Bra- Crotone (1700), Roma vs Bologna side Barcelona with 30 goals, al- that quality and can still be a complacency setting in. pions League. (1945 GMT) zilian Felipe Anderson and the (1945). Gulf Times Saturday, November 5, 2016 7 FOOTBALL

EPL PREVIEW IN SHORT Toure apologises to Man City for ‘misunderstandings’

Manchester City midfielder messages through this diff i- Yaya Toure yesterday apolo- cult period. This means a great Manchester City gised on behalf of his agent for deal to me and my family.” controversial comments which Toure, who is in the final year led to his exclusion from the of his contract, has been at Premier League team. City since joining from Bar- Manager Pep Guardiola has celona in 2010 and has won refused to pick Toure since two Premier League titles, two Dimitri Seluk claimed the League Cups and one FA Cup midfielder had been “humili- during that time. look to cap week ated” by his omission from the He played just once in the early club’s Champions League part of the season – the second squad in early September. leg of the Champions League Guardiola insisted Seluk play-off against Steaua Bucha- apologise before he would rest – as Guardiola rang the consider the 33-year-old Ivo- changes following his arrival. rian for selection again. No place could then be In a statement published on found for the Ivorian when to remember Facebook, Toure said: “I wish City submitted their 25-man to apologise – on behalf of my- squad, which could contain a self and those who represent maximum of 17 overseas play- ‘In this moment it’s not important to look at the table. If you ask me a prediction of me – to the management team ers, for the group stage of the and all those working at the European competition. our championship now, it’s very diff icult to talk about’ club for the misunderstand- Seluk, who has previously ings from the past. complained about a lack of “Those statements do not rep- Toure-branded shirts in the resent my views on the club or club shop and City’s failure to the people who work there. celebrate his client’s birthday “I have nothing but respect for properly, accused Guardiola of Manchester City and only wish humiliating the player. the best for the football club. Referring to other matters “I am immensely proud to involving Joe Hart and Vincent have played a part in the club’s Kompany, the Ukrainian said history and want to help City Guardiola was treating players succeed further. I live to play “like dogs”. football and entertain the fans. Guardiola had warned: “Until “On that note, I would like to he (Seluk) doesn’t speak, Yaya thank all of the fans for their is not going to play”. Villas-Boas replaces Eriksson at Shanghai SIPG Former Chelsea and Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas was unveiled as the new coach of Shanghai SIPG yesterday, replacing Sven-Goran Eriksson who was shown the door after guiding the team to third in the Chinese Super League. The highly regarded Villas- Boas, who left Zenit St. Peters- burg in May, bucks the trend of ageing managers cashing ingly losing the second leg 5-0. in on China’s football boom as SIPG have been among China’s he is just 39 and may have his biggest spenders as money best years ahead of him. pours into the Chinese game. SIPG believes the Portuguese This year they captured “can further enrich the team’s Brazilian forward Hulk for a tactics”, motivate players and reported 55 million euro ($60 “lead the team to march to- million). wards higher goals,” the club Villas-Boas becomes just the said in a statement. latest high-profile coach to be His appointment, widely lured to China, whose riches trailed in Chinese media, have become a magnet for top was confirmed shortly after foreign managers and players. SIPG announced Eriksson’s The Portuguese was only File picture of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola gesturing during his team’s Champions League match against Barcelona. departure following “friendly 33 when he won the Europa discussions”, ending a two- League with Porto in 2011, the AFP a fortnight ago – a move that sparked look at the table. If you ask me a predic- manager, believes his side may be paying year reign. “We sincerely hope prelude to spells at Chelsea London concerns regarding his Eastlands future tion of our championship now, it’s very he price for fi ghting on two fronts. everything goes well for Mr. and Tottenham Hotspur be- under Guardiola. diffi cult to talk about,” he said. “To play the Champions League and Eriksson’s future work and fore his two-year stint at Zenit But the City boss has insisted he wants Premier League, two of the toughest life,” SIPG said on a verified St. Petersburg. anchester City will have the Aguero to stay and the 28-year-old Ar- ‘TOUGHEST COMPETITIONS’ competitions in the world, it’s good to social media account. He is notably much younger chance to put daylight be- gentina forward said: “I’m never angry. I Arsenal have not lost in any competition analyse how we deal with that,” he said. SIPG were runners-up in the than his foreign peers includ- tween themselves and their respect every manager’s decision. since the opening day of the season and Jose Mourinho will hope his Man- CSL in Eriksson’s first year at ing Guangzhou Evergrande’s title rivals when the Premier “He said it was a tactical thing and I their midweek 3-2 win away to Bulgaria’s chester United side, already eight points the club, giving them a place Luiz Felipe Scolari (67), Hebei MLeague leaders try to cap a memorable obviously respect that.” Ludogorets, with Mesut Ozil’s superb adrift of top spot, can provide him with in this season’s AFC Cham- China Fortune’s Manuel Pel- week by beating Middlesbrough at East- Middlesbrough are managed by Guar- solo goal completing a comeback from some respite at second-bottom Swansea pions League, where they legrini (63) and Shandong lands today. diola’s fellow Spaniard Aitor Karanka and 2-0 down, has left the Gunners well- tomorrow following a mediocre display reached the last eight. Luneng’s Felix Magath (63). City lead on goal diff erence from Ar- he for one was not surprised by City’s placed to qualify for the last 16 of the in a 2-1 Europa League loss away to Fen- But Eriksson’s fate may have Sweden’s Eriksson, 68, coached senal and Liverpool, with Chelsea just a midweek win. Champions League. erbahce. been sealed when SIPG crashed England from 2001-2006 and point further back. “They have amazing players and they Having played 75 minutes against Lu- Mourinho, set to serve a touchline ban out to South Korea’s Jeonbuk went on to lead Manchester Arsenal are not in action until tomor- have all the alternatives so (for them) it dogorets, Wales midfi elder Aaron Ram- at the Liberty Stadium, accused his team Hyundai Motors, embarrass- City and Leicester City. row when they face Tottenham Hotspur was just another game,” said Karanka, sey – who has spent several weeks out of treating the match like a “summer in the North London derby, with Liver- whose Boro side beat Bournemouth 2-0 with a hamstring injury – is eager to start friendly”. Southampton face stern test at Hull pool also at home to Watford that day. last weekend. against Spurs at the Emirates, saying: “Of after Europa win, says Puel Tuesday fi nally saw City get the better Chelsea, fresh from a 2-0 win over course I’m ready.” FIXTURES (1500 GMT UNLESS STATED) of Barcelona as they beat the Spanish gi- Southampton and without the distrac- By contrast, Spurs were lacklustre Today: Bournemouth v Sunderland, Southampton manager ability, the capacity, to give a ants 3-1 in the Champions League. tion of European football, will bid to keep in a 1-0 loss to Bayer Leverkusen in the Burnley v Crystal Palace, Chelsea v Claude Puel believes tomor- good answer against Hull City It was a particularly sweet victory for pace with City at home to Everton. Champions League at Wembley. Everton (1730 GMT), Manchester City v row’s trip to a struggling Hull with a good attitude. City manager Pep Guardiola, who made Since reverting to a back three, man- They may boast the Premier League’s Middlesbrough, West Ham v Stoke City will be a test of his side’s “We have to have the answers his name as both a player and coach at ager Antonio Conte has seen his side lone remaining unbeaten record and are Tomorrow: Arsenal v Tottenham (1200 mettle after their stunning against Hull City. They have Barcelona. The match also saw City fans’ keep four clean sheets but the Italian has just three points off top spot, but Spurs GMT), Hull v Southampton (1415 GMT), Europa League win over Inter diff iculties, but it’s going to be favourite Sergio Aguero lead the attack no time for title talk at this stage of the have not won any of their last six games Leicester v West Brom (1630 GMT), Liv- Milan on Thursday. a very tough game.” after he was controversially left out of the season. in all competitions. erpool v Watford (1415 GMT), Swansea v Southampton came from Striker Shane Long, midfielder starting side for the 4-0 loss in Barcelona “In this moment it’s not important to Mauricio Pochettino, the Tottenham Manchester United behind to beat the Italian side Jake Hesketh, and defenders 2-1 and rise to second in their Cedric Soares, Jeremy Pied group, and Puel said his team and Matt Targett all missed EUROPA LEAGUE would have to show the right the match against Inter due to attitude to go into the interna- injury, and Puel said none of tional break still in the top half them would be available for of the Premier League table. the weekend. Southampton, who have “I don’t think we will see the injuries to several players, squad change for this week, Mourinho woes worsen in Istanbul are ninth in the 20-team table because all the injured play- while Hull are 18th. ers are still unavailable,” he AFP is easy... you come to Turkey and two fouls (on Fenerbahce players) “It’s important to stay in the added. Istanbul it’s completely diff erent. got two yellow cards... the foul on top half of the Premier League “After the game last night, “I told them to wait for that Pogba that brought him out of the heading into the international everyone was happy with the and not be focused on the game game was not a yellow card.” break,” the Frenchman told result. Now we have to stay enerbahce compounded we had at home. Mourinho said he did not reporters on Friday. calm and show good concen- the woes of Manches- “But we started the game know yet the extent of the injury “We will see if we have the tration.” ter United and their sleeping. They start at 100mph; to Pogba. manager Jose Mourinho we start really slow. They go im- Zlatan Ibrahimovic, like Europa League key results withF a 2-1 victory in the Europa mediately in there, we are sleep- Rooney booed at every touch by League that ruthlessly exposed ing we don’t react and then the the local fans, had a torrid game Group A Group H the shortcomings of the Premier game is a diff erent story.” but Mourinho praised the atti- Fenerbahce (TUR) 2 (Sow 2, Gent (BEL) 3 (K Coulibaly 1, League giants. “It is our fault that we let tude of his Swedish marksman. Lens 59) Manchester United Perbet 83, Milicevic 89) Sha- Roared on by home fans in their them be in front. We didn’t de- “He is playing well for the (ENG) 1 (Rooney 89) khtar Donetsk (UKR) 5 (Marlos 50,000 capacity stadium on the serve (to win).” team, he’s creating but is miss- 36-pen, Taison 41, Stepanenko Asian side of Istanbul, Fenerbahce Mourinho also said that United ing a lot of goals.” Group E 45+3, Fred 68, Ferreyra 87) produced a stunning performance were lacking confi dence in front Mourinho still believes Unit- Austria Vienna (AUT) 2 (Kay- capped by a brilliant Moussa Sow of goal and “one of the good things ed would still go through to the ode 2, A Gruenwald 89) AS Braga (POR) 3 (Velazquez 34, bicycle-kick goal and a Jeremain today is that Rooney fi nally scored knock out stages, even though Roma (ITA) 4 (Dzeko 5, 65, De Wilson Eduardo 45+1, Ricardo Lens free-kick. Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho. a goal” that could boost him. “We the team is now in third behind Rossi 18, Nainggolan 78) Horta 90+7) Konyaspor (TUR) Wayne Rooney managed to are fragile behind, yes we are and I Feyenoord and Fenerbahce who 1 (Rangelov 30) pull a goal back to create a tense the Premier League going into He admitted the game had also know we are, but we are not scor- both have seven points. Group F fi nal few minutes but it did a crucial clash with relegation- exposed the lack of proper central ing. You have to be stronger men- “We depend only on us. I think Athletic Bilbao (ESP) 5 (Aduriz Group J nothing to brighten a miserable threatened Swansea on Sunday defenders in the side and the lack tally and not start the game in the we are going to go through.” 8, 24-pen, 44-pen, 74, 90+4- Fiorentina (ITA) 3 (Ilicic 30- night for United. after a bruising 4-0 defeat by of confi dence in front of goal. way we did.” Mourinho said there would be pen) Genk (BEL) 3 (Bailey 28, pen, Kalinic 43, Cristoforo 73) United now face a tense three- Chelsea and a nervy 0-0 draw “What disappointed me more United also suff ered a major no place for Bastian Schwein- Ndidi 51, Susic 80) Slovan Liberec (CZE) 0 way battle for qualifi cation from with Burnley. is I have quite a big experience of blow with Paul Pogba limping steiger in the line-up against Group A with Fenerbahce and Mourinho said that the team playing against Turkish teams,” off injured and Mourinho la- Swansea, even though the Ger- Group G Group K Feyenoord who they now trail by had been caught “sleeping” and said the former Real Madrid and mented that no yellow card had man international has now re- Ajax (NED) 3 (Dolberg 41, Zi- Southampton (ENG) 2 (Van one point after four games played. had failed to heed his warnings Chelsea boss. been given for the challenge on turned to fi rst team training. yech 68, Younes 71) Celta Vigo Dijk 64, Nagatomo 70-og) Even more crucially, United over the toughness of playing “I passed all my experience. the French star. “No, it’s too early for him. He (ESP) 2 (Guidetti 79, Aspas 86) Inter Milan (ITA) 1 (Icardi 33) must resurrect their form in away matches in Istanbul. Play against them in our home “I only know that that the fi rst is not ready to play at this level.”

Saturday, November 5, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

EQUESTRIAN / GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR Bassem falls agonisingly short of victory on Day Two Qatari finishes 0.17 seconds outside Cian O’Connor’s time for a runner-up place on the penultimate day of the event

By Sahan Bidappa Doha

atar’s Bassem Hassan Mo- hamed put in a spirited dis- play with his 10-year-old grey gelding Argelith Squid, butQ had to settle for runner-up place, on the penultimate day of the Global Champions Tour last night. At the glittering Al Shaqab arena, cheered on by the holiday crowd, the local hope looked set to win the big event of the night, the CSI5* 1.45m Speed Class. Bassem and Argelith Squid cleared the course without any penalties in 63.28 seconds, but fell short of Cian O’Connor’s winning time by 0.17 seconds. O’Connor had fi nished his round with his nine-year-old bay Callisto ear- lier, as the Irishman set the pace after the favourites fell by the wayside. The 36-year-old cleared the tricky course with composure as Callisto combined Qatar Equestrian Federation president Hamad bin Abdulrahman al-Attiyah presents perfectly. O’Connor collected €8250 Cian O’Connor, on Callisto, with the award for his CSI5* 1.45m Speed Class win. for his eff ort. The third place went to Emily Moffi tt USA in Cassius Clay, the pair coming home in 65.11 seconds. In the penultimate event of the night, Germany’s Daniel Deusser surprised the fi eld with his talented nine-year- old-chestnut mare Happiness van T Qatar’s Bassem Hassan Mohamed in action on Argelith Squid in the CSI5* 1.45m Speed Class at the Al Shaqab Arena yesterday. Paradijs. The World No. 5 stormed to PICTURES: Garsi Lotfi victory in 24.47 seconds to clinch the the podium. CSI5* 1.45m event, taking home €8250 In the opening event of the day, the of the €25,000 prize money on off er, Invitational 1.20/1.25m competition, as he set up his weekend perfectly in Abdullah al-Rajhi of Saudi Arabia got Doha. the better of the Qataris to come on top. Great Britain’s Laura Renwick and Al-Rajhi astride H Zoe completed the MHS Washington looked set to chal- course in 36.80 seconds. He was richer lenge for the lead, however galloped to by 6,600 euros on the night. the fi nish just shy of Deusser’s time, in Qatari’s Mubarak Yousuf al-Rumaihi 24.75 seconds. The Third place went (Limoncello 6) and Salem Rashid Mo- to Sweden’s Olympic silver medallist hammed al-Marri (Marfurlong Magic) Peder Fredericson with H&M Zaloubet, fi nished second and third respectively. the pair fi nishing in 25.01 seconds. Tonight, the season will come to RESULTS closure with Rolf-Göran Bengtsson of Class N 3: Doha 2016 Invitational Sweden and Edwina Tops-Alexander of 1.20/1.25m Australia battling for the overall title. Table A: Against the Clock with Jump- The Grand Prix is nicely poised with Off QEF president Hamad bin Abdulrahman al-Attiyah presents Qatar’s Bassem Hassan Bengtsson looking for his maiden title, 1. Abdullah al-Rajhi, KSA (H Zoe) Time: Mohamed with the award for his runner-up finish. while Tops-Alexander goes for a record 36.80secs Prize: 6,600 euros third crown. 2. Mubarak Yousuf A S al-Rumaihi, QAT Class 01: Doha 2016 CSI5* 1.45m 3. Emily Moff itt, USA (Cassius Clay) 65.11; Bengtsson is fi ve points ahead of (Limoncello 6) 38.07; 4,000 Two Phases: A + A, Both Phases 3,750 Tops-Alexander, and the pair have been 3. Salem Rashid Mohammed al-Marri, Against the Clock in this position before, with the latter QAT (Marfurlong Magic) 38.59; 3,000. 1. Daniel Deusser, GER (Happiness van T TODAY’S SCHEDULE fi nishing on top in previous years. Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club general manager Nasser Sherida al-Kaabi presents Paradijs) 24.47; 8250 Euros 10:30 am: Invitational 1.20/1.25m - Two Last night, Grand Prix top contenders Germany’s Daniel Deusser with the award for his CSI5* 1.45m event win. Class N 4: Doha 2016 Invitational 2. Laura Renwick, UK (MHS Washington) Phases: A + A, Both Phases Against the Bengtsson and Tops-Alexander of Aus- 1.40m 24.75; 5,000 Clock tralia rode their fi rst-choice horses in the 61.84s, giving an early preview into just Clock competition, Khalid Moham- Table A: Against the Clock with Jump- 3. Peder Fredericson, SWE (H&M Zalou- 12:15 pm: Invitational 1.35/1.40m - Two two phase competition, with Casall ASK how evenly matched the Championship med al-Emadi emerged triumphant. Off bet) 25.01; 3,750. Phases: A + A, Both Phases Against the and Lintea Tequila jumping clear. contenders are. Al-Emadi partnered Tamira IV as the 1. Khalid Mohammed A S al-Emadi, QAT Clock The two Olympic riders looked The triple combination course along two came come in 36.68 seconds to take (Tamira IV) 36.68; 16,500 euros Class 02: Doha 2016 CSI5* 1.45m 2pm: CSI5* 1.50/1.55m Table A: Against pretty evenly matched, both picking the full length of the arena caused a few home 16,500 Riyals. Mubarak Yousuf 2. Mubarak Yousuf A S al-Rumaihi, QAT Table A: Against the Clock the Clock with Jump-Off up one time fault apiece and fi nishing troubles, with the fi nal element signi- al-Rumaihi (SIEC Cosmos Wijngaard- (SIEC Cosmos Wijngaardhoeve Z) 37.72; 1. Cian O’Connor, IRE (Callisto) 63.11; 5:15 pm GCT Grand Prix CSI5* 1.60m just tenths of a second apart. Edwina fying the end of the fi rst phase rolled by hoeve Z) and Nasser al-Ghazali (Quel 10,000 8250 Euros Table A: Two Rounds with Jump-Off , and Lintea Tequila fi nished on 61.01s, the lightest of touches. Homme) fi nished second and third re- 3. Nasser al-Ghazali, QAT (Quel Homme) 2. Bassem Hassan Mohammed, QAT 1st and 2nd Round Against the with Rolf and Casall ASK fi nishing on Earlier, in the 1.40m Against the spectively, to complete Qatar sweep of 40.53; 7,500. (Argelith Squid) 63.28; 5,000 Clock

TENNIS / PARIS MASTERS Konta and Kvitova into Elite Trophy Cilic stuns Djokovic to clear Murray top spot path semis

AFP AFP Paris Beijing

arin Cilic dumped a strug- ritain’s Johanna gling Novak Djokovic out of Konta and Czech the Paris Masters quarter- BPetra Kvitova fi nals yesterday to pave the secured the last two semi- Mway for Andy Murray to become the final slots in the $2.2mn new world number one. WTA Elite Trophy in Zhu- Cilic had lost all 14 previous meet- hai, China, yesterday. ings with Djokovic but cast the Serb’s Top seed Konta, who will 122-week reign at the top of the rank- be the first Briton to finish ings into serious doubt with a 6-4, 7-6 a WTA season in the top (2) victory. 10 since 1983, disposed of Murray was scheduled to face Tomas France’s Caroline Garcia Berdych for a place in the semi-fi nals 6-2, 6-2 in just over an later yesterday and is just two wins from hour. supplanting long-time rival Djokovic at The 25-year-old, who won the summit. her first WTA title at the If the Briton defeats Berdych he Stanford Classic earlier would then take on Milos Raonic or Jo- this year and reached the Wilfried Tsonga for a chance to claim China Open final in Beijing the number one ranking. last month, only lost 10 Record four-time champion Djoko- closed out a famous win at the fourth pay after failing to convert a set point. points on her own serve. vic arrived in Paris needing to reach the attempt. Sock was playing his 33rd match – In an all-Czech show- fi nal to ensure he remained ahead of a “It’s good for me, I played great ten- singles and doubles combined – in as down, third seed Kvitova rapidly approaching Murray. nis. He had beat me 14 times but we had many days and the American number beat compatriot Barbora But the Serb’s bid to register a fourth close matches and that helped me play one appeared to run out of steam as he Strycova – with whom straight title in the French capital ended better,” Cilic told Sky Sports. dropped serve early in the second. she will team up in next abruptly as an improbable escape act “I served really well today, hit the But the world number 24 rebounded week’s Fed Cup – 6-1, 6-4 fi zzled out against an in-form Cilic. spots well, I didn’t give him too many by breaking Isner’s serve for the fi rst to qualify for the next The ninth seed, who on Thursday chances.” time this week and then repeated the stage. qualifi ed for the Tour fi nals in London, Croatia’s Marin Cilic celebrates after beating Serbia’s Novak Djokovic (right) in the trick once more to force a third set. Russian Elena Vesnina broke immediately to signal his intent Paris Masters quarter-final yesterday. (Reuters / AFP) ISNER TRUMPS SOCK Isner raced 4-0 ahead in the decider, and Kiki Bertens of the against a player who had totally domi- American John Isner awaits Cilic in last and although Sock fought gamely to Netherlands were facing nated him in his career. the opening set. though, and had the top seed on the four after he outlasted compatriot Jack claw to within a break, his rally fell short off later in the final match In typical fashion Djokovic then hit Former US Open champion Cilic ropes as two match points passed him Sock 7-6, (8/6), 4-6, 6-4. this time. of the round-robin section back straight away to level, but Cilic’s threatened again early in the second, by at 6-5 on the Djokovic serve. Isner and Sock, who teamed up to win Berdych also has plenty at stake when of the tournament, but confi dence was undimmed and the but Djokovic landed a crucial break- However, there was to be no remark- the doubles in Shanghai last month, trad- he plays Murray with the 2005 Paris neither could reach the Croat capitalised on a shaky service through at 4-all to serve for the set. able recovery this time for Djokovic, as ed crunching blows as the fi rst set headed champion needing to win to stay in the semi-finals. game from his opponent at 5-4 to grab An undeterred Cilic broke back, Cilic took charge in the tie-break and to a tie-break, but the latter was made to race for the fi nal London berth.