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Friday, November 1, 2019 BASEBALL Rabia I 4, 1441 AH Nationals stun GULF TIMES Astros to clinch World Series SPORT Page 5

QNB STARS LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Maxwell takes break from over Brahimi double as mental health issues

Reuters

ustralia all-rounder Al Rayyan go top Glenn Maxwell is taking an indefi nite break from cricket with AL RAYYAN AND AL SAILIYA HAD AN EQUAL SHARE OF BALL POSSESSION Aimmediate eff ect as he under- goes treatment for mental health issues, coach Justin Langer said. Maxwell, who played in Aus- tralia’s two T20 wins against Sri Lanka in recent days and starred in the Adelaide series-opener, will be replaced by batsman D’Arcy Short for the third and fi nal match in Melbourne today. Langer said he had spoken to Langer said. Maxwell after sensing some- Melbourne man Maxwell thing was amiss with the hard- ranks among Australia’s top- hitting 31-year-old before the earning athletes, enjoying Adelaide game, Australia’s fi rst global prestige as a coveted international of the home sum- gun-for-hire in domestic T20 mer. competitions. But his goal of “I’m not sure what prompted breaking into the Test side, seen (it) just before Adelaide,” Langer as the pinnacle of the sport in told reporters in Melbourne. Australia, has largely been frus- “But you just could tell it was trated. not quite right and he probably He has been dropped several wasn’t going to say (anything). times in his career of seven tests “Even though in Adelaide he and was snubbed for the Ashes had that incredible innings and series played in England over fi elded like a genius like he can, I August-September. Australia By Sports Reporter with VAR. don’t think he got much joy out retained the urn. Doha Earlier, Qatar SC beat Al Shahania 1-0. of it, to be honest.” While a number of local pun- Uzbek striker Sardor Rashidov (45+1) A fan favourite and one of dits felt selectors had dealt with Al Rayyan’s Yacine scored the winning goal for Qatar SC as Australia’s most devastating Maxwell harshly, the cricketer lgerian international Yacine Brahimi gestures they moved on to nine points following batsmen in short-format crick- said he had moved on. Brahimi continued to exhibit his after scoring against their third victory. et, Maxwell was in fi ne touch at “You can’t play cricket bit- brilliance as his double helped Al Sailiya in the QNB The Kings had defeated Umm Salal 5-0 Adelaide Oval where he blasted ter, it detracts from yourself and Al Rayyan edge past Al Sailiya Stars League yesterday. last week. Their other victory was against 62 off 29 balls to hasten his team makes you stop concentrating A2-0 in Week 9 of the QNB Stars League at Al Khor (2-1) in Week 5. to a 134-run victory. on what you need to do,” Max- Photo on top shows the Al Ahli Stadium yesterday. Al Rayyan players Qatar SC have been making steady He was also his usual energet- well said in a recent interview Both of Brahimi’s goals (seventh and celebrating their progress ever since they had a change at ic presence in the fi eld, eff ecting with Espncricinfo. 90+3 minutes) had individual brilliance victory. the helm, with former Qatar internation- a brilliant run-out and engaging A number of top Australian written all over them. The attacking mid- PICTURES: Noushad T al and Al Sadd midfi elder Wesam Rizik in banter with broadcasters. cricketers have battled mental fi elder, who represented top Portuguese coming in place of Spanish coach Carlos “They often put on a mask,” health problems in recent years. side Porto and the Algerian national team Alos Ferrer recently. Langer said of people suff ering Much-hyped talent Will Pu- for long, is proving a worthy addition ever Al Shahania, who were coming from mental health problems. covski took a break from domes- since he joined Al Rayyan at the start of three consecutive draws (against Umm “In public positions they have tic cricket a year ago and also this season. Salal, Al Ahli and Al Sailiya) could not to put on a mask all the time. withdrew from the test squad in Al Rayyan raised their points tally to make a breakthrough and lost three cru- That’s his armour, his energy January to undergo treatment. 21 and are top of the table now, while Al cial points. and the way he plays.” Three-Test batsman Nic Sailiya remained on 11. Qatar SC dominated possession (57 per Maxwell, who has played 110 Maddinson also took time off in It was also The Lions’ sixth straight cent) in the fi rst half even though A Sha- one-day internationals and 61 2017 after being dropped from victory. They thus made up for their se- hania succeeded in restricting them from T20Is, will be assessed in Mel- the test side before returning to date start to the tournament and stay as scoring in regular time. bourne over the next “day or so”, the game after treatment. strong title-contending side. Qatar SC created more chances, while Al Rayyan and Al Sailiya had precisely Al Shahania players resorted to wayward equal share of ball possession in terms of shooting and headers. F1 presents new car and rules revamp for 2021 percentage. Al Sailiya even matched their Al Rayyan had almost doubled the Sailiya’s spearhead. He had a header go However, The Kings went into the half- more famous rivals ball for ball, but it was lead in the 13th minute, but for Al Sailiya over the bar in the 29th minute. Overall, time break on the back of a one-goal lead, A mockup of Al Rayyan who created more opportuni- goalkeeper Khalifa Aboobacker tipping The Peregrines’ attacks lacked bite. thanks to Rashidov who easily placed a car is shown ties. Brahimi scored his fi rst goal after the ball over the bar after Rodrigo Tabata Al Sailiya appealed for a penalty to- home a cross from Kayke Rodriguez in on a screen latching on to a through pass by Khaled fi red a free-kick. wards the end after Al Rayyan defender stoppage time. in a press Muftah and evading the tackle of Mostafa Tabata was later replaced by Sebastian Dami Traore brought down Ansari inside Ali Ferydoon and Ramin Rezaein tried conference to Abdelhamid. He scored for a second time Soria. the box, but referee Abdulrahman al- hard to draw parity for Al Shahania in the announce the off a defl ection off a rival player. Iranian striker Karim Ansari was Al Jassim decided against it in consultation second half, but in vain. rules for the 2021 Formula One season in SPOTLIGHT Austin, Texas, yesterday.

Al Shaqab’s Khataab wins Group 1 in Bordeaux Austin: Formula One pre- ness for all,” said Formula One sented a dramatic overhaul of chairman Chase Carey. the sport yesterday with a new “The approval of the rules by By Our Correspondent car and regulations aimed at the World Motorsport Council Bordeaux, France producing closer and cheaper is a watershed moment and competition from 2021 as well will help deliver more exciting as more exciting and environ- wheel to wheel racing for all l Shaqab Racing’s Khataab landed the mentally-friendly racing. our fans.” French Purebred Arabian Breeders’ Chal- The new technical, sporting The heavier 2021 cars are the lenge, a Group 1 for four-year-old and older and financial rules include a products of a changed aerody- Purebred Arabians, in Bordeaux, France, budget cap and represent the namic approach, with simpler Ayesterday. The Thomas Fourcy-trained seven-year- fruit of two years of discus- front wings and bigger wheels. old lined up in the 1900m event as the favourite and sions between teams, govern- The budget cap has been did not disappoint, winning by four lengths in front ing body and US-based com- set at $175mn for each team, of his nearest rival. mercial rights holders Liberty about half what some of the In the early stage of the black type event, grey son Media and other stakeholders. top outfits like Mercedes, of Amer sat in the rear through the race before cruis- They were earlier approved Ferrari or Red Bull spend at ing past the outside of the racing pack to win with unanimously by the govern- present but still much more impressive ease in the hands of jockey Jerome Cabre. ing FIA’s World Motor Sport than some others can muster. It was a one-two for Al Shaqab Racing and Fourcy Council, with talks continuing Formula One’s managing with Kair Al Cham being the runner-up under Julien over governance and profit director for motorsport Ross Auge. X Thomas-Demeaulte-trained Belqees, ridden sharing. Brawn recognised the new by Ioritz Mendizabal, was a further length behind in “The goal has always been to cars would be slower than the third. improve the competition and 2019 ones, but still quick and Alban de Mieulle-bred Khataab came here off an action on the track and at the closer to the levels of perform- excellent second place in the Group 1 Qatar Arabian same time make the sport a ance seen in 2016 as well as World Cup, which was run on the Qatar Prix de l’Arc Jerome Cabre rides Khataab to French Purebred Arabian Breeders’ Challenge (Group 1) in Bordeaux, France, healthier and attractive busi- easier to follow and overtake. de Triomphe day, behind champion Ebraz. yesterday. (Robert Polin) Gulf Times 2 Friday, November 1, 2019 SPORT

SERIE A Benzema stars as Madrid put fi ve Ronaldo hits late past limp Leganes AFP grabbing an early goal and pro- Madrid viding the frightening turn of pace that Bale once off ered be- fore injuries took their toll. eal Madrid registered Perhaps the only question Juventus winner their biggest win since mark was Eden Hazard, who still Zinedine Zidane’s appears short of his best in a Ma- return as coach on drid shirt. There were glimpses Atalanta twice fought back from a goal behind to hold Napoli to a 2-2 draw WednesdayR night as they de- of the Belgian’s undeniable bril- molished struggling Leganes 5-0 liance but moments of indecision to move up to second in La Liga. too, that suggest he is fi nding his Karim Benzema was the star of feet, and fi tness, at his new club. the show, the Frenchman round- Madrid’s victory keeps them ing off a superb attacking display just a point behind Barcelona, with a goal from the penalty spot who thrashed Real Valladolid on after Rodrygo, and Tuesday, and pushes them one another spot-kick from Sergio ahead of Atletico, with a game in Ramos had already put Leganes hand over their city rivals. Two out of sight. Luka Jovic added a goals arrived in the seventh and fi fth in injury-time. eight minutes and Benzema pro- “We have not scored fi ve goals vided each of them, fi rst keeping for a long time,” said Zidane. “We alive Hazard’s cross for Rodrygo needed a victory like that. When to poke home before teeing up you start scoring goals, it makes Kroos to fl ick in at the near post. everything easier.” Gareth Bale Leganes looked jaded, without was absent as he continues to re- belief or direction, and they fell cover from a calf injury but Ma- three down before the interval as drid hardly missed the Welsh- Hazard was fouled by Juan Sori- man, whose future has again ano after a superb through ball been up for discussion this week from Casemiro. Ramos missed after he was pictured returning the penalty but was given a sec- to London. Zidane said he has ond attempt, VAR prompting spoken to Bale and saw him in the a re-take for the fi rst time in La changing room at the Santiago Liga after Soriano sprung off his Bernabeu. He was also asked if line too early. This time, Ramos Bale had permission to leave the made no mistake. game fi ve minutes before full- Benzema had hit the post af- time. “I think so,” Zidane said. ter a smart dummy from Haz- “If he leaves fi ve minutes before ard before fi nally he got the goal the game fi nishes, he can get he deserved after Luka Modric home more easily.” earned a spot-kick with a slick Zidane had struck a concili- turn around Kenneth Omeruo. atory tone on Tuesday too but Benzema converted and then de- Bale’s teammates fl ourished in parted to a standing ovation. Jo- his absence, albeit against a limp vic was his replacement and af- Leganes side, who remain rooted ter having one goal ruled out for to the bottom of the table after off side the Serbian also made his sacking their coach Mauricio mark. Dani Carvajal’s cross of- Pellegrino last week. fered up a simple header to make This was not a performance to it fi ve. recommend caretaker manager Luis Cembranos for the job long- LA LIGA RESULTS term. Yet there were some im- 1 (Willian Jose 47) pressive Madrid showings none- theless, not least from Benzema, Levante 2 (Bardhi 24, Mayoral who has been Zidane’s most con- 40); Valencia 1 (Sobrino 81) Se- sistent performer by far in recent villa 1 (Ocampos 45+3); Athletic Juventus’ forward Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring during the Italian Serie A football match against Genoa in Turin on Wednesday night. (AFP) months and now has seven goals Bilbao 3 (Muniain 4, 17, Gomez already in all competitions. 79-o.g.) Espanyol 0; 2 (Emerson Aparecido 8, Fekir 90) AFP Motta, played most of the second half referee who kicks out a gentleman like before the dismissal of Fazio for a foul as Rodrygo, the 18-year-old Celta Vigo 1 (Aspas 70-pen); Real Milan with 10 men after Francesco Cassata was Ancelotti? We’re fed up. Without us the the last defender. Chris Smalling doubled making only his fourth senior sent off , while Juve substitute Adrien Ra- referees would be peeling potatoes. We’re Roma’s lead early in the second half with appearance, came into Bale’s po- Madrid 5 (Rodrygo 7, Kroos 8, biot was dismissed late on for two book- tired of paying for this standard of ref- a Justin Kluivert goal and Aleksandar sition on the right and, particu- Ramos 24-pen, Benzema 69-pen, ristiano Ronaldo converted a able off ences. ereeing.” Kolarov penalty wrapping up victory. larly in the fi rst half, he shone, Jovic 90+1) Leganes 0 96th-minute penalty as Juven- Atalanta twice fought back from a goal Nikola Maksimovic had headed Napoli Ciro Immobile struck twice to take his tus defeated Thiago Motta’s behind to hold Napoli to a 2-2 draw at the into the lead on 16 minutes, but Remo league-leading tally to 12 goals as Lazio Genoa 2-1 to reclaim top spot in San Paolo, where a fi ery ending resulted Freuler levelled just before half-time swept Torino aside 4-0. SerieC A on Wednesday night, while Na- in red cards for Carlo Ancelotti and his when his shot squirmed through goal- Cagliari extended their unbeaten run poli were left seething after conceding a assistant. Josip Ilicic struck a contentious keeper Alex Meret. Polish striker Arkadi- to eight games with a 3-2 win over Bolo- disputed late equaliser against Atalanta. 86th-minute equaliser that was upheld usz Milik hit the post and crossbar before gna while Fiorentina came from behind Ronaldo sat out the 1-1 draw at Lecce following a lengthy VAR review, as Napoli putting Napoli back on top on 71 minutes to defeat Sassuolo 2-1. Sampdoria re- over the weekend but Juve looked set to appealed for a penalty. when he raced onto a Fabian Ruiz pass main rooted to the foot of the table de- drop more points on his return in Turin Napoli forward Fernando Llorente and rounded Pierluigi Gollini. spite Gaston Ramirez salvaging a 1-1 draw as Christian Kouame’s fl uke equaliser tumbled to the ground after jostling with However, Ilicic levelled and nearly with an injury-time equaliser at home to cancelled out a header from Leonardo Simon Kjaer in the Atalanta area before grabbed a winner in stoppage time for Lecce. Bonucci. The Portuguese forward saw a the visitors countered and scored through Atalanta, who stayed third but now trail ITALIAN SERIE A RESULTS stoppage-time strike ruled out by VAR Ilicic. A fi ve-minute interruption fol- leaders Juve by fi ve points. “From the Napoli 2 (Maksimovic 16, Milik 71) Ata- for off side before he won a last-gasp pen- lowed before the referee awarded the goal pitch, I thought it was a penalty. Then, alty after he was fouled by Toni Sanabria. without reviewing the incident on the seeing the images, I saw a big elbow to lanta 2 (Freuler 41, Ilicic 86); Cagliari 3 Ronaldo drilled the spot-kick low be- touchline monitor. Kjaer’s face,” Atalanta boss Gian Piero (Joao Pedro 48, 83, Simeone 72) Bologna yond Ionut Radu for his fi fth league goal “I consider what happened an attack Gasperini said of the passage of play that 2 (Santander 23-pen, Olsen 90+1-og); Ju- of the season to send Maurizio Sarri’s on my professionalism, my players and led to his team’s controversial equaliser. ventus 2 (Bonucci 36, Ronaldo 90+6-pen) Juve back above Inter Milan at the sum- my club,” Ancelotti said. “The images are very clear. Whoever was Genoa 1 (Kouame 40); Lazio 4 (Acerbi mit. “It was a diffi cult game against a well Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis in the VAR booth confi rmed what the ref- 25, Immobile 33, 70-pen, Belotti 90+1-og) organised team but Juve must keep going was livid with the offi ciating. “If there is eree saw, but I’m rightly biased.” Torino 0; Sassuolo 1 (Boga 24) Fiorentina until the end,” Ronaldo said. “We suff ered VAR it’s pointless creating eight minutes Roma climbed above Napoli into fourth 2 (Castrovilli 63, Milenkovic 81); Udi- a lot tonight but we created a lot and de- of additional time because all that hap- after a 4-0 rout of Udinese despite losing nese 0 Roma 4 (Zaniolo 13, Smalling 51, served this win.” pens is pushing and shouting,” he said. Federico Fazio to a red card on 31 min- Kluivert 54, Kolarov 65-pen); Sampdoria 1 Real Madrid’s Eden Hazard (centre) and Leganes’ Rodrigo Tarin vie Genoa, in their second game under “And what is this buff oonery from the utes. Nicolo Zaniolo opened the scoring (Ramirez 90+2) Lecce 1 (Lapadula 8) for the ball during the La Liga match in Madrid. (Reuters)

SPOTLIGHT Qatar 2022 legacy project kicks off link-up with Leeds and Sheffi eld FC IFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Football has always brought communi- legacy programme Generation ties together and as a one-club city we Amazing kicked off its partner- know that better than anyone. This lat- ship with illustrious English est initiative will help us do just that.” clubsF Leeds United and Sheffi eld FC Sheffi eld FC Foundation Director by holding ‘train the trainer’ sessions Chris Dolby said: “The partnership will for underprivileged youth in the clubs’ give our football clubs the opportunity communities. to make a real diff erence across our com- Young people, including refugees, munities. Football has the power to bring attended training sessions at Shef- people together and through this part- fi eld FC’s Coach and Horses ground to nership we aim to positively impact lives. learn how to deliver Generation Amaz- We want to develop outreach and educa- ing’s football for development sessions, tion programmes that will empower a which teach life skills such as com- new generation of young leaders.” munication, teamwork and leadership, Leeds United and Sheffi eld FC have while promoting diversity, inclusion, collaborated closely to ensure that a equal rights and communal solidarity. coach and joint representative of the Once training has concluded, at- clubs was trained and equipped to head tendees will deliver similar sessions to the implementation of the Generation underprivileged youth across the UK. Amazing programme. Nasser al-Khori, Generation Amazing Generation Amazing Master Coach Programme Director, expressed his de- Michael Richardson, who led the train- light at the programme’s expansion – at ing sessions, expects the partnership a time when both clubs are celebrating to deliver positive change in the clubs’ major landmarks. communities. “We are excited about Leeds United are currently marking activating the partnership because we their centenary year having celebrated understand the context in which these their 100th birthday on 17 October, clubs work in the community. We gen- while Sheffi eld FC – the oldest club in The long-term aim of the link-up is to enhance the clubs’ outreach and boost the educational football programmes in their communities. uinely think that Generation Amazing world football – will celebrated their will have a big impact and pass on the 162nd anniversary on 24 October. “We and empower them with skills that will our growing outreach with than Leeds boost the educational football pro- which will allow us to support people in values and philosophy we have devel- are delighted to extend the Generation benefi t their development and help United and Sheffi eld FC – especially at grammes in their communities. the community who need our help via oped over several years.” Amazing football for development pro- them become exemplary fi gures and a time when both are celebrating land- Angus Kinnear, CEO of Leeds United, the medium of football. Using football Generation Amazing, Leeds United gramme to underprivileged youth and leaders in their communities.” mark moments.” said: “We are delighted to be partnering to help people communicate and learn a and Sheffi eld FC are committed to pos- refugees in the UK,” said al-Khori. “It is Al-Khori continued: “We can’t The long-term aim of the link-up with Generation Amazing and Sheffi eld variety of other life skills is the founda- itively impacting as many lives as pos- important to us that we can reach youth think of any better clubs to celebrate is to enhance the clubs’ outreach and FC on the train the trainer programme, tion of why we all work in this industry. sible during the four-year partnership. Gulf Times Friday, November 1, 2019 3 SPORT

LEAGUE CUP Liverpool in quarters aft er thriller against Arsenal Solskjaer rewarded for naming a strong team as Manchester United beat Chelsea to continue their recent revival

AFP London

iverpool reached the League Cup quarter-fi nals in thrilling style as their incredible 5-5 draw against Arsenal was followed by La 5-4 penalty shoot-out triumph, while Manchester United won 2-1 at Chelsea on Wednesday. Both Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and Arsenal boss made 11 changes for the fourth round tie, but the understudies served up one of the most entertaining games of the season at Anfi eld as the Gunners squandered multiple leads. In the shoot-out, Dani Ceballos’ penalty was saved by 20-year-old Irish keeper Caoimhin Kelleher before Liv- erpool-born 18-year-old Curtis Jones converted the winning kick. Liverpool have won the League Cup a record eight times and they remain on course to lift the trophy for the fi rst time since 2012. “We were too open at times. We can talk about tactics but who cares on a night like this? I hoped for the boys they would have a game to remember,” Klopp said. “It’s like a dream for them to play for the fi rst time at Anfi eld. All our goals were wonderful.” After ’s astonishing outburst at Arsenal fans during Sun- day’s traumatic draw with Crystal Palace, this was another body blow for Arsenal, who lost despite leading 3-1, 4-2 and then 5-4 with sec- onds to go. “A crazy match. At the end we were winning until the last action. Penalties are 50-50 and we lost. We are sad but we deserve more,” Emery said. With an average age of 23 years and 122 days, it was Liverpool’s young- Liverpool’s Curtis Jones (right) celebrates after scoring the winning penalty in a shoot-out during the English League Cup fourth round match against Arsenal at on Wednesday night. (AFP) est starting eleven in any competition since January 2017 as teenagers Neco Emery’s team took the lead in the the 70th minute with another contend- in United’s win at Norwich on Sunday, drawn away at Manchester United in with Aston Villa to host Liverpool and Williams, Harvey Elliott, Rhian Brews- 26th minute through Gabriel Martinel- er for goal of the night, the midfi elder Solskjaer’s team went in front thanks their quarterfi nals. Colchester — the Everton at home to Leicester City. ter and Sepp van den Berg all featured. li. He struck again 10 minutes later with sprinting away before unleashing a 25- to a successful spot-kick in the 26th lowest ranked side remaining in the Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp Liverpool’s rookies went ahead after his seventh goal in seven appearances yard rocket. Remarkably, Origi acro- minute at the Bridge. Daniel James was competition — have lost both times threatened to call a halt to his side’s just six minutes as Alex Oxlade-Cham- this season. reduced Liv- batically volleyed Liverpool’s equaliser fouled by Marcos Alonso and Rashford they have faced United: 1-0 in the FA participation because the quarterfi nal berlain sent over a low cross and Arse- erpool’s defi cit with a 43rd-minute in stoppage time, setting the stage for stepped up to send Willy Caballero the Cup fi fth round in 1978-79 and 2-0 in is too close to the FIFA World Club Cup. nal defender Shkodran Mustafi , sliding penalty, before Ainsley Maitland-Niles their shoot-out success. wrong way from the spot for his sixth the League Cup third round in 1983-84. Liverpool are due to play in the semi- in to clear, accidentally defl ected it onto got Arsenal’s fourth goal in the 54th At Stamford Bridge, Ole Gunnar goal of the season. Having knocked out last season’s fi nals in Qatar on December 18 and the his knee and into the back of his own minute. Solskjaer was rewarded for naming a Michy Batshuayi equalised from long Champions League fi nalists Tottenham League Cup quarter-fi nals are sched- net. Oxlade-Chamberlain got one back strong team as United beat Chelsea to range in the 61st minute, but Rashford’s Hotspur in the third round, Colchester uled for that week. Arsenal drew level in the 19th minute for Liverpool with a thunderous long- continue their recent revival. Solskjaer superb 30-yard free-kick won it for are keen for another high-profi le giant- However, the EFL — organisers of via an assist from the rarely used Mesut range drive four minutes later. And made just four changes, while Chelsea United in the 73rd minute. Aston Villa killing act. the League Cup — released a statement Ozil, who was making his only his third equalised with an even boss Frank Lampard made six and it was moved into the last eight with a 2-1 win Holders Manchester City also face saying they were talking to Liverpool appearance of the season and his fi rst better strike in the 62nd minute as the fi ve-time League Cup winners United over local rivals Wolves. lower-league opposition as they trav- about an alternative date. “The EFL is since September 24. Ozil picked out Belgian spun sharply before blasting who came out on top as they enjoyed a el to third tier Oxford United — who in discussions with Liverpool to iden- in space and when his shot into the top corner from the edge of the third successive victory. FOURTH-TIER COLCHESTER GET knocked out Manchester United in the tify an alternative date given the club’s was saved, the unmarked Lucas Tor- area. After Marcus Rashford and An- DREAM DRAW WITH MAN UNITED fourth round of the 1983-1984 edition. participation in the FIFA Club World reira slotted home. But Willock restored Arsenal’s lead in thony Martial both missed penalties Fourth-tier Colchester United werer There are two all-Premier League ties Cup competition,” they said.

QNB STARS LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Arabi aim to reignite top-four hopes Al Shaqab conducts fi rst internal competition of Academic Year l Shaqab, the member of factors behind organizing in- SHOWJUMPING RESULTS Qatar Foundation, has ternal competitions is to allow Foundation Level 1 <0.8m: 1. successfully completed students to gain practical expe- Faris Qarqash; 2. Abdulla al-Kabi; the fi rst Equine Educa- rience in competitions, display 3. Abdulla al-Fadala tionA Department (EED) Internal the skills that they have learned, Competition of the 2019/2020 and earn ranking points for their Foundation Level 1: 1. Saif academic year. The two-day advancement to the next level of al-Kabi; 2. Mohamed al-Mutawa; event was aimed at encouraging their curriculum. 3. Meryam Muzaferij and inspiring Al Shaqab’s stu- Mohammed Sultan al-Suwai- Foundation Level 2: 1. May dent riders. di, Manager, Equine Education al-Thani; 2. Tayiba Muzaferija; Students competed in the Department at Al Shaqab, said: 3. Abdulla Al Julandani popular Olympic disciplines of “We aim to conduct periodic in- Intermediate Level 5: 1. Abdul- showjumping and dressage. The ternal competitions during the competition was open to student school year, as they contribute rehman al-Bukhari; 2. Jassim riders of all skill levels and was signifi cantly towards providing al-Kuwari; 3. Carlota al-Arcon conducted in the Al Shaqab Main our student riders with much- Intermediate Level 5 (with Indoor Arena. Al Shaqab’s EED needed experience and develop- Ranking): 1. Abdullaziz organises four internal competi- ing their confi dence in competi- al-Ghanim; 2. Mohamed tions every academic year as part tions. The competition is open al-Derbesti; 3. Danae Looman of its curriculum-based eques- to all our students. As we evalu- DRESSAGE: 1. Nayla Tamim trian education system. ate the progress of our riders Al Arabi coach Heimir Hallgrimsson (right) and midielder Yousef Abdulrazaq address a press conference. al-Thani; 2. Hamad Faisal The curriculum-based eques- through these competitions, it al-Thani; 3. Habeb Waed friendly matches against them and lost both. “Wakrah always play to win, but it is foot- trian education off ered by the Al also off ers our student riders the By Sports Reporter al-Hamza; 4. Saoud Faisal Doha I know their coach very much, he manages ball and it is diffi cult for all teams to win all Shaqab EED equips the students opportunity to learn to compete the team well,” said. Hallgrimsson their games. Arabi strikers are good at head- with skills to progress profes- with a true sense of sportsman- al-Thani; 5. Khalid Faisal al-Thani; “Our team is developing technically. The ers and they are eff ective in front of the goal. sionally. One of the motivating ship.” 6. Aisha Tariq al-Khater l Arabi will look to get back to win- onus is on the players to perform on the I hope we will be back to our winning ways ning ways when they host Al Wak- pitch. Some of them play without pressure with the result against Al Arabi. We will give rah in the QNB Stars League today. and some play with pressure. We have to all our eff orts to win,” he added. Arabi, who were fl ying high after exhibit the same level with which we played anA impressive to start to the season, have against Al Rayyan in order to win. Players’ AHLI TAKE ON UMM SALAL suff ered back-to-back defeats and have slid mindset and their desire to achieve the best In another match today, Al Ahli will wel- to fi fth in the points table results have big roles to play. I would like to come Umm Salal. Ahli had lost 1-2 to Al The Dream Team lost 0-1 to Al Gharafa in thank our fans for supporting the team,” he Sadd in the previous round, so they are keen Week 7 and 1-2 to Al Rayyan last week. They added. Hallgrimsson will rely on the likes of to bag full points in their bid to fi nish among are on 13 points from seven matches. How- Hamdi Harbaoui, Pierre-Michel Lassoga, the top four. The Brigadiers have 10 points ever, Arabi have the advantage of having El Neel, Morteza Mohamed with three victories, one draw and four de- played one match less as their Week 5 fi xture and Yousef Abdulrazaq for the much-need- feats against their name. Umm Salal are also against Al Sadd was deferred due to the lat- ed victory. coming from a defeat as they lost 0-5 to Qa- ter’s AFC Champions League engagement. Meanwhile, Al Wakrah coach Marquez tar SC. The result saw their Spanish coach Arabi coach Hallgrimsson said today’s Lopez was hopeful of his side’s victory. Wak- Raul Caneda being replaced by Tunisian match against Wakrah would be an impor- rah are at eight placed, with same number Ahmed El Abyad. The Orange Fortress have tant one for his side, if they want sneak back of points. “We are coming from the Second only one victory to their credit. into top four. “We still have the opportunity Division, but we are capable of putting up Umm Salal, who used to regularly end up to get back to the top-four bracket. I think strong performances. The absence of play- in the top rung, have only fi ve points and we are on track and we did well against Al maker Cristian Ceballos undoubtedly af- they need to pull up their socks sooner rath- Rayyan. Wakrah game is important for us, fected the team. I always try to fi nd the best er than later if they are to get a respectable they are are a good side. We had played two formation for each game,” Lopez said. fi nish this season. Al Shaqab students compete at the Equine Education Department (EED) Internal Competition. Gulf Times 4 Friday, November 1, 2019

FOCUS FIVE OF THE BEST ENGLAND VS SOUTH AFRICA MATCHES

rief descriptions of broke clear in the 63rd minute fi ve key matches be- when centre tween South Africa scored the sole try of the game and England ahead of against the run of play. tomorrow’sB fi nal at Yokohama Ford at fl y-half England flanker International Stadium. charged down a clearance kick The countries have played 42 from Springboks flyhalf Louis tests with South Africa winning Koen and Greenwood showed 25 and England 15. There have his footballing skills to get the been two draws. ball over the line and touch down. 2007 — SOUTH AFRICA 15 Johnny Wilkinson, the England as fearless England ENGLAND 6 (PARIS) flyhalf, kept up his 100% record South Africa won the game’s at the tournament with four biggest prize for the second penalties, a conversion and time after a try-less World two late drop goals that took Cup final in which they never the match beyond the reach of needed to move away from the the Springboks. safety-first approach that got Not the most fluent them there. performance from eventual unchanged for fi nal Fullback champions England but it kicked four penalties and all but secured them a place ‘It’s less about the volume of training, it’s more about sharpening the sword’ centre Francois Steyn added in the quarter-finals as pool a fifth but the match turned winners. AFP on referee Alain Rolland’s Tokyo decision to rule out a try from 2002 — ENGLAND 52 England’s soon SOUTH AFRICA 3 after halftime. (TWICKENHAM) ngland fl y-half George A clean break from centre This humiliating low for the Ford will start the Rugby got England down Springboks came after lock World Cup fi nal against to the South Africa line and Jannes Labuschagne had been South Africa after coach Cueto went over in the corner sent off in the 23rd minute EddieE Jones named an un- but Rolland reviewed the for a late shoulder charge changed XV yesterday. television footage and decided on England flyhalf Jonny Owen Farrell started at fl y- the winger’s foot had strayed Wilkinson. half in the quarter-fi nal win into touch before he got the The brutality with which the over Australia but moved to in- ball down. South Africans approached side centre for the stunning 19-7 the contest shocked many semi-fi nal victory over reigning 2007 — SOUTH AFRICA 36 and there was scant sympathy champions New Zealand, when ENGLAND 0 (PARIS) as they fell to their heaviest Ford resumed the number 10 The second match of England’s test defeat. England scored shirt. World Cup title defence was seven tries as they shored The lone change to Eng- a pool-stage thrashing and up their credentials ahead of land’s match-day 23 to face the followed two heavy defeats their run to a maiden World Springboks in Yokohama to- to the Springboks in South Cup triumph in Australia the morrow is on the bench where Africa in June internationals following year. scrum-half Ben Spencer, who that year. South Africa exposed only arrived in Japan on Mon- the frailties of the reigning 1999 — SOUTH AFRICA 44 day, replaces the injured Willi champions in clinical fashion, ENGLAND 21 (PARIS) Heinz. with winger JP Pietersen A remarkable kicking display Both Farrell, continuing his crossing twice, flanker Juan from flyhalf Jannie de Beer dual playmaker partnership Smith once and fullback Percy ultimately enabled South Africa with childhood friend Ford, Montgomery adding 18 points to blow out the scoreline in and wing Jonny May have been from the boot. what had been a tight quarter- passed fi t following dead legs While the Springboks stormed final at the . suff ered against the All Blacks, through the rest of their pool De Beer’s faultless kicking while prop Kyle Sinckler has matches, England recovered contributed 34 points to his been given the all-clear follow- from their heaviest defeat at team’s tally and his five drop ing a calf injury sustained in the World Cup to stun Australia goals were unprecedented in the semi-fi nal win. Spencer’s in the quarter-finals, beat the test game. three replacement appearances France in the semis and join The defending champions amount to just over 20 minutes them in the final. also had tries from scrumhalf of Test rugby. and “It has been a good week, the 2003 — ENGLAND 25 winger Pieter Rossouw as they players have been together a England’s fly-half George Ford takes part in a training session at Fuchu Asahi Football Park in Tokyo yesterday. (AFP) SOUTH AFRICA 6 (PERTH) eased into a semi-final against while now so it’s less about the A tight Rugby World Cup Australia, which they would volume of training this week, have to fi ght really hard to win,” they have played all tournament have won both their previous day, with the return of fi t-again Pool C tussle was tied 6-6 at lose to a it’s more about sharpening the added Jones, a consultant to the so we need to be good in the World Cup fi nals, defeating the wing Cheslin Kolbe the only halftime and England only drop goal in extra time. Reuters sword,” said Jones, the coach of Springbok side that beat Eng- arm-wrestle and when we have All Blacks on home soil in 1995 change to their starting XV. his native Australia when Eng- land in the 2007 World Cup fi nal the opportunities to break the before beating England 12 years land beat the Wallabies in the in Paris. game up, we are then confi dent later in France. ENGLAND SQUAD 2003 World Cup fi nal. “We know the physical part of and composed enough to take This will be England’s fourth Elliot Daly; Anthony Watson, PREVIEW While England played plen- the game is going to be impor- them,” explained Jones, whose World Cup fi nal, with the Red , Owen Farrell ty of attacking rugby in both tant and the players will go into 80% win rate is the best of any Rose brigade losing to Austral- (capt), Jonny May; George Ford, the 44-16 win over Australia this game well prepared know- England coach. ia at Twickenham in the 1991 ; Billy Vunipola, Sam and against New Zealand, the ing how we want to play. Every team that has won the showpiece match. Underhill, Tom Curry; Courtney Farewell to Hansen, Springboks ground their way to “We will go and play with World Cup has done so unbeat- England have won their last Lawes, Maro Itoje; Kyle Sinckler, knockout wins over Japan (26-3) no fear,” added Jones, who will en, with England yet to lose a two Tests against South Africa, Jamie George, Mako Vunipola and Wales (16-13). become only the third England match at Japan. edging out the Springboks 12- Replacements: Luke Cowan- Gatland in dreaded coach to be in charge for 50 Tests South Africa, by contrast, lost 11 when the teams last met at Dickie, Joe Marler, , ‘PLAY WITH NO FEAR’ tomorrow. to New Zealand in their opening Twickenham in November 2018. George Kruis, Mark Wilson, Ben “South Africa are a diffi cult “South Africa will prob- pool match. South Africa announced their Spencer, Henry Slade, Jonathan WC play-off opponent and we are going to ably play a similar type of game The Springboks, however, team for the fi nal earlier yester- Joseph

SPOTLIGHT George wants to follow England cricketers’ WC-winning lead AFP thinking about the big picture.” Tokyo George has known another Steve Hansen (left) and Warren Gatland. (AFP) England cricketer, Sam Billings since their schooldays and has AFP could throw the ball around. “I ngland hooker Jamie been in contact with him during Tokyo think there is a lot on it. For them George said the way the the Rugby World Cup. it would be like winning the World country’s cricketers per- Billings has been named Eng- Cup if they win this one, maybe.” formed under pressure to land limited overs cricket captain ighly respected Kiwi Hansen will bow out as New Ewin a dramatic World Cup fi nal is Eoin Morgan’s deputy for the coaches Steve Hansen Zealand coach after 107 matches a lesson their coun- fi ve-match series in and Warren Gatland will in charge, with only 10 defeats to terparts can learn from when New Zealand — with England’s bow out of international date. they face South Africa in tomor- rugby players infl icting fresh rugbyH after today’s third-place His successes include the 2015 row’s showpiece match. World Cup heartache on the play-off , a game the latter joked World Cup, six Rugby Champion- The England men’s cricket country by beating the All Blacks could have been settled by a drink- ships and a perfect eight from eight team won its fi rst 50-over tro- in the semi-fi nals of Japan 2019. ing game. in the Bledisloe Cup, the annual phy by beating New Zealand on “The video came out of us The semi-fi nals saw Hansen’s series against Australia. countback at Lord’s watching their World Cup fi nal All Blacks lose 19-7 to England in July but only after a thrilling and, chatting to him (Billings), while Gatland’s Wales went down ‘LEAVE A LEGACY’ last-ball fi nish to a ‘Super Over’ they will probably be sat around 19-16 to South Africa, plung- “I don’t want to go into what I’m that required precision fi elding to watching ours as well,” added ing them into the dreaded bronze going to miss,” said Hansen, who deny the Black Caps what would George. medal match. was coach of Wales the last time have been a winning run. “It’s quite a cool thought.” “I think Steve Tew (New Zea- the teams faced each other at the George is a friend of Jason Roy Both the England men’s crick- land Rugby Union chief executive) World Cup, in 2003. whose inch-perfect throw al- et and rugby union teams suf- made a joke to Martyn Phillips Gatland said that what Hansen lowed wicket-keeper Jos Buttler fered embarrassing fi rst-round (Welsh Rugby Union chief execu- had achieved with New Zealand to complete the decisive run out. exits during their respective 2015 tive) that both teams should have a was “absolutely outstanding”. And he believes his side will World Cups. But they have each boat race and we could settle it that “There is no doubt he’ll leave a also need to be at their best when enjoyed revivals under Australian way,” Gatland joked in reference to legacy behind in terms of what he’s the tension is at its highest if coaches, with Eddie Jones — the a speed-drinking game. achieved as an All Black coach,” he they are to beat the Springboks Wallabies’ boss when England “I can see the relevance in that.” said. in Yokohama on and seal a sec- beat them in the fi nal 16 years Both sides have rung the chang- “Very much like me, he started ond Rugby World Cup triumph ago — looking to follow Trevor es for today’s encounter, Hansen in Wales and learned a lot and I’ve for England following their 2003 Bayliss as a World Cup winner in aiming a cheeky dig at Wales when learned a lot, too, from my time as success. 2019. he said the play-off would be like a an international coach... there is “Fine margins isn’t it?,” George “I’ve spoken to Eoin Morgan a fi nal for the Six Nations champi- no doubt Steve has left a massive told reporters at England’s hotel England’s hooker Jamie George takes part in a training session at Fuchu Asahi Football Park in Tokyo few times about the culture and ons. impression on New Zealand rugby in Tokyo. on Wednesday. (AFP) also the mindset of the team go- “This is the fi rst time I’ve had to and he’ll be a big loss.” “A big thing that I have thought ing into their fi nal,” said George. do this,” said Hansen, with the All Gatland, who made nine chang- about is your ability to perform over and the last run out — Jason it under that pressure, knowing job under pressure. I read a bit “They had been through a bit Blacks having won 31 of their 34 es to his side, took over Wales in your skill under the highest pres- Roy’s throw — he had to pick the that he needs to get it there in with Jason Roy saying all he could more of a rollercoaster ride than meetings with Wales, last losing in late 2007, going on to win four Six sure,” the British and Irish Lions ball up fi rst, the ball is coming that moment... Jos Buttler taking think about was getting the ball we have in this tournament but 1953. Nations Championships and also international added. to him at speed, he’s done it a the stumps. into his hands. He was thinking there are certain similarities over “A lot of people might be say- reaching the semi-fi nals of the “If you think back to that super thousand times before but doing “Things like that. Doing your about the process rather than the last two seasons or so.” ing there’s not a lot on it and they 2011 World Cup. Gulf Times Friday, November 1, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA Nationals produce stunning comeback World Series crown The last time a Washington team won the World Series was 1924, when Calvin Coolidge was US President Nationals pitcher Strasburg named World Series MVP Reuters “And I think everything hap- Houston, United States pens for a reason. I think I’ve really just become a stronger pitcher through all the adversi- ashington Nation- ty that I’ve had to go through.” als starting pitcher The No. 1 overall pick in the WStephen Strasburg 2009 draft, Strasburg’s rookie was named the Most Valuable season ended due to elbow Player of the World Series on surgery. Wednesday after helping his In 2012, as a precautionary team capture their maiden move to prevent a recurrence Major League Baseball cham- of his elbow injury, the Nation- pionship. als decided to limit the number Strasburg earned wins in each of innings he pitched, shut- of his two World Series starts ting him down ahead of the versus the Houston Astros postseason. during which he gave up a He watched from the sidelines combined four runs over 14-1/3 as the Nationals lost the NLDS innings. He won five of his six to St Louis. appearances in the postseason Strasburg said he tries not to and did not suff er a defeat. think about the “what ifs?” The World Series title and MVP And after a season in which he award tasted all the sweeter earned career highs in wins to the 31-year-old right-hander (18) and strikeouts (251) before after the injury troubles he has becoming the first pitcher to endured over the years. go 5-0 in a postseason, there is “Through all the adversity I little point in doing so. think I’ve learned a lot about “I think I’ve really learned that myself,” Strasburg told report- if I focus on the things that I ers. “When you have the ups can control — the one thing and downs, I think you can that you can control is your learn just as much from the approach and how you handle downs as you can the ups. your business,” he said.

There was hefty praise as well His zone control is tremendous. Washington Nationals manager Dave Martinez and his team hoist the Commissioners Trophy after defeating the Houston Astros in game seven of the 2019 World Series at Minute for Max Scherzer, who won the His defense has been lights out. Maid Park in Houston, United States, on Wednesday. (USA TODAY Sports) opener in Houston and limited But how much fun does he look Houston to two runs over fi ve in- like he has playing? AFP Braves had a club been so far be- team won the World Series was The team had lost superstar has been with the club since its nings in the series fi nale just three “He’s under the radar. And yet Houston, United States low .500 and battled back to seize 1924, when Calvin Coolidge was Bryce Harper to Philadelphia for start in Washington. days after being unable to lift his he’s one of the most impressive the trophy, the Nats matching US President, the Roaring ’20s a 13-year deal worth $330mn. “So it all happened kind of fast. right arm due to neck spasms that superstars in our game. And I Houston’s 74 wins after May 24 were in full swing and Al Jol- Their past playoff heartbreaks Which, if you play at this level, kept him out of game fi ve. think on this national stage we’ve ritten off after a 19- for the most in baseball. son and George Gershwin were had devastated devoted fans. that’s kind of the expectations “Best free agent signing of all gotten to see it.” 31 start and given a But manager Dave Martinez chart-topping musicians — and In 2012 they took a 6-0 lead in you want. You want your fans time, what he’s done since he’s Rendon set a Nats record with .01% oddsmakers stressed going “1-0 today” and the Senators beat the New York the deciding game and were one to be disappointed if you don’t come here,” Zimmerman said of 126 runs batted in this season and chance to win the seeing what happened from Giants in a dramatic game seven. out from victory but gave up four make the playoff s. But it all hap- Scherzer. “He’s a special guy and scored 117 runs while .319. WWorld Series, the Washington there. The results proved his- Two Senators teams moved runs in the ninth to lose to St. pened very fast.” special teammate. Nats outfi elder Juan Soto, who Nationals ignored the doubters toric. away. The city went 33 years Louis. Stephen Strasburg, the World turned 21 last week, hit fi ve hom- and captured a fairy-tale cham- “What a weird year,” Wash- without a club. They blew a two-game lead Series Most Valuable Player, re- SKY’S LIMIT FOR SOTO ers and made critical plays to pionship. ington’s Ryan Zimmerman said. Even after the Nationals fought to fall in 2016 to the Los Angeles called Zimmerman handing him Anthony Rendon, a Houston na- spark the club in key moments. The Nationals rallied to defeat “What a weird team. We just into the playoff s in the last week Dodgers and squandered a 4-1 his fi rst Nats jersey as a rookie. tive, drove in eight runs in the “Juan has kind of been do- Houston 6-2 on Wednesday to kept going, man. Could’ve quit. of the season, there were plenty lead in the fi nal game against the “He has been here from day World Series and his home run in ing this literally since the day capture Major League Baseball’s Could’ve rolled over. But this of doubters. Chicago Cubs in 2017. one. I’m so happy for him,” Stras- the seventh began the Nats fi ght- he came up,” Zimmerman said. best-of-seven fi nal 4-3 in a re- group of guys, we bounce back. They hadn’t won a playoff se- “All of a sudden if you don’t get burg said. “He’s the face of the back in the decider. “And the scary thing is he’s only versal of fortune unseen in more It’s almost fi tting that we won ries since 1981 when they were past the fi rst round of the play- franchise. For us to come through “He’s such a good player,” As- going to get better with the more than a . this way.” the Montreal Expos, moving to off s, you’re a huge disappoint- as a group it’s a big moment for tros manager A.J. Hinch said. experience. The sky’s the limit Not since the 1914 Boston The last time a Washington the US capital in 2005. ment,” said Zimmerman, who him.” “Like his swing is nearly fl awless. for him.”

FEATURE Not even a fairytale World Series fi nish could conceal baseball’s warts

By Gabriel Baumgaertner Houston assistant general man- general public, but it confi rmed may have distracted from the The Guardian ager Brandon Taubman shouted the suspicions of Houston’s drama that surrounded it. An “I’m so f****** glad we got competitors: this was not an umpiring controversy in Game Osuna!” at three female report- innovative underdog that built 6 thankfully didn’t swing the n the ninth inning of the ers, one of whom was wearing an empire; instead, the Astros outcome (though it did lead to Washington Nationals’ a purple domestic violence were a ruthless and arrogant the rare ejection of a manager, Game 7 win over the Hou- awareness bracelet. That was front offi ce whose addiction to Washington’s Dave Martinez), ston Astros on Wednesday in reference to pitcher Roberto winning triggered an avoidable but showed that even baseball’s Inight, Fox colour commentator Osuna, a player who served a and embarrassing scandal. highly structured and exacting John Smoltz quipped that the 75-game suspension while a The controversy of the Taub- rule book is subject to the replay 2019 World Series was “the series member of the Toronto Blue Jays man aff air quieted after Game review and technical interpreta- of the unexpected”. For the fi rst after violating the league policy 3, but even the negative press tions that infuriate viewers in time in any major North Ameri- for domestic assault. (Osuna didn’t boost lagging ratings. football, soccer and basketball. can sport, the visiting team won allegedly assaulted the mother of Through fi ve games, the series The gaudy home run celebra- all seven games of a best-of-sev- his three-year-old child, but the was on track to be the lowest- tions of Houston’s Alex Bregman en playoff series. Wednesday’s charges were dropped after she rated in history (11.59mn aver- and Washington’s Juan Soto series fi nale marked the Nation- returned to Mexico and declined age viewers compared to the invited mindless, overwrought als’ record fi fth comeback win in to testify.) 12.34mn in 2012, the current conversations about baseball’s a potential elimination game in After declining to respond low). Viewership increased in unwritten rules of profession- the postseason. It was thrilling to Apstein, the Astros pub- each game and peaked at 15.31mn alism while the lead swings in stuff on paper, yet Major League licly stated that the story was in Game 6 and likely increased both Games 6 and 7 provided the Baseball has battled a host of bad fabricated. Multiple reporters for Wednesday night’s Game kind of entertainment that MLB press and unwanted storylines confi rmed Apstein’s account of 7. The gains were encouraging, hoped for from the outset. By throughout the series. the events and the team issued but – as is par for the course the series’ conclusion, fans will The fi rst fi ve games were subsequent statements, none of – Sunday night’s NFL game be- likely remember the vigour of the mostly dreary, lopsided aff airs which apologised to Apstein and tween the Green Bay Packers and 21-year-old Soto, the unfl appa- lacking the tense and unpredict- instead focused on the organisa- Kansas City Chiefs still dwarfed ble pitching of World Series MVP able moments that draw casual tion’s dedication to domestic Game 5, the highest viewed game Stephen Strasburg and the joy of sports fans toward baseball, a violence awareness. Those of- at that point in the series, by a Nationals team that couldn’t sport failing to keep pace with ferings didn’t quiet the public’s roughly six million viewers ac- win a playoff series until this the immense popularity of the distaste for a malicious attempt cording to Nielsen. year despite four postseason NFL and NBA. Instead of the to smear a reporter, and the Game 5 also featured Don- appearances from 2012 through game action, the storylines per- team eventually apologised and ald Trump being aggressively 2018. meating the World Series media retracted the original statement booed by the home crowd in DC, With a wealth of marketable cycle involved insensitivity to after a tone-deaf press confer- launching a discussion about young talent – Soto, Bregman and domestic violence, the appropri- ence from general manager Jeff public civility instead of Hou- Carlos Correa are all 25 or younger ateness of booing the President Luhnow and a letter from owner ston’s comeback from 2-0 down – and a game increasingly driven of the United States and sluggish Jim Crane. to lead the series 3-2. Surpris- by power and athleticism, baseball pace of play that hindered televi- The Nationals’ improbable ingly, Trump did not tweet about still remains behind football and sion ratings. victory may have relieved com- the poor welcome in the nation’s basketball in its American and The Nationals may not have missioner Rob Manfred, who capital, but the moment spilled worldwide appeal. Some of the saved baseball from the distrac- handed the championship tro- from sports channels into the drama that surrounded the series tions that revealed the unseemly phy to maybe the most likeable Houston Astros pitcher Zack Greinke (second from right) is relieved by manager AJ Hinch against the cable news airwaves. Again, the was avoidable (Taubman), some of truths facing the sport, but team of the postseason instead of Washington Nationals during the seventh inning in game seven of the 2019 World Series at Minute Maid action on the fi eld was forgotten it will require structural fi xes (pace their victory over one of the the one whose owner and general Park in Houston, United States, on Wednesday. (USA TODAY Sports) by a sideshow. Perhaps it was the of play). best teams in baseball history manager caused the titanic pub- running time of every game – six The series ended in a way for off ered a respite from a glut of lic relations crisis that distracted They also feature some of the starting pitchers in baseball’s It wasn’t until the postseason of the seven ran over three-and- so many to enjoy, but the issues unwanted press that dominated from the sport’s marquee event. brightest talents in the sport. annals, and the team dominated that the team’s cutting-edge a-half hours after starting at harming the sport’s popularity the playoff s. Between the lines, the Astros Second baseman Jose Altuve virtually every off ensive category and calculating front offi ce 8.08pm on the east coast – that were evident. Games 6 and 7 For the fi rst three games, are a nearly perfect baseball became just the seventh player throughout the season. To wit- proved the dangers of an in- invited the distraction. were the kinds of viewing expe- the public focused on a fi asco team. They became only the in history to hit a walk-off home ness Houston play baseball is creasingly pervasive mentality To echo Smoltz, maybe it was riences that may turn casual fans involving the Astros and Sports sixth team in major league his- run to clinch a pennant, starting to watch an evolution in power across baseball that winning the unlikely path of the fi nal into devoted ones, but they may Illustrated reporter Stephanie tory to fi nish with more than 100 pitcher Gerrit Cole compiled one pitching, deft game management solves everything. The Taubman two games that helped save think twice if they stomached Apstein. Apstein reported that wins a third consecutive seasons. of the most brilliant runs of any and execution. scandal may have shocked the the series. At the very least, it the fi rst fi ve. Gulf Times 6 Friday, November 1, 2019 SPORT

NBA MOTOGP Champ Marquez seeks to seal Triple Harden explodes Crown in Malaysia

AFP winning, not topping Lorenzo’s Sepang, Malaysia points record: “I’ll keep the same strategy, target to try fi nish on the podium but of course today orld champion Marc my target is to win. for 59 points in Marquez will seek to “My opponents will give an cap a stellar season answer whether that will be pos- at this weekend’s sible over the weekend.” WMalaysian MotoGP by winning With the Spaniard so domi- the team title to seal the Triple nant, Italy’s Dovizioso conceded Crown for Repsol Honda. the champion’s rivals were fo- The 26-year-old Spaniard cused on “thinking about how we clinched his sixth rider’s title can stop Marc. This season (he’s) Rockets’ victory in Thailand this month and has even better than in the past”. sealed the constructors’ champi- Marquez triumphed at last ‘I work hard every single day. I fall in love with it, mastering the game’ onship for Honda. week’s Australian MotoGP, his Now the Repsol Honda outfi t fi fth win in a row and 11th this — Marquez and teammate Jorge season, which saw fellow Span- Lorenzo — sit just behind Ducati iard Maverick Vinales crash out in the race for the team title, as on the last lap. Marquez aims for his second The Monster Energy Yamaha consecutive win at the challeng- rider had dominated all weekend ing Sepang circuit. at Phillip Island and was leading He also needs to score just nine for much of the race until Mar- points in Malaysia — a seventh- quez darted past in the dying placed fi nish or above — to top stages. three-time world champion Racing in tropical Malaysia is Lorenzo’s highest ever tally of particularly challenging due to 383 across 18 races. the heat and humidity, with con- But victory may be tough ditions often changing rapidly against Ducati’s Andrea Dovizio- from bright sunshine to intense so, who has already been con- downpours. fi rmed as this year’s runner-up At last year’s MotoGP, qualify- in motorcycling’s premier class, ing was delayed due to rain and and was the winner at Sepang in organisers then brought forward 2016 and 2017. the start of the main race by two Marquez insisted he was not hours to avoid a potential down- going to ease off even after his pour. stellar season. In the Moto2 class, Marc Mar- “Not it’s time to keep going.... quez’s younger brother, Alex fi ght again for another victory,” Marquez, sits atop the leader- he told reporters at a pre-race board and will be seeking to seal press conference yesterday. the world title in Malaysia after He also said he was focused on missing out in Australia.

Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) shoots the ball as Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) looks on in the first quarter of their NBA game on Wednesday. PICTURE: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

AFP by a single point. It was just the Japan’s ambassador to the pers boiled over in the melee that That’s all it was,” Towns said. Marc Marquez smiles during a press conference yesterday. Los Angeles third game in the past 25 years in United States, Shinsuke Sugiya- ignited under the basket with Embiid and Towns have a his- which each team scored at least ma, attended the game to watch the Sixers leading 75-55 halfway tory of talking trash on the court 150 points. Hachimura, who was selected through the third. and through social media and Warriors’ Curry breaks left hand in fall ames Harden made the The previous record for com- ninth overall by the Wizards in the “You gotta come in here, you that continued after the contest. winning free throw with bined points in a game decided by 2019 entry draft. gotta fi ght, you gotta play hard, Embiid tweeted later that Washington: Golden State has moved to the Brooklyn two seconds left, capping just a single point was 311 between This season marks a reunion of you gotta be gritty, you gotta be a Towns’ mother gave him a one- Warriors guard Stephen Curry Nets, and Klay Thompson, out a 59-point performance the Chicago and Portland sorts for Westbrook and Harden. Broad Street Bully,” he added in a fi nger salute as he was being es- suff ered a broken left hand indefinitely as he recovers asJ the Houston Rockets out- Trail Blazers in 1984. They spent three seasons to- reference to Philadelphia’s rough corted out of the arena and into on Wednesday, the NBA team from a torn knee ligament. gunned the Washington Wizards Russell Westbrook overcame a gether with Oklahoma City until and tumble championship NHL the tunnel under the seats. announced, marking the latest “It’s obviously been a tough 159-158 in one of the highest slow start to fi nish with his sec- Harden left in 2012 to join the team from the 1970s. “Great team win!!! I was raised setback in a tough start to the start for us on many levels, so scoring games in NBA history. ond triple double of the season Rockets. After they exchanged words, around lions and a cat pulled new season for the franchise. just trying to find our footing Harden shot 18-of-32 from with 17 points, 12 assists and 10 Elsewhere, Joel Embiid scored the two big men wrestled each on me tonight.... I got his mom The two-times NBA Most and obviously this puts us in a the fi eld, made all but one of rebounds. Clint Capela tallied 21 19 points before being ejected other to the ground as teammates giving me middle fi ngers. That’s Valuable Player was injured tough spot,” head coach Steve his 18 free throws, and drained for the Rockets, who improved to because of a third quarter fi ght as and coaches, including 76ers some SERIOUS REAL ESTATE,” when he landed heavily while Kerr told reporters. six three pointers as the Rockets 3-1 on the season. Beal tied the the Philadelphia 76ers won their head coach Brett Brown, charged Embiid wrote on Twitter. driving to the basket during “We’ll meet tomorrow as a staff overcame a 46-point night from contest 158-158 with eight sec- fourth straight game to start the into the fray to try and separate The victory leaves the 76ers as the third quarter of the team’s and watch film with the team Bradley Beal. onds remaining by making his free season by beating the Minnesota the combatants. At one point one of two unbeaten NBA teams 121-110 home defeat by the and will discuss all that stuff ... “I work hard every single day. I throws, but the Wizards couldn’t Timberwolves 117-95. Sixers Ben Simmons put a choke along with the 3-0 San Antonio Phoenix Suns. We’ll assess it and go from fall in love with it, mastering the tack on any more and dropped to Embiid was sent to the show- hold on Towns, who ended up at Spurs. The Timberwolves suf- X-rays confirmed the break but there.” game,” Harden said. “You can’t 1-3 on the season. ers along with Minnesota’s Karl- the bottom of the pile. fered their fi rst loss falling to 3-1. there was no immediate word Curry, 31, was the seventh expect to be great if you don’t put “I didn’t know we were going to Anthony Towns after the two got Embiid and Towns were eject- Andrew Wiggins scored 19 of how long he might be out overall pick in the 2009 draft the work in. have to score about 160 points to into a tussle that also included ed. Embiid walked over to the points and Towns fi nished with of action. and has played his entire “You might be doing every- win, but whatever it takes it took,” players and some coaches on sidelines and jokingly shadow- 13 points for the Timberwolves. Curry’s injury came as the decade-long career with the thing right and things don’t al- Houston coach Mike D’Antoni Wednesday. boxed in front of the Sixers bench Also, Kemba Walker delivered Warriors fell to 1-3 early in the Warriors. ways work out your way. You got said. “I was built for this city,” before being escorted to the lock- his second straight 32 point per- new season. He has been the face of the to keep pushing.” Rui Hachimura, the highest said Embiid, adding he didn’t er room. formance as the new-look Bos- The 2015, 2017 and 2018 NBA franchise, leading the team The teams combined to score drafted Japanese-born player in throw any punches so he felt he Towns declined to talk about ton Celtics rallied from a huge champions are struggling to from the cellar to five straight 317 points, the most ever in an NBA history, scored 23 points and shouldn’t be suspended. the dust-up after the game. fi rst half defi cit to beat the Mil- replace Kevin Durant, who NBA Finals. NBA game which was decided Davis Bertans had 21. No one was injured but tem- “It was a competitive game. waukee Bucks 116-105.

FORMULA 1 Hamilton almost certain to seal title in Texas AFP It is a scenario that requires known driver in the country by do so,” said Ferrari team chief Austin the Finn, whose previous best a distance. Mattia Binotto. fi nish in Texas is fi fth, to win “I think my story, and my After a recent revival in all three season-ending races, family story, is something a lot form, Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel ewis Hamilton is set to at the very least, with Hamil- of people can relate to,” said will seek to show he remains clinch his sixth drivers’ ton out of the points. Hamilton, who often declares worthy of top status at the world championship Given that Hamilton has his sense affi nity with many in Italian team while Red Bull’s at one of his favour- scored in his last 30 consecu- America. “I’ve become more rumbustious Max Verstap- Lite venues this weekend when tive outings and needs only and more known in the States. pen, making his 100th Grand he leads Mercedes into what four points to retain his crown, “I like being in the States Prix start, will hope for a less promises to be a close scrap Bottas’s hopes are some way and, for me, it is a pretty calm controversial weekend than with Ferrari at the United beyond slim, but he can be re- build-up. And the track at his last. States Grand Prix. lied upon never to give up. Austin is fantastic — it’s been The Dutchman was stripped Just days after his unexpect- Both Mercedes men have a good hunting ground for me of pole position in Mexico and, ed, but perfectly-conceived, targets, not least Hamilton for and so I am very excited to go in the race, banged wheels strategic victory in Mexico, the whom a place in the top eight there and, who knows, see with Hamilton, picked up a 34-year-old Briton is in the would be enough for the title. whether we can get the job puncture in a clash with Bottas luxurious position of knowing He may be keen also to reg- done.” and stormed from last to fi nish that only a wildly-extraordi- ister something better as he Ironically, Hamilton can sixth in the race. nary result at the Circuit of seeks another Texas triumph, take the title without scor- Vettel fi nished second and the Americas can frustrate him his sixth in eight outings in ing a point if rivals Ferrari can demonstrated his maturity again. Austin and his seventh win in translate their speed in quali- afterwards when he side- His only title rival, Mercedes the American event and, at the fying into a race victory. stepped invitations to say he team-mate Valtteri Bottas, has very least, his 150th podium “We have started the past felt jealous or envious of Ham- to overcome a 74-point defi cit fi nish. six races from pole, but have ilton’s feats, instead choosing in the fi nal three rounds of the A frequent visitor to the only gone on to win three — to praise his long-time rival. championship to create what United States, Hamilton is a and we certainly want to do “I appreciate his eff orts, his would be the biggest upset in regular guest on television better than that. Austin will performances, his success a the sport’s history. chat shows and is F1’s best- give us a good opportunity to lot,” said Vettel. Gulf Times Friday, November 1, 2019 7 SPORT

GOLF FOCUS Oman, Scotland complete next year’s China’s Li leads T20 WC lineup

Reuters collapse to pip Hong Kong by Dubai 12 runs and will meet Scotland in the 5th/6th place play-off match later on Thursday. cotland and Oman reg- The four semi-fi nalists — Shanghai WGC to istered contrasting vic- Papua New Guinea, Ireland, tories in the qualifi ers Netherlands and Namibia — to claim the last two have already qualifi ed from Sberths and complete the line- this tournament for the 16- up for next year’s Twenty20 team World Cup scheduled to World Cup in Australia. begin on Oct. 18. George Munsey struck 65, The six teams will join Sri his second fi fty of the qualify- Lanka and Bangladesh in the fuel home hopes ing tournament, as Scotland fi rst round for a round robin spanked hosts United Arab competition with the top four It was Li’s best performance yet after 24 previous rounds in Asia’s premier golf event Emirates by 90 runs to secure advancing to the Super 12 their second successive, and stage. fourth overall, appearance in Based on offi cial rankings as the Twenty20 World Cup. on Dec. 31, 2018, hosts Aus- “It has not gone our way tralia and other top nine teams this tournament, but it is great — Pakistan, India, England, to play so well in a must-win South Africa, New Zealand, game,” Munsey said after West Indies, Afghanistan, Sri Wednesday’s victory which Lanka and Bangladesh — qual- came as a relief for the top ifi ed directly. seeds who fi nished fourth in West Indies will defend the their group. title they won beating England Oman survived a batting in the 2016 fi nal in Kolkata.

Morgan to decide future aft er T20 World Cup in Australia

China’s Li Haotong tees off during the WGC-HSBC Champions in Shanghai yesterday. (AFP)

England’s limited-overs captain players at the moment. I feel very AFP premier golf event, which off ers a Li, 24, became the fi rst Chinese that vision has been slow to mate- said this week his sights were set on Eoin Morgan will take a call on his lucky to lead that group and I Shanghai big purse and attracts a high-pow- male golfer to break into the world rialise — at least in the men’s game. regaining the world’s top ranking future after next year’s Twenty20 think we can do something even ered fi eld. top 50 a year ago, and is seeking his But Li heads a cadre of emerging that he held four years ago, possibly World Cup in Australia, the more special down the line.” Li, known as much for his quick fi rst PGA Tour win. young golfers providing new hope, next year, but it didn’t go well for 33-year-old said. England have rested Ben Stokes, last-minute switch back smile as for a fast-improving game, “Obviously it would be great joy and a win in east Asia’s biggest him early. Morgan led England to their Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler and to his old clubs helped has emerged as China’s best hope for Chinese golfers and golf fans to event would be a major step for- His front nine was marred by maiden ODI World Cup victory in Jason Roy for the Twenty20 series China’s Li Haotong fi nd for a long-awaited break into the have a Chinese player winning a ward. Reigning champ Schauff ele three bogeys as he struggled to gain July on home soil but has battled against a side they edged out on his groove and delight top ranks of the men’s game, and he WGC-HSBC Champions here in looked potent as well, despite suf- momentum, but a quintet of bird- back injuries in recent years. boundary count in the final of the aA home crowd by charging to the looked it in Shanghai. China, but for the next three days, fering from bad fl u. ies down the stretch kept him well “I won’t say I’ll be finished after ODI World Cup at Lord’s. England fi rst-round lead in the WGC-HS- Playing alongside one of his anything could happen,” he said The American led the fi eld in within contention. the next World Cup as I’d be have included five uncapped BC Championships in Shanghai idols, Phil Mickelson, the world afterwards. birdies on Thursday with nine for a The event features 15 past Ma- afraid I’ll only creep over the players in their Twenty20 mix yesterday. number 59 didn’t drop a shot on Li switched back to an older set six-under-par 66. jor winners including Justin Rose, line and maybe fall off ,” Morgan though Morgan felt it may not be China’s highest-ranked male his front nine and cruised home to a of clubs just before the tourna- “Maybe I should just keep my Bubba Watson, Sergio Garcia and told reporters on the eve of the easy for them to break into the golfer and its fi rst-ever President’s one-shot lead at Sheshan Interna- ment after failing to gel with some fl u going and if I can rattle off a 66 Jordan Spieth, but top-ranked five-match Twenty20 series World Cup squad. “There aren’t Cup selection, Li’s eight-under- tional Golf Club. new irons. “I (didn’t) feel good with every day, I think that would be Brooks Koepka and a resurgent Ti- against New Zealand. “I don’t a lot of places up for grabs in our par 64 also made him the fi rst Chi- A posse of golfers includ- my new irons, and I actually had to enough,” Schauff ele said. ger Woods skipped it. want to let anyone down. I want best XI and probably our final 15 nese player to hold a lead after any ing former Masters champion change back to my old clubs this “I think a couple more nights of The WGC-HSBC Champi- to drive through the World Cup for 12 months down the line. round in a World Golf Champion- Adam Scott of Australia and last week to feel more comfortable in sleep, I’ll be in better shape. But it ons has a purse of $10.25mn, with in Australia and then make a call “But we’re not only building for ships event. year’s winner in Shanghai, Xander my own swing and putting,” said Li. was a dream start with what things $1.7mn going to the winner, and is after that. 12 months down the line but the It was Li’s best performance yet Schauff ele, were two strokes back China has long been viewed as were looking like.” the third and fi nal leg of the PGA “We have a special group of following World Cup as well.” after 24 previous rounds in Asia’s of Li. the next frontier for golf talent, but World number two Rory McIlroy Tour’s Asian swing.

CRICKET Sangakkara to lead MCC against Essex Sri Lankan cricket legend Kumar Rohit content with sporadic captaincy honour Sangakkara, the first overseas president of the Marylebone Reuters of leading India. Cricket Club, will captain the MCC New Delhi “I got this opportunity to lead against English county champions the team, and it’s a great honour. Essex in Sri Lanka next March, it I have captained team in the past was announced yesterday. aptaining India is such an and it was a good experience. The 42-year-old batting great honour for Rohit Sharma “I never think ‘why did they — whose 15 year international that he would not fuss make me captain for just one se- career encompassed 134 Test whether it’s full time or ries or two series. Why not for a appearances and over 400 one sporadic,C the stylish opener said full year?’ day internationals — will lead out yesterday. “I don’t think or even talk his side in the English domestic Virat Kohli leads India across about these things. Whenever I season’s traditional curtain- formats but former players in- get these opportunities, I happily raiser at the Galle International cluding Yuvraj Singh see merit shoulder the responsibility and Stadium from March 24-27. The in split captaincy with limited- try to set an example.” clash between the MCC and the overs stalwart Rohit as the white- The 32-year-old Mumbai champions dates back to 1970 ball leader. player has revived his stop-start and has been played abroad since Rohit captained India to Asia long-format career by reinvent- 2011 — the last edition in Dubai Cup victory last year and, with ing himself as a test opener in the suff ered from that most English of Kohli resting, will lead the side 3-0 rout of South Africa earlier interruptions... rain. again in the three-match Twen- this month. Sri Lanka has been selected for ty20 series against Bangladesh Rohit, who was adjudged man several reasons: the MCC’s World starting in New Delhi on Sunday. of the series after fi nishing as Cricket committee will meet there Rohit has also polished his the top scorer, will face a new in March, and the match is timed leadership credentials by leading challenge in the two-test se- to coincide with England’s World Mumbai Indians to four Indian ries against Bangladesh, which Test Championship matches in the Premier League titles but was not will include a day-night test in country. Sangakkara, who became too hung up on permanent cap- Kolkata. “It will be very exciting, MCC President on October 1, taincy in the shorter formats. it being our fi rst test in pink ball,” said the game would be of huge “Look, these are beyond our he said. benefit to the sport in Sri Lanka. controls,” Rohit, the only bats- “I can’t talk about others but “It is hugely important to support man with three 200-plus scores I played a Duleep Trophy match cricket in countries such as Sri in one-day internationals, told with pink balls and it was a good Lanka and taking the Champion reporters yesterday. experience. County match to Galle is a “Captaining India is a massive “We have been waiting to play a fantastic way for the Club to honour, be it for one match, 10 test with pink balls and fi nally the File photo of India’s Rohit Sharma. (Reuters) provide its backing for the game matches or 100 matches. When opportunity is here. We will try to on a global level,” he said in a we were younger, the dream we do well and get all 60 points (un- statement. AFP had was of playing for India, not der World Test Championship).”

Friday, November 1, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

HORSE RACING TENNIS / WTA FINALS Barty, Bencic in semis in Shenzhen Kobeissi’s Ateej AFP Shenzhen, China

orld number one Ashleigh Barty and Belinda Bencic both advanced to wins feature in Wthe semi-fi nals after contrast- ing victories at the WTA Finals in China yesterday. Barty progressed from the round-robin stage with a crush- ing 6-4, 6-2 win over Petra Kvi- tova in one hour and 28 minutes at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Cen- thrilling duel tre. Bencic prevailed 7-5, 1-0 in 61 minutes after late replace- ment Kiki Bertens retired ill. Hadi Nasser al-Ramzani and Jassim Mohamed Ghazali saddled three winners each Bertens received medical at- Group match between Wimble- tention after the opening game don champion Simona Halep and of the second set, where her world number two Pliskova blood pressure and pulse were “I’m particularly happy with checked, before becoming the the way I was able to return to- second player in the tournament night,” Barty said. “I think she to retire mid-match after Bianca was trying to take a little bit more Andreescu withdrew against of a risk. That kind of worked in Karolina Pliskova on Wednesday. my favour a bit.” “I didn’t feel well on court,” Kvitova had a scare in the third Bertens told reporters. “I had game of the fi rst set but saved some problems with my stom- two break points to hold her ach. The energy was not there. (I serve, which was being targeted felt) a little bit dizzy.” by an aggressive Barty. The Dutchwoman had started But the Australian’s consist- well with her meaty ground- ency wore down an error-strewn strokes overpowering Bencic but Kvitova and she grabbed a deci- she was unable to close out the sive break in the fi fth game. set on serve in the 10th game. Barty had break points against Bencic made her pay and broke her serve in the sixth and eighth again in the 12th game to snatch games but withstood Kvitova’s the fi rst set and shortly after attempts to get back into the fi rst registered her fi rst victory over set. Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) CEO Nasser Sherida al-Kaabi presents a memento to esteemed guests at the Al Rayyan Park yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim Bertens in an abbreviated fourth Kvitova, the oldest player in matchup between the pair. the draw, changed tactics early in By Sports Reporter World number eight Bencic the second set and attacked the Doha will play defending champion net but the French Open cham- Elina Svitolina in the semi-fi nal pion had the answers to reach the on Saturday. semi-fi nals on her WTA Finals or the fi rst time this sea- “I’m so relaxed already. I will debut. son, a Jassim Mohamed just play and fi ght like always,” For Kvitova, the 2011 WTA Fi- Ghazali horse had to set- she said. “She’s (Svitolina) one of nals champion, the loss marks tle for runner-up spot the players that this court suits a a second straight winless cam- inF a feature race with Ahmed lot more.” paign in her seventh appearance Kobeissi-trained Ateej winning Barty, who had already sealed at the lucrative year-ender. a thrilling duel in The Late Ra- the year-end No.1 ranking, re- “I just couldn’t fi nd rhythm,” biah Saad Al-Kaabi Cup at the bounded after a three-set loss to she said. “When it came to the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Bertens on Tuesday. She will play deciding points, she always Club’s (QREC) Al Rayyan Park the winner of tomorrow’s Purple played better than me.” yesterday. The business end in the mile- long turf feature for Arabians saw Ateej, ridden by Ryan Cu- Marriott Marquis Doha Golf Shootout ratolo in the colours of Dr Fa- Series commences had bin Abdullah al-Attiyah and son, locked in a thrilling duel The Marriott Marquis City with the Marriott Marquis ex- with Harry Bentley-helmed Centre Doha teed off the golf perience. The previous events Spaghetti. At the post, Curatolo Issa bin Saad al-Kaabi (right) presents the owner’s trophy to season at Education City Golf have followed the major golf and his partner edged out Bent- Abdurahman Fahad Abdullah al-Attiyah after Ateej won The Late Ryan Curatolo (left) rides Ateej to The Late Rabiah Saad Al-Kaabi Cup Club with the commencement tournaments such as the ley and his mount by a neck for a Rabiah Saad Al-Kaabi Cup yesterday. victory at the Al Rayyan Park yesterday. of the Shootout Golf Series. Masters and the Open and memorable victory. The tournament is the third we are excited with the new The victory was second on the the top spots when Lukasek rode fantastic ride in the Thorough- al-Seyabi). Won by: 2 ¼, 5 ½, 6. Jeryan Stud. Trainer: Hadi Nasser golf series in 2019 that has shootout series. By having the day for the Kobeissi-Curatolo American-bred Arabic Chan- bred Handicap event as the Time: 1:43.72. Owner: Jassim bin al-Ramzani. been supported by Marriott Par 3 Series we attract a mix of combine, having earlier guided nel to a comfortable two-length four-year-old made a winning Ali al-Attiyah. Trainer: Jassim Race 7: 1. Arabic Channel (Tomas Marquis, continuing through casual and competitive golfers Hassan Ali al-Abdulmalik’s victory in the seven-furlong debut in Qatar. Mohamed Ghazali. Lukasek), 2. Rex Place (Eduardo summer and proved popular each week.” Beach Samba to a Thoroughbred Thoroughbred Plate event for Race 4: 1. Beach Samba (Ryan Pedroza), 3. Venedegar (Carlos with the flood lights under the Education City Golf Club Handicap victory. three-year-olds. RESULTS Curatolo), 2. Geno (Gary Henrique), 4. Dark Pursuit (Luca cooler weather. general manager Michael Qatari trainer Hadi Nasser Eduardo Pedroza was in the Race 1: 1. Annab (Harry Bentley), Sanchez), 3. Al Hasnaa (Harry Maniezzi). Won by: 2, 2, Hd. Time: The tournaments take place Braidwood said, “We are proud al-Ramzani saddled a trio of Al saddle for another Al Jeryan Stud 2. Florin De Faust (Saleh Salem Bentley), 4. Poets Dream (Anas 1:22.56. Owner: Al Jeryan Stud. every Tuesday over the nine- to have the Marriott Brand Jeryan Stud winners on the day colt, Rex Place, who fi nished run- al-Marri), 3. Zalim CHM (Ryan Cu- al-Seyabi). Won by: 1 ¼, ¼, Hd. Trainer: Hadi Nasser al-Ramzani. hole par-three golf course and Supporting our regular golf with two of the horses ridden by ner-up while Henrique gave an ratolo), 4. Tahar (Gary Sanchez). Time: 1:22.90. Owner: Hassan Ali Race 8: 1. Black Granite (Harry will see an eight-week series tournaments at Education Tomas Lukasek. impressive ride to Venedegar on Won by: 5 ¾, ¼, 1 ¼. Time: 1:44.92. al-Abdulmalik. Trainer: Ahmed Bentley), 2. Hydroxide (Luca of events culminating in a final City Golf Club, each week we After Carlos Henrique rode his Qatar debut to fi nish third. Owner: Al Shahania Stud. Train- Kobeissi. Maniezzi), 3. Hajaam (Carlos shootout. The Top Five Order have a large turnout of golfers AJS Al Aredh to his maiden vic- While champion trainer er: Jassim Mohamed Ghazali. Race 5: 1. Pettifogger (Luca Henrique), 4. Itorio (Tomas of merit finishers from the pre- aiming to win some excellent tory, Lukasek was astride AJS Al Ghazali missed out on the fea- Race 2: 1. AJS Al Aredh (Carlos Maniezzi), 2. Shaheen (Anas Lukasek). Won by: 1 ½, 1, 1 ¼. vious three series and the Top prizes provided by the Marriott Maha in the Local Purebred Ara- ture, he did have three winners Henrique), 2. Hazm Al Sulaimi al-Seyabi), 3. Woodkid (Tomas Time: 1:22.51. Owner: Injaaz Five from the eight weeks will Marquis.” bian Handicap event when the including Injaaz Stud’s Black (JP Guillambert), 3. Nisal (Ali Lukasek), 4. Gangland (Harry Stud. Trainer: Jassim Mohamed go head-to-head in a shootout Along with the tournaments mare raced to her third career Granite in the Thoroughbred Khalid al-Mosallam), 4. Ka Al Bentley). Won by: 2, Shd, ¼. Time: Ghazali. to be crowned the Marriott Marriott Marquis Doha will be win, beating Umm Qarn’s Sea- Conditions event, Annab, who Khazaliah (Alexaner Reznikov). 1:35.02. Owner: Abdulhadi Mana Race 9: 1. Ateej (Ryan Curatolo), Marquis Champion of 2019. supporting the golf tourism line, who was left wanting having shed his maiden status in the Won by: Shd, 4, 4. Time: 1:32.08. al-Hajri. Trainer: Stefano Ibido. 2. Spaghetti (Harry Bentley), David Key, Cluster Sales and within Qatar by providing stay stepped up in distance to a mile fi rst race of the day under Bent- Owner: Al Jeryan Stud. Trainer: Race 6: 1. AJS Al Maha (Tomas 3. Meelad (Soufiane Saadi), 4. Marketing Director at Marriott and play packages to inbound and switching surfaces. Alban de ley, and Prince Amer, who reg- Hadi Nasser al-Ramzani. Lukasek), 2. Sealine (Soufiane Djelamer (Carlos Henrique). Won Marquis Doha, said, “The series travellers to Qatar. The aim is Mieulle-trained Sealine had been istered his third career win in a Race 3: 1. Prince Amer (Luca Saadi), 3. Ghazi Al Jeryan (Carlos by: Nk, 6, 1 3/4. Time: 1:44.49. has been an excellent way to to develop the leisure sector unbeaten in his fi rst two races — graduation event. Maniezzi), 2. Bin General Henrique), 4. AJS Al Moheeb Owner: Dr. Fahad bin Abdul- support the local community and grow the golf tourism sec- six-furlong sprints on dirt. Luca Maniezzi gave Stefano (Soufiane Saadi), 3. Melk (Harry (Harry Bentley). Won by: 1 ½, Nk, lah al-Attiyah and Son. Trainer: and provide a new audience tor in Qatar. But an al-Ramzani trio swept Ibido’s charge, Pettifogger, a Bentley), 4. Al Mirzem (Anas Dist. Time: 1:45.26. Owner: Al Ahmed Kobeissi.

TENNIS / PARIS MASTERS Djokovic sets up Tsitsipas clash as Dimitrov beats Thiem

AFP The 21-year-old Tsitsipas saving two set points to send number 78 heading into the US Paris, France leads his head-to-head with the opener to a tie-break. Open, but reached the semi- Djokovic 2-1, after victories at He then rallied from 6-3 fi nals and is now ranked 27th. the Shanghai Masters earlier down in the breaker to level The 28-year-old, who had ovak Djokovic saw this month and the 2018 Ca- at 7-7, saving four more set dispatched 12th seed David off Britain’s Kyle nadian Open. points as his powerful fore- Goffi n in round two, defended Edmund yesterday “He (Tsitsipas) is one of hand started to dominate, but brilliantly throughout as two- to reach his eighth the best players in the world,” Djokovic fi nally took it at the time French Open runner-up NParis Masters quarter-fi - said Djokovic. “He’s already seventh time of asking with a Thiem appeared to feel the nal, while Grigor Dimitrov (an) established player. winner up the line. eff ects of winning his home knocked out fi fth seed Do- “He’s (an) all-around play- Edmund’s resistance was title in Vienna last weekend. minic Thiem. er, plays very well on all sur- ended as Djokovic broke to Dimitrov will take on Cris- Top seed Djokovic, battling faces. He has great work ethic, love in the third game of the tian Garin for a semi-fi nal Rafael Nadal for the year- very dedicated. Let the better second set en route to a run of spot, after the unseeded Chil- end world number one spot, player win, I guess.” six straight games which se- ean saved three match points needed seven set points in the Djokovic is hoping to tie cured an ultimately comfort- in a deciding-set tie-break to fi rst set before winning 7-6 Pete Sampras’ record of fi n- able victory. end the run of French quali- (7), 6-1. ishing six years as the world’s fi er Jeremy Chardy. “I was feeling energy-wise best player, but Nadal can DIMITROV DOWNS THIEM The world number 42 better and felt more alert, be sure of denying the Ser- Former world number three claimed fi ve straight points to just more strength, more en- bian that achievement with a Dimitrov produced a fantastic close out victory, winning 6-7 ergy, more speed,” said the maiden Paris title this week. performance to beat fi fth seed (4), 6-4, 7-6 (6) to book his 32-year-old, who has been The Spaniard takes on Thiem 6-3, 6-2 and reach the maiden Masters quarter-fi nal. struggling with the fl u this three-time Grand Slam title- last eight in Paris for the fi rst Greek star Tsitsipas, who week. winner Stan Wawrinka in his time. has reached at least the semis The 16-time Grand Slam third-round match later on It will also be the Bulgar- in each of his last three tour- champion is chasing a record- Thursday. ian’s fi rst Masters quarter- naments, eased past De Mi- extending fi fth Bercy title and World number 75 Edmund, fi nal since the Canadian Open naur, ending the Australian’s will next face world number hoping to push for a place in last year as he continues his hopes of qualifying for next seven Stefanos Tsitsipas, who Britain’s Davis Cup squad, rise up the rankings. month’s ATP Tour Finals in Serbia’s Novak Djokovic returns the ball to Britain’s Kyle Edmund (not pictured) during their singles match on day four of beat Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-4. held his own in the fi rst set, Dimitrov was the world London. the Paris Masters yesterday. (AFP)