CCRICKETRICKET | Page 2 NNBABA | Page 5 India see off Pacers ease Pakistan, set past Hornets, up fi nal vs Celtics surprise Australia Nuggets

Wednesday, January 31, 2018 GOLF Jumada I 14, 1439 AH Tiger’s first serious GULF TIMES comeback test a success SPORT Page 3 FOOTBALL TENNIS Federation scales Gharafa survive up preparations for Qatar Total Open

QNA Al-Mohannadi had previously Doha announced that the tourna- ment will see the participation of Russian player Maria Shara- late scare to make atar Tennis, Squash pova, a winner in 2005 and 2008, and Badminton Feder- through wildcard. The same goes ation (QTSBF) is beef- for 2012 and 2013 champion Vic- ing up its preparations toria Azarenka who was also in- Qfor the 2018 Qatar Total Open, vited to the tournament. which takes place from Febru- Khalifa International Ten- ary 12-18 at Khalifa International nis and Squash Complex was Tennis and Squash Complex with opened in 1992 and initially had group stage of ACL the participation of some of the a capacity of 4,000-seat before world’s top players. it expanded in 2008 to 7,000. The tournament started in In 2008, there were also other Four Qatar teams, including Al Duhail, Al Sadd, Al Rayyan, now in the tournament 2001 as the fi rst women’s ten- expansions including VIP seats nis championship in the Middle besides upper, lower and mid- By Sports Reporter East, attracting leading players dle sections of the stadium and Doha as a Premier 5 event. zones for VIP and fans as well as Top-seeded players have re- a dining area. cently confi rmed their par- In 2012, two courts were add- l Gharafa survived a mighty in- ticipation, with the federation ed, which means that the com- jury time scare before qualify- announcing that Denmark’s plex now has one main court, ing for the Asian Champions Caroline Wozniacki, Romanian four additional courts, and 20 League group stage with a 2-1 Simona Halep, Ukraine’s Elina outdoor courts, making the Kha- Awin over Uzbek giants Pakhtakor in their Svitolina, Spaniard Garbine lifa International Tennis and West Zone playoff at the Thani bin Jassim Muguruza, Czech Karolna Plsk- Squash Complex the best venue Stadium here yesterday. ova, Latvia’s Jelena Ostapenko, to host one of the most impor- New signing Wesley Sneijder put the Frenchwoman Caroline Garcia, tant sporting events in the world. Cheetahs ahead with a successful 21st German Angelique Kerber and This year’s edition, a Premier 5 minute penalty and Portuguese Diogo France’s Kristina Mladenovic. event with a $2.3mn prizes, with Amado, who joined the team last year, Speaking to QNA, QTSBF sec- the participation of the top ten added one more seven minutes later to retary-general Tariq Zeinal said players, making it a top competi- ensure their passage to the tournament the federation aims to organise tion. proper for the fi rst time since 2012. an excellent edition of the tour- The fi rst edition of the Qa- Jasurbek Khakimov pulled one back nament with the participation of tar Total Open was held in 2001 for the Uzbeks three minutes into the the sport’s leading players to en- where the top seed Martina four-minute added time but with barely sure viewers get maximum dose Hingis captured the singles title seconds before the fi nal whistle, Marko of strong matches. after beating Sandrine Testud in Simic fi red the ball into Al Gharafa goal- Zeinal added that QTSBF and the fi nal. Hingis didn’t lose a sin- keeper Qassem Burhan’s body to waste organising committee president gle set during the tournament. a golden chance to send the match into Nasser al-Khelaifi has urged eve- Testud and Roberta Vinci had extra time, soothing the nerves in the Al ryone to do their best in order to won the doubles title then. Gharafa camp. ensure the annual excellence and Al Gharafa will now join UAE’s Al Jazira, success of the event in terms of VANDEWEGHE PULLS OUT Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli and Iran’s Tractor- organisation and viewership by American tennis star CoCo sasi in Group A of the AFC Champions tennis enthusiasts as well as the Vandeweghe has pulled out of League which will kick off on February 12, global coverage. the Qatar Total Open 2018 as ensuring the presence of four teams from As for preparations at Khalifa she recovers from a viral infec- Qatar in the lucrative continental tourna- International Tennis and Squash tion caught while playing at this ment, the others being Al Duhail, Al Sadd Complex, tournament director year’s Australian Open. and Al Rayyan. Saad al-Mohannadi said zones Vandeweghe is committed to Al Gharafa, who lie sixth in the QNB for fans, VIP and children are the US Fed Cup team that plays Stars League, had signed Dutch midfi elder currently being prepared in order the fi rst round in the US, but has Sneijder in early January along with Iranian to turn the complex into an inter- made a decision to limit her trav- Mehdi Taremi in a bid to boost their AFC active and entertaining place. el as much as possible. qualifi cation chances and also improve The fan and children zones of- Vandeweghe made it to the their standing on the domestic stage. Al Gharafa’s Wesley Sneijder (left) celebrates after scoring the team’s first goal against Pakhtakor during their Asian Champions fer entertainment activities for all third round of the Qatar To- And the vastly experienced duo were League group stage West Zone playoff at the Thani bin Jassim Stadium here yesterday. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil family members such as dining tal Open 2016, with straight set indeed the mainstays for their team yes- and the federation’s store. The VIP wins over Kirsten Flipkens and terday with their brilliant marshalling of Sneijder, who stepped up to take the ner of the net past Lobanov. point blank range. zone, meanwhile, off ers fans the Belinda Bencic, achieving her the midfi eld, occasionally also troubling shot, coolly slotted the ball home, send- The second half was hotly contested Al Gharafa’s jitters were evident and opportunity to interact with play- fi rst top-ten victory of 2016. the Tashkent-based Pakhtakor’s defence ing Pakhtakor goalkeeper Aleksandr with tempers occasionally fl aring and they almost conceded a second goal, but ers and guests in a luxury and re- “We will surely miss CoCo but by venturing forward. Lobanov the wrong way for only the sec- both defences living dangerously. goalkeeper Burhan foiled Simic’s eff ort laxed atmosphere where they can we wish her speedy recovery as The home team dominated proceed- ond goal for his new team, having ear- With chances being spurned at either from barely fi ve yards by blocking the enjoy high quality international we look forward to seeing her ings right from the word go but the bat- lier scored against Umm Salal in the QNB end, Al Gharafa needed only to hold their shot with his body. cuisine choices while they listen to doing what she knows how to tle-hardened Pakhtakor defence man- Stars League a couple of weeks ago. end, but were a bundle of nerves towards Simic, who had conceded the penalty jazz music. do best on the court as soon as aged to keep their wits about them to The Uzbeks were rattled by the reverse the fi nal moments, especially when four early in the game, slumped to the ground Al-Mohannadi said tourna- possible. This year’s event prom- ward off all danger. but continued to commit defensive er- minutes were added to the game. in despair, having wasted the chance to ment guests can get the event’s ises to be the best ever as all ar- But all that changed when Marko Sim- rors, and one of those proved costly when And sure enough, their defences fell make amends and give his team the life- pamphlet from the VIP reception rangements have been made to ic recklessly fouled Taremi in the 20th they failed to anticipate a Taremi move, with one minute to go when Khakimov line of extra time. offi ce and purchase federation ensure a fun-fi lled week of ten- minute and the referee Mohannad Saray the Iranian ace releasing Diogo, who de- was left unmarked close to the goal, and In sharp contrast, the Al Gharafa camp goods besides meeting tennis stars nis,” tournament director Saad of Iraq pointed to the spot. posited the ball into the bottom left cor- the striker didn’t make any mistake from erupted in joy. and taking photos with them. al-Mohannadi said.

Park Ji-sung says programmes such as Generation Amazing are ‘examples to football’

outh Korea’s iconic midfielder the SC for fusing football with social portance to social responsibility endorse that football and sport only Stadium). Park Ji-sung (right) has development through its flagship through football and everyone in unites. If people with vested inter- “We both converted penalties in the Spraised the Supreme Commit- CSR initiative Generation Amazing. the football industry must follow ests want to use the sport to divide tie-breaker, but it turned out to be tee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) for “I understand that Qatar’s 2022 these examples,” he continued. people it is wrong.” a memorable occasion for me as making corporate social responsibil- committee promotes social develop- “Football gives happiness to all chil- As well as praising the work being we became the first and only Asian ity a fundamental part of the 2022 ment through football, and that Xavi dren, and from 2010 it has been my carried out away from the bright nation to reach a World Cup semi- FIFA World Cup legacy plans. is the ambassador,” said Park. passion to enable underprivileged lights of elite sport, Park did take final,” he said. The 2002 FIFA World Cup semi- Generation Amazing was launched kids spend quality time on the field. a moment to reminisce about one Park concluded by identifying a finalist has been a member of the in 2010, when it was established dur- “They all take away something out memory from his glittering playing common ground between the first Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) ing Qatar’s bid to host the 2022 FIFA of the experience – it gives confi- days – with a man who, like him, is and the second World Cup tourna- Corporate Social Responsibility World Cup. Following Qatar winning dence to them though only some now championing CSR through the ments hosted by Asia: “Playing a Committee since 2015 and, from hosting rights, the programme was want to become professionals; some power of football. World Cup at home and reaching the 2010, has been running his philan- immediately established by the SC. learn the key concepts of team work With a wry smile, he fondly recalled semi-final has been the highlight of thropic organisation. Its goal is to use football for devel- and discipline; a few others cherish a memory with another legend my professional career and I thank The JS Foundation raises funds for opment initiatives to address social it because it helps them to keep out of the game, and now Generation Korean fans and countrymen for improving football infrastructure for issues in countries with an identi- of trouble in the big bad world.” Amazing Ambassador, Xavi Hernán- coming together as one. socially and economically under- fied need, and unite communities Park, who retired from international dez. “The magnificent stadiums built for privileged children in South Korea, using the power of sport. To date, it action in 2011 after earning his 100th He was, of course, referring to an the tournament, including Gwangju, North Korea and across the East has already launched programmes international cap, added: “Children encounter with Spain’s 2010 FIFA have served Korean clubs, cities and Asian region. across the world, from the Atlantic across political cultures, continents, World Cup winner – at the 2002 local communities and I understand The former Manchester United coast of Brazil to the foothills of the races and cultures react similarly. FIFA World Cup quarter-final at the stadiums for 2022 are also being midfielder, who won the UEFA Himalayas in Nepal. Having spent a lot of time with the Gwangju World Cup Stadium built to serve a similar purpose.” Champions League in 2008, praised “The AFC also gives a lot of im- them over the last few years, I can (now renamed the Guus Hiddink (SC.qa) Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, January 31, 2018 CRICKET

PREVIEW UNDER- 19 WORLD CUP India see off Aft er Test battle, SA, Pakistan, set India vie up Aussie final for honours

AFP Christchurch in ODI series ndia eased past arch-rivals Pakistan by 203 runs in their Under-19 World Cup semi-final in AFP Christchurch yesterday to set up a tournament Durban De Villiers Idecider against Australia. An unbeaten century from Shubman Gill helped India ruled out of set a competitive total of 272, which Pakistan never outh Africa and India will looked like reaching as they were skittled for 69 with vie for the world number first three more than 20 overs remaining. one ranking again when Ishan Porel was India’s hero with the ball, taking four they meet in a six-match matches Sone-day international series, for 17 in a match the tournament favourites utterly dominated. starting at Kingsmead tomorrow. “It was a good performance from everyone... we did a The one-day games start just really good job,” captain Prithvi Shaw said. fi ve days after India retained It was the Pakistan youth team’s third-lowest total on their top ranking in Tests, al- record, underlining the batting woes of a team that though second-placed South failed to score more than 200 during the tournament Africa closed the points gap by in New Zealand. winning the series 2-1. Poor fielding also undermined Pakistan’s chances as South Africa are on top of the they squandered seven run-out chances. International Cricket Council “Unfortunately our batsmen didn’t really perform and one-day rankings by a slen- nothing really worked out from the start,” Pakistan der one point from India. With skipper Hassan Khan said. the points adjusted after each “We missed a couple of chances and things didn’t match, there is the potential really go our way.” for the number one position to The result sees India square off against fellow heavy- change from match to match. weight Australia in Saturday’s final in Tauranga. But South African coach Ottis Both sides have won the tournament three times, Gibson is less concerned about with India winning its last title in 2012 when they the rankings than the long-term defeated Australia in the final. goal of winning the 2019 Cricket India are unbeaten in New Zealand, with five convinc- World Cup in England. ing wins from five matches, including a 100-run win South Africa picked a big Cape Town: Free-scoring over Australia in the group stages. squad of 15 for the fi rst three batsman AB de Villiers has Australia also looked vulnerable in their quarter-final games and Gibson said there was been ruled out of the first against England before a record-breaking eight- a possibility other players could three one-day internation- wicket spell from leg-spinner Lloyd Pope turned the be considered for the last three. als against India through match. “We’re the number one team injury, Cricket South Africa Against Pakistan, the Indians won the toss and elect- at the moment but that doesn’t announced yesterday. ed to bat first, with openers Shaw and Manjot Kalra mean a lot leading up to a World De Villiers bruised an index scoring at better than a run a ball in the early overs. Cup,” said Gibson. finger attempting to take a Pakistan’s vaunted pace attack, which fired them into “Winning isn’t the be-all and catch in the 63-run defeat the final four, failed to make inroads as fielding errors end-all at this stage. There is a in the third Test against the saw Kalra dropped twice. fi ne line and we will try and en- tourists in Johannesburg. The 89-run opening partnership was finally broken sure that whatever team we pick He will need at least two when Shaw was run out for 41, with the TV umpire rul- India’s Shubman Gill celebrates has an equal chance of winning weeks for a full recovery, ing he failed to ground his bat properly while diving his century during the U19 but we have a goal and a vision ruling him out of the 50-over for safety. World Cup semi-final against leading up to the World Cup and ODIs in Durban, Pretoria Kalra departed on 47 but India still appeared set for Pakistan at Hagley Oval in we want to expose as many play- and Cape Town, starting a big total until paceman Arshad Iqbal slowed their Christchurch yesterday. ers as possible.” tomorrow. momentum with three wickets in as many overs. Unlike the Tests, the one-day De Villiers has scored 9,515 Mohamed Musa helped mop up the tail, ending with internationals could be domi- runs in 225 ODIs at an aver- figures of four for 67 but Gill continued his rich vein nated by batsmen, with six of the age of more than 54 and a of form at the tournament to ensure India’s total was world’s top ten one-day batsmen strike rate of 101. He holds competitive. in action on pitches which, un- the record for the fastest He steadied the middle order and brought up his 93- like the Tests, should favour ag- century in the format, reach- ball century in the final over, finishing on 102 not out. gressive stroke play. ing the milestone off only 31 Pakistan made a disastrous start, slumping to 28 for Indian captain Virat Kohli balls against the West Indies four as Porel tore through their top order. Shaw led heads the ICC batting list, close- in 2015. the way in the field with two sharply-taken catches. ly followed by his South Afri- The South Africa selectors Only three Pakistan batsman reached double figures, can friend and Indian Premier have not named a replace- with Rohail Nazir top-scoring on 18 in a one-sided League teammate AB de Villiers. ment, hoping he will be fit in contest. Indian vice-captain Rohit time for the fourth match in Sharma and South Africans the six-game series in Johan- Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis nesburg on Feb. 10. and Hashim Amla are also in the top ten, while India’s MS Dhoni COUNTY STINT SPOTLIGHT and Shikhar Dhawan are at 13 de Kock, JP Duminy, Imran Tahir, and 14 on the list. Aiden Markram, David Miller, India, meanwhile, will look to Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Lun- the recent example of England in gi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Pujara Lanka banking on ‘wily old fox’ Herath Australia, where the tourists over- Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, turned a Test series defeat with an Khaya Zondo. AFP Bangladesh were expected to off er Sri emphatic one-day triumph. India: Virat Kohli (capt), Rohit heads to Chittagong Lanka a turning wicket of the kind that India, too, have a biq squad, Sharma (vice-captain), Jasprit helped them win one Test each against with only eight of nine of their 17 Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, England and Australia in their last Test en- players having played in the Test Shikhar Dhawan, MS Dhoni, Yorkshire ri Lanka will bank on the guile of counters at home. series. Nine of the South Afri- Shreyas Iyer, Kedar Jadhav, record-breaking left-arm spinner “I think it will have a bit of spin on this cans played in the Tests. Dinesh Karthik (wkt), Kuldeep Reuters Rangana Herath as they try to pitch. Our batsmen have to take the re- Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, London Sextend their recent winning streak sponsibility, as also our bowlers,” said Squads: Mohamed Shami, Manish Pan- to the two-Test series against Bangladesh, stand-in Bangladeshi captain Mahmudul- South Africa: Faf du Plessis dey, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, captain Dinesh Chandimal said yesterday. lah Riyad. (capt), Hashim Amla, Quinton Ajinkya Rahane, Shardul Thakur. ndia Test batsman After a dismal last few months, Sri “We have to do the basics right, pick Cheteshwar Pujara has Lanka appeared to have turned the tide by up wickets early if we bowl fi rst or put to- signed for a second stint winning the recent tri-nation tournament gether partnerships so that we can get a big ANNOUNCEMENT with English county York- with an emphatic 79-run victory against score,” he said. Ishire to prepare for his national Bangladesh in the fi nal one-dayer. Mahmudullah took over the captaincy of side’s tour of the country later The win has put the spring back in the the Test team after newly-appointed cap- this year. steps of Chandimal’s men ahead of the fi rst tain Shakib Al Hasan was ruled out of the Melbourne to host The 30-year-old, who played Test beginning in the port city of Chit- fi rst Test with a fi nger injury. for Yorkshire in 2015, will share tagong today. “It is a big loss,” Mahmudullah said of overseas duties with New Zea- The two teams drew their Test series 1-1 Chandimal especially hailed the Shakib, who is also the hosts’ most expe- fi nal of men’s and land skipper Kane Williamson, in Sri Lanka last year. The hosts won the 39-year-old Herath, who is the most suc- rienced spinner. giving the county three of the fi rst Test in Galle by a huge margin before cessful left-arm spinner in Test history “But you have to go ahead accepting all world’s top six test batsmen — Bangladesh levelled the series with a win with 406 wickets after passing Daniel Vet- the challenges. I think if we can execute women’s 2020 T20 England captain Joe Root being in their 100th Test in Colombo. tori’s tally of 362 Test wickets last year. our decisions positively, we will have a the other — on their staff . “This will be a great series for both teams,” “He is a wily old fox. He can do what he good game.” Reuters body, the International Crick- “It’s an honour for me to play Chandimal told reporters, citing the experi- wants to do. He is a big asset in our team,” The second Test is in Dhaka, starting on Melbourne et Council (ICC), hoping for a for the same county as (former ence of Rangana Herath and Dilruwan Perera. he said. February 8. record attendance at a women’s India batsmen) Yuvraj Singh and sporting event. Sachin Tendulkar, and each time elbourne Cricket “It’s very exciting to think I’ve played county cricket it has Ground will host about... to potentially play in improved me as a player,” Pujara Lankan curator under fire for slow Dhaka wicket the fi nal of both the front of over 90,000 people,” said in a club statement. Mmen’s and wom- Australia women’s captain Meg “That’s the plan again in 2018. Dhaka: Bangladesh cricket authorities the league phase against the same op- reasons behind the hosts’ debacle in the fi- en’s World Twenty20 when the Lanning told reporters. I just want to score as many runs yesterday sought an explanation from ponents. nal. Former umpire-turned-curator Gamini tournaments come to Australia “I think it just shows where as possible for Yorkshire and their Sri Lankan curator Gamini de Silva “We wanted to know from Gamini why the has been in charge of the Sher-e-Bangla in 2020, organisers announced the women’s game is at. It’s al- soak up as much as I can from for preparing a slow wicket in Dhaka, wicket behaved like that,” said Bangladesh National Stadium since 2011. yesterday. The women’s tourna- ways evolving and it’s exciting to the whole experience.” where the hosts lost the tri-nation Cricket Board media committee chairman He was subjected to some harsh criticism ment, made up of 10 teams, will see where it is in 2020.” Known for his defensive tech- final against Sri Lanka. The islanders Jalal Yunus. for producing slow wickets during the be held from Feb. 21 to March 8 The ICC and Cricket Australia nique, Pujara went unsold in the defeated much-fancied Bangladesh “It was a wicket of 320 runs. All of sudden Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 before 16 men’s teams play from unveiled the venues for both tour- recent auction for this year’s by 79 runs on Saturday to win the 50- it turned out to be a slow wicket. This is a tournament in November. Oct. 18 to Nov. 15. It will mark the naments yesterday, with wom- Indian Premier League (IPL) over tournament, which also involved routine explanation, which we can always The ground also came under scrutiny fi rst time the tournaments are en’s pool matches to be played at Twenty20 competition but bats Zimbabwe. seek from an employee,” he said. from the International Cricket Council, held as standalone events in the several smaller venues in Perth, at the important number three Bangladesh were bowled out for 142 while Off icials said the slow wicket was contrary which rated its outfield as “poor” after same year in the same country. Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, position in the Test side. India chasing 222 at the Sher-e-Bangla National to the requirements of home team with Bangladesh beat Australia in a Test match The women’s fi nal will coin- Adelaide and Canberra. Both the will play fi ve tests in England, Stadium, where they had posted 320-7 in experts identifying it as one of the main in August-September. cide with International Women’s women’s semi-fi nals will be at the starting at Edgbaston on Aug. 1. Day, with the world governing Sydney Cricket Ground. Gulf Times Wednesday, January 31, 2018 3 SPORT

GOLF TENNIS Tomic ‘highly doubtful’ Tiger’s fi rst serious to return to Davis Cup, says captain Hewitt

AFP had problems with governing Sydney body Tennis Australia. comeback test a success, “I can’t talk about it, and ob- viously it is just going to have ustralian Davis Cup to take time to clear and fi x... captain Lleyton Hewitt because I know the only way for said yesterday it is Australia to win Davis Cup is for “highly doubtful” Ber- me and Nick (Kyrgios) playing,” major challenges await nardA Tomic would play for Aus- he said. tralia again, after the troubled Tomic has a 17-4 win-loss tennis star this week declared record playing Davis Cup but has the team could not win the event not played for the national team ‘He wanted to play well and make the cut and play without him. for over 12 months. Speaking ahead of their World A long-time supporter of four rounds. He achieved all of those. His short Group fi rst round tie against Tomic, Hewitt brushed aside the Germany in Brisbane at the troubled star’s latest outburst. game and putting was very good, world class in fact’ weekend, Hewitt said Australia “There is probably a lot more was in good stead with its cur- that plays out behind the scenes Reuters The spinal fusion surgery side of the fairway with least rent team – including Nick than what Bernie says publicly,” La Jplla, California he had last April to allevi- trouble on intimidating, dif- Kyrgios, Jordan Thompson and he said. ate pain in his back and leg fi cult driving holes. It’s all up-and-comer Alex De Minaur “For me, he’s made some mis- seems to have had the desired about the score. – without Tomic. takes and it will be a long way decade ago Tiger result. It is a serious proce- “He wanted to play well “It’s highly doubtful,” Hewitt back.” Woods would not dure with no guarantee of and make the cut and play send when asked about the Once a rising star, the 25-year- have been happy to success, but the gamble has four rounds. He achieved all chance of a Tomic return. “With old’s ranking has plunged after a fi nish tied for 23rd paid off as he looks to resur- of those. His short game and the team camaraderie we have at car-crash 2017 season in which atA Torrey Pines but after the rect his career. putting was very good, world the moment, it is as good as I’ve he admitted he was “bored” and injury woes he has endured in Finishing joint 23rd on class in fact.” been a part of in a long time.” not always giving 100 percent. recent years the former world Sunday out of a fi eld of 156 in Baker-Finch expects “We fully believe that the Tomic made headlines ear- number one could not have only his second start since the Woods to improve during the players we have here, we can go lier this month after boasting “I been more delighted with his surgery - the other being at year, assuming the Ameri- a long way,” he added. just count my millions” after he latest performance. last month’s unoffi cial Hero can’s back does not give out Tomic created a stir this week failed to qualify for the Austral- Aged 42, Woods is unlikely World Challenge - proved again. in a television interview when he ian Open. to reach the dizzy heights he that he is determined to make Woods has been stuck on declared Australia could not win He is currently appearing on achieved in his 1997-2008 the comeback count. 14 major titles since the 2008 the Davis Cup without him. the reality show “I’m a Celebri- glory days, when he won 14 His driving was ordinary - U.S. Open. While his chances “I love Davis Cup to bits, it’s ty... Get me out of here!”, but has majors. But at the Farmers he hit only three fairways in of matching Jack Nicklaus’ not that I don’t want to play,” he threatened to leave just two days Insurance Open he showed a each of the fi nal three rounds record haul of 18 might be told Channel 10 on Monday. after entering the South African doubting audience his short - but former British Open slim, it is not unthinkable to But the 25-year-old said he jungle for the series. game and creativity are still champion Ian Baker-Finch suggest he could challenge intact. Woods still knows said it was not as bad as it for another one or two again. how to get the ball into the might have seemed to some. The fi rst test will come hole even when his driver is at the Masters in April, and not a model of consistency. NOT BAD everything he does between More importantly, he came “Driving is certainly in now and then will form part through 72 holes on a tough need of improvement but not of his preparation. course without any obvious as bad as stats show,” Baker- “I like what I saw,” Baker- signs of physical discomfort. Finch, who was part of the Finch said. “He will only gain It was a far cry from 12 CBS television commentary more confi dence with more months ago when, in obvious team at Torrey Pines, told reps. Watch closely at Riviera pain, he gingerly completed Reuters. (at the Genesis Open in three 36 holes at the same venue. “Tiger will miss on the weeks).”

Day, McIlroy return to world’s top 10

Former world number ones Jason Day and Rory title defence would have seen him overhaul the McIlroy returned to the top 10 in the rankings American. yesterday, after the Australian’s victory at Torrey Pines and McIlroy’s second-placed finish in World top 20 Dubai. 1. Dustin Johnson (USA) 10.72 average pts The 30-year-old Day jumped up four places after 2. Jon Rahm (ESP) 9.55 edging out Alex Noren in a play-off at the Farm- 3. Jordan Spieth (USA) 8.80 ers Insurance Open on Monday, after darkness 4. Justin Thomas (USA) 8.01 had brought an early halt the previous day, to 5. Hideki Matsuyama (JPN) 7.40 claim his first title since the 2016 Players Champi- 6. Justin Rose (ENG) 7.39 Bernard Tomic has a 17-4 win-loss record in Davis Cup but has not onship. 7. Rickie Fowler (USA) 6.65 played for the national team for over 12 months. Four-time major winner McIlroy slipped out of 8. Rory McIlroy (NIR) 6.09 (+3) the top 10 last year after failing to win in a 9. Brooks Koepka (USA) 6.00 (-1) season for the first time since 2008, but he 10. Jason Day (AUS) 5.80 (+4) Chung pulls out of Sofi a Open due to injury moved up three spots to eighth despite losing 11. Sergio Garcia (ESP) 5.66 (-2) out in a thrilling back-nine battle with Chinese 12. Henrik Stenson (SWE) 5.59 (-2) Chung Hyeon will miss next week’s Sofia Open after failing to recover youngster Li Haotong at the Dubai Desert 13. Tommy Fleetwood (ENG) 5.43 (-1) from the foot injury that forced him to retire from his Australian Classic. 14. Marc Leishman (AUS) 5.19 (-1) Open semi-final against Roger Federer, organisers said yesterday. Li’s victory at the weekend saw him become the 15. Tyrrell Hatton (ENG) 4.81 (+3) The 21-year-old South Korean, who beat six-times champion Novak first Chinese man to ever break the world’s top 16. Alex Noren (SWE) 4.75 (+3) Djokovic in the fourth round at Melbourne Park, has climbed from 50, with a rise of 28 places to 32nd. 17. Paul Casey (ENG) 4.58 (-2) 58th to 29th in the world, the highest ranking achieved by a Korean Spaniard Jon Rahm closed the gap on world 18. Pat Perez (USA) 4.50 (-1) player. Bulgarian world number four Grigor Dimitrov faces a race number one Dustin Johnson, despite falling out 19. Matt Kuchar (USA) 4.44 (-3) against time to get fit to defend his title in Sofia after shoulder pain of contention at Torrey Pines when a successful 20. Brian Harman (USA) 3.83 and exhaustion prevented him from practising.

NHL FED CUP Pliskova to lead Czechs Burke, Brodeur now calling against Switzerland the shots, not stopping pucks Reuters ever we select he is going to be solid and Toronto right now we are pretty comfortable with what we have. “The fact the NHL players aren’t play- n Martin Brodeur and Sean Burke ing I think will really level the playing the Canadian men’s ice hockey team fi eld for a lot of these countries that nev- heads to the Pyeongchang Winter er aspired to win a medal and now they Games with one of the greatest goal- see that they have a chance.” Itending combinations ever seen at the Asked if he had thought about putting Czech Republic’s Karolina Pliskova hits a return against Romania’s Olympics. the pads on one more time Brodeur, who Simona Halep during their Australian Open quarter-final in Melbourne With over a combined 1,000 Na- retired in 2015, broke into laughter. on January 24. (AFP) tional Hockey League career wins the Burke pondered the idea for the thought of Brodeur or Burke manning the briefest of moments then with an equally AFP won fi ve out of the last seven Fed crease would inspire confi dence among hearty chuckle passed the buck. Prague Cup editions, on top of fi ve tro- hockey crazed Canadians that a third “Maybe Marty could but I’ve got two phies for former Czechoslova- consecutive gold medal was an almost bionic hips now so I think those days are kia. Switzerland beat the Czechs certainty. done,” said Burke. orld number fi ve only in 1998 on the way to their After all, statistically Brodeur is the Despite their goaltenders’ lack of top- Karolina Pliskova will only Fed Cup fi nals so far, which best to ever play the position and a cer- level experience, Burke said hockey’s lead the Czech Re- they eventually lost to Spain. tain fi rst ballot Hall of Famer. great equaliser, be it a best-of-seven public against Swit- Their team was then spear- He played 22 years in the NHL racking Stanley Cup fi nal or Olympics, is a net- Wzerland in their fi rst-round Fed headed by Martina Hingis, up more wins (691) and shutouts (125) minder who can suddenly strike a rich Cup tie in Prague on February 10- the former world number one and more games as a goaltender (1,266) vein of form that may last a period, game 11, the Czech team said yesterday. in both singles and doubles, than anyone else. He also won three or an entire tournament. Pliskova will team up with who ended her career as player Stanley Cups with the New Jersey Devils “The format of an Olympic event lends 24th-ranked Barbora Strycova, last year and who will travel to and participated in four Winter Games itself to be more successful if you have a 29th-ranked two-time Wimble- Prague as a Swiss coach, accord- winning gold in 2002 and 2010. hot goaltender for a two week period,” don champion Petra Kvitova and ing to Czech media. Burke’s resume may not match Bro- St. Louis Blues goalie Martin Brodeur kisses the back of his helmet before an NHL game. Burke said. 30th-ranked Lucie Safarova on the The Swiss have called up deur’s but is impressive by every other “A hot goaltender for two weeks in an hardcourt of Prague’s O2 Arena. world number 42 Timea Bacsin- standard having played 820 games (13th With the NHL refusing to release play- (144 games and 47 wins over fi ve seasons) NHL season really probably doesn’t do “It defi nitely won’t be an szky, 72nd-ranked Belinda Ben- on the NHL all-time list) and amassed ers for the tournament, Brodeur and do not inspire the same confi dence as that much over the course of 82 games easy tie but I trust our team’s cic, Viktorija Golubic (109) and 324 wins. He also played in two Olympics Burke have had to look hard for netmind- their vaunted coaches, but Brodeur be- but a hot goalie at an Olympic event can strength,” Pliskova, the 25-year- Jil Teichmann (135) for the tie, winning silver in 1992. ers to play at Pyeongchang. lieves they have found the right men. win you the gold medal. old Australian Open quarter- said the Fed Cup website. But for these Olympics Brodeur and Justin Peters (83 NHL games and 25 “We don’t have the pick of the litter “No doubt if we get to the Olympics fi nalist, said on the team’s Fa- “It will be tough because Be- Burke will be standing behind the bench wins spread over seven seasons with here,” Brodeur told Reuters. with what we feel is really good goal- cebook page. Leading 6-1 in linda and Golubic play great where their job is not stopping pucks but three teams), Kevin Poulin (50 games, “There are not many Canadian goalies tending I think that gives you a chance to head-to-head encounters with tennis, but we’ll get ready,” said fi nding the players who can. 18 wins in fi ve seasons) and Ben Scrivens out there if we have to make sure who- compete every game.” Switzerland, the Czechs have Strycova. Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, January 31, 2018 SPORT

RUGBY ‘Loss of coaching expertise should concern NZR’ Reuters matics once a coach reached that Former Canterbury Crusaders Boyd took over at the Hurri- Fringe All Black Ngatai confi rms move to France Wellington level. assistant Vern Cotter, who spent canes in 2015 and led the side to “Once you get to Super Rug- eight years in France with Cler- two Super Rugby fi nals, winning One-test All Black Charlie Ngatai has continued your career’s going to finish,” he said, adding that by head coach in New Zealand, mont Auvergne, also arguably laid their fi rst title in 2016, and the the exodus of fringe national players from New the depth of talent in the All Blacks midfield would ew Zealand Rugby there’s really nowhere to go,” the foundations for a turnaround semi-fi nals last year. Zealand before the next Rugby World Cup as the make it a challenge to break through. “I guess a bosses should be con- Boyd told reporters. in Scotland’s fortunes when he Despite his success at Super centre will be moving to France, where he will play lot of it comes down to money. And then opportu- cerned about the loss “I think it’s an issue poten- took the role in 2014. Rugby level, he said he had no for Lyon. “LOU Rugby is happy to announce the nity – there’s a lot of young players coming through of expertise from rugby tially for New Zealand Rugby that immediate plans beyond North- signing of Charlie Ngatai... who signed a two-year in New Zealand, and places in the All Blacks team Ncoaches moving overseas because there’s a lot of experience and in- REFEREEING ERROR ampton and was not looking at contract as of next season,” the Top-14 team said are a lot harder.” Ngatai joins 16-test flyhalf Lima of limited career opportunities tellectual property that ends up The Scots should have qualifi ed the job as a springboard into the in a statement yesterday. The 27-year-old, whose Sopoaga and the uncapped Wellington Hurricanes at home, departing Wellington going overseas.” for the 2015 Rugby World Cup international arena. only test for the All Blacks came in 2015, appeared flanker Brad Shields as promising players heading Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd has That intellectual property is semi-fi nals but for a referring “I don’t really work on goals,” set for a long stay in the team after the last World abroad at the end of the 2018 Super Rugby season. warned. now being used against the three- error, while last November and said Boyd, who was a technical Cup in England but suff ered a concussion in early Shields, who has already said he is moving to The 59-year-old Boyd has been times world champions, with now under former fl yhalf Gregor adviser with Tonga during the 2016 that kept him out of Rugby for more than 12 English club Wasps, has been on the fringe of the appointed as the director of rugby former Auckland Blues assistant Townsend, they came within one 2011 Rugby World Cup. months. “I’m likely looking to head overseas, and All Blacks for a number of seasons without being for English club Northampton coach Joe Schmidt leading Ireland pass of beating New Zealand for “If you’re in something, you more likely over to France, at the end of the sea- selected and qualifies automatically for England and takes up his new role at the to number three in the world and the fi rst time. want to do the best you can and son,” Ngatai told reporters in Hamilton earlier. through his parents. Utility back Charles Piutau end of the upcoming Super Rugby their fi rst win over the All Blacks Wales coach Warren Gatland if it works out well then another The Waikato Chiefs centre said his decision was in- also left for Europe in arguably his prime in 2015, season. in 2016. also led the British and Irish Li- door will open. If it doesn’t, then fluenced by the impact the concussion had had on while loose forward Steven Luatua joined Bristol Despite dominating world Such is the infl uence of New ons to his homeland last year and the doors close. his career. He said he wanted to secure his financial last year. Both were in their mid-20s when they left rugby, New Zealand has just fi ve Zealand coaches in Ireland in the sealed a series draw, while former “I didn’t really have a goal of future now rather than try to push his way back and had been considered having important roles top-tier professional teams, all of last 10 years that at one point in Otago Highlanders coach Jamie coaching international football. into All Blacks contention ahead of the 2019 Rugby to play for the All Blacks in coach Steve Hansen’s which feed into the world cham- the last fi ve years all four of their Joseph is in charge of Japan and “If you ask me where you think World Cup in Japan. “That’s another reason why planning for the 2019 tournament, where the team pion national side, and Boyd said professional sides were coached Milton Haig leads European dark I’ll be in three years’ time, I actu- we looked overseas as well, you never know when are seeking a third successive title. yesterday it was simple mathe- by New Zealanders. horses Georgia. ally have no idea.”

PREVIEW MOTORSPORT McLaren’s Alonso to drive in Le Mans Injuries overshadow that they listened and under- AFP Paris stood what this means to me. “In no way will this challenge take away from my main target wo time ex world cham- of Formula 1 with McLaren. In pion Fernando Alonso 2018, my aim is to be competi- will make his Le Mans tive at every grand prix, and I feel 24-hour race debut this sure that we are closer to achiev- start to Six Nations Tyear after getting permission to ing that.” take a leave of absence from For- Alonso gained experience for ‘For the Lions players you can understand that the injury risk is high because of the mula One by his team McLaren. Le Mans in the Daytona endur- “McLaren has confi rmed it ance race in Florida on Sunday lack of a proper pre-season that they have, but obviously they’re not all Lions players’ will allow Fernando Alonso to where he fi nished 38th. compete in upcoming rounds of McLaren executive director AFP the World Endurance Champi- Zak Brown said that the team London onship, including this year’s 24 supported Alonso’s Le Mans Hours of Le Mans,” the team an- dream as “our organisation ap- nounced yesterday. preciates that a motivated, njuries during the Six Na- McLaren stressed that F1 was hungry and happy world-class tions are one thing, but the still Alonso’s main priority, and driver such as Fernando is a for- fact they are a major talking as such he will compete in every midable asset for any team in F1”. point even before this sea- round of the 2018 season. Brown added that like Alonso, Ison’s edition kicks off highlights Last year the Spaniard missed McLaren are “racers at heart” the increasingly brutal nature of the Monaco Grand Prix to com- which is built “on a brave herit- professional rugby union. pete in the Indianapolis 500 as age of competing and succeed- Europe’s elite international part of his dream of winning ing in diff erent forms of the competition gets underway this motor sport’s Triple Crown of sport”. weekend, with England looking Monaco, the Indy 500 and Le This year’s Le Mans at the Cir- to become the fi rst side to win Mans. The feat has only been cuit de la Sarthe is scheduled for three successive outright titles achieved by one other driver – June 16-17 between the Montreal in the long history of the Graham Hill. and Austrian Grand Prix. Championship. “We tried for Indy last year, Yet they could be missing came close, but just missed out,” more than 16 players against Ita- Alonso said. ly in Rome on Sunday, with wing “This year, I have the chance Elliot Daly and star No 8 Billy thanks to McLaren to race for the Vunipola already ruled out of the win at Le Mans. It is a big chal- entire tournament. Scotland, lenge – much can go wrong – but fresh from a hugely encouraging I am ready, prepared and looking November that included a 53-24 forward to the fi ght. win over Australia and a narrow “My deal to race in WEC was defeat by world champions New only made possible through Zealand, are missing six front- the good understanding and row forwards. strong relationship I have with Meanwhile Wales, the Scots’ McLaren, and I’m very happy opening opponents in Cardiff on Saturday, are without sev- eral British and Irish Lions in FOCUS Taulupe Faletau, Sam Warbur- ton, Jonathan Davies and Dan Biggar. But if any team can deal with a raft of injuries, it ought to Russian speed skater be a well-resourced England. Eddie Jones, the title-hold- ers’ Australian coach, said the rejects Pyeongchang Lions’ gruelling drawn series in New Zealand last year partly explained the injury toll. Games invitation “You just have these runs,” he insisted. “For the Lions players Reuters a Facebook post. you can understand that the in- Moscow “I regret that more than half jury risk is high because of the the national speed skating team lack of a proper pre-season that did not receive invitations to the they have, but obviously they’re ussian speed skater Olympics, including my part- not all Lions players.” France’s coach Jacques Brunel (right) speaks to players during a training session at their training camp in Marcoussis, south of Paris, ahead Olga Graf said yesterday ners in the team pursuit, who I Jones has tried to play down of the Six Nations opener match against Ireland next February 3. (AFP) she had turned down an don’t doubt are clean. England’s chances, even though International Olym- “Having been deprived of the he can still call upon the likes picR Committee (IOC) invita- chance to compete for the Olym- of fl y-half Owen Farrell, by in- Adams to make Wales debut as Gatland forced to juggle tion to compete at next month’s pic podium in the team pursuit, I stalling Ireland, who infl icted Pyeongchang Winter Games. do not accept the IOC invitation the only defeat so far on his Red Worcester wing Josh Adams will make his Faletau as Wales seek to protect a 16-year “Both Rhys (Patchell) and Gareth (Anscombe) Graf, one of three female for the XXIII Olympic Winter Rose record when denying them Wales debut in Saturday’s Six Nations opener unbeaten home record against Scotland. have been training really well over the last speed skaters on the list of 169 Games in Pyeongchang.” a second straight Grand Slam in against Scotland, with head coach Warren Wales, who have not won the Six Nations couple of weeks. “It was a tough call between Russians cleared to compete in Graf won bronze medals in the Dublin last March, as Six Na- Gatland forced to juggle his resources be- since 2013, are desperate to make a winning them. Rhys has started most of his games for Pyeongchang, is the fi rst eligible 3000 metres and team pursuit tions favourites. cause of injuries to key players. start to the competition, with successive the Scarlets at 10, we are really happy with his Russian athlete to publicly an- events at the 2014 Sochi Games. Ireland’s provincial sides have Swansea-born Adams, this season’s top try- away games coming up against England and form and the combination with Gareth (Dav- nounce she would not compete Alexei Kravtsov, president impressed in Europe’s Champi- scorer in the English Premiership, will feature Ireland. Back-row forward Ross Moriarty is ies) at nine. “We know what a quality player at the Games. of Russia’s speed skating fed- ons Cup club competition and in a starting line-up in Cardiff that includes 10 recalled and will pack down at number eight Ross (Moriarty) is. It’s great he is back and Russia was banned last month eration, told RIA Novosti news Jones said: “I think the expecta- Scarlets players. Rhys Patchell is handed the alongside Aaron Shingler and Josh Navidi available, and we are looking forward to see- from the Feb. 9-25 Winter Ol- agency it respected Graf’s deci- tion on Ireland is high, and it’s fly-half role in place of the injured Dan Biggar in the back-row after impressing in recent ing his explosive ball-carrying on Saturday.” ympics in South Korea over what sion. how they handle it now, isn’t but there is no place in the match-day 23 for Gloucester outings following his recovery SQUAD the IOC called the “systematic “Two of her partners in the it? It’s diff erent going into the Northampton wing George North. from a back problem. Wales (15-1) manipulation” of the anti-dop- team pursuit did not receive an tournament as favourites, rather It will be Patchell’s sixth cap, but his first start “We have been watching Josh closely,” Gat- Leigh Halfpenny: Josh Adams, Scott Williams, ing testing system at the Sochi invitation to the Olympics,” RIA than being the underdog.” in the Wales number 10 shirt, while other Scar- land said. “He is top try-scorer in the English Hadleigh Parkes, Steff Evans; Rhys Patchell, Games four years ago. quoted Kravtsov as saying yes- But with their conclud- lets players selected include centre Hadleigh Premiership and has been going well, and we Gareth Davies; Ross Moriarty, Josh Navidi, But the IOC left the door terday. “This is the event she was ing game of the tournament at Parkes, wing Steff Evans, scrum-half Gareth are excited for him.” Aaron Shingler; Alun Wyn Jones (capt), Cory open for athletes without a his- preparing for and she won’t be Twickenham – where England Davies and prop Samson Lee. “The first-up game against Scotland this Hill; Samson Lee, Ken Owens, Rob Evans tory of doping to compete at its able to take part in it.” have not lost a home Test un- Biggar is among several senior players side- weekend is really important for us, and this is Replacements: Elliot Dee, Wyn Jones, Tomas invitation without the Russian Russian authorities last der Jones – Ireland coach Joe lined through injury alongside Sam Warbur- a great chance for this group of players to get Francis, Bradley Davies, Justin Tipuric, Aled tricolour, national emblems or month said they would support Schmidt said: “Bookies don’t ton, Jonathan Davies, Rhys Webb and Taulupe us off to a good start,” he added. Davies, Gareth Anscombe, Owen Watkin. anthem. the athletes who chose to com- make money by being wrong. Graf said the exclusion of sev- pete in Pyeongchang as neutrals You’ve got a team (England) eral teammates would prevent following a ban of the Russian there that’s won 22 out of 23 Test boss, in a bid to lift them out of in Japan. Brunel could entrust Italy, under Irish coach Conor against Wales in Cardiff . “Olympic Athletes from Rus- team, as well as those who de- matches over the last two years.” a prolonged slump. Rugby Un- the key position of fl y-half to a O’Shea, the goal remains one By contrast Scotland, for all sia,” the term used by the IOC to cided to snub the Games. Ireland too have injury prob- ion is not so strong at Test level 19-year-old in Matthieu Jalib- of self-respect and the need to the attacking threat of Stuart designate Russian competitors The Court of Arbitration for lems, with the experienced Sean that it can aff ord a sustained ert, having coached the teen- improve on a desperate run of Hogg and Finn Russell, have at the Games, from contending Sport is expected to issue its O’Brien and Jared Payne both decline among its tradition- ager at Bordeaux. “He’s come just one win in their last 20 Six not won in the Welsh capital for a medal in the team pursuit decision this week in the cases sidelined at the moment. ally major nations and a French on in leaps and bounds since Nations fi xtures. Last season, since 2002 – one reason why event. of 39 Russian athletes who have Meanwhile France have revival would be a welcome the start of the season,” insisted excluding matches in Italy, the Saturday’s clash could have “I’m glad that the IOC has been banned from the Olympic turned to a new coach in boost to the global game a year Brunel, whose side face Ire- only away win in the tourna- such a huge bearing on their recognised me as a clean athlete, Games after being found guilty Jacques Brunel, the former Italy out from the 2019 World Cup land in Paris on Saturday. For ment was achieved by England Championship. which is what I am,” Graf said in of doping at Sochi. Gulf Times Wednesday, January 31, 2018 5 SPORT

NBA Pacers ease past Hornets, Celtics surprise Nuggets The teams battled back and forth for the first three quarters before the Pacers pulled away late in the fourth with a 13-4 run

AFP Los Angeles Clippers trade ictor Oladipo and Myles Turner com- Griffin to Pistons bined for 47 points as the Indiana Pac- Los Angeles: The Los Ange- ersV won their second straight les Clippers have agreed to with a 105-96 win over the trade Blake Griff in to the De- struggling Charlotte Hornets troit Pistons in a multi-player on Monday. deal that features a package The teams battled back and of NBA players and draft forth for the fi rst three quar- picks, the US media reported ters before the Pacers pulled Monday. away late in the fourth with a Griff in, who spent his entire 13-4 run. career with the Clippers, goes Oladipo sparked the surge to Detroit along with guard with a 19-footer and by the Willie Green, forward Brice time the run was over, the Johnson and a second round Pacers had boosted their lead pick, US television broad- to 94-86 with six minutes re- caster ESPN reported. this season. Over his career, maining. They took over after The Clippers will receive Griff in has averaged 21.6 that. Oladipo scored a team- guard Avery Bradley, forward points, 9.3 rebounds and 4.2 high 25 points for the Pacers, Tobias Harris, centre Boban assists. Griff in’s career has who have won two in a row Marjanovic and a first and been beset by injuries. After and four of fi ve. second round pick. being drafted with the first The deal comes as a surprise pick in the NBA draft in 2009 Kemba Walker fi nished because Griff in signed a five- by the Clippers, Griff in broke with 23 points and three year contract in the off season his left kneecap, had surgery, three-pointers to lead the to stay with the Clippers. The and missed the entire 2009- Hornets, who have lost Clippers are ninth place in the 10 season. Since then, he two straight games and Western Conference with a has missed time with back four of six. record of 25-24. spasms, a torn left quad, a Griff in, a former NBA rookie broken hand, a staph infec- “Everybody contributed,” of the year, is averaging 22.6 tion, knee surgery, a broken Oladipo said. “It’s a collec- points, 7.9 rebounds and 5.4 toe, a sprained left MCL and a tive team thing. We had to assists in 33 games concussion. do a great job of playing team defence, making them work. I think we did a great job of Charlotte eventually cut tempt from three-point range that tonight.” the defi cit to single digits in was late and wide. Six players scored in dou- the fi nal minute of the con- “They put us in some Indiana Pacers guard Victor ble fi gures, including Thad- test that included 18 lead tough spots and I thought Oladipo brings the ball up court deus Young with 16 points changes. The Pacers’ next our guys battled,” said Bos- against the Charlotte Hornets and Darren Collison with game is Wednesday, when ton coach Brad Stevens. “We during the third quarter at Bankers 13. Domantas Sabonis had they host Memphis. missed some good oppor- Life Fieldhouse. PICTURE: Brian his 12th double-double this In Denver, Kyrie Irving de- tunities on offence. But we Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports season with 11 points and 10 livered 27 points and Jaylen found a way.” rebounds. “We fi nally found Brown rattled in a clutch Nikola Jokic fi nished with our groove in the fourth and three pointer with 34 sec- 24 points and 11 rebounds. wore them down,” Young onds left as the Boston Celt- Barton scored 19, Gary Harris said. ics edged the Denver Nuggets 15 and Jamal Murray 14. Kemba Walker fi nished 111-110. Mason Plumlee had 16 with 23 points and three Irving scored 10 points in points and eight rebounds three-pointers to lead the the fourth quarter and shot before he left with a leg injury Hornets, who have lost two 11-of-17 from the fi eld over- in the fourth. straight games and four of six. all for the Celtics, who won The Celtics beat Denver for Results Dwight Howard had 22 their second game in their the second time this season, points and 11 rebounds, while last seven. also winning 124-118 on De- Dallas ...... 88 Miami ...... 95 Nicolas Batum made fi ve Jayson Tatum added 20 cember 13. Atlanta ...... 105 Minnesota ...... 100 threes and fi nished with 22 points and Marcus Morris Elsewhere, Kent Bazemore Denver ...... 110 Boston ...... 111 points for Charlotte. came off the bench to score scored 22 points, including Memphis ...... 120 Phoenix ...... 109 A Turner three-pointer 14.Brown’s three pointer a tiebreaking three-pointer Milwaukee ....107 Philadelphia .....95 started a 7-0 run that ex- from the left corner turned with 2:09 remaining, and Indiana ...... 105 Charlotte ...... 96 tended the lead to 103-89 out to be the game-winning the Atlanta Hawks rallied af- with 2:46 left. That marked shot. Denver had a chance to ter trailing by 11 in the third the biggest lead of the game win in dramatic fashion at the quarter to beat the Minnesota for Indiana. end but Will Barton’s long at- Timberwolves 105-100.

SPOTLIGHT Shark circles Eagles on madcap Super Bowl Opening Night Wentz left to wonder Reuters into the anything-goes media mosh pit media do their job. It is a surreal scene Patriots quarterback was still tossed a Minneapolis was as chilling as the freezing Minne- where the giants of sports journalism couple of Hail Mary’s when one woman sota weather. rub shoulders with interlopers from the asked if he could name characters from what could have been Once a journalists-only event the world of entertainment and late-night the popular fantasy drama Game of or the New England Patriots, National Football League has trans- television. Thrones and did he know who Green the wackiness of Super Bowl formed Media Day into Opening Night, A place where super heroes, super Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodg- at Super Bowl Opening Night was routine a televised prime time question-and- models and the super annoying shout ers was dating? Fbut for the Philadelphia Eagles answer free-for-all where very little is to have their questions heard above The Eagles also got in on the fun as a Monday’s scenes, including being in- out of bounds. unimpressed NFL beat writers and television reporter dressed as a shark Reuters media from around the world, terviewed by a shark, were as bizarre “This could never get old,” said Brady, columnists. The irreverent tone of past circled his prey. Minneapolis Wentz went mostly unnoticed as they come. surrounded by a wall of cameras and Opening Nights, however, was dialled Defensive end Brandon Graham did his sitting in an empty section over- Certainly Patriots quarterback Tom reporters. “It’s amazing it gets bigger down several notches at the Xcel interview wearing a dog mask, while looking all the action. Brady and coach Bill Belichick, making every year. I remember when we just Energy Center, home of the NHL’s Min- tight end Zach Ertz was interviewed by hile his teammates The second-year quarterback, their eighth Super Bowl appearance use to go out and stand on the field for nesota Wild, on Monday, as many of the wife Julie, a midfielder and World Cup soaked up the Su- who grew up in North Dakota, together, strolled into the arena to face 45 minutes now look at this, it’s a big usual cast of cartoon characters were winner with the US women’s soccer per Bowl Opening was the face of the Eagles team reporters with a ‘been-there-done-that’ event.” not drawn to this year’s event. team. “Julie won a World Cup like two WNight spotlight, he led to an 11-2 record at the aura undaunted by anything they were Crackling fireworks and thumping Brady did not have to field any wed- years ago I need to hold up my end of injured Philadelphia Eagles time of his injury, which im- asked or saw. music provide the soundtrack as ding proposals as he had in the past or the bargain,” Ertz said. “Obviously I’ve quarterback Carson Wentz sat mediately prompted questions But for the Eagles, back in the Super thousands of gridiron-mad fans paid for take questions from an impersonator got a lot of pressure on me I don’t know alone on Monday wondering about how far they could go Bowl for the first time since 2005, diving the excitement of watching the world’s wearing a Tom Brady mask. But the how I am going to sleep at night.” what could have been if not for a without their starter. late-season knee injury. While the 25-year-old knows Wentz’s MVP-calibre season it will be tough to watch as his was cut short with a knee injury team chase their fi rst Super Bowl that forced him to take a back title, Wentz said he would do all seat to close friend Nick Foles he can to help Foles get the better and he said not being able to face of the Patriots defense. the New England Patriots on the “I don’t know many people NFL’s biggest stage on Sunday more competitive than I am, was crushing. that want to have the ball in “It’s tough knowing that their hand, want to be making The New England Patriots arrive in could be you. I had my sights the plays. So it’ll be tough, es- advance of Super Bowl LII at set on this thing since I knew we pecially when the off ense runs Minneapolis - St. Paul International weren’t making the playoff s last out on the fi eld the fi rst time,” Airport. PICTURE: Brad Rempel-USA year,” Wentz, who tore his ACL in said Wentz. TODAY Sports December, told reporters. “But I am going to be right “I had my sights set on playing there, have my headset on and in Minneapolis, it’s right down doing what I can to help Nick the road from home and it’s just and hopefully go win this thing.” meant to be and here we are. It Wentz, who said his rehabili- just looks diff erent for me.” tation was going well, also felt Unlike his Eagles team mates, not being able to play in this who were on the fl oor of the year’s Super Bowl would give arena surrounded by hordes of him an edge in his comeback. Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, January 31, 2018 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT

English football superstar’s ‘Class of 92’ four-year wait to own an MLS blueprint for franchise came to end on Monday. Miami: Beckham

AFP Beckham, along with Gary and Phil Miami Neville, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs were the cream of United’s crop and the new owner of the 25th avid Beckham wants to emu- MLS franchise wants to create some- late Manchester United’s tra- thing similar in Miami. “I have already dition of youth development had so many calls from top players and as he looks to build success of course you need to bring some su- withD his new Major League Soccer fran- perstars in,” said Beckham who stressed chise in Miami. The English football close friend Gary Neville wouldn’t be superstar was celebrating on Monday considered for a managerial role be- after his four-year wait to own an MLS cause “he talks too much.” franchise came to end in a glitzy press “There are so many names I would conference in Florida. love to bring in,” Beckham said. “We Good luck messages were beamed want to reach for the stars. to the new team’s excited “Southern Miami needs a star and that’s what we Legion” fan group from the likes of plan on doing but my dream is to create Neymar, Tom Brady, Usain Bolt and a state-of-the art academy where we Hollywood A-lister Will Smith. There have a hotbed of talent and bring kids is still no name for the team or logo, through just like we did at United. while controversy over the building of “That will make us so proud. We were a 25,000-seater stadium in Overtown, a unique group of kids who saved Unit- a deprived area of downtown Miami ed so much money over the years. We where Beckham’s ownership group all came in during 1992 and were very have purchased a plot of land which will successful. We were only successful eventually cost in excess of $25mn. because of the players we came in with A legal case against the sale of one — Roy Keane, Eric Cantona etc as well part of the land remains ongoing and as a manager like Alex Ferguson. won’t be settled until June. “This is “That’s where my experience comes a positive story,” said Beckham when in. I understand the academies where asked about appeasing those who are you save money — I am talking like an against his plans. “We want to be good owner now! — and where you bring neighbours.” these talented kids through. If you can Brand Beckham, however, is alive and do that it would be incredible. The well in South Florida and, of course, it ownership group have made it clear, my wasn’t long before player names were role is to look for the right manager. It being thrown into the mix as he took doesn’t have to be a big name. I am not questions. “Cristiano Ronaldo? You’d saying it’s not going to be but I want to have to ask him,” Beckham said when focus on the philosophy of the club and quizzed if he would be making a move the team. That’s what I want to build for the Portuguese superstar. towards.” Naturally, a team in Miami needs a Naturally, Beckham will forever big name to push ticket sales and get the be associated with Old Traff ord and marketing men interested. Yet Beck- though his eyes were fi rmly on his Mi- ham knows about the importance of ami prize, it was impossible for him to nurturing from within. The former Real escape events closer to home. Alexis Madrid midfi elder was part of the fa- Sanchez’s move from Arsenal certainly mous “Class of 92” who came through caught him on the hop. “It’s great to see the ranks at Manchester United and him in a United shirt and I’m sure he’s David Beckham addresses helped take the club on an unforget- going to be successful,” he said. “I still the crowd during the press table, trophy-laden journey under Sir fi nd it hard to believe it’s actually hap- conference announcing an Alex Ferguson. pened. It’s amazing.” MLS franchise in Miami on Monday. (AFP)

ROUND-UP FOCUS Monaco insist Lemar not leaving Sixth Workers’ Cup from Friday QNA nal on March 23. tions, highlighted the growing onaco will not let sought-after this season, will miss Juventus’ Champions Doha General admission for the popularity of the event, which midfi elder Thomas Lemar leave League last 16 fi rst leg game against English opening Workers’ Cup match is shows its “positive impact” on the club before the end of the club Tottenham in Turin on February 13. free and everyone is welcome to the local community. season, the vice-president of the he sixth edition of the attend and cheer on the com- “This makes me proud. We Mreigning French champions said on Monday. Workers’ Cup, the an- peting teams. The tournament’s look forward to the new version LEFT-OUT BEN ARFA FEELS Vadim Vasilyev was asked in an interview HE DOESN’T EXIST ANYMORE AT PSG nual football tourna- draw took place at Movenpick of the tournament which is a if he could “100% guarantee that Thomas Having not played a single game with Paris ment organised by the Al Aziziya Hotel on Jan. 24. way to give all sport fans in the Lemar will stay at Monaco until the end of St Germain this season, former France for- TQatar Stars League (QSL) and “We’re as proud as ever to Qatari community the oppor- the season.” ward Hatem Ben Arfa says he has the feeling sponsored by the Supreme be supporting another edition tunity to play football, whether The Russian answered “yes”. Lemar, 22, he ‘does not exist’ anymore. The 30-year-old Committee for Delivery and of the Workers’ Cup and are all to keep healthy, to meet new has a contract until 2020 but he has been joined from Nice in 2016 but after featur- Legacy (SC), will kick off on Fri- eagerly anticipating the kick off friends, or to test their football linked with a move to the Premier League ing 23 times in Ligue 1 last season, he has day at Al Duhail SC Stadium. of the fi rst game on Feb. 2,” SC skills,” al-Kuwari said. this month, with Arsenal and Liverpool said been dumped into the reserves this term and This year’s edition will see Communications Director Fat- Last year’s opening ceremo- to be especially keen. The January transfer his lawyer even threatened legal action last over 640 players compete in 32 ma al-Nuaimi said of this year’s ny and match attracted more window closes at midnight today. September. teams representing diff erent edition of the tournament. than 5,000 fans to Qatar Sports Arsenal reportedly off ered around 100mn third, but 12 points behind leaders Paris “What I’m going through at PSG is very companies in Qatar, including “We’re hoping the 2018 edi- Club, whilst the fi nal fi xture of euros (£90mn, $124mn) for the France inter- Saint-Germain. Only the top three qualify complicated, I have the feeling I don’t exist,” 12 former and current contrac- tion will be as eff ective as previ- the tournament attracted over national just before the last transfer window for next season’s Champions League. Ben Arfa said. “You have to learn to live with tors engaged on 2022 World Cup ous tournaments have been at 10,000 fans representing the closed in August, but Monaco rejected that that. At some point, my life as a footballer projects and seven teams en- enhancing team spirit amongst various companies participat- off er. Vasilyev also rejected suggestions that JUVENTUS' CUADRADO OUT FOR will come to an end, there will be other test- gaged with the SC’s Generation workers and providing them ing in the tournament. The Brazilian midfi elder Fabinho could depart. MONTH AFTER SURGERY ing times, like sickness. But learning not to Amazing programme. The open- with a platform to practice annual tournament aims to Fabinho had wanted a transfer last sum- Colombian winger Juan Cuadrado has been exist anymore after feeling like you existed ing match pits Gulf Contracting sport in a competitive and pro- promote a culture of sport and mer when Paris Saint-Germain were inter- ruled out for at least a month after undergo- after what you had done before, it’s hard.” Company team (SC contractor) fessional setting that encour- healthy lifestyles in the com- ested, but Monaco refused to let him go then. ing surgery on a groin injury, Italian champi- After leaving Hull City in January, 2015, against Shapoorji Pallonji (Gen- ages them to adopt healthy life- munity of migrant workers en- It seems likely that both will be allowed to go ons Juventus said yesterday. The 29-year-old Ben Arfa joined Nice for the 2015-16, scor- eration Amazing programme’s styles,” al-Nuaimi added. gaged in various projects across in the next close season. was operated on in Munich for a “longstand- ing 17 goals from 34 league matches. He has company). The tournament will Hassan Rabiah al-Kuwari, the State of Qatar, especially Monaco are currently fourth in Ligue 1, a ing groin problem”, the club said. scored two goals from 15 caps with France continue for eight weeks, before QSL acting executive director those related to the infrastruc- point behind Lyon in second and Marseille in Cuadrado, who has scored four times between 2007-15. concluding with a showpiece fi - of marketing and communica- ture of the 2022 World Cup.

BOTTOMLINE Murky Bakambu deal puts China transfer tax to the test AFP foreigners, said it would slap a 100% tax the CFA risks other clubs also fl outing the to the Chinese capital on a free transfer. Shanghai on incoming transfers worth over 45mn rules and could lose control.” Since then the CFA, the player and yuan ($7mn). Underlining its commitment to the Guoan have kept largely quiet, although The surcharge would supposedly go into 100% tax rule, after the winter transfer the club — coached by the German Roger edric Bakambu’s protracted a fund for improving grassroots football in window opened in China on January 1, Schmidt — previously said that Bakambu 40-million-euro move from Vil- China. The unprecedented move had its the CFA warned that it would not stand left Villarreal “for personal reasons” and larreal to Beijing Guoan is a litmus desired eff ect and last summer’s trans- for any “loophole-exploiting behaviour”. have pleaded ignorance about any deal. test of Chinese football’s 100% fer window fi zzled out in China, the only It also warned Chinese clubs to avoid en- Compounding the confusion, Guoan transferC tax and could have ramifi cations major arrival to the CSL being the striker gaging in “a bidding war”, amid numerous then released photos last week of Bakam- from Spain to England and beyond. Anthony Modeste on a two-year loan deal reports that CSL champions Guangzhou bu training with them in Portugal, but Two weeks after the French-born Con- to Tianjin Quanjian from Cologne. Evergrande had trumped Guoan to the declined to say more. On Friday a report golese striker declared that he was leaving The arrangement allowed Tianjin to 72-million-euro acquisition of Pierre- quoted a fi gure close to Bakambu as say- La Liga for the riches of the Chinese Super avoid shelling out twice the amount — and Emerick Aubameyang. ing that Guoan provided the funds to buy League (CSL), Guoan have yet to offi cially now Guoan appear to be trying to do like- Evergrande quickly denied they were in himself out of his contract at Villarreal. announce his signature and the deal is wise, albeit by another method. Ji Zhe, di- for the Borussia Dortmund striker, who Bruno Leveel, who works with Bakambu mired in uncertainty and confusion. rector at London-based sports marketing now appears set for Premier League side on image-related contracts, said he ex- Experts and Chinese media say the club fi rm Red Lantern and an expert in Chinese Arsenal instead. But Guoan seem deter- pected the deal to go through by the end of is likely in talks with the Chinese Foot- football, said the CFA were in a precarious mined to snare a foreign forward. Reports last weekend — but it never did. ball Association (CFA) about pushing the position. “There’s no telling what might be in Spain and France soon emerged saying Then on Monday, adding to the sense of transfer through without having to pay the happening now: there could be haggling that 40mn euros had been paid — it is un- farce, Bakambu played for and scored for CFA’s punishing levy. In May last year the with the CFA, they might strike a deal and clear by whom — to free Bakambu from his Guoan in a friendly against the Swedish CFA, worried about an infl ux of well-paid sweep it under the carpet,” said Ji. “If so, Villarreal contract, allowing him to move side Norrkoping. Gulf Times Wednesday, January 31, 2018 7 FOOTBALL

TRANSFER TALK SPOTLIGHT Cahill Giroud to join Chelsea, backs Conte AFP unlock Aubameyang’s London

helsea captain Gary Ca- hill has insisted that he and his fellow players have “no idea” about AntonioC Conte’s future at the Arsenal transfer Premier League champions as they prepare to take on Bourne- mouth today. The Italian led the Manchester City complete signing of defender Laporte for club record £57mn from Athletic Bilbao Blues to last season’s league title in his fi rst season in charge, but The Guardian he has been surrounded by spec- London ulation since the summer, with reports of a split between the club and coach over Chelsea’s livier Giroud is primed to join transfer policy. Chelsea from Arsenal in a deal “It is between the manager worth £17.5mn, which will and the board. We have no idea pave the way for Pierre-Em- about that, we have no idea erickO Aubameyang to move from Borus- what’s going on between the sia Dortmund to Arsenal. Michy Batsh- lines,” the England centre-back uayi is set to complete the interlocking told reporters. “I have experi- transfers with a loan from Chelsea to enced it a lot in my time here, but Dortmund. this has been a successful period. Dortmund gave Aubameyang per- Chelsea is a successful football mission to travel to London yesterday club and he is a top manager. We in order to undergo a medical at Arse- can’t have any impact.” nal and complete the fi ner details of a Third-placed Chelsea are 15 deal that is valued at £60mn. But they points behind runaway leaders had made it clear that they would not Manchester City and Conte re- sign off on the transfer until they had mains under pressure but Cahill sourced a replacement. insists he still has the backing of Chelsea have wanted to offl oad all the players. “Of course we are Batshuayi but they, too, had refused to 100 per cent behind him. There do so without a replacement – a player is nothing between the manager to lighten the load on the fi rst-choice and players, whatsoever,” he said centre-forward, Alvaro Morata. They “If Manchester City hadn’t turned to Giroud and he is set to smooth done what they’ve done, the ti- the wheels of the deals. tle would still be there to be won. Chelsea resumed negotiations with This season they’ve been fan- Arsenal over the France striker yester- tastic, but we still aim to fi ght day morning and there has now been a for second place. We have a big breakthrough. Giroud had been touted month coming up... let’s hope as a makeweight in Arsenal’s deal with Arsenal’s (from left) Nacho Monreal, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Olivier Giroud arrive before the Premier League match against Swansea City yesterday. (Reuters) we come out at the end of that Dortmund for Aubameyang but he pre- month in a positive way.” ferred to remain in London. However, Guardiola understood to be keen on failed to produce a move. Earlier this for Athletic Bilbao defender Laporte, has been frustrated at continually being Giroud was named by manager Arsene adding the Algeria international to his month Leicester’s manager, Claude eclipsing the £55mn they paid for Kevin overlooked by senior team coach Didier Wenger on bench in last night’s Arse- squad after it emerged Leroy Sane will Puel, said it would take a bid of £100mn De Bruyne in 2015. Deschamps. nal’s game against Swansea in the Pre- be sidelined for at least 11 matches. to persuade them to sell. The 23-year-old is also the second mier League. Giroud’s priority has been After missing out on Alexis Sanchez, Guardiola’s change of heart appears most expensive defender in history LIVERPOOL'S STURRIDGE JOINS to enjoy greater playing opportunity be- Guardiola has identifi ed the PFA Player to have been triggered by the news that behind Virgil van Dijk, who cost Liv- WEST BROM ON LOAN fore the World Cup fi nals, having started of the Year for the 2015-16 season as an Sane is expected to be out until the end erpool £75mn from Southampton ear- Elsewhere, Liverpool striker Daniel only one Premier League game for Ar- alternative, with the 26-year-old un- of March after suff ering an ankle injury lier this month. “I am very happy to be Sturridge, 28, left Anfi eld for strug- senal all season – following the club’s derstood to be keen on moving to the in Saturday’s FA Cup win at Cardiff City. here,” Laporte said in a statement on gling West Brom on a loan deal until the £52.7m signing of Alexandre Lacazette Etihad Stadium. But despite reports in After the 2-0 win the manager said he Manchester City’s website. “City are a end of the season after slipping down from Lyon last summer. Giroud will France yesterday that City have sub- expected Sane would be out for a month club with a lot of ambition and they are the pecking order under Jurgen Klopp. back himself in what promises to be a mitted a bid of €68mn for Mahrez, due to a horrifi c Joe Bennett challenge one of the best teams in Europe. I am Barcelona winger Gerard Deulofeu has fi ght for minutes with Morata. The fee Leicester say they are yet to receive a for which the defender later apologised. looking forward to working under Pep become Javi Gracia’s fi rst signing as for Giroud is inclusive of add-ons. formal off er and are not keen on selling Meanwhile Manchester City have made Guardiola and trying to help the club to Watford manager after arriving at Vic- the player they bought from Le Havre Eliaquim Mangala available for loan, achieve success.” arage Road on loan until the end of the LEICESTER TELL CITY IT WILL for £450,000 in 2014. with Valencia, West Ham and Newcas- Guardiola has now spent more than campaign. TAKE ‘MIND-BLOWING’ OFFER Mahrez could now attempt to force tle all interested in the France defender. £200mn on reinforcing his defence, Celtic have signed Chelsea midfi elder TO SIGN MAHREZ their hands by making a transfer re- Meanwhile, Manchester City com- bringing in Laporte alongside Benjamin Charly Musonda on an 18-month loan Manchester City have been told it will quest, although that is unlikely to be pleted the signing of Aymeric Laporte. Mendy (£52mn), John Stones (£47.5mn) deal, with left-back Baba Rahman de- take a “mind-blowing” off er to sign well received at the King Power Sta- Premier League leaders City are re- and Kyle Walker (£45mn). A France in- parting Stamford Bridge for Schalke in Riyad Mahrez from Leicester, with Pep dium after a similar tactic last summer ported to have paid a club record £57mn ternational at all youth levels, Laporte a similar arrangement.

Election farce mirrors PREMIER LEAGUE state of Italian game Rome: Italian football plunged ing “a FIGC own goal” and ‘Fiery Sanchez can spark United’ further into crisis two months Gazzetta dello Sport calling it after the country’s dramatic a “defeat for football”. “It’s a AFP ed his own locker in the United changing room next World Cup exit with the failure black page, the failure of Italian London to two specifi c players. The pair on either side of the to elect a new federation chief football,” commented Juventus Chilean are Rashford and Jesse Lingard, and Mour- amid scenes of chaos in Rome. general manager Giuseppe inho is reportedly behind the decision. It is believed “We’ve managed to do worse Marotta. nder Herrera claims Alexis Sanchez’s fi ght- that Mourinho wants Sanchez’s positive attitude to than the national side elimi- The failure to elect a presi- ing spirit has already ignited Manchester work to rub off on the youngsters. nated from the World Cup, and dent will almost certainly mean United as the Chile forward prepares to Michael Carrick, who captained United against that’s a diff icult feat to achieve,” that the FIGC will be placed un- make his Premier League debut for his new Yeovil on his fi rst appearance since September, has clubA at Tottenham today. seen plenty of stars come and go in his 12 years at Old said Italy’s former Ballon d’Or der the guardianship of the Ital- winner Gianni Rivera. The Ital- ian Olympic Committee (CONI) Sanchez is the highest paid player in the Premier Traff ord. The former England midfi elder was quick ian football federation’s (FIGC) president Giovanni Malago who League after making a blockbuster move to Unit- to hail Sanchez’s signing as a coup as he labelled the general assembly on Monday has called an extraordinary ed from Spurs’ local rivals Arsenal last week. The fl amboyant playmaker a perfect United star. night was a replica of the chaos meeting tomorrow. 29-year-old marked his debut by setting up two “He is not bad is he? Not bad for a little man,” Car- in the San Siro last November The situation has been goals in United’s 4-0 beating of minnows Yeovil in rick said. “He is going to be a terrifi c player, he is a when four-time champions complicated further by the ap- the FA Cup fourth round on Friday. proper Manchester United player, and it’s great to Italy realised that they would proach of the Winter Olympics Sanchez paraded his sublime skills to lay on strikes have him here. He is so exciting and so dynamic. He’s miss the World Cup finals for in Pyeongchang. “November for Marcus Rashford and Herrera, but it wasn’t just always looking to create opportunities, to play for- the first time in 60 years. 10th and January 29th are two his deft touch that impressed his United teammates. ward and the fans are going to enjoy watching him, Of the three candidates to re- turning points,” said Gravina. Despite criticism of his attitude in the latter stages of hopefully we will enjoy playing with him.” place Carlo Tavecchio as FIGC “We have shown that there his spell with Arsenal, Spain midfi elder Herrera says Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino has warned his president, only former Italy and is an urgent need... to admit Sanchez’s grit and desire have rubbed off on his new Tottenham players that he is ready to act in the fi - Roma player Damiano Tomma- defeat and entrust the revival colleagues and are certain to prove a huge asset. nal days of the January transfer window. Pochettino si, 41, looked to have the profile of football to third parties. Foot- “What I really like from him is the way he fi ghts suggested recently Tottenham, who have not signed to off er the promised change ball needs a reform, a change when the team loses the ball,” Herrera said. “He’s a player in the winter window since Dele Alli in 2015, needed in Italian football. But of political weight and to find always ready to be the fi rst defender for the team, would not recruit in January. But after surviving an he trailed in support behind support from CONI and the and that’s big for us. FA Cup scare to draw 1-1 at lowly Newport, Pochet- Amateur league boss Cosimo government.” Obviously we know his tino admitted Tottenham are considering making a Sibilia, 58, and the president of The guardianship would quality on the ball, he’s move before the window closes today. “Of course we the third-tier Lega Pro division be a first since 2006 and the amazing, but his fi ght, have some options,” Pochettino said.”We are going Gabriele Gravina, 64. Calciopoli match-fixing scandal the way he defends, he’s in the last few days to see if we can add players that The election campaign that rocked Serie A and Serie B the fi rst player to de- add good quality. “If not then it won’t happen. But turned into one of horse trad- and could last between six and fend. I really like it.” it’s about in the next few days to see if we have some ing, Tommasi refused to play 18 months, according to the United manager Jose possibilities with some players.” ball and four long rounds of Italian press. The state of Italian Mourinho, whose sec- Tottenham, who are fi fth, two points behind voting proved fruitless. Tom- elite football is now worrying, ond placed side are 12 fourth-placed Liverpool in the race to qualify for masi was eliminated before as shown by the inability of points behind leaders next season’s Champions League, have been linked the final round with Gravina clubs to agree on a name for Manchester City, clear- with Paris St Germain winger Lucas Moura. Asked getting 39.06% of the vote, the presidency of the League ly agrees with Herrera specifi cally about Moura, Pochettino replied: Sibilia 1.85%, with 59.09% blank and the diff iculty of selling TV about Sanchez’s cata- “There’s a lot of rumours about diff erent players and ballots. rights for Serie A. lyst qualities. Sanchez I never talk about rumours. “But we’ll see what hap- “This day mirrors the state of Italian football is without a has now been designat- pens in the last few days.” Italian football at the moment,” president for both the FIGC and said Tommasi. “We didn’t have top division Serie A and has no the courage to start on the path national team coach, following of change. I hope that after Gian Piero Ventura’s dismissal reflection it will be realised that post-World Cup failure. But the change is necessary.” situation of club football in Italy The Italian press were harsh looks healthier with reigning in their criticism, with Corriero champions Juventus, currently dello Sport blasting a “farce”, in a close battle with Serie A Turin daily Tuttosport lament- leaders Napoli for the title.

Wednesday, January 31, 2018 GULF TIMES SPORT

FOCUS Sixth Qatar squash FIFA technical experts’ tour to kick off seminar opens in Doha today QNA Doha QNA come a major sporting hub in football Doha and has hosted many major events as the countdown for the World Cup 2022 con- he main round of tinues. He expressed gratitude for FIFA’s sixth Qatar Squash he FIFA Technical Experts’ Work- eff orts to develop the game and unleash TTour, which is shop, hosted by Qatar Football its potential. organised by Qatar Tennis, Association (QFA) over four days For his part, FIFA technical director Squash and Badminton at Intercontinental Hotel, opened Steven Martens said that the workshops Federation, will kick off Tyesterday with the participation of 100 include a lot of discussions about the today at Khalifa Interna- people from all over the world. development of FIFA regulations, which tional Tennis and Squash Next week will be busy too with the will benefi t the administrative and Complex. The round launch of FIFA seminars and lectures for technical cadres in Qatar, especially for will run until February 3 the match offi cials of World Cup Russia young people. with the participation of 2018 and Women’s World Cup France He added that it is natural to have such numerous players from 2019. The seminars and courses will be an event in a country like Qatar prepar- diff erent countries. held under the supervision of FIFA’s ing to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The tournament is one referees committee chairman Pierluigi Martens pointed out his aspiration to of the most important Collina and FIFA’s head of refereeing fi nd out more about the completed fa- international events on Massimo Busacca. cilities after the end of the FIFA sessions. the calendar of the Qatari QFA referees committee chief and The FIFA technical director praised federation, especially as FIFA’s referees committee vice chairman Qatar’s great role and thanked them for it organises the tourna- Hani Balan will also take part in the sem- QFA secretary-general Mansour al-Ansari, FIFA technical director Steven Martens and QFA Development Department Director hospitality. He said that Qatar hosted ment in co-operation with inar along with Naji Juwaini, QFA execu- Fahd Thani pose for a photo with all the participants of the FIFA Technical Experts’ Workshop yesterday. a lot of major sports events and a large the Professional Squash tive director of the referees committee. number of offi cials, noting that this Association (PSA), and The two are licensed FIFA experts. discussing future plans and activities of is not strange, especially given all the through which it provides The second seminar will be for arena FIFA 2.0 and FIFA’s Forward Football De- amenities and facilities. strong competition for referees and video referees, who will take velopment Programme. Throughout the He noted that FIFA appreciates the Qatari players against charge of World Cup 2018 matches, and week, around 100 technical experts will great work Qatar is doing and pointed leading players from will see the participation of 37 referees benefi t from both technical and theoret- out that there will be mutual missions to diff erent schools. These from February 5-9. ical activities, while having the opportu- ensure that the World Cup in Qatar will tournaments also give a The third course will be for female ref- nity to discuss new trends and programs be a unique event in the Middle East. great chance for the play- erees, who are nominated to offi ciate the in the football world.” QFA Development Department Direc- ers to gain points in the Women’s World Cup 2019. It will run from The QFA secretary general added that tor Fahd Thani thanked FIFA for organ- international rankings. February 12-16. The fourth course will be hosting the event refl ects Qatar’s com- ising this event in Qatar. He noted that Tournament director Saad for referees’ experts with the participation mitment in the region and the world to these courses will contribute signifi - al-Mohannadi said the of 100 experts from February 19-22. positively contribute to the development cantly to the exchange of experiences at competition is a main tool QFA secretary-general Mansour al- of technical capacities. the highest level through the develop- in the development of Ansari opened the fi rst seminar yester- “Hosting the FIFA Technical Experts’ ment of age groups coaches and players young Qatari players as it day by welcoming the participants. Workshop demonstrates QFA’s commit- as well as the development of various provides the best chances Al-Ansari welcomed the participants ment to play an important role in the re- sectors working in the fi eld of football. of coming against leading to Doha on behalf of QFA, its president gion and the world in contributing directly Thani said he is participating with international players. and executive director, expressing Qatar’s and positively to the development of foot- elite experts and has been accepted as an Al-Mohannadi pointed pride to host the course that brings togeth- ball and its’ technical experts,” he said. international lecturer at FIFA. out that the Qatari team er several experts from all over the world. “This is further proven by the various This is the fi rst time in the history participating in the tourna- He added: “It brings me great pleas- upcoming FIFA workshops hosted here of FIFA that such a number of referee ment consists off three ure to welcome you all to the opening in Doha throughout the month of Febru- courses takes place in one country in players; Hamad al-Ameri, ceremony of the FIFA Technical Experts’ QFA secretary-general Mansour al-Ansari (right) presents a memento to FIFA ary that will be tailored for the referees one calendar year, a major achievement Sayed Azlan and Omair Za- Workshop, which witnesses football technical director Steven Martens yesterday. who will be taking part at the 2018 FIFA for Qatar, QFA and Qatari refereeing. It man. He expressed hope technical experts gathered from all over World Cup Russia, the FIFA Women’s is also not the fi rst time that Qatar has that the Qatari players will the world to discuss and share their ising this function and for planning this continuous development.” World Cup France 2019 and Referee As- hosted special sessions for FIFA referees. achieve good results in the knowledge and expertise. would like to event, which I am convinced will be ex- “We are pleased to host you here dur- sessors .” Qatar previously hosted sessions for the tournament. thank FIFA and those involved in organ- tremely valuable for the football family’s ing the next few days, where you will be Al-Ansari noted that Qatar has be- referees of World Cup Brazil 2014.

AL KASS INTERNATIONAL CUP Aspire Football Dreams too strong for Madrid

By Sports Reporter iser when his fi erce cross-shot squirmed Doha under Kubi’s body and crept over the line. French, Tunisian ambassadors The Spanish striker had looked marginally off side as he latched on to the through ball, enjoy Al Kass action spire Football Dreams ran out de- but the goal stood. serving 3-1 winners against Real There was no controversy about AFD’s By Sports Reporter “I am always impressed by the Madrid in an engrossing clash second, however, which arrived ten min- Doha organisation and the quality of between two of the strongest utes later. Aspire’s forwards worked the the teams,” Chevallier enthused. squadsA at Al Kass 2018 to clinch the fi fth ball across the edge of Real’s area from “Really, Mabrook, I think it’s spot. right to left, and Isaac Nuhu arrived late to efore a capacity crowd really good. What is important The teams had met earlier in the tour- stroke a splendid fi rst-time curler into the at Aspire Zone, Paris also is to support the football nament, sharing the spoils in a 1-1 group far corner from 18 yards. BSaint Germain beat Es- played by young players.” game. Both sides were unlucky to have had With 20 minutes remaining, Madrid perance Sportive de Tunis 4-2 Recognising the importance their progress curtailed at the quarter-fi - coach Manuel Fernandez sacrifi ced mid- in the first semi-final of the Al of the tournament, Chevallier nal stage, with Football Dreams going out fi elder Jorge Camunas for right-sided for- Kass International Cup 2018 added: “It helps to promote on penalties to PSG, and Real falling victim ward Alex Mendoza as Los Blancos sought on Monday. Amongst those football amongst the youth, to the now-familiar smash-and-grab tac- a way back into the game. watching were French ambas- and this is also an opportunity tics of Kashiwa Reysol. Aspire held fi rm in the face of intense sador to Qatar, Eric Chevallier, for the young Qataris who are All in all, it meant that there was little waves of pressure, and added a third with and Tunisian ambassador to playing at Aspire to be part of left to play for but pride in this encounter. fi ve minutes remaining, when Umar Lutalo Qatar, Salah al-Salhi, and they this event, and improve the So it was a credit to all concerned that this rose highest – and unchallenged – to head were treated to a fabulous quality of their football.” game quickly developed into a highly com- home a corner from the left. spectacle. With Qatar set to host the FIFA petitive aff air. Outfought at every turn, Real’s frustra- “We came together, the 2022 World Cup, the Al Kass Initially, there was little to choose be- tion now boiled over, and Javier Lancho ambassadors of Tunisia and International Cup provides tween the teams, but Aspire were soon in was shown a straight red card – the fi rst of France, because we are sup- an exciting showcase for the the ascendancy, and took a deserved lead Aspire Football Dreams players celebrate their win over Real Madrid. PICTURES: Jayaram the tournament – after a crude two-footed porting football first, and we nation’s ability to host pres- on 25 minutes. Real’s Julio Escorcia was challenge on Djakaria Barro. are supporting this excellent tigious international sports somewhat casual in attempting to play the cover possession, hacked down Sibiry Kei- Garcia latched onto a cross on the edge of Ultimately, Football Dreams ran out tournament,” Chevallier said, events, and for its participants ball out from the back, and was charged ta as he advanced into the area. The referee the six-yard area, but he wafted the ball worthy winners, securing fi fth place at Al emphasising camaraderie to excel in a highly competi- down by Salim Diaby inside the area. The awarded a penalty, but Keita’s kick was too over the bar under pressure from AFD Kass 2018 in a match that would have made over competitiveness. How- tive environment. attack-minded midfi elder then squared close to keeper Toni Ribera, who made a keeper Appiah Kubi. for a great fi nal. Indeed, it says much about ever, this did not stop him “It helps everybody in the for Christian Otabil to convert the sim- routine save to keep the score at 1-0. Madrid upped the tempo as the sec- the professionalism of both sides that they from celebrating when PSG world to understand that plest of chances. Aspire kept the pressure up, but Real ond half got underway, belatedly asking approached this fi xture with complete fo- scored their fourth goal. Qatar is serious in its com- Escorcia was again at fault on the half almost grabbed an equaliser against the questions of the AFD backline. And, on cus and determination, despite there be- Al-Salhi concurred, stating, “It mitment to football,” said hour when he slipped and, in trying to re- run of play on 42 minutes. Striker Cristian 55 minutes, Juan Latasa struck an equal- ing little at stake. is a very big sporting event, Chevallier. “It’s also important and you see that the level of for these young players, as the game, and the level of the they need to understand that organisation of the event, is football is something which is Milan beat Aspire Academy on penalties to take seventh spot very high.” shared by diff erent people.” As the only overseas team to The VIP attendees were clearly By Sports Reporter lead at this stage, having dominated pos- have competed in each edition impressed by the footballing Doha session and kept Aspire largely confined of the Al Kass International fiesta, and by the calibre of to their own half. Cup, PSG are well versed in young talent on display. “My As the second half commenced, Aspire negotiating the unique chal- only regret is that I’m too old C Milan defeated Aspire Academy upped their game as they sought a route lenges of the event. to play!” joked Chevallier. 5-4 on penalties to take in a low-key back into the match, and a chance ar- Aencounter that finished 1-1 in normal rived on the hour, when Ahmed Alganehi time, giving the Italian side seventh place was upended 25 yards from goal in a cen- in the Al Kass International Cup. tral position. The classy forward picked Milan were almost ahead on seven min- himself up and took the resultant free utes when Daniel Maldini found space kick, producing a magnificent eff ort that inside the area to the left of goal, but his curled into the left corner, leaving keeper powerful rising shot was beaten away by Niccolo’ Zanellato with no chance. Mahmoud Abunada. The young keeper, There was nothing to separate the who has been in fine form throughout Al sides at full time, and a penalty shoot- Kass 2018, then showed great awareness AC Milan goalkeeper Niccolo Zanellato makes a save during the match against Aspire out ensued. The first five kicks were all to deny Riccardo Tonin from close range. Academy yesterday. converted, and then Zanellato saved As the game reached the midway point well from Aspire’s Mohamed al-Naimi. It of the first half, Milan were playing the However, on 27 minutes, they were tussled for possession in the area. Tonin’s meant that Tonin, with Milan’s fifth, was more composed football, stringing a awarded a penalty when Aspire midfielder hard and low spot kick went straight down required to repeat his feat from earlier in French ambassador to Qatar, Eric Chevallier (left) and Tunisian series of intelligent moves together but Naif Alhadhrami was adjudged to have the middle, and Milan were in front. the game to secure victory, which he did ambassador, Salah al-Salhi, watch the Al Kass semi-final between still lacking a cutting edge up front. shoved Riccardo Martimbianco as they The Italians were good value for their with a minimum of fuss. PSG and Esperance Sportive de Tunis on Monday.