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THURSDAY 28 JANUARY 2021 RafaelR Nadal and Serena Williams support stricts COVID-19 protocols in Australia The world is suffering in general, so we can’t complain (about strict healthheal measures). You have to stay a little more positive. I feel that we areara e privilegedp people today, having the chance to keep doing our jobs.

Rafael Nadal Sport |09 NHL: Buffalo 3-2 NY Rangers; Philadelphia 5-3 New Jersey; Washington 3-2 NY Islanders; Florida 4-3 Columbus; Boston 3-2 Pittsburgh Amir Cup: Al Sailiya and Al Arabi We played a great complete quarter-final line-up game against THE PENINSULA – DOHA Muaither: Xavi Al Sailiya and Al Arabi yesterday clinched victories in their THE PENINSULAPENINS – DOHA respective Round of 16 matches to complete the quarter-final AlAl Sadd hhead coach Xavi Hernandez line-up for the Amir Cup 2021. (pictured)(pictured expressed his delight after At Grand Hamad Stadium, hishis side’side’ss big 7-0 win over Muaither Mohanad Ali netted a brace (9, inin thethe RRoundo of 16 of the 2021 Amir 35) while Tiago Bezerra (35) and CCupup on WWednesday. Ahmed Al Minhali (90+3) also DuriDuringn a post-match press con- were on target as Al Sailiya ference,ference Xavi said his players lived rallied to beat Al Khor 4-2 to Umm Salal's Ismail up to his expectations. advance in ’s most Ebrahim Dahqani “We played a great game popular tournament. and Al Arabi's new against Muaither as we have Al Khor’s goals were scored signing Youssef been doing recently. The by (4) and Msakni vie for the young players were up to Rafael Vaz (77). ball during their Amir the responsibility and In yesterday’s clash, Al Cup pre-quarter-final showed a great level – Sailiya made a quick recovery match yesterday. Bahaa, Hashim, Yousuf, in after a penalty strike by Greek PICTURE: RAJAN additiona to Ali Asad and winger Fetfatzidis who gave VADAKKEMURIYIL SalemSa Al Hajri who were all them an early lead. excellent.”exc Just five minutes later, Al OnO Tuesday, Al Sadd wel- Sailiya leveled through Ali who best once again in the 35th goal, leaving the opponents comedcome their regular goalkeeper scored goal with a stunning minute as Al Sailiya took a shell-shocked. However, Al Saad AAl Dosari who missed a header following a long pass commanding 3-1 lead before Khor maintained the lead and numbernumbe of games for his team due made by Nadir Belhaj. the breather. did not allow anymore surprises to an injury setback. Xavi was Bezerra made it 2-1 in Upon resumption, Vaz beat before Al Minhali sealed the delighteddelight to see the champion goal- favour of Al Sailiya after Al Sailiya goalkeeper with a deal for Al Sailiya with an keeperkeeper back in action. taking advantage of a corner brilliant kick from 25 yards injury-time goal to reach the “I amam delighted with the return kick by belhaj. Ali was at his away to earn Al Khor’s second quarters. of SaadSaad Al Dosari to the team. We havehave 2525 players who are at an excellentexcellent level and every player who playsplays deservesdes to wear the Al Sadd jersey. WeW also have the U-23 team whichwhich hashas great players and is on top ROUND OF 16 ofof ttheirheir leagueleag now,” Xavi said. Yesterday’s Results TheThe jubilantjubil Spaniard also said his team focusesfocuses more on attacking. Al Sailiya 4-2 Al Khor “Al Sadd isis an attacking team and we Al Arabi 2-1 Umm Salal focusfocus on thatthat in our work. We are going throughthrough our bestb moments now, having reachedreached thethe quarter-finalsqu of the Amir Cup Elsewhere, at Qatar SCC andand totoppingpping the QSL,” the Barca great Stadium, Al Arabi defeatedd referredreferred to theth incredible season which Umm Salal 2-1. thethe WolvesWolves arear enjoying. The Dream Team’s victoryy Al SaSadddd willwi next face Al Gharafa for a was propelled by Yasser Abou-- placeplace in thethe semi-finals.se baker Isa (28) and Mehrdadd AsAs for pplayinglay Al Gharafa in the quar- Mohammadi (84). terfinals,terfinals, ttheh coach said: “Facing Al Lawrence Quaye scored thee GharafaGharafa is likeli an early final, because Action during only goal for Umm Salal. theythey are ononee of the 3 best teams in the yesterday's match Al Duhail, Al Shamal, All league.league. TheyThey have good players and a between Al Sailiya Kharaitiyat, Al Sadd, Al Rayyann greatgreat coaccoach,h, aand it’s going to be difficult and Al Khor. PICTURE: and Al Gharafa also advancedd to faceface them.them. WWe need to prepare in a spe- HUSSEIN SAYED after wins in their respectivee cialisedcialised way,way, especially as our goal is to Round of 16 matches. reachreach tthehe final.”fina Insurers face ‘mind-blowingly’ Sweden, Denmark cruise into semi-finals THE PENINSULA – DOHA IHF WORLD Qatari and large loss if Tokyo Swedish players Four-time champions Sweden CHAMPIONSHIP in action during Games cancelled yesterday defeated Asian giants Qatar QUARTER-FINALS yesterday's 35-23 to make it to the semi-finals of Denmark 39-38 Egypt IHF Handball REUTERS – LONDON the IHF World Championships in Sweden 35-23 Qatar Championship Cairo, yesterday. quarter-final Insurers are facing a $2-3bn loss if the At the Cairo Stadium Hall, the Spain 31-26 Norway match in Cairo, Tokyo Olympics are cancelled this year, Swedes took no time to assert their Egypt. amounting to the largest ever claim in dominance early on, but not before the global event cancellation market, Qatar kept things square for around brokers say. 15 minutes before the European side With less than six months until the ran away, taking a 14:10 lead into the Games are due to start, the compe- second period. tition will top the agenda when the Qatar fell apart in the second International Olympic Committee’s period, allowing in 21 goals while (IOC) executive board meets this scoring only 13 as Frankis Marzo - still week. tournament top scorer - failed to reach The Olympic body, which will the heights he has over the past few meet remotely, finds itself in a similar matches although he did score five situation to March last year, when it goals. The Swedes had Lukas Pellas postponed the Games by 12 months as and Valter Chrintz both on eight goals the COVID-19 pandemic shut down come the final whistle. sport worldwide. Player of the match was chosen as Much of Japan is now under a state keeper Andreas Palicka, who made a of emergency due to a third wave of number of fine saves throughout. COVID-19 infections. Sweden will now contest the semi- The IOC and Japanese organisers final, while Qatar stand to get a Denmark only taking the front foot on as both sides attempted to gain the difference at two goals for much of it have been adamant that another post- 5th-8th place. 18 minutes as both sides spent some upper hand, with some of the period with Egypt limited to sneaking in con- ponement isn’t an option. Earlier, defending world cham- time with horns locked in a draw. spent by Denmark playing catch up solations. A final 7m throw converted So it appears more likely the Games pions Denmark needed a double The Danes eventually broke away as Egypt held on to their slender lead. by Sanad gave the Egyptians the draw would have to be cancelled, rather than extra-time and a penalty shoot-out to with the lead towards the end of the With the final five minutes of the that took them to the second two postponed again, if they weren’t able to beat host nation Egypt in a highly dra- first 30 minutes. Egypt's Mohamed El match, Denmark took the lead for the periods. Denmark's Mikkel Hansen go ahead in Tokyo this summer. matic and entertaining match. Tayar had a number of saves his team final time through Anders Zachari- was sent off for time wasting. Event cancellation insurers have For the European giants, it was the can thank him for while Denmark's assen while Egypt kept themselves in Egypt's Ibrahim El Masry was sent had a tough year as a result of the pan- seventh victory in as many matches Magnus Saugstrup put on an exem- the match by drawing level several off too in the fourth period of extra demic, with festivals, conferences and at the 27th World Championship, and plary show, firing in five goals. The times, succeeding in doing so in the time, shortly before El Tayar conceded sporting events postponed or cancelled by far the most difficult one. Yet, they period ended with a score of 16:13 to final seconds while also missing a final Magnus Landin scored a final second the world over. ultimately won and will meet Spain the Danes' favour. second chance to take the win. The 7m throw. A penalty throw-off ensued, Broker Howden estimates in the semi-finals. The second period saw an fiery period ended 28:28. with Egypt missing two shots to Den- COVID-19 event cancellation losses Egypt took the lead for a vast opening 10 minutes, with Egypt Denmark took control of the first mark's one, giving the latter the at $5-6bn. portion of the first period, with clawing back and regaining the lead two extra time periods, keeping the advantage. THURSDAY 28 JANUARY 2021 SPORT 11

Al Mohannadi eyes win on home I am well prepared to take on the great challenge this week. There are top names featuring in the Qatar soil at Qatar International Rally International Rally - both from Qatar and from around the region. I seek to achieve THE PENINSULA – DOHA great challenge this week. There are top Khalid Al names featuring in the Qatar International Mohannadi (right) many goals during this Popular Qatari rally driver Khalid Al Rally - both from Qatar and from around and his co-driver season, most notably Mohannadi will be eyeing a title win at the region. I seek to achieve many goals Kiril Shubin. contributing to the success this week’s Qatar International Rally, during this season, most notably contrib- of the rally being staged in which is the opening round of the 38th uting to the success of the rally being FIA Middle East Rally Championship staged in my country, as well as winning my country, as well as (MERC). and competing for the title of the Middle winning and competing for The three-day championship flags off East Championship,” he added. the title of the Middle East with the participation of 20 teams repre- Russian rally driver Shubin said yes- Championship: Qatari rally senting nine countries. terday: “I am thrilled to be associated with Al Mohannadi will compete in the rally Khalid Al Mohnnadi in the Middle East driver Khalid Al Mohannadi with Russian co-driver Kiril Shubin on Rally Championship for the second time. their Polaris in the T4 category which is The atmosphere this time is very special marking its first entry in MERC. and this motivates us to give our best.” The Qatari driver yesterday Shubin added: “I have been doing FIA MIDDLE EAST announced at a press conference that the rallies for the last 20 years. Competing here RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP Universe Sports Marketing company will in Qatar is completely different to what we CALENDAR 2021 support him in the MERC first round and see in Russia. Qatar has a difficult terrain. the subsequent legs in this season. There are rocks and stones here and this January 28-30: At the beginning of the conference, terrain is very difficult to manage.” Qatar - Manateq Qatar Al Muhannadi thanked Mohammed Al Mohannadi revealed the difficulties International Rally is a great opportunity Abdulrahman Al Mannai and FIA for International Rally Mubarak Al Muhannadi, CEO of Universe he is facing before the start of the rally especially as it is the first time that the FIA adding the T3 category in our home cham- February 18-20: Sports Marketing, Adel Khamis, Vice due to the delayed arrival of his new car. has added the category “T3” for the Middle pionship. I did not imagine that there Oman - Rally of Oman Chairman of the Board of Directors, and “The new approved car is still not here. East Rally Championship. would be a quick approval to establish May 20-22: Khalid Abdulla Al Binali, Head of Pro- I will participate in the same car that I “We will do our best to participate in this category and we would host the first Jordan - Jordan Rally tocol and Public Relations, for their ‘great participated in the Qatar Baja when I was the championship, especially since all the round in Qatar. I am confident that the September 03-05: support’. crowned champion,” he said. customisation of the car is completed. My title will be ours since I can make up for Lebanon - Rally of Lebanon “The support of the sponsors is helping “I am actively seeking to compete in target is to win the title of the Middle East the coming rounds by starting strongly on September 24-26: me participate in events and represent the Middle East Rally Championship. If I Rally Championship this year,” he said home soil,” he added. Cyprus - Cyprus Rally Qatar in regional and international events, do not feature with me new car this week, with a smile. Khamis said yesterday: “I am very November 04-06: especially since the cars are highly then I will do so after the round in Qatar. Al Mohannadi said that the Qatar happy to support Khalid Al Muhannadi Kuwait - Rally of Kuwait expensive in the sport I love. The matter I am preparing to participate in the next International Rally will witness a strong so he can participate in the Middle East of car processing needs large amounts of round in Oman and then Jordan. I will also presence and applauded host of the event Rally Championship as he represents money. I also thank Polaris Qatar for pro- compete in Lebanon and Cyprus so I can - the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Feder- Qatar. We wish him success in the cham- viding the car which I will drive this aim to be on the podium and raise Qatar’s ation (QMMF) - for their efforts to put pionship, especially since he is a young week,” Al Mohannadi said. flag,” he said. together a fabulous week of racing. Qatari and ambitious sportsman. As a I am thrilled to be “I am well prepared to take on the “Participation in the Qatar “I thank QMMF President former player, I love to see him face new associated with Khalid Al challenges. We are pleased to see the Mohnnadi in the Middle East levels offered by Khalid Al Muhannadi Rally Championship for the and we hope to be supporting him in the upcoming races.” second time. The Mubarak Al Mohannadi said yesterday: atmosphere this time is very “We are happy with our partnership. It is special and this motivates a great thrill to see Khalid Al Muhannadi us to give our best. I have prepare not only to participate but aim to win the opening round of the Middle East been doing rallies for the Rally Championship. He will add a lot of last 20 years. Competing value to the event and to our brand. We here in Qatar is completely happy to have a contract with him since different to what we see in he is a very good rally driver. He has proved his worth from the beginning of Russia. Qatar has a difficult his career. He is champion material. We terrain. There are rocks and are proud of this partnership.” stones here and this terrain He added: “We are also proud to is very difficult to manage: support an ambitious Qatari driver who is forever ready for a high challenge. He Al Mohannadi's Russian Khalid Al Mohannadi and co-driver Shubin posing for a photograph with Al Muhannadi, CEO of Universe co-driver Kiril Shubin Sports Marketing; Adel Khamis, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors; and Khalid Abdulla Al Binali, Head of Protocol and has contributed to many championships Public Relations following a press conference. and we hope that he will succeed in this event and win the title.”

This weekend’s Qatar Al Thefiri faces stiff competition International Rally will be held under the chairmanship of QMMF for FIA MERC 2 honours in Qatar President Abdulrahman Al Mannai, senior committee THE PENINSULA – DOHA member Abdulrazaq Al Kuwari and the QMMF’s Multiple regional FIA MERC 2 and Group N rally champion Meshari Executive Director Amro Al Thefiri faces major competition Al Hamad. as he begins the defence of his MERC 2 championship title at this weekend’s Qatar International Rally. Today crews complete The opening round of the their two days of 2021 FIA Middle East Rally Cham- permitted reconnaissance pionship will take place over 11 Zakariya Al Aufi in action. Ahmad Khaled gravel special stages from of the timed special tomorrow through to Sunday. stages before a hectic The Kuwaiti has persevered officially replaced at the start of Bou Abdo to read his pace notes Oman last year and that was suf- recovered from injuries he sus- Friday timetable in the region’s secondary rally the 2013 season and the subse- in a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution ficient to see the Omani finish the tained in a spectacular crash at series for several years and has quent R4 section was phased out X. shortened season in second place the 2019 Sharqia Baja during a culminates with the built up a reputation for his con- in 2015. Al Mohannadi finished fifth in the rankings. Al Muqahwi was programme of events in the Saudi official pre-event press sistent finishes and ability to score These cars, most notably and eighth overall at the last two fourth. Arabian Rally Raid conference (7.30pm), championship points at vital homologated derivatives of the Qatar rallies in 2018 and 2019 Rounding off the list of con- Championship. times. He was an ever present on Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and and was classified third in MERC tenders for MERC 2 honours is This weekend’s Qatar Inter- ceremonial start (8.15pm) the shortened rally series in 2020 Subaru Impreza, are four-wheel 2 on both occasions. Ahmad Khaled at the wheel of national Rally will be held under and the opening super and was able to defend his MERC drive but don’t have the radical The MERC 2 category is well his Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution the chairmanship of QMMF Pres- special stage (9.30pm) at 2 title for a third year. engine tuning and handling per- supported by regional drivers in X. The Lebanese has been a ident Abdulrahman Al Mannai, Katara. Cars entered in the RC2 class formance improvements found Qatar. Kuwait’s Jassim Al regular in his national rally senior committee member and the NR4 group fight for points on R5 machines in the RC2 class. Muqahwi and fellow countryman championship and also finished Abdulrazaq Al Kuwari and the in FIA MERC 2. The universally Al Thefiri will be hoping to call Thamer Al Mutairi wheel out 11th overall in the 2019 Jordan QMMF’s Executive Director Amro known Group N category was on the expertise of his Qatari co- their Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Rally and fourth in MERC 2 after Al Hamad. driver Nasser Al Kuwari when he X and Zakariya Al Amri and retiring in Qatar. He teams up Today, crews complete their Rashid Al Mohannadi driving his car. takes the start in his Mitsubishi Zakariya Al Aufi will represent with the experienced Jordanian two days of permitted reconnais- Lancer Evolution X. Al Thefiri has Oman in their respective Subaru navigator Musa Djiyerian. He sance of the timed special stages, already secured two Group N and Impreza and Mitsubishi Lancer makes a switch from the two- before a hectic Friday timetable four MERC 2 titles. Evolution IX models. Mohammed wheel drive MERC 3 category culminates with the official pre- Flying the Qatari flag in MERC Al Mazroui and Ammar Al Bulushi after sealing a hat-trick of title event press conference 2 are Rashed Al Mohannadi and will co-drive. successes with fellow coun- (19.30hrs), ceremonial start Mohammed Al-Attiyah. Al Aufi finished fourth overall tryman Asem Aref in 2017 and (20.15hrs) and the opening super Mohannadi teams up with Jor- behind Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah, Lebanon’s Henry Kahy in 2018 special stage (21.30hrs) at Katara. danian co-driver Yousef Juma in Abdullah Al Rawahi and Nasser and 2019. Musa has now his Subaru Impreza and Al Attiyah Khalifa Al Atya to pip Al Thefiri will be relying on Lebanon’s Rony to the MERC 2 section win in

FIA MERC 2 and Group N Raally champion Meshari Al Thefiri and his Qatari co-driver Nasser Al Kuwari driving their Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. 10 SPORT THURSDAY 28 JANUARY 2021 Al Sadd in Group D as ACL draw produces thrilling match-ups

THE PENINSULA/AFC – KUALA LUMPUR 2021 AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE GROUP STAGE DRAW

Two-time AFC Champions League Group A: Al Hilal SFC (KSA), Shabab Al Ahli (UAE), FC Istiklol (TJK), Winner of Al Gharafa (QAT) - winners Al Sadd will kick off their FC AGMK (UZB) play-off campaign in Group D, the official Group B: Sharjah (UAE), Tractor FC (IRN), Pakhtakor (UZB), KSA-IRQ P/O winner draw revealed yesterday. AC Milan’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic wals away The 2021 AFC Champions Group C: Al Duhail SC (QAT), Al Ahli Saudi (KSA), Esteghlal (IRN), Al Shorta (IRQ) after clashing with Inter Milan’s Romelu League will see 40 teams in Group D: Al Sadd SC (QAT), Al Nassr (KSA), Al Wehdat (JOR), IRN-UAE P/O winner the group stage - an Group E: Persepolis FC (IRN), Al Rayyan (QAT), FC Goa (IND), UAE-IRQ P/O winner Lukaku during their Coppa Italia quarter- final match on Tuesday. increase of eight - Group F: Ulsan Hyundai FC (KOR), BG Pathum United (THA), Viettel FC (VIE), AUS- with one additional PHI-CHN P/O winner group each in the Group G: Jiangsu FC (CHN), Nagoya Grampus (JPN), Johor Darul Ta’zim (MAS), East and West Best and worst KOR-THA P/O winner. Zones. The draw Group H: Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (KOR), Gamba Osaka (JPN), Tampines Rovers has pitted the (SIN), Sydney FC (AUS) of Ibrahimovic high-flying Group I: Kawasaki Frontale (JPN), Guangzhou FC CHN), United City FC (PHI), KOR- Wolves, coached THA P/O winner as Milan suffer by Barca legend Group J: Shandong Luneng FC (CHN), Port FC (THA), Kitchee SC (HKG), JPN-AUS-MYA P/O Winner Xavi Hernandez, along with Saudi Arabia's Al defeat at Inter Nassr and Jordan's Al Wehdat. The winner of the April 7 play-off Ahli of UAE, FC Istiklol of Tajikistan Grampus, Malaysia’s Johor Darul AP – MILAN between Iran's Foolad Khouzestan drawn in Group A. Ta’zim and a play-off winner. FC and UAE's Al Ain FC will also join Qatar's Al Gharafa can book a Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors of The best and worst of Zlatan Ibrahimović the group. place in Group A if they beat Uzbek Korea Republic, Japan’s Gamba was on show on Tuesday as he scored and Apart from Al Sadd, QNB Stars side FC AGMK on April 7 in their Osaka, Tampines Rovers of Sin- later was sent off in AC Milan’s 2-1 loss at League champions Al Duhail and play-off. gapore and Australia’s Sydney FC city rival Inter Milan in the quarterfinals Al Rayyan have also been drawn Ulsan Hyundai FC will begin the were drawn in Group H with Japan’s of the Italian Cup. in their respective groups. defence of their title in Group F. Kawasaki Frontale, Guangzhou FC Ibrahimović clashed with former Al Duhail are in Group C which Korea Republic’s Ulsan Hyundai, of China, United City FC of Philip- teammate Romelu Lukaku at the end of Al Sadd's will also see Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli who defeated Islamic Republic of pines and a playoff winner the teams the first half, and he was ejected for a Baghdad Saudi, Esteghlal of Iran and Al Shorta Iran’s Persepolis FC in the 2020 final in Group I. second booking in the 58th minute. Bounedjah in of Iraq bidding to advance to the to lift the AFC Champions League China’s Shandong Luneng FC, “It (the confrontation) certainly influ- action during Round of 16. trophy for the second time, will have Port FC of Thailand, Hong Kong’s enced the match, the first booking caused an AFC Al Rayyan were drawn with Thailand’s BG Pathum United, Viet- Kitchee SC and a play-off winner the sending off,” Milan coach Stefano Pioli Champions Persepolis who were runners-up in nam’s Viettel FC and a play-off were drawn in Group J to complete said. “They’re big enough and ugly enough, League 2018, India’s FC Goa and a play-off winner for company in Group F. the East Zone section of the draw. I don’t know what they said to each other, match in winner in Group E. Group B comprises UAE’s The 2021 AFC Champions League it can happen, we need to move past it and this file The draw, conducted virtually Sharjah, Iran’s Tractor FC, Pakhtakor kicks off with the preliminary stage think of the next match.” photo. and streamed live from Kuala of Uzbekistan and a play-off winner. on April 7 with the group stage - Lukaku converted a penalty for the Lumpur, saw 2019 champions Al Group G comprises Jiangsu FC which kicks off on April - to be equalizer and Christian Eriksen scored the Hilal SFC of Saudi Arabia, Shabab Al of China PR, Japan’s Nagoya played in centralised venues. winner deep in stoppage time. “I haven’t spoken with Romelu yet, but I was a player so I know that during a Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling scores their fifth goal. match things can get heated. Situations can Arsenal hail Saka flare up but it’s only right that things then settle,” Inter coach Antonio Conte said. improvement after Inter will play Juventus or Spal in the semi-finals. win at Southampton The two Milan clubs are also fighting it out in the league, with the Rossoneri REUTERS – SOUTHHAMPTON leading second-place Inter by two points. Milan broke the deadlock in the 31st Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says Bukayo Saka minute when Ibrahimović controlled the possesses leadership qualities beyond his years ball on the edge of the area before placing after the teenage winger produced another an angled drive between the legs of Inter impressive performance in Tuesday’s 3-1 win defender Aleksandar Kolarov. It went in at Southampton. off the base of the far post. The 19-year-old scored in the first half and There was a huge argument - and assisted Alexandre Lacazette’s close-range head-to-head clash - between effort in the second to help secure the victory Ibrahimović and Lukaku on the stroke of that lifted Arsenal to eighth. halftime and both players were booked. “He’s really humble, respectful and at the The spat between the former Manchester same time has that character to demand the United teammates continued after the ball, to make decisions that are not very usual halftime whistle and a visibly furious for his age,” Arteta told reporters. Lukaku had to be pulled back. Italian tel- “We need that leadership and he’s gaining evision said Milan representatives had that with his attitude. City roar to summit with big win denied any allegations of racism in Ibra- “If he’s able to do that with the intelligence himovic’s remarks to Lukaku, who is that he has, with the work rate that he shows REUTERS – LONDON was that City only added a Raheem rejuvenated side. The pressure Black. on the pitch and with the capacity that he has Sterling goal to their tally in the continues to pile up on Newcastle The yellow card was to prove costly to understand the game in different positions, If their Premier League title rivals second half. United manager Steve Bruce after for Ibrahimović as he was shown another then he becomes a really different player.” hoped the absence of injured Kevin While City are threatening to they lost 2-1 at home to Leeds after the break for a tackle on Kolarov Arteta said midfielders Emile Smith Rowe De Bruyne might slow down take a stranglehold at the summit, United -- a defeat that leaves them and sent off, leaving his side down to 10 and Thomas Partey would be assessed ahead Manchester City’s charge they the situation below them remains in 16th place with 19 points, but men. of Saturday’s home game against Manchester were left disappointed on Tuesday fluid with West Ham United the having played more games than And Inter was level 13 minutes later. United after being substituted due to as Pep Guardiola’s side annihilated latest team to break into the top the two sides immediately below Leão brought down Nicolò Barella and, “discomfort”. West Bromwich Albion 5-0 to go four. them. after viewing the incident again on the Arsenal are on 30 points, five behind West top. Two goals from Thomas Raphinha put Leeds ahead and pitchside monitor, the referee pointed to Ham United in fourth place, the final automatic The Belgian playmaker faces Soucek earned West Ham a 3-2 although Miguel Almiron levelled, the spot. Lukaku slammed the penalty into Champions League spot for next season. several weeks out with a muscle victory at London rivals Crystal Leeds went ahead again almost the top left corner. injury but City’s 11th successive win Palace who had taken the lead in instantly through Jack Harrison, The match had a lengthy delay as in all competitions showed they the second minute through Wil- leaving Newcastle with only two referee Paolo Valeri received treatment have the firepower to cope without fried Zaha. West Ham’s fourth suc- points from the last 27 available in for a thigh injury and was eventually him. cessive league win moved them the league. replaced by the fourth official. City scored three times in the above Tottenham Hotspur and Liv- In a Premier League season of Milan goalkeeper Ciprian Tătăruşanu opening half hour at The Haw- erpool who meet today. wild unpredictability, City are pulled off a number of saves but it wasn’t thorns as they moved to 41 points Arsenal avenged Saturday’s FA beginning to look ominously in the enough. Just as the match appeared to be from 19 games, one more than Cup defeat by Southampton to beat sort of groove that helped them heading into extra time, Eriksen curled a Manchester United and signifi- the Saints 3-1 on the south coast claim back-to-back titles before free kick into the top left corner in the cantly seven more than struggling -- their fifth win in six league Liverpool knocked them off their seventh minute of stoppage time. champions Liverpool. games moving them up to eighth. perch last season. Even without De Eriksen’s short-lived Inter career was Two goals form Ilkay Gun- Stuart Armstrong had put the Bruyne and Sergio Aguero they expected to end this month after club CEO dogan and one from Joao Cancelo hosts in front but goals from looked frightening in attack against Giuseppe Marotta confirmed the midfielder finished the match as a contest and Nicolas Pepe, Bukayo Saka and a West Brom side who have lost is among the players the Nerazzurri are Arsenal’s Alexandre Lacazette scores their Riyad Mahrez made it 4-0 just Alexandre Lacazette sealed an all four home league games since willing to sell. But Conte said the 28-year- third goal. before the break. The only surprise impressive win for Mikel Arteta’s Sam Allardyce took charge. old Eriksen remains in his plans. How new coach Tuchel can get Chelsea ticking again

REUTERS – LONDON he will need to show tangible Werner has scored once for or not he has the Getting on with the progress sooner rather than Chelsea since early November players at his dis- hierarchy Thomas Tuchel will be expected later. while Havertz has looked lost. posal to do that at Tuchel has never to hit the ground running when So what are the main prior- The arrival of Tuchel, who Chelsea is ques- been afraid of flexing his he takes charge of Chelsea for ities for the latest incumbent in knows their strengths inside out tionable. But he will muscles when it comes the first time yesterday, 24 hours the Stamford Bridge hot seat. having watched them come demand individual to dealing with club after being confirmed as Frank Get a tune out of Werner and through the German system, will responsibility on owners and his Lampard’s replacement. Havertz be a comfort to both. the pitch and an departure from Borussia The 47-year-old former Frank Lampard’s struggle to Give Chelsea an identity on ability from his Dortmund in 2017 Mainz, Borussia Dortmund and integrate more than £200m the pitch players to move out stemmed from a fall-out Paris St Germain manager ($274.70m) worth of close Lampard spoke a lot about of comfort zones over transfer policy. comes with rave reviews and season signings into a team that wanting his Chelsea side to have and be tactically Tuchel also had an comparisons between himself did so well last term ultimately a clear identity -- but was not flexible. uneasy relationship with Thomas Tuchel and Liverpool boss Juergen cost him his job. That failure was given the time to embed it. Kante or Jorginho? PSG sporting director Klopp. highlighted by the under- Tuchel’s teams are known N’Golo Kante Leonardo so how he Unlike Klopp, however, who whelming impact of forward for their fast-paced, attacking was Frank Lampard’s preferred Tuchel while at PSG and could deals with the Chelsea hierarchy was allowed time to mould Liv- Timo Werner and playmaker Kai football, working tirelessly to midfield pivot but the arrival of be used as a deep-lying play- will be interesting. Usually there erpool into eventual champions Havertz, German internationals win the ball back and moving Tuchel might be good news for maker behind a central midfield is only one winner when Chelsea of England and Europe, the signed from RB Leipzig and forward quickly -- not unlike Jorginho. pairing of Mason Mount and managers clash with the powers nature of the Chelsea job means Bayer Leverkusen respectively. Liverpool at their best. Whether The Brazilian was a target for Havertz. at the top of the club. THURSDAY 28 JANUARY 2021 SPORT 09

Players must Alam hits ton as Pakistan take control not jump vaccine of opening Test against South Africa queue, says AP — KARACHI SCOREBOARD But Alam showed lots of South Africa 1st innings 220 determination to keep the ACA head Fawad Alam’s third Test century Pakistan 1st innings (overnight 33-4) Proteas at bay. The home team put Pakistan in charge on the Imran Butt c Bavuma b Rabada ...... 9 went close to dismissing him for second day of the first Test Abid Ali b Rabada ...... 4 35 just before lunch when Dean REUTERS — MELBOURNE against South Africa yesterday. Azhar Ali c de Kock b Maharaj ...... 51 Elgar failed to hold onto a sharp The 35-year-old Alam hit Babar Azam lbw b Maharaj ...... 7 low catch in the slips. Australian Cricketers’ Associ- nine fours and two sixes in a Shaheen Shah Afridi b Nortje ...... 0 Alam had long been ignored ation (ACA) Chairman Greg patient 109 off 245 balls, com- Fawad Alam c Bavuma b Ngidi ...... 109 by Pakistan after scoring a Dyer said it would not be piled in just under six hours, to Mohammad Rizwan c du Plessis b Ngidi ...... 33 debut Test hundred against Sri “morally defensible” for help his team reach 308-8 at Faheem Ashraf b Nortje ...... 64 Lanka in 2009. athletes to be given priority stumps. Hasan Ali ...... 11 He finally got his chance access to a COVID-19 vaccine Faheem Ashraf also scored Nauman Ali not out ...... 6 against England last year and ahead of higher risk groups. a fluent 64 off 84 balls as Extras (b1, lb4, nb9) ...... 14 the left-handed batsman made With Australia to begin its Pakistan opened up a first- Total (107 overs, eight ) ...... 308 his second Test century, 11 years vaccine rollout in February, innings lead of 88 runs on a Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Abid), 2-15 (Butt), 3-26 after his first, against New local media have reported (Azam), 4-27 (Shaheen), 5-121 (Azhar), 6-176 slow . He and Alam Zealand last month. Australia asked for the (Rizwan), 7-278 (Alam), 8-295 (Ashraf) shared a stand of 102 for the To bat: Yasir Shah Yesterday, Alam shared a Test squad to be vaccinated seventh wicket. : Rabada 23-7-45-2 (nb2), Nortje 24- 94-run, fifth-wicket stand with before they tour South Africa, Debutant Nauman Ali was 4-84-2 (1nb), Ngidi 15-0-55-2 (2nb), Maharaj Azhar Ali (51) before his partner which is battling a highly 6 not out and Hasan Ali, who 29-4-71-2 (3nb), Linde 13-3-38-0, Markram was caught behind off left-arm infectious variant of the virus. was bowled by Keshav Maharaj 3-0-10-0 spinner Maharaj (2-71). Pakistan's Fawad Alam “My personal view is that off a no-ball late in the day, was Toss: South Africa, elected to bat Mohammad Rizwan then celebrates his century sportspeople should not be unbeaten on 11. made 33 until he was removed yesterday. jumping the queue,” Dyer told Alam, who bats in an unor- by Ngidi. the Sydney Morning Herald. thodox style and exposes all Africa under more pressure if Alam reached his century by “It’s the wrong look. There three stumps to the bowler, was we manage to add 20-30 more lofting Maharaj, who shared the are more important people out out in the last session when he runs tomorrow because the new ball with Kagiso Rabada there with much higher levels flicked a ball from Lungi Ngidi pitch looks like quite slow and (2-45), over long on for his of exposure who need the vac- (2-55) straight to mid-wicket. double-paced.” second six. cines first.” “I am feeling out of this Pakistan was in trouble Ashraf, who smashed “Sports need to build pro- world at the moment, it was a overnight on 33-4 after South Rabada for two boundaries in tocols which don’t require vac- very good innings because the Africa had been skittled out for an over with the new ball, was cines and we’ve been able to,” team needed it the most,” Alam 220 on an eventful first day dismissed when he dragged a Dyer said. “It’s not morally said. when 14 wickets fell on an full from Anrich Nortje defensible for sports people to “I think we can put South uneven wicket. (2-84) onto the stumps. jump the queue.” CA confirms India players Wade cut from Aussie subjected to racial abuse Test squad for series

REUTERS — MELBOURNE did not engage in racist behaviour,” he against South Africa added. Australia’s cricket board yesterday CA said it had submitted its report AP — BRISBANE AUSTRALIA SQUADS confirmed India’s players were sub- on the investigation to global gov- Tests: Tim Paine (), Pat Cummins (vice- jected to racial abuse during the third erning body the International Cricket Matthew Wade (pictured) has captain), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Cameron test at the Sydney Cricket Ground but Council (ICC). The board added been cut from Australia’s Test Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis cleared six spectators who were taken that it was awaiting confirmation squad for the scheduled tour to Head, Moises Henriques, , from their seats and questioned by from police that they had com- South Africa. Nathan Lyon, , James Pattinson, police at the ground. pleted their own investigation. While the 33-year-old Cricket Australia (CA) launched an The allegations of racism over- wicketkeeper-batsman didn’t Will Pucovski, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mark investigation with New South Wales shadowed the last two matches of the make the 19-player list for Steketee, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner. Police after India fast bowlers Jasprit Test series, which India won 2-1. South Africa, though, he was T20s: Aaron Finch (captain), Matthew Wade Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj com- India spin bowler Ravichandran picked as vice-captain of an (vice-captain), Ashton Agar, Jason Behrendorff, plained of hearing racist slurs while Ashwin said during the third Test 18-player squad that is set to Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Ben McDermott, fielding near the boundary rope. that the team had been insulted play New Zealand in a series of Riley Meredith, Josh Philippe, Jhye Richardson, Play was held up for about 10 by Sydney spectators in the matches. Kane Richardson, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha,

minutes on day three after Siraj past but the racial abuse The tours are expected to D’Arcy Short, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, An- approached an umpire to voice his had crossed a line. be held concurrently in March, drew Tye, Adam Zampa. concerns before police stepped in to “It is definitely not although there hasn’t been con- take six male fans from their seats. acceptable in this day firmation of the schedule for “CA confirms that members of the and age. This must Test series. T20 squad for the five-game Indian cricket team were subjected to definitely be dealt South Australia wicket- series in a squad that also racial abuse,” CA integrity chief Sean with iron-fist and keeper Alex Carey has been includes emerging spinner Carroll said in a statement. we must make sure elevated to the Test squad as Tanveer Sanga, the return of “CA’s own investigation into the it doesn’t happen backup gloveman for captain Jhye Richardson and the matter remains open, with CCTV again,” the Tim Paine, and Queensland fast inclusion of short-form reg- footage, ticketing data and interviews bowler said. bowler Mark Steketee was also ulars Glenn Maxwell, Adam with spectators still being analysed in included. Zampa and Marcus Stoinis. an attempt to locate those Travis Head, who was Cricket Australia staid in a responsible. dropped from the starting XI for statement Wednesday that the “CA’s investigation concluded that the series-deciding Test loss to T20 squad will not change Mohammed Siraj of India the spectators filmed and/or photo- India in Brisbane earlier this regardless of any changes to the celebrates the wicket of graphed by media in the Brewongle month, was preferred as a Test itinerary. Stand concourse at the conclusion of Marnus Labuschagne of middle-order batsman to South Africa has just started the 86th over on day three of the test Australia, in this file photo. Wade. a two-Test series against Aaron Finch will lead the Pakistan. Former No.1 Murray Nadal and Serena support strict enters challenger COVID-19 protocols in Australia tournament in Italy REUTERS — MELBOURNE are losing their father, their mum, positive. I feel that we are privi- without having the chance to say leged people today, having the AP — ROME Rafa Nadal feels tennis players goodbye. It’s a real thing, that’s chance to keep doing our jobs,” are privileged to be able to It’s super, super strict, but what’s happening in my country he said. Britain's Andy Murray (pictured) has entered a lower-tier compete at the Australian Open it’s really good. It’s insane for example. Close people to me Organisers also received challenger tournament in Italy next month after with- during the COVID-19 pandemic are suffering this situation,” said backing from 23-time Grand drawing from the Australian Open with the coronavirus. and urged fellow participants to and super intense but it’s Nadal Slam winner Williams, who has Murray is listed to play an indoor tournament in Biella have a wider perspective of the super good because after Australia has recorded more travelled to Australia with three- starting Feb. 15, the Italian Tennis Federation said yes- strict health measures in the that you can have a new than 22,000 cases and 909 year-old daughter Olympia. terday. The tournament has €132,000 ($160,000) in prize country. deaths from the novel corona- “It’s super, super strict, but it’s money. Murray tested positive for COVID-19 shortly before About 1,200 participants normal like we were used virus. It had no new local cases really good,” she said on The Late he was due to board a charter flight to Melbourne, where were allowed to fly to Australia to this time last year in the for the 10th straight day Show With Stephen Colbert. he had been given a wild-card entry. for the summer of tennis as United States. yesterday. “It’s insane and super intense Murray is a former No. 1 who is currently ranked 123rd thousands of its citizens are After the 14-day iso- but it’s super good because after as hehe worksworks hishis way backback ffromrom hiphip issues thatth led to two unable to return home due to lation,lation, pplayerslayers wwillill bbee thatthat yyouou can hhaveave a newnew operations.operations. travel restrictions. Serena Williams allowedallowed to ttrainrain normalnormal liklikee wwee wwereere used HeHe last playedplayed a challenger Players linked to Australian US Tennis Star normallynormally and then toto this time last yyearear iinn event in AugustAugust 2019 in Mal- Open are serving 14 days of iso- competecompete at thethe UnitedUnited StateStates.s. lorca, Spain, wwhile recov- lation during which they are ttune-upune-up eveneventsts “It’s definitelydefinitely harhardd eringering frofromm his hip allowed five hours outside their nextnext wweek.eek. with a three-year-oldthree-year-old problems.problems. rooms each day to train for the “very sorry” for those in hard “The“The wworldorld iiss to be in tthehe hhotelotel aallll AlsoAlso eenterednte for the year’s first Grand Slam, which isolation. sufferingsuffering in dday,ay, bbutut it’s wortworthh it BiellaBiella tournamenttourn are has been delayed by three “But when we came here we general,general, so we because youyou want eveve-e- 54th-ranked54th-ra Ale- weeks and will be played from knew that the measures were can’t cocom-m- ryone to be safe at thethe jjandroand Davi- February 8-21. going to be strict because we plain,”plain,” Nadal end of the day.”day.” dovichdovic Fokina, But 72 players have been con- knew that the country is doing added.added. whowho also tested fined to their rooms after pas- great with the pandemic,” the ““YouYou havehave Serena positivep osi for sengers on the charter flights that Spaniard told CNN. to staystay a little Williams COCOVID-19VID before carried them to Australia tested “It’s normal to complain in more hishis plannedpla trip to positive to the virus. some way but on the other hand Australia,Austra No. 74 Spanish star Nadal, along when you have little bit wider Lucas Pouille, with top tennis players like Novak perspective of what’s going on... SebastiSebastiana Korda, Djokovic and America's Grand you see how many are dying Andreas Seppi and Slam star Serena Williams is iso- around the world. LorenzoLorenzo MMusetti. lating in Adelaide and said he felt “You see how many people Sport THURSDAY 28 JANUARY 2021 08 We need to be ready to have games that won’t be COVID-free: Ricci Bitti All 33 sports ‘unanimously’ want Games

AP — ROME against cancellation in 2020 but did not take the option. Paris 2024 will The IOC is adamant the Tokyo The more pressing matter Olympics will be held this They will be different games. But we, the federations, for the group of federations go ahead as year despite the pandemic. So, are open to accepting these changes. They will be now is qualifying. too, are Japanese organisers. “We still have 30% of the Now hear it from the man spartan games, with all of the usual services reduced. athletes theoretically not planned despite who represents the track and qualified,” Ricci Bitti said. field, swimming and gym- Francesco Ricci Bitti “Some qualifying events Tokyo concern, nastics federations as well as President, Association of Summer Olympic International won’t be held.” every other Summer Games Federations While a women’s water says Estanguet sport. polo qualifying tournament “At the moment, we’re was held in Italy last weekend PARIS positive that the games will - with Hungary and the Neth- REUTERS — be held,” said Francesco Ricci erlands earning spots in Bitti (pictured), president of Tokyo - other events that The 2024 Paris Olympics will go the Association of Summer were canceled last year have ahead as scheduled regardless of the Olympic International not been rescheduled. fate of this year’s Summer Games in Federations. “In the situations where Tokyo amid the COVID-19 crisis, the “They will be different the qualifying events can’t be French organising committee said games. But we, the federa- held as planned, the national yesterday. tions, are open to accepting In this file photo taken on December 1, federations are permitted to Last week, Japan and the Inter- these changes,” Ricci Bitti 2020, the Olympic rings are reinstalled use different criteria,” Ricci national Olympic Committee (IOC) said. at the waterfront in Tokyo. Bitti said. recommitted to holding the “They will be spartan “The problems lie mainly Olympics this year, denying a British games, with all of the usual with the combat sports. The media report that the government services reduced.” are very positive. We said on Tuesday, a day others have other criteria like had privately concluded the Games The International Olympic strongly want these after the federations’ rankings.” Switching quali- would have to be cancelled. Committee and Tokyo organ- games.” latest meeting. “It’s unan- fying procedures so late in the As Japan declared a state of isers are set to roll out “play- Japanese authorities imous. They want the game, however, could open emergency following a record books” next week to explain and the IOC moved games.” the way for athletes to make number of COVID-19 cases earlier how 15,400 Olympic and Par- quickly last week to What’s more is that appeals to the Court of Arbi- this month, British four-time alympic athletes and tens of dismiss a report by The there are no plans to tration for Sport. Olympic gold medallist Matthew thousands of others will try to Times of London that reduce the number of Assuming the games Pinsent called for the Tokyo Games, safely enter Japan when the quoted an anonymous athletes competing in happen. Japan has more than already postponed by a year, to be Olympics open in just under government official Tokyo. 5,000 deaths attributed to held in 2024. six months. claiming it has been con- Half of the 33 feder- COVID-19 and its health care Estanguet insisted the Paris The planning is being cluded the games will be ations are “really strug- system is under stress. A Olympics would not be moved. made public to push back canceled. gling” financially because vaccine rollout is expected “If I stick to the discussions with against reports that the “Right now there is no of the Tokyo Games post- next month, but later in the the IOC, I don’t have the impression Olympics will be canceled alternative option,” Ricci ponement, Ricci Bitti year for much of the general that there will be another post- with Tokyo and much of Bitti said. said. public. ponement,” he explained. Japan still under a state of “As (IOC president key month for a decision this “Some of the big ones So what happens if the sit- “The impact for Paris 2024 is emergency with COVID-19 Thomas) Bach said, a Plan B year. because they had to cancel big uation in Japan worsens? nevertheless quite limited, we have cases rising. doesn’t exist. Everything else “For now there’s no need events, the smaller ones “For now that’s a our own calendar. For the past year, “There will be all the is pure speculation. Whoever to decide anything,” he said. because they’re very hypotheses that doesn’t exist,” we haven’t been impacted by the counter measures which we talks about that is doing harm, “And we hope that a decision dependent on contributions Ricci Bitti said. postponement. are studying sport by sport,” because it creates won’t be needed. Because from the Olympics,” he added. “If the situation gets much “Our Games will go well in 2024, Ricci Bitti said. confusion.” everything is ready. … We’re The IOC also relies on the worse, the IOC will have to whatever happens in Tokyo. I fer- “We need to be ready to The Tokyo Games were going sport by sport to set up Summer Games as the driver make a decision with the vently hope, like many, that these have games that won’t be initially slated for 2020 but new anti-COVID measures.” for billions of dollars’ worth World Health Organization Games will take place because it will COVID-free. were postponed for a year last So are all 33 sports feder- of broadcasting and spon- and the government. It will be create a strong dynamic - particu- “That’s the situation at the March shortly before the torch ations - from archery to wres- soring deals, though most is very coordinated. But the sit- larly with the handover ceremony - moment. All of the negative relay was due to start. tling - moving forward with tied to long-term contracts uation is not getting worse but Paris 2024 is not linked to things are speculation right Ricci Bitti said not to read their planning? with supportive partners. The right now. I hope it doesn’t get Tokyo’s destiny.” now. In Olympic circles we too much into March being a “All of them,” Ricci Bitti IOC had an insurance policy any worse than it is right now.” MLB: Coach Ron Johnson dies of NHL: Smith scores winner as COVID-19 Bruins edge Penguins 3-2

REUTERS — NEW YORK REUTERS — NEW YORK three-on-zero that failed found Marchand one-on-one Ron Johnson, longtime coach in the before Boston took advantage in the offensive zone with Baltimore Orioles, Boston Red Sox and Craig Smith scored the game- on Smith’s unmanned tally. defenseman Kris Letang. Kansas City Royals organisations, died at winner with 11 seconds Still, yet another comeback Marchand fired top shelf to age 64 because of complications related remaining in overtime as the helped the Penguins force the beat Jarry for a 1-0 lead at 7:41 to COVID-19. Boston Bruins edged the extra period. Seconds after the of the first. Johnson most recently served in the visiting Pittsburgh Penguins visitors wasted their sixth After two more failed Orioles’ organisation, where he managed 3-2. power play of the night, power-play chances for Pitts- the Triple-A Norfolk Tides from 2012-18. Smith converted a two-on- Zucker’s snipe from the dot burgh, Boston got its turn with He came to the Orioles from the Red Sox, zero with David Krejci to made it 2-1 with 10:13 a five-on-three in the second. where he was the Pawtucket Red Sox’s extend the Bruins’ winning remaining. Ritchie took advantage with a manager from 2005-09 and Boston’s first streak to three. Rask appeared injured redirect of a Marchand pass base coach on Terry Francona’s staff from Brad Marchand and Nick during the offensive push, from the top of the crease at 2010-11. Boston Ritchie scored in regulation grabbing his lower body imme- 7:58. The Royals offered Johnson his first Bruins right and Tuukka Rask stopped 28 diately after the goal, but he Defenseman Matt Grzelcyk coaching job, and he managed teams at wing Craig shots. stayed in the game. (lower body) was a late scratch the Single-A, Double-A and Triple-A levels Smith reacts Jason Zucker and Kasperi Though he denied Kapanen for Boston. Bruins forward Jake for the organization during the 1990s. His after scoring Kapanen tallied during a third- on a breakaway with just over DeBrusk sustained a lower- managerial career spanned 25 seasons in the game period rally for the Penguins, five minutes left, the forward body injury in the first period the minor leagues, where he went 1,752- winning goal whose four-game winning got another chance and poked and did not return. 1,773 in 3,525 games, according to MLB. against the streak came to an end. Tristan the puck in from the crease at Pittsburgh defender Brian com. Pittsburgh Jarry made 33 saves. 16:44 to knot the score. Dumoulin was injured in the “RIP RJ. You were one of the coolest Penguins. Penguins star Evgeni The Bruins scored on the second and similarly exited. teammates I ever had,” longtime Royals Malkin rung the crossbar on a Penguins’ first power play Forward Drew O’Connor pitcher Mark Gubicza tweeted. breakaway during overtime. when Sidney Crosby’s pass made his NHL debut for the “Praying for Daphne and the entire He had another golden chance bounced off Jared McCann’s Penguins and assisted on family. Love you brother.” as part of a Pittsburgh stick to Charlie McAvoy, who Zucker’s tally.

Houston Rockets guard John Wall Wall guides Rockets past Wizards (left) drives to the net against Washington Wizards forward Isaac Bonga during the third quarter at REUTERS — NEW YORK Sunday’s game at Mil- Toyota Center. John Wall scored a team-high 24 points in his first matchup waukee with back spasms, John Wall scored a team- with his former team as the host Houston Rockets earned a shot 12-for-23 from the floor high 24 points in his first 107-88 victory over the short-handed Washington Wizards. as the Hawks won for the matchup with his former fourth time in five games. team as the host Houston Also returning for Rockets earned a 107-88 Russell Westbrook, traded shooting -- O’Neale con- Atlanta was Clint Capela, victory over the short- for Wall in the offseason, nected on 7 of 12 attempts who missed the last game handed Washington added 19 points, 11 rebounds while also grabbing six with right hand soreness. Wizards. and seven assists. The rebounds. Austin Rivers led Capela had 13 points and 18 Eric Gordon and Victor Wizards were missing six New York with 25 points, rebounds, his third straight Oladipo added 20 apiece for players due to league health including hitting 5 of 7 game with at least 18 boards. Houston, which extended its and safety protocols. 3-point attempts, but he was The Hawks’ De’Andre season-best winning streak Utah Jazz 108 - New held scoreless in the second Hunter contributed 22 to three games. York Knicks 94 half after going 10-for-10 points. DeMarcus Cousins Royce O’Neale scored a from the floor in a red-hot The Clippers were tallied 19 points, 11 rebounds career-high 20 points and first half. playing without Kawhi and five steals for Houston, Rudy Gobert dominated the Atlanta Hawks 108 - Leonard and Paul George which played without center interior as Utah defeated Los Angeles Clippers 99 (health and safety pro- Christian Wood (ankle). New York in Salt Lake City Trae Young returned to tocols) plus Patrick Bev- Washington’s Bradley for its ninth straight victory. the lineup and scored 38 erley (right knee soreness). Beal, the league’s leading With leading scorer points, helping host Atlanta Reggie Jackson led Los scorer, tallied 33 points on Donovan Mitchell struggling defeat short-handed Los Angeles with 20 points and 12-of-28 shooting, while -- nine points on 3-of-15 Angeles. Young, who missed eight assists.