FOOTBALL | Page 3 GGOLFOLF | Page 5 Huth sends McIlroy makes To Advertise here Leicester late charge Call: 444 11 300, 444 66 621 clear, Spurs as Willet go second takes lead

Sunday, February 7, 2016 CRICKET Rabia II 28, 1437 AH Warner, Marsh GULF TIMES ensure revenge for Australia SPORT Page 8

RALLYING Nasser sets new MERC mark Al-Attiyah overtakes cided with the Asian Shooting Cham- have put in to make the event a grand bin Sulayem’s record pionships, which was meant to be a success.” qualifying event for 2016 Rio Olympics. Yesterday, al-Attiyah took the fi - of 60 MERC leg wins However, with the Asian event being nal 112km stage in a time of one hour, with victory in Qatar stripped of its Olympic status, Nasser 2 minutes and 50.2 seconds, 34.50 made a last-minute dash to Oman leg, seconds ahead of compatriot Khalid which was making its return to the al-Suwaidi in his Ford Fiesta. Both in- By Sports Reporter MERC calendar for the fi rst time since curred zero penalty points. Rashid al- Doha 2007, and proved his mettle once again. Naimi fi nished third to make it a Qatari The 45-year-old, who said he will be podium sweep. cutting down on his rallying to focus on The Qatar International Rally is the ecords are meant to be broken, shooting in order to qualify for the Rio fi rst leg of the MERC, and yesterday’s they say, but yesterday Qa- de Janeiro Olympics later this year, was achievement by al-Attiyah puts him in tar’s Nasser Saleh al-Attiyah understandably thrilled with his suc- pole position to dominate the regional achieved a milestone that cess in Qatar. event this year and go on to win his 12th wouldR perhaps be etched in the record “I am so happy to have achieved the title. books till eternity. record of winning 61 MERC legs and “That’s certainly my target,” said The twice Dakar Rally winner and overtaking Mohamed bin Sulayem’s al-Attiyah. “Anything can happen in Olympic shooting medallist powered record,” al-Attiyah said. “I am par- a major event but this victory has cer- his Skoda R5 to victory in the Qatar In- Nasser Saleh al-Attiyah (R) and co-driver Mathieu Baumel celebrate winning the Qatar International Rally yesterday. ticularly delighted to have achieved the tainly boosted my confi dence.” ternational Rally to overtake the tally of milestone in my own country because The president of QMMF Nasser 60 fi rst-place fi nishes in the FIA Mid- Al-Attiyah, who has virtually no home turf that his streak of wins since layem’s record of 60 leg wins in No- the Qatar International Rally holds a Khalifa al-Attiyah was all praise for dle East Rally Championship by UAE competition in the region, yesterday 2003 was interrupted only once – in vember last year when he won in Oman. special place in my heart. I thank the the champion. “What he achieved was great Mohamed bin Sulayem who did won the Qatar leg of the regional event 2012 by compatriot Abdulaziz al-Ku- He clinched his 11th MERC crown in Qatar Motor and Motorcyle Federa- incredible and there is surely more it between 1986 and 2002 when he was for the 13th time beginning 2003. In wari. the previous round in Jordan and had tion (QMMF) chief Nasser Khalifa al- to come from him. He is capable of the overall champion 14 times. fact, such has been his domination on Al-Attiyah had equalled bin Su- decided to skip the Oman leg as it coin- Attiyah for the eff orts he and his team achieving more glory for Qatar.” Gulf Times 2 Sunday, February 7, 2016 FOOTBALL

FOCUS OPENER VIPs, fans show support on day one Roman the of Al Kass 2016

By Sports Reporter As the tournament kicks off its Doha fi fth year we could not be proud- er of how far it has progressed.” Adding praise, al-Thawadi Gladiator puts ocal football fans de- said, “It is tournaments such as scended upon the Aspire this that will produce the stars of Zone on Friday for an the future, which makes it a great exciting opening day of opportunity for the development Levents at the 2016 Al Kass Inter- of our Qatari players since they national Cup. get to compete against some of With the fi rst of three games the best clubs in the world.” kicking off at 4.30pm, supporters He added: “Qatar is ready for PSG to the sword in the stands were treated to an the FIFA World Cup 2022 and has evening of competitive drama that the world-class facilities, such as underscored precisely why this Aspire, to prove it, and it is com- Madrid were carving PSG open at will, cancelling out the French side’s attempts competition is a growing success. petitions such as Al Kass that Amongst those in the crowd to will enable our national team’s show their support for the com- performance to develop their to press, and then breaking at speed to wreak havoc in the opposition defence petition were Supreme Commit- world-class footballing skills in By Sports Reporter tee for Delivery & Legacy secre- time for 2022.” Doha Real Madrid’s Roman celebrates tary general Hassan al-Thawadi, Launching the games on the scoring against PSG in the Al Qatar Football Association gen- fi rst day of the competition was kass International Cup yesterday. eral secretary Mansoor al-Ansa- Spanish football legend Xavi eal Madrid thrashed PSG 4-0 in ri, Aspire Logistics director gen- Hernández, who performed the the Al Kass International Cup eral Abdulla Nasser al-Naimi and ceremonial kick-off . yesterday, with Adrian Roman Al Kass Organising Committee Clearly impressed by the fi rst scoring a fi ne hat-trick. chairman Essa Abdulla al-Hitmi. day’s games, al-Hitmi said, “It is R When the draw for the group stages Commenting on the launch truly a delight to watch such ex- was made, this was the match that cap- of the tournament, al-Ansari citing football on the fi rst day of tured the imagination. Two of world said, “We are very proud of this the fi fth edition of the Al Kass In- football’s biggest names going head-to- competition and its successes, ternational Cup 2016. This year head, with the winners taking a giant step one of which was the recent par- we are also proud to welcome six towards the knockout phase. And, from ticipation of the Under 23 Olym- new teams to the tournament, the fi rst whistle, both sides seemed to pic team in the Asian Cup, who and are happy to see GCC teams register what was at stake, with no quar- played in the fi rst edition of Al represented once again through ter given as the contest got underway. Kass International Cup. Al Ahli Saudi.” After surviving a few early scares Ma- “This competition is quickly The games are being shown drid quickly made PSG pay for their becoming an integral part of the on Al Kass TV with English and profl igacy as, on 10 minutes, they took development for sporting youth Arabic commentary, while also a deserved lead. The impressive Alberto in Qatar, and it certainly plays a being streamed live on the tour- Garcia cut in from the left and supplied big role for the national team and nament’s website http://inter- Adrian Roman on the edge of the area, the Qatar Football Association. nationalcup.alkass.net. who controlled before hammering home into the top left corner. The French youngsters were almost back on even terms within minutes, as Theo Epailly’s dangerous low corner from the right was touched on by Metehan Gu- clu at the near post, almost eluding Pu- jante, who only just managed to prevent the ball from squirming through his grasp and over the line. keeper saving smartly from Lohoba after testing Madrid’s backline. Inter forward Loca Kerin chased a With 20 minutes gone, the contrast- the forward was set free by Lopez. However, the Spaniards held fi rm and chipped ball through the middle, clipping ing styles of the two sides were becom- Respite would be brief however, as Real extended their lead on 54 minutes, after over the advancing keeper Kai Luan Lin ing apparent, with Los Blancos relying on doubled their lead four minutes later. Full Lopez won the ball on the right before and allowing Zate Gnoukouri to apply the guile and technique to retain possession back Gorka Cudola produced a wonder- feeding Roman with an impudent back fi nishing touch from less than a yard out. and push forward, while Les Parisians ful chipped pass from the halfway line heel, who completed his hat-trick with a Kerin nearly doubled the advantage favoured a more direct, high-energy ap- wide on the right, allowing Lohoba to run minimum of fuss. fi ve minutes later, intercepting a weak proach. clear and fi re home. To their credit, PSG refused to lie pass before shooting narrowly over from This approach almost paid off when Within minutes Los Blancos were down, and almost found an instant re- outside the area. But the Italians would Boubakary Soumare smashed a low drive three goals to the good, with Roman’s sponse, with Epailly fi ring home from not have to wait long for a second goal. from 25 yards out, forcing Pujante to dive fi rst time, side-footed eff ort fi nding the right of the area after latching on to a On 19 minutes a spectacular fi rst-time low to his left to divert the ball for a cor- the bottom right corner after a neat run through ball from Adli, only for the eff ort strike on the half-volley from wide on ner. and cutback from Garcia on the left. Al- to be ruled off side. the left by Marco Sala arced high into the Madrid should have been two up mo- though the smallest player on the pitch, On Friday, a confi dent and composed right-hand corner, leaving keeper Lin SPOTLIGHT ments later, when a sumptuous through the diminutive striker’s technical mas- Inter Milan side brushed aside Shang- with no chance. It was only the second ball from infl uential midfi elder El- tery was proving too much for the French hai Greenland in a one-sided game The goal of Al Kass 2016, but the Inter left- liot Lopez found Garcia. He twisted and defence. imperious Italians helped themselves to back’s wonder strike is undoubtedly a turned his man on the edge of the area, Madrid were carving PSG open at will, seven without reply, with the Chinese contender for goal of the tournament. Benfi ca and Aspire before rolling his eff ort beyond the right- cancelling out the French side’s attempts side unable to manage a single shot on The Chinese youngsters were strug- hand post when he might have done bet- to press, and then breaking at speed to target. gling to live with the precision passing ter. wreak havoc in the opposition defence. With Inter captain Enrico Celeghin of an ascendant Inter, with right-sided Football Dreams The Spaniards were by now well on Les Parisians will have been relieved to pulling the strings from a deep-lying attacker Gnoukouri proving a constant top, and were unlucky not to extend their hear the half time whistle, and could central midfi eld position, the Milanese threat. As the game approached the half- lead after 25 minutes, when Lopez’s le- count themselves lucky to be only three never looked less than comfortable. Still, hour mark he bagged a second goal, drib- share spoils thal in-swinging corner from the right goals down. in the opening stages chances were at a bling into the Blue Devils’ area before was met forcefully by captain Adrian PSG withdrew defender Tom Flamant premium, with the Nerazzurri seemingly slotting a low shot home off the right- Barquilla, whose terrifi c header slammed for Yacine Adli, and the substitution content to bide their time. hand post. By Sports Reporter to slot home, low to the left, from against the woodwork and clear. initially helped counter Madrid’s domi- In the 10th minute Shanghai made a Five minutes later and Inter were four Doha eight yards out. Despite PSG’s best eff orts to put their nance in the centre of the park, as the tall rare foray into the Italian half, a strong goals to the good, after the Chinese de- Within seconds of the restart, opponents under pressure, Real’s de- midfi elder began to display his impres- run from Luo Fan Liu forcing the fi rst fence was sliced apart by a series of short Loureiro was yellow carded for fence remained resolute, and Paris had sive range of passing. The Frenchmen be- corner of the game. It was expertly dealt passes through the middle before Kerin our goals, two missed impeding Nyanje as he sprinted Thomas Chesneau to thank for keep- gan the second period full of intent, with with by Inter’s assured back line, and a fi red into the roof of the net from 12 yards penalties, and countless towards the area. From the re- ing them in the game on 33 minutes, the a series of dangerous crosses into the area minute later Milan were ahead. out. chances illuminated a sultant dead ball, Souleymane gripping game between Aw chipped narrowly over. FBenfi ca and Aspire Football Seconds later, Demetrio Car- FIGHT Dreams at Al Kass 2016. valho turned from villain to hero Chances were few and far be- when he charged into the opposi- tween in the opening stages, tion area and went down under a as both sides sought to get the challenge that was judged illegal. measure of one another. Lining The referee pointed to the spot, Red Bull fi nd energy to overcome Celtic up in their famous red and white but keeper Abdul Nurudeen pro- attire, Benfi ca’s approach was duced a wonderful save, diving epitomised by man-mountain full stretch to his left to keep out By Sports Reporter On 55 minutes, number seven Keiran centre back Goncarlo Loureiro, Batista’s well-struck penalty. Doha Campbell was withdrawn in favour of compensating for a lack of pace Nurudeen’s heroics galvanised Christian Antoniazzi, as Celtic sought to with a strong physical presence Aspire and, on 71 minutes, they inject greater urgency into their approach and positional sense. Aspire’s doubled their advantage. Daniel ed Bull Salzburg emerged trium- play. But it was Salzburg who showed early attempts to play their quick Andrade cut in powerfully from phant against Celtic in the fi nal more fl uency in attack, keeping posses- forwards in were therefore frus- the right before feeding sub- match of a gripping opening sion as they worked to prise open the trated. stitute Konan N’dri, who ham- day at Al Kass 2016, following Scottish defence, with Cakir going close Benfi ca right back Diego Vilela mered home from the edge of the aR closely fought contest that could have from distance just after the hour mark. was fortunate to escape a book- area, Biai’s despairing touch not gone either way. Montie remained a constant threat, and ing on 14 minutes for scything enough to keep the ball out. The Austrians got the game underway, on 70 minutes he notched his second down Aboubakar Karamoko Just one minute later, follow- but it was the young Scots who should have goal, his low drive powering into the left- on the left side of the area. The ing a goalmouth scramble in taken an early lead. With just a minute on hand corner after Celtic had failed to chance came to nothing, but As- the Aspire area, Carlos Castro the clock, Michael Johnston fed strike part- clear their lines. pire were by now growing into blasted home, sparking scenes of ner Ciaran Diver through the middle, but It was already clear, though, that the the game. elation among the fervent Portu- his deft side-footed eff ort was well saved Bhoys team possessed a fi erce determina- And, on 19 minutes they guese support in the stands, and by keeper Felix Wilfi ng low to his left. It was tion, and their industry was rewarded on should have been ahead, when signalling a frenetic fi nale to an the only clear-cut chance of the opening 10 74 minutes when Diver powered home a Karamoko just failed to beat absorbing game. minutes, as both sides worked patiently to header from a corner on the right. keeper Celton Biai from eight Almost from the restart, Aspire fi nd their rhythm. Newly energised, Celtic fought anew yards out. Seconds later, the had a gilt-edged chance to put However, the understanding between Action from the match between Red Bull Salzburg (in white and red) and Celtic. for every ball as they searched for a pre- Benfi ca keeper did brilliantly the result beyond doubt. Livewire Celtic’s front two was becoming appar- cious equaliser. But their search soon once again to deny Sotigui Dia- N’dri evaded Silva’s despairing ent, and they combined well once again The stalemate was broken just after the exhorted his teammates to retain their proved futile when, on 79 minutes, Red bagate from point-blank range. lunge and burst into the area from on 12 minutes, with Wilfi ng bravely sav- half-hour mark, when Red Bull’s Kanan tactical composure. Bull’s Vesel Demaku beat right back However, the Reds almost the left before drawing a foul from ing at the feet of Diver following John- Kerim embarked on a strong run through Stumberger went close with a long- Stephen Welsh before delivering a telling went ahead on 27 minutes from a Carvalho. However, Nyanje could ston’s accurate low cross from the right. the middle before threading a pass into range eff ort shortly before half time but, cross for Dominik Szoboszlai. The substi- dead ball situation of their own, not convert the penalty that fol- In the 14th minute, Salzburg fash- the path of Abdelahim Montie. The pow- in keeping with a rather low-key opening tute had been on the pitch for a matter of when’s Diego Batista’s free kick lowed, shooting wide of the right ioned their fi rst real opportunity, when erful number nine made no mistake, tak- period, it did not test Celtic keeper Aidan minutes, but made no mistake, lashing a from the right was met with a hand post, the only false move he the classy Can Cakir gathered the ball 30 ing the ball in his stride before slotting McAdams. superbly controlled volley high into the diving header from Pedro Cor- had made all evening. yards out before smashing a curling eff ort home coolly from close range. The Red Bull team were out early for net to make it 3-1. reia that fl ashed just wide. This approach soon paid off just beyond the top left corner. The opening goal sparked a spell the second half, and quickly demonstrat- Despite Celtic’s best eff orts, they could The fi rst half drew to a close as, with time running out, Ben- With both teams seemingly well of dominance from Salzburg, and the ed that they remained in control of the not fi nd a way to reduce the defi cit, and with a goalless scoreline, but this fi ca adopted the route one tactic. matched, chances such as these were at young Austrians’ attacking play became contest as play got underway again. Their Red Bull ultimately ran out deserved win- fascinating contest burst into life Man-of-the-match Biaa blasted a premium. Instead, a fascinating tacti- increasingly coherent as half time ap- well-organised defence, led by dominant ners. The Austrian may have come into as the second period unfolded. the ball long from a drop kick, cal battle ensued, particularly in midfi eld proached. In response, Celtic occasion- captain Luca Meisl, was rarely troubled the tournament as one of the less fan- With just two minutes gone, Correia headed on, and substi- where Red Bull’s Domonik Stumberger ally resorted to a long-ball approach in an by the Bhoy’s frontline, and it was the cied sides, but after this display of skill Karamako robbed Silva before tute striker Ricardo Campos held and Celtic skipper Lewis Bell vied for su- eff ort to bypass the midfi eld, to the evi- Austrians who continued creating the and composure, there is a sense that they sprinting clear down the right off a desperate challenge to tuck premacy. dent displeasure of striker Johnston, who better chances. could go far at Al Kass 2016. and squaring for captain Nyanje the ball home. Gulf Times Sunday, February 7, 2016 3 FOOTBALL

EPL BUNDESLIGA Aubameyang fails to fi re as Mourinho Huth sends Leicester sees Dortmund draw

AFP at Ghent, Wolfsburg crashed Munich to a 3-0 defeat at Schalke to remain winless in their last fi ve games. clear, Spurs go 2nd ierre-Emerick Au- Dieter Hecking’s Wolves bameyang, the Bun- had few answers as Klaas-Jan desliga’s top-scorer, Huntelaar, Johannes Geis and ‘Now we are very, very confident and it is important to think about Arsenal’ failed to fi re yesterday new-signing Alessandro Sch- Pas Borussia Dortmund were oepf netted for Schalke. held to a goalless draw at Her- The result pushed the Royal tha Berlin with Jose Mourinho Blues up to fourth as Wolfs- watching in the stands. burg drop to eighth. Aubameyang, who has Stuttgart are now up to scored 20 league goals this 11th, fi ve points from the bot- season, had a rare off day at tom three, with their fourth Berlin’s Olympic Stadium, straight league win in a bad- managing just 11 touches, with tempered 4-2 victory at Ein- no shots on goal, in his 71 min- tracht Frankfurt as both sides utes. fi nished with 10 men. The Gabon forward—Af- Stuttgart raced into a 2-0 rica’s player of the year—was lead as Christian Gentner, eventually hauled off by Dort- then Daniel Didavi scored for mund coach Thomas Tuchel the visitors before but the lat- and was left scowling on the ter was shown a red card after bench. picking up a second booking Berlin’s Ivory Coast striker on 67 minutes. Salomon Kalou went close for Frankfurt captain Alex Mei- Hertha, while Vedad Ibise- er pulled it back to 2-1 with 40 vic was denied a second-half minutes left before Stuttgart penalty. pulled away with goals by de- The game failed to deliver as fender Georg Niedermeier and second-placed Dortmund re- Filip Kostic. main ten points clear of Her- Eintracht defender Carlos tha. Zambrano also saw red after Mourinho made a surprise being sent off 15 minutes from appearance in Berlin after be- time for his second booking. ing invited to the Olympic Frankfurt’s Szabolcs Huszti Stadium by Dortmund’s CEO then made it 4-2 by scoring in Hans-Joachim Watzke. the 90th minute. The visit came just 24 Hanover 96 remain rooted hours after Mourinho’s rep- to the bottom of the table af- resentatives reportedly held ter their 1-0 defeat at home to talks with Manchester United Mainz as Spanish midfi elder about replacing Louis van Gaal Jairo scored the fi rst-half win- as manager of the Premier ner. Ingolstadt won the Bavar- League club. ia derby with a 2-1 win at home The 53-year-old has been to Augsburg thanks to Moritz linked with the Old Traff ord Hartmann’s winning penalty post since being sacked by fi ve minutes from time. Chelsea in December. On Friday, Borussia Dortmund’s result means Moenchengladbach got back leaders Bayern Munich can to winning ways with a 5-1 go 10 points clear if they win thrashing of strugglers Werder at Bayer Leverkusen on Sat- Bremen as teenage Danish de- urday night. Less than a fort- fender Andreas Christensen, Leicester City’s German defender Robert Huth (R) celebrates after scoring his second goal during the English Premier League match against Manchester City in Manchester. (AFP) night before their Champions on loan from Chelsea, netted League last 16, fi rst-leg clash twice. AFP because we spent a lot of energy. by Pep Guardiola at the season’s Nothing is fi nished,” said Pel- Sunderland’s comeback, with London Sometimes we run more than end,Results admitted & that standings Leicester had legrini, whose side host Totten- Johnson curling in a free-kick a bull. We play every match as ham next weekend. before Defoe equalised. though it is the last match. Manchester City. . . . . 1 Leicester City ...... 3 “It is important for us to re- Everton leapt four places to Aston Villa...... 2 Norwich City...... 0 Hazard reveals Mourinho apology eicester City’s fairy- “Now we are very, very confi - Liverpool ...... 2 Sunderland...... 2 cover our players and I am con- seventh, above Liverpool on goal tale season scaled new dent and it is important to think Newcastle...... 1 West Bromwich...... 0 tinuing not giving up because we diff erence, with an impressive Eden Hazard sent a text message to Jose Mourinho after his heights yesterday as they about Arsenal. We are ready to Totten. Hotspur ...... 1 Watford ...... 0 got an unexpected defeat, but we 3-0 win at Stoke City. sacking to apologise for his poor form, the Chelsea winger opened up a fi ve-point fi ght there.” Stoke City ...... 0 Everton...... 3 must continue.” All of Everton’s goals came in revealed in a British newspaper interview published yesterday. Llead at the Premier League sum- Leicester were bottom of the Swansea City...... 1 Crystal Palace...... 1 the fi rst half, Romelu Lukaku net- “I sent him the message to say I was sorry he had gone and mit by winning 3-1 at title rivals Premier League 12 months ago Newcastle escape drop zone ting an 11th-minute penalty before ... well ... just that I was sorry,” Hazard told The Guardian. “We’d Manchester City. and seemingly destined for rele- Standings P W D L F A Pts Tottenham enhanced their Seamus Coleman and Aaron Len- enjoyed all that success together last season, but this time round Centre-back Robert Huth gation, but are now closing in one Leicester City 25 15 8 2 47 27 53 own title chances by defeating non found the net. we hadn’t.” scored twice, either side of a of the most sensational triumphs Totten. Hotspur 25 13 9 3 45 19 48 Watford courtesy of a 64th- There was also movement at the Hazard, 25, swept the board in last season’s player of the year Man. City 25 14 5 6 47 26 47 brilliant Riyad Mahrez goal, as in English sporting history. Arsenal 24 13 6 5 37 22 45 minute goal from right-back bottom of the table, with New- awards after Chelsea won a Premier League and League Cup Leicester recorded the fi nest win Huth opened the scoring from Manchester Utd 24 11 7 6 31 21 40 Kieran Trippier, who tapped in castle United moving out of the double. of their sensational 12-month a third-minute Mahrez free-kick West Ham Utd 24 10 9 5 38 28 39 a delightful left-wing cross from relegation zone after beating West But his form has nose-dived this season, mirroring the fortunes rise from bottom to top of the and headed in Leicester’s third Everton 25 8 11 6 46 34 35 substitute Dele Alli. Bromwich Albion 1-0 courtesy of a of the team, whose record of nine defeats in their opening 16 English top fl ight. goal on the hour after Mahrez Liverpool 25 9 8 8 32 36 35 Elsewhere, Adam Johnson and cool Aleksandar Mitrovic fi nish in league game saw Mourinho sacked as manager in December. Tottenham Hotspur leap- had darted through the ragged Southampton 24 9 7 8 32 24 34 Jermain Defoe scored as second- the 32nd minute. “I felt a little bit guilty because I’d been player of the year,” added Watford 25 9 6 10 27 27 33 frogged City into second place City defence to make it 2-0. Stoke City 25 9 6 10 24 31 33 bottom Sunderland came from Norwich City took their place in Hazard, who is yet to score in the league this season. by beating Watford 1-0 and Sergio Aguero reduced the ar- Crystal Palace 25 9 5 11 26 30 32 2-0 down to snatch a 2-2 draw the bottom three after losing 2-0 “I’d been one of the most decisive players, and this year I’d Arsenal can also move above rears with a glancing header in Chelsea 24 7 8 9 32 34 29 at Liverpool, whose manager Ju- at bottom club Aston Villa, who performed less well. I hadn’t been at the same level. So I sent that Manuel Pellegrini’s side if they the 87th minute—his seventh West Bromwich 25 7 8 10 23 32 29 rgen Klopp was absent due to a scored through Joleon Lescott text to Jose and he came back to me, wishing me all the best for win at Bournemouth today. goal in fi ve games. Bournemouth 24 7 7 10 29 39 28 suspected bout of appendicitis. and Gabriel Agbonlahor. Villa are the future. “There are a lot of super teams British bookmakers reacted Swansea City 25 6 9 10 24 33 27 Despite losing Dejan Lovren now eight points from safety with Newcastle 25 6 6 13 26 44 24 “For a team of champions to go through what we have this year, now. We will try. Why not?” to Leicester’s victory by making Norwich City 25 6 5 14 28 48 23 and Joe Allen to injury, Liverpool 13 matches to play. Crystal Palace even I can’t explain. Things have been better recently, but we’re said Leicester manager Claudio them title favourites for the fi rst Sunderland 25 5 5 15 30 49 20 went 2-0 up through Roberto ended a run of fi ve straight defeats still not winning games quite as we used to. Ranieri, whose side visit Arsenal time this season. Aston Villa 25 3 7 15 20 40 16 Firmino and Adam Lallana. with a 1-1 draw at Swansea City, “No one can put his finger on what’s happened at Chelsea.” in another top-of-the-table en- A year ago to the day, they were But Liverpool’s fans deserted where Gylfi Sigurdsson’s 13th- Chelsea, with interim manager Guus Hiddink now at the helm, counter next weekend. three points from safety at the been worthy winners, but vowed the stadium en masse in the 77th minute free-kick for the hosts was host Manchester United in the league today. “The eff ort is a lot. Now it is foot of the table. City manager that his side would not give up. minute in protest at rising ticket cancelled out by a close-range important the players recover Pellegrini, due to be succeeded “There are 36 points to play for. prices and it proved the spur for Scott Dann eff ort.

LA LIGA Torres nets 100th goal, Atletico keep pressure on Barca

AFP Atletico were stunned a minute after the Madrid restart when Niguez - who was deputising out of position at centre-back - slipped and allowed Sergi Enrich to square for Keko to ernando Torres scored his 100th calmly lift the ball over the advancing Jan Atletico Madrid goal as Los Roji- Oklak to open the scoring. blancos came from behind to move The goal shocked Atletico into action and level on points with Barcelona at the they turned the game around with two goals topF of La Liga thanks to a 3-1 win over Eibar in eight minutes. yesterday. Firstly, Gimenez powered in at the near Central defensive pairing Jose Maria post to meet Koke’s in-swinging corner for Gimenez and Saul Niguez headed home his fi rst goal of the season. corners after Keko had fi red Eibar into a And from another dangerous Koke cor- shock lead just after half-time before Torres ner, Saul was left unmarked to head in de- ended a fi ve-month goal drought in stop- spite Abel Riesgo getting a hand to his eff ort. page time. Yannick Carrasco fi red inches wide and Barca, who have two games in hand on Luciano Vietto had a goal narrowly ruled Atletico, travel to face Levante on Sunday. out for off side as Atletico looked to kill the Atletico’s fi rst win in fi ve games also game off . opens up a four-point lead over third- Torres was giving a standing ovation as placed Real Madrid, who are also in action he was brought on for the fi nal 15 minutes on Sunday away at Granada. with his future at the club beyond the end Diego Simeone’s men were without of the season uncertain due to a transfer ban four defenders as Diego Godin, Filipe Luis hanging over the club which could prevent and Juanfran were all suspended from last Atletico making his loan move from AC Mi- weekend’s 2-1 defeat at Barcelona, whilst lan permanent. Stefan Savic was injured. However, the former Liverpool and Chel- However, their makeshift defence wasn’t sea did fi nally fi nd the net for the fi rst time tested in a fi rst-half short on chances as An- since the sides last met in September when toine Griezmann volleyed over from a nar- Vietto’s excellent low cross left him with the row angle, whilst Angel Correa had a strong simple task of tapping into an empty net in penalty waived away. stoppage time. Fernando Torres celebrates after scoring 100th goal for Atletico Madrid yesterday. (Reuters) Gulf Times 4 Sunday, February 7, 2016 FOOTBALL

QSL LIGUE 1 Monaco boost Champions League Tabata’s wonder goal hopes with Nice win

AFP sive 24-point lead with their Paris fourth consecutive and sixth overall league title beckoning. The Parisians have won iemoue Bakayoko their past eight ‘Classique’ as Rayyan claim late struck late to boost clashes with Marseille, and 10-man Monaco’s another would give them a hopes of Champions new record of consecutive TLeague football next season wins against their rivals. with the only goal of their dour “To win we have to stick 1-0 Riveria derby win against to our philosophy. We can’t Nice on Saturday. change it during a Classique,” Despite being a clash be- said Brazilian defender Max- win over Mesaimeer tween the second and third well, who has never been on placed Ligue 1 teams it failed the losing side in 10 previous to ignite the Stade Louis II and meetings with Marseille. Rayyan now boast a 13-point lead at the top as they target a first Falcon Shield since 1995 had looked to be heading for a “We’re in a good place. We goalless draw before Bakayoko have to be confi dent, and have struck after 81 minutes. the same desire we’ve shown A long free-kick off the up until now. That makes the boot of Portuguese midfi elder diff erence in these matches.” Moutinho found Bakayoko Marseille, who claimed the who slotted in after the ball last of their ten Ligue 1 titles had bounced in front of Nice back in 2010, are eighth in the goalkeeper Yoan Cardinale. league -- 32 points behind The win allows Monaco, PSG. A 1-0 victory at Montpel- second behind runaway Ligue lier Tuesday pushed Marseille’s 1 leaders Paris Saint-Germain, unbeaten league run to 11 to move six points clear of Nice, matches, with their last away who stay third but whose posi- loss a 2-1 defeat to PSG at the tion is now threatened by An- Parc de Princes on October 4. gers, two points behind, who But that impressive statistic host Lyon later on Saturday. conceals misery at their Velo- Apart from the goal the drome stronghold where they only incident of note dur- have not won since September ing the match was the send- 13. Blanc’s side will be look- ing off of Monaco’s Moroccan ing to further fl ex their mus- midfi elder Nabil Dirar after he cles with a Champions League vigorously disputed a call by last 16 tie against Chelsea on referee Tony Chapron. Reign- February 16. But counterpart ing three-time champions Michel can count on the sup- Paris Saint-Germain will be port of their loyal fans with looking to extend their Ligue PSG’s supporters banned from 1 unbeaten streak at bitter ri- travelling to Marseille because vals Marseille on Sunday as of security concerns. the hosts bid to end their own Marseille will be without record winless run at home. newly-signed winger Florian Thauvin after he received a PSG bid to extend red card against Montpellier, unbeaten run at Marseille but Scotland striker Steven Paris Saint-Germain will be Fletcher, also a transfer win- looking to extend their Ligue 1 dow signing, should give the unbeaten streak at bitter rivals southern giants fresh legs. Marseille today as the hosts “It’s a match we have to win, bid to end their own record for the club, for the fans and winless run at home. above all for us,” said Marseille Laurent Blanc’s champions midfi elder Remy Cabella. stretched their unbeaten run to “If we got a result against a record 33 matches with a 3-1 Paris it would give us a boost.” win over Lorient midweek and Striker Georges-Kevin Nk- next tackle Marseille who have oudou added: “I know that not won at their Velodrome there is always pressure be- Stadium since September. tween Paris and Marseille, but PSG—with 66 points from it remains a classic, and it’s up 24 games—have an impres- to us to rise to the occasion.” Rayyan’s Tabata (R) battles for the ball with Mesaimeer’s Rashid Mohamed during their Qatar Stars League match yesterday. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil

By Sports reporter 13-point lead at the top as they break when Soria clattered into In the end, Rayyan’s persist- leapfrog Wakrah in the table and Doha target a fi rst Falcon Shield since Adama Traore. Mesaimeer’s ence paid off as they claimed a make it fi ve games unbeaten. ‘No conditions to new PSG contract’ 1995. players surrounded the referee, fi fth win in a row. Tabata’s bril- Brazilian striker Julio Cesar Jorge Fossati’s men had three demanding Soria be sent off . liant free-kick clipped the bar on scored the only goal at Saoud Bin Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) coach Laurent Blanc insisted that aptain Rodrigo Tabata’s goals disallowed and also had to However the man in the middle its way past Zaidan, who could Abdel Rahman Stadium. Mad- negotiations with the Ligue 1 giants over a contract extension stunning free-kick and contend with an inspired per- waited patiently before bran- do nothing to stop an eff ort sen’s 26th minute free-kick from were advancing and were not linked to success in the Champi- a late header from Fahad formance from Mesaimeer goal- dishing a yellow card for the Qa- which David Beckham would distance ricocheted off the post ons League. Khalfan gave Al Rayyan keeper Basel Zaidan. Time and tari international. have been proud of. and, with goalkeeper Hassan “It’s moving forward, I don’t like talking about my particular case allC three points against Me- again the on-loan El Jaish stop- Rayyan piled on the pressure Khalfan’s goal in the dying Dicko stranded, Cesar produced too much, but stay patient a little longer and you’ll soon have saimeer after a tetchy encounter per prevented Rayyan from tak- in the second half but Mesaimeer embers of the game simply con- a brilliant acrobatic fi nish from news,” said Blanc whose contract expires in June. at Grand Hamad Stadium. ing the lead. remained resolute in defence. fi rmed the result and sent the six yards out. Asked if there were conditions attached with the reigning three- Tabata produced a perfect He produced a good double Tabata, Soria and Sergio Garcia travelling fans into raptures. The Blue Waves pushed for- time Ligue 1 winners facing Chelsea in the Champions League right-footed eff ort from just save in the 12th minute to deny all created openings, but were There are nine games to go in ward in the second half in search last 16 on February 16. outside the box in the 89th Soria’s close-range shot and, either off -target or not good the QSL season but Rayyan look of an equaliser but they failed “The club called us to tell us that they wanted to extend and that minute, before Khalfan nodded moments later, a 30-yard eff ort enough to beat Zaidan. nailed on to claim the title, and to penetrate Khor’s steadfast I know it has no conditions.” in Sebastian Soria’s cross in add- from Tabata. His best save came Mesaimeer created little in the with it a stunning return to the defence, which was well mar- Former France international Blanc arrived at PSG in 2013 after ed time to secure the Lions’ 16th late on though when he tipped game but were unlucky not to be top division. shalled by veteran Qatari de- Italian Carlo Ancelotti left for Real Madrid, despite the initial win of a memorable campaign. Babou Barro’s cross-cum-shot awarded a penalty late on. Rayy- Earlier, Al Khor moved up to fender Waleed Mohyaden. reservations of the club’s Qatari owners who wanted a bigger- It was a deserved victory for over the bar in the 86th minute. an goalkeeper Omar Bari looked eighth position in the QSL after a The result is the perfect tonic named manager. Rayyan after a largely frustrat- There was an edge to the game to have fouled a Mesaimeer at- 1-0 victory over Al Wakrah. for Khor, who will go into next But the 50-year-old had his contract extended in 2014, and has ing night against the league’s throughout the opening half and tacker but the referee waved play The Knights followed up last week’s match with runaway so far won eight trophies with the Parisians, last year achieving bottom side. They stuck to their the spiky on-fi eld atmosphere on. It was a huge let off for the week’s 1-0 win over El Jaish with leaders Al Rayyan full of confi - an unprecedented domestic quadruple. task however, and now boast a came to a head just before the leaders. another strong performance to dence.

SPOTLIGHT Jailed Uruguayan reaches plea bargain in FIFA case Montevideo: The former worth $9 million, Gomez said: head of the South American “We can say the total is more Football Confederation (Con- than 10 million dollars.” The ‘Plenty left in 31-year-old Ronaldo’ mebol) has agreed to hand deal could help Figueredo over more than $10 million in reduce his potential jail time AFP do sets himself having scored 343 goals stocks and property in a deal by up to half the maximum 15 Madrid in 328 games since joining Madrid sev- to reduce his punishment in years sentence, Gomez said. en years ago. the FIFA corruption scandal, a The former FIFA executive “I feel admiration towards him, for prosecutor in the case said. committee member has been eal Madrid boss Zinedine the goals he scores, for everything he Eugenio Figueredo, a former in custody since May and is Zidane has insisted three- does, because all lovers of football also FIFA vice president, also hoping to be allowed home time World Player of the Year adore Cristiano,” added Zidane. agreed to cooperate with under house arrest, a right Cristiano Ronaldo still has “Above all, I like his ambition. His police in Uruguay, where the given to defendants over the plentyR more years at the top of the ambition to always want more and to 83-year-old is from. He was age of 70. game thanks to his superb physical be better. He is never happy with what extradited to the South Amer- More than 40 people and condition. he has and you see that in training.” ican country in December. entities have been charged Ronaldo turned 31 on Friday and has “I admire him and I hope that he will Figueredo was arrested in since May by U.S. justice off i- been questioned for his failure to de- continue like this because he is an im- Zurich last May as part of the cials investigating corruption liver his best performances in the big portant player for me, the players and sweeping investigation into inside FIFA. games this season despite scoring a re- all Madrid fans.” corruption at soccer’s govern- markable 30 goals in 28 games. Zidane has an impressive record of ing body. He faces charges of Former FIFA watchdog Zidane retired at Madrid at just 34, three wins and a draw from four games money laundering and taking member Watson jailed but believes Ronaldo has the physical since taking over from Rafael Benitez kickbacks to sell media and A former member of world capabilities to go on longer, and hopes last month and Madrid continue their marketing rights for soccer soccer body FIFA’s financial he also fi nishes his career at the San- chase of Barcelona in the La Liga title tournaments and matches watchdog has been sen- tiago Bernabeu. race at Granada on Sunday. across the Americas. tenced to seven years in “All being well Cristiano can play However, Zidane insisted he won’t “He reached a deal, as prison in the Cayman Islands longer than me for sure,” said the rush Gareth Bale back from a calf inju- mandated under the law, that after being found guilty Frenchman on Saturday. ry with the Welshman being protected includes handing over 12 or of fraud, his lawyer said. “He feels the responsibility to look ahead of Madrid’s return to Champi- 13 properties plus bank ac- Canover Watson, who was a after himself and you can see it. He is ons League action against Roma on counts and rights to shares he member of FIFA’s Audit and 31, but physically he is a beast. February 17. had invested in,” Uruguayan Compliance Committee, was “He can continue for many more “We have preferred to wait a little prosecutor Juan Gomez told found guilty of five charges years and hopefully they are here in because he is better but not completely Reuters. related to his time in charge Madrid.” recovered,” said Zidane. The properties include nine of the Caribbean nation’s Zidane also highlighted his admira- “It was best to for him to go bit-by- that were embargoed in June Health Service Authority. tion for the exacting standards Ronal- bit.” Gulf Times Sunday, February 7, 2016 5 GOLF Ko, Jang share DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC 3rd-round lead Reuters Ocala, Florida McIlroy makes late orld number one Lydia Ko (pic) shrugged off a late rules scare to earn a share of the third- Wround lead with Jang Ha-na at the Coates Golf Championship in central Florida on Friday. On a day when nobody could complete the third round due to a thunderstorm on Thursday that put the event behind schedule, Ko and Jang both completed six charge as Willett holes on the Golden Ocala course. They were seven-under par when play was halted in semi-darkness on an unusually cold day that prompted many players to wear several layers of clothing for protection from the biting northerly wind. Ko and Jang had a one-stroke lead over five players, including long-hitting American Lexi Thompson (seven holes), while 2014 US Women’s Open champion Michelle takes one-shot lead Wie (12 holes) was four shots behind. Ko started the round one stroke back of Jang but made birdie on the par-three fourth to move into a tie ‘Played some great golf yesterday and today. Kept the ball under fantastic control with for the lead. She lamented some birdie putts that did not drop. “I’ve just got to stay positive with the putter, but some crosswinds, hit it in there close. Did everything right really. A couple hiccups in there sometimes you just have to take what’s going, and it’s not like every single one of them is not dropping,” the where it could have been a little diff erent, but kept the head on and kept moving forward’ South Korean-born Kiwi teenager told reporters. While putting on the par-four sixth hole Ko had to take a step back because she wasn’t sure whether she brushed the ball at her address. Danny Willett of England tees “Yeah, I wasn’t sure because it’s obviously getting a lit- off on the first hole during the tle dark, and with the steepness of the greens, you never third round of the Dubai Desert know if it does move or not,” she said. Classic yesterday. (Reuters) “The rules, we cleared everything, so now I can just go to bed and have a good dinner and come out here early, but this happened to me last year at this tourna- ment, the second round or something, and it happened at KPMG, too, so I just wanted to clarify it so it wouldn’t be a problem,” added the 10-times LPGA winner. Off icials subsequently viewed TV footage of the incident, but detected no movement. “You just want to make sure before you putt it out. I’ve had times where it has moved before, so I just wanted to clarify things, especially when it’s that dark. I just want to make sure so that there are no further problems later on and then I can sleep peacefully,” she explained. Jang, meanwhile, said she was feeling “very confi- dent” about her game as the 23-year-old plots a first LPGA victory, after four runner-up finishes last year. Jang, who also held the first round lead, had a one- shot cushion over Ko and Japan’s Haru Nomura after Friday morning’s completion of the second round. Her third round began with a birdie on the par-four opening hole, then she followed it up with a bogey on No. 2. American Kim Kaufman got off to a fast start on Friday afternoon, moving into a share of the lead by making birdies on four of her first eight holes before dropping a shot at the par four 10th. Kaufman was tied for third at six-under par through 12 holes, along with Jessica Korda, Thompson and Nomura. Taiwan’s Candie Kung and rookie Chun In-Gee were tied for eighth at five-under. Chun, who will continue her round at the 10th hole, bounced back from two early bogeys with three birdies in her last five holes of the day.

AFP spair of his career came in Dubai when he Willett was delighted with his form and “It’s going to be a long shot. I came back Dubai was leading the DP World Tour Champion- said: “We came off the fi rst obviously bogey from seven shots behind at Wentworth ship by two shots before losing to Henrik in two days on 12, which was playing pretty (2014), so it’s not out of the realms of pos- Stenson in 2014 when he made a triple bo- tricky today. sibility, but this is a great fi eld.” anny Willett underlined his grow- gey on the 16th hole on Sunday. “So, come off a silly fi ve there and two ing stature in European golf when World number two Rory McIlroy was lan- fi ve-woods, a little bit of a diff erent story to a second consecutive round of guishing eight shots behind the leader. Thursday when we bounced off the rocks. Leading scores (after Rd 3) seven-under par 65 at the Emir- The Northern Irishman was two-over par Today, I hit a good one and saw a pretty good 200: Danny Willett (ENG) 70-65-65 Dates Golf Club yesterday gave him sole pos- after a terrible front nine, but then made six line straightaway. 201: Rafael Cabrera-Bello (ESP) 67-67-67 session of the lead going into the fi nal round birdies on the back nine to fi nish on 68. “Played some great golf yesterday and 202: Andy Sullivan (ENG) 70-66-66, of the Dubai Desert Classic. Henrik Stenson, the second best ranked today. Kept the ball under fantastic control 203: Joost Luiten (NED) 69-67-67 The Englishman broke though a tight lea- player in the fi eld at number six, was one with some crosswinds, hit it in there close. 204: Hadyn Porteus (RSA) 72-66-66, derboard with a superb eagle on the par-5 shot better than McIlroy at nine-under par “Did everything right really. A couple 205: Scott Hend (AUS) 71-68-66, Chris Wood (ENG) 68-68-69 13th hole and ended the day one shot ahead after a 70. hiccups in there today where it could have 206: Soren Kjeldsen (DEN) 70-70-66, Nathan Hol- of Spain’s Rafael Cabrera-Bello on 16-under Three-time Dubai Desert Classic cham- been a little diff erent, but kept the head on man (AUS) 69-70-67, Brett Rumford (AUS) 67-70-69, par 200. pion Ernie Els, who started the day one shot and kept moving forward.” Thorbjorn Olesen (DEN) 72-64-70 Cabrera-Bello, the 2012 champion here, behind overnight leader Cabrera-Bello, McIlroy felt the front nine had killed his 207: Joachim B Hansen (SWE) 72-71-64, Mikko submitted his third straight card of fi ve- struggled all day and for the fi rst time in chances this week. In the last two rounds, he Ilonen (FIN) 70-70-67, Bryson DeChambeau (USA) under par 67, while England’s Andy Sullivan the history of the tournament, he posted an is fi ve-over par for the front nine, and nine- 70-69-68, Byeong-hun An (KOR) 71-67-69, Graeme was third one behind the Spaniard at 202 af- over-par third-round score of 74. under par for the back. Storm (ENG) 68-70-69, Richard Bland (ENG) 69-69- 69, Henrik Stenson (SWE) 69-68-70, Alvaro Quiros ter a round of 66. Willett, who saw his ball miraculously “I just think I haven’t quite fi gured out (ESP) 68-69-70, Trevor Fisher Jnr (RSA) 67-68-72 All three players have something to prove bounce out of water on the opening day, the front nine yet. Obviously, I’ve played the 208: Roope Kakko (FIN) 72-69-67, Alejandro Cani- in Dubai. needed no such luck on Saturday. back nine much better,” said the two-time zares (ESP) 71-69-68, Tyrrell Hatton (ENG) 70-70- Willett fi nished second in the Race to Du- He hit the ball well, making 14 greens in Dubai Desert Classic champion. 68, Rory McIlroy (NIR) 68-72-68, Bradley Dredge bai to Rory McIlroy after his brave attempt regulation, but putted even better, needing “There is more chances on the back nine (WAL) 70-70-68, Bernd Wiesberger (AUT) 68-71-69, went down to the wire at last year’s DP just 26 putts to complete the round. and more opportunities for birdies, but you Johan Carlsson (SWE) 71-67-70 World Tour Championship here. The highlight of the round was the eagle know, there’s no reason why I shouldn’t be 209: Nicholas Colsaerts (BEL) 73-70-66, Gregory Bourdy (FRA) 72-71-66, George Coetzee (RSA) 72- In that same tournament, a McIlroy win three on the 13th hole, where he drained playing better golf on the front nine. 70-67, Gregory Havret (FRA) 71-70-68, Ross Fisher had denied Sullivan the title and he fi nished a curling 40-footer putt. That came mo- “That’s really what’s cost me this week. (ENG) 70-71-68, Ben Evans (ENG) 69-71-69, James runner-up. ments after he had made his only bogey of I might be just a few shots too far back to Morrison (ENG) 69-70-70, Gary Stal (FRA) 70-68-71, Cabrera-Bello’s biggest moment of de- the last two rounds on the 12th hole. make that up tomorrow. Ernie Els (RSA) 68-67-74 Fun-loving Hahn moves to one-stroke lead in Phoenix

Reuters joint leaders with Fowler after the “It’s the one week out of the year Scottsdale, Arizona weather-delayed opening round, where you’re allowed to do anything Norris races ahead were a further two shots back in a you want and not get fined,” he tie for fourth with American Harris explained. “So the fact that the PGA in Myanmar Open ames Hahn, renowned for his English (67). Tour is a little lenient on us doing ‘Gangnam Style’ moves at the TPC Enjoyment was the watchword whatever things you want to do on South African Shaun Norris claimed a seven- JScottsdale in 2013, used a fast for Hahn, who claimed his first PGA that hole, it’s good for golf, good for James Hahn lines up shot lead over his rivals in the third round of start and solid finish to edge one shot Tour title in a three-way playoff for the game, good for the fans.” a putt during the 2nd the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open, the country’s clear after Friday’s second round of the last year’s Northern Trust Open, as he ‘Gangnam Style’ was a blockbuster round of Phoenix richest sporting event, at the Royal Mingalardon Phoenix Open at the same venue. totalled only 25 putts in breezy condi- hit single recorded by the South Open in Scottsdale, Golf and Country Club in Yangon yesterday. The 34-year-old, who was born tions to take over at the top. Korean musician Psy in 2012. Psy’s Arizona. (AFP) The one-time Asian Tour winner started the in South Korea but educated in the “Fun, I’m having fun out there,” a video is the most watched ever on day tied for first with India’s SSP Chawrasia but United States and now lives close to smiling Hahn told reporters. YouTube, with more than 2.5 billion stormed ahead of the pack with a 11-under-par the Scottsdale layout, fired a flawless “I’m making a lot of putts, hitting views, while Hahn’s rendition has had 61. The big drive brought him up to a three-day 65 to post a 10-under halfway total of a lot of fairways, giving myself many more than 364,000 views. total of 23-under-par 193. 132 in front of an announced record opportunities to make birdie. Fowler, who missed the cut at last “It was definitely a very exciting day,” Norris Friday attendance of more than “And I’m sleeping in my own bed week’s Farmers Insurance Open after said. “Right from the start, everything went well. 160,000 fans. this week. I live about 10 minutes winning the previous week at the I could read the line and was striking it well, hit- Bidding for his second PGA Tour away from here. I’m looking forward European Tour’s Abu Dhabi Champi- ting the ball into places which I wanted it to be.” victory, Hahn birdied three of his first to a good weekend.” onship, was delighted to maintain his Japan’s Azuma Yano provided another high- six holes and three of the last eight Hahn has always enjoyed having new-found form on the greens. light when he landed his first albatross on the to end a sunny day in the Arizona fun and became a YouTube sensation Three-times former winner Phil 14th, moving him up to second place alongside desert one ahead of American world three years ago when he followed a Mickelson, a popular figure at Chawrasia and Korea’s Wang Jeunghun. number four Rickie Fowler (68) and final-round birdie on the raucous par- Scottsdale after attending the nearby “Keeping the ball on the fairways was tough New Zealand’s Danny Lee (66). three 16th hole at the Phoenix Open Arizona State University, was a dis- today but I managed to stay patient and my Japanese Hideki Matsuyama (70) with his rendition of the ‘Gangnam tant eight strokes off the pace after game really lifted off after that albatross where I and Irishman Shane Lowry (70), Style’ dance. carding a 71. had another two birdies on 15 and 18,” Yano said. Gulf Times 6 Sunday, February 7, 2016 SUPER BOWL

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Aikman sees Panthers as possible Manning chases powerhouse

Reuters San Francisco crowning glory hree-time Super Bowl winning quarterback Troy Aikman (pic- tured) says the Carolina If the veteran manages to mastermind an upset over Panthers in Super Bowl 50, TPanthers could be on the brink of a blockbuster run in the National it will be the crowning achievement of a career that once looked to be in decline Football League if they can avoid pitfalls that can come with suc- cess. Hall of Famer Aikman, who head coach, unfortunately, Jim- won three Super Bowl rings in a my (coach Johnson) and Jerry four-year stretch in the 1990s, (owner Jones) but with the team said the emergence of quar- there wasn’t.” terback Cam Newton and the That clash of Texas-sized egos Panthers’ core of young players led to the exit of coach Johnson could make the Panthers a per- and the arrival of Barry Switzer. ennial powerhouse. Aikman said smooth sailing Carolina, 17-1 this season, was the exception and not the is nearly a touchdown favorite rule in the NFL. against the Denver Broncos for “That’s kind of unusual. That’s Sunday’s Super Bowl 50 at Levi’s not typical. When you have young Stadium in the suburb of Santa players and then all of a sudden Clara. they hit this stage and they achieve “First off , can they keep them something, will they be able to intact with the salary cap and continue? That will be the chal- who you pay,” Aikman told Reu- lenge for Ron Rivera.” ters in an interview. Aikman, a paragon of accu- Aikman noted the quality racy throwing the football, said young players powering the Pan- for all of the 26-year-old New- thers in Pro Bowlers Newton, ton’s powerful rushing as a dual- linebacker Luke Kuechly, cor- threat signal caller, he has been nerback Josh Norman and their impressed with his passing. beefy defensive tackles Lotulelei “He’s made some unbeliev- Starr and Kawann Short. able throws,” said Aikman, who “They’re built for the nucleus like Newton, was the number one to be there for a while,” he said. player taken in the draft (in 1989). Then come some intangible “As much as he’s done running factors. the football and as hard as he is “But you never know the ef- to defend because of that, the fect human nature is going to have reason that this team is playing on these guys,” said Aikman. “If in this game is because of what they were to win this week, is that he’s been able to do throwing the hunger still there? Does it look the football.” same, does it feel the same? Aikman, who retired after the “The teams I was on when we 2000 season, faced an unexpect- were able to win three (Super ed challenge of his own near the Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning addresses the media during a press conference prior to Super Bowl 50 in Santa Clara. (USA TODAY Sports ) Bowls) in four years, I can hon- end of his NFL career. estly tell you that there was never “I was diagnosed with AFP adversity once more to reach his fourth FAREWELL APPEARANCE? week: “He’s gonna need more than one any animosity, or internal strife melanoma (skin cancer) in 1998,” San Francisco Super Bowl, where he is chasing a second Many pundits believe it could be Man- Super Bowl victory.” in trying to gain more recogni- said Aikman. championship ring to book-end the one he ning’s farewell appearance after 18 years Yet others reject the idea that Manning tion for what any one of us had Aikman said he got educated collected with the Colts in 2007. in the NFL which have seen him accumu- needs a second Super Bowl win to cement accomplished.” quickly about the dangers of the hether he wins or loses to- The nadir of a rollercoaster season late more passing yards than any other his place in the annals of the game. Strife free for the Cowboys, at disease and now has partnered day, Peyton Manning has came in November when he produced a quarterback. “This is not a make-or-break game for least among the players. with Novartis in an awareness already assured himself a career-worst performance in a defeat to That speculation intensifi ed after his Peyton. His legacy is already set,” said the “There was none of that. campaign for those with ad- place in American football’s Kansas City, featuring just fi ve comple- comment to New England coach Bill Beli- Denver Broncos general manager John There was with our owner and vanced melanoma. Wpantheon of greats. tions for 35 yards and four interceptions. chick in the AFC title game that it “might Elway. But if the veteran Denver Broncos Manning was benched for the fi rst time be my last rodeo.” “He’s already going to go down as one quarterback manages to mastermind an in his career thereafter, losing his place to Manning has consistently batted of the greatest players to ever play the upset over the Carolina Panthers in Super deputy Brock Osweiler. away questions about his retirement, game so if anything, this will do is just Relaxed Goodell back in control Bowl 50 it will be the crowning achieve- But a refreshed Manning returned for insisting that no decision has been add to that legacy.” ment of a career that once looked to be in the play-off s and rewarded head coach made. “I haven’t made my mind up and Not surprisingly, Manning’s younger and charting new course terminal decline. Gary Kubiak by piloting the team through I don’t see myself making a decision sibling Eli, a two-time Super Bowl-win- Manning, 39, faced a bleak future in wins over Pittsburgh and New England. until after the season,” Manning said on ner with the New York Giants, agreed. A much more relaxed Roger Goodell 2011 when neck surgeries left him strug- “There is no question it’s important Monday. “Honestly, I think there’s maybe too (pictured) delivered his Super Bowl gling to throw properly, forcing him to to me, it’s very personal to me,” Man- Talk of Manning’s retirement invari- much placed on rings and Super Bowl state-of-the-league address on Friday miss the entire season with the Indiana- ning said this week when asked to re- ably invites discussion of his place in the championships, because it’s not one than the under-fire NFL commissioner polis Colts, who eventually cut him in flect on his tumultuous season. “No pecking order of great quarterbacks. player,” Eli Manning said. who last year was left to defend his March 2012. question this season has had some Many rank him behind the likes of Tom “The quarterback is not the sole rea- job performance following string of Yet Manning went on to re-launch his unique challenges.” Brady and Joe Montana on the basis of son that you win a championship. Pey- scandals. career successfully with the Broncos, en- Just 46 days shy of his 40th birthday, superior Super Bowl wins (four each) ton, his impact on the game of football, A year ago, as the NFL lurched from joying a vintage season to lead Denver to Manning will be the oldest starting Su- compared to Manning’s lone victory nine will not be determined based off this crisis-to-crisis, there was open specula- the Super Bowl in 2014, where they lost per Bowl quarterback in history when years ago. one game. tion whether Goodell was still the man heavily to the Seattle Seahawks. he takes to the fi eld at Levi’s Stadium in In the words of former Dallas Cowboys “I hope he can win, but his impact has to lead the league following a timid This season Manning has fought through Santa Clara today. Hall of Fame Receiver Michael Irvin this already been made.” response to domestic violence cases involving players. Back then, the league was wrestling BOTTOMLINE with a concussion crisis while a relocation debate raged and the Super Bowl was about to be played under a cloud as the NFL con- ducted an investigation into the use of under-inflated footballs by New England in a win over the Indianapolis Colts that secured the Dual threat Newton rewriting records despite critics Patriots a spot in the championship game. But on Friday, having weathered the storm, Goodell was still in charge and charting the NFL course which will, among other AFP ‘A BRAVE TRADITION’ things, have the league return to Mexico City for the first time San Francisco “I think he’s part of a longstanding and since 2005 for the first Monday Night Game played outside the brave tradition, going back to Jack John- United States, featuring the Oakland Raiders and Houston Texans. son, Jackie Robinson, Kareem Abdul- Goodell said the health of players was a top priority. am Newton (pictured) may Jabbar, Bill Russell, Jim Brown and Ser- The National Football League last week said there were 182 divide opinion with his carefully ena Williams,” said Bill Littlefi eld, the reported concussions this past season, a rise of 58 percent over choreographed touchdown rou- long-time host of National Public Radio’s 2014 after two seasons of declining incidents. tines but a consensus is rapidly “Only A Game” sports show. Despite the alarming statistics and mounting evidence, Goodell buildingC that the Carolina Panthers star “This is a racial thing. People are un- said that if he had a son, he would love him to play football. may be the greatest dual threat quarter- comfortable with black athletes who, “There’re risks in life. There’re risks to sitting on the couch,” back the sport has ever seen. they think, transcend what they should explained Goodell. The 6ft 5in (1.96m), 250lb (113kg) Pan- be doing.” “What we want to do is get people active and want them to thers signal-caller has electrifi ed the Na- Newton himself fueled the racial debate experience the game of football because the game of football will tional Football League since his profes- when he was asked recently to comment on teach you the values ... The discipline, the teamwork, the perse- sional debut in 2011 with a potent passing why he seemed to divide opinion. verance, those are values and those are skills that will lead you and rushing game that all too often has “I’ve said this since Day One,” Newton through life, and I believe football is the best to teach that.” left opponents—and records—in its wake. said. “I’m an African-American quar- Goodell said the NFL will continue to invest heavily in player safety, When the 26-year-old dived over terback that scares people because they studying new technologies in everything from helmets to turf. for the 43rd rushing touchdown of his haven’t seen nothing that they can com- The commissioner also pointed to a growing culture shift within career against Tampa Bay last month, pare me to.” the game where players have a greater understanding of symp- he equalled his childhood hero Steve In the fi nal countdown to the Super toms, risks and how to manage them. Young’s long-standing all-time record Denver’s veteran defensive guru Wade presenting a match ball to young specta- Bowl, Newton has been reluctant to re- “We will continue to look at rules and technology to protect our for a quarterback. Phillips, the man entrusted with produc- tors every time a touchdown is scored— visit the subject, suggesting that his ear- players,” said Goodell. “The concussion issue is something we’ve But while legendary San Francisco 49er ing a plan to stop Newton on Sunday, ad- are not to everyone’s taste. lier reference to his skin colour was mis- been focused on for several decades. Young’s mark was compiled in 169 games mitted he was unnerved by the Panthers Opponents have accused him of lack- construed, wearily stating that he does “We continue to make rule changes to our game to make the across 15 seasons, Newton equalled the quarterback. ing respect. A Newton touchdown dance not want to pigeon-holed as simply a game safer and protect our players from unnecessary injury. record after only 78 games in his fi fth sea- “You’re giving me nightmares now, against the New Orleans Saints in 2014 “black quarterback.” “We’ve had 39 of those rule changes in the last 10 years. We’ve son in the NFL. right?” Phillips told reporters this week sparked an ugly melee. “When you ask me a question about also made tremendous improvements with equipment.” Newton has been the driving force be- when asked how he planned to cope with This season the Tennessee Titans were African-American or being black and During the nearly hour long press conference Goodell addressed hind the Panthers’ relentless march to Sun- Newton. “I’ve never seen one like him similarly enraged, with coach Mike Mu- mobile, it’s bigger than that,” Newton a variety of subjects, from the league’s position on marijuana, to day’s Super Bowl against the Denver Bron- and nobody else has,” Phillips added. larkey complaining that Newton had bro- said. the future of the Pro Bowl, and allegations that Denver Broncos’ cos, leading his team to a 17-1 record while Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib de- ken the sport’s “code of ethics.” “When I go places and I talk to kids and quarterback Peyton Manning used a banned substance. becoming the fi rst quarterback in history scribed Newton as unique. One reader of The Charlotte Observer I talk to parents and I talk to athletes all Goodell was asked if the NFL had investigated an explosive Al to throw for more than 30 touchdowns and “You can’t fi nd another guy like him on took to the letters page, meanwhile, to over, they look at my story and they see Jazeera documentary that accused Manning and several other rush for 10 more in a single season. tape,” Talib said this week. complain about Newton’s “chest puff s, a person, African-American or not, that players of purchasing human growth hormone. “He could take off at any moment and pelvic thrusts and taunting.” they can relate to.” Manning and the Broncos face the Carolina Panthers in Super ‘ONE OF A KIND’ score a touchdown with his legs. He can Yet Newton’s admirers far outnumber As for the touchdown dances, Newton Bowl 50 today. “What he’s done in the short time being throw the ball 70 yards - score a touch- his detractors, and there remains the sus- has no intention of dialling back his rou- “When these allegations first came out, we immediately began an NFL quarterback, he’s been awesome. down with his arm. picion of an underlying racial dimension tines. our own investigation,” said Goodell. “We do not have an inde- That’s the best word I can think of,” was “He’s one of a kind, man. One of a to some of the criticism, the sense that Asked why he thought so many pendent investigation going on at this point other than working the verdict of Peyton Manning, Newton’s kind.” as a black athlete, he is held to a diff er- critics took umbrage, he replied: “I don’t with the other leagues and WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency). opposite number on Sunday and the elder Newton’s eff ervescent, joyful celebra- ent standard to white peers who celebrate know. But I guess you’re going to have “If we feel that that’s necessary at some point, we may do that. At statesman of the NFL quarterback broth- tions—his signature “Dab” dance, his touchdowns every bit as exuberantly, to get used to it, because I don’t plan on this point, we don’t.” erhood. Superman impersonations, his habit of without drawing complaints. changing.” Gulf Times Sunday, February 7, 2016 7 SPORT

NHL Perry, Cogliano on roll as Ducks whip Coyotes By Eric Stephens in Anaheim by getting an extra skater on the ice. Lindholm snapped a wrist shot past Lindback The Orange County Register (TNS) Ryan Kesler sent a cross-ice pass to Kevin for his sixth goal of the season. Bieksa, who hit Cogliano by the net for an Lindback then hurt himself and the Coyo- easy tap-in goal. tes by waiting and waiting to make a play with orey Perry and Andrew Cogliano It was the fi rst victory by the Ducks over the puck behind his net before fanning on his scored goals in a one-minute, the Coyotes (24-22-6) in four tries this sea- pass attempt. Santorelli jumped on the puck 41-second span early in the third son. Maroon had fi rst career three-point and deposited it into the empty cage. period to lift the Anaheim Ducks to night with a goal and two assists while Rakell Doan forged a 2-2 tie on the power play theirC sixth straight victory, a 5-2 decision over and Kesler each had two assists. later in the second when he set up in front of the Arizona Coyotes on Friday night. Hampus Lindholm scored in his third Ducks goalie Frederik Andersen and put in The Ducks (25-18-7) completed a three- straight game and Mike Santorelli also had a a backhand. His goal and assist put him one game sweep of their Pacifi c Division trifecta goal. After having a goal waved off because of point behind franchise scoring leader Dale against the Coyotes, Los Angeles Kings and a successful challenge by Arizona coach Dave Hawerchuk, who had 929 points for the origi- San Jose this week. They’re three points ahead Tippett, Maroon got his second of the season nal Winnipeg Jets. of Arizona in the battle for third place and to fi nish the third-period outburst. Andersen made 23 saves to win his fi fth now just one behind idle San Jose for second. Arizona forward Tobias Rieder started straight start for the Ducks, who head out on Pinpoint passing plays were the diff er- the scoring when he converted a pass from a seven-game, 13-day trip that begins tomor- ence in the third. Patrick Maroon gave Rick- Shane Doan in the fi rst period after an errant row in Pittsburgh. ard Rakell a pass and the young center drew connection between Rakell and Perry in the Coyotes goalie Anders Lindback over his way Ducks’ zone. Results before sliding a pass back to Perry, who ham- Lindholm and Santorelli gave the Ducks Tampa Bay 6 ...... Pittsburgh 3 mered in his team-leading 21st goal. their fi rst lead with goals 66 seconds apart Anaheim 5...... Arizona 2 And as the Coyotes were self-destructing, early in the second. After a failed two-man Calgary 1 ...... Columbus 2 the Ducks took advantage of a delayed penalty advantage and fi ve-on-four power play, Winnipeg 3 ...... Carolina 5

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman (77) and center Steven Stamkos (91) celebrate with teammates after beating the Pittsburgh Penguins at Amalie Arena on Friday. Tampa Bay won 6-3. (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports) NBA From Greece to New York, Thanasis lands Spurs humiliate with Knicks

Reuters New York

s paths to the NBA from Europe go, Thanasis Antetokounmpo has taken Mavericks in Dallas, Athe long way, but having signed a sec- ond short-term contract with the New York Knicks and made his NBA debut, he is deter- mined to make his stay as long as possible. His younger brother Giannis made an im- mediate impact in the NBA, signing a rookie contract after being drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2013. Celts stun Cavaliers Thanasis, 23, was drafted by the Knicks in 2014, but subsequently farmed out to their ‘We played very poorly in the first half and they played great. Obviously we didn’t come out with D-League aff iliate. He played in the NBA Summer League for enough force. The majority of the blame should go on me for not getting these guys ready to go. two years for the Knicks, but both times was cut before the season began. We had a crowd that was ready to get into it, but we didn’t respond well at the beginning. The Finally given his chance in the regular sea- son, the forward is doing his best to adapt. second half was better, but at that point you are fighting out of such a big hole it is just very diff icult’ “There’s a diff erent culture here, so you have to adjust. You come here to play basketball,” Thanasis said, ahead of Friday’s game against The Sports Xchange in time to get the shot off with guard the Memphis Grizzlies at Madison Square Dallas Iman Shumpert—the Cavs’ best pe- Garden. He did not get any court time, sitting rimeter defender—standing in front on the bench as the Knicks were beaten 91-85 of him. “I knew it was there,” Bradley by Memphis. he San Antonio Spurs handed said. “It’s a great feeling.” Asked about the diff erence between Euro- the Dallas Mavericks one of Dallas Mavericks forward Chandler James scored 30 points, including pean and D-League basketball and the NBA, the their more humiliating home Parsons (25) guards San Antonio Spurs’ 13 in the fourth quarter, but was so 23-year-old smiled. “I think it’s everything. Here defeats in franchise history Kawhi Leonard (2) during their NBA upset he put in a rare postgame work- it’s a faster pace, diff erent bodies athletically for Twith a 116-90 victory on Friday in out before speaking with reporters. game on Friday. The Spurs won 116-90. sure, it’s very diff erent.” front of a stunned-to-silence sellout (Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports) “It’s how we lost. It hurts,” James He is not the only European in the Knicks crowd at American Airlines Center. said. “It’s been a while since I felt like locker room this season. Latvian rookie The Spurs put on a clinic from the this.” When asked if he thought the Kristaps Porzingis has been one of the bright start, reeling off a quick 16-4 run that defense covered Bradley’s shot well, spots on the team. snowballed into an embarrassing James said, “No.” Also suiting up for the Knicks is Spanish evening for the Mavs, who lost for a “The only thing that can beat us is guard Jose Calderon, who started his NBA third consecutive game. a 3,” he said. “It’s unfortunate that’s career with the Toronto Raptors and had spells San Antonio led 27-12 after the fi rst what happened.” with Detroit and Dallas before joining New York quarter and 62-26 at halftime behind Thomas scored 22 points and Turn- in 2014. the power of a 53-18 run. er had 19 points, 12 rebounds and six Europe accounts for a little under half of the “We played very poorly in the fi rst assists off the bench for the Celtics. foreign players in the league, and Calderon half and they played great,” Mavs Smith scored 20 points before fouling is not surprised by their recent success, but coach Rick Carlisle said. “Obviously out on the critical play that sent Turn- admits that it takes time for European players we didn’t come out with enough er to the line. Irving had 19 points and to adjust. force. The majority of the blame six assists for the Cavaliers. “It’s a diff erent style of basketball, you’ve got should go on me for not getting these “There were more than a few men- to get used to the speed of the game, the cul- guys ready to go. We had a crowd that tal mistakes going down in those last ture of basketball around here,” he told Reuters. was ready to get into it, but we didn’t fi nal seconds until that buzzer went “But in the end, it’s basketball (and) some respond well at the beginning. The off ,” said Irving, who didn’t appear guys need more time than others to get used to second half was better, but at that nearly as upset as James following the what’s going on out there.” point you are fi ghting out of such a loss. “It was just a few bad bounces Calderon believes that there will be plenty big hole it is just very diffi cult.” that obviously can be corrected by us.” more players crossing the Atlantic in the com- Spurs coach Gregg Popovich pre- Forward Kevin Love’s run of bad ing years. “I think we’re working hard (to dictably downplayed the lopsided luck against the Celtics continued produce players), there’s more guys now and victory, especially coming off a re- when he left the game late in the third it goes by generations. But it’s tough to be cent 30-point loss at Golden State. quarter with a bruised thigh. Love consistent. Even in the U.S. they have had some “Every game has mistakes, you win was bumped by guard Marcus Smart generations that are better than others,” the by 30 or you lose by 30,” Popovich under the basket with two minutes 34-year-old said. said. “It happens to all of us. I could left in the quarter and dropped to the Thanasis Antetokounmpo, meanwhile, net- go watch the fi lm and there would be ground. He was writhing in pain on ted two points in two minutes in his NBA debut all kinds of things we could improve, the baseline for a few moments and against the Phoenix Suns. because it is a game of mistakes. Dallas was one-for-eight after three A few minutes later Mavs coach playoff s last season bailed them out. had to be helped to the bench before He knows what he needs to do to keep living There is never a perfect game, so it quarters and three of 15 overall. It Rick Carlisle mercifully pulled the “In the big picture, it does count limping to the locker room. his NBA dream. “Just keep working hard. That’s goes without saying that you can al- was so bad for the Mavs (28-25) that plug with a game at streaking Mem- as one, but it gives you a sense you’re “Probably for 10 minutes there it the only thing I can control,” he said. ways get better.” if San Antonio had gone scoreless in phis looming Saturday night. improving and getting better,” Celt- was a dead leg,” Love said. “I don’t Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard, who the third quarter, it still would have Forward Dirk Nowitzki was the ics coach Brad Stevens said. “For us, know what it will feel like (Saturday), will be a starter in his fi rst All-Star Game led by two points entering the fourth. only Mavs player to score in double it would have been disappointing to but I’m optimistic it’s just a thigh next weekend, scored 16 of his game- “I wouldn’t say it was easy,” fi gures, fi nishing with 10 points and lose that lead and not come out with a bruise, nothing else.” high 23 points in the fi rst half while all Aldridge said. “We had to compete eight rebounds, until rookie forward win. They made huge plays late in the Love left the game with 10 points fi ve of Dallas’ starters combined for 16 and execute, do things right out Justin Anderson and forward Charlie game, but our guys stayed poised. To and fi ve rebounds, although he had points in the fi rst 24 minutes. there. I wouldn’t say it was easy. I Villanueva each got to 13 points in ex- score fi ve points inside eight seconds eight points and four rebounds after The loss wound up not challeng- thought guys played hard and com- tended fourth-quarter garbage time. is a good deal.” the fi rst quarter. ing the mark for biggest home loss for peted at the highest level.” Guard Deron Williams had eight points The Cavs seemed to have the vic- The Celtics have won three Dallas, whose worst loss at home was Mavs center Zaza Pachulia didn’t and forward Chandler Parsons fi nished tory sealed when guard J.R. Smith straight, while the Cavs fell to 5-3 117-70 to Seattle on Nov. 25, 1989. For deal with the frustration well. He was with six on three of nine shooting. grabbed an off ensive rebound off for- under new coach Tyronn Lue. Cleve- the Spurs, their 42nd win of the sea- ejected fi ve minutes into the third ward LeBron James’ missed 3-point- land, which shot just 21-for-35 from son was their 34th by a double-digit quarter for arguing a no-call on a er with 22 seconds left. Guard Kyrie the free-throw line, lost a second margin. All 13 players active for the dunk, believing Spurs guard Danny Celts stun Cavs at buzzer Irving made a pair of foul shots for game in a row. The Cavaliers’ lead Spurs scored and nine diff erent play- Green had fouled him. Elsewhere, the Boston Celtics could a four-point lead, but Smith fouled over the Toronto Raptors for the top ers hit at least one 3-pointer. It came after several earlier inci- not hold onto a late lead, and Avery Evan Turner while the Boston swing- spot in the East is down to 1 ½ games. “That’s probably the most embar- dents and moments after Pachulia Bradley could not hold onto the ball. man was driving for a basket with rassing game I’ve been a part of on and Green got into a skirmish chasing Ultimately, it did not matter. four seconds left. Results any level,” said Mavs guard Wesley a loose ball. Late in the second quar- Bradley recovered in time to make a Turner’s hoop pulled the Celtics ATLANTA 102 ...... Indiana 96 Matthews said. ter Pachulia and Spurs forward David 3-pointer at the buzzer, and the Celt- within 103-101, but he missed the Miami 98 ...... CHARLOTTE 95 San Antonio forward LaMarcus West got into it with both players ics stormed out of Quicken Loans free throw, and the ball trickled out LA Clippers 107...... ORLANDO 93 Aldridge fi nished with 14 points and earning a technical foul and Pachulia Arena with a stunning 104-103 vic- of bounds off the Cavs. It gave pos- WASHINGTON 106 .....Philadelphia 94 10 rebounds in 28 minutes, and re- getting hit with a fl agrant 1. tory over the Cleveland Cavaliers af- session back to the Celtics with one BROOKLYN 128 ...... Sacramento 119 serve guard Patty Mills had 16 points Dallas actually scored the fi rst ter they rallied from fi ve points down fi nal shot to win it. Boston 104...... CLEVELAND 103 on 6-of-8 shooting, including 2-of-2 six points of the third quarter as the in the fi nal 18.6 seconds. Forward Jae Crowder inbounded Memphis 91 ...... NY KNICKS 85 from beyond the arc. Spurs missed their fi rst fi ve shots, but The Celtics blew a seven-point to guard Isaiah Thomas, who started DENVER 115 ...... Chicago 110 The Spurs (42-8) were eight of 17 the Mavs’ spurt was quickly short- lead with four minutes left, but Brad- to drive before spinning and passing UTAH 84 ...... Milwaukee 81 from 3-point range after three quar- circuited and San Antonio pulled ley’s shot against the team that swept back toward Bradley. Bradley momen- San Antonio 116 ...... DALLAS 90 ters (12 of 22 for the game), while ahead 79-40 with 5:57 to go. the Celtics in the fi rst round of the tarily fumbled the pass but recovered (Home team in CAPS) Gulf Times 8 Sunday, February 7, 2016 CRICKET

SPOTLIGHT U19 WORLD CUP Warner, Marsh Pant ton puts India ensure revenge in semis

Agencies mates Sarfaraz Khan and Ar- Dhaka maan Jaff ar scoring aggressive half-centuries. Sarfaraz hit a run-a-ball 76 icketkeeper/bats- and Armaan made 64 off 55 balls man Rishabh Pant before a late blitz by Mahipal for Australia hit 111 off 96 balls Lomror lifted India to the mam- as power-packed moth total. The series will now go to a decider in Hamilton on Monday WIndia demolished Namibia by Left-handed Lomror took 24 197 runs in Fatullah yesterday to runs in the fi nal over bowled by cruise into the semi-fi nals of the Coetzee, which included three SCORECARD ICC U19 Cricket World Cup. sixes, as he returned unbeaten All-rounder Anmolpreet on 41 off 21 balls. New Zealand D. Warner lbw Santner 98 Singh scored 41 and took three Namibia made an impressive M. Guptill c Khawaja b Marsh 31 S. Smith c Ronchi b Henry 2 for 27 in his fi rst appearance in start with openers SJ Loftie- B. McCullum b Boland 28 G. Bailey b Henry 0 the tournament as India piled up Eaton (22) and Niko Davin (33) K. Williamson c Smith b Zampa 60 G. Maxwell b Boult 6 349 for six after electing to bat, putting on 59 for the fi rst wicket H. Nicholls c Wade b Marsh 4 M. Marsh not out 69 and then bowled the African side by the 10th over. G. Elliott c Maxwell b Zampa 32 M. Wade c Milne b Santner 2 out for 152 in 39 overs. Skipper Zane Green made 27 C. Anderson c Wade b Hazlewood 16 J. Hastings not out 48 Three-time champion India, to lift Namibia to 80 for one, but L.Ronchi c Marsh b Boland 19 Extras (lb2, w6) 8 coached by batting great Rahul the rest of the batting caved in as M.Santner not out 45 Total (6 wickets; 46.3 overes) 283 Dravid, will take on the winner left-arm spinner Mayank Dagar A. Milne c Smith b Hazlewood 36 Fall of wickets: 1-122 (Khawaja), 2-133 of today’s quarter-fi nal between supported his off -break partner M.Henry b Hazlewood 0 (Smith), 3-133 (Bailey), 4-144 (Maxwell), 5-191 strong contenders England and Anmolpreet with three wickets T.Boult not out 2 (Warner), 6-197 (Wade) Sri Lanka in the fi rst semi-fi nal for 25 runs. Extras (lb4, w4) 8 Did not bat: A. Zampa, S. Boland, J. in Mirpur on 9 February. “We set a good target with Total (9 wickets; 50 overs) 281 Hazlewood The second semi-fi nal be- Pant leading the way and then Fall of wickets: 1-35 (McCullum), 2-88 Bowling: Boult 9.3-0-66-1 (w3), Henry tween host Bangladesh and the fi elded and bowled well today,” (Guptill), 3-95 (Nicholls), 4-158 (Williamson), 10-0-57-2, Williamson 2-0-16-0 (w1), Milne winner between Pakistan and said India captain Kishan. 5-164 (Elliott), 6-193 (Ronchi), 7-205 (Ander- 9-0-58-0 (w1), Santner 10-0-47-3, Elliott the West Indies on Monday will “It was nice to move into the son), 8-266 (Milne), 9-266 (Henry) 3-0-20-0 (w1), Anderson 3-0-17-0 be played in Mirpur on 11 Febru- semi-fi nals with such a good Bowling: Hazlewood 10-0-61-3 (w1), Toss: New Zealand ary. win. Namibia had a good start, Hastings 10-1-42-0 (w1), Boland 10-0-61-2, Result: Australia won by four wickets. Dravid said his team had but we needed to stay patient Zampa 10-0-57-2 (w1), Marsh 6-0-30-2 (w1), Series: 1-1 started to play almost perfect and once the fi rst wicket fell, we Maxwell 4-0-26-0 Umpires: Billy Bowden (NZL), Sundaram cricket. “I think we have played applied pressure on their bats- Australia Ravi (IND) some good cricket right through men.” U.Khawaja c&b Santner 50 TV umpire: Ian Gould (ENG) the tournament. At some stages, Asked whether India would I still feel we have not played a prefer to face England or the perfect game, but this was our West Indies in the semi-fi nal, of strife” at 197-6 but knew Warner had Mitchell Marsh joined Warner to stop best all-round performance. Kishan said: “We can fare well ensured they had time to get home. the slide and they added 47 for the fi fth “We had a few hiccups earlier against either team. We just need “I told (John) to give himself extra time wicket before McCullum turned once on in the batting but it is nice to to play to our strengths and do to get in, watch the ball and when it’s in his more to Santner and was again rewarded see that we have recovered and the basics right.” area to smack it because that’s when he by the left-arm spinner who had Warner we are playing well. We’re play- Namibia coach Rangarirai bats his best. We knew we had plenty of lbw. ing good cricket, focusing on Manyande, whose side upset de- time and plenty of overs left.” It was originally given not out, but New the processes and not worrying fending champion South Africa Both sides suff ered middle-order bat- Zealand’s appeal proved successful when too much about the results and in the league, rued the inability ting blues, but Australia had better pad- the ball-tracker technology showed the things are going well.” to grab the opportunities that ding with Warner and Usman Khawaja in delivery would have hit the middle stump. Dravid said he had reminded came their way. a 122-run opening stand. It continued Warner’s bad run of luck his boys not to be over-confi dent Warner’s 98 came off 79 deliveries and with lbws after he was given out in the fi rst or complacent. “When you come Scores in brief: included eight fours and four sixes, while ODI and did not appeal when subsequent into knock-out stage, you can’t Super League quarter-fi nal: India beat Khawaja batted at a run-a-ball for his 50. reviews showed that dismissal would have take any team for granted. Na- Namibia by 197 runs in Fatullah They made it clear at the start of the been overturned. mibia put in some very good per- India 349-6, 50 overs (Rishabh Pant 111, innings they would attack New Zealand’s Matthew Wade went for a cheap two formances to get here. Before the Sarfaraz Khan 76, Armaan Jaff er 64, strike bowlers Trent Boult and Matt Hen- when Adam Milne leapt to take a one- game started, we spoke about Anmolpreet Singh 41, Mahipal Lomror ry. handed catch on the mid-wicket bound- the dangers of being complacent 41 not out; Fritz Coetzee 3-78) Khawaja hit the fi rst and fourth balls ary to give Santner his third wicket. and we wanted to get a win. Namibia 152 all out, 39 overs (Niko Australia’s David Warner belts the ball in Wellington yesterday. he faced in Boult’s opening over to the New Zealand’s 281 owed much to Sant- “The focus was to win and Davin 33, Zane Green 27, SJ Lofi e-Eaton boundary while at the other end, Warner ner and his tail-end partnership with not about anything else. I am 22; Mayank Dagar 3-25, Anmolpreet AFP tury when he was undone by New Zea- also smacked Henry’s fi rst delivery for Milne as well as Kane Williamson’s 60. glad that we were able to put on Singh 3-27) Wellington land’s match ace Mitchell Santner, but four. McCullum produced his trademark on- a commanding performance and Forthcoming Super League by then he had done enough to ensure the By the end of the sixth over Australia slaught to get a brisk start and New Zea- qualify for the semi-fi nals.” quarter-fi nals: world champions were in a dominant po- had 50 on the board and Boult and Henry land reached 35 in the fi fth over when he Pant, the left-handed opener 7 Feb - England v Sri Lanka, Mirpur ustralia, propped up by 98 from sition. were pulled from the attack. was bowled by Scott Boland for 28. who had scored the fastest 50 in 8 Feb – Pakistan v West Indies, Fatullah David Warner, held their nerve Australia lost six wickets as they chased Brendon McCullum worked through But the rest of New Zealand’s top order under-19 internationals off 18 Semi-fi nal line-up: to beat New Zealand by four down New Zealand’s 281-9 with 21 balls to a range of bowling options to upset the were unable to maintain momentum and balls against Nepal, smashed 14 9 Feb – India v England/Sri Lanka, wickets to win the second ODI in spare. batsmen and was eventually rewarded even Williamson’s 60 took 74 balls. boundaries and two sixes during Mirpur AWellington yesterday and send the series After New Zealand won the fi rst match when Santner had Khawaja caught and At the start of the 30th over, New Zea- his whirlwind 111. 11 Feb – Bangladesh v Pakistan/West to a decider. by 159 runs the series will now go to a de- bowled. land were 152-3. Just over 11 overs later Pant added 103 for the second Indies, Mirpur After Warner’s dismissal, Australia cider in Hamilton on Monday. The breakthrough signalled a return for they had added only 53 runs and critically wicket with Anmolpreet after Plate Championship (play/off s): were still 90 runs short of their target but “We came here to get back in the series Henry and Boult. Henry removed Steve lost four wickets to be 205-7. captain Ishan Kishan had been 7 Feb - Ireland v Canada, Cox’s Bazar an unbeaten 69 from Mitchell Marsh and and we’ve done that so hopefully that will Smith and George Bailey with successive Santner, known as “Flatline” for his caught and bowled by Fritz Co- 8 Feb - South Africa v Zimbabwe, Cox’s John Hastings’ 48 not out, got them over give us great momentum going into Mon- deliveries and Boult claimed Glenn Max- unfl appable nature, stepped up with an etzee for six in the third over. Bazar; Scotland v Fiji, Cox’s Bazar the line. day,” Marsh said. well as Australia lost four wickets for 22 unbeaten 45 and a 61-run partnership That set the stage for an In- 9 Feb - New Zealand v Afghanistan, Warner was nudging his sixth ODI cen- He described Australia as being in “a bit runs. with Milne who made 36 off 27. dian assault with former school- Cox’s Bazar

IPL AUCTION Aussie Watson top draw, followed by Negi

IANS Yuvraj on the other hand, will make the move at a base price of Rs2 crore. The Kerala lad had Bengaluru Australia’s Shane to Hyderabad from the Delhi Daredevils, who represented the country in a Twenty20 series Watson. had bought him last year for Rs160 million. The against Zimbabwe last year. veteran southpaw has been bought for a much The shy and soft spoken Samson said he had ookie all-rounder Pawan Negi stunned reduced price this year, with the Sunrisers never expected to be bought for such a high the cricket fraternity by commanding shelling out Rs70 million for his services. Yuvraj price. “I never expected this. I am happy to hear the second highest bid while veteran had a base price of Rs20 million. the news and I will perform to the best of my Australian star Shane Watson emerged The Daredevils have replaced Yuvraj with abilities for my team,” the 21-year-old told the asR the most expensive player at the Indian Pre- South all-rounder Christopher Morris, who media in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday. mier League (IPL) auction here yesterday. has been bought for the same price as the In- Tamil Nadu leg-spinner Murugan Ashwin Star batsman Yuvraj Singh was meanwhile dian star. The 28-year-old had a base price of and rookie fast bowler Nathu Singh were among snapped up by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 70 Rs5 million other young Indian players to rake in the big million. Watson went to RCB for Rs 95 million. “Unbelievably grateful! Very excited to be bucks. Ashwin was bought by Pune for a whop- On a day when the IPL franchises decided to part of @DelhiDaredevils #humbled,” Morris ping Rs4.5 crore. Nathu, who had grabbed the shell out surprisingly high amounts for young tweeted later. headlines by making it to the Board President’s Indian players, Delhi Daredevils’ decison to pay Among other big buys, Indian medium-pacer XI during South Africa’s tour of India late last Rs80.5 million for Negi was the highlight of the Mohit Sharma went for Rs60.5 million to Kings year, was picked up by Mumbai Indians for a day. XI Punjab, while Hyderabad splurged Rs50.5 whopping Rs3.2 crores. Both will make their Negi, who was included in the Indian squad million for veteran left-arm pacer Ashish Ne- IPL debuts this year. for the World Twenty20 championship on Fri- hra. Meanwhile, veteran all-rounder Rajat Bhatia day, had a base price of only Rs3 million before Delhi bought young Kerala wicketkeeper was bought by Pune for Rs6 million. Delhi fast a bidding war between newly-former franchise Sanju Samson and West Indian batsman Car- bowler Pradeep Sangwan was sold to Gujarat Rising Pune Super Giants and the Daredevils los Brathwaite for Rs42 million each. Australian Lions for Rs2 million. saw him emerge as the costliest Indian player at all-rounder Mitchell Marsh went to Pune for Among the unsold players, New Zealand the auction. Rs40.8 million. opener Martin Guptill, Australian fast bowler The 23-year-old, who is yet to make his in- at 86.50 with a strike-rate of 173 for Delhi. A bidding war between the Pune, Banga- Mitchell joined England star Kevin Pietersen, Shaun Tait and his compatriot George Bailey ternational debut, is known for his wicket to Watson, who has represented Rajasthan Roy- lore and Mumbai franchises was the key to who was picked up for Rs30.5 million. The duo were the most notable names. Guptill had a wicket to bowling and ability to come up with als (RR) every year since joining them in the Watson’s auction price soaring well above his will join India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni base price of Rs5 million while Bailey’s was set the big hits in the lower-middle order. Negi has inaugural edition in 2008, was bought by Vi- base price. at Pune. Pietersen had a base price of Rs20 mil- at Rs10 million. Tait’s base price was Rs 15 mil- been outstanding in domestic cricket with both jay Mallya-owned RCB for Rs95 million from a “Incredibly excited to join such a great fran- lion. lion. bat and ball. base price of Rs20 million. chise. Looking forward to joining up with my Samson’s base price was fi xed at Rs2 crore, Mumbai Indians’ (MI) head coach Ricky Pon- He played for the now suspended Chennai This is fi rst time that Watson has featured in new teammates in April,” the 34-year-old post- but he went for more than double that amount ting was happy with the inclusion of England Super Kings franchise in the previous seasons the IPL auction since the inaugural editon in ed on social networking site Twitter. after some competitive bidding between the wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler and New of the IPL and represents Delhi in the domestic 2008. He is the only player to win the player of With Watson joining them, RCB will feature Daredevils and newly-formed Rajkot based Zealand pacer Tim Southee in the side. circuit. He had been signed by Chennai for his the tournament award twice. But his deal was a power-packed squad this year. Their line-up franchise Gujarat Lions. The 27-year-old Southee, who had a base reserve price of Rs 1mn a couple of seasons ago. annulled after the Rajasthan and Chennai fran- also includes destructive West Indies opener Besides his batting, it was Samson’s wicket- price of Rs10 million, was bought by the de- In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (the domes- chises were suspended for two years after the Chris Gayle South African veteran A.B. de Vil- keeping skills that has made him a success with fending champions for Rs25 million while But- tic T20 competition), he took six wickets at IPL was hit by a match fi xing corruption scan- liers, India team star Virat Kohli and Australian the Rajasthan Royals. With the Royals out of the tler, who had a base price of Rs15 million, was 33.66 at an economy of 8.71 and scored 173 runs dal. pacer Mitchell Starc. IPL for two years, his performance saw him set bought for Rs30.8 million. Gulf Times Sunday, February 7, 2016 9 SPORT

REPORT PSL Shehzad stars for Quetta, Lahore Hales unlucky to beaten again miss century as England beat SA South Africa made 262 for seven and England needed a late flurry of strokes by Jos Buttler and Moeen Ali to reach the target in 46.2 overs

England’s Alex Hales plays a shot during the second One Day International cricket match against South Africa in Port Elizabeth yesterday. Quetta’s Ahmed Shehzad plays a shot against the Karachi Kings in the PSL yesterday.

Agencies Shehzad said he wasn’t too Dubai worried about the battle for World Twenty20 spots and was solely focused on the PSL cam- nder-pressure Paki- paign. stan opener Ahmed “For the last three years I have Shehzad hit form at been giving my best for the Pa- the right moment as kistan team. I play sincerely and Uhe scored 71 off 61 balls to help work very hard. I am still young. Quetta Gladiators defeat Ka- There are times when a player rachi Kings by eight wickets in fails to deliver consistently. the Pakistan Super League yes- Every player faces such times terday. and its normal.” Shehzad found an able part- Earlier, Peshawar Zalmi’s ner in Luke Wright (47) as they bowling attack had another fi ne chased down 148 for a com- night as they restricted Lahore fortable win. He smacked fi ve Qalandars to 117 for 6 to set up a boundaries and four sixes in his nine-wicket victory. knock. England discard Kevin With Chris Gayle, Umar Ak- Pietersen stroked 29 off 17 balls. mal, Azhar Ali and Dwayne Quetta’s decision to bowl fi rst Bravo, Lahore have arguably the paid immediate dividends as best batting line-up in the Paki- Karachi openers Nauman Anwar stan Super League. and Lendl Simmons were dis- But Peshawar had the up- missed inside the powerplay. per hand right from the fi rst The innings stuttered further ball - Junaid Khan went full and as Shoaib Malik’s Karachi Kings straight and Gayle’s stumps found themselves on 4-69 in went for a toss. Two deliveries 11.4 overs as Quetta captain Sar- later, Cameron Delport was run fraz Ahmed shuffl ed his bowler’s out for a duck courtesy a direct smartly. hit from Shahid Yousuf at mid- Malik (37 off 25) and Eng- on. Azhar (31), Akmal (21) and land’s Ravi Bopara (40 off 29), Bravo (32) helped Lahore last hit some lusty blows to take the the full quota of overs. Left- innings to 147/7 in 20 overs. arm spinner Mohamed Asghar In response, Quetta found it picked up 2 for 11 and an econ- smooth sailing against the likes omy rate of 2.75. Shahid Afridi, from leg-spinner Imran Tahir. He made of Mohamed Amir, Sohail Tan- the captain, fi nished with 0 for AFP SCORECARD Port Elizabeth 48 not out off 28 balls, while Ali was un- vir, Imad Wasim and Shakib Al 18 from his four overs. beaten on 21 off 15 balls. Hasan, all of whom found it dif- A required rate less than run- South Africa J. Roy b Abbott ...... 14 A double strike early in the last ten fi cult to contain the opposition. a-ball in the chase was never go- lex Hales fell one run short of a H. Amla b Topley ...... 4 A. Hales c De Kock b Abbott ...... 99 overs of the South African innings pre- The win gave Quetta their ing to be a problem and it proved century but did enough to set up Q. de Kock lbw b Stokes ...... 22 J. Root b Abbott ...... 38 vented the hosts from making a bigger second win in two games and so as Peshawar openers Tamim a fi ve-wicket win for England F. du Plessis c Jordan b Rashid ...... 46 E. Morgan c De Villiers b Morkel ...... 29 total. the underrated side look like Iqbal (55*) and Mohamed Ha- over South Africa in the second A. de Villiers c Jordan b Stokes ...... 73 B. Stokes b Morkel ...... 0 De Villiers and JP Duminy were dis- tournament-favourites all of feez (43) knocked off 80% of the one-dayA international at St George’s Park missed in the space of three balls after a sudden. They will take on a target. They added 95 in 68 balls J. Duminy lbw b Topley ...... 47 J. Buttler not out ...... 48 yesterday. R. Rossouw c Buttler b Topley ...... 11 M. Ali not out ...... 21 sharing a 107-run fourth wicket partner- strong Peshawar Zalmi side to- and the remaining 23 runs were The victory gave England a two-nil F. Behardien not out ...... 23 Extras (lb11, w3) ...... 14 ship. day. secured with ease. lead in the fi ve-match series after a game K. Rabada c Morgan b Topley ...... 12 Total (5 wickets, 46.2 overs) ...... 263 The pair were threatening to go an all- where batsmen from both sides struggled K. Abbott not out ...... 7 Fall of wickets: 1-20 (Roy), 2-117 (Root), out assault when De Villiers was superbly to play fl uently on a slow pitch. Extras (lb8, w9) ...... 17 3-169 (Morgan), 4-176 (Stokes), 5-202 caught in the deep by a running, diving ATHLETICS South Africa made 262 for seven and Total (7 wkts, 50 overs) ...... 262 (Hales) Chris Jordan off Ben Stokes. England needed a late fl urry of strokes Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Amla), 2-53 (De Bowling: Abbott 9-1-58-3 (1w), Rabada In the next over Duminy was leg before by Jos Buttler and Moeen Ali to reach the Kock), 3-98 (Du Plessis), 4-205 (De Vil- 9-0-35-0, Morkel 8.2-0-31-2 (1w), Imran wicket to left-arm opening bowler Reece target in 46.2 overs. liers), 5-206 (Duminy), 6-225 (Rossouw), Tahir 10-0-66-0, Behardien 6-0-35-0 Topley for 47. Leg Injury puts England captain Eoin Morgan praised 7-245 (Rabada) (1w), Duminy 4-0-27-0 “We were about 20 or 30 runs short,” his players for adapting to conditions Bowling: Topley 9-1-50-4 (2w), Willey Did not bat: C. Jordan, A. Rashid, D. said De Villiers. “I tried to pick it up at the that were much-changed from those in 7-0-33-0 (1w), Stokes 9-0-54-2 (2w), Willey, R Topley end but then I got out and we lost a cou- Isinbayeva’s Wednesday’s fi rst match at Bloemfontein Rashid 10-0-43-1, Ali 10-41-0 (3w), Jor- Result: England won by five wickets ple more wickets.” which they won in a high-scoring clash. dan 5-0-33-0 (1w) Series: England lead the five-match De Villiers said his players felt “a lit- “They were completely diff erent con- Did not bat: M. Morkel, Imran Tahir series 2-0 tle hard done by” after decisions went return on hold ditions,” said Morgan. “That is what has England Toss: South Africa against Duminy and Rossouw, with South impressed me most. The challenge was Africa having no more reviews after an adapting to conditions. Alex Hales was earlier failed review by De Kock. magnifi cent.” The normally free-scoring De Villiers Captain AB de Villiers top-scored for run rate. Kock with his side still 61 runs away from took 72 balls to reach his slowest one-day South Africa with an unusually sedate 73, “They managed it very well and set it their target. international half-century in eight years, while Hales played a crucial anchor role up for Jos Buttler, who played a magnifi - Buttler, who made a century in Bloem- with just three fours, two of them from for England before he was fi fth man out cent knock,” said De Villiers. fontein, hit three boundaries in an over reverse sweeps. for 99. Hales looked set for his second one- from Abbott, who fi nished with three for De Villiers edged another four and Hales and Joe Root (38) put on 97 for day international hundred before he 58. seemed fi nally to be taking control when the second wicket and made sure Eng- gloved an attempted pull shot against Then he put the issue beyond doubt he pulled Jordan for a six, only to fall in land were always up with the required Kyle Abbott to wicketkeeper Quinton de by hitting three sixes off successive balls the next over. He faced a total of 91 balls.

BOTTOMLINE More money needed to fi ght Moscow: Russian pole vault star door athletics championships Yelena Isinbayeva’s intended re- and the Russian Winter indoor turn to competition after a break meeting. of over two years has been put on Two-time Olympic champion cheats, says WADA boss Reedie hold because of a leg injury, local Isinbayeva took a break after media reported yesterday. winning the 2013 world champi- Reuters Sebastian Coe and said WADA athletes around the world who inherent with international fed- now decided to separate the test- The 33-year-old Isinbayeva, onships in Moscow, and in 2014 London was in a state of “peace not war” make more than that themselves erations who promote and police ing and the handling of doping who had been planning to par- she gave birth to her daughter with Coe’s troubled sport. in one year.” their sports. matters to an independent body.” ticipate in the Volgograd Gov- Eva. Last year she announced she “I could do with a lot more Reedie said he was impressed “An independent testing body Former WADA president Dick ernor’s Cup meet this weekend, would resume her career in a bid he World Anti-Doping money,” Reedie said in an inter- with the support within sport may or may not be a priority for Pound said last month that the said she had felt pain in her leg to compete at a fourth Olympics Agency (WADA) faces view with Newsweek published and from governments for an in- governments, who see that their IAAF, governing body of world while jogging. in Rio next August. a challenge to tackle yesterday.. dependent testing agency as pro- own domestic anti-doping pro- athletics, needed to be com- “I was jogging when I felt pain But her Olympic dream could cheating in sport while it The Scot said governments de- posed by IOC president Thomas grammes are just as important.” pletely restructured because of in my take-off leg,” ITAR-TASS be in vain as Russia have been Thas an annual budget of less than cided their own contributions to Bach but the question of funding Reedie said cycling was one “corruption embedded in the agency quoted Isinbayeva as say- provisionally banned from com- the income of many top athletes, WADA’s budget, which were then it needed to be addressed. sport that had successfully ad- organisation” under former ing. “I had to withdraw as I just petitions by the International its president Craig Reedie said. matched by the International Ol- “Who pays the bill is a crucial dressed the issue. president Lamine Diack. cannot jump. It’s a recurrence of Association of Athletics Fed- Lack of money could equally ympic Committee (IOC). question,” he said. “I suspect the most successful Russia was banned from ath- an old injury.” erations (IAAF) after a World prove a handicap for a proposed “The total is not nearly “This is one of the chal- body at the moment is the Inter- letics after an independent Isinabyeva, who is set to un- Anti-doping Agency (WADA) independent testing authority, enough,” he said. “WADA’s to- lenges as we investigate a new national Cycling Union which commission for WADA revealed dergo extensive medical tests in independent commission found said Reedie, who also expressed tal annual budget of $30 mil- independent body that would clearly had problems, not specifi - widespread, state-sponsored Munich, Germany, is still hop- evidence of “state-sponsored” support for global athletics chief lion a year is exceeded by many remove the confl ict of interest cally in any one country. But it has doping in the country. ing to compete at Russia’s in- doping in the country. Gulf Times 10 Sunday, February 7, 2016 SPORT

RUGBY SWIMMING McEvoy sets scorching pace, Magnussen England begin Jones promises improvement

Reuters won gold in Mexico in 1968. Perth RESULTS Men’s 200m freestyle 1.Cameron McEvoy (AUS) 1:46.71 ustralia’s Cameron 2.David McKeon (AUS) 1:49.18 era with 15-9 victory McEvoy sent out a 3.Fuyu Yoshida (JPN) 1:49.34 message to his Ol- Women’s 100m freestyle ympic rivals with a 1.Cate Campbell (AUS) 53.02 scorchingA personal best to beat 2.Bronte Campbell (AUS) 53.30 former world champion James 3.Zhu Menghui (CHN) 54.19 Magnussen into second place in Men’s 100m breaststroke the 100m freestyle at the Perth 1.Yasuhiro Koseki (JPN) 1:00.33 Aquatic Super Series. 2.Yan Zibei (CHN) 1:00.35 over Scotland The 21-year-old swam 47.56 3.Jake Packard (AUS) 1:00.77 seconds on Friday night to be- Women’s 100m backstroke come the third fastest man in the 1.Emily Seebohm (AUS) 59.03 ‘In all honesty I always thought we were going to win the game’ blue riband event since textile 2.Madison Wilson (AUS) 59.49 suits were banned in 2010 and 3.Jie Chen (CHN) 1:00.36 establish himself as a contender Men’s 100m butterfly for Olympic glory in Rio de Ja- 1.Li Zhuhao (CHN) 51.97 neiro later this year. 2.Takeshi Kawamoto (JPN) 52.44 Only Magnussen, who clocked 3.Takuro Fujii (JPN) 53.04 his personal best of 47.10 in ear- Women’s 200m butterfly ly 2012, and American Nathan 1.Wang Siqi (CHN) 2:07.24 Adrian, who swam 47.52 to win 2.Emma McKeon (AUS) 2:07.68 gold at the Olympics that year, 3.Suzuka Hasegawa (JPN) have gone faster without a suit. 2:08.14 Brazil’s Cesar Cielo still holds Men’s 200m individual medley the world record for the event 1.Hiromasa Fujimori (JPN) 1:57.66 with the 46.91 in a textile suit in 2.Takeharu Fujimori (JPN) Rome in 2009. 1:59.90 “Everyone in the world has 3.Travis Mahoney (AUS) 2:00.26 already stepped up and I had to Women’s 400m freestyle step up in my own way, I fully 1.Jessica Ashwood (AUS) 4:05.76 expect everyone to be reading 2.Lie Bingjie (CHN) 4:09.41 the results tonight and it will fi re 3.Ai Yanhan (CHN) 4:09.42 them up to get back in the water,” Men’s 50m freestyle McEvoy told reporters. 1.Cameron McEvoy (AUS) 21.73 “To come out and swim a best 2.James Magnussen (AUS) 22.32 time when I’m not fully tapered 3.Yu Hexin (CHN) 22.49 at all, that’s exciting. On a per- Women’s 200m breaststroke sonal note, it is kind of cool to be 1.Rie Kaneto (JPN) 2:20.04 amongst names like James Mag- 2.Georgia Bohl (AUS) 2:24.52 nussen and Nathan Adrian on 3.Tessa Wallace (AUS) 2:26.97 the rankings too.” Men’s 200m backstroke Former world champion Mag- 1.Mitch Larkin (AUS) 1:56.61 nussen, who lost out to Adrian 2.Xu Jiayu (CHN) 1:57.21 by a fi ngertip at the London Ol- 3.Masaki Kaneko (JPN) 1:57.57 ympics, is returning from shoul- Men’s 1500m freestyle der surgery but was still disap- 1.Mack Horton (AUS) 15:07.61 pointed with his time of 49.34. 2.Wu Yuhang (CHN) 15:23.26 “This is a starting point now 3.David McKeon (AUS) 15:23.47 and I will only get faster from Women’s 400m individual here”, the Australian said. medley “I know my fi tness is good be- 1.Sakiko Shimizu (JPN) 4:38.13 cause I am not fading. I just need 2.Miho Takahashi (JPN) 4:43.54 to get that top end speed up. 3.Ye Shiwen (CHN) 4:45.80 “I can’t really help what Cam Men’s 4x50m freestyle relay is doing at the moment. I am try- 1.Australia A 1:28.88 ing to come back from an injury 2.Japan A 1:29.60 so I can only really focus on my- 3.China A 1:31.10 England’s George Kruis scores their first try against Scotland during their Six Nations Championship match in Edinburgh yesterday. (Reuters) self at the moment.” Women’s 4x50m medley relay McEvoy fi nished second be- 1.Australia A 1:48.50 Reuters “In all honesty I always to send the hosts in 7-6 down at hind China’s Ning Zetao at the 2.Australia B 1:51.34 Edinburgh thought we were going to win the the break. world championships in Kazan 3.China A 1:51.38 game,” Jones told the BBC. England regained the initia- last year. Final standings “The only way we weren’t was tive 10 minutes into the second Australia last had a men’s Ol- Australia 660 points ngland got the Eddie if we did something silly, and half when man of the match ympic champion in the blue rib- Japan 602 Jones era off to a victori- in the second half I thought we number eight Billy Vunipola and event when Mike Wenden China 598 ous, if not quite glorious, showed composure under pres- smashed a hole in the Scottish start on Saturday as tries sure “We wanted to move the defence and sharp passing set up byE George Kruis and Jack Nowell ball more...and we weren’t able wing Jack Nowell to dive over in earned them a 15-9 victory over to do it, so we had to play a dif- the corner. Scotland in a nervy Six Nations ferent way and that is pragmatic Flyhalf Finn Russell blew a clash at Murrayfi eld. football.” great opportunity for a Scottish Jones, who took over from Jones would have been de- try when he snatched an inter- Stuart Lancaster in the wake lighted with the fi rst 15 minutes ception deep in his own 22 but of England’s World Cup pool- as England totally dominated then inexplicably kicked it into stage exit, had made it clear he possession and territory and touch with Stuart Hogg on his wanted a win at any cost and will were deservedly ahead after lock shoulder and eyeing 80 metres have enjoyed seeing his forwards Kruis forced his way over for his of unoccupied turf. England’s gradually wrestle control and fi rst international try. forwards then began to take con- fi nish in command of a scrappy However, the Australian trol and a scrum penalty enabled but typically intense Calcutta would have been infuriated to Farrell to stretch the lead to 15-6 Cup encounter. see that England had not shak- heading into the last quarter. Scotland went into the game en the habit that cost them so Laidlaw reduced the defi cit on something of a high after dearly in the World Cup as they with a penalty to set up a tense their impressive World Cup immediately presented the Scots last 10 minutes but England’s campaign but, having lost all fi ve with a simple penalty shot after a impressive defence held the Six Nations matches last year, needless infringement at a ruck. Scots at bay to extend their un- will be hugely frustrated that, for The score lifted the crowd and beaten run against their oldest all their eff ort, they never looked their team responded, having rivals to nine matches. likely to fashion a try and had the best of the remainder of the England travel to play Italy only three Greig Laidlaw penal- half. Laidlaw missed a simple next Sunday while Scotland vis- England’s Billy Vunipola catches the ball from the line-out during Japan’s Yasuhiro Koseki wins the men’s 100m breaststroke event at the ties to their name. penalty but then slotted a second it Wales on Saturday. the Six Nations match against Scotland. (AFP) final day of the Aquatic Super Series swimming event in Perth. (AFP)

SPOTLIGHT Vakatawa, Plisson shine as France edge out Italy

Reuters the stadium killed 130 people. French try of the tournament. Paris president Francois Hollande attended Louis Picamoles limped off the pitch the game. with a right leg problem after less than Former Toulouse coach Noves was 20 minutes. irimi Vakatawa and Jules in charge of his fi rst game since taking Parisse dived over with the ball in his Plisson shone in a new-look over from Philippe Saint-Andre after armpit when the Italy forward drove France team who secured a France were knocked out of last year’s over the try line after a lineout as Italy hard-fought 23-21 victory World Cup with a record defeat by New regained the lead. Vover Italy in their Six Nations opener Zealand in the quarter-fi nals, and it Les Bleus, playing in a tricolore shirt, yesterday. was a close shave for his team. scored their second try shortly before Coach Guy Noves made a winning They showed great attacking inten- the interval after Gael Fickou took a tap start as sevens stalwart Vakatawa, who tions, passing the ball around quickly, penalty and Chouly dived over at the had not played 15-man rugby in more but scrumhalf Sebastien Bazy misfi red end of an overlap. Canna slotted home a than two years, scored the fi rst try from three times before handing over the penalty to put the Azzurri in front again the wing. kicking duties to Plisson, and the home and the fl yhalf picked up the ball and Damien Chouly and Hugo Bonneval side sometimes defended awfully. touched down after Parisse was halted also crossed the line and fl yhalf Plisson “We were a bit dominated but pre- a couple of metres before the line. He kicked a conversion and two penalties. vailed thanks to the crowd,” said cap- converted his own try to give Italy an Italy responded with tries by Sergio tain Guilhem Guirado. eight-point lead. Parisse and Carlo Canna, who also add- “We can build on this victory but However, Vakatawa made the de- ed a drop goal, a penalty and a conver- there’s a lot to do and next week comes cisive break for Bonneval’s try, which sion. Kelly Haimona kicked a penalty. Ireland.” was converted by Plisson, who slot- The Stade de France was under tight Italy went ahead with a fi ne drop ted home the winning penalty from security as the gates opened for the goal by Canna but France hit back when almost 50 metres. France take on Ire- fi rst time since last November’s Paris the burly Vakatawa, perfectly set up by land at the Stade de France next Sat- attacks when assaults on bars, res- fullback Maxime Medard, sidestepped urday and Italy play England next taurants, a concert hall and outside a tackler and touched down for the fi rst Sunday. France’s Virimi Vakatawa celebrates after scoring a try during a Six Nations tournament match against Italy yesterday. (Reuters) Gulf Times Sunday, February 7, 2016 11 SPORT

FOCUS NATIONAL SPORT DAY Exciting family Meet Qatar heroes activities at Aspire Zone

By Sports Reporter for people to see if they can run Doha as fast as Usain Bolt, a throwing speed test to see if people can who are on their match Major League baseball spire Zone Foundation pitchers, a vertical jump test to (AZF) is organising a see if people can fl y like Michael variety of activities Jordan and a 200-metre bike race on National Sport Day for friends and family to race one (NSD)A designed to encourage another. people to stay fi t and promote At the end of each test, par- sports activity. The programme ticipants will receive a certifi cate way to Rio Games for NSD aligns with the Foun- recording how their results com- dation’s objective of enhancing pare to a number of athletes and healthy lifestyle behaviours and world champions. Two days before National Sport Day, a look at those who’ve made it to Olympics so far building a healthy community, One of the highlights in this contributing to the fulfi lment of year’s programme of activities By Sports Reporter send six athletes to the Rio 2016 Olym- the Qatar National Vision 2030. is the 5,000 steps walkathon, Doha pic Games including gravity-defying NSD activities will take place which will start at 9am in Aspire high-jumper Mutaz Barshim, as well as across all of AZF’s facilities and Park next to the Burgerry restau- upcoming star Ashraf ElSeify. Barshim venues as well as the spacious rant. The walk consists of 12 sta- hile there are only two days grabbed bronze in the 2012 London Ol- outdoor fi elds and pitches at As- tions at which participants will to go until the whole of Qatar ympics and has developed considerably pire Park. This year’s programme receive valuable tips and advice comes together in a celebra- since, securing gold medals in World In- has more number of activities about physical activity and lead- tion of sport for the annual door Championships, Asian Champion- besides newer attractions as ing a healthy lifestyle. Partici- WNational Sport Day (NSD), there are less ships as well as holding the indoor world compared to previous years. pants will receive a booklet at the than six months to go for the Rio 2016 Ol- record. Aspire Dome will be hosting start line and will need to collect ympic Games. With that in mind, Qatar ElSeify meanwhile is a two-time Jun- a number of physical activities a stamp at each station along the Olympic Committee (QOC) is encourag- ior World Champion in Hammer Throw that cater to all the members of way to indicate that they have ing everyone to #BeOlympic on NSD. and much like the established superstar the family, young and old. These completed the whole route. De- With activities on off er across Qatar Barshim, he too graduated from Qatar’s are designed to help those tak- signed to promote the value of for all ages and abilities, there is some- world-class Aspire Academy for Sport- ing part build up endurance and walking in maintaining a healthy thing available for everyone, whether you ing Excellence. muscle mass, and enhance fl ex- lifestyle, the walk is open to all are an aspiring Olympian or simply want ibility. They will take place from ages to take part. to participate for fun. A full list of the ac- SHOOTING 9am – 3pm. The full list and details of all tivities is available on QOC’s website. The ASPIRE Academy Sports the activities on off er on the day National Sport Day also provides an Science Department will be run- at Aspire is available on Life in opportunity for Qatar’s national federa- ning a series of “come and try” Aspire mobile application, the tions to identify young sporting talent activities taking place at the in- Life in Aspire website – www. who could go on to become Qatar’s future door athletics track at Aspire lifeinaspire.qa – and any of the Olympic heroes. Qatar has a huge pool Dome between 10am and 4pm. Aspire Zone Foundation’s vari- of talented young athletes and has made These include a 20-metre sprint ous social media channels. signifi cant progress on the sporting fi eld over the recent years. Athletes in four diff erent sports have already qualifi ed to represent Qatar at the Rio 2016 Games and here we look at the athletes who will look to make our country proud in Brazil. EQUESTRIAN

HANDBALL an side in history to make the fi nal. They The Qatari National Handball team made later went on to earn their qualifying spot history twice on their way to Rio. The for Rio in an amazing 28-19 victory over team placed second in the 24th Men’s Iran in the Asian Qualifi ers, in front of an Handball World Championships in Janu- elated home crowd. ary 2015 after a narrow defeat in the fi - nal to Olympic and World Champions ATHLETICS France. They were the fi rst non-Europe- Qatar Athletics Federation is slated to

SPOTLIGHT

More recently, experienced skeet shoot- er Rashid Saleh Hamad (pictured QF’s NSD activities above) secured his spot in Rio during Qatar’s national equestrian team were the Asian Qualifi ers in New Delhi in late among the fi rst athletes to qualify for Rio January together with teammate Vitaliy to promote fi tness, 2016. Headed by Sheikh Ali bin Khalid al- Dovgun, who competes in the 50m Air Thani and composed of Ali al-Rumaihi, Rifl e. Khalid al-Emadi and Bassem Hassan All four sports, and more than 30 in healthy lifestyles Mohamed (pictured above), the trio all, will be available to try on on National had a very successful year in 2015 where Sport Day, with the opportunity to emu- they consistently ranked in the top ten in late these Olympic heroes. By Sports Reporter Hamad Bin Khalifa Univer- the world. National Sport Day is an annual event Doha sity’s (HBKU) Student Center The team won gold in the 2014 Asian celebrated across Qatar on the second will also play host to a series of Games in Incheon but it was during the Tuesday of February. Qatar is one of the fun-fi lled activities, including Furusiyya 2015 Series in Abu Dhabi where few countries in the world to have a pub- atar Foundation for bowling, table tennis, volleyball, the equestrian team secured their well- lic holiday dedicated to sport and it aims Education, Science, basketball, football, traditional deserved qualifying spot for Rio – the to bring the nation together in a shared and Community De- games, and group fi tness classes. fi rst time Team Qatar has qualifi ed for the Mutaz Barshim celebration of sport and inspire people to velopment (QF) is set In addition, events for QF staff , Olympic equestrian competition. lead active and healthy lifestyles. toQ celebrate National Sport Day those with special needs, and with a jam-packed schedule ladies only will also be on off er that will feature over 60 excit- across both venues. ing sports activities designed to Commenting on the signifi- promote health and wellbeing in cance of the annual holiday, GCC Swimming Championships Qatar. Qatar Foundation president Under the theme of ‘Unlock Saad al-Muhannadi said, “This Your Inner Athlete’, this year’s year’s National Sport Day will National Sport Day aims to in- be very exciting as we have spire men, women, and children a variety of different activi- of all ages and athletic abilities to ties that aim to engage the en- lead healthier, more active life- tire community. QF prioritises styles. In line with the Qatar Na- sports and wellbeing, and Na- tional Vision 2030 (QNV2030), tional Sport Day is at the centre the activities demonstrate of our multifaceted, year-long QF’s commitment to shaping a plan which has been specially healthy, sports-loving society, designed to foster an active and while inspiring people to make healthy society. positive, long-lasting changes. “We are committed to pro- Throughout the day, there will viding activities that cater to be a series of competitions and everyone, young and old, in or- tournaments taking place across der to spread awareness on the Education City. The highlight of importance of wellbeing, as well these events will be the annual as prevent diseases through pro- 3km walkathon, hosted by Sidra ductive change. Therefore, this Medical and Research Center. is also an opportunity for us to Visitors will have the opportuni- demonstrate the hard work our ty to explore the sprawling cam- centres have dedicated to the pus, and learn more about the development of healthcare in role that QF plays in promoting Qatar.” education, science and research, NSD also focuses on nutri- and community development. tion and healthy eating, and, This year, activities will be held throughout the day, a number of in QF’s brand-new Oxygen Park. educational activities will be on Featuring 117 diff erent types of off er to the public. For example, plants over 130,000 square me- Sahtak Awalan - Your Health tres, it boasts a covered walkway, First, a fi ve-year campaign by running track, gardens, equestrian Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar track, and sports pitch. On Na- (WCMC-Q) aimed at infl uenc- tional Sport Day, the Park will host ing young people to make healthy pony rides organised by Al Shaqab, lifestyle choices, will give young Khalid Abdullah, head of Public Relations Committee of the 13th GCC Swimming Championships (25m), handed over the medals to the winners on the final day of the Crossfi t, zumba, and boxercise people the opportunity to blend competitions. Qatari swimmers added more medals to the 33, including 18 gold, 10 silver and 5 bronze medals, they had won by Friday. PICTURES: Othman Iraqi classes, as well as a beach volley- their own smoothies using spe- ball tournament. cially adapted bicycles.

Sunday, February 7, 2016 GULF TIMES SPORT

QATAR RUGBY 7s LEAGUE Doha all set for opening of AIPS Congress By Sports Reporter Camels blow away Doha he 79th International Sports Press Associa- Ttion Congress will get underway today in Doha under the aegis of the Hurricanes in opener Sports Press Committee of Qatar led by its chairman HE Sheikh Faisal bin Ahmed ‘Hopefully they will take us to the Olympics in the near future. It is a long-term plan—2020 and 2024 al-Thani. AIPS had unanimously are realistic targets but we are also looking at other competitions where Qatar can be represented’ accepted Qatar’s bid to host the 79th congress, with sports media com- By Mikhil Bhat Qatar Rugby Federation president mittee member Mubarak Doha Yousef al-Kuwari was visibly pleased al-Buainein signing the with the proceedings of the open- contract with AIPS President ing day of the competition. “This is of atar Rugby 7s League got off course only the start of the league and Gianni Merlo. The dates to an explosive start as the it will only get better. So far thanks to were finalised by HE Sheikh Camels 1 picked up a mas- God, it is how we expected. I am very Faisal after consultations sive 50-0 victory over DRFC happy to see level of the games,” he said. with Merlo last year. HurricanesQ in the opening game at As- Earlier, Minister of Energy and In- This will be the second pire Park last evening. dustry HE Dr Mohamed bin Saleh time that Doha will be host- Camels 1, who represent Qatar, con- al-Sada opened the inaugural sevens ing the AIPS Congress after tinued their winning momentum, af- tournament by throwing the ball to- the successful 2006 edition. ter having won the Qatar National Day wards a Camels 1 player, who then Hundreds of leading Rugby Sevens in December and reach- passed it onto the other players from sports journalists from ing the quarterfi nals of the Dubai Sev- the two teams that played the opening around the world will be at- ens tournament. game. With the likes of Aaron McLelland The second game on the day was a tending the Congress, which and Greg Evans, who are regulars in juniors game between Dukhan School will debate and discuss vari- the Doha RFC 1st XV team playing at and Blue Falcons of the Lycee Bona- ous issues dominating the the West Asia level, Camels 1 were too parte School in Doha, which the latter sporting world these days, strong for the Hurricanes, who have won 15-12. most notably the numer- many up and coming players from “The kids played with a lot of heart ous cases of corruption and their Colts team besides a few experi- and it was great to see that. That is what fraud that have dominated enced hands from the 15s. the focus should be on—having more headlines worldwide. Camels, being coached by Fijian kids playing the game. We do have Minister of Energy and Industry HE Dr Mohamed bin Saleh al-Sada (third from left), Qatar Rugby Federation president Yousef Delegates from FIFA, FISU, Usaia Bimaiwai, went into the break enough teams to have a kids’ competi- al-Kuwari (centre), QRF general secretary Ali al-Malki (second from left) and other dignitaries on the opening day of the Qatar UEFA, FIG, IAAF, Special at 24-0 before continuing with their tion and soon we will be looking at that Rugby 7s League at Aspire Park yesterday. PICTURES: Nasar TK Olympics and FIAS will also scoring spree in the second half. too. This is good,” al-Kuwari said. speak at the event. The “Yeah it does feel a little weird to Talking about the focus of the Cam- play against the boys I play almost els teams and the future, he said, “We Supreme Committee of every week with. But Greg and I were use the Camels 1 as the national team. Delivery & Legacy will also committed to the Camels team be- They meet the requirements to play as participate in a big way. cause initially DRFC wasn’t going to our national team. But having more Delegates attending the get involved,” McLelland told Gulf teams is also very good for us. It helps Congress will also get to Times after the team’s opening win. to have the numbers when there are witness and take part in “I think we have developed a lot in injuries to the players. Meanwhile, the activities planned for the last couple of months and I can see having two teams, developing these the National Sport Day on great potential, which is why I want players also gives us a chance to play Tuesday. to be involved with the team. I mean the 15s game here.” I hope their ambitions are as big as I With Rugby Sevens fi nding a place Itinerary think they should be.” in the Olympics Rio 2016 onward, “Ol- The league, according to McLel- ympics is defi nitely on our mind,” al- February 7: Arrival of Congress land, known for his explosive pace in Kuwari said. Delegates; Executive Committee the Gulf rugby circles playing as full- “This is the purpose behind trying to Meeting; Opening Ceremony back for Doha RFC, can only “get bet- develop this strong team. Hopefully they February 8: Continental ter from here”. will take us to the Olympics in the near Sections Meetings; Congress In the other games on the day, Camels 2 future. It is a long-term plan—2020 and February 9: Qatar Sports Day also won against College of North Atlan- 2024 are realistic targets but we are also February 10: Presentations tic-Qatar beating the latter 22-12, while looking at other competitions where Qa- A Blue Falcons player (right) runs with the ball during a juniors Action from the match between College of North Atlantic-Qatar February 11: Departure Lions RFC blanked Blue Falcons 20-0. tar can be represented,” he added. U-14 match against Dukhan School. Dukhan School won 15-12. (white) and Camels 2 (black) yesterday. Camels 2 won 22-12. French ambassador holds reception BARSHIM OPENS SEASON for members of France cycling team WITH POLISH VICTORY

The French ambassador to Qatar, Eric Chevallier, is seen with the French women’s cycling team, their staff , sponsors, and members of Amaury Sport Organization—one of the companies in charge of the 8th edition of the Feb 2-5 Ladies Tour of Qatar—during a reception at his residence.

Qatari high-jumper Mutaz Essa Barshim warmed up for the hectic 2016 season with a 2.29m jump to win the high jump competiton at the Pedro's Cup indoor meeting in Lodg, Poland, on Friday night. After his win, Barshim posted this image on his Instagram page with the message: "Thanks everyone for the encouragement and support... happy with the win 2.29, want more heights!! Two more competitions before the world championships (in Portland, America) next month..." Barshim will be seen in action at the Asian Indoor Championships, to be held in Doha from February 19-21 at the Aspire Dome, before the World Indoors from March 17-20 in Portland.