FFOOTBALLOOTBALL | Page 3 TTENNISENNIS | Page 6 Liverpool extend Federer beats EPL lead with De Minaur for comeback win ‘unbelievable’ over Spurs 10th Basel title

Monday, October 28, 2019 GOLF Safar 29, 1441 AH Woods on verge of GULF TIMES record-equalling PGA Tour title win SPORT Page 7

RUGBY WORLD CUP Of Springbok brawn and broken Welsh hearts Handre Pollard fires over his 76th-minute penalty to nose the Springboks three points ahead for 19-16 win over Wales

Reuters crash over the line, it had looked Yokohama, Japan like the end for Wales. But the Welsh are nothing if not durable, and found a way to stay in touch, hush. A dull thud. Brief with winger Josh Adams plung- silence. A roar. That ing over eight minute later. was the sound of South His try was greeted by the Africa reaching their sound of Tom Jones over the sta- Athird Rugby World Cup fi nal yes- dium speakers singing: “It’s not terday. It was also the sound of unusual”. To be fair, though, it Welsh hearts breaking. was. And that struck at the heart When Handre Pollard fi red of the Welsh quandary in Yoko- over his 76th-minute penalty to hama. nose the Springboks three points This team lacks the fl air of ahead, the die was cast. some golden Welsh teams, but as They had been the stronger, a team unit they have been fan- bigger, harder men throughout tastic. the 19-16 win in Yokohama. It But with little creativity on tap, is with no small irony that the and faced with a wall of brawn, South Africans are known as Welsh options were always going Springboks — a medium-sized to be limited, even if they could antelope. not be faulted for lack of heart. “Our forwards were great to- “We punch massively above night,” Pollard said. “They got us our weight in terms of the play- momentum, they got us a bit of ing numbers they have in Wales front-foot and they got us penal- so I’m really proud of these guys,” ties. In tight matches, that’s what Gatland said. “They’ve given us it’s about.” 100 per cent.” The South African game plan But for a third demoralis- was obvious. Coach Rassie Eras- ing time, the Welsh were found mus had loaded his bench with wanting after reaching the last six forwards and only two backs. four. “As you can see, the coach doesn’t hide it,” captain Siya Kolisi ‘YOU NEVER KNOW’ said. “He goes straight for the six- In 1987, the All Blacks put paid two split because we want our for- to their hopes, and in 2011 it was wards to take out everything... and the French, by a single point. On the guys we bring on, you know both those occasions the Welsh you have got nothing to worry fi nished with 14 men on the about — when you go off , the other fi eld. They stayed at full strength guy is going to come on and bring it on Sunday, but really how they even more.” could have done with 16 men on the fi eld. Or 17 even. GIANTS OF THE VELDT The dream of reaching a fi rst But while the giants of the veldt World Cup fi nal had fl ickered certainly laid the foundations of for most of the match, but never this victory, it was one of their quite brightly enough, and in- smallest men, Faf de Klerk, 1.72m stead it was South Africa who tall in his green-and-gold socks, reached their third fi nal, hav- who orchestrated it with smart box ing lifted the trophy in 1995 and kicking, probing, darting runs and 2007. tough tackling when needed. South Africa’s scrum-half Faf de Klerk (left) kicks the ball during the Rugby World Cup semi-final against Wales in Yokohama, Japan, yesterday. (AFP) “We’re in the fi nal of a World Where de Klerk ran the show, Cup so that’s some respect (we Pollard was the dead-eyed to be won by the boot. Even the contest and Saturday night’s Gatland said. “I take my hat off to stood at 28-6, with one match alty, and, to a point, that was key. have won) but we’re only halfway marksman, his 14 points decisive. rugby purist might have been breathtaking England win over them... it was a real arm wrestle, drawn. That was the more telling It meant that the Welsh were there,” Erasmus said. “We would Already South Africa’s leading tempted to reach for the televi- New Zealand could not have been a really tough encounter.” statistic. forced to play catch-up through- love to win the World Cup. We points scorer at World Cups, he sion remote, as the fi rst half was more stark. Wales had beaten South Africa out with their increasingly tired play a class England team in the moved up to 140 with yesterday’s more rugby pinball than any- But this, too, was rugby. in their last four meetings but ‘IT’S NOT UNUSUAL’ minds and beaten-up bodies. fi nal now, but we’ve really got a kicking masterclass. thing else. “It was a tough physical never at a World Cup. The Boks The Boks got on the board fi rst When centre Damian De Al- chance and we might go all the This match was always going The contrast between this match,” Welsh coach Warren overall record over Wales had with a 15th-minute Pollard pen- lende brushed off Dan Biggar to way, you never know.”

SPOTLIGHT Birthday cards from his kids put things in perspective for All Black Read

Reuters before composing himself. “We as a nation are just pas- Tokyo, Japan “It’s a rugby game and people sionate about little things we can care. We care. So you enjoy mo- do, because we are a little nation ments and, for me, I’m a dad, and who punch above our weight. ieran Read had a birth- that’s fi rst and foremost the thing “We understand that’s part of day to forget on Sat- I want to be remembered by. our job as All Blacks, to achieve urday as the All Blacks “That’s the thing. It’s all rela- things. I’d hate to lose that ex- crashed out of the Rug- tive. My kids aren’t going to love pectation and all that comes with Kby World Cup with a 19-7 loss to me less.” being an All Black.” England, but then some remind- Read recognised that many Read is walking away from ers of home waiting for him at New Zealanders would be upset New Zealand rugby at the con- his hotel put everything back in that the team had failed to win clusion of the tournament to join perspective. a third successive tournament, Japanese club Toyota and Friday’s Rugby was just a game after all. adding that while there was pres- playoff for third place could be “It’s pretty empty. Yep, it’s not sure on the side, it was some- his 127th and fi nal test cap. what we came here for,” Read told thing the team thrived on. The number eight was keen, if reporters yesterday after England “As an All Black, I appreci- selected by coach Steve Hansen, ended their hold on the Webb El- ate the support we get from the to ensure that he ended his All lis trophy. “And it was my birth- country,” he said. “I feel if we Blacks career with a victory. day yesterday. didn’t have it, it would feel a bit “Personally, you want to go out “But I get back to the hotel room diff erent. there and play well. It’s going to and there are cards from my kids “Next year I’m going to be one be my last chance,” he said. waiting for me. It changes things of those people — a fan — want- “We’ve got one more crack at and puts things in perspective,” ing the All Blacks to win. It’s in it on Friday. We’ll make the most he added while blinking back tears our nature as New Zealanders. of that.” New Zealand’s Kieran Read (second from left) walks with his team after losing the Rugby World Cup semi-final against England on Saturday. (AFP) Gulf Times 2 Monday, October 28, 2019 RUGBY WORLD CUP

SPOTLIGHT COMMENT Awed Woodward Final won’t be won raves about Farrell and Itoje

Reuters the day,” Woodward said. “Then Yokohama, Japan we had the remarkable Itoje. For me he has been biding his time with ‘wonderful in this tournament. He knew the live Woodward’s posi- mighty summits that needed to tion as England’s only be climbed towards the end and Rugby World Cup- didn’t waste too much energy in winning coach could be the foothills. Cabout to disappear in a week but “Perfectly effi cient and ef- he could not be happier and said fective in the pool games, he he was in awe of the team and has won enough trophies with tries’: Erasmus their coaches after Saturday’s Sarries to know it’s a diff erent 19-7 semi-fi nal win over New ball game come the knock-out Semi-final against Wales had 31 set pieces and the ball was kicked 81 times in play Zealand. stages. Against Australia he was Woodward, who led England excellent, on Saturday he was to glory in 2003, has been tipping off the scale against two of the a second success all tournament world’s great locks in Brodie Re- but, in his Mail on Sunday col- tallick and Sam Whitelock. umn, he said even he was sur- “Huge physicality, invaluable prised by their sustained excel- steals on the fl oor, immovable lence. at the ruck, marauding legally “England played with great through various mauls, a thor- tempo. They were massively ough 24-carat nuisance from powerful, disciplined, clever, in- start to fi nish.” domitable, unmoveable — every- Woodward also praised Eng- thing as a fan you’d want them to land’s tackling technique, as they be,” he said. have yet to pick up a yellow or red “There was a beautiful variety card — though Henry Slade was to their game that New Zealand close to one on Saturday. couldn’t cope with. England ab- “They have taken the high hit solutely battered the All Blacks, to the torso and chest completely the winning margin could, per- out of their repertoire because it haps should, have been much is too risky in terms of conceding greater.” penalties and cards,” he said. Woodward said that captain “Instead, scores of crunch- Owen Farrell and man of the ing tackles and double tackles match lock Maro Itoje particu- around the legs, thighs and mid- larly stood out in a wonderful riff come raining in. More than team display. any other team at the World Cup “Farrell is why I have always they have recognised the reality believed England can take this of the change of law and zero tol- World Cup. He is a winner, it’s erance of hits anywhere near the in his DNA, he’s spent his career head. Rugby can’t go backwards collecting silverware with Sara- after this, the world can see fair cens. He knows how to deliver on tackling is possible.”

South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus (second from left) talks to his players before the Rugby World Cup semi-final against Wales in Yokohama, Japan, yesterday. (AFP)

AFP Wales coach Warren Gat- gameplan with wonderful tries. adapted to that.” whole level of mediocrity is Yokohama, Japan land said he believed South Af- “It might be, I might wrong, slowly going out of our rugby. rica could beat England in the but I think we’ll go and grind it ‘FORCE IN WORLD RUGBY’ “We don’t have the money that fi nal, although he added that they out.” Erasmus, who has transformed England have, but we defi nitely he Rugby World Cup might need to be more expansive. After four straight losses to South African rugby since tak- have the player pool,” he said. fi nal between England “That’s good that he thinks Wales since their last victory ing over last year, said an in- “Let’s see how the fi nal goes and South Africa will we can go all the way, that’s over them in the quarter-fi nals creased level of professionalism to see if we’ve turned the corner not be won by an expan- great!” Erasmus reacted. of the 2015 tournament, Eras- adopted by top-level players as much as we wanted to.” Tsive gameplan and “wonderful “He’s right, there are defi - mus said his team also knew and coaches has been behind the Springbok skipper Siya Kolisi tries”, Springbok coach Rassie nitely some areas in our game what to expect from the Welsh country’s improvement. praised Erasmus for changing Erasmus said after his side bat- which must improve. in Yokohama. “We’ve always had potential the mindset around being an in- tled to a 19-16 semi-fi nal victory “We’ve played England four The former Munster coach in South Africa to be a force in ternational. over Wales yesterday. times in the last 18 months, it’s said they understood “they world rugby,” he said. “Even in “He knows us and he’s here The last-four clash against 2-2... we’re accustomed to the know how to close out Tests, we 2015 when we lost to Japan, we to pull us together and we’re to the Six Nations champions in way they play.” learned some lessons”. still played in the semi-fi nal buy into his plan,” said Kolisi, Yokohama was an ugly aff air, Erasmus added: “They’re “When we analysed them, the against New Zealand and lost by appointed by Erasmus as South featuring 31 set pieces and the obviously much better than way they won the Six Nations, two points. We’re always there Africa’s fi rst black captain. ball being kicked an incredible the last time we played them, they’re a team that strangle the or thereabouts.” “As soon as he came, he made 81 times during play. you could see that the way they opposition and today we expected Erasmus credited players with it clear that a Springbok is the But the slower pace suited dismantled New Zealand” in a exactly that and that’s what we “taking ownership of what it most important thing. In the Erasmus’ huge pack and well- dominant 19-7 semi-fi nal vic- received the whole game. means to be a professional rugby past most of us tried to build marshalled midfi eld defence, tory on Saturday. “We had to match that, it player” to maximise their po- ourselves on social media and he fl y-half Handre Pollard taking “We’re in a with a chance,” he probably was not the best tential. brought us back to earth and told England’s lock Maro Itoje (top) catches the ball in a lineout during the the plaudits with 14 points from continued. “I don’t think the fi nal spectacle to watch, but the “It’s slowly spreading through us you have to play well fi rst and Japan 2019 Rugby World Cup semi-final match against New Zealand his trusty right boot. will be won by a very expansive boys stuck to their guns and provinces and franchises. The everything else will come.” in Yokohama, Japan, on Saturday. (AFP)

PREVIEW Gatland eyes payback aft er Welsh dreams crushed by Boks AFP “The All Blacks are probably a little bit of luck and the bounce Yokohama, Japan hurting as much as we are. It’s my of the ball, maybe things cold last game in charge of Wales and have been a bit diff erent.” it will be monumental,” he added. ales coach Warren “As a coach, apart from being ‘FACE TELLS THE STORY’ Gatland has already with the Lions, they’re the only Talismanic Welsh captain Alun begun plotting his team I haven’t beaten with Wales, Wyn Jones fought back tears af- revenge after his so it would be nice to achieve that. ter the defeat, four years after the Wside’s hopes of reaching a fi rst “Then look with excitement Boks broke Welsh hearts with late World Cup fi nal were dashed by about going back to coach in 23-19 win at Twickenham. South Africa in Yokohama yes- New Zealand with the Chiefs -- “Probably my face tells the terday. and then back to the Lions for story,” he said. “Hurting obvi- The Six Nations champions, 12 months or so and try to have ously, disappointed. But we’ve whose only defeat in their previ- some revenge on tonight’s game still got the opportunity to make ous six meetings with the Spring- with South Africa.” a bit of history. boks had come in the quarter- Gatland said Handre Pollard’s “There’s no real consolation, it fi nals four years ago, went down 76th-minute penalty had killed is what it is. But it’s another op- 19-16 in a bruising encounter Welsh momentum, with the portunity to put this red jersey on that fell a long way short of Eng- game locked at 16-16. that means so much, not only to land’s pulsating victory over the “With 76 minutes on the clock the group of players we’ve got, All Blacks 24 hours earlier. and at 16-all, it’s a big turnover but the nation back home.” But Gatland, whose successful from a breakdown,” he said. Jones praised the eff ort of 12-year reign with Wales ends af- “I felt the longer the game went the Welsh players, despite be- ter Friday’s bronze-medal match on that we would get a chance, it ing worn down by South Africa’s against his native New Zealand, didn’t feel like it was a game too aerial bombardment. is already seeking payback – far at all. “It’s funny, the tighter games looking to his return as coach of “I thought we would get the you play are usually attritional the British and Irish Lions for the opportunity, but we were in a real like that, as Gats says,” he said. 2021 tour to South Africa. arm-wrestle,” added Gatland. “Not until those four or fi ve “It’s a tough game to play, that “I thought South Africa de- minutes towards the end did we third-place playoff ,” said Gat- served to win the game – and as feel out of it. But in a semi-fi nal land, who has led Wales to four a coach you take that on the chin. it does become a game of chess – Six Nations titles and two World “But I’m really proud of the that’s what we found and we were Wales’ centre Jonathan Davies (left) shakes hands with coach Warren Gatland after losing the Japan 2019 Rugby World Cup semi-final match Cup semi-fi nals since 2007. boys for never giving up and with just a few percent short.” against South Africa in Yokohama, Japan, yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times Monday, October 28, 2019 3 SPORT

FOOTBALL Sara Masoud wins gold Liverpool battle back to beat Spurs as Man U win away Arsenal squander a 2-0 lead at home to Crystal Palace to draw 2-2

AFP London Sara Masoud of Qatar poses after winning gold in the discus throw competition for specially-abled athletes during the GCC Women’s iverpool came from be- Games in Kuwait yesterday. hind to beat Tottenham 2-1 yesterday and restore their six-point lead at SERIE A Lthe top of the Premier League as Manchester United fi nally remembered how to win on the road. Seven-goal Atalanta Elsewhere yesterday, Arsenal squandered a 2-0 lead at home to Crystal Palace to draw 2-2 run riot to close in while 10-man Newcastle held on to draw 1-1 with Wolves. Liverpool saw their com- on Juventus manding eight-point lead cut to six after their draw at Old Traf- AFP with Slovenian Ilicic completing ford last week and Manchester Milan a fi rst half brace. City cranked up the pressure on Mario Pasalic also got on the Saturday by beating Aston Villa scoresheet and 17-year-old Ivo- 3-0. uis Muriel hit a hat-trick rian forward Amad Diallo Traore Jurgen Klopp’s side were put as Atalanta put their mid- completed the rout to score on under further pressure after week Champions League his debut seven minutes from the Spurs made a stunning start at humiliation behind them whistle. Anfi eld, snatching the lead in- Lwith a crushing 7-1 win over Udinese meanwhile are 13th side the opening minute. 10-man Udinese yesterday that but just three points away from Son Heung-min burst for- moved them to within three the drop zone. ward and tried his luck from the points of Serie A leaders Juven- Atalanta next travel to Napoli’s edge of the area. His shot took a Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah tus. San Paolo Stadium on Wednes- defl ection and rebounded off the celebrates scoring their second goal Gian Piero Gasperini’s side day after Carlo Ancelotti’s side bar to Harry Kane, who calmly with Jordan Henderson yesterday. consolidated third place with were held to their second stale- headed in, silencing the home 20 points from nine games, two mate in three Serie A games. crowd. adrift of second-placed Inter After winning 3-2 a European Liverpool piled on the pres- Milan and three ahead of Napoli, thriller in Salzburg, Arkadiusz sure in search of an equaliser who were held 1-1 at lowly SPAL. Milik put Napoli ahead after nine but goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga Defending champions Juve minutes. kept the marauding attackers at by VAR after Wilfried Zaha was stay top despite drawing 1-1 at But their advantage was can- bay despite incessant pressure. initially booked for diving. Lecce on Saturday thanks to celled out seven minutes later by Liverpool fi nally claimed an Emery’s team faded in famil- Antonio Conte’s Inter also col- SPAL’s Jasmin Kurtic. equaliser in the 52nd minute. iar fashion after that and Jordan lecting just a point with their 2-2 Napoli also had a penalty Fabinho clipped the ball into Ayew bagged Palace’s deserved draw with Parma. awarded before the break for a the area looking for Roberto equaliser before Arsenal had a Gasperini said his side, top Francesco Vicari handball only Firmino but it ran through to late Sokratis winner disallowed scorers with a Serie A-record 28 to see it overturned after a VAR Jordan Henderson at the far post by VAR. goals after nine games, had felt viewing. and the captain fi nished coolly, Xhaka’s remarkable bust-up bitterness after their 5-1 hum- “We couldn’t have done more shooting across goal from close with the crowd laid bare the bling at Manchester City, their today,” said Ancelotti. range. simmering tensions. third Champions League defeat “Even Juve and Inter, with Liverpool went ahead in the When Xhaka was replaced by in as many games. yesterday’s draws, lost an op- 75th minute after referee An- Bukayo Saka, the disliked Swiss “We’re trying to use the portunity. Everyone in the week thony Taylor awarded a pen- midfi elder trudged slowly to the Champions League to gain ex- is paying for something in the alty for a foul by Serge Aurier on touchline while petulantly ges- perience and it helps us become Champions League.” Sadio Mane. ticulating to the fans who had better in Serie A,” said Gasperini. Surprise package Cagliari Salah fi red into the bottom cheered his substitution and “We make mistakes, but we moved up to fi fth with a 1-1 draw corner from the spot — the 50th were now angrily urging him to have also been scoring regularly against Torino, who stretched Anfi eld goal of his Liverpool ca- get off the pitch quicker. for 18 months now and it really their winless run to four games. reer — and Tottenham could not Wolves battled back from a helps us to fi ght back from diffi - Giovanni Simeone set up Na- fi nd an equaliser, with defeat below-par fi rst-half display cult situations, as when we went hitan Nandez for the opener fi ve leaving the Champions League to draw 1-1 against Newcastle behind today.” minutes before the break but Si- fi nalists languishing in 11th spot thanks to Jonny’s leveller at St After falling behind after 12 mone Zaza came off the bench to in the Premier League. Crystal Palace and Arsenal players clash during their match yesterday. James’ Park. minutes following Stefano Oka- grab a point for Torino. Liverpool skipper Jordan Hosts Newcastle took the ka’s fi rst away goal for Udinese Claudio Ranieri fell to his fi rst Henderson, speaking to Sky despite failing to convert two the 73rd minute before Norwich goal lead amid VAR controversy lead in the 37th minute through this season, the Bergamo side got defeat as Sampdoria coach, los- Sports, said: “After 48 seconds penalties. grabbed a late consolation goal. and captain Granit Xhaka feud- captain Jamaal Lascelles but the into their stride. ing 2-1 to Bologna. I was thinking it was my fault Scott McTominay gave United “We needed a perform- ed with fans the draw against visitors scored a deserved equal- Slovenian Josip Ilicic picked up Sampdoria remain rooted to because I gave the ball away for the lead midway thought the ance today,” said McTominay. Palace. iser in the 73rd minute when a Marten De Roon cross to grab the bottom of the table on four their goal. Thankfully I man- fi rst half and Rashford made it “We should have beaten Liver- Arsenal struck twice in the goalkeeper Martin Dubravka the equaliser after 21 minutes, points after their seventh defeat aged to get a goal to make up for 2-0 on the half-hour after fail- pool last week. We’ve put in a fi rst 10 minutes to take a 2-0 could only paw a cross from the and it was all one-way traffi c in nine games. it.” ing to score from the penalty 90-minute performance. When lead, with centre-backs Sokra- right into the path of Jonny, who after Udinese’s Nicholas Opoku Ranieri, 68, took over this Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Man- spot. we’re on it, we’re on it. Hope- tis Papastathopoulos and David lashed home. was sent off after picking up a month with his fi rst game in chester United swept Norwich Anthony Martial also saw a fully we can get some winning Luiz fi nding the net. Newcastle’s Sean Longstaff second yellow card for bringing charge a goalless draw last week- aside 3-1 at Carrow Road to spot kick saved by Tim Krul on momentum.” But Luka Milivojevic started was shown a straight red card down Ilicic. end against his former club record their fi rst away win in the the stroke of half-time but he Unai Emery’s problems the Arsenal collapse when he with eight minutes to go after Muriel converted from the Roma, host AC Milan later on Premier League since February also atoned, making it 3-0 in mounted as Arsenal blew a two- converted a penalty awarded fl ying into Ruben Neves. spot for the fi rst of his treble, Sunday with Lazio playing at which included two penalties, Fiorentina.

LA LIGA SPOTLIGHT Atletico return to winning ways, move level with Barca Gladbach see off Reuters favour of Angel Correa. Madrid Atletico Madrid’s Angel Correa Argentine Correa has enjoyed in action with Athletic Bilbao’s little fi rst team football this sea- Eintracht to reclaim Inigo Cordoba during their La son and was making only his tletico Madrid snapped Liga clash on Saturday. second start in the league but he a three-game winless played a decisive role in the vic- Bundesliga top spot streak in La Liga by tory by setting up both goals. beating Athletic Bil- He used strength and pace to Reuters ternational Daichi Kamada the baoA 2-0 at home on Saturday to burst into the box and roll the main culprit. Gladbach’s Nico Berlin move level on points with table- ball across for Saul to strike it Elvedi punished their wasteful- topping Barcelona. into the net to break the dead- ness with a looping header in the Saul Niguez put injury- lock against an Athletic side orussia Moenchenglad- 75th minute but Frankfurt were stricken Atletico ahead in the who before the game had the bach scrambled to a 4-2 not yet done, bouncing back 28th minute while Alvaro Mora- joint-best defensive record in victory over Eintracht again with Martin Hinteregger’s ta bundled the ball in from close the league along with Atletico. Frankfurt yesterday to glancing header. range in the 64th to seal their Correa then got down to the reclaimB top spot in the Bundes- But they had no response af- fi rst home league win for four byline to send a low cross to- liga and move a point clear of ter Denis Zacharia fi red in from games. Atletico have 19 points wards Morata, who only had to second-placed Bayern Munich. 16 metres from a fi ne Lars Stindl after 10 games along with cham- guide the ball into the net. Marcus Thuram tapped in a pass and Gladbach hung on to pions Barca, who have a game in The visitors had nearly taken Breel Embolo cutback in the 28th hand Frankfurt their fi rst loss in hand after the ‘Clasico’ against the lead early in the game when minute and Oscar Wendt drilled the last fi ve league games. Real Madrid was postponed defender Inigo Martinez glanced in the Foals’ second goal on the Gladbach shook off VfL until December due to security a header towards the top corner stroke of halftime as they looked Wolfsburg, who drew 0-0 with concerns. but Atletico goalkeeper Jan Ob- to be cruising to a comfortable Augsburg earlier on Sunday, to The victory helped ease ten- lak produced an outstanding victory. move alone into top spot on 19 sions at the Wanda Metropoli- leaping save to keep the eff ort Frankfurt, however, sprung to points. tano after fans booed the team out. Athletic then had a half- life after the break and took con- Bayern, 2-1 winners against and especially midfi elder Koke side and that makes you much (in la Liga) had left us with a bit- signing Joao Felix due to an an- hearted appeal for a penalty trol of the game. Union Berlin on Saturday, are on in the midweek 1-0 win over more up for the game from the tersweet taste so it was vital that kle injury and fi rst-choice cen- waved away shortly after the They cut the defi cit through 18, with Freiburg and Wolfsburg Bayer Leverkusen in the Cham- start,” Saul told reporters. we won today.” tral defenders Jose Gimenez opening goal when Iker Muniain Danny Da Costa on the hour on 17. Borussia Dortmund com- pions League. “We always go out looking to Atletico were without their and Stefan Savic, while Diego appeared to be pushed to the and missed a string of golden plete the top fi ve a further point “Today the fans were on our win and the three draws in a row record 126mn euro ($139.58mn) Simeone left out Diego Costa in ground by Saul. chances to level with Japan in- behind. Gulf Times 4 Monday, October 28, 2019 SPORT

MOUNTAINBIKES BOXING Stevenson seizes title in grudge bout Mersni wins MTB AFP disrespect he was putting out. Los Angeles “I don’t know how he can say he has no hard feelings when the whole time he was disrespecting hakur Stevenson won our family. his fi rst title on Satur- “It doesn’t go away just like day, easily beating Joet that.” Gonzalez by a unanimous Stevenson and Gonzalez were League opening decisionS in a 125 pound grudge never supposed to fi ght but Ste- match between two undefeated venson became the No. 1 con- fi ghters. tender and Gonzalez No. 2 for The 22-year-old Stevenson the vacant title. claimed the vacant World Box- Stevenson, who is the second ing Organization title and be- youngest current title holder came the fi rst boxer from the behind 20-year-old WBC light- 2016 US Rio Olympic team to weight champ Devin Haney, leg at Al Khor win a major title. dominated in almost every as- Stevenson (13-0, 7 KOs) not pect, using a stingy defence The technically challenging course featured a lot of short but steep climbs only won on all three of the judg- to slip punches and frustrate es’ scorecards, but each gave him Gonzalez. all but one round in the 12-round The Olympic silver medal featherweight fi ght in Reno, Ne- winner wore Gonzalez down vada. with a steady diet of jabs and The bad blood between the hard right hands to the midsec- fi ghters continued afterwards tion and kidneys. with Gonzalez rejecting Steven- Gonzalez’s corner told him son’s attempt in the ring to make before the 12th round he needed peace with his family. a knockout to win the fi ght. But Joet (23-1) is the brother of by that time Stevenson was in Stevenson’s girlfriend Jajaira, complete control and Gonzalez and is trained by his father. was simply lucky to have last- Jajaira is estranged from her ed all 12 rounds without being family. knocked out. “I have nothing but respect “It is an amazing feeling,” said for Joet. It was personal for him Stevenson, adding he hopes to but business for me,” Stevenson get bigger fi ghts now that he has said. his fi rst belt. “I told him he is a hell of a fi ghter, but he didn’t want to talk TAYLOR CHAMP to me.” Scotland’s Josh Taylor became The fi ghters were mostly kept the unifi ed world champion of apart after the fi nal bell. the super-lightweight division The Gonzalez family has had with a majority decision win little contact with Jajaira since over US fi ghter Regis Prograis in she started dating her longtime a thrilling contest in London on boyfriend Stevenson. Joet said Saturday. he is not ready to forget and for- One judge scored the fi ght give. 114-114, but two others gave it to “Obviously it was personal. Taylor by 117-112 and 115-113, to He said a lot of things,” said Joet. the delight of the Scottish fans in “It was between me and him, the the O2 Arena.

SWIMMING FINA World Cup attracts several The winners pose with their medals after the first round of the MTB racing season. top sponsors By Sports Reporter Africa topped the Masters (40 & race day. shop lauded the race organisers Masters: 1st – Denrei Cata- Doha Above) & Veterans (50 & above) This race used the all-new for the track that was well laid lan (Philippines) Team Rasen By Sports Reporter erage company, and Speedo – the categories respectively. xc circuit track designed and out with lots of diff erent chal- Adventure Shop; 2nd – Francis Doha world’s leading brand – are the Team Bike To Work cyclist Mel laid out with the help of Team lenges. He added that all the Agcacaoili (Philippines) Team FINA Series Sponsors. he MTB (mountainbike) Christian De Vera (Philippines) El Padyakero of UFMBQ. The technical descents and short but El Padyakero; 3rd – Francis Qatar’s leading sports broad- racing season opening won the top spot in the men’s UFMBQ Volunteers Task Force steep climbs were defi nitely the Alegado (Philippines) he FINA Swimming casters, Al Kass Sports Channels, race in Qatar took place novice category. also did a great job of provid- deciders of the day. Veterans: 1st – Jaco Andersen World Cup’s Doha leg extend their partnership with in Al Khor on Friday The introduction of addi- ing the needed day volunteers (South Africa) Team Rasen Ad- has attracted several in- QSA as the Presenting Sponsor, Twith Tunisian triathlete Mehdi tional handicap categories for and fi eld marshals on the route RESULTS venture Shop; 2nd – Danilo Cruz ternational and national and will broadcast live all the Mersni of Team Al Bidaa win- women saw more ladies partici- to prevent the rider from cut- Open Category (Philippines) Team El Padyakero; sponsors,T who have joined the pool action. ning in the men’s open category. pants in the mountain bike rac- ting the course and aiding riders Men: 1st – Mehdi Mersni, (Tuni- 3rd – Ronnie Saclin (Philippines) Qatar Swimming Association’s Qatar National Bank (QNB) He was also the overall winner ing. Former UCI Pro rider Pia while on the route. sia) Team Al Bidaa; 2nd – Glenn Team SMCC Apo Lakay. (QSA) sponsoring programme. – the Gulf’s largest lender, and in terms of fastest lap and most Stundstedt (Finland) of Team Rider Nicolas Wohlwend of Bull (Australia) Team Travel- Women’s Weekend Warrior: The event, which will take Aspetar – the world’s lead- laps done. Consequently, he got Rasen Adventure Shop proved Liechtenstein, said, “The route Race.com; 3rd – Del Valle Bustos, 1st – Rowena Ruiz (Philippines) place from November 7 to 9, will ing specialised orthopaedic and the KOM Badge in Strava for this her prowess as she won the is an exciting combination of Andres (Argentina) Team Los Team Doha ChiQlistas; 2nd host the world’s top swimmers sports medicine hospital are the route. women’s open category. She also quite technical sections with Gauchos. – Charmaine Aliwalas (Philip- competing at the Hamad Aquatic National Sponsors of the event, Iran riders, who are just visit- fi nished with the most laps in some fast pace parts next to the Women: 1st – Pia Sunstedt pines) Team El Padyakero; 3rd Centre. QSA will organise the recognising the value of this ing Qatar to try out the moun- the race. Rowena Ruiz (Philip- mangroves forest of Al Khor and (Finland) Team Rasen Adven- – Charlotte Wohlwend (Switzer- FINA Swimming World Cup high-profi le competition. tain bike circuit race, Moham- pines) of Team Doha Chiqlistas some surprisingly steep climbs. ture Shop; 2nd – Allesandra land). meet for the eighth consecutive CSM Live, Oxygen Events, med and Taregh Abdolrahman won in the ‘women’s weekend The race itself was a lot of fun Agcacaoili (Philippines) Team Novice: Men: 1st – Mel Christian year. Q-Tickets, Jouf, Holiday Villa Hermi claimed the fi rst and warrior’ category while South with around 50 participants in El Padyakero; 3rd – Katrina De Vera (Philippines) Team Bike “We are very excited as the and Qatar National Convention second place respectively in the African Helena Corby won in the my category alone, 180+ in total. Agcacaoili (Philippines) Team El To Work; 2nd – Arnel Rubia (Phil- FINA World Cup will return to Centre (QNCC) are collaborating men’s Under-30 category. women’s novice category. Due to the heat, the second half Padyakero. ippines) Team Ten-O-Mile; 3rd Doha. We thank all the sponsors with QSA as the National Sup- Another fi rst-timer on Qa- In the youth U-16 category, of my race was a real challenge U-30: Men: 1st – Mohamad – Rowell Andres (Philippines) for their contribution, support pliers. tar’s MTB scene, Cornelis Jan ten riders joined and Indonesian – thanks to all the volunteers Abdolrahman Hermi (Iran) Team Team Bike To Work. and added value to this magnifi - Doha is the last stop of the Wouters (Netherlands) won in Aditya Prasetyo of Team IFME handing out water bottles.” Iran; 2nd – Taregh Abdolrahman Women: 1st – Helena Corby cent event, which will present FINA Swimming World Cup the men’s Under-40 category. won his fi rst gold medal for this Neil Melville (UK), a veteran in Hermi (Iran) Team Iran; 3rd – (South Africa); 2nd – Mary Grace the world’s best swimmers,” QSA 2019 series, and will decide the It is also worth mentioning that season. Qatar’s cycling races both Road Bobby Pertudo (Philippines) Orajay (Philippines) Team Bike President, Organising Commit- overall winners and fi nal clus- he got his second podium of the The technically challeng- and MTB said that it had become Team El Padyakero. To Work. tee Chairman and FINA Bureau ter’s champions after three days day fi nishing as runners-up in ing course which featured a lot a game for him to trying to keep U-40: 1st – Cornelis Jan Wouters Youth U-16: 1st – Aditya member Khaleel al-Jabir said in of exciting races. the Torch Stairway Run after the of short but steep climbs, took his pulse as low as possible be- (Netherlands); 2nd – Jeff rey Prasetyo (Indonesia) Team a statement. Tickets for the event can MTB race. a toll on almost all participants tween climbs just to survive for Ramos (Philippines) Team El IFME; 2nd – Muhammad Iman Omega is the Offi cial Time- be bought at https://www.q- Rasen Adventure Team Rid- with only 161 riders fi nishing the 75 minutes. Padyakero; 3rd – Fritzgerald bin Hasmin (Malaysia) Team Al keeper, while Hisamitsu tickets.com/Events/EventsDe- ers, Denrei Catalan of Philip- race out of 180 mountain bikers Michael Anderson (South Af- Borromeo (Philippines) Team El Khor Cyclists; 3rd – Ameer Ihsan pharmaceutical company, tails/7281/fina-swimming- pines & Jaco Anderson of South who bravely showed up on the rica) of Team Rasen Adventure Padyakero. (Singapore) Team Harding. Nongfu Spring – a Chinese bev- world-cup-2019

BOTTOMLINE Froome survives fi rst race since horror crash AFP The PR exercise ended with Ineos caption “We made it.” The 22-year-old Colombian said Saitama rolling home second last as local cy- One showed him grinning with he had no space in his already bulging cling team Saitama Project won the South African rider Daryl Impey and luggage for the large bags of local rice time trial in 4min 20sec. the other showed the stadium with the being given out as part of the prizes. our-time Tour de France win- It was clear Froome’s right-leg was teams on the pitch. Froome said the Also present at the race was Tour de ner Chris Froome successful- a long way off fi tness, with surgery to “loser buys the beer”. France king of the mountains Romain ly completed his fi rst competi- remove a plate on his hip set for De- After South Africa won the match Bardet, and his polka-dot jersey raised tive ride since his horror crash cember. 19-16, to set up a meeting with Eng- a cheer over the early laps as he made a inF June yesterday before hot-tailing The Briton is still in recovery after land in the fi nal next Saturday, Froome point of charging ahead on the one no- his way across Tokyo to watch the Rug- sustaining dreadful injuries in June tweeted “Beers on me” with a photo of table incline. by World Cup semi-fi nal. when he hit a brick wall at high speed, the two cyclists raising beers. “We had fun,” said Bardet. The 34-year-old took part in a team fracturing ribs, a femur, and an elbow In the criterium, Arashiro won a “We fl y home tonight but I hope to time trial run round a single lap at the after taking his hands off the handle- gala-style race run over 17 3.5km fan- be back for the Olympics in July.” Saitama Criterium meet with 2019 bars to blow his nose. packed laps of tight city streets, Ber- “I rode the fi nal part of the Olympic Tour de France winner Egan Bernal and Froome left quickly at the end of the nal was second and world No.1 Primoz route, it’s a good technical descent and Ineos teammate Jonathan Castroviejo race without talking to the media in Roglic third, a metre or so adrift. we’re looking forwards to it. There will playing bodyguard. order to get to Yokohama around 60 “I’m the fi rst Japanese rider to win be fi ve of us on the French team.” The time trial was on the undercard kilometres away in time for the kick- so maybe they’ll talk about me in Winner of the green sprint jersey for main event, the Saitama Criteri- off of the Rugby World Cup semi-fi nal 20-years. So happy. Really special,” here, Italian puncher Matteo Trentin um, and Japanese ace Yukiya Arashiro between Wales and South Africa. said the seven-time Tour de France is still smarting after settling for silver soaked up local adulation after win- The Kenyan-born Froome went to competitor. at the recent world championships in ning. school and university in South Af- Bernal said he was looking forward Yorkshire. In the time trial, Froome led the rica while his wife is a South African to visiting more of Japan with his en- “I’m just about getting over the dis- trio out to enthusiastic applause from of Welsh origin, although he was coy tourage. appointment,” he told AFP. a Saitama public that the Briton had about who he was supporting. “We’ve seen Tokyo and we’ll be “The rain there was ridiculous, I’m worked hard to win over this week with After that game kicked off , Froome moving on to Kyoto for three days only just warming up,” he said with a visits to schools and social events. tweeted two photographs, under the now,” Bernal told AFP. straight face. Gulf Times Monday, October 28, 2019 5 SPORT

MLB NHL Bruins top Blues in Cup Final rematch Astros rout Nats behind Rask

Reuters setting penalties. New York, United States With Perron back in the box for holding later in the fi rst, Pas- trnak connected on a one-timer uukka Rask stopped all that trickled past Binnington af- 8-1 to pull level in 26 shots he faced, David ter the goaltender got a piece for Pastrnak extended his a 1-0 Bruins lead at 14:59. Brad goal streak to fi ve games Marchand assisted to extend Bregman smashes HR, Tand the Boston Bruins beat the his points streak to nine games, visiting St. Louis Blues 3-0 Sat- while Pastrnak has points in Urquidy throws five urday night in a rematch of last eight straight. season’s Stanley Cup Final. The Bruins have also scored scoreless innings Rask picked up his second power-play goals in six consecu- World Series shutout of the season as the tive contests. AFP Bruins got revenge in the same Boston doubled its lead at 9:31 Washington, United States building where they lost a deci- of the second period when Bjork sive Game 7 to the Blues in June. took advantage of a 3-on-2 to Pastrnak’s goal was his ninth one-time a shot into the top of inally playing like a team during his streak, and Anders the net and end a 17-game goal- that led baseball with Bjork also scored in Boston’s sec- less drought. Grzelcyk and Dan- 107 wins this season, the ond straight victory. ton Heinen assisted. Houston Astros pulled Brandon Carlo added an emp- Rask survived a hectic St. Lou- levelF in the World Series on Sat- ty-netter for Boston with 49 sec- is power play midway through urday by routing the Washing- onds left. the second to preserve his clean ton Nationals 8-1. Jordan Binnington had 21 saves sheet. The Blues went 0-for-4 Alex Bregman smashed a for St. Louis, which had a two- on the man advantage. grand slam home run and Jose game winning streak end. Urquidy threw fi ve scoreless in- The game was testy from the RESULTS nings as Houston equalized the start, Boston captain Zdeno best-of-seven Major League Chara laying out St. Louis’ Oskar Carolina 4-0 Chicago Baseball fi nal at 2-2. Sundqvist with a hit 38 seconds Boston 3-0 St. Louis Bregman blasted a towering in. Brayden Schenn stepped in, Montreal 5-2 Toronto ball that curled just inside the and he and Chara went off for left-fi eld pole off Nationals re- off setting roughing penalties. Philadelphia 7-4 Columbus liever Fernando Rodney in the Perhaps a motivator was that Nashville 3-2 Tampa Bay seventh inning to give the Astros Sundqvist was suspended a game (OT) their fi nal margin, becoming the during the Stanley Cup Final for Anaheim 5-2 Colorado fi rst third baseman to drive in a dangerous hit from behind on fi ve runs in a World Series game. Bruins defenseman Matt Grzelcyk. Pittsburgh 3-0 Dallas “I was just trying to hit the Boston’s Torey Krug and St. Minnesota 5-1 Los Angeles ball in the air and drive in a run Louis’ David Perron would get Winnipeg 2-1 Calgary and I ended up driving in four,” tangled up at 6:13 of the period, (OT) Bregman said. “What a great resulting in another pair of off - team win. We did a great job today coming out and applying pressure.” Urquidy allowed only two hits while striking out four, the 24-year-old rookie right-hand- er tossing 45 of his 67 pitches for strikes to baffl e Washing- ton batters. He became only the second Mexican starter to win a World Series game after Fern- ando Valenzuela in 1981. “It means a lot to me. It’s his- tory for me. I feel very special for that,” Urquidy said. “I’m proud to have followed Fernando Houston Astros shortstop Alex Bregman (right) hits an RBI single during the first inning against the Washington Nationals in game four of the Valenzuela and very proud to do 2019 World Series at Nationals Park in Washington, DC, United States, on Saturday. (USA TODAY Sports) what I’ve done.” The host Nationals will start deadlocked 2-2, the game-fi ve “We got great pitching, great of- er and second round-tripper to make World Series and win game-one winner Max Scherzer winner has gone on to win the fense. Has been fun so far, want of the World Series for the game four. I’m proud of myself.” in game fi ve Sunday against title two-thirds of the time. to keep it rolling.” 35-year-old Venezuelan catch- But when the Astros removed Houston’s Gerrit Cole, whose Game six will be tomorrow in er. He became the first catcher him in the sixth inning, Wash- loss in the opener was his fi rst Houston, where game seven will CHIRINOS HOMERS AGAIN since Ted Simmons in 1982 to ington scored on a bases-loaded defeat since May after a 19-0 be played Wednesday if needed. Houston seized a 2-0 lead in homer in back-to-back World ground out to fi rst base by Juan run in 25 starts over fi ve months. The Astros, seeking a second the fi rst inning on consecutive Series games. Soto. “We haven’t hit the last cou- title in three seasons, are trying singles by Jose Altuve, Michael Urquidy, only the third Mexi- Houston responded in the ple days but I have confi dence to become only the fourth club Brantley, Bregman and Yuli Gur- can-born starter in World Series seventh when Kyle Tucker we will bounce back and get to drop the fi rst two games at riel but Robinson Chirinos hit history and the fi rst right-hand- walked, took second on a walk some big hits tomorrow,” Na- home and rally to win the World into an bases-loaded, inning- er from his homeland, silenced to George Springer and third on tionals manager Dave Martinez Series. ending double play to limit the Washington bats early. a Brantley single that loaded the said. The Nationals are trying to damage for the Nats. “After the fi rst inning I felt my bases for Bregman’s four-run “We can’t do nothing to win the fi rst title in the club’s Chirinos redeemed himself body was more relaxed to pitch,” blast. change what has happened. 50-year history and the fi rst in the fourth when, after Car- Urquidy said. “I was thinking Washington only managed Let’s get ready for tomorrow. crown for Washington since los Correa walked, he smashed a couple of moments, ‘Oh my one hit after that over the last Don’t think ahead of the next 1924. a two-run homer into the left- God, I’m in the World Series three innings but leftfi elder Solo game. Focus on the here and “This is what it’s all about. It’s fi eld stands for a 4-0 Astros pitching.’ denied a Houston run by throw- Boston Bruins goaltender Tuukka Rask (left) makes a save on St. Louis now.” a beautiful thing — two teams lead. “My dream was to make ma- ing out Chirinos at home plate in Blues’ Ryan O’Reilly (right) during the NHL at TD Garden in Boston, When a World Series has been battling it out,” Bregman said. It was the third playoff hom- jor leagues. I never imagined the ninth inning. Massachusetts, United States, on Saturday. (USA TODAY Sports)

NBA Suns cool off Clippers, Westbrook passes Magic for career triple-doubles career triple double to pass Mag- AFP RESULTS Los Angeles, United States ic Johnson for second on the all- time list, behind only Oscar Rob- Miami 131-126 Milwaukee ertson’s 181. (OT) he Phoenix Suns held off Westbrook had 28 points, a fourth quarter charge 13 assists and 10 rebounds and Philadelphia 117-111 Detroit by the Los Angeles Clip- James Harden had a poor shoot- Atlanta 103-99 Orlando pers to squeeze out a ing night but still managed 29 Boston 118-95 New York T130-122 win on Saturday for their points. fi rst victory in the series in three “I know nowadays getting a Cleveland 110-99 Indiana years. triple-double seems normal, but Toronto 108-84 Chicago Devin Booker scored 30 points, I take a lot of pride (in it),” West- Houston 126-123 New Orleans Kelly Oubre added 20 as the Suns brook said. “For me, that’s a great outgunned the Kawhi Leonard- accomplishment. Now, I’m able Utah 113-81 Sacramento led Clipper off ence in front of a to be in the history books.” San Antonio 124-122 Washington crowd of 18,000 at the Talking Elsewhere the Miami Heat Phoenix 130-122 LA Clippers Stick Resort Arena. completed a superb second-half “That’s going to be our identi- comeback to spoil Giannis An- ty,” said Booker. “It is a whole dif- tetokounmpo and the Milwaukee HIGHLIGHT REEL ferent mindset. A whole diff erent Bucks’ home opener with a 131- Antetokounmpo delivered a mentality. We are all moving as 126 overtime victory. highlight reel moment with his one and we are sticking together.” Reigning NBA MVP Antetok- improvised tip-in to tie it up at Phoenix led by 15 points half- ounmpo led the scoring with 29 121-121. way through the fi nal quarter but points, including a magical buzz- Down by two with three sec- the Clippers cut it to six on Leon- er-beating tip-in to force over- onds remaining, the Bucks in- ard’s three pointer with less than time, but was unable to thwart bounded to Khris Middleton who two minutes remaining. Phoe- Miami’s victory charge. launched a long-range eff ort nix’s Tyler Johnson then drained The Heat, missing star Jimmy from the perimeter. a shot from beyond the arc to Butler, had trailed by 21 points With the shot falling short, blunt the Los Angeles rally. in the third quarter but exploded Antetokounmpo collected in The Suns won for the fi rst time to overwhelm the Bucks down mid-air and dropped the ball into since losing centre Deandre Ay- the stretch, outscoring the home the basket to force overtime. ton to a 25-game suspension for a team by 16 points in the fourth However the Heat proved the failed drug test. quarter and overtime. stronger in overtime, outscoring Phoenix also halted a 12-game Goran Dragic led the Miami the Bucks 10-5 to close out the losing skid to the Clippers. scoring with 25 points from win. Frank Kaminsky had 18 points, Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (left) passes the ball against Phoenix Suns forward Dario Saric in the first half of the NBA game at the bench while Bam Adebayo Butler missed Wednesday’s eight rebounds and six assists for Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona, United States, on Saturday. (USA TODAY Sports) weighed in with 19 points, 13 re- season-opening win as well af- the Suns, who have won two of bounds and eight assists. ter his girlfriend gave birth to the season’s fi rst three games for we got off to a great start. They Los Angeles was led by Mon- everything. We deserved to lose,” double since joining Houston to Kendrick Nunn added 18 a baby girl. The Heat were also the fi rst time since 2015. were the Clippers, but we were trezl Harrell’s 28 points and 27 Clipper coach Doc Rivers said. lead the Rockets to a 126-123 win points while four other Miami missing power forward James “Holding that team to 22 pretty good,” said coach Monty from Leonard. Elsewhere, Russell Westbrook over the New Orleans Pelicans. players fi nished with double digit Johnson and shooting guard points in the fi rst quarter means Williams. “I thought we were late on posted his second straight triple Westbrook recorded his 139th tallies. Dion Waiters. Gulf Times 6 Monday, October 28, 2019 SPORT

TENNIS SPOTLIGHT Estonian Tanak wins world Federer brushes championship

Reuters Neuville beat Tanak by 17.2 Madrid seconds in the rally, based around Salou on Spain’s eastern coast, for his third win of the season with oyota’s Ott Tanak be- team mate Dani Sordo third and De Minaur aside to came the fi rst Estonian just 0.4 behind Tanak. driver to win the world The Belgian had led from Sat- rally championship when urday morning with Tanak going The fi nished second in Spain yes- into yesterday in third place and terday, ending the sport’s 15-year needing to get ahead of Sordo. domination by French Sebastiens. The fi rst and third places in A generation has grown up the mixed surface event extended knowing no other champion than Hyundai’s lead over Toyota in the claim Basel title Sebastien Loeb, who won nine manufacturers’ standings to 18 titles in a row, or Sebastien Ogier points. “It’s diffi cult to say the ‘Being a ballboy really inspired me. But I cannot believe that I’ve won here 10 times’ who took another six successive pressure I felt this weekend, it was crowns. next level. To manage all this and Tanak is Toyota’s fi rst drivers’ get through it has been the target champion since Frenchman Di- of my life. When you are on the dier Auriol in 1994. verge of this you cannot imagine Tanak scored fi ve bonus points it,” Tanak told the wrc.com web- in the fi nal Power Stage to extend site. his lead over Hyundai’s Rally of “I never wanted to take risks Spain winner Thierry Neuville to but my mother said yesterday 36 points with one more round evening that if I want something I in Australia remaining worth a can make it happen. I just had to maximum 30. make it happen.”

Switzerland’s Roger Federer (centre) celebrates with his trophy after his 10th victory at the Swiss Indoors in Basel, Switzerland, yesterday. (AFP)

AFP 103rd career trophy. honour of his landmark title. his own slender hopes prior to tournament to 24 matches. His Basel, Switzerland The 20-time Grand Slam Federer broke twice per set the start. last loss at the event came in the champion said it was as a ball- against his 20-year-old Aus- “I was hoping Roger might 2013 fi nal to Juan Martin del Po- boy at the St Jakobshalle more tralian opponent in a win last- just get sick of winning, but that tro. oger Federer won his than two decades ago that he got ing just over an hour in front of didn’t happen. Now, he is just six short of the 10th Basel title yester- his fi rst taste of tennis. a full-house of 9,000. “He was too good again, it’s record 109 ATP trophies held by day, smothering young “Being a ballboy really in- Federer defeated the 28th- amazing. It was a dream to play American Jimmy Connors. Australian Alex De Mi- spired me,” he said. “But I can- ranked De Minaur in their fi rst him here in Basel. Federer is due to play next naurR 6-2, 6-2 to secure what not believe that I’ve won here 10 meeting. “It’s been a great season for week at the Paris Masters, the the Swiss legend described as times. “Alex has had a great year,” me, I’ll just keep pushing for fi nal event of the regular season “an unbelievable” success at the “I never even thought that I Federer said. “It’s not easy to bigger and better things.” before the November 10 start of home-town tournament where would win it once, this has been win tournaments and he’s done Federer’s 10 Basel titles ties the ATP Finals in London. he used to work as a ballboy. an unbelievable week for me.” it three times already this year. the 10 he owns from Halle. He He now owns four titles this The 38-year-old had to con- With his wife, children and “There is more to come for has also won Wimbledon eight season after Dubai, Miami and trol his emotions as he drew parents watching, Federer was you. As for me, I hope to be back times. Halle. a loud and heartfelt standing presented with a metal sculp- here next year to celebrate the Yesterday’s fi nal was his 75th De Minaur was bidding to be- ovation from his home public ture depicting a life-sized hand 50th anniversary of this event.” win in Basel and extended his come the fi rst Australian to ever during the presentation for his ready to toss a tennis ball in De Minaur joked that he had win streak at his hometown win the title in Basel. Osaka beats Kvitova, Barty blasts Bencic in thrilling WTA Finals opener Naomi Osaka and Ashleigh Barty 56 minutes. The result secured In-form Osaka outlasted Petra In a rematch of this year’s tense to draw first blood. both won three-set matches the year-end No.1 ranking for the Kvitova 7-6 (7/1), 4-6, 6-4 in two Australian Open final, world No.6 It seemed to shake the Czech’s at the WTA Finals yesterday in Australian. hours and 39 minutes to notch Kvitova came out with intent confidence but Kvitova, the oldest a gruelling opening day of the “I gave Belinda too many looks her first victory at the WTA Finals until she stuttered in the eighth player in the draw, impressively $14mn round-robin tournament. at second serves in the first set,” after a winless campaign in her game of the opening set with clawed back in the second Barty joined the Japanese Barty told reporters. “That was the debut appearance last year. She three double faults to squander set and took advantage of an sensation at the top of Red Group key for the second and third sets... stretched her current winning the game. Osaka held off two error-strewn Osaka who several with a 5-7, 6-1, 6-2 victory over try to dominate a little bit more streak to 11 matches having break points in the ninth game times slammed her racquet in Ott Tanak (right) and his co-driver Martin Jarveoja celebrate on the Belinda Bencic in one hour and with the first serve.” claimed titles in Osaka and Beijing. before dominating the tiebreak frustration. podium after winning the FIA World Rally Championship title in Salou, near Tarragona, yesterday. (AFP)

MOTORSPORT Marquez rides luck to win in Australia Reuters up, these four or fi ve (fi nal) focus was restored by the time Melbourne laps, it would be possible (for) of the race. the victory,” said Marquez, who In a furious start, Dani- started third on the grid. lo Petrucci high-sided after otoGP world cham- “We took a gamble because brushing by Marquez on the pion Marc Marquez we went with the soft rear fi rst lap and he took out French rode his luck on (tyre). It was completely de- rider Fabio Quartararo as he “destroyed” tyres stroyed but OK, able to win the fl ew off his Ducati. beforeM swooping late to win race.” Petrucci rolled across track the Australian Grand Prix for Marquez’s 55th premier class and gravel at high speed to raise Honda yesterday as pole-sitter win moved him past Australian fears for his safety but he got Maverick Vinales’s challenge Mick Doohan to outright third gingerly to his feet and limped ended with a crash. in the all-time list behind Ital- away with the help of track Marquez, who sewed up his ian great Valentino Rossi (89) staff . sixth MotoGP title and fourth and Giacomo Agostini (68). Rossi avoided the mayhem in a row in Thailand three weeks The relentless 26-year-old and shot into a surprise lead ago, roared past Vinales on the notched his fi fth race win in but soon relinquished it to straight as they entered the succession, his best run since Crutchlow. fi nal lap at Phillip Island and 2014. Vinales swiped the lead from held off his fellow Spaniard in a Rossi placed eighth for Crutchlow with 18 laps left nerve-jangling fi nish. Yamaha after qualifying fourth before Marquez aggressively Pushing his Yamaha hard to in his 400th race weekend. barged his way past the Briton reel in Marquez, Vinales spun Qualifying was staged on the into second place to set up his out at the Lukey Heights sec- morning of the race after be- late raid. Marquez extended his tion of the seaside circuit, ing called off on Saturday due championship lead to an un- handing Briton Cal Crutchlow to safety concerns following beatable 375 points with two the runnerup spot on his non- Miguel Oliveira’s crash amid races remaining in Malaysia and works LCR Honda, with lo- high winds during practice. on home soil in Valencia. cal hero Jack Miller third for An error on Marquez’s fi nal Ducati’s Andrea Dovizioso, Pramac Ducati. fl ying lap cost him a better po- who fi nished seventh at Phillip “I knew that if I didn’t give sition on the grid but his laser Island, is second on 240 points. Marc Marquez of Spain holds up the trophy after winning the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island yesterday. (AFP) Gulf Times Monday, October 28, 2019 7 SPORT

GOLF FOCUS Ko named LPGA Tour Player of the Year Woods on verge of Reuters I could ever receive.” Busan, South Korea Ko, named Rookie of the Year in 2018, has won four events this year including two majors — the orld number one Ko ANA Inspiration title in Califor- Jin-young picked up nia and The Evian Championship the Rolex Player of in Evian-les-Bains, France. the Year award for No other player has won four record-equalling theW fi rst time after the 24-year- times on the LPGA Tour this sea- old forged an unassailable lead in son. Ko has also won six LPGA the 2019 rankings, the LPGA Tour Tour events in less than two years announced yesterday. since joining the tour. With three more events re- She also recorded eight more maining on the LPGA Tour, South top-10 fi nishes, another season- Korean Ko has 241 points to lead high which included three run- compatriot Lee Jeong-eun by 118. ner-up spots, and did not miss PGA Tour title win “I’m so thankful to win the the cut in 20 starts. Rolex Player of the Year award,” “Some of my golf heroes have ‘IT’S ONE OF THE HARDEST PAR FOURS ON THE WHOLE GOLF COURSE’ Ko, who fi rst became number one won this award and I can’t be- in April, said in a statement. lieve that my name is now on the AFP “This was one of the best years same list,” Ko added. “I can’t wait Inzai, Japan of my career and to earn this to see what the future brings for award is one of the best honours me.”

iger Woods led Hideki Matsuyama by three strokes with seven holes to play to stand on the Tverge of golfi ng history when the fi nal round of the weather- delayed Zozo Championship in Japan was suspended due to bad light yesterday. Victory for Woods today would see the 15-time major champion add another illustri- ous chapter to his astonishing career by equalling US legend Sam Snead’s all-time mark of 82 PGA Tour wins. Woods, who is 17-under par, shook hands for the night with playing partners Gary Wood- land and Keegan Bradley in the descending darkness after par- ring the 11th hole in his fourth round. But the current US Masters champion is taking nothing for granted and said he will need to hit the ground running today morning. “Starting off on the 12th hole is not easy. It’s one of the hard- est par fours on the whole golf course, it’s 490 yards,” Woods told reporters. “It’s going to be cool tomor- row morning, so the hole’s go- ing to play really long, so it’s important that I get off to a good Ko Jin-young checks the line of her putt on the second green during start. the final round of LPGA Tour in Busan, South Korea, yesterday. (AFP) “It’s a hard pin tomorrow over in the top right. I’ve got to do my job starting out.” Japan’s number one Mat- Tiger Woods tees off the 9th hole during the final round of the Zozo Championship at Narashino Country Club in Inzai, Chiba, Japan, yester- Beijing to hold fi rst 2022 suyama, in the group imme- day. (Reuters) diately ahead, had clung dog- test event in February gedly to the coat-tails of Woods 12th green somehow found its a controlled third-round 66 12-footer for birdie on 17 and safety reasons after almost 10 China’s capital Beijing will hold its three competition zones for throughout yesterday’s third way to the cup in the gloom and to extend a two-shot lead over then I’ll try to make birdie or inches of rain fell on the course first test event for the 2022 Winter the 2022 Games, and will host and fourth rounds, delayed be- Matsuyama moved to 14-un- Woodland (68) to three over eagle at the last and fi nish as during Friday’s storms, were Olympics in February, when it Alpine Skiing, Bobsleigh and cause of Friday’s washout at der par, three behind Woods Matsuyama, who carded a 65. high up as possible.” gleefully allowed back in. hosts an Alpine Skiing World Cup Luge. Beijing and the nearby Accordia Golf Narashino Coun- with six to play when the round Rory McIlroy was the biggest “I’m happy for the crowds, event, state news agency Xinhua city of Zhangjiakou won the try Club. resumes at 7.30am today (2230 mover as he catapulted up the ELECTRIC ATMOSPHERE I’m happy for the people of Ja- said yesterday. right to host the Games in 2015. After Woods had fi nished he GMT Sunday). leaderboard with a third-round Tied for third on 12-under par pan that they got to see us play A total of 111 athletes from 19 The only other city bidding was still had time to induce one last “I am only thinking how to 63, equalling the low round of are in-form US Open champion a lot today,” said Northern Ire- countries and regions have Almaty in Kazakhstan, after other mighty roar from the packed catch up and win the tourna- the week, to follow his 65 on Woodland, third last week at land’s McIlroy. already registered to compete in competitors dropped out, citing golf-crazy galleries hanging off ment,” said Matsuyama. “Let’s Saturday. the CJ Cup, and PGA Tour 2019 “Obviously Tiger leading, the Feb. 15-16 event in Yanqing to costs and other worries. While every Matsuyama drive, chip see what is going to happen in The FedEx Cup champion lies Rookie of the Year Im Sung-jae Hideki chasing him down, you the north of Beijing, Xinhua said. Beijing hosted the 2008 Summer and putt at the US PGA Tour’s the last six holes tomorrow.” fi fth on 11-under par with two who had a third-round 67. couldn’t have written it any It will feature two disciplines Games to wide acclaim, its bid for inaugural tournament in Japan. Woods, who has led since his holes to complete. The atmosphere was electric better for the fi rst PGA Tour — men’s downhill and men’s the Winter Games was dogged by The world number 27’s snak- fi rst-round six-under 64 on “I played great this morn- yesterday as the sellout crowds, event in Japan,” added the world super G. Yanqing is one of the concern over numerous issues. ing 25-foot birdie putt on the Thursday, earlier yesterday shot ing,” said McIlroy. “I’ve got a who were shut out Saturday for number two.

SPOTLIGHT Kejelcha wins Valencia Korea’s Jang clinches Busan half-marathon LPGA in play-off nailbiter AFP “I’m also happy that I went into Busan, South Korea play-off with one of my closest friends,” she said after claiming the trophy. outh Korea’s Jang Ha-na “Out on the course, we’re really clinched the inaugural good rivals. She’s really good com- BMW Ladies Champion- petition, and we’ve had this rela- ship in a nailbiting fi nale tionship for 15 years,” Jang added. withS Danielle Kang yesterday, “I’m just really happy that we edging the American on home turf managed to make a really good in a three-hole playoff . memory on this course.” The former world number 10 It was Jang’s fi rst victory in a US was one off the pace overnight LPGA tournament since February and slipped to four behind before 2017 in Australia, shortly before an eagle on the par-fi ve 11th hole she abruptly returned to domestic drew her back into contention at competition to spend more time the $2mn competition in Busan. with her family. It was a cruel defeat for Kang — But she said any talk of return- riding high after a win in Shanghai ing to the American tour was pre- on her 27th birthday last weekend mature. One former Alberto Salazar- same course in 2017, but — who fi nished with a fi nal round “My mother is not quite well coached athlete Ethiopian finished second, 21 seconds of eight under par 64, a tourna- yet,” Jang said. “I think I would Yomif Kejelcha won the men’s behind Ethiopian Senbere ment record which included a have an answer for you regarding half marathon in Valencia Teferi. four-birdie run from the eighth returning to the LPGA later on. I yesterday, while another, Hassan, who completed the hole. can’t say right now.” Dutchwoman Sifan Hassan, unusual double of 10,000m “Honestly, I’m proud that I gave Local contenders dominated was second in the women’s and 1,500m in Doha, crossed it everything I’ve got,” she said. the top of the leaderboard, with 10 race after a fall. the line in 1hr 05 min 53 sec “Sometimes you don’t lose. You South Koreans placing in the top Kejelcha, the 10,000m after taking a tumble early in just get beat, and I got beat today.” 12 fi nishers. silver medallist in the World the race. Kang’s short game has been in Amy Yang fi nished third on Championships in Doha earlier Hassan and Kejelcha were searing form but failed her on the 16-under for the tournament, four in the month, won in 59min both part of the Nike Oregon second play-off hole — the 412- clear of Chun In-gee and Somi 5sec, ahead of Kenyan Bernard Project, an elite group put yard 18th — when a putt from Lee. Ngeno (59:07). together by Salazar, who has 10 feet skirted around the hole, World number one Ko Jin- Hassan had been aiming to been suspended from the prompting the American to throw young struggled after leading with break the world best of 1hr sport for four years after a up her arms in frustration. Kang on the fi rst day, rounding out 4min 51sec set by Kenyan six-year investigation by the US Jang claimed the title on the the weekend with two rounds of 71 Jang Ha-na poses with the trophy at the awards ceremony after winning the LPGA tournament in Joyciline Jepkosgei on the Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). next hole with a birdie. to tie for ninth. Busan, South Korea, yesterday. (AFP)

Monday, October 28, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

MOTORCYCLING AWARDS CEREMONY

World Superbikes champion Jonathan Rea (C) poses with World Supersport champion Randy Krummenacher (BARDAHL Evan Bros. WorldSSP Team) and WorldSSP300 Champion Manuel Gonzalez (Kawasaki ParkinGO Team) during the awards ceremony at the Losail International Circuit on Saturday night. Middle picture shows LCSC Vice President and General Manager Khalid al-Remaihi awarding Krummenacher, while picture on right shows QMMF President Abdulrahman al-Mannai honouring Gonzalez.

CRICKET SPOTLIGHT Papua New Guinea hammer Kenya to Warner’s birthday book maiden T20 World Cup place

AFP World Cup in Australia next Dubai year could wait. T20 ton as Aussies “We’ll start thinking about that tomorrow. We are just go- apua New Guinea will ing to enjoy the moment. For make their fi rst ever them to achieve this is a great appearance at a World thing for us and for the na- PCup after beating tion.” Kenya in Dubai yesterday to PNG were facing disaster as book their place at next year’s they slipped to 19-6 in four thrash Sri Lanka T20 World Cup. overs but Norman Vanua led PNG hammered Kenya by the recovery, clubbing 54 from ‘The tone was set by Finchy. I tried to go on and be there at the end’ 45 runs at Dubai International 48 balls and sharing a seventh Stadium but had to wait for wicket partnership of 77 with the result of the Netherlands’ Ses Bau. game against Scotland before Kenya needed to reach the they could celebrate their au- target of 118 in 12 overs to have SCORECARD tomatic qualifi cation for the any chance of qualifying for tournament in Australia next the play-off s but the batsmen Australia K. Perera b Starc 16 year. The Dutch beat Scotland were unable to get out of fi rst A. Finch c Mendis b Sandakan O. Fernando b Agar 13 by four wickets but failed to gear. 64 D. Shanaka c Richardson b knock off the 131 they needed Opener Irfan Karim was the D. Warner not out 100 Zampa 17 for victory in 12.3 overs which only person to hit a bound- G. Maxwell c Perera b Shanaka W. Hasaranga run out meant that PNG topped the ary and top-scored with 29 62 (Maxwell) 5 group with a higher net run as Kenya slid to 73 all out. A. Turner not out 1 L. Sandakan c Agar b Zampa 6 rate. Nosaina Pokana was the most Extras (nb1, w5) 6 L. Malinga not out 13 “I am feeling a little emo- successful of the PNG bowlers Total (2 wickets, 20 overs) 233 K. Rajitha st Carey b Zampa 0 tional,” PNG’s Australian with 3-21. Fall of wickets: 1-122 (Finch), N. Pradeep not out 8 coach Joe Dawes told the ICC. The six teams fi nishing 2-229 (Maxwell) Extras (lb6, nb1, w1) 8 “It’s been a pretty big two highest in the Dubai qualifying Did not bat: S. Smith, A. Carey, Total (9 wickets, 20 overs) 99 years, for them to achieve this tournament will join Sri Lanka A. Agar, P. Cummins, M. Starc, K. Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Mendis), is pretty special.” and Bangladesh in the fi rst Richardson, A. Zampa 2-13 (Gunathilaka), 3-13 (Ra- The former Queensland fast group stage of the World Cup Bowling: Malinga 4-0-37-0 japaksa), 4-46 (Fernando), 5-50 bowler said planning for the in October 2020. (2w), Rajitha 4-0-75-0 (1nb), (Perera), 6-71 (Hasaranga), 7-71 Pradeep 4-0-28-0, Sandakan (Shanaka), 8-82 (Sandakan), 4-0-41-1 (1w), Hasaranga 3-0-42- 9-83 (Rajitha) PROPOSAL 0, Shanaka 1-0-10-1 (1w) Bowling: Starc 4-0-18-2, Rich- ardson 4-0-21-0 (1w, 1nb), Cum- Sri Lanka mins 4-0-27-2, Zampa 4-0-14-3, D. Gunathilaka c Warner b Cum- Agar 4-0-13-1 BCCI wants to hold mins 11 Australia’s David K. Mendis c Turner b Starc 0 Result: Australia won by 134 Warner celebrates B. Rajapaksa b Cummins 2 runs reaching his century fi rst day-night Test against Sri Lanka yesterday. at Eden Gardens, AFP 0-75 off four overs proving the “The tone was set by Finchy. on a hat-trick after dismissing 17 and wicketkeeper Kusal Perera Adelaide most expensive fi gures in a T20 I tried to go on and be there at Danushka Gunathilaka (11) and hit 16 before he was bowled by international.“It’s great to come the end. I’d like to think we have Bhanuka Rajapaksa (2) with suc- Mitchell Starc. says BCB’s Khan out and play on nice true wick- enough runs.” cessive deliveries in his opening Skipper Lasith Malinga was avid Warner emphati- ets,” man-of-the-match Warner Sri Lanka were always strug- over. still there at the end with an un- IANS ‘We have received the cally bounced back to said as he left the arena. gling in reply, with Pat Cummins Dasun Shanaka top scored with beaten 13. “Lovely start to the New Delhi letter two or three days form with a fi rst-ever summer. The boys were fantastic, (back) and we will take Twenty20 century as Warner and Finchy were superb,” a decision in this regard AustraliaD crushed Sri Lanka by Starc said. he Board of Control but we have not discussed 134 runs in their opening match “The bowling too was clinical, for Cricket in India it (yet). We will let them of the series in Adelaide yester- a bit of work to do in the fi elding, (BCCI) would like the know about our decision day but a great performance all in all.” second Test of the within one or two days’ Birthday boy Warner clubbed Finch bludgeoned three sixes Tupcoming series between In- an unbeaten 100 as he powered and eight fours in Australia’s in- dia and Bangladesh to be a in the Bangladesh series. Australia to a massive 233 for two, nings before holing out to Kusal day-night Test, according to The fi rst Test will start on aided by century stands with Mendis at deep mid-wicket the Bangladesh Cricket Board November 14 in Indore while skipper Aaron Finch and Glenn off left-arm spinner Lakshan (BCB). In that case, the iconic the second is scheduled to be Maxwell. Sandakan for 64 off 36 balls. Eden Gardens in Kolkata could played at the Eden Gardens Sri Lanka limped to 99 for nine The Aussie skipper shared in a be host to India’s fi rst-ever from November 22. from their 20 overs in a meek re- free-hitting opening stand of 122 day-night Test. However, the BCB chief Nizamuddin sponse, with leg-spinner Adam with Warner and looked in omi- BCB is yet to consent to it. Chowdhury said that the Zampa capturing three for 14. nous scoring form before he top- “They (BCCI) have pro- board can take a decision only Coming off a dismal Ashes edged the leg-spinner in the 11th posed (a Day-Night Test) and after getting players’ and team campaign in England and low over. Maxwell showcased a wide we will let them know after management’s consent. scores in the new domestic sea- range of improvised shot-making thinking a while,” BCB cricket “At fi rst we have to take the son, Warner plundered his ton for his 62 off just 28 balls, stud- operation Chairman Akram consent of the players and off 56 balls with four sixes and 10 ded with three sixes and seven Khan told reporters yesterday. members of the team man- fours. fours. He partnered Warner in “We have received the let- agement about it. It is totally The left-handed opener scored a 107-run stand and was dis- ter two or three days (back) a technical matter (playing just 95 runs in 10 innings for Aus- missed, caught behind off Dasun and we will take a decision in day-night Test from skill per- tralia’s Ashes retention, but once Shanaka in the fi nal over of the this regard but we have not spective) and we have to con- he got set Sunday he pounded the innings. discussed it (yet). We will let sider that there is preparation Sri Lankan bowlers with belliger- It was Australia’s highest them know about our deci- required to play a Test with a ence, and reached his hundred off T20 total at home since their sion within one or two days,” pink ball,” he said according to the last ball of the innings. 221 against England in Sydney he said. Cricbuzz. The ton on his 33rd birthday in 2007. Australia face the Sri Newly-elected BCCI Presi- The tour starts with a three- was complemented by blister- Lankans in Brisbane and Mel- dent Sourav Ganguly had ear- match T20I series, the fi rst of ing half-centuries from Finch bourne before Pakistan arrive for lier said that since Indian cap- which will be played on No- and Maxwell, as the Austral- T20s in Sydney, Canberra and tain Virat Kohli is agreeable, vember 3. The Test series will ians ripped into the Sri Lankan Perth as they prepare to host the India could be playing its fi rst be Bangladesh’s fi rst in the bowlers — with Kasun Rajitha’s T20 World Cup next October. ever day-night Test as soon as World Test Championship.