CCRICKETRICKET | Page 2 TTENNISENNIS | Page 3 Mathews Belarus’ returns to Sabalenka SL squad for clinches third England Tests straight title

Thursday, January 14, 2021 FOOTBALL Jumada II 1, 1442 AH Fetfatzidid’s twin GULF TIMES strikes help Al Khor shock Al Ahli SPORT Page 7 FOCUS Judo star Riner ‘back on top’ aft er Doha Masters win World champion Madeleine Malonga wins gold in the women’s -78kg category

By Yash Mudgal Doha

udo legend Teddy Riner is back again after a surprise 2020 season, which in- cluded two defeats. JThe double Olympic champion easily beat Inal Tasoev to win the Doha Masters and opened his season on a high ahead of the Ol- ympics. The rejuvenated French- man was looking confi dent throughout the men’s +100kg fi nal against the world No 3 Rus- sian, who received three shido penalties. “It’s good to be back on top after a long gap and qualify for the Tokyo Olympic Games. I was very focused on getting the win in Doha and I’m so happy I suc- ceeded,” Riner said. Riner’s decade-long winning streak, which spanned 154 bouts, was ended in February 2020 on home soil at the Paris Grand Slam by Kageura Kokoro of Japan. “The opponent was strong, but I managed to outdo him. The venue was absolutely fantastic and I really enjoyed fi ghting here. France’s Teddy Riner (right) and Russia’s Inal Tasoev in action during the I always kept my focus and was men’s +100kg final yesterday. intent only on winning the gold medal here,” he said. Qatar Olympic Committee President HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani crowns the winners of men’s +100kg category of the Doha Masters Riner’s gold was the third of judo tournament at the Lusail Multipurpose Hall yesterday. PICTURES: Jayan Orma the day for France that fi nished at the top of the table with over- Romane Dicko in +78kg cat- of the year and I am very happy Bronze: Yakiv Khammo (Ukraine) Women’s -78kg all fi ve golds, one silver and one egory won the other gold for to win a gold medal here. It is a and Henk Grol (Netherlands) Gold: Madeleine Malonga bronze. France. She defeated Iryna big achievement in this Olympic (France) The other two gold of the day Kindzerska of Azerbaijan. year. I was in top form and with Men’s -100kg Silver: Shori Hamada (Japan) for France was won by Madeleine The current World Champion these points which I got today Gold: Varlam Lipartelini (Gerogia) Bronze: Guusje Steenhuis (Neth- Malonga, who defeated Shori in men’s -90kg category, Noel I think I am safe and will go for Silver: Zelym Kotsoiev (Aze) erlands), Loriana Kuka (Kosova) Hamada of Japan in the women’s Van T End won the gold medal. He the Olympics for sure. This is a Bronze: Peter Latchik (Israel) and -78kg category. had diffi cult contests throughout very nice tournament with a few Arman Adamian (Russia) Best female athlete: Dlcko “I am very happy. It was a dif- the preliminary rounds, but Noel problems with the coronavirus Romane (FRANCE) – 4 ippon – 9 fi cult competition. It is the start found the necessary energy to go but hospitality is very good and Men’s -90kg minutes and 3 seconds. of the year and it was important through to the fi nal. the weather here is very nice. The Gold: Noel Van T End (Nether- Best male athlete: Grigalashvili to win for me. It is the year of In a high pressure fi nal Gero- organisation is very good and I lands) Tato (GEORGIA) – 4 ippon – 16 the Olympics and since I am the gia’s Beka Gviniashvili dominat- am happy to perform here again. Silver: Beka Gviniashvili (Gerogia) minutes and 33 seconds. world and European champion ed the bout, but he was too late to I look forward to coming here Bronze: Eduard Trippel (Germa- I wanted to win this event so I avoid Van T End’s waza-ari score. again for the World Champion- ny) and Lasha Bekauri (Georgia) MEDALS TABLE am now targeting the Olympic In the end the champion applied ships in 2023,” T End said. G S B Games. It was a big break dur- a lightning fast strangle for an Women’s +78kg 1. France 5 1 1 ing events because of the virus ippon fi nish almost at the bell to RESULTS Gold: Romane Dicko (France) 2. South Korea 3 0 0 and was diffi cult to prepare but I win the fi rst gold for the Nether- Men’s +100kg Silver: Iryna Kindzerska (Aze) 3. Japan 2 5 0 trained daily for this event,” said lands. Gold: Teddy Riner (France) Bronze: Nihel Cheikh Rouhou 4. Georgia 2 1 2 France’s Madeleine Malonga (left) and Japan’s Shori Hamada in action Malonga. “This is the fi rst tournament Silver: Inal Tasoev (Russia) (Tun) and Kayra Sayit (Turkey) 5. Netherlands 1 1 5 during the women’s -78kg final.

DAKAR RALLY 17 minutes separate al-Attiyah and Peterhansel; bike leader Nacho retires

AFP Price received immediate assist- Al Ula, Saudi Arabia ance from defending champion Ricky Brabec, who won Wednes- day’s stage to sit just 50 seconds atar’s Nasser Saleh al- adrift of his Honda teammate, Attiyah took a small Argentine Kevin Benavides ahead chunk out of 13-time of today’s penultimate and deci- champion Stéphane sive 11th stage. Peterhansel’sQ lead, even as Dakar Price posted a photo of him- Rally motorbike leader Jose Igna- self from his hospital bed giving a cio Cornejo was forced to retire thumbs up on Twitter alongside after a fall yesterday with tomor- an update on his medical condi- row’s fi nish line agonisingly. tion. Frenchman Peterhansel, how- “Finally broken my 30th bone! ever, still enjoys a 17-minute I don’t remember much but I’ve cushion over the Qatari star and got a pretty sore collarbone, a record-extending 14th Dakar shoulder and hand and will need crown now looks his to lose. surgery for that...” “Being in the lead is the best Qatar’s Nasser al-Attiyah and co-Driver Matthieu Baumel of France in action during stage 10 of the Dakar France’s Stephane Peterhansel and co-Driver Edouard Boulanger in He expressed disappointment position, but it’s also where Rally between Neom and Al Ula in Saudi Arabia yesterday. (Reuters) action during stage 10 yesterday. (Reuters) at not riding into Jeddah, and you’ve got the most to lose,” said thanked Brabec and British rider the 55-year-old Frenchman who Yanbu. yah’s wing mirrors with the day’s strategy, we’ll just keep driving stage he agreed with the rally’s ean rider was airlifted to hospital Sam Sunderland for coming to was fi rst crowned champion in Peterhansel is approaching the honours going to Saudi driver fast,” said the three-time winner. medical department to retire for where he joined Toby Price, the his rescue. 1991 before luckless Cornejo was stage with plenty of caution as to Yazeed al-Rajhi. The 26-year-old Honda rider fear of having suff ered concus- Australian two-time champion “Thank you @Sundersam and even born. what the rest of the Dakar may For al-Attiyah, “tomorrow will Cornejo, nicknamed ‘Nacho’, sion. who requires collarbone surgery @rickyB357 for stopping to help Today’s 11th stage features a have in store for him. decide the Dakar”. fell 252km into the 10th stage in The Dakar was living up to its after suff ering a dreadful fall on me, I was off with the fairies that 464 kilometre timed special, the He came in third yesterday, “It’s going to be a tricky stage, Saudi Arabia and although he fearsome reputation for the sec- Tuesday’s ninth stage. day but I heard you took good longest of the rally, from Al Ula to fi nishing in runner-up al-Atti- but we’ll do our best. There’s no remounted and completed the ond time in 24 hours as the Chil- Dazed after landing on his head care of me!” Gulf Times 2 Thursday, January 14, 2021 CRICKET

FIRST TEST SPOTLIGHT Australia’s Lyon Mathews returns excited to join ‘pure legends’ in 100 club

Reuters He said he hoped it would be Melbourne the fi rst of many series triumphs he would be a part of before winding down his career. “I’m pinner Nathan Lyon will far from being done,” Lyon said. to Sri Lanka squad “I’m still hungrier than ever. I be pinching himself when he dons the baggy green want to go out there and play as cap of Australia and joins much cricket for Australia as I theS 100-Test club for the fourth can. I’m still learning... I’ll con- and fi nal match against India at tinue to learn, 100 Test matches the Gabba tomorrow. and beyond.” The 33-year-old will become Lyon hasn’t had the best series Australia’s 13th cricketer to play so far against India, with only six for England Tests wickets to show for in the three 100 Tests, joining an honour roll of greats topped by former cap- concluded games. However, the tains Ricky Ponting and Steve prospect of playing at the Gabba, ‘We have a clear advantage against England, because they’ve got a few new players’ Waugh (168). “I look at the other which off ers more bounce than 12 guys who have played more the fl at track of Sydney, excites than 100 Test matches of cricket the milestone man. for Australia and they’re pure “This summer has been chal- legends,” Lyon told reporters lenging. Playing against India, yesterday. “Not just for Australia again, I think they’ve come up but (others from) all around the with some really good plans to world, I’m going to pinch my- combat me. To be honest, I’ve self each and everyday to see my been really happy with what I’ve name up against those fellows. been bowling. I’ve been able to It’s pretty amazing. I’ve tried in create some chances which have the past not to look too far ahead. been really positive. I’m very But I’m pretty excited about happy the way they’re coming this... just the thought of playing out. Some days the wheel doesn’t 100 Test matches for Australia is turn around and you don’t have very humbling.” much luck in the middle. I’m Lyon could reach another big very happy how they’re coming milestone in Brisbane, with four out of my hand, I’m very confi - wickets needed to raise his 400th dent,” he said. in Tests. Born and raised in “I’m very excited to get to the Young, a dusty country town in Gabba where there’s a bit more New South Wales state, Austral- bounce than the MCG and SCG, ia’s most prolifi c off -spinner has defi nitely SCG anyway. I’m very come a long way since he left his excited about that. Knowing job as a groundsman at Adelaide that if I keep doing my job with Oval and joined the Test squad the Australian cricket team the for the 2011 tour of Sri Lanka. luck will keep changing here and In Australia’s record books, there. I’ve just got to stay patient only leg-spinner Shane Warne and see how we go,” Lyon said. (708 wickets) and fast bowler “This Test series against India Glenn McGrath (563) have more has been amazing. The way we Test dismissals. With the series won in Adelaide, the way India locked at 1-1 following the draw won, and then a draw – it’s go- in Sydney, Lyon will hope to help ing up and down, back and forth bowl Australia to victory at the that’s the beauty of Test cricket Gabba and win back the Border- and I’ve been grateful to have Gavaskar trophy contested by played in some amazing Test the nations. matches,” he concluded. Sri Lanka players train in Galle yesterday, on the eve of the first Test against England.

Reuters against England. Batsman Dhananjaya de tions. That said, we shouldn’t take it and India we will exploit pace as a tactic Galle, Sri Lanka Silva and fast bowler Kasun Rajitha were lightly. They’ve prepared well, and I’ve in these conditions, whether it is reverse both ruled out against England after suf- seen how well they’ve prepared.” swing or a more hostile spell of bowling. fering injuries in South Africa. It can be very eff ective. With the weather xperienced Sri Lanka batsman England blanked the hosts 3-0 in the ENGLAND STILL UNDECIDED around, seam might play a bigger part Angelo Mathews, who missed Test series on their last trip to Sri Lanka ON BOWLING LINE-UP than has been spoken about previously.” their recent trip to South Africa in 2018 but have key personnel missing Wet weather and the potential for a more Sri Lanka battled against genuine pace due to a hamstring injury, has re- from that touring party currently. While seamer friendly wicket means England on their recent tour of South Africa with turnedE to the Test side for the two-match they have not brought all-rounder Ben are in no rush to name their bowling at- two heavy Test defeats, though those home series against England starting Stokes and leg-spinner Adil Rashid, off - tack for the fi rst Test, captain Joe Root were on wickets that had plenty of seam today. The 33-year-old former captain spinner Moeen Ali will also be missing at said. Less than 24 hours before the start movement and bounce. England are still was named in Sri Lanka’s 22-man squad least the fi rst match after testing positive of the two-match series, Root said they in contention for a place in the fi nal of for the series, which was postponed in on arrival and having to isolate away from were still undecided on who will play, and the ICC’s Test Championship at Lords in March after England returned home due his teammates. suggested seam could play a bigger role June, but will likely have to win this series to the Covid-19 pandemic and will now Karunaratne felt his team were clear on what is traditionally a pitch that takes as well as their four-game tour of India to be played in Galle without fans. favourites this time and said they would plenty of turn. get there. Sri Lanka suff ered a spate of injuries not commit the mistakes they made last “There has been quite a lot of rain over “We have to look at what is right in during their two heavy defeats in South time. “We have a clear advantage against the last few days so we want to make sure front of us, look at this fi rst game and get Africa and Dimuth Karunaratne’s side this team, because they’ve got a few new we are clear on the starting 11, and make a result,” Root said. “It is a cliché, but one will also welcome back experienced players,” Karunaratne told reporters. sure we have the best tools for these con- step at a time. It is exciting that there is batsman Dinesh Chandimal and pace- “The players in the current squad don’t ditions and the surface,” Root said. still an opportunity for us to get to the men Suranga Lakmal and Lahiru Kumara have much experience in these condi- “Throughout the Test tours to Sri Lanka Test Championship fi nal though.”

ENGLAND’S MOEEN INFECTED WITH NEW UK STRAIN OF VIRUS Colombo: England’s Moeen Ali is cricket team, which arrived on a char- is one of three spinners, including Dom has been called off . UAE won Friday’s infected with the new UK variant of the tered aircraft earlier this month to play Bess and Leach, in the main squad. Sri opening encounter without vice-captain coronavirus, Sri Lankan authorities said two Test matches, the first of which will Lanka has seen a surge in virus cases Chirag Suri and uncapped left-arm spin- yesterday, after the cricketer tested begin today. Moeen’s initial 10-day quar- since October, with the total number of ner Aryan Lakra who both tested positive positive for Covid-19 on his arrival in the antine was extended on Tuesday after he infections passing 50,000 yesterday. The for coronavirus. country 10 days ago. experienced mild symptoms and fatigue. number of deaths has increased to 244 Sunday’s second game was pushed Deputy Chief Epidemiologist Heman- All-rounder Chris Woakes admitted from just 13 at the start of October. back to January 16 after another player tha Herath told reporters in Colombo that chances of him playing the first tested positive before Tuesday’s encoun- that the 33-year-old England all-rounder game remain “quite slim” after being a NO NEW COVID CASES BUT UAE ter was also suspended following four was Sri Lanka’s first case of the UK strain, close contact of Moeen and isolating for CALLS OFF ODI AGAINST IRELAND more positive tests among the home which is believed to be more transmis- seven days. Moeen and Woakes are part The one-day international between players. sible. The health ministry said extra pre- of an 18-man England squad, with seven United Arab Emirates and Ireland, Following the UAE series, Ireland will cautions were ordered to ensure Moeen additional reserve players, in Sri Lanka to which was due to take place today, was remain in the country to play three ODIs did not spread the new variant in the resume the Test series they abandoned postponed by the UAE cricket board against Afghanistan with the first of country — which is battling an upsurge in March when the virus was declared a yesterday even though there have been those scheduled for January 21. Corona- in infections — but did not elaborate on global pandemic. no more cases of Covid-19 amongst the virus cases have spiked in the UAE, with what they were. Moeen, who was England’s joint high- players. the World Health Organisation reporting A ban on flights and passengers from est wicket-taker alongside Jack Leach in This is the third time that one of just around 3,000 new cases every day Britain was not applied to the England their 3-0 series win in Sri Lanka in 2018, the matches in the four-match series since Friday. Nathan Lyon could reach another big milestone in Brisbane, with the off -spinner needing four wickets to reach 400 in Tests. (AFP)

BOTTOMLINE FOCUS Bumrah an injury doubt as India Langer bats for under-fi re Paine, Smith Reuters but Smith said he was just marking centre as fast bowlers rested from training he would normally do if he was batting. Melbourne Reuters Jadeja already confi rmed to miss hant Sharma (side strain) and Langer refuted any suggestion Smith was Melbourne the series fi nale with a thumb in- Umesh Yadav (calf) out of the seeking an advantage. “Absolute load of jury and batsman Hanuma Vihari series, Bumrah’s absence would ustralia coach Justin Langer has rubbish. If anyone knows Steve Smith, he’s a almost certain to be scratched mean calling up either one-test backed Tim Paine’s leadership and bit quirky and we’ve all laughed about it for ndia’s fast bowlers were due to a hamstring strain. paceman Shardul Thakur or giv- described media criticism of Steve the past couple of years,” he said. rested from training yes- Spinner Ravichandran Ash- ing left-armer T. Natarajan an Smith as “rubbish” after the bats- “Anyone who suggests for one millisec- terday ahead of the fourth win, who batted through the unlikely test debut. manA faced accusations of gamesmanship in ond he was trying to do something unto- Test against Australia amid entire fi nal session in Sydney Two-test Mohamed Siraj, who the wake of the third test against India. ward, they are way out of line. Give me a Ireports pace spearhead Jasprit to help India save the match, is bowled in Sydney with Bumrah Skipper Paine has been under fi re from break.” Bumrah has been ruled out of the also nursing a sore back. An In- and debutant Navdeep Saini, former players and pundits for abusive “He had a frustrating day. We’ve got to The series is level at 1-1 heading into the decider in Brisbane. dia team spokesman declined to could end up the most experi- sledging of Ravichandran Ashwin as the In- cut him some slack, surely. (He’s an) out- fi nal test in Brisbane tomorrow. Langer said Indian media, citing unnamed comment on the team’s injuries, enced member of a very raw In- dia spinner batted on the tense fi nal day of standing leader and will continue to be for opening batsman David Warner, who made team sources, said Bumrah would or Bumrah’s availability for se- dia pace attack at the Gabba, tra- the draw at the Sydney Cricket Ground. some time to come yet... He has my 100% fi ve and 13 in Sydney and was hampered by not be selected for the Test, lection, but confi rmed the pace- ditionally a fast bowler’s paradise Langer said Paine, who apologised for his support.” his groin injury, would be fi t to play at the which starts tomorrow, after suf- man did not take part in training for its speed and bounce. conduct on Tuesday, had fallen short of the Smith has been under scrutiny after video Gabba. However, rookie opener Will Pu- fering an apparent abdominal at the Gabba yesterday along India will also have to de- team’s standards in Sydney but had barely footage from the stump camera in Sydney covski remained a doubt after injuring his strain in the draw in Sydney. with the squad’s few remaining cide how to replace Vihari, and put a “hair out of place” in nearly three years showed him dragging his boot across the shoulder in the fi eld in Sydney. “We’re really Bumrah’s omission would be a fast bowlers. whether wicketkeeper Rishabh leading the team. “He has been outstanding batting crease as Australia tried to bowl In- hopeful he’ll get up, if he doesn’t the obvi- huge blow for Ajinkya Rahane’s With seasoned quicks Mo- Pant will be fi t enough to take his as the Australian captain in everything he dia out on day fi ve. Former players accused ous thing will be Marcus Harris will come in side, with all-rounder Ravindra hamed Shami (broken arm), Is- place behind the stumps. does,” Langer told reporters yesterday. him of trying to erase Rishabh Pant’s guard to open,” said Langer. Gulf Times Thursday, January 14, 2021 3 SPORT

TENNIS FORMULA 1 Australian Grand Prix postponed over Sabalenka clinches quarantine: minister

Reuters “In those circumstances... Bengaluru, India when you’ve got the combina- tion of that, the number of re- turning Australians... in our third straight title ormula One postponed view that made it better to have a the Australian Grand Prix Grand Prix later in the year if that from March to Novem- was possible. ‘I am really proud of the fact that I was fighting no matter what’ ber because it would not “One of the beauties of buy- haveF been possible for hundreds ing yourself 10 months is that I Reuters of team staff to quarantine for suspect things will look diff erent Abu Dhabi Aussie De Minaur warms up for home 14 days upon their arrival, the in November to how they look in sports minister of Victoria state January.” slam with Antalya title said yesterday. Australian Grand Prix Corp elarusian Aryna The Melbourne race is normal- chief executive Andrew Westa- Sabalenka made a Australian Alex de Minaur next month’s Australian Open. ly the season-opener but was giv- cott said preparations for For- strong start to her 2021 warmed up for his home Grand The 21-year-old missed last en a new date of Nov 21 in changes mula One race would have been season with a comfort- Slam with an ATP title yester- year’s Australian Open due to announced to the 2021 schedule aff ected if it went ahead in ableB 6-2, 6-2 victory over Ve- day, winning the Antalya Open an abdominal strain. “It was a on Tuesday amid the Covid-19 March, with team staff spending ronika Kudermetova of Russia when fellow finalist Alexander bittersweet moment last year crisis. The season will now start most of their time in hotel rooms. to clinch the WTA 500 event in Bublik retired with an ankle so hopefully a year later I can in Bahrain on March 28. “When you look at the ar- Abu Dhabi yesterday and extend injury after just seven minutes’ come back stronger and have The Australian Open tennis rangements of setting up very big her winning streak to 15 match- play. De Minaur, his country’s a great Aussie summer,” he Grand Slam begins in Melbourne businesses... and the logistics es. highest-ranked player at 23rd, said. “I am really looking for- next month and Victoria’s sports and challenges they face coming After fi nishing 2020 with tro- was 2-0 up in the first set ward to going back home and minister, Martin Pakula said it into a new season, it wasn’t pos- phies at Ostrava and Linz, the when the Kazakh pulled out. (to) play in front of the home was easier for that sport to deal sible to have them operate in a strongly built Sabalenka started De Minaur said victory at the crowd, that’s for sure.” Bublik with the quarantine rules. strict quarantine arrangement,” her new campaign in the same Turkish ATP 250 tournament — had twisted his right leg during “Tennis has been able to do Westacott said. vein in Abu Dhabi and will rise his fourth main-tour title — was Tuesday’s semi-final victory that... but it’s not something that Pakula said he hoped that the three spots to a career-best a massive boost going into over France’s Jeremy Chardy. has been possible for Formula race could go back to its tradi- world number seven when the One,” Pakula told reporters. tional slot in 2022. WTA rankings are updated on Korda continues progress with Monday. maiden ATP fi nal spot at Delray “I am really proud of the fact SPOTLIGHT that I was fi ghting no matter what,” the 22-year-old told re- American Sebastian Ko- soon thanks to his exploits at porters. rda, who hit the headlines by the ATP 250 event in Florida, “Some matches I did not feel reaching the fourth round of where he will face fourth seed Team GB ‘hugely my serve, some matches back- In this September 3, 2020, picture, Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus serves the French Open in October, Hubert Hurkacz in the final. hand, forehand. But I was like the ball against compatriot Victoria Azarenka (not pictured) at the US has booked a spot in his first “For me the biggest thing was ‘just keep fi ghting’. That’s why Open at Flushing Meadows in New York. (USA TODAY Sports) ATP Tour final after beating kind of getting my consistency confi dent’ Tokyo I am really proud of and happy Britain’s Cameron Norrie 6-3, up,” said Korda, whose sisters with this title.” With her powerful ground- improving your game, you will 7-5 in the Delray Beach Open Nelly and Jessica play on the It was the ninth title overall strokes and all-round game, start losing.” semi-finals. LPGA Tour, the elite women’s Games will go ahead for the fourth-seeded Sabalen- Sabalenka will be considered a Sabalenka broke her oppo- Korda, the son of former world golf circuit. ka, who now heads to Melbourne dark horse at the Feb. 8-21 Grand nent’s serve six times during No 2 and 1998 Australian “Before I’d kind of missed the Reuters “incredibly comprehensive” for the fi rst Grand Slam of the Slam at Melbourne Park. yesterday’s fi nal and was par- Open champion Petr, made his balls that I don’t miss now. So London, United Kingdom health and safety protocols to year at the Australian Open next “I will keep improving my ticularly pleased with her return Grand Slam debut at the US it’s super big for me to be play- protect athletes. month. game, keep working on some game during the tournament. Open as a wildcard last year. ing these matches and kind of A weekend survey by Japanese She will now head to Mel- things,” Sabalenka said. “My biggest dream is to win a The 20-year-old was ranked just getting a feel for my body, eam GB Chef de Mis- public broadcaster NHK showed bourne for a mandatory 14-day “It’s not about just staying Grand Slam. I think we all have 213th before Roland Garros growing into my body and kind sion Mark England said most locals want to cancel or quarantine before the warmup in shape, there’s always some- the same dream, so nothing re- but has climbed to 119th and is of building myself out both ten- yesterday he was confi - postpone the Games. events start from Jan. 31 ahead thing to work on and to improve. ally special,” Sabalenka said on track to break the top 100 nis wise and physically.” dent the Tokyo Olympics Takeshi Niinami, CEO of bever- of the Australian Open. As soon as you stop working on with a smile. Twould go ahead this year even if age giant Suntory Holdings and an they would be diff erent due to economic adviser to Prime Minis- the Covid-19 pandemic. ter Yoshihide Suga, told Reuters he FOCUS “We are hugely confi dent of was unsure whether the Olympics the Games going ahead in the could be held as planned. summer,” he told Reuters after England said he based his con- announcing the selection of four fi dence on much more than just Jones defi es rare physical condition to qualify for AO shooting competitors. “a vibe”. “We certainly wouldn’t be an- “The prime minister of Ja- Reuters geries in her life already. nouncing athletes if that wasn’t pan overnight has commented Dubai “I’ve never been before and the case.” that the Games will go ahead, I’m sure it’s going to be an amaz- The Olympics, delayed from the IOC (International Olympic ing experience. I guess any draw last year due to the new corona- Committee) are very confi dent in ritain’s Francesca Jones, for me would be a fascinating virus, are scheduled for July 23 to their planning for the Games to who suff ers from a one. I look forward to any match Aug 8 but Japan has expanded a go ahead,” he said. rare genetic condition, I’ll play, whether it’ll be Serena state of emergency in the Tokyo “There is nothing that we are reached her maiden Williams or another qualifi er.” area with cases of Covid-19 ris- hearing today that suggests the GrandB Slam main draw yes- Jones will now board a char- ing steadily. Games won’t go ahead. We are terday when she beat China’s tered fl ight to Melbourne where England, who sits on an In- full steam ahead, planning to Lu Jiajing in the fi nal round of the players will serve a man- ternational Olympic Committee embark on Japan from the middle Australian Open qualifying in datory 14-day quarantine be- (IOC) working group, said the of July and that is our focus of at- Dubai. fore warm-up events start on Games would look diff erent with tention.” Jones suff ers from ectrodac- January 31 before the Australian tyly ectodermal dysplasia syn- Open. drome, a condition which meant Also joining the Briton on the she was born with three fi ngers fl ight will be Italy’s former world Japan presses on with Olympics and a thumb on each hand, three number fi ve Sara Errani, who toes on her right foot and four was a Roland Garros runner-up, preparations despite surging cases toes on her left. a US Open semi-fi nalist and an The 20-year-old was told by Australian Open quarter-fi nalist Japan’s government is continuing with preparations to hold the doctors as a child that she would in 2012 before slipping down the Tokyo Olympics this summer as planned, following a postpone- not be able to pursue a profes- Francesca Jones in action during rankings. ment because of the coronavirus pandemic, chief cabinet secre- sional tennis career due to her the Australian Open women’s The 33-year-old, currently tary Katsunobu Kato said yesterday. Japan has repeatedly insisted physical disadvantages, which qualifiers in Dubai. (Tennis Australia) ranked 131, booked her spot it will hold the Games despite opinion polls showing a majority Jones says spurred her on to for the Feb. 8-21 Grand Slam at of respondents want them postponed again or cancelled. “Right prove them wrong. Melbourne Park with a 3-6, 6-2, now we’re working as one with everybody involved in organis- The world number 241, who tion, has since overcome the beat China’s Lu 6-0, 6-1 to book ify and really looking forward 6-4 win over Croatian Ana Kon- ing the Games to host them successfully,” Kato told a regular fi nds balance to be the biggest odds and added a new chapter her ticket for Melbourne. to getting out to Australia,” said juh in the fi nal round of qualify- news conference. The comments come as local media reported shortcoming due to her condi- to her story yesterday when she “I’m just super happy to qual- Jones, who has had over 10 sur- ing. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and US philanthropist Bill Gates had spoken about the Olympic Games on Tuesday in a call arranged by Suntory Holdings Ltd CEO Takeshi Niinami. Japan GOLF is grappling with a third wave of the coronavirus, with infections hovering at a record-high. The Olympic Games were originally due to take place in 2020. Smith, PGA champ Morikawa excited for Masters fans Grosjean fi nally free of bandages aft er AFP ing Park in San Francisco and 69-69 over the legendary par- Bahrain fi reball Los Angeles, United States hoped the Masters plans might 72 layout, and is excited about signal a gradual return for fans his game with an Augusta return French driver Romain Grosjean showed his hands finally free across all PGA Tour events. in three months. of bandages on Tuesday, six weeks after he clambered from istory-making Masters “It’s obviously encourag- “My short game and my the wreckage of his car in an horrific fireball accident at the runner-up Cameron ing,” he said. “I think all these putting is in a really good spot,” Bahrain Grand Prix. The 34-year-old, who has now left Formula Smith of Australia and tournaments are going to start he said. “I feel like I can make the One, suffered burns to both hands when his Haas car split in 2020 PGA Champion- bringing fans back, whether putts when I need to make the two and erupted in flames after piercing a metal crash barrier. Hship winner Collin Morikawa are it’s limited capacity or a certain putts. I just need to hit it closer, He has been recovering at home in Switzerland since leaving excited to see Augusta Nation- amount per day. basically. hospital three days after the accident, missing the last two al’s plans for limited spectators “We’re always going to follow “If I can get my longer stuff , races of 2020. “Dressing fully off and Petrus happy,” he said at the major showdown in three the right rules. PGA Tour has and especially my irons, into a on Twitter above a picture of him cradling the family pet cat months time. built a system, and I’m sure the good spot, I’ll be able to compete and another close up of his hands, the left looking purple and Augusta National chair- Masters have built a system right every week.” raw. The father of three had the dressings on his right hand man Fred Ridley announced now with everyone else to make Morikawa, whose father’s removed last month. the club’s plan to allow a lim- sure this doesn’t get out of hand. family is from Hawaii, seeks ited number of fans to attend “We still need to watch our- his fourth career PGA title af- the 85th Masters on April 8-11 selves on what we do and where ter the 2019 Barracuda Cham- LA-area Genesis Invitational to be with Covid-19 safety measures we’re going to be going, but for pionship, the PGA and last contested without fans in place. the most part, slowly to start July’s Workday Charity Open “We miss the fans out here seeing fans, it’s going to be really one-off event, played on the As expected, the natural grass amphitheatre that towers over every week,” Smith said Tues- exciting.” same course as the Memorial the 18th green at Riviera Country Club will be void of paying day. “I feel as though the atmos- Smith, who defends his ti- the week before as a Covid-19 customers when the 2021 Genesis Invitational is contested Feb- phere around there was obvi- tle at the PGA Sony Open in replacement event. ruary 18-21 at Pacific Palisades, California. The event, which was ously down this year. Hawaii starting today, shared “Having family out here, my won by Australia’s Adam Scott in 2020, was one of the last to be “It’s such a unique place in second last November at the entire dad’s side, it makes things played before the PGA Tour paused at the start of the Covid-19 that you can hear everything virus-postponed Masters with a little more special and makes it pandemic last spring. The tournament, operated by the char- that’s going on throughout South Korea’s Im Sung-jae, fi ve feel more like home even though ity foundation of 15-time major winner Tiger Woods, instead whole course. I think if we get a strokes behind US winner Dus- I never lived here,” Morikawa will offer “games, activities and more,” to keep viewers of the few out there, it will defi nitely tin Johnson. said. “It’s all part of it. Any time broadcast engaged in the action. Details of the online enhance- make a diff erence.” The 27-year-old from Bris- you have a tie to location or a ments will be revealed on the Genesis Invitational website at Collin Morikawa, a 23-year- bane became the fi rst player golf course, it just makes you Cameron Smith of Australia plays his shot from the 11th tee during a later date. The tournament also is offering an online, virtual old American, captured his fi rst in Masters history with four want to kind of win at that loca- the final round of the Sentry Tournament Of Champions in Kapalua, family village for viewers under 12. major title last August at Hard- rounds in the 60s, going 67-68- tion a little more.” Hawaii, on Sunday. (AFP) Gulf Times 4 Thursday, January 14, 2021 SPORT

NFL SPOTLIGHT Seahawks extend GM Schneider, fi re Weather could play off ensive coordinator

Reuters the team announced that Sch- New York neider, the architect of two Su- per Bowl teams, signed a con- tract extension to remain on n the same day they the job for six more years. The role in Ravens-Bills moved to solidify club did not announce fi nan- their future by sign- cial terms for Schneider, who ing general man- is in his 11th season in the role. ‘That definitely would be my first agerO John Schneider to a long Speculation had been build- contract extension, the Seat- ing that teams with GM open- time playing football in the tle Seahawks also announced ings, including the Detroit Tuesday they fi red off ensive Lions, would pursue him. His snow – Saturday, if it does (snow)’ coordinator Brian Schotten- previous contract would have showdown heimer. expired after the 2022 draft. The Seahawks struggled on “I am pleased to announce off ense through the second that we have extended the con- half of the season, then lost tract of general manager John 30-20 to the visiting Los An- Schneider through the 2027 geles Rams last weekend in a draft,” team chairperson Jody wild-card playoff game. Allen said in a news release The team announced on Tuesday. “For the last decade, Twitter, “Citing philosophi- John and head coach Pete Car- cal diff erences, we have parted roll have formed a tremendous ways” with Schottenheimer, partnership and the Seahawks who had come under fi re amid have established a success- the late-season slump. ful, unique, and truly winning Just a day earlier, head coach culture respected throughout Pete Carroll said on his radio sports. I know we are all excit- show when asked whether ed to see that continue.” Schottenheimer would be back Carroll is signed through the next season said, “We scored 2025 season. more points than any team in Schneider and Carroll have the history of the franchise,” been together since 2010. In which didn’t sound like a that time, the Seahawks have change was in the works, and reached the postseason nine told the media, “I’m counting times, including eight of the on everybody coming back.” past nine seasons. They have The club-record 459 points won fi ve NFC West titles, two can be misleading, since the NFC championships and Super team averaged 35.9 points in Bowl XLVIII on Feb. 2, 2014. the fi rst eight games, then The Seahawks have nine managed just 21.5 points a straight winning seasons – the game in the fi nal eight. Seattle longest mark in the NFL. They was held to 20 or fewer points fi nished 2020 with a 12-4 mark in four of the last six games, and won the NFC West. including the playoff defeat. Before joining the Seahawks, Schottenheimer spent three Schneider, 49, held a variety of seasons as Seattle’s off ensive NFL jobs. He had two stretches coordinator, following the with the Green Bay Packers, much-maligned Darrell Bev- including serving as director ell, who was fi red following the of football operations in 2008 2017 season. Earlier in the day, and ’09.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson scores a touchdown against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter in a AFC Wild Card playoff game at Nissan Stadium in Bears DC to retire, but head coach Nashville, Tennessee, USA, on January 10, 2021. (USA TODAY Sports) and GM to stay Reuters pery terrain when he attempts many anticipated, setting fran- that keep defensive coordina- dogs. Last weekend, they shut Boston to lead the Ravens past Josh Al- chise records with 4,544 yards tors up at night,” Bills defense down Tennessee 2,000-yard The Chicago Bears report- Pagano was the Indianapolis len and the Bills. Buff alo edged and 37 touchdown passes. He coordinator Leslie Frazier said, rusher Derrick Henry (40 yards edly are getting one off -field Colts’ head coach from 2012- the Indianapolis Colts 27-24 last added 421 yards and eight scores “when you see that, when guys on 18 carries) and they have a change but aren’t engaging in 17, compiling a 53-43 regular- altimore Ravens quar- weekend in the wild-card round on the ground. He was on his are in position and they aren’t deeper recent history of playing a major overhaul. season record and a 3-3 play- terback Lamar Jackson while the Ravens ousted the game against the Colts, com- able to make that play because in big games than Buff alo does. Defensive coordinator Chuck off mark. He led the Colts to heard mention of snow Tennessee Titans 20-13. pleting 26 of 35 passes for 324 that player is so special on the “We’ve got a team full of Pagano is retiring, but head the AFC Championship Game in the forecast for Sat- The playoff victory was the yards and two touchdowns. Al- other side. tough players who are going to coach Matt Nagy and gen- after the 2014 season. urdayB in Buff alo and he immedi- fi rst for the Bills since Hall of len also ran for 54 yards and one “Lamar has done that in his go to battle and who are going to eral manager Ryan Pace will He missed much of the 2012 ately became fearful of a playing Famers Jim Kelly and Thurman score on 11 carries. short NFL career to the point scratch and claw for each other,” remain in their jobs, multiple season while undergoing surface that may cause tough Thomas engineered a 37-22 win Jackson, also part of the 2018 where he’s been an MVP already. Baltimore cornerback Marcus media outlets reported Tues- treatment for leukemia. sledding for his speedy feet. over the Miami Dolphins in a draft class, was the NFL’s Most He’s capable of making you look Peters said. “It’s an organisa- day night. Nagy and Pace came under Jackson might have to cope wild-card matchup on Dec. 30, Valuable Player in 2019. This bad at times. You just gotta be tional DNA built for January, The Bears, who went 8-8 in scrutiny as the Bears slumped with such conditions when the 1995. season, he passed for 2,757 yards able to keep working and hope- which is exactly why the Ravens the regular season, were elim- to the end of the 2020 season. fi fth-seeded Ravens battle the Allen made it clear that the and 26 touchdowns and rushed fully be able to corral him at are the playoff team no one is ex- inated from the playoff s with Chicago started 5-1 but lost its second-seeded Buff alo Bills in Bills didn’t arrive just to win one for 1,005 yards and seven scores. some point.” cited to see.” a 21-9 road loss to the New next six games. A three-game an AFC divisional matchup on game and head into the off season He is the fi rst quarterback in The Bills were able to lasso Peters (back) and linebacker Orleans Saints on Sunday. winning streak followed, but Saturday night in Orchard Park, satisfi ed. NFL history to top 1,000 rushing Jackson a few times in last sea- Matthew Judon (illness) didn’t Pagano, 60, headed the the Bears were blown out NY. Early forecasts call for a 40 “It doesn’t matter what we yards in consecutive seasons. son’s meeting at Buff alo. He participate in Baltimore’s walk- Chicago defense the past two by the Green Bay Packers in percent chance of snow and up did – it’s back to 0-0,” Allen said. Jackson connected on 17 of 24 managed just 40 yards on 11 through on Tuesday. Among the seasons. The Bears ranked the regular-season finale and to an inch of accumulation. “They’re 0-0 and they’re com- passes for 179 yards and one in- rushes with a long of 16 yards, Buff alo players who were limited 11th in total defense in 2020 wound up sneaking into the “That defi nitely would be ing into our house. We got an- terception against the Titans. He but Baltimore won the game in practice were receivers Stefon after placing eighth in that postseason thanks to other my fi rst time playing football in other home game, and we have did his real damage with his legs, 24-17 as Jackson threw for three Diggs (oblique) and Cole Beasley category in 2019. Chicago results. Nagy, 42, was selected the snow – Saturday, if it does to prepare and get ready to go.” rushing for 136 yards and one touchdowns while accumulating (knee) and defensive tackle Ed yielded 23.1 points per game as the NFL Coach of the Year (snow),” said Jackson, a native The overwhelming belief is touchdown on 16 carries. 145 passing yards. Allen passed Oliver (ankle). this season, which ranked 14th after his first season on the of Pompano Beach, Fla.. “Hope- that this encounter will be de- The touchdown came on a for 146 yards and a score. The Bills also placed running in the NFL, after the club was job, when he led the 2018 fully, it doesn’t.” cided by the quarterbacks. 48-yard scamper after Jackson While the Bills are slight fa- back Zack Moss (ankle) on in- fourth in 2019, when it yielded Bears to a 12-4 mark. Jackson is more interested in Allen, in his third season, had dropped back to pass. vourites, the Ravens certainly jured reserve, leaving Devin Sin- 18.6 points per game. (Reuters) using his wheels on non-slip- the breakthrough campaign “Those are the type of plays don’t view themselves as under- gletary as the main ball carrier.

FOCUS ‘Gloves off ’ for Packers with Rams eyeing upset Reuters fense,” LaFleur said of the Rams, “It’s pretty crazy that we’re touchdowns and 12 intercep- New York calling Donald a “once in a life- getting an opportunity to play tions. time player.” against one another – really, our Rodgers’ job has been easier Packers All-Pro center Corey teams our getting to play each this season with Davante Adams riends turn foe if only Linsley draws the Donald as- other in the divisional round. healthy. Adams will draw a lot for a few hours Satur- signment as Green Bay attempts That’s going to be the most im- of one-on-one coverage from day when the Green Bay to prevent Rodgers from being portant thing, is the Rams versus Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey, Packers welcome the Los trampled by a Rams defense that the Packers and we’ll see if we an aggressive and physical coun- AngelesF Rams in an NFC divi- sacked Wilson fi ve times last can go and get after Matt a little terpart. sional playoff game at Lambeau week. Donald left little doubt he bit. It’ll be fun.” LaFleur said the matchup Field. will play through his injury. He After Lambeau Field was should be entertaining but is Two years and fi ve days after tied for second in the NFL with mostly empty during the regular confi dent in Adams, a player he being hired as head coach of the 13.5 sacks in the regular season. season, the Packers are allowing called “one of the best route- Packers, Matt LaFleur led his Kupp plans to play, too, but fans in the stadium – up to 6,000 runners of all-time.” team and MVP favourite Aaron could be limited and more – on Saturday afternoon. Adams is the fi rst player in Rodgers onto the practice fi eld broadly impacted by who is Champions of the North divi- NFL history to have at least 100 to accelerate preparation for an throwing the ball for the Rams. sion, the Packers were idle last receptions with 18 receiving unexpected guest. Wolford was not long for the week after securing the top seed touchdowns in a season, as he Due to Jared Goff ’s thumb in- wild-card win. He got hurt and in the NFC with a 13-3 record. fi nished with 115 receptions and jury, the Rams started undrafted was transported to the hospi- Rodgers lost his previous meet- 18 touchdowns in just 14 games rookie John Wolford at Seat- tal for tests on his neck, leav- ing with Goff and the Rams in this fall. tle last week, but they beat the ing Goff to pilot the Rams in the 2018 – 29-27 at Los Angeles – in During fi lm study, the Packers NFC West champion Seahawks second half. Coach Sean McVay a duel of Cal quarterback prod- have seen a lot of cover-2 looks by battering quarterback Russell said both players are trending in ucts. Rodgers was sacked twice from the Rams, and Rodgers said Wilson and avoiding mistakes. the right direction, but he won’t by Donald in that contest. he might not see Ramsey over The toll was steep for the likely name a starter until later in Green Bay has won six con- Adams as speculated. Rams, who returned to Los An- the week. secutive games since a Nov. 22 That’s just another exhibit, geles with no obvious choice at Donald, Kupp and Wolford all overtime loss to the Indianapolis Adams said, of how Rodgers quarterback for the Green Bay sat out the team’s light workout Colts. makes his life easier on game day game. Perhaps of greater impor- Tuesday. Rodgers was consistently – a knack for simplifying every- tance, defensive tackle Aaron LaFleur likely has a good idea great in 2020, leading the NFL thing with relentless focus. Donald (ribs) and leading wide of what’s coming. He said Tues- Green Bay Packers head coach of Matt LaFleur. with 48 touchdowns, a 70.7 “You can kind of see a weight receiver Cooper Kupp (knee) day the Packers have to “prepare percent completion rate, a 121.5 off a guy’s shoulders in the hud- were injured in the team’s fi rst for both” Goff and Wolford and from 2010-13, and when McVay ly. I don’t know how much I’ll will be off on Saturday.” passer rating, a league-tying- dle just hearing that from Aar- playoff triumph since losing to wouldn’t put a surprise or two became a head coach at age 30 in talk to him this week,” LaFleur McVay said, “He’s a great low fi ve interceptions and a loud on,” Adams said. “I think that’s the New England Patriots in Su- past his good friend McVay. 2017, he hired LaFleur as off en- said. “That’s one of my clos- coach. He’s a great friend of and clear statement that he’s how you wind up being MVP 16 per Bowl LIII. The coaches assistants with sive coordinator in Los Angeles. est friends in life. He’s like a mine. You’re so happy to see that not done at age 37. He is 10-8 seasons in, fi nding something in “This is a legit, real-deal de- the Washington Football Team “We still talk pretty regular- brother to me ... but the gloves success. all-time in the playoff s with 40 your game to get better.” Gulf Times Thursday, January 14, 2021 5 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Two-year sentence for Austrian Bruins to retire jersey number of pioneer O’Ree cyclist Denifl over doping Austrian cyclist Stefan Denifl sentences to those involved in AFP starting Saturday noting the anni- was sentenced to two years in the Aderlass operation. New York versary of O’Ree’s accomplishment, prison yesterday for his part in Ex-skier Johannes Duerr, which this year falls on Martin Luther the international Aderlass dop- whose doping confessions King Jr. Day, a US holiday in tribute to ing ring which was uncovered in a documentary aired by illie O’Ree, who became the late black civil rights leader. in 2019. German broadcaster ARD the National Hockey The decal, featuring an image of Andreas Stutter, vice-president helped trigger the probes into League’s fi rst black O’Ree wearing and the words “Cel- of Innsbruck regional court, Aderlass, was given a 15-month player 63 years ago ebrating Equality”, will also be worn confirmed the sentence for suspended sentence for doping Wwith the Boston Bruins, will have his throughout February, celebrated in “aggravated sports fraud” to in January 2020. number 22 jersey retired by the club the US as Black History Month. AFP. Skiers Max Hauke and Dominik next month. “Throughout the history of the He said that both defence and Baldauf and cyclist Georg Prei- The Bruins announced yesterday NHL, there have been very few in- prosecutors would have three dler have also received prison O’Ree will become the 12th player to dividuals that have had such a pro- days to appeal the verdict. sentences. have his number retired by the team found impact on the league and its Sixteen months of the sentence The investigation burst into the in a February 18 ceremony ahead of culture than Willie O’Ree,” Bruins will be suspended. open in February 2019 when Boston’s home game against New chief executive Charlie Jacobs said. Denifl, 33, had admitted doping Austrian police mounted a Jersey. “Willie became the ultimate am- in previous court hearings in spectacular raid on the Nordic “I’m thrilled,” O’Ree said. “Over- bassador for improving diversity and February 2020 but denied World skiing Championships in whelmed.” inclusion within the game of hockey. the charges of fraud, insisting Austria’s Tyrol province. O’Ree, an 85-year-old Canadian The entire hockey world is forever he had fulfilled all his contracts. Five athletes were arrested at who was inducted into the Hockey indebted to Willie for all that he has However, the court found that the scene. Hall of Fame in 2018, broke the NHL done, and continues to do, for the he had eff ectively defrauded At the same time, the German colour barrier as a left wing for the sport.” his team through his use of doctor accused of mastermind- Bruins in a game at Montreal on Jan- While spectators are unlikely for doping tactics. ing the ring, Mark Schmidt, was uary 18, 1958. the O’Ree tribute game due to Cov- As well as the prison sen- arrested in the German city of “Willie’s contributions to the id-19 safety measures, the Bruins tence he was handed a fine of Erfurt. game of hockey transcend on-ice said they plan another ceremony in 349,000 euros ($424,000). He went on trial in September accomplishments and have opened tribute to O’Ree with fans when con- In 2019 Austria’s anti-doping 2020 in Munich with the ver- countless doors for players who ditions allow. agency banned Denifl from dict expected tomorrow. have come after him,” Bruins presi- O’Ree scored four goals and set up competing for four years after Prosecutors have recom- dent Cam Neely said. “He is without 10 others over 45 NHL games in the his role in the Aderlass ring mended he receive a five-and- question deserving of this honour.” 1957-58 and 1960-61 seasons with came to light. a-half year prison sentence and NHL players, who open a 2021 the Bruins despite being blind in his Austria’s courts have already be suspended from practising campaign shortened by Covid-19 on right eye due to an injury sustained In this file photo taken on June 19, 2019, Willie O’Ree arrives at the 2019 NHL Awards in Las Vegas, handed down several other medicine for five years. (AFP) Wednesday, will wear helmet decals playing junior hockey. Nevada. (AFP/GETTY IMAGES)

NBA FOCUS NBA probing video of maskless Irving Lakers ground on Marks’ statement when he Reuters New York met with reporters prior to Tuesday’s game. He answered “sure” when asked if he was ideo surfaced of confi dent Irving will return Brooklyn Nets guard to the team at some point this Kyrie Irving at a season. family birthday party Nash, a fi rst-year coach, Rockets again, sixers Vwithout a mask, and the NBA said he can’t allow himself to reportedly is investigating the get caught up in distractions. time and location of the event “Like I said, right now I with the likelihood of disci- have to focus on coaching this pline to follow. team and getting the best out An NBA offi cial reached by of them,” Nash said. “I can’t Field Level Media declined make any predictions or prog- comment. nostications about things that slip past Heat in OT Irving missed Tuesday’s are outside of this building.” game against the Denver Nug- On Thursday, the day after gets, the fourth in a row he the unruly protests in Wash- ‘I LOVE THIS CITY. I LITERALLY HAVE DONE EVERYTHING THAT I CAN’ skipped due to personal rea- ington, Nash arrived at Bar- sons. He hasn’t played since clays Center and informed AFP the insurrection at the United media he had “no idea” where Los Angeles States Capitol in Washington, Irving was or if he’d play in the D.C., last Wednesday. game that night against the The Nets are 1-2 without Philadelphia 76ers. eBron James scored 22 of his game- Irving heading into the game high 26 points in the fi rst half and versus Denver. JAMES KEEN TO AVOID the Los Angeles Lakers posted “We are aware of a video on RETURNING TO BUBBLE LIFE their second runaway victory over social media featuring Kyrie LeBron James guided the Los Lthe Houston Rockets in as many games, Irving at a family gathering,” Angeles Lakers to the NBA rolling to a 117-100 victory on Tuesday at Nets general manager Sean Championship inside a bio- Toyota Center in Houston. Marks said in a statement. secure environment in Or- The Lakers, who led by as many as 27 “We are reviewing the circum- lando last year but says just the points in their 120-102 win on Sunday, stances with both Kyrie and thought of being stuck inside matched that advantage on a Kentavious the NBA in order to determine a bubble again gives him the Caldwell-Pope 3-pointer at the 3:35 mark compliance with health and shakes. of the second quarter. safety protocols. The 2019-20 season was hit The Lakers led wire to wire while re- “Kyrie remains away from with a four-month delay due maining perfect on the road, combining the team due to personal rea- to the Covid-19 pandemic and stingy defense with blistering perimeter sons. A date of his return has was completed in October with shooting in the fi rst quarter to build a 35- yet to be fi nalised ... Kyrie will teams competing in a bubble at 14 lead entering the second. have the opportunity to ad- Walt Disney World. dress his absence when he is “Well the bubble was a ready to do so.” success from a performance RESULTS ESPN and The Athletic re- standpoint as far as our league ported Irving likely would not getting back on,” James, whose 76ers 137-134 Heat be allowed to play until next side beat Houston Rockets 117- Pacers 104-95 Warriors week, meaning his availability 100 on Tuesday, told reporters. Nets 122-116 Nuggets is doubtful for games Wednes- “I haven’t thought about Lakers 117-100 Rockets day at the New York Knicks the bubble much after I left. and Saturday against the visit- You continue to give me PTSD Utah Jazz 117-87 Cavaliers ing Orlando Magic. every time you ask me about Spurs 112-102 Thunder Tuesday’s game will be the the bubble. I started shak- Nets’ 84th game since they ing thinking about 96 straight James made 4 of 9 3-pointers and added signed Irving as a free agent in nights in that place.” eight rebounds and fi ve assists. Five other 2019. He has played in just 27 The NBA has told players Lakers joined James in double fi gures, of those contests. to remain at their residences with Anthony Davis posting 19 points, 10 Irving underwent shoulder when they are at home, and in rebounds and fi ve blocked shots in just 29 surgery last March and did not hotels when on the road, for at minutes. The starting backcourt of Dennis return for the team’s postsea- least the next two weeks as part Schroeder and Caldwell-Pope combined son games in the NBA bubble of its new health protocols. for 28 points on 11-for-18 shooting with near Orlando. The league postponed one six rebounds and four steals. He is considered healthy, but game on Sunday and three this Christian Wood paired 18 points with coach Steve Nash has indicated week due to the virus but has eight rebounds while James Harden added multiple times that Irving is said it had no plans to put the 16 points, seven rebounds, and six assists not communicating with the season on hold. The current for Houston. The Rockets continued their team. season has a reduced 72-game poor shooting from deep, fi nishing 12 of Nash declined to expand schedule. 40 on 3s while shooting just 39.2 percent overall. Harden missed 5 of 6 treys and shot 5 of 16 overall. The Lakers turned a 12-0 run into a 28-10 advantage in the fi rst quarter, get- ting 3s from Caldwell-Pope and James Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (right) shoots the ball against Houston Rockets guard John Wall during the second quarter while recording three blocks and forcing of their NBA game at Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, USA. (USA TODAY Sports) two turnovers during the rally. The Lakers entered the second quarter with a plus-8 the Houston Rockets appears beyond re- third quarter on Tuesday and Harden said 16 rebounds, fi ve steals and four assists. advantage on the glass and eight fast- pair after a second consecutive lopsided they were well short of the quality re- Danny Green tied a franchise record with break points while limiting the Rockets to defeat left him venting his frustration quired to challenge the top teams. nine 3-pointers on his way to 29 points, 6-for-21 shooting. with the team. “We’re not even close, honestly, to that and he added 10 rebounds as the Sixers The Rockets weren’t any more com- The Rockets (3-6) are second from bot- team – obviously the defending cham- snapped a three-game losing streak. petitive in the second quarter and needed tom of the Western Conference following pions – and all the other elite teams out Tyler Herro led the Heat with 34 points, a Harden buzzer-beater to cut the defi cit loss to the Lakers. They lost to the same there,” he told a news conference. “I Duncan Robinson added 26 and Gabe to 23 points at the intermission. The Lak- team 120-102 on Sunday. mean, you can tell the diff erence in these Vincent had a career-high 24. Precious ers made half of their 18 3-point attempts Several reports in the lead-up to the last two games. Achiuwa contributed 17 points and 13 re- in the fi rst half and recorded 17 assists on season said Harden was seeking a trade “We’re just not good enough – chemis- bounds, and Kelly Olynyk had 15 points. their 28 baskets. Just for good measure, from the Rockets, though the guard has try, talent-wise, just everything.” Both teams were without a number of the Lakers totalled 19 second-chance batted away the speculation. Joel Embiid scored 35 of his 45 points key players, including the Sixers’ Tobias points. “I love this city. I literally have done in the second half and overtime to lift the Harris, Seth Curry, Shake Milton and The Lakers hit their largest lead at 95- everything that I can,” said Harden. “I host Philadelphia 76ers past the Miami Matisse Thybulle and the Heat’s Jimmy 65 on a Kyle Kuzma layup at the 2:25 mark mean, this situation is crazy. It’s some- Heat 137-134. Embiid was 13 of 13 from the Butler, Bam Adebayo, Goran Dragic and of the third quarter. thing that I don’t think can be fi xed.” free-throw line, including two with 8.9 Kendrick Nunn, due to health and safety Meanwhile Harden’s relationship with The Rockets trailed by 30 points in the seconds left in overtime, to go along with protocols. Gulf Times 6 Thursday, January 14, 2021 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE FOCUS Celtic’s Dubai trip was a Man United exceeding ‘mistake’, admits chief executive

AFP expectations ahead Glasgow eltic chief executive Pe- ter Lawwell admits the Scottish champions’ decision to go to Dubai forC a warm-weather training camp was a “mistake” after 13 players were forced into self- isolation. of Liverpool test Celtic defender Christopher Jullien tested positive for Cov- id-19 after the trip, with a host Solskjaer’s move three points clear at the top after Pogba’s goal gave them a 1-0 win over Burnley of other players, Hoops boss Neil Lennon and his assistant John Reuters Kennedy deemed to be close Burley, England contacts. Although there further tests have all been negative since t is eight years since Manchester Celtic returned to Scotland last United sat at the top of the Premier Friday, it was a makeshift Celtic League at this stage of the season side which drew 1-1 against Hi- and while manager Ole Gunnar bernian on Monday. ISolskjaer is steering clear of eupho- Scotland’s First Minister ria, there is clearly a sense that he has Nicola Sturgeon had criticised turned the corner with his team. Celtic’s Dubai break, question- A 1-0 win at Burnley on Tuesday ing whether it was really “es- night, ground out in freezing tempera- sential”. tures against awkward and physical op- And although the club had ini- ponents, put United three points clear tially defended the controversial at the top of the table ahead of Sunday’s trip, Lawwell has now conceded clash with champions Liverpool at An- it was the wrong decision. fi eld. Alex Ferguson was still in charge “It has been an extremely dif- of the club when they were top after 17 fi cult few days and on refl ection, games in 2012 and in that season, his looking back and with hindsight fi nal at the club, United went on to win and looking at the outcome of the title. the trip, clearly it was a mistake Whether Solskjaer’s side are capable and for that I profoundly apolo- of such an achievement is something gise to our supporters,” Lawwell of which many remain sceptical — and told Celtic’s website. Sunday’s game should give a clue as to “We left here and the ration- their chances — but even being in the ale for the camp was very much title race is exceeding expectations. with the best intentions. Things “It’s a brilliant position to be in,” said haven’t gone the way we wanted Solskjaer. “Of course we know we’re to and the outcome is clearly going to the champions, they’ve had an very regrettable.” unbelievable three-and-a-half seasons Scotland is under a nation- so we know that’s going to be a diffi cult wide lockdown with only essen- game for us but we’re ready for it. tial travel allowed. Despite the “I think we couldn’t have asked for a restrictions, elite sports teams better time to play them, because we’re are allowed to travel for matches in good shape, in good form, we’re hun- and training. gry — that’s the big thing, these boys “If you look back over the last are hungry. They want to get better and four years, going to the camp in that’s a test again, a test of character Dubai has been extremely suc- and a test of quality,” he added. cessful,” Lawwell said. Few, if any, pundits felt United were “And the decisions we made in ready to challenge Liverpool and Man- entirely for the best interests of chester City at the top of the table at the team and the best interests of the beginning of the campaign and their the club. What we planned to do poor start to the season led many to was take them to these facilities wonder if Solskjaer was even the right again, which are world-class, man for the job. after a very hectic programme in A home defeat to Crystal Palace on beaten campaign on the road, Solsk- they can use without a signifi cant drop of the Frenchman’s strong spell of form, Solskjaer. November and December, which the opening day was followed by a 6-1 jaer’s team have fi nally found the con- off in quality. while the Serb provided the solidity to Sunday will be the biggest test though has in the past proven to be a hammering from Tottenham Hotspur in sistency needed to challenge. Scott McTominay and Brazilian Fred neutralise the home side. for a side which is improving but which great benefi t in terms of per- their next home game. A dull 0-0 draw If there is one aspect of the United have enjoyed a good spell as the defen- “I’ve always said Paul is a big, big has yet to prove they are title mate- formance after January.” with Chelsea at Old Traff ord was fol- team that should give their fans confi - sive midfi eld pairing but at Burnley, Sol- player for us. He’s a good character in rial and Pogba is relishing the prospect. Celtic trail Scottish Premier- lowed by another poor home display in dence for the second half of the season skjaer wisely opted for the more physi- the dressing room, he’s always one that “We have to keep calm, now it is the big ship leaders Rangers by 21 points, the 1-0 loss against Arsenal on Nov. 1. it is their strength in depth. Last season, cal presence and experience of Nemanja the lads look to, he’s a world champion moment. We will see what is going to and while they have three games Yet since then United have accumu- United struggled whenever they were Matic alongside Paul Pogba. Pogba got of course and we’re seeing the best of happen,” he said. “It will be a beautiful in hand, their bid for a record lated 29 points from a possible 33 and forced to alternate their starting lineup the winning goal and delivered another Paul at the moment. I feel he is getting game for everyone. A big game coming 10th successive title is hanging with seven wins out of eight in an un- but they now have plenty of options confi dent display, the latest indication better and better for every game,” said up so let’s get ready for it.” by a slender thread.

ITALIAN CUP SPOTLIGHT Lukaku books Inter clash with Foden strikes against Brighton to send Milan, holders Napoli advance Man City third in Premier League AFP Manchester, United Kingdom

hil Foden fi red Manches- ter City into third place in the Premier League yesterday as Pep Guar- diola’sP men saw off a feisty chal- lenge from Brighton to win 1-0. Much of the recent talk has been about a potential duel between leaders Manchester United and champions Liverpool but Pep Guardiola’s men are now right in the mix. The 2018 and 2019 champions started the season sluggishly but have hit the ac- celerator in recent weeks and are now just one point behind Liver- pool with a game in hand. City played without a recog- nised striker against Graham Inter Milan’s Romelu Lukaku (left) scores a header during the Italian Cup round of sixteen match Potter’s Brighton but despite against Fiorentina at the Artemio-Franchi stadium in Florence, Italy, yesterday. (AFP) not being at their best in soggy Manchester City’s Phil Foden (right) scores against Brighton in the Premier League yesterday. (AFP) Manchester, eventually had just AFP a penalty shootout with his 17th goal this season enough to beat the well-or- De Bruyne had another chance the second half. Riyad Mahrez brought him down but substitute Milan in all competitions. “It was important to qualify, ganised visitors. The home side fi ve minutes from half-time af- should have doubled the lead in Raheem Sterling blazed his spot- there will be time to recover,” said coach Antonio dominated possession in the ear- ter a swift break but his powerful the 58th minute, sending his left- kick over the bar. The win means Conte days before Inter host champions Juventus ly stages without creating much shot was well saved. footed shot wide after being put City are now unbeaten in their omelu Lukaku headed in an extra-time in Serie A. “This results will give us a boost. We’ll of note and Brighton carried an City’s pressure fi nally told in through. City again went close. 14 games in all competitions and winner as Inter Milan set up an Italian now measure our ambitions against Juventus.” intermittent threat on the break. the 44th minute. Foden received Gundogan forced a good save have won seven in a row. Cup quarter-fi nal clash with city rivals AC Milan won 5-4 on penalities on Tuesday City had a golden chance to take the ball from De Bruyne on the from Sanchez and the rebound City have largely brushed AC Milan yesterday with a 2-1 last-16 after their match against Torino ended 0-0 after an early lead when the impressive left of the attack. The 20-year- fell to Bernardo Silva, who hit off the absences of a number winR over Fiorentina. Belgian Lukaku connected extra time. Holders Napoli advanced with a hard- Kevin De Bruyne was put through old wriggled past two Brighton the woodwork. Brighton’s goal of players as a result of various with Nicolo Barella’s cross in the 119th minute to fought 3-2 win over Empoli. The Tuscany side by Ilkay Gundogan but goalkeep- defenders and stroked the ball was leading a charmed life and coronavirus issues. Sergio Ague- beat Fiorentina goalkeeper Pietro Terracciano and had a Covid-19 scare hours before kick-off with er Robert Sanchez blocked the inside the near post from the Sanchez denied Joao Cancello ro missed out as he continues his snatch a late triumph. several team members forced to isolate after con- Belgian’s shot right-footed shot edge of the box. and De Bruyne as the home side period in self-isolation after be- Chilean Arturo Vidal had given Inter the ad- tact with a positive case. All tested negative. from close range. It was the England interna- kept probing. But City lacked the ing identifi ed as a close contact vantage fi ve minutes before the break in normal Andrea Petagna scored the winner off a re- Brighton’s Leandro Trossard tional’s eighth goal of the sea- control they had in the fi rst half of someone who tested positive time after a VAR review judged Terracciano to bound with quarter of an hour to go after Nedim had a chance to test the return- son – he is City’s top-scorer in and never looked entirely com- for coronavirus. But Ederson was have fouled Alexis Sanchez. But Christian Koua- Bajrami had twice pulled Empoli level. Giovanni ing Ederson in the City goal but all competitions this campaign. fortable with such a narrow lead. back in goal following a spell on me blasted in a superb equaliser 12 minutes after Di Lorenzo headed in a Hirving Lozano cross after he bent his shot wide. As City No player has more assists in all Brighton engineered some the sidelines after testing posi- half-time to take the match to extra-time. 18 minutes, with the Mexican scoring the second found their rhythm, Joel Veltman competitions than De Bruyne, promising situations but failed to tive for Covid-19 and Gabriel Je- Lukaku came off the bench on 69 minutes and seven minutes before the break. Napoli next play reacted well to clear before Foden with 14. The goal meant Brighton properly test Ederson. De Bruyne sus, who also contracted the vi- with a minute to go ensured Inter avoided going to either Roma or Spezia in the quarter-fi nals. could poke the ball in the net and had to change their game plan for won a late penalty after Sanchez rus, appeared as a substitute. Gulf Times Thursday, January 14, 2021 7 FOOTBALL

QNB STARS LEAGUE Fetfatzidid’s twin strikes help Al Khor shock Al Ahli Kodjia converts penalty in the stoppage time as Gharafa hold Arabi; Umm Salal and Wakrah play out goalless draw

By Sports Reporter Doha

iannis Fetfatzidid struck a brace as Al Khor stunned Al Ahli 2-1 in the QNB Stars League at the Al Ahli Stadium Gyesterday. Fetfatzidid’s goals came in the second and seventh minute as The Knights moved on to 10 points but stay one place above bottom. Al Ahli pulled one back in the form of an own goal by Al Khor defender Rafael Dos Santos in the 63rd minute but ran out of time to fi nd an equaliser. Al Ahli, who once led the QNB Stars League standings, slipped to sixth from fi fth with 22 points. They have same points as Al Rayyan but are placed sixth posi- tion on goal diff erence. It was Al Khor’s only second victory in this season’s tournament and the three points that they collected would prove crucial in their bid to survive in the top fl ight. Both teams came off defeats, with Al Ahli losing to Al Arabi and Al Khor losing to Umm Salal by an identical 0-1 margin in Week 13. How- ever, Al Khor had the last laugh this time around. Al Khor cruised to an early lead as Giannis scored off an assist by Elnagi Elsadiq following a faulty clearance by the rival defence. They doubled the ad- Al Gharafa players celebrate after Jonathan Kodjia scored a last-minute equaliser vantage as Giannis converted a penalty against Al Arabi yesterday. awarded after Al Ahli’s Mohamed al- Abbasi fouled him. Kodjia found time and space to drill a fl ick from close range was blocked by The Brigadiers tried hard, particu- shot towards far right of Al Arabi keeper the keeper with his chest. larly with Hernan Perez and Nabil El Mahmoud Abunada in the 26th minute. In a dramatic end to the match, Zhar making attempts at the rival goal. Al Arabi’s Aron Gunnarsson, however, Al Gharafa pulled off the equaliser However, they were unsuccessful with showed instinctive sharpness to thrust through a penalty kick. Al Arabi substi- the exception of an own goal scored by his left leg to defl ect the ball away inch- tute Jassem Jaber brought down Amro Dos Santos, who accidentally placed es from the goalline. Seraj inside the box and referee Abdulla the ball into his own net as he tried to Al Khor’s Giannis Fetfatzidid (right) in action against Al Ahli during the QNB Stars League match yesterday. The ever-busy Gunnarsson deliv- Ali Athba sought VAR replays to make clear a long cross from the left by Al ered a clean cross to El Neel in the 37th the penalty decision. Ahli’s Ibrahim Majed amid a goalmouth Al Arabi in the 11th minute, but right Hassan, but narrowly missed the goal- into the act in the 11th minute when minute just outside the Al Gharafa Kodjia delivered a perfect penalty confusion that also involved goalkeeper at the end of the clash, Jonathan Kod- post. Just two minutes later, Al Arabi he headed the ball off a long throw in, box, but the latter misfi red. In the 57th kick that crashed into the net though Baba Djibril and fellow defender Mo- jia (90+7) converted a penalty to seal once again came close to scoring, but but the ball narrowly went past the minute, Mehrdad drilled a left-footed the goalkeeper dived correctly to his hamed al-Naimi. a hard-fought draw for Al Gharafa. Al the Al Gharafa keeper recovered quickly left goalpost. Seconds later, Al Arabi shot from outside the Al Gharafa box, right. The Al Arabi fans walked off de- Earlier, a dramatic penalty on the Gharafa and Al Arabi are now on 24 and to collect the ball he had dropped on a opened the scoring. but his shot was caught by the rival jectedly after the tensed penalty kick. fi nal touch of the match helped Al 19 points respectively. long cross. Al Arabi’s Mohamed Salah After receiving a cross, Mehrdad Mo- goalkeeper. El Neel soon produced a In an earlier match yesterday, Umm Gharafa share points with a spirited Al In the fi fth minute, Al Arabi’s Ayoub El Neel attempted to tap the loose ball hammadi fi red a shot towards the goal similar attacking shot that was saved Salal and Al Wakrah played out a goal- Arabi side following a 1-1 draw at the Azzi tried his luck with a powerful shot into the net, but keeper Ali showed that was blocked, but the ball fumbled by the keeper. In the 70th minute, So- less draw with both teams staying at 14 Qatar SC Stadium. around 10 yards away from the Al Arabi quick refl exes to collect the ball. out of the goalkeeper’s hands and Tor- ria, who had an outstanding game, points. Both teams produced chances Mehdi Torabi opened the scoring for box. The ball dipped on keeper Yousef Al Arabi’s Sebastian Soria also got abi quickly tapped the ball into the net. sneaked into the Al Gharafa box, but his but failed to convert it.

TRANSFER SPOTLIGHT Atletico sign Dembele from Lyon on loan Atletico tighten grip on La Liga

AFP passed his medical in Madrid. The La Liga two games in hand over second-placed Real Madrid club described him as a “powerful striker” Madrid. Dembele is expected to be available lead with win over Sevilla with “a knack for goal”. The 24-year-old’s in early February after undergoing an op- arrival follows Diego Costa’s contract being eration on a broken arm, meaning he could tletico Madrid announced the loan terminated in December. feature in Atletico’s fi rst leg against Chelsea signing of French striker Moussa Dembele will compete with Luis Suarez, in the Champions League last 16 on Febru- Dembele from Lyon yesterday. Joao Felix and Angel Correa for a place up ary 23. After impressive spells at Fulham and Dembele will join Atletico un- front as he looks to boost Atletico’s hopes Celtic, Dembele joined Lyon in 2018. But tilA the end of the season when the club will of winning La Liga this season and earn a despite a decent fi rst season that saw him have the option to buy him permanently place in the France squad at the European score 16 goals in Ligue 1, he had fallen out for around 35mn euros. Atletico have paid Championships this summer. Atletico sit favour this term and managed just one goal an initial fee of 1.5mn euros after Dembele four points clear at the top of the table with in 12 appearances.

FOCUS Lewandowski credits his former coach Klopp in making him a top striker

AFP Berlin

obert Lewandowski has opened up Atletico Madrid’s Saul Niguez (left) after scoring against Sevilla in the La Liga on Tuesday. (Reuters) about the role Jurgen Klopp played in his career as the Bayern Munich Reuters certain moments in the game but cope with the weather. “It’s dif- striker continues to bang in the Madrid they didn’t cause us too much fi cult to play when it’s this cold goalsR this season for the European cham- danger, they had a lot of posses- and they are an excellent side pions. Lewandowski was voted FIFA’s best sion but couldn’t harm us,” said so it was tough for us, but they male player last month, while Klopp won a Liga leaders Atletico goalscorer Correa. “We prepare had only really two chances and the men’s coach award for the second year Madrid proved their title for very game in order to win scored two goals,” he said. running after ending Liverpool’s 30-year credentials yet again by it and that’s what we’re trying The home side welcomed wait to be crowned English league champi- beating in-form Sevilla to do. We knew Sevilla would back Trippier for the fi rst time ons in 2019/20. L2-0 at home on Tuesday night to be diffi cult opponents, they are since Dec. 23 after his 10-week Last season, Lewandowski, 32, helped stride four points clear at the top having a great season, so I’m very suspension for breaking betting Bayern sweep the treble of Champions of the standings. Atletico got off happy we managed to win.” rules in England was put on hold League, Bundesliga and German Cup titles to an ideal start when Angel Cor- Atletico had enjoyed a rest pending an appeal and the Eng- — fi nishing as top-scorer in each — with a rea received a pass from return- over the weekend as their match land defender proved his value by total of 55 goals from 47 matches in all com- ing right back Kieran Trippier with Athletic Bilbao had been playing a big part in both goals. petitions. and took Sevilla by surprise with postponed due to a snowstorm in Atletico coach Diego Sime- The Poland striker has already netted 20 a shot which bounced in off the the Spanish capital, although the one opted to start 126mn euro Bundesliga goals this season and in a piece Robert Lewandowski (left) played under Jurgen Klopp at Borussia Dortmund. near post to give them the lead in freezing conditions had also dis- ($154mn) forward Joao Felix on written for The Player’s Tribune, Lewand- the 17th minute. rupted their training schedule. the bench for the second game in owski puts his success down to Klopp, 53, left Dortmund the year after to coach Liver- ‘The Bomber, as Mueller was known, Midfi elder Saul Niguez eff ec- Thick mounds of snow could a row in favour of Correa and the when he coached him at Borussia Dort- pool. “He was not content to let you be a B bagged 365 goals in Germany’s top-fl ight, tively clinched the victory with be seen on the sidelines of the Argentine repaid his faith with an mund. “Jurgen was not only a father fi gure student, you know? Jurgen wanted A+ stu- including 40 in the 1971/72 season, a record a thumping eff ort from the edge Wanda Metropolitano and with enterprising shot from the edge to me,” wrote Lewandowski. dents. He didn’t want it for him. He wanted which still stands. Lewandowski says apart of the area in the 76th to score his temperatures dropping to minus of the area, fl ummoxing Sevilla “As a coach, he was like the ‘bad’ teacher, it for you,” wrote Lewandowski. from Klopp, Bayern’s former coaches Jupp fi rst goal of the season and con- seven Celsius, Atletico’s substi- keeper Bono. the one who was strict with you. The one He has scored 256 goals in the Bundesliga Heynckes, Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti demn Sevilla to a fi rst defeat in 10 tutes kept warm in the stands by Sevilla had won seven of their who put pressure on you and did everything for Bayern and Dortmund, making him the and current boss Hansi Flick also helped games in all competitions. warming up with exercise bikes previous nine matches and did to get the best out of you.” league’s top-scoring foreigner. He could him improve. “Just playing for Bayern is an The victory took Atletico on placed next to electric heaters. not make things easy for Diego Klopp plucked Lewandowski from the soon eclipse Klaus Fischer’s tally of 263 educational experience really, because the to 41 points after 16 games, four Sevilla midfi elder Fernando Simeone’s side, fi ring 13 shots at Polish league as a raw talent in 2010, becom- goals to become the league’s second highest demands are so high, and the club culture clear of second-placed Real Ma- admitted his side, from one of goal to Atletico’s fi ve although ing one of Europe’s best strikers by the time goal-scorer behind only Bayern legend Gerd is so professional — you are forced to raise drid who have played 18. “We the few cities in Spain that were only managing to work Atletico he signed for Bayern in 2014, while Klopp Mueller. your standards.” knew we would have to suff er in spared the snow, struggled to keeper Jan Oblak twice.

Thursday, January 14, 2021 GULF TIMES SPORT

TENNIS Qatari handball team Australian Open men’s qualifi ers successfully conclude in Doha will leave for

By Sports Reporter and Bernard Tomic of Australia back of his straight-sets 6-2, 6-3 Egypt today Doha are also going to be making an Carlos Alcaraz of upset of No. 2-seed and world appearance in Australia. Spain in action No. 111 Hugo Dellien of Bolivia. for men’s Craig Tiley, Tennis Australia during the Australian It was a fi tting closing for the Worlds fter four days of excit- CEO and Australian Open Tour- Open qualifying Spaniard, who has been one of ing Australian Open nament Director, said, “There’s tournament at Khalifa the major revelations of the past QNA qualifying action at the no question the Qatar Tennis International Tennis year, as he managed to drop just Doha Khalifa International Federation are world champions and Squash Complex a single set at the tournament TennisA and Squash Complex, 16 on how they’ve managed this in Doha. (Tennis – his fi rst-round match against entrants emerged yesterday for event for us. Very quickly we had Australia) Slovakia’s Filip Horansky. he Qatari handball the year’s fi rst Grand Slam in to turn around and put an event World No. 182 Ferreira Silva team will leave Melbourne. on with more than 120 play- turned out to be a giant slayer Tfor Egypt today to A total of 128 players, partici- ers plus their entourage, that’s as he ended the hopes of tour- participate in the 27th Men’s pated in the event held outside a massive draw size, and there nament top-seed Gregoire Bar- World Championship, which of Australia for the fi rst time in hasn’t been a draw size that big rere of France, winning the last started yesterday and will the tournament’s 116-year his- in Doha before, so that’s signifi - match of the tournament 6-3, run until January 31. tory. cant they were able to do it so 6-4 in one hour and 43 minutes The Qatari delegation is led In the end, Spain’s Carlos well at short notice.” on Court A. by Qatar Handball Associa- Alcaraz, a 17-year-old ranked He added, “We are very for- Former world No. 17 Tomic, tion (QHA) President Ahmed No. 141 who won three ATP tunate Qatar are handling the on the other hand, secured his al-Shaabi, and includes Challenger titles in 2020 and pandemic so well, and the test- 11th Australian Open appearance member of the Board of was voted the ATP Tour’s New- ing is vigilant and ongoing to with a gruelling 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 Directors Khalifa Tay- comer of the Year, Elias Ymer of ensure everyone is kept safe. (7) victory over compatriot and seer, Director of the Team Sweden, Ukraine’s Sergiy Sta- The Qatar Tennis Federation has wildcard entrant John-Patrick Youssef al-Hail, and admin- khovsky and Belgium’s Kimmer been magnifi cent in partner- Smith. istrative manager of the Coppejans were among those ing with us, our own Andre Sa, No. 3 seed Karatsev secured team Youssef al-Moallem. who made the Melbourne cut. a former top player has done a his ticket after defeating Al- The technical staff is led by Others on the list are magnifi cent job being a tourna- exandre Muller of France 6-2, Spanish head coach Valero 174-ranked Michael Mmoh of ment director for the fi rst time, 6-1 while Stakhovsky overcame Rivera, in addition to 20 the US, Czech Republic’s Tomas alongside Karim and his team on Australia’s wild-card entrant players. Machac, Spain’s Mario Vilella delivering a safe and successful Dane Sweeny in a decider, win- The Qatari national team Martinez, former world No. 12 event.” ning 2-6, 6-3, 6-1. will compete in the World Viktor Troicki of Serbia, Roman Tiley noted that when the or- World No. 204 Ymer proved Championship in Group Safi ullin of Russia, and Switzer- ganisers were looking for cities Karim Alami, Qatar Tennis be held outside Australia in the had a great time in Qatar and we too much of a hurdle for fi fth- C, which includes Croatia, land’s Henri Laaksonen. around the world for the Aus- Federation (QTF) Board Mem- tournament over a century his- doubtlessly look forward to wel- seed Taro Daniel of Japan to Japan and Angola. USA’s Maxime Cressy, Aslan tralian Open qualifi ers, right ber, said, “We are greatly de- tory. We thank the Australian coming them back in the nearest cross as the Swedish won in The national team will play Karatsev of Russia, Botic Van de away Doha was on top of that lighted with the success of this Open organisers and the ATP for future.” straight-sets 6-1, 6-2. Halys, with Angola tomorrow, Ja- Zandschulp of the Netherlands, list. “So we made the phone call, tournament. It was a great privi- the confi dence they had in us in Alcaraz, seeded 21, secured on the other hand, stopped the pan on Sunday, and Croatia France’s Quentin Halys, Portu- and the arrangement was made lege for us to host the fi rst-ever off ering us this opportunity. I his debut appearance at the fi rst progress of Dutch Robin Haase on Tuesday. guese Frederico Ferreira Silva straight away,” he said. Australian Open qualifi ers to believe all the participants have Grand Slam of the year on the with his 6-3, 6-4 win.

HORSE RACING Return To Senders bags feature; Qatari riders shine Qatari jockeys ride seven winnersInjaaz Stud horses land four races Treble for trainer Jassim Ghazali

By Mikhil Bhat Doha

asser Saeed al-Eida’s Return To Senders landed the Umm Al Afai Cup sprint on a spec- Ntacular day for Qatari jockeys, who rode seven out of 10 win- ners, and the colours of Injaaz Stud at Qatar Racing and Eques- trian Club’s Al Rayyan Park yes- terday. Return to Senders, helmed by JP Guillambert, held off Ivan Rossi-ridden Shobrom and Faleh Bughanaim-guided Chattanooga Bay, both wards of Ahmed Kobeissi to enter the winner’s enclosure for the fi rst time this season despite a promising run of results. In the process, handler Jassim Mohamed Ghazali com- pleted a hat-trick of wins yes- terday. Earlier, Ghazali and his son, Mohamed, saddled two winners each for Injaaz Stud. In the penultimate race of the day, Ali Khalid al-Mosallam rode the versatile Lekhraib, saddled by Ghazali junior, to the seven- year-old’s fourth win in six out- ings in the six-furlong Purebred Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club Racing manager Abdulla Rashid al-Kubaisi (third from right) with the winners of Umm Al Afai Cup after Nasser JP Guillambert rides Return To Senders to victory in the Umm Al Afai Arabian Conditions sprint. The Saeed al-Eida’s Return To Senders won the 1100m sprint at Al Rayyan Park yesterday. PICTURES: Juhaim Cup at Al Rayyan Park yesterday. win capped an impressive day in offi ce for the Qatari apprentice Hamad al-Jehani also saddled ¾. Time: 2:03.61. Owner: Rashid 1. Rodeyna (JP Guillambert), 2. rider, who registered three victo- Ahmed Hassan al-Malki al-Je- bin Mubarak al-Jafali al-Naimi. Sarmad Bu Thaila (Killian Leon- ries taking his season’s tally to 16. hani’s Jurz in the Thoroughbred Trainer: Majed Seifeddine. ard), 3. Maksab (Faleh Bugha- Hamad al-Jehani-trained I Handicap run for Qatari riders. Race 4: THOROUGHBRED naim), 4. Tilal (Marco Casamento). Am Thunder was the fi rst winner Jurz had Meshaal Abdlatif al- HANDICAP (Class 5) (QATARI Won by: 4 ¼, 6 ¼, ½. Time: 1:51.89. of the evening for al-Mosallam Mohannadi as his partner, and RIDERS ONLY) (Div 2) (70 & Owner: Injaaz Stud. Trainer: Mo- in the six-furlong Thorougbred the jockey showed promise win- below) (Distance: 1,900m) hamed Jassim Ghazali. maiden, while Abdulaziz Hamad ning on only his second career 1. Jurz (Meshaal Abdlatif al- Race 8: LOCAL PUREBRED al-Marri’s Lama was the second outing. Mohannadi), 2. Pinatar (Abdulla ARABIANS (Fillies & Mares) when the mare landed the six- Al-Mohannadi had debuted Saleh al-Yafei), 3. Angelic Queen (4yo & older) (Distance: 1,200m) furlong local Arabian sprint. astride runner-up Noble An- (Ali Khalid al-Mosallam), 4. Vidiyni 1. Lama (Ali Khalid al-Mosallam), Another Qatari apprentice cestry in the fi rst running of the (Faleh Bughanaim). Won by: ¾, 2. Qoot (Saleh Salem al-Marri), 3. jockey, Saleh Salem al-Marri, too Thoroughbred handicap yester- 1 ¼, 1 ¼. Time: 2:05.77. Owner: RS Rasheeda (Carlos Henrique), took his season’s victory tally to day even as Rashid Ali al-Marri Ahmed Hassan al-Malki al-Jehani. 4. Harab Al Naif (Faleh Bugha- 16 with two winners yesterday, helmed Better Than Ever to a Trainer: Hamad al-Jehani. naim). Won by: 2 ¾, 3 ½, 3 ¼. Time: including Injaaz Stud’s Muthhil, scintillating six-and-a-half Race 5: THOROUGHBRED 1:20.03. Owner: Abdulaziz Hamad trained by Ghazali senior, in the length victory in the 1,900m run. HANDICAP (Class 4) (80 & Ateeq al-Marri. Trainer: Abdulaziz Purebred Arabian Handicap for below) (Distance: 1,200m) Hamad al-Marri. horses rated 80 and below. Al- RESULTS 1. Khafooq (Marco Casamento), Race 9: PUREBRED ARABIAN Marri started his day with a win Race 1: LOCAL PUREBRED 2. Superior Moment (Soufiane CONDITIONS (Distance: 1,200m) astride Rashid al-Jehani-trained ARABIAN NOVICE PLATE Saadi), 3. Inde (Michael Forest), 4. 1. Lekhraib (Ali Khalid al-Mosal- Stam Al Naif in the colours of (Distance: 1,200m) Shellbrook (Saleh Salem al-Marri). lam), 2. Ateej (Soufiane Saadi), Khalid Rashid al-Mohannadi, 1. Stam Al Naif (Saleh Salem Won by: 6, 2, 1 ¼. Time: 1:11.84. 3. Baker De Saularie (Ghofrane in the six-furlong local Arabian al-Marri), 2. Ghannam (Alberto Owner: Injaaz Stud. Trainer: Jas- Ghrissi), 4. Shabih Alreeh (Michael novice race. The nine-year-old Sanna), 3. Texas (Soufiane Saadi), sim Mohamed Ghazali. Forest). Won by: 5, Nk, 10. Time: horse picked up a fi ne win, enter- 4. Inqath (Ivan Rossi). Won by: 1 Race 6: PUREBRED ARABIAN 1:17.85. Owner: Injaaz Stud. Train- ing the winner’s circle after more ½, Shd, 2 ¼. Time: 1:20.89. Owner: HANDICAP (80 & below) er: Mohamed Jassim Ghazali. than three-and-a-half years. Khalid Rashid al-Mohannadi. (Distance: 1,700m) Race 10: UMM AL AFAI CUP (T/B Another Ghazali senior ward, Trainer: Rashid al-Jehani. 1. Muthhil (Saleh Salem al-Marri), HANDICAP 75 - 95) (Distance: Khafooq, was ridden to victory Race 2: THOROUGHBRED 2. Anees (Marco Casamento), 1,100m) by Marco Casamento in the In- MAIDEN PLATE (Class 6) 3. Tasslam (Carlos Henrique), 1. Return To Senders (JP Guil- jaaz colours in the six-furlong (Distance: 1,200m) Ali Khalid al-Mosallam rides Injaaz Stud’s Lekhraib to victory in the Purebred Arabian Conditions event at Al 4. Mister General (Ali Khalid lambert), 2. Shobrom (Ivan Rossi), Thoroughbred Handicap sprint. 1. I Am Thunder (Ali Khalid al- Rayyan Park yesterday. al-Mosallam). Won by: 2, 1, 1 ¼. 3. Chattanooga Bay (Faleh Bugha- The spectacular win saw Khafooq Mosallam), 2. Swagger (Marco Time: 2:00.97. Owner: Injaaz Stud. naim), 4. Leafy Moss (Ali Khalid win by a mammoth six lengths. Casamento), 3. Villain’s Voice al-Kuwari. Trainer: Hamad al- RIDERS ONLY) (Div 1) (70 & (Meshaal Abdlatif al-Mohannadi), Trainer: Jassim Mohamed Ghazali. al-Mosallam). Won by: 1 ½, 1 ½, Rodeyna was ridden to local (Jason Watson), 4. Flirty Rascal Jehani. below) (Distance: 1,900m) 3. Comrade In Arms (Faleh Race 7: LOCAL ½. Time: 1:04.73. Owner: Nasser Thoroughbred handicap victory (Rashid Ali al-Marri). Won by: 2 ¾, Race 3: THOROUGHBRED 1. Better Than Ever (Rashid Ali Bughanaim), 4. Detox (Meteb THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP Saeed al-Eida. Trainer: Jassim by Guillambert in Injaaz colours. 4 ¼, 5 ½. Owner: Yousuf Mubarak HANDICAP (Class 5) (QATARI al-Marri), 2. Noble Ancestry Ali al-Marri). Won by: 6 ½, 1 ¾, 3 (85 & below) (Distance: 1,700m) Mohamed Ghazali.