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Wednesday 7 December 2016 PAGE | 27 PAGE | 28 Bjorn to captain David Warner'ser's Europe at 2018 big day in Ryder Cup Canberra Experts don't see Asian countries dominating at World Cup just yet

Armstrong Vas The Peninsula

o Asian country has ever won the FIFA World Cup since 1930 and the script is Nunlikely to change for another two editions, foot- ball administrators say. In a candid chat at a Soc- Qatar Football Association Board cerex Asian Forum, football pundits - drawn from differ- member Hani Ballan receiving the Asian ent continents - said that Football Confederation (AFC) Dream they did not see the prospect Asia Award at the AFC Annual Awards Abdullah Fehani, Project Manager for of an Asian country winning 2016 ceremony in Abu Dhabi, UAE last Al Rayyan Stadium, giving a progress the game's showpiece event Thursday. in the coming years. update on the stadiums currently under Daniel Cravo, Senior construction in Qatar, during the second partner at Cravo, Pastl & Bal- day of Soccerx Asian Forum 2016 at the buena, one of the panelists, Grand Hyatt Hotel in Doha yesterday. QFA wins 'AFC said Brazil and Germany are Pictures by: Salim Matramkot/The Peninsula the leading contenders for the title when the World Cup hosting the FIFA World Cup in Dream Asia is held in Qatar. 2022," Ezzat said. “For me, Europe is one "China is definitely a step ahead of South Amer- great place to learn from. Award' for Koora ica. There are a lot of good Saudi Council of Ministers players from Brazil playing has approved privatisation in different leagues in the of professional football clubs Time Initiative world. They are little young in the Kingdom and convert- now but I trust the (new) ing them into companies. generation,” Cravo said "The General Authority The Peninsula yesterday. of Sports will grant licenses “German will be very to these companies with cer- he Qatar Football Association (QFA) was strong in tune with the tain terms and conditions, named winner of the Asian Football upcoming two editions and Trevor Watkins, Global Daniel Cravo, Senior Adel Ezzat, Saudi Arabian which we will have to wait T Confederation (AFC) Dream Asia Award Spain will rebuild,” he added Head of Sports at Partner, Cravo, Pastl and Football Federation for and see. at the AFC Annual Awards 2016 gala event in quickly. Pinsent Masons Balbuena Presidential Candidate "The Authority will also Abu Dhabi last Thursday. European and South develop rules and regula- The QFA claimed this year’s social respon- American teams have dom- people play football in Asia investments made by Chi- other’s players. In recent tions for the operation of the sibility accolade for the second time in three inated all World Cup editions than in Europe. There are nese buyers in overseas time, several top Latin clubs. This privatisation of years, recognising the success of the Koora even though 20 million more more football players in Asia clubs. The panel felt the Chi- American and European clubs is expected to increase Time Initiative which was developed in part- than in the Caribbean and nese market has a created a players have signed with investment available to build nership with Qatar Shell. North, Central, and South new buzz from Europe to Chinese clubs. stadiums and bring in for- The prestigious AFC Dream Asia Award Asia yet to shine America combined, but the South America. In January Chelsea’s eign transfers," Ezzat added. is presented to an outstanding Member Asso- European and South World Cup title has eluded “The Chinese market Brazilian Ramires The situation in India, ciation in recognition and appreciation of its American teams the Asians. has created a new move- went to Jiangsu Suning for a however, is different said social development work through football. have overshadowed Adel Ezzat, Saudi Ara- ment of players from Chinese Super League Cravo. Players who are on Koora Time is a five-year sustainable ini- bian Football Federation Europe to Asia but they still record €28m while Hebei the verge of retirement got tiative designed to improve the health and all the editions of President, said the Nether- are not the top players. They China Fortune bought Ivo- to India to play in the Indian wellbeing of Qatar’s youth through football. the world Cup, even lands could also spring a are the players who are still rian striker from Super League (IPS). The initiative facilitates access to additional though 20 million surprise at the next two seeking competition. They AS Roma for €18m and “From another prospec- hours of physical activity and more oppor- more people play editions. are still seeking to move to Shanghai Shenhua swooped tive, India is attracting another tunities and spaces to play football. The football in Asia than “I do not see the prospect Europe back from Asia,” on ’s Colombian profile of athletes, mainly top flagship programme Il’Ab We’Yana provides in Europe. of any Asian country win- said Cravo. international Fredy Guarin players who are closer to each child with an additional 72 hours of ning the World Cup but if The Chinese have been for €13m. retirement,” Cravo said. " physical activity over its 18-week duration. There are more there is any country which poaching talent from the The Chinese model for Each Asian country has Since its launch in March 2013, the pro- football players in deserve to win the Cup it is world’s richest leagues with football growth - that they a different approach Cravo gramme has benefitted over 17,500 children Asia than in the the Netherlands,” Ezzat said big-money transfers in an bring high profile players to said. “So it is hard to describe across Qatar. Last year’s programme saw a Caribbean and while addressing delegates attempt to build football. their leagues and buy clubs the continental approach as significant reduction in Body Mass Index (BMI) North, Central, and in a session moderated by The Chinese clubs were in Europe - could help GCC each country has its peculi- by 80% of participants. BMI is a measure of South America Trevor Watkins, Global Head responsible for three of the football improve, Ezzat said. arity but sill for people from body fat based on height and weight. combined, but the of Sport of Pinsent Masons. four biggest deals in the last “This privatisation is a South America it is a very In recognition for its positive impact on The panel discussed big- winter transfer window, the learning for us in the GCC attractive market because of the health of youth, KOORA TIME has been World Cup title has spending approach of mid-season period when where we have loads of oppor- the numbers involved," he the recipient of numerous awards including eluded the Asians. Chinese clubs and also the clubs can bid for each tunities, particularly with Qatar said. the ‘Sports Industry Award’ for Best CSR Ini- tiative, ‘CSR Award Qatar’ for Best CSR Impact Initiative, the ‘Dar Al Sharq Corpo- rate Social Responsibility Award’ for the Best Sports Initiative, and the ‘2014 AFC Dream Cooke highlights importance of handling of Asia Award’ in the area of social responsibility. Since Koora Time’s inauguration in March 2013, QFA and Qatar Shell have wit- security-related issues at major events nessed some truly fantastic results. These international awards acknowledge just how The Peninsula Security Operations, drew upon his host cities and nations, as well as to serve and safeguard sport, the ICSS much the two organisations can contribute 25 year experience, speaking on a sporting bodies, to better collaborate encourages an integrated approach to society in hopes that others are inspired to ith the growing influence panel entitled ‘Preparing for Major and share information at a global to sharing knowledge and expertise follow suit. of technology and the Event Tournaments’. level about how to effectively address in sport safety and security. We are The Koora Time initiative is part of QFA’s Wincreasing security chal- Cooke underlined how the grow- the growing challenges major sport also firmly committed to bringing CSR strategy which aims to constantly lever- lenges facing host and bidding ing influence of technology in sport events are facing around their safety together knowledge and experience age on its existing partnerships to educate nations, a leading Safety and Secu- is resulting in the need for more and security," Cooke said. from all sectors around the world and the communities about the positive values of rity expert from the International sports and countries around the world “As we have seen over the last 12 sharing our expertise to help host cit- playing football and inspire the youth to play Centre for Sport Security (ICSS) yes- to collaborate and share knowledge months, hosting and bidding nations ies and nations ultimately deliver a football terday highlighted the need for in the field of major event security continue to face a growing number safe and secure event," Cooke said. “At Qatar Shell we are committed to sup- enhanced international collabora- and to ensure lessons are learnt in of challenges when it comes to major “At a time where major events are porting the Qatar National Vision 2030 by tion and information sharing at a combatting security issues in sport. event security. These include issues looking to cut costs yet the number working with Qatari partners to create and global level between sports and “At a time where technology is around cybersecurity, fan violence of security threats are continuing to deliver long-term contributions to society that countries in major event security. playing an increasingly central role and crowd management issues, ter- increase, the need for global collab- generate measurable social impact,” said Speaking on the sidelines of the in our lives and the way people con- rorism, crime and unmanned aerial oration and collective action in field Mohammed Abu Jbara, CSR Manager, Qatar Soccerex Asia Forum in Doha, sume major sport events, there is now vehicles (UAVs) to name just a few." of major event security has never Shell. Andrew Cooke, ICSS Director of a very real need for governments of “As an organisation established been more important,” he said. SPORT 7 DECEMBER 2016 WEDNESDAY 27 Klay and Westbrook break NBA records

Atlanta NBA which had won six in a row and AP would have overtaken the Cavaliers Westbrook has scored the for the top spot in the Eastern Con- lenty of points for Klay NBA's longest streak of ference with a victory. Thompson. Plenty of eve- triple-doubles since Instead, LeBron James scored a rything, as usual, for Michael Jordan had seven season-high 34 points as the defend- Russell Westbrook. in a row in 1989. ing champions got back on track with On a momentous night a 116-112 victory. Pin the NBA, Thompson had the big- On a momentous night in Gasol had 28 points, 11 rebounds gest game with a career-high 60 the NBA, Thompson had and 11 assists for his second career points and Westbrook continued his the biggest game with a triple-double, and Memphis needed sensational season with a sixth career-high 60 points in all of it to overcome NBA scoring straight triple-double. 29 minutes only. leader Anthony Davis in a 110-108, An 11-game schedule stole the double-overtime victory over New show Monday on a night that's long Orleans. Davis finished with 28 belonged to the NFL. There were so more in this one if the Warriors points and 17 rebounds. many mesmerizing performances weren't so explosive. He checked out Damian Lillard and Dwyane that even otherwise great ones after just 29 minutes and less than Wade staged a duel in Chicago, with weren't good enough to get much three quarters and thought some- Lillard's 30 points helping Portland notice. thing like 80 could've been in play if overcome Wade's 34 in a 112-110 vic- Thompson's topped them all, he could've stayed on the floor. tory. The Lakers' Lou Williams went with a 40-point first half in under 19 Westbrook, who is averaging a for 38 points in a 107-101 loss to Utah, NBA minutes of Golden State's 142-106 triple-double, was chosen Western following his 40-point game in Mem- Utah 107 - 101 LA Lakers victory over Indiana. Conference player of the week Mon- phis two nights earlier for the first Golden State 142 - 106 Indiana Marc Gasol had a triple-double day and is probably the leader in the back-to-back 30-point games of his Charlotte 109 - 101 Dallas and James Harden wasn't far off, but race for the NBA's biggest individual 12-year NBA career. Portland 112 - 110 Chicago San Antonio 97 - 96 Milwaukee Westbrook does that every night. He prize, the MVP. He has 11 triple-dou- Two of the NBA's best teams lost Memphis 110 - 108 New Orleans had 32 points, 13 rebounds and 12 bles in 22 games, has led the Thunder guards to knee injuries Monday. Smith Housten 107 - 106 Boston assists in Oklahoma City's 102-99 to six straight wins and has been so will return to Cleveland for further Cleveland 116 - 112 Toronto victory at Atlanta, giving him the good that he's overshadowing guys examination after getting hurt when

Washington 118 - 113 Brooklyn NBA's longest streak of triple-dou- like Harden and Kevin Durant, who he landed after a jumper in the first

Oklahoma City 102 - 99 Atlanta bles since Michael Jordan had seven are having MVP-caliber seasons quarter in Toronto, while Tony Parker Denver 106 - 98 Philadelphia in a row in 1989. themselves. left a victory in Milwaukee that kept Thompson, who already owns Cleveland had lost three straight San Antonio undefeated on the road. Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder calls out to his team-mates the NBA record with 37 points in a and then lost guard J.R. Smith to Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said the against the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia yesterday. quarter, might have scored many injury early in its game at Toronto, veteran could be out a while.

LeBron James and NBA stars LeBron James Tiger adapts to age, toll on body steer clear of Trump hotel in comeback bid

Los Angeles Manhattan for this week's game play the Bulls. Several NBA play- AFP against the Knicks. ers and coaches have voiced Nassau, Bahamas The 46-story luxury build- dismay at Trump's election AFP eBron James is among a ing, which opened in 2010, is victory. group of Cleveland Cav- branded with Trump's name Last month, Cavs reserve iger Woods looks toward the Laliers players who have through a licensing agreement. forward Richard Jefferson sug- 2017 golf season with hope refused to stay in a hotel affil- The Cavaliers have a contract gested that the team's trip to This injury woes are behind iated with President-elect to reside at the hotel when in the White House to celebrate him and the second act of his career Donald Trump when the NBA New York. their NBA championship might might have echoes of its sensational champions visit New York later Last month, reports said be their last. start. this week, it was reported on three other NBA teams had "I just look across this Woods completed his come- Monday. opted to steer clear of Trump- league. There's been other back event from a career-longest ESPN cited multiple team branded hotels. players with 'scheduling con- 16-month layoff following back sources as saying that James, The Milwaukee Bucks, Mem- flicts' as they like to call it -- not surgery on Sunday at the Hero who endorsed Trump's rival phis Grizzlies and Dallas necessarily a political stance," World Challenge, settling for 15th Hillary Clinton during last Mavericks have all indicated they Jefferson said later. place after playing 72 holes in four- month's election, would not would stay elsewhere when "But I could see other under-par 284 at Albany Golf Club. stay with other team members traveling to New York to play the scheduling conflicts coming The 18-man invitational at the at the Trump SoHo hotel in Knicks and Nets and Chicago to up." remote Bahamas enclave where Woods is a member is far less of a challenge than regular PGA events will provide, much less majors. And older Woods is a far differ- ent player than the Woods of old, who captured 14 major titles start- Bjorn to captain Europe at 2018 Ryder Cup ing with the 1997 Masters and to date ending with the 2008 US Open. London Bjorn, 45, vice-captain for "This is one of the great- winner, he had been the Minnesota in October was Woods has had to make subtle AFP four previous Ryder Cups, est days in my career." favourite for the non-playing their first Ryder Cup triumph changes to his swing during his lay- succeeds Northern Irishman Bjorn, who is Denmark's post, after Ireland's Padraig since 2008.The 2018 event off to protect his back, using enmark's Thomas Bjorn Darren Clarke. most successful golfer, has played Harrington said he wanted to will take place at the Paris patterns from his younger days as (pictured) will captain "It's a huge honour for me in three Ryder Cups, finishing on play at the event, and was National from September a guide. Dthe European team at to be named European captain the winning side in 1997, 2002 chosen ahead of Scotland's 28-30. "I looked like the size of a 1-iron the 2018 Ryder Cup in Paris, for the 2018 Ryder Cup in and 2014, and twice finished sec- Paul Lawrie. "Thomas is a well- and I could hit it and I could really Ryder Cup Europe announced Paris," Bjorn said in a statement ond in the British Open. "I have lived and respected man in our game and move the ball," Woods said. "I prob- yesterday. on the Ryder Cup website. He was vice-captain of this breathed the European Tour on the European Tour," Mas- ably never will be as loose and as year's team who lost 17-11 to for so long and now I will do ters champion Danny Willett, Gumby-like (flexible) when I was the United States at the same with the Ryder Cup a member of Europe's beaten that young, but there are other Hazeltine. for the next two years," Bjorn 2016 team, told the BBC. things I can learn from that." A 15-time European Tour added. Woods has to be wary of back "I studied a lot of captains issues. With his 41st birthday as a player and as a vice-cap- approaching on December 30, tain and always wondered what Woods has changed his workout that feeling would be like to be I studied a lot of regimen to allow for the toll time the one leading out a team of and past injuries have taken on his 12 great players. Now it's my captains as a body. turn to do just that and it is an player and as a "I can't do what I used to do," exciting moment for me." vice-captain and Woods said. "My first probably five, Bjorn will be only the six years on tour, I ran 30 miles a fourth man from outside the always wondered week. I would run five, six miles British Isles to captain Europe what that feeling almost every day, at least four. after Spanish pair Seve Ball- would be like to Before a round, after a round, it esteros and Jose Maria didn't matter." Olazabal and Germany's Bern- be the one leading Weightlifting the way he once hard Langer. out a team of 12 did is no longer an option either. He was chosen by a five- great players. Now After a round, Woods now takes man panel of the three most extra time to help his body recover. recent captains -- Clarke, Paul it's my turn to do That wouldn't keep him from a McGinley and Olazabal -- plus just that: Thomas trip to the practice range after play- European Tour chief execu- Bjorn ing 18 holes, but time has changed tive Keith Pelley and European what he would do there. Tour tournament committee Woods, four shy of the all-time member Henrik Stenson. The record 18 won by Jack Nicklaus, has USA's one-sided success in 79 career triumphs, three shy of Sam Snead's all-time PGA Tour record. 28 SPORT WEDNESDAY 7 DECEMBER 2016

Kumble satisfied with DRS, not worried about Warner's big day in Canberra injuries Canberra Series win for hosts "It was great batting with Mumbai AFP the skipper (Smith) and running IANS between the wickets. This year avid Warner slammed is going great." head of the fourth Test, his sixth one-day 119 Warner was out to a low starting here from Dcentury of the year to The Australian opener catch from Williamson at cover A tomorrow, India coach lead Australia to a crushing 116- smashes 6th century of the off medium-pacer Colin de Anil Kumble yesterday said run victory and reclaim the year and 10th of his Grandhomme in the 37th over, he is happy with the out- Chappell-Hadlee Trophy series brilliant career. ending a 145-run partnership comes from the Decision off New Zealand yesterday. with Smith. Review System (DRS) so far Warner smashed 119 off 115 Smith followed up his in the ongoing series against balls to propel the Australians career-best ODI score of 164 in England. to an imposing 378 for five after 7 Sydney with 72. "It (DRS) has been really being sent into bat. They then The Australian skipper, who All-rounder Mitch Marsh good, it has been an experi- bowled out the Black Caps for was struck a painful blow in the bludgeons 7 sixes in his ment that has been happening 262 off 47.2 overs at the bat- groin by a de Grandhomme in the series, but overall play- friendly Manuka Oval. enterprising 76 off just 40 delivery on 56, sliced to Mitchell ers have been very satisfied New Zealand had to win in balls in the second ODI. Santner at deep point. with the outcome," said Canberra to keep alive their Head hit his second half- Kumble. hopes of retaining the trophy century of the series before he "I don't think it's a matter after losing by 68 runs in the Zealand's faint hopes of reeling was caught off Tim Southee. of scorekeeping which team opening game in Sydney on in the Australian target. Marsh provided late has done better. It's a matter Sunday. Williamson's gamble on fireworks with some prodigious of whether we have got a Warner led the way in sending the Australians into bat hitting, including three decision right and we have Australia's third-highest ODI backfired spectacularly when consecutive sixes off Matt done that in the last three total and was supported by the home side feasted on a Henry in a lusty cameo. Tests." skipper Steve Smith's 72 off 76 perfect batting wicket. Smith said: "330, 340 runs On India's forced shuf- balls and Travis Head's 57 from The pugnacious Warner set was probably par. 380 was a fling of their opening 32 balls, while Mitchell Marsh the tone with his 10th ODI big total. You need a lot of combination multiple times bludgeoned seven sixes in a century -- the third century in things to go right to chase it in the series against England unbeaten 76 off just 40 balls. his last five ODI innings and his down." due to injuries, Kumble said: Australia's The Black Caps made a first against New Zealand. The Black Caps lost both "That's not in our control. spirited attempt to chase Only three other Australian openers by the ninth over, with David Warner Injuries are part and parcel Australia's hefty total and were batsmen have scored more Tom Latham caught and celebrates his of the game and unfortu- 177 for three when Jimmy hundreds in ODIs -- Ricky bowled by Josh Hazlewood for nately (KL) Rahul got hit. 100-runs during Neesham fell in the 31st over Ponting (30), Mark Waugh (18) four and Martin Guptill caught Parthiv (Patel) came in the the second One for 74, ending a 125-run stand and Adam Gilchrist (16). behind off Pat Cummins for last game and did a fantastic Day International with skipper Kane Williamson. "It was a fantastic wicket 45.Neesham looked in good job at the top. I am sure Rahul against and Williamson was dismissed and once you keep wickets in touch with 74 off 83 balls before will have a hit today and New Zealand in nine overs later for 81 off 80 hand you can make 100 runs he was caught in the deep by should be fine." Canberra. balls with five fours and two in the last 10 overs," Warner Mitchell Starc off Josh He added: "For New Zea- sixes, and with him went New said. Hazlewood in the 31st over. land also we had three different opening pairs. In West Indies too (Murali) Vijay got injured, then Shikhar was SCOREBOARD injured against New Zealand, AUSTRALIA then Gautam (Gambhir) had D Warner c Williamson b de Grandhomme ....119 that freak injury in Indore England bid to keep series A Finch b Santner ...... 19 but he could bat so there is S Smith c Santner b Southee ...... 72 something happening with T Head c Munro b Southee ...... 57 the openers in terms of M Marsh (not out) ...... 76 injury. Hope that it doesn't M Wade b Boult ...... 11 G Bailey (not out) ...... 0 alive against spirited India go on." Extras (LB-11, W-10, NB-3) ...... 24 Kumble said he doesn't Total (for 5 wkts in 50 overs) ...... 378 mind having a chat with Fall of wickets: 1-68, 2-213, 3-248, 4-319, National Cricket Academy 5-357. Mumbai (NCA) director and former Bowling: Henry 10-0-91-0 (2nb; 2w); Boult AFP India captain Dilip Veng- 10-0-80-1 (3w); Santner 10-0-47-1 (1w); sarkar on this issue. Southee 10-0-63-2 (2w); De Grandhomme ngland are bidding to keep the India "So as a coach and as part 9-0-74-1 (1nb; 1w); Neesham 1-0-12-0. series alive with victory in this week's NEW ZEALAND of the coaching staff I would M Guptill c Wade b Cummins ...... 45 E fourth Test in Mumbai but defeat will like to have a chat with Dilip T Latham c&b Hazlewood ...... 4 raise further questions about Alastair Cook's (Vengsarkar, NCA director) K Williamson c Warner b Cummins ...... 81 future as captain. since we are in Mumbai and J Neesham c Starc b Hazlewood ...... 74 The visitors must win at the Wankhede with the injuries that we have C Munro c Marsh b Faulkner ...... 11 Stadium to stop top-ranked India from seal- had have been hamstring C De Grandhomme c Wade b Starc ...... 12 ing the five-Test series with a match to spare injuries which is common not M Santner b Starc ...... 2 following two consecutive defeats. B J Watling c Warner b Faulkner ...... 17 just in cricket but in any T Southee c Bailey b Cummins ...... 2 Virat Kohli's side won by eight wickets sport," he said. M Henry c Faulkner b Cummins ...... 7 in Mohali last week to take an unbeatable "And it's all been cricket- T Boult (not out) ...... 2 2-0 series lead after victory in Viskhapat- ing injuries. Unfortunately Extras (LB-1, W-4) ...... 5 nam followed a draw in the first Test at Hardik (Pandya) got injured Total (all out in 47.2 overs) ...... 262 Rajkot. by a ball in the nets. Other- Fall of wickets: 1-40, 2-52, 3-177, 4-191, Anything less than a victory for England wise Rahul got hit while he 5-229, 6-232, 7-236, 8-243, 9-254, 10-262. would see India exact revenge for their 2012 Bowling: Starc 10-0-52-2 (2w); Hazlewood was fielding at short leg, Vijay 9-1-42-2 (1w); Cummins 10-0-41-4 (1w); home series loss to Cook's men and add to

got hit while he was batting. Head 7-0-31-0; Faulkner 8.2-0-69-2; Marsh uncertainty surrounding the English So did Shikhar. So it's some- 3-0-26-0. skipper. thing that you have to live His future as captain has been in doubt England's captain with," Kumble said. since he admitted just before the tour that "The good part is people he could quit at the end of the Test series Alastair Cook who have come in have been because he was finding it hard to be apart takes a catch really good. Parthiv came in Chennai Test from his family for long periods. during a training after eight years and didn't After becoming a father for a second time session at the show the nerves you would undecided, last month, the 31-year-old left-handed Wankhede expect although he is a sea- opener said he found the long England tours Stadium in soned campaigner. He came says BCCI difficult, while insisting he remained deeply Mumbai. in, he was asked to open and proud of captaining his country. did brilliantly and kept wick- Mumbai Despite England's travails in India, coach ets well too. We are in a good IANS Trevor Bayliss said he expected Cook to be space," Kumble added. in charge for the Ashes tour at the end of The coach also heaped he Board of Control for 2017. a Test debut for opener Keaton Jennings. The Saha has yet to recover from a thigh strain, praise on the pace duo Cricket in India (BCCI) "He's talking about the next Ashes series 24-year-old South Africa-born left-handed team officials said. Mohammed Shami and T yesterday said the fate and being out in Australia," Bayliss told BBC batsman has been called up as Hameed's Former Indian batsman Virender Sehwag Umesh Yadav. of the fifth and final Test Sport. "Sometimes there are little comments replacement. expects India to be too strong for England "The two fast bowlers against England, scheduled made along the way and they get blown out All-rounder Liam Dawson is also in con- but believes the visitors will not give up the have been brilliant right from December 16 in Chen- of all proportion. He's certainly up for the tention for a place after being drafted in to series without a fight. throughout since the time I nai was still undecided, fight. I haven't had any discussion with him replace left-arm spinner Zafar Ansari, who "I think we will win 3-0 as I expect Eng- have comeback in as a coach. following the death of Tamil any other way and that's what we've been is struggling with a back injury he sustained land to show some resistance and that's why It's not just two of them, but Nadu Chief Minister J. working towards," the Australian coach in the second Test in Visakhapatnam. I won't predict 4-0," he told the Press Trust Bhuvi (Bhuvneshwar Kumar) Jayalalithaa. added. England will be boosted by the likely of India news agency. and Ishant (Sharma), all of Addressing reporters after Cook also received the backing of bats- return of fast bowler Stuart Broad who has The final Test begins in Chennai on them have contributed sig- the senior Tournament Com- man Joe Root who hailed his skipper as a recovered from a strained tendon in his foot. December 16. nificantly," Kumble said. mittee meeting here, BCCI "brilliant leader". India are expected to be able to call upon India (from): Virat Kohli (capt), Murali "And to have some one Secretary Ajay Shirke said "Hopefully, we get these results we want the services of opener Lokesh Rahul who Vijay, Lokesh Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, like them sitting out is a credit yesterday in a statement: in the last two games and we can put right has recovered from the injury that kept him Ajinkya Rahane, Ravichandran Ashwin, to how Umesh and Shami "BCCI condoles the sad what has been quite a frustrating last cou- out of the Mohali Test, according to India Parthiv Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, have bowled. demise of the Tamil Nadu ple of weeks," Root, 25, told reporters last media reports. Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Amit "We keep a track of Chief Minister, Ms. J. Jayala- week. His return threatens the involvement of Mishra, Bhuvenshwar Kumar workload, especially with fast lithaa. BCCI would like to England's chances of salvaging the series Karun Nair who endured a disappointing England (from): Alastair Cook (capt), Joe bowlers. And if we feel we inform that no decision has were dealt a blow however when teenage Test debut in Mohali. Root, Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Ben Stokes, need to pullback on a certain been taken regarding hosting batting sensation Haseeb Hameed was ruled Wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel, who Jonny Bairstow, Adil Rashid, Chris Woakes, player like we have done in of the fifth match of the Test out of the remaining two matches after injur- impressed with both bat and gloves in Mohali Steven Finn, James Anderson, Jake Ball, Gary the past, we will," he 46-year- series against England in ing his hand during the Mohali match. after eight years in the Test wilderness, is Ballance, Gareth Batty, Stuart Broad, Liam old said. Chennai from December 16." The 19-year-old's absence could mean expected to keep his place as Wriddhiman Dawson, Ben Duckett, Keaton Jennings WEDNESDAY 7 DECEMBER 2016 SPORT 29 Bach, Reedie clear air on scandal

Lausanne Sochi Winter Games. The IOC Olympic competitions." The IOC AP and WADA clashed over the Key discussions will also review the result of its summer after the agency recom- There was a very retesting of stored samples from ith another mended that Russia be banned positive atmosphere the 2012 London Olympics and report on Rus- outright from the Rio de Janeiro in our meeting today. 2008 Beijing Games, a pro- sian doping Games. The IOC rejected that We agreed to gramme which has produced looming at the call, instead allowing interna- continue to work about 100 positive cases so far. end of this tional federations to decide Many of the positives have closely: IOC chief W week, the presidents of the IOC which Russians could compete. involved weightlifting and ath- and World Anti-Doping Agency "This was a very construc- letes from former Soviet met yesterday to clear the air tive meeting with a good 'We share a common countries such Belarus, Kaza- over their "perceived differ- atmosphere," Reedie said. "We goal to strengthen khstan and Ukraine — which ences" over the handling of share a common goal to the fight against could face IOC scrutiny for pos- previous evidence of systematic strengthen the fight against dop- doping and to sible warnings or sanctions. cheating in Russia. ing and to protect the clean protect athletes' The executive board will also IOC President Thomas Bach athletes and in this direction we receive reports from organizers and WADA head Craig Reedie will closely cooperate." of the Rio Games, as well as those said they agreed to put aside any The IOC said it was confident director that he helped dope from Pyeongchang and Tokyo. disagreements and "move for- that progress was being made on Russian athletes before the While Rio faced unprecedented ward together" in tackling reforming WADA's governance games and swapped tainted political and financial pressures, doping and protecting clean and setting up an independent samples for clean one through a Pyeongchang and Tokyo are now athletes. drug-testing unit under the agen- concealed hole in the wall at the dealing with their own "There was a very positive cy's umbrella ahead of the 2018 lab. problems. atmosphere in our meeting Winter Games in Pyeongchang, Without knowing the con- Pyeongchang is preparing for today, and I am very happy that South Korea. tents of McLaren's report, the IOC the Winter Games — just 14 any perceived misunderstand- Reedie, an IOC member from board is expected to issue a months away — at a time when ings could be clarified," Bach Britain, was re-elected last statement setting out how it will South Korean President Park said. "We agreed to continue to month to another three-year deal with the new findings — Geunt-hye is facing possible work closely together to term as WADA president. That including the possibility of stiff impeachment in a political scan- strengthen the fight against dop- came after some leading Olym- sanctions. dal centering on allegations that ing under the leadership of pic officials had publicly called The report will be sent to two a long-time friend manipulated International WADA." for a "neutral" president to take commissions that the IOC has set government affairs from behind Olympic The two men met ahead of a over. up to look into the allegations. the scenes. three-day meeting beginning in McLaren's first report, issued Bach said last month that Tokyo, meanwhile, is trying Committee Lausanne, of the International in July, detailed state-backed once the investigations and hear- to reduce costs of the 2020 (IOC) President Olympic Committee executive doping programs and cover-ups ings are completed, the IOC will Olympics after construction costs Thomas Bach board. On Friday in London, in Russia across more than two take "the necessary measures soared to several times their attends an WADA investigator Richard dozen summer and winter Olym- and all the sanctions because if original estimate. The IOC told Executive McLaren will release his latest pic sports. only part of this would be true, Tokyo organizers last week it Board meeting findings on Russian doping, His latest report is expected it would be an unprecedented would not accept a proposed in Lausanne, including evidence of manipu- to focus on Sochi, including alle- attack on the integrity on the budget of up to $20bn and Switzerland. lation of samples at the 2014 gations by the former Russian lab Olympic Games and on the demanded further cuts. Federer, Serena skip IPTL over India cash crunch

New Delhi India and the uncertainty of spending Pakistan's tennis ace Aisam uses AFP money, I reached out to both Roger and Ser- ena to explain the situation," said Bhupathi, ennis stars Roger Federer and Serena but he was ultimately unable to convince off-season time to give back Williams have both pulled out of an them to appear as planned. Lahore Texhibition tournament in India next "They have been both been very sup- Agencies week as a result of the country's cash portive of the IPTL the first two seasons and crunch, organisers said yesterday. we look forward to bring them in future isam-Ul-Haq Qureshi (pictured) continues his support for the Shaukat The two hugely popular former world years." Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, recently visiting number ones had been the big-name draws The tournament was to have marked Athe Children’s Ward to bring a smile to the faces of many youngsters. of the Indian leg of this year's International the comeback of 35-year-old Federer, who Qureshi has been a frequent guest at the hospital over the years and has been Premier Tennis League (IPTL) which is has been sidelined since July with knee instrumental in fund-raising for the hospital’s cancer research and development scheduled to take place in Hyderabad from problems. departments, a report on www.atptour.com said. December 9-11. The government's so-called "demone- “It really does put life into perspective,” said Qureshi. “All it takes is a little But the IPTL said in a statement it was tisation" scheme has caused major cash bit of time to help brighten the lives of these children.” "sad to announce that Roger Federer and shortages across India, with big queues out- “Patients suffering from cancer at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hos- Serena Williams won't participate at this side banks now commonplace after pital and Research Centre don't just need physical and financially supported year's IPTL", citing the "uncertainty" authorities placed a daily limit on treatment, they also need psychological support from all of us as they struggle sparked by the government's decision last withdrawals. between life and death,” said Naila Khan, director of marketing for Shaukat Kha- month to withdraw high-denomination Hyderabad is the third and final leg of num. “Aisam has been a great supporter of the cause and ensures he visits us notes from circulation. this year's IPTL which promotes a short- each time he returns to Pakistan. His support means a lot to us.” "We have had challenges this year, and ened version of the game that organisers Qureshi, who was recently voted Pakistan’s Most Stylish Sportsman, is aware we were hoping to get past them," said say is more television-friendly than the tra- of his responsibility to those less fortunate. “We (ATP players) have such a won- Mahesh Bhupathi, the veteran Indian ten- ditional format. derful life on the Tour,” said Qureshi. “If my status as a professional tennis player nis player who is a founder and managing The first leg was held in Tokyo from can help make a difference for the children and families suffering from this ter- director of the IPTL. December 2-4, while the second leg began rible disease, then please use me as much as you want.” "With the current economic climate in in Singapore yesterday. Chance for golf fans to be part of Qatar Masters

The Peninsula course of 20 years the Commer- experience, and are so grateful cial Bank Qatar Masters has for the work they always do to head of the historic 20th contributed to the growth and help make the tournament such edition of the Commercial development of golf in the Mid- a great success." ABank Qatar Masters in dle East by providing a Richard Millington, Chief January, organisers of the pres- world-class sporting spectacle, Marshall of Volunteers at Com- tigious European Tour golf bringing Qatar’s communities mercial Bank Qatar Masters, tournament are calling on vol- together for a weekend of fam- commented: “I have been vol- unteers from across the GCC to ily fun, and exposing new unteering for many years join their team as they seek to audiences to the sport. alongside people I am now proud make next year’s milestone event And it is the team of dedi- to call my friends. Every year for the most successful yet. cated volunteers that is Commercial Bank Qatar Masters Golf fans now have the responsible for ensuring all areas we need something of the order chance to be part of history by of the event, from on-course of 450 volunteers that represent volunteering at the Commercial action to hospitality and public 25,000 man-hours of volunteer- Bank Qatar Masters. village, run smoothly for the pro- ing. Most of the volunteers that Volunteering is a popular fessionals, VIP guests and apply come from the local com- way to become involved in the thousands of paying spectators munity. I, myself, am a golfer and game of golf and a great way to alike. what I find that the best part meet people and make new “For the past 20 years, the about volunteering is that I get friends who have similar inter- hundreds of volunteers, who are the chance to see best golfers ests to you. passionate about being a part of play a critical role in the tourna- Coordinator for the Commercial television coverage and tourna- play and learn from their game.” It is also an easy way to gain the Commercial Bank Qatar Mas- ment every year, providing Bank Qatar Masters. ment statistics. To apply to be a volunteer at experience - whether that is in ters, have been integral in much-needed support, assist- Volunteer roles vary from Hassan Al Naimi, President the 2017 Commercial Bank Qatar specific roles such as coaching, keeping the tournament running ance, and individual attention marshalls and stewards, to walk- of Qatar Golf Association said: Masters and have the chance to event management and leader- and maintaining the highest of that is crucial for the growth and ing scorers, leaderboard “We look forward to providing experience the spectacular event ship or just by being involved in standards for this world-class, development of the tournament," operators and tee shot measur- our devoted and enthusiastic first-hand, visit qatar-masters. large sporting events. Over the elite sports event. Our volunteers explains Monica Rokk, Volunteer ers for the international volunteers with a memorable com/tournament/. 30 SPORT WEDNESDAY 7 DECEMBER 2016 Porto, Sevilla hunt final knockout berths

Paris round. And the Foxes could well CHAMPIONS LEAGUE game at Metz to be called off Champions League rounding out their fruitless AFP decide which team joins them FIXTURES after just 31 minutes with goal- campaign in Turin. in the knockout phase with keeper Anthony Lopes targeted Dortmund are one Dortmund are one shy of hile Real Copenhagen, third in the group, Today (all 19:45 GMT) by firecrackers thrown by home the 20-goal group stage record Group E shy of the 20-goal Madrid and trailing Porto by two points supporters. -- achieved by three sides Bayer Leverkusen (GER) v Monaco (FRA) group stage record Borussia ahead of a trip to pointless Club The Portugal international including Manchester United's Tottenham Hotspur (ENG) v CSKA Moscow (RUS) achieved by three Dortmund Brugge. was taken to hospital after suf- treble-winning side in 1998-99 Group F sides ahead of their grapple for Porto halted a run of five Legia Warsaw (POL) v Sporting Lisbon (POR) fering "traumatic hearing loss" as well as the Real team that Wtop spot in Group F, twice straight draws courtesy of teen- Real Madrid (ESP) v Borussia Dortmund (GER) in both ears but is expected to visit to Madrid. landed 'La Decima' in 2014 -- former winners Porto and ager Rui Pedro's 95th-minute Group G make a full recovery with no ahead of their visit to the Sevilla look to clinch the two winner over Braga at the week- Club Brugge (BEL) v FC Copenhagen (DEN) lasting damage. Porto will secure Santiago Bernabeu. FC Porto (POR) v Leicester City (ENG) their passage to last remaining spots in the Champi- end, ending a club record run of Group H His status for Wednesday's A draw would send Dort-

ons League last 16 today. 520 minutes without a goal. Juventus (ITA) v Dinamo Zagreb (CRO) fixture is very much in doubt, 16 with victory over mund through as winners of Portuguese giants Porto, Porto will secure their pas- Lyon (FRA) v Sevilla (ESP) but Lyon will draw encourage- Leicester, but Group F, with Real facing pros- European champions in 1987 sage to the last 16 with victory ment knowing Sevilla -- without anything less will pect of a tougher draw unless and 2004, host Leicester City in over Leicester, but anything less with a 1-0 defeat of Randers. manager Jorge Sampaoli due to open the door for 's men come their final group stage match will open the door for Copen- Three-time reigning Europa a touchline ban -- have lost on Copenhagen. away with all three points. wary of FC Copenhagen pipping hagen, who have a League champions Sevilla are all three previous trips to Bayer Leverkusen, con- them to second in Group G. head-to-head advantage over favourites to advance alongside France. firmed as runners-up of Group Despite a woeful defence of the Portuguese on away goals. Juventus in Group H, with Lyon Sevilla's troubles away from Sevilla may welcome back E, host Leonardo Jardim's their Premier League crown, Copenhagen, unbeaten needing to beat the Spaniards home resurfaced in a 2-1 defeat Samir Nasri from injury, while impressive table-topping Leicester are guaranteed to fin- domestically this term, stretched by at least two goals at Parc OL. at Granada over the weekend, Juventus, a point clear at the Monaco, while Tottenham Hot- ish top of their section in Europe their lead in Denmark to 11 Lyon's preparations were with captain Vicente Iborra top, will be expected to cement spur must avoid defeat to CSKA and avoid the likes of Barcelona points on Saturday after secur- overshadowed by the ugly lamenting a sub-par first place with group make- Moscow at Wembley to para- and Atletico Madrid in the next ing an eighth successive win scenes that prompted Saturday's performance. weights Dinamo Zagreb chute into the Europa League.

Tottenham Hotspur players take part in a training session on the eve of their UEFA Champions League match against CSKA Moscow in London, England.

FIFA loses the Manchester City's Fernandinho United have ability to finish (right) fights man who led with Chelsea's in top four, says Guardiola Cesc Fabregas fight against during their Manchester Premier League Reuters match-fixing match at the Etihad Stadium anchester City man- Zurich in Manchester, ager Pep Guardiola Reuters England, on M (pictured)has Saturday. expressed doubts over he man who was lead- whether Manchester United ing FIFA's fight against can challenge for the Pre- T match-fixing has left his mier League title but believes post, soccer's world govern- they have a realistic chance ing body said on Monday. of finishing in the top four. FIFA confirmed that Sixth-placed United have former German police chief been held to draws in six of Ralf Mutschke, who had been their last eight league games, including consecutive 1-1 results their head of security for City and Chelsea players charged by FA against Arsenal, West Ham United and Everton. three and a half years, had Jose Mourinho's men are 13 points behind league lead- departed, without giving any London staff from both teams involved in Later on Monday, West Brom- ers Chelsea, who are on 34 points, three more than Arsenal further details. Reuters ugly scenes. City's Aguero and Fern- wich Albion and Watford were also and four ahead of Liverpool and Manchester City. Mutschke was senior andinho were sent off and will serve charged for failing to control their "Of course, 13 points is a long distance, especially when manager at the German Fed- anchester City and Chelsea four and three-game bans players in Saturday's league game one team is winning games with the quality of Chelsea," eral criminal police office have been charged with respectively. at the Hawthorns, which the hosts Guardiola told reporters. (BKA), where he had more M failing to control their play- "Both Manchester City and Chel- won 3-1. "So it is not easy. But to be in the first four? Of course." than 30 years' experience, ers during Saturday's Premier sea have been charged for failing to In the 84th minute, Watford's "I saw the games against Stoke and Burnley, and other and a former Interpol direc- League match, the FA said on ensure their players conducted them- Roberto Pereyra was sent off after ones at Old Trafford. They deserved by far to win the games tor before being appointed by Monday. selves in an orderly fashion and/or reacting angrily to James McClean's but football is like this. FIFA in June 2012. City striker Sergio Aguero's refrained from provocative behav- challenge, resulting in a touchline "United have the quality, the history, the manager and Mutschke travelled the reckless tackle on Chelsea defender iour," the FA said in a statement. clash involving both sets of players. the players to be there." world as FIFA attempted to David Luiz in stoppage time Leaders Chelsea won the match All the clubs charged by the FA While no one in Premier League history has gone on to clamp down on match-fixing, sparked a melee at the Etihad Sta- 3-1 to move four points clear of have until 18:00 GMT on Decem- win the league with a 13-point deficit, United did overturn which is seen as a major dium, with players and coaching fourth-placed City. ber 8 to respond. a 12-point gap to Newcastle in 1996. threat to the sport. He told Reuters last year that one of his priorities was to help national football asso- ciations set up integrity programmes to combat the Blatter loses appeal against ban threat of match-fixing. For its own competitions, he said that FIFA monitored betting patterns, placed integ- Lausanne after several dozen football officials, Both men denied wrongdoing rity managers in stadiums Reuters including FIFA executive commit- and Blatter said the payment and briefed teams and offi- tee members and former members, related to a verbal agreement. cials on the threat. ormer FIFA president Sepp had been indicted in the United CAS said in a statement that its Match-fixing is usually Blatter has lost his appeal States on graft charges, along with three-man panel had determined instigated by criminal gangs Fagainst a six-year ban for two sports marketing firms. that Blatter "breached the FIFA who bribe players or referees ethics violations, imposed amid The 80-year-old Swiss was not code of ethics since the payment to manipulate a game and the biggest corruption scandal to among those indicted, but became amounted to an undue gift as it had make thousands or millions shake the world soccer body, the embroiled in scandal when he was no contractual basis". of dollars by betting on the Court of Arbitration for Sport banned from all football-related "The Panel further found that Mr outcome. (CAS) said on Monday. activity the following December Blatter unlawfully awarded contri- Dozens of players have CAS ruled that Blatter had by FIFA's Ethics Committee along butions to Mr Platini under the FIFA been banned around the authorised payments to Michel with Platini, then president of the Executive Committee retirement world over the last few years, Platini, then the European football European soccer body UEFA. scheme which also amounted to an but criminal convictions for boss, worth over $2m that amounted The men were banned, initially undue gift." those who set up the fixes to "undue gifts" and therefore vio- for eight years, over a payment of Swiss prosecutors are now have been rare. lated FIFA's code of ethics. Blatter, $1.98m that FIFA made to Platini investigating Blatter on suspicion Last year, Interpol called who led FIFA for 17 years, told Reu- in 2011, with Blatter's approval, for of criminal mismanagement and off an agreement with FIFA ters in a telephone interview that he work done a decade earlier. The misappropriation of funds over the after the worst corruption was "disappointed but not bans were reduced to six years by payment, which they describe as scandal in the global soccer shattered". FIFA's appeals committee in "disloyal", though he has not been body's history in which 42 He resigned in June last year February. charged. people and entities were Sepp Blatter indicted in the United States. WEDNESDAY 7 DECEMBER 2016 SPORT 31 Lekhwiya defeat El Jaish to Al Rayyan, Al Sadd meet close gap, Al Sailiyah win in Qatar Clasico The Peninsula The Peninsula WEEK 10 atar Stars League's defending cham- ekhwiya cut down pions Al Rayyan will take on arch rivals Yesterday's results El Jaish’s lead at Q Al Sadd in a much awaited Clasico at the top of the Al Kharaitiyat 1-1 Al Ahli the Al Sadd Stadium today. The game will Qatar Stars Al Sailiyah 1 -0 Muaither SC kick off at 6.10pm. League points Al Shahaniya 1-2 Al Arabi In a game which sees two of the equally Ltable with a narrow 2-1 win promising teams in action with a number of over their rivals in a top of El Jaish 1 - 2 Lekhwiya big names playing, Al Rayyan will be look- the table game yesterday. Today's fixtures ing to bounce back into action, having The first half saw few Umm Salal vs Al Gharafa suffered their first defeat of the season and chances exchanges, but at Qatar Club (4.00pm) slipped to fifth in the table. opened up in the second The two sides met on eight occasions half. Two deflected goals Al Khor vs Al Wakrah since the 2011/2012 season. at Al Khor Club (4.00pm) gave Lekhwiya the win, in During the eight matches, Al Rayyan have what will be a tough result Al Rayyan vs Al Sadd won twice while Al Sadd have won on three to take for Sabri at Al Sadd Club (6.10pm) occasions. The sides have also drawn on Lamouchi three occasions. The first half was a Michael Laudrup, the head coach of Al cagey affair with both sides Rayyan, knows the importance of this game sizing each other up in the and what it means to the players. opening exchanges. Lekhh- “It’s a different game, it’s the Clasico and wiya registered their first all over the world there are matches like this. chance of the tie with Everybody wants to see this game and both twenty minutes on the Action from the Qatar Stars League match between Al Sailiyah sides want to get the three points. It will be clock. Winger Ismael Club and Muaither at Al Ahli Stadium yesterday. Al Sailiyah a game in which small things will decide who Mohammed picked out Ali won 1-0. Picture by Abdul Basit / The Peninsula wins because both teams are on a good Afif, however his curled level,” the coach said. effort flew just wide. Speaking about the match fitness of Vic- Djamel Belmadi’s side well-coordinated move by tor Caceres, Laudrup added, “He was a very slowly begun to ramp up El Jaish lose Cameroonian import Paul important player for us but he is injured for the pressure on their table Alo'o Efoulou. this whole season and we are sorry for him The 2-1 loss topping rivals and began to The 33-year-old striker Al Arabi crush but this is part of football. He is now back in dominate the play as the means that El hoodwinked Muaither training and we hope he can join us later in first half progressed. The Jaish’s lead at the defenders Huthaifa Al the season. When he comes back we need closest Lekhwiya came to top of the QSL Salemi and Saeed Eisa to give him time to get him back to his best. a goal in the opening half standings has now before slotting the ball past But I think he will be back to his best before been cut down to Al Shahaniya fell on the thirty third goalkeeper Basel Zaidan AFC Champions league starts in minute. The lively Moham- one point, with but the shot narrowly February.” med Ismael was denied on Lekhwiya hot on missed the goalpost. Al Sadd are undefeated in the league so the line by Jaish defender the heels of their In the 34th minute, Al The Peninsula and the ball at Ezekiel's feet, far this season and are currently third in the Lucas Mendes who put his rivals. Sailiyah grabbed the lead the linesman quickly declared table. The Wolves will look to continue their body on the line to deny through Al Korbi. Mubark atar Stars League (QSL) the move off-side. In the 22nd good form against their biggest rivals Al Lekhwiya the opening goal. Al Saadi produced a cross outfit Al Arabi yesterday minute, Al Shahaniya's Gourmi Rayyan. The second half was pinballed off two Jaish from the flank only to see a Q eased to a convincing 2-1 Kaled - who picked up a neat “We are ready for all the games and the again a tight affair, however defenders and found its team-mate's header win over minnows Al Sha- header from Mohamed Tiaiba players know the importance of this game. Lekhwiya fortuitously took way into the back of the net blocked by Muaither goal- haniya as hosts delighted home - hoodwinked one defender We expect a reaction from Al Rayyan after the lead with the game on the rebound. keeper Gomis. fans at Grand Hamad before smashing the ball their loss against Gharafa. We will continue heading into the final Earlier, Al Sailiyah were However, the lose ball Stadium. towards Al Arabi goalmouth. our preparation until the match and we have twenty minutes. Substitute thoroughly tested by new- lobbed in front of Al Korbi Luis Antonio Jimenez (48) But Al Arabi goalkeeper no absences." Yusef Msakni was picked comers Muaither as the who headed home with and Imoh Ezekiel (72) scored Rajab Kassim stopped the low- "It will be a different atmosphere from out on the right hand side. men in blue won a hard- consummate ease in the the second-half goals for Al range shot by thrusting his all the other games and we are looking for- The Tunisian international fought clash (1-0) at Khalifa 34th minute. In the 72nd Arabi who dominated the pro- right leg to kill the move. ward to it,” the assistant coach of Al Sadd unleashed a shot from the Bin Abdullah Stadium. minute, Muaither's Mah- ceedings on home soil. Minutes later Al Shahani- Hisham Zahid said. left hand side which Al Sailiyah's Sayaf moud Zatara attempted a Al Shahaniya's Fahad Kha- ya's Al Hamad was also denied At Qatar SC Stadium, Al Gharafa, buoyed bounced of Lucas Mendes Mohsin Al Korbi produced bicycle shot in front of the lfan reduced the deficit in the by Al Arabi goalkeeper Kassim by their last win against Al Rayyan, will be and into the back of the net. the only goal of the match Al Sailiyah goalmouth but 90th minute after Al Arabi who charged out of his spot looking for full points against Umm Salal. Jaish didn't waste any in the 34th minute of the he failed to deflect the ball goalkeeper Kassim failed to and produced a diving stop in The Cheetahs have won their last four time and promptly found round 10 clash in the Qatar into the net. collect an easy ball. the 25th minute. In injury time, games and are fourth in the table. They will their way back into the tie Stars League (QSL). Two minutes later, In the first serious attempt Jimenez fired a bullet from the be looking to continue the momentum two minutes later. Star Muaither's Ayoub Oua- Muaither's Al Salemi wasted at goal, national team player edge of the box but his shot against Umm Salal. Umm Salal have had a striker Romarinho struck drassi missed two easy an open-goal chance when Boualem Khoukhi - skipper of sailed above the crossbar as mixed run of fortunes in their last few games his eleventh goal of the sea- chances in the first 7 min- he ended up touching the Al Arabi - opted for a long- both teams walked off the as they sit sixth in the table two places behind son, the QSL player of the utes, both from close range ball with his hand in an range shot that was punched Grand Hamad Stadium pitch their opponents. The Orange Fortress will month for November shots that were expertly attempt to deflect a header by Al Shahaniya goalkeeper with no scores to show for. be looking to provide a strong performance skipped by a static Chico blocked by Al Sailiyah goal- from close range. Khalifa Al Dosari. Early in the second half, Al against an inform Al Gharafa side. Flores and drilled a low shot keeper Gregory Gomis. In the 84th minute, a Three minutes later, refe- Arabi grabbed the lead off a Meanwhile, Al Khor will take on Al Wak- into the back of the net to Minutes later Muaither's missed chance by Ayoub ree Abdulla Ali Athba slapped corner kick. Jimenez jumped rah in a must-win match for both teams who pull Sabri Lamouchi’s side Brazilian midfielder Wil- Ouadrassi from close range Al Arabi's Rami Shamalah with over Abdulla Khalid and pro- are contenders for the drop come the end of back into the game. liam Schuster raced summed up the day for a yellow card infringement duced a snap-header to deflect the season. The once tight and towards the Al Sailiyah goal Muaither who otherwise after the latter slammed his the ball past goalkeeper Al- The match will take place at the Al Khor tetchy game opened out but with only goalkeeper to produced sustained attacks boot in the chest of Mesaad Ali Dosari for his side's first goal Stadium this evening. with both sides looking for beat, he misfired as the ball in the second half. Al-Hamad who went down in the 48th minute. After a good start to the season, Al Khor the vital win. Fortune ricocheted off the legs of It was Al Sailiyah's only instantly. A couple of minutes In the 72nd minute, Al are struggling for form as they lost their last favoured Lekhwiya and 'keeper Gomis in the 10th second win of the season on, Al Arabi's Jimenez picked Arabi doubled their lead three matches. The Knights are in tenth place they grabbed a winner on minute. Seconds later, Al though Muaither managed out Ezekiel inside the Al Sha- through Ezekiel who easily just above the drop zone and will be look- the eightieth minute. Sub- Sailiyah - coached by Sami 55 percent of ball posses- haniya box. With only the beat 'keeper Al Dosari follow- ing to get the win against Al Wakrah. stitute Moez Ali shot Trabelsi - produced a sion on Tuesday. goalkeeper Al-Dosari to beat ing a goal-line melee.

Action from the Olatunbo shines in Al Wakrah win Qatar Basketball League matches at The Peninsula quarter they trailed by one Al Gharafa Indoor point, 15-14. Stadium yesterday. l Wakrah, helped by The tussle for suprem- Pictures by Kamutty VP/ a top notch perform- acy continued in the The Peninsula Aance by Ayeni second one, with the teams Olatunbo registered 78-69 tied at 35-all. win over Al Shamal in the In the third quarter, Al Qatar Basketball League. Wakrah managed to break Yesterday at the Al free to gain a point’s Gharafa Indoor Stadium, advantage over their rivals, Olatunbo scored 27 points 56-55. to give coach Ehab Galal’s In the final session of team a fighting victory. the match, Al Wakrah stood Williams Larry played their ground and scored a perfect foil to Olatunbo crucial points to keep the netting 23 baskets, helping lead. In the end, Al Wakrah in the winning cause. away with a nine-point Saleem Mohammed, win. turned out to be Al Wak- For Al Shamal, Muftah rah’s other significant Johar, top scored with 28 performer scoring ten points while Watson Boney points for the winners. and Saleh Elhag Ali carded Al Wakrah did not have a score of 14 and 10 points the best of starts, in the first against their names.