LONDON: David Beckham's grandfather died on Wednesday, his agent said, but the England midfielder is expected to stay in South Africa where he is helping sell England's bid for the 2018 World Cup.
"His grandfather passed away this morning, but we ask everyone to respect the family's privacy at this time," his spokesman Simon Oliveira said.
Joseph West, 83, who died after battling a serious illness, was very close to Beckham and is credited with having had a formative influence on the star player's early career, reports said.
A friend of the player said that unless the funeral takes place in the next couple of days, Beckham is expected to continue his schedule in South Africa.
"His grandfather would have wanted him to continue to fulfil his duty to his country," the friend said.
Beckham is the key in selling England's struggling bid for the 2018 World Cup, Fifa president Sepp Blatter said on Wednesday.
Blatter met Beckham in Cape Town ahead of England's presentation this week of its bid credentials to the world's media and football's powerbrokers.
Beckham, who hopes to be in Fabio Capello's squad for the 2010 World Cup, has taken on the role of official ambassador for England's bid in an attempt to convince Fifa executives to award them a first World Cup since 1966.
Beckham, one of the few players to score in three World Cups, will take part in today's draw for next year's competition. -- AFP
Friday, December 4, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Champions League 2009-10 season: Rangers must beat Stuttgart for fans
GLASGOW: Steven Davis says Rangers owe their fans a performance against Stuttgart at Ibrox today (early tomorrow in Malaysia) after their two previous Champions League Group G home games ended in misery.
The Old Firm side have suffered two heavy losses at Ibrox already this season with both Romania minnows Unirea Urziceni and Sevilla sending them crashing to 4-1 defeats.
Rangers sit bottom of Group G with two points but are just one behind Stuttgart and three behind Unirea as they bid to qualify for the last 16 of the competition.
The match against the Bundesliga cracks is a must win game for Rangers if they are to have any chance of finishing second behind runaway group leaders Sevilla.
And Northern Irish midfielder Davis is desperate to keep their campaign alive after losing a last-gasp goal in the 1-1 draw with Unirea last time out.
"That has made us more determined to win on Tuesday (today)," Davis said.
WALTER SMITH
"The performance was great and to concede so late was harsh. We need to see games through at this level.
"We owe it to the supporters, to the management and ourselves to get a performance and result against Stuttgart."
Stuttgart have had a poor start to their season, sitting just one point above the relegation zone in the Bundesliga.
But Rangers gaffer Walter Smith says he won't be fooled by the German side's stuttering form after he watched them recover from a similar situation last year.
Rangers picked up a valuable point against Markus Babbel's side in their first group match and both sides are still in with a chance of qualifying.
But despite their poor form Stuttgart managed a draw at Sevilla a fortnight ago and Smith expects them to provide another huge test for his side.
Smith said: "Stuttgart had a bad start to last season which led to a change in coach. But then they went on a bit of a run and fought back.
"They were in with a shout of the title but finished third after losing their final game to Bayern.
"Stuttgart are a good side and their form will eventually settle down -- hopefully not by Tuesday (today)". -- AFP
Friday, November 13, 2009
EPL 2009-10 season: Fergie gets touchline ban
LONDON: Sir Alex Ferguson was given a four-match touchline ban for improper conduct by the Football Association (FA) yesterday following an outspoken attack on referee Alan Wiley.
The Manchester United manager, who admitted an FA charge of improper conduct, publicly labelled Wiley as "unfit" after his Premier League champions were held to a 2-2 draw by Sunderland at Old Trafford on Oct 3.
But yesterday he was banned for four games, of which two are suspended until the end of the 2010/11 season, fined STG20,000 (RM111,600) and warned as to his future conduct following his "grossly improper and wholly inappropriate" comments about Wiley.
Peter Griffiths, chairman of the regulatory commission which decided Ferguson's punishment, said after yesterday's hearing: "Each member of the commission recognised Sir Alex Ferguson's achievements and stature within the game.
"Having said that, it was made clear to Sir Alex that with such stature comes increased responsibilities.
"The commission considered his admitted remarks, in the context in which they were made, were not just improper but were grossly improper and wholly inappropriate. He should never have said what he did say."
ALEX FERGUSON
Ferguson, who will receive the commission's full findings today, has the right of appeal.
The commission said the suspended sanction would be automatically activated should Ferguson be found guilty of a similar charge before the end of the 2010/11 season on top of any sanction imposed for that offence.
Ferguson accused Wiley of not being "fit enough for a game of that standard" and of "walking up the pitch for the second goal needing a rest". The 67-year-old Scot has since apologised to Wiley.
Ferguson issued his apology on United's website following comments his remarks had undermined the FA's 'Respect' campaign, designed to encourage better behaviour towards referees at all all levels of the game.
"I apologise to Mr Wiley for any personal embarrassment that my remarks may have caused and to the FA for going public with my views," Ferguson said at the time.
"My only intention in speaking publicly was to highlight what I believe to be a serious and important issue in the game, namely that the fitness levels of referees must match the ever-increasing demands of the modern game, which I hope will now be properly addressed through the appropriate formal channels."
Following his side's 2-0 defeat to Liverpool last month, Ferguson questioned whether Andre Marriner, who took charge of the game at Anfield, had the required experience for a match of such significance.
He also accused Martin Atkinson of being in an "absolutely ridiculous" position when he awarded Chelsea the free-kick that led to their winner against United at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. -- AFP
The Manchester United manager, who admitted an FA charge of improper conduct, publicly labelled Wiley as "unfit" after his Premier League champions were held to a 2-2 draw by Sunderland at Old Trafford on Oct 3.
But yesterday he was banned for four games, of which two are suspended until the end of the 2010/11 season, fined STG20,000 (RM111,600) and warned as to his future conduct following his "grossly improper and wholly inappropriate" comments about Wiley.
Peter Griffiths, chairman of the regulatory commission which decided Ferguson's punishment, said after yesterday's hearing: "Each member of the commission recognised Sir Alex Ferguson's achievements and stature within the game.
"Having said that, it was made clear to Sir Alex that with such stature comes increased responsibilities.
"The commission considered his admitted remarks, in the context in which they were made, were not just improper but were grossly improper and wholly inappropriate. He should never have said what he did say."
ALEX FERGUSON
Ferguson, who will receive the commission's full findings today, has the right of appeal.
The commission said the suspended sanction would be automatically activated should Ferguson be found guilty of a similar charge before the end of the 2010/11 season on top of any sanction imposed for that offence.
Ferguson accused Wiley of not being "fit enough for a game of that standard" and of "walking up the pitch for the second goal needing a rest". The 67-year-old Scot has since apologised to Wiley.
Ferguson issued his apology on United's website following comments his remarks had undermined the FA's 'Respect' campaign, designed to encourage better behaviour towards referees at all all levels of the game.
"I apologise to Mr Wiley for any personal embarrassment that my remarks may have caused and to the FA for going public with my views," Ferguson said at the time.
"My only intention in speaking publicly was to highlight what I believe to be a serious and important issue in the game, namely that the fitness levels of referees must match the ever-increasing demands of the modern game, which I hope will now be properly addressed through the appropriate formal channels."
Following his side's 2-0 defeat to Liverpool last month, Ferguson questioned whether Andre Marriner, who took charge of the game at Anfield, had the required experience for a match of such significance.
He also accused Martin Atkinson of being in an "absolutely ridiculous" position when he awarded Chelsea the free-kick that led to their winner against United at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. -- AFP
Monday, November 9, 2009
Kelantan fans do no favours for team
WAR zone-like conditions created by Kelantan fans had the reverse effect on their team as they succumbed meekly to Negri Sembilan 3-1 in the Malaysia Cup final on Saturday.
Far from being the inspiration force which had helped sweep Kelantan into their first Malaysia Cup final in 39 years, the supporters did their team no favours with their rancorous behaviour despite filling out two-thirds of the stadium.
The player most affected was leftback Zamri Ramli, the youngest player in the team, whose two costly errors led to two of Negri's three goals. But coach B. Sathianathan, who indicated he may stay on for his first full season in domestic football, refused to blame the crowd for Kelantan's uninspired display.
"I don't see why there should be pressure on the team because they are used to playing in front of this kind of crowd in Kota Baru.
"It has more to do with the inexperience of playing in a final which led to giving away silly goals. After the second goal went in so early (in the second half), heads dropped and they looked short on confidence," said Sathianathan, who steered Kelantan to the final despite taking over the team from Peter Butler just days before the tournament started.
Except for Indra Putra Mahayuddin, who ended the Malaysia Cup as top scorer with 11 goals, Khalid Jamlus and Ahmad Azlan Zainal, none of the Kelantan squad had experience playing in a Malaysia Cup final.
Sathianathan praised his players instead for the way they coped with adversity following their troubled start to the campaign.
"Nobody gave us a chance to even make the final and when I took over the team the target was to get to the quarter-finals. The fitness level of the players shocked me when I came in and I realised what a big task it would be.
"They were down in spirit after their coach abandoned them just days before an important tournament and to have made the final was a fantastic achievement for them," he said.
Sathianathan spoke about strengthening the team with two or three additional signings but when asked if he will be staying on, he said: "If they still want me."
"It's pleasure to work in Kelantan, it is a really nice place. We have a 14-day break but we don't know when the season starts again. We need to be informed if we are to prepare properly," added the coach.
"Next season, we will be back stronger and I'm confident the team will sign two or three more players with experience." -- DEVINDER SINGH
Far from being the inspiration force which had helped sweep Kelantan into their first Malaysia Cup final in 39 years, the supporters did their team no favours with their rancorous behaviour despite filling out two-thirds of the stadium.
The player most affected was leftback Zamri Ramli, the youngest player in the team, whose two costly errors led to two of Negri's three goals. But coach B. Sathianathan, who indicated he may stay on for his first full season in domestic football, refused to blame the crowd for Kelantan's uninspired display.
"I don't see why there should be pressure on the team because they are used to playing in front of this kind of crowd in Kota Baru.
"It has more to do with the inexperience of playing in a final which led to giving away silly goals. After the second goal went in so early (in the second half), heads dropped and they looked short on confidence," said Sathianathan, who steered Kelantan to the final despite taking over the team from Peter Butler just days before the tournament started.
Except for Indra Putra Mahayuddin, who ended the Malaysia Cup as top scorer with 11 goals, Khalid Jamlus and Ahmad Azlan Zainal, none of the Kelantan squad had experience playing in a Malaysia Cup final.
Sathianathan praised his players instead for the way they coped with adversity following their troubled start to the campaign.
"Nobody gave us a chance to even make the final and when I took over the team the target was to get to the quarter-finals. The fitness level of the players shocked me when I came in and I realised what a big task it would be.
"They were down in spirit after their coach abandoned them just days before an important tournament and to have made the final was a fantastic achievement for them," he said.
Sathianathan spoke about strengthening the team with two or three additional signings but when asked if he will be staying on, he said: "If they still want me."
"It's pleasure to work in Kelantan, it is a really nice place. We have a 14-day break but we don't know when the season starts again. We need to be informed if we are to prepare properly," added the coach.
"Next season, we will be back stronger and I'm confident the team will sign two or three more players with experience." -- DEVINDER SINGH
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Aidil plays down favourites' tag
AIDIL Zafuan Radzak does not believe Negri Sembilan's 10-match winning run in the Malaysia Cup makes them favourites for Saturday's final against Kelantan at the National Stadium.
The Negri defender thinks his team enter the final as the underdogs, given the blaze of publicity directed towards Kelantan for making their first final after 39 years, a view shared by Selangor coach K. Devan.
The 22-year-old Aidil, who will be making his first appearance in the final, said the underdog tag will ease pressure on his team despite their perfect record in the tournament to date.
"People talk of us having won all of our games but that means nothing when we play in the final. Statistics don't make us champions," said Aidil after being voted the best defender at the 100Plus-FAM National Football Awards in Petaling Jaya yesterday.
"I don't think it puts any pressure on us at all because everyone has been talking about Kelantan winning their first Malaysia Cup. In fact, I'm happy with that because it makes us the underdogs."
But Aidil does believe that Negri have what it takes to lift the Malaysia Cup for the first time since 1948, when it was still known as the Malaya Cup.
FA of Malaysia deputy president Khairy Jamaluddin presents the best defender award to Negri Sembilan’s Aidil Zafuan Radzak at the National Football Awards in Petaling Jaya yesterday.
"I think the advantage we have is that there is a good mix of experience and youth in the team.
"You look at the defence, there is Shukor Adan with me, Idris Kadir and Rezal (Zambery Yahya) in midfield and Hairuddin Omar playing alongside my brother (Zaquan Adha) in attack.
"There is a good balance in the team although I think whoever performs better on the night will win," said the national Under-23 skipper.
There is a sub-plot to the final as Kelantan's Indra Putra Mahayuddin and Zaquan chase the top scorer honour in the Malaysia Cup with Indra leading the way on 10 goals to Zaquan's nine.
But Aidil feels that Zaquan could well become the match winner as he gave an inkling into the telepathy that twins are said to possess.
"In a final, just one goal will be enough. Kelantan have the experienced Indra Putra (Mahayuddin) to rely on but if Zaquan uses his skills and maturity to good effect, he will make Kelantan pay," said Aidil.
Devan, who took Negri to the Malaysia Cup final in 2006, thinks Kelantan fans will be celebrating their first major trophy with Indra, voted the country's most valuable player at the awards, leading the charge.
"I think Kelantan hold the edge over Negri as they have proven match winners in Indra and Norfarhan Mohammad.
" They also have a better pattern of play and are more attack minded," said Devan, who was handed the best coach award.
But there is an added motivation that Aidil believes will drive Negri on.
"We desperately want to realise our dream of becoming Malaysia Cup champions as it will be a perfect gift for Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir for his installation as the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan," added Aidil.
The Negri defender thinks his team enter the final as the underdogs, given the blaze of publicity directed towards Kelantan for making their first final after 39 years, a view shared by Selangor coach K. Devan.
The 22-year-old Aidil, who will be making his first appearance in the final, said the underdog tag will ease pressure on his team despite their perfect record in the tournament to date.
"People talk of us having won all of our games but that means nothing when we play in the final. Statistics don't make us champions," said Aidil after being voted the best defender at the 100Plus-FAM National Football Awards in Petaling Jaya yesterday.
"I don't think it puts any pressure on us at all because everyone has been talking about Kelantan winning their first Malaysia Cup. In fact, I'm happy with that because it makes us the underdogs."
But Aidil does believe that Negri have what it takes to lift the Malaysia Cup for the first time since 1948, when it was still known as the Malaya Cup.
FA of Malaysia deputy president Khairy Jamaluddin presents the best defender award to Negri Sembilan’s Aidil Zafuan Radzak at the National Football Awards in Petaling Jaya yesterday.
"I think the advantage we have is that there is a good mix of experience and youth in the team.
"You look at the defence, there is Shukor Adan with me, Idris Kadir and Rezal (Zambery Yahya) in midfield and Hairuddin Omar playing alongside my brother (Zaquan Adha) in attack.
"There is a good balance in the team although I think whoever performs better on the night will win," said the national Under-23 skipper.
There is a sub-plot to the final as Kelantan's Indra Putra Mahayuddin and Zaquan chase the top scorer honour in the Malaysia Cup with Indra leading the way on 10 goals to Zaquan's nine.
But Aidil feels that Zaquan could well become the match winner as he gave an inkling into the telepathy that twins are said to possess.
"In a final, just one goal will be enough. Kelantan have the experienced Indra Putra (Mahayuddin) to rely on but if Zaquan uses his skills and maturity to good effect, he will make Kelantan pay," said Aidil.
Devan, who took Negri to the Malaysia Cup final in 2006, thinks Kelantan fans will be celebrating their first major trophy with Indra, voted the country's most valuable player at the awards, leading the charge.
"I think Kelantan hold the edge over Negri as they have proven match winners in Indra and Norfarhan Mohammad.
" They also have a better pattern of play and are more attack minded," said Devan, who was handed the best coach award.
But there is an added motivation that Aidil believes will drive Negri on.
"We desperately want to realise our dream of becoming Malaysia Cup champions as it will be a perfect gift for Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir for his installation as the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan," added Aidil.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Pressure keeps Nicol in winning mode
NICOL David has a clear run at closing out her season on a high at her final two tournaments of the year next month as she described how she handles the pressure to keep her winning momentum going.
As the accolades keep pouring in for the four-time world champion, Nicol said the ceaseless pressure to keep winning will not detract her from going for her eighth and ninth Wispa Tour titles in November.
The latest honour bestowed on Nicol was the naming of the National Squash Centre main court in Bukit Jalil after her in acknowledgement of her stunning achievements over the last five years which put Malaysia firmly on the sporting map.
"There is always pressure (to win) whether you like it or not. You've got to work hard and if you put the effort in on the court, it will work out. If not, you learn from it and step up a notch the next time but I've got to believe in what I can do," said Nicol after the unveiling of the Nicol David Arena at the National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil on Tuesday.
Fresh from winning a fourth consecutive Hong Kong Open title on Sunday, Nicol will be in action at the Carol Weymuller Open in New York on Nov 3-8, a tournament she has not played since 2005.
The top seed can expect former world champion Vanessa Atkinson of the Netherlands and England's Jenny Duncalf to be her main threat to an expected final meeting with British Open winner Rachael Grinham of Australia.
But the Qatar Classic in Doha on Nov 19-23 will be a tougher proposition for Nicol where she could meet Rachael or Egypt's Omneya Abdel Kawy in the semi-finals and Dutch World No 2 Natalie Grinham in the final.
Before that there is the danger posed by England's Laura Massaro, who ran the world champion close in their last two meetings, in the quarter-finals.
The country's top men's duo of Azlan Iskandar and Ong Beng Hee too have a loaded November to deal with which begins with the World Open in Kuwait.
After his impressive run to the quarter-finals of the Hong Kong Open, Azlan is set to carry his form over to Kuwait on Nov 1-7 where he is slated to meet Egypt's Amr Shabana in the third round.
Shabana toppled compatriot and World No 1 Karim Darwish en route to the Hong Kong title last week and will present 12th seed Azlan a stiff test of his credentials.
Beng Hee, seeded 13th, was unfortunate to be drawn to face second seed Gregory Gaultier in the third round although the Frenchman's fitness remains suspect after being forced to withdraw from the Hong Kong Open final due to a knee injury.
Azlan and Beng Hee should come through the first two rounds while national No 3 Nafiizwan Adnan could spring a surprise when he comes up against world junior champion Mohamed El Shorbagy of Egypt in the first round.
Beng Hee will also be in action in Doha where he meets ninth seed Peter Barker of England in the first round while Azlan is entered in the Dutch Open in Rotterdam the following week
As the accolades keep pouring in for the four-time world champion, Nicol said the ceaseless pressure to keep winning will not detract her from going for her eighth and ninth Wispa Tour titles in November.
The latest honour bestowed on Nicol was the naming of the National Squash Centre main court in Bukit Jalil after her in acknowledgement of her stunning achievements over the last five years which put Malaysia firmly on the sporting map.
"There is always pressure (to win) whether you like it or not. You've got to work hard and if you put the effort in on the court, it will work out. If not, you learn from it and step up a notch the next time but I've got to believe in what I can do," said Nicol after the unveiling of the Nicol David Arena at the National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil on Tuesday.
Fresh from winning a fourth consecutive Hong Kong Open title on Sunday, Nicol will be in action at the Carol Weymuller Open in New York on Nov 3-8, a tournament she has not played since 2005.
The top seed can expect former world champion Vanessa Atkinson of the Netherlands and England's Jenny Duncalf to be her main threat to an expected final meeting with British Open winner Rachael Grinham of Australia.
But the Qatar Classic in Doha on Nov 19-23 will be a tougher proposition for Nicol where she could meet Rachael or Egypt's Omneya Abdel Kawy in the semi-finals and Dutch World No 2 Natalie Grinham in the final.
Before that there is the danger posed by England's Laura Massaro, who ran the world champion close in their last two meetings, in the quarter-finals.
The country's top men's duo of Azlan Iskandar and Ong Beng Hee too have a loaded November to deal with which begins with the World Open in Kuwait.
After his impressive run to the quarter-finals of the Hong Kong Open, Azlan is set to carry his form over to Kuwait on Nov 1-7 where he is slated to meet Egypt's Amr Shabana in the third round.
Shabana toppled compatriot and World No 1 Karim Darwish en route to the Hong Kong title last week and will present 12th seed Azlan a stiff test of his credentials.
Beng Hee, seeded 13th, was unfortunate to be drawn to face second seed Gregory Gaultier in the third round although the Frenchman's fitness remains suspect after being forced to withdraw from the Hong Kong Open final due to a knee injury.
Azlan and Beng Hee should come through the first two rounds while national No 3 Nafiizwan Adnan could spring a surprise when he comes up against world junior champion Mohamed El Shorbagy of Egypt in the first round.
Beng Hee will also be in action in Doha where he meets ninth seed Peter Barker of England in the first round while Azlan is entered in the Dutch Open in Rotterdam the following week
Thursday, October 15, 2009
F1: Fairuz has a bright chance of landing spot
FAIRUZ Fauzy is on the list but he is not a certainty to make his Formula One race debut with the 1Malaysia-Lotus F1 Team next season. The 27-year-old Malaysian, according to 1Malaysia-Lotus F1 Team technical director Mike Gascoyne, is among those being considered, although he would prefer to have two experienced drivers doing the job in the team's first season.
What seems at the very least a near certainty for Fairuz is a test drive seat with the team next season.
Fairuz, who next weekend challenges for his best ever finish in the Formula 3.5 World Series by Renault at Motorland Aragon in Spain, does have the benefit of having worked briefly with Gascoyne during his time as test driver for the Spyker F1 Team in 2007.
So does the name linked closely to Gascoyne, current Toyota driver Jarno Trulli, who has a close relationship with the much traveled technical director.
The team's first ever driver line-up is set to be announced next month and Gascoyne, who is currently in Kuala Lumpur, remains tight-lipped over the matter.
"You have to look at what's best for the team. Ultimately, you'd want to have two experienced drivers. Because as a new team, with two new drivers, you would not know where you are," said Gascoyne.
"We have to see. In Fairuz Fauzy you've got a very, very good racing driver. But he's in a bunch of GP2 drivers who are all ready for F1," added Gascoyne.
"I'm sure that we'll have a Malaysian driving the car at some stage next year in testing, but will he have a race seat? That we have to wait and see. It is a possibility, but we're very realistic.
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"We want the best people in it. So, we want a Malaysian in it, when he's capable of being the with the best. If we don't adopt that approach, we will be the team at the back."
What seems at the very least a near certainty for Fairuz is a test drive seat with the team next season.
Fairuz, who next weekend challenges for his best ever finish in the Formula 3.5 World Series by Renault at Motorland Aragon in Spain, does have the benefit of having worked briefly with Gascoyne during his time as test driver for the Spyker F1 Team in 2007.
So does the name linked closely to Gascoyne, current Toyota driver Jarno Trulli, who has a close relationship with the much traveled technical director.
The team's first ever driver line-up is set to be announced next month and Gascoyne, who is currently in Kuala Lumpur, remains tight-lipped over the matter.
"You have to look at what's best for the team. Ultimately, you'd want to have two experienced drivers. Because as a new team, with two new drivers, you would not know where you are," said Gascoyne.
"We have to see. In Fairuz Fauzy you've got a very, very good racing driver. But he's in a bunch of GP2 drivers who are all ready for F1," added Gascoyne.
"I'm sure that we'll have a Malaysian driving the car at some stage next year in testing, but will he have a race seat? That we have to wait and see. It is a possibility, but we're very realistic.
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"We want the best people in it. So, we want a Malaysian in it, when he's capable of being the with the best. If we don't adopt that approach, we will be the team at the back."
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
EPL 2009-10 Season: Rafa: Reds are still in the race for title
LONDON: Rafael Benitez refused to write off Liverpool's chances of winning the Premier League this season despite watching his side fall six points behind leaders Chelsea after a 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge.
Goals from Nicolas Anelka and Florent Malouda condemned the Reds to their third defeat of the season and left them languishing in fifth place.
Three league losses is one more than Liverpool suffered over the whole of last season and Benitez's team looked anything but championship quality on Sunday as Chelsea overpowered them in the second half.
However, Benitez is staying upbeat about their title prospects.
"Our target now has to be the next game. Every game is important. We have to keep calm and working hard," he said.
"This year the top sides will lose games but you have to try to improve and we will try to win against Sunderland next.
"When the teams at the top of the table drop points and you win, it is better, but we have to keep winning games and stay as strong as possible and see what happens.
"It is my opinion you will see top sides losing more games this season. It is good for the Premier League and it means we have to keep calm."
French duo Anelka and Malouda were on target for Chelsea, who climbed back on top of the Premier League table following their shock 3-1 defeat at Wigan the previous week.
Carlo Ancelotti's side have now opened up a two-point gap over Manchester United, who drew with Sunderland on Saturday and lie in second place.
But perhaps more importantly, it restored the Blues to winning ways in emphatic fashion.
Ancelotti said: "It was an important win. It was a difficult match. I don't know if it was a better performance than in the Champions League against APOEL Nicosia. We did what we prepared before the game.
"After this game I think we have resolved the problem from the defeat at Wigan but it was not a big problem."
The Italian added: "Manchester United's result was a surprise for sure, but this season is about us because we are top of the league.
"We can prepare for the next games with concentration and determination as we know our season will depend on it."
Despite the defeat Benitez said he had few complaints about the performance of his players and admitted they could simply not find a way past the Chelsea defence.
He added: "The performance was not bad. We were playing a very good team in Chelsea." -- AFP
Goals from Nicolas Anelka and Florent Malouda condemned the Reds to their third defeat of the season and left them languishing in fifth place.
Three league losses is one more than Liverpool suffered over the whole of last season and Benitez's team looked anything but championship quality on Sunday as Chelsea overpowered them in the second half.
However, Benitez is staying upbeat about their title prospects.
"Our target now has to be the next game. Every game is important. We have to keep calm and working hard," he said.
"This year the top sides will lose games but you have to try to improve and we will try to win against Sunderland next.
"When the teams at the top of the table drop points and you win, it is better, but we have to keep winning games and stay as strong as possible and see what happens.
"It is my opinion you will see top sides losing more games this season. It is good for the Premier League and it means we have to keep calm."
French duo Anelka and Malouda were on target for Chelsea, who climbed back on top of the Premier League table following their shock 3-1 defeat at Wigan the previous week.
Carlo Ancelotti's side have now opened up a two-point gap over Manchester United, who drew with Sunderland on Saturday and lie in second place.
But perhaps more importantly, it restored the Blues to winning ways in emphatic fashion.
Ancelotti said: "It was an important win. It was a difficult match. I don't know if it was a better performance than in the Champions League against APOEL Nicosia. We did what we prepared before the game.
"After this game I think we have resolved the problem from the defeat at Wigan but it was not a big problem."
The Italian added: "Manchester United's result was a surprise for sure, but this season is about us because we are top of the league.
"We can prepare for the next games with concentration and determination as we know our season will depend on it."
Despite the defeat Benitez said he had few complaints about the performance of his players and admitted they could simply not find a way past the Chelsea defence.
He added: "The performance was not bad. We were playing a very good team in Chelsea." -- AFP
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Malaysia Cup 2009: Teams adopting dirty tactics
INSTEAD of bringing out the best in competing teams, the Malaysia Cup fever may have brought out the worst in some of them.
Terengganu team manager Shaikh Ahmad Tajuddin Shaikh Yusoff said Sarawak were one of the teams who chose to abandon the principle of the 'beautiful game' by adopting illegal-tackling tactics.
According to Negri Sembilan head coach Wan Jamak Wan Hassan, Johor were no better when the premier league outfit opted for physical intimidation, even as far as indulging in off-the-ball tackles.
He said several of his players were bruised and battered in the 2-1 away win and might not be fit enough for the home match against Sarawak today.
"Unlike regular league matches, the Malaysia Cup tournament tends to invoke stronger desire to succeed among the competing teams and some of them may have taken it a little too far.
"But it was only the first game of the competition and we hope in future matches, such malice will not escape the eyes of the match officials," he said.
Shaikh Ahmad said Terengganu were no strangers to tough-tackling football but he claimed Sarawak went over the top with their violent conduct, on and off the field.
"We were unfazed by the missiles thrown by their fans, our players were able to take the physical abuse on the field but it was a little too much when team officials invaded the pitch to intimidate our players.
"The match was stopped for about 10 minutes in the second half to diffuse the tense situation and we have to count our lucky stars that none of our players were seriously injured," said the Terengganu FA vice president.
Terengganu team captain Marzuki Yusoff said he did not remember Sarawak players being overly aggressive in previous matches.
"But then again, most of their players now are young and probably over-eager to impress.
"We went there to play football and we managed to do just that although our Under-21 player Sofi Hamid was red-carded together with a Sarawak player just after Khairul Izwan Khalid scored the winning goal for us," he said.
Meanwhile in Kota Baru, Kelantan coach B. Sathianathan said his players would have to be prepared for a backlash from defending champions Kedah who were held to a 1-1 draw by Armed Forces on Saturday.
Terengganu team manager Shaikh Ahmad Tajuddin Shaikh Yusoff said Sarawak were one of the teams who chose to abandon the principle of the 'beautiful game' by adopting illegal-tackling tactics.
According to Negri Sembilan head coach Wan Jamak Wan Hassan, Johor were no better when the premier league outfit opted for physical intimidation, even as far as indulging in off-the-ball tackles.
He said several of his players were bruised and battered in the 2-1 away win and might not be fit enough for the home match against Sarawak today.
"Unlike regular league matches, the Malaysia Cup tournament tends to invoke stronger desire to succeed among the competing teams and some of them may have taken it a little too far.
"But it was only the first game of the competition and we hope in future matches, such malice will not escape the eyes of the match officials," he said.
Shaikh Ahmad said Terengganu were no strangers to tough-tackling football but he claimed Sarawak went over the top with their violent conduct, on and off the field.
"We were unfazed by the missiles thrown by their fans, our players were able to take the physical abuse on the field but it was a little too much when team officials invaded the pitch to intimidate our players.
"The match was stopped for about 10 minutes in the second half to diffuse the tense situation and we have to count our lucky stars that none of our players were seriously injured," said the Terengganu FA vice president.
Terengganu team captain Marzuki Yusoff said he did not remember Sarawak players being overly aggressive in previous matches.
"But then again, most of their players now are young and probably over-eager to impress.
"We went there to play football and we managed to do just that although our Under-21 player Sofi Hamid was red-carded together with a Sarawak player just after Khairul Izwan Khalid scored the winning goal for us," he said.
Meanwhile in Kota Baru, Kelantan coach B. Sathianathan said his players would have to be prepared for a backlash from defending champions Kedah who were held to a 1-1 draw by Armed Forces on Saturday.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Nicol bounces back to join list of legends
NICOL David sealed her place in the pantheon of squash greats by winning her fourth World Open title after an engrossing battle with Natalie Grinham in the final in Amsterdam yesterday.
In a re-match of the 2006 world final in Belfast, Nicol proved her shock British Open quarter-final defeat was a mere blip as she crushed Dutch hopes of a home win with a 3-11, 11-6, 11-3, 11-8 win in 51 minutes for her 40th career Wispa Tour title.
"To come back from last week, this week.. it's an amazing feeling for me," said Nicol, still apparently dazed from her stunning achievement.
"I don't know what I'm saying. In fact, I can't believe it still... four titles!"
Nicol David beat Natalie Grinham 3-11, 11-6, 11-3, 11-8 in the World Open final in Amsterdam yesterday.
Nicol David beat Natalie Grinham 3-11, 11-6, 11-3, 11-8 in the World Open final in Amsterdam yesterday.
The triumph put Nicol on par with New Zealand great Susan Devoy on four world titles and just one behind her mentor Sarah Fitz-Gerald of Australia.
Nicol entered the final after an energy sapping 4-11, 11-6, 15-13, 11-7 semi-final win in one hour and two minutes over Alison Waters of England on Saturday while Natalie needed just half that time to sweep past her sister Rachael 11-13, 11-6, 11-6, 11-4.
It set up a much anticipated final between the top two seeds, who were both making their fourth world final appearance, but the odds were stacked against Natalie, who had lost their previous 11 meetings since the last of her seven victories in 29 clashes with Nicol at the 2007 Seoul Open final.
Natalie was hoping to become only the second Dutch world champion after Vanessa Atkinson in 2004 and the partisan crowd at the Frans Otten Stadion were rooting for an upset when Natalie outplayed the World No 1 in the first game as she stormed into an 8-2 lead before taking the opener in 11 minutes.
But in what has become almost routine for Nicol, the defending champion settled her nerves to level the match when she broke clear from 4-4 in the second game.
The third game was over in a flash as Nicol found her rhythm and sped to a 7-1 lead to take a decisive two games to one lead.
Natalie, ranked third in the world, attempted to engineer a fightback in the fourth game when she led 5-2 and 6-3 but it merely delayed the inevitable.
Nicol drew level at 6-6 and after Natalie edged ahead at 8-6, the Malaysian reeled off five points in a row to leave her rival with the runner-up trophy for the fourth time in the last five years.
"Winning that first game gave her confidence but for me, it was a question of not a good game, now move on," said Nicol.
"In the fourth, those points at 8-8 and 9-9 were so crucial. I had to raise my game to take her confidence away, so I just went for it."
The world title is Nicol's sixth on the Wispa Tour this year following her wins in Cayman Islands, Texas, Seoul, Malaysia and Singapore in addition to winning the World Games gold medal.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Moto GP: Rossi dominates to extend overall lead
MISANO (Italy): Italian motorcycling maestro Valentino Rossi extended his lead in the MotoGp standings yesterday as he easily beat teammate and championship rival Jorge Lorenzo to take the San Marino race.
The 30-year-old eight-times world champion -- who had admitted over the weekend to holding talks with Ferrari about driving for them in next weekend's Formula One Italian Grand Prix before deciding against taking up the offer -- had been pinned back by Lorenzo when the Spaniard won last weekend's US MotoGp.
However, with victory yesterday his lead is 30 points -- 237 to 207 -- while another Spaniard Dani Pedrosa, who was third here, moves into third place overall on 157 points ahead of Australian Casey Stoner, who is absent because of a mystery virus which has plagued him all season.
Rossi, who has also revealed that things are not totally happy within the stable but will see out his contract which ends at the end of next season, confessed that all had not been too good at the beginning.
Yamaha's Valentino Rossi has extended his lead to 30 points.
Yamaha's Valentino Rossi has extended his lead to 30 points.
"It wasn't easy at the beginning and I was in trouble after a bad start," said Rossi, who had begun on pole.
"However, it was in the end the perfect weekend."
Lorenzo admitted that he had not been up to the level of the Italian.
"I put in as much effort as I possibly could especially when I overtook Dani (Pedrosa).
"However, Valentino was clearly the number one this weekend."
Pedrosa was extremely fortunate to even finish the race as he ran out of fuel on the wind down lap after taking the chequered flag.
"Maybe I had a problem for something like that to happen," he said.
"Lorenzo and Rossi were just too fast for me on the corners, but hopefully I will have more fortune next time."
With 23 laps remaining Lorenzo was right on Rossi's tail with Pedrosa leading, but the irrepressible Italian gave himself some breathing space as he overtook Pedrosa two laps later.
Lorenzo was having a devil of a time to get past his compatriot Pedrosa and try to get at his Yamaha team-mate, who with 16 laps to go held a lead of nearly two seconds over the pursuing pair.
Lorenzo finally passed Pedrosa with 15 laps remaining and desperately tried to claw back the gap between himself and Rossi while Pedrosa looked safe in third as he had an eight-second advantage over Andrea Dovizioso.
However, Lorenzo, who had been really disappointed by his performance in qualifying, was unable to make any inroads into Rossi's lead and the Italian had opened up a gap of well over two seconds with just eight laps remaining.
Veteran Loris Capirossi performed a brilliant overtaking of Dovizioso with just four laps to go to reconfirm his Suzuki team's decision to offer him a new contract -- though Dovizioso was to regain fourth spot in another dramatic overtaking manoeuvre on the final lap.
The early part of the race had seen a spectacular collision between Nicky Hayden and home hope Alex de Angelis -- third and second respectively in the United States last weekend -- with the American venting his spleen at the San Marino rider and having to be separated by a race steward.
Earlier, Aprilia had dominated the other categories with 1-2-3 cleansweeps in both.
Hector Berbera of Spain won the 250cc Grand Prix, leading home teammates Italien Mattia Pasini and another Spaniard, Alvaro Bautista.
Julian Simon of Spain won the 125cc Grand Prix in seeing off compatriot Nicolas Terol and Britain's Bradley Smith. -- AFP
Friday, September 4, 2009
Alonso's Anfield departure planned year ago
LONDON: Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso has admitted he planned to quit Liverpool from the moment Anfield boss Rafa Benitez tried to sell him last year.
Benitez had wanted to off-load Alonso to Juventus in July 2008 to raise money to sign Gareth Barry from Aston Villa.
Alonso was disappointed to hear that Benitez was willing to let him go and resolved to leave when the right opportunity arose.
That finally happened when he joined Real for STG30 million (RM173 million) in August after revealing to Benitez that he wanted to leave the Premier League club.
"It was a very difficult decision for me to make," he told Sky Sports News.
"After five years I have experienced wonderful nights at Anfield, to have experienced the support of probably the best fans in the world.
"That's why I have always been very grateful and I will always have them in my mind and it has been a pleasure.
"Last year the club proposed to me that I might have to be sold to find funds for new players.
"It was a difficult decision or difficult moment to accept that. I accepted that as a professional and that moment probably changed my mind and I thought that maybe from that moment that maybe it was time for a change."
Alonso has since admitted that his relationship with Benitez deteriorated when he demanded to leave but the Spanish international reveals that their relationship was always a professional one.
"There has been a lot of rumours but I have always said that it has been simply a professional relationship," he said.
"I have always tried to do what he asked to do. What he asked of me on the pitch to do the talking on the pitch and that's that as far as that." -- AFP
Benitez had wanted to off-load Alonso to Juventus in July 2008 to raise money to sign Gareth Barry from Aston Villa.
Alonso was disappointed to hear that Benitez was willing to let him go and resolved to leave when the right opportunity arose.
That finally happened when he joined Real for STG30 million (RM173 million) in August after revealing to Benitez that he wanted to leave the Premier League club.
"It was a very difficult decision for me to make," he told Sky Sports News.
"After five years I have experienced wonderful nights at Anfield, to have experienced the support of probably the best fans in the world.
"That's why I have always been very grateful and I will always have them in my mind and it has been a pleasure.
"Last year the club proposed to me that I might have to be sold to find funds for new players.
"It was a difficult decision or difficult moment to accept that. I accepted that as a professional and that moment probably changed my mind and I thought that maybe from that moment that maybe it was time for a change."
Alonso has since admitted that his relationship with Benitez deteriorated when he demanded to leave but the Spanish international reveals that their relationship was always a professional one.
"There has been a lot of rumours but I have always said that it has been simply a professional relationship," he said.
"I have always tried to do what he asked to do. What he asked of me on the pitch to do the talking on the pitch and that's that as far as that." -- AFP
Thursday, September 3, 2009
AN under-strength National Under-23 side turned in a commendable performance before going down 1-0 to Saudi Arabian professional club Al-Qadisiya in Damman yesterday.
Captain and defender Aidil Zafuan Abd Radzak and midfield duo Bunyamin Umar and Shakir Ali were rested due to injur ies.
Coach K. Rajagobal said he tried out several fringe players in the match.
“I tested several players and strategies. The end result is not important as they played to my expectations,” said the coach when contacted in Damman.
“We let in a soft goal as a result of K.
Gur usamy’s back pass. Overall, the players created several scoring opportunities which is a positive sign.” Among the players tested were third choice goalkeeper Mohd Sharbinee Ramli, Ahmad Shakir Ali and Gur usamy.
Al-Qadisiya, a club based in Khobar, fielded their best including Argentina- born striker Ruben Dario Gigena.
The club are currently 11th in the 12-team Saudi Arabian Professional League.
Meanwhile, Rajagobal hopes his three regulars (Aidil, Bunyamin, Shakir) will be fit for the friendly against Jordan on S at u r d ay.
“They are showing signs of recovering and should be available. I will field my best players for the Jordan match,” said Rajagobal.
Malaysia can expect a hot reception in Amman as the hosts, ranked 122 in the world, are expected to name their top players including Spain-based striker Thaer Fayed Bawab who plays for CD Alfaro, a Spanish lower division club, in Aidil Zafuan was rested due to injury. Saturday ’s match.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Rajagobal: Shakir can go far
NATIONAL Under-23 coach K. Rajagobal, who knows all about good strikers, believes Kedah-born Ahmad Shakir Md Ali has the makings of one.
"Shakir has everything a perfect striker needs," said Rajagobal. "He's fast, he's technically gifted and he's excellent on the ball. Shakir is a young lad and if he concentrates on his football, he will go far."
So impressed was Rajagobal with the 19-year-old Shakir that the coach included him in the National Under-23 squad in April.
Though Shakir, who scored 17 goals for Premier League side Young Tigers this season, has yet to start in an international match (featuring only as a substitute in recent friendlies), the young striker has impressed many with his strong presence on the field when given the opportunity.
Shakir was a substitute when the National Under-23 team took on Indonesia, Manchester United and Kenya in recent friendly matches and he provided the extra bite up front, though he did not score.
But Shakir's wait for his first international goal ended on Monday when he scored in Malaysia's 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in Riyadh.
"Shakir is a fearless striker. Despite his age, he is not afraid to take on experience defenders. I remember him giving Manchester United defenders a tough time in July," said Rajagobal.
"He is a very exciting player to watch. I believe, in time, he will be a great player." Shakir, if he continues with his performance, will likely feature in the Sea Games in Laos.
The other strikers in the training squad are Zaquan Adha Radzak, Norsharul Izlan Talaha, Farderin Kadir and Ahmad Fakri Shaarani.
Meanwhile, Rajagobal believes his Under-23 squad will reach their full potential as a unit in three years.
"They are improving with every match but it will take another three years before they make it big.
"My players are young and they need the exposure and experience. Of course the immediate target for them will be the Laos Sea Games," he said.
Rajagobal added that he will only set a target for the Sea Games after the draw is released in mid-October. -- AJITPAL SINGH
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Roddick back in hunt after heartbreak
ANDY Roddick has bounced back from the heartbreak of an epic five-set loss to Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final eight weeks ago to serve notice he will be a contender again at the US Open.
"You play the hand you are dealt," Roddick said.
"I don't think at any point that I sit around and feel sorry for myself. I feel pretty fortunate ... there have been great champions that you have to go through every era in tennis."
Roddick turned 27 on Sunday, the eve of the year's last grand slam tournament on the Flushing Meadows hard courts where the American won his only slam crown in 2003.
Andy Roddick has recovered from the heartbreak of an epic five-set loss to Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final eight weeks ago.
Andy Roddick has recovered from the heartbreak of an epic five-set loss to Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final eight weeks ago.
Roddick hopes to add another magic memory in two weeks.
"There was never a point where I was going to just lay down afterwards or not come back and play hard," Roddick said.
"I wish more than anything I had won that tournament but at the same time I'm still going to move on and keep going with the plan because I feel like it is working."
The fifth seed could meet Federer again in the US Open semi-finals, but even that rematch would likely lack the tension and drama of their Wimbledon final match-up, which Federer won to capture his record 15th career slam title.
"It's always tough in tennis," Federer said. "There is always going to be a winner even though both have played great throughout the event.
"I've walked off tennis courts a loser many times. I wouldn't ask the other guy to feel sorry for me. Or the fans. It's just part of the game. Same thing here. I'm happy it was a great match. I think that's what we look back on."
Federer took the last set 16-14, a marathon that proved to be the longest fifth set in grand slam history. Roddick took a heartbreaking defeat but found that in the valiant effort he had touched something with those who watched it.
"I'm not sure what made people emotionally invested in it. Obviously I think it was a very high-level match. We were both trying our hardest but beyond that I think that's for (others) to decipher," Roddick said.
There were some low points in Roddick's recovery.
"For the first two or three weeks afterwards I think it changed daily but like anything, the more you distance yourself from it, you start remembering the better things as opposed to the most disappointing things," Roddick said.
"It was a very good event. I would have loved to have changed the last five minutes of it but you look forward to another opportunity."
Roddick joked that more people could relate to his failure than astonishing success such as that of Federer, but the US fireball server also admits the well-wishers played a major role in helping him overcome the defeat.
"The support I got from fans, from peers, from everybody, it was surprising in the best way possible and pretty humbling," Roddick said. "I was really surprised how many people watched it and were affected by it.
"To be honest, that really helped the process." -- AFP
"You play the hand you are dealt," Roddick said.
"I don't think at any point that I sit around and feel sorry for myself. I feel pretty fortunate ... there have been great champions that you have to go through every era in tennis."
Roddick turned 27 on Sunday, the eve of the year's last grand slam tournament on the Flushing Meadows hard courts where the American won his only slam crown in 2003.
Andy Roddick has recovered from the heartbreak of an epic five-set loss to Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final eight weeks ago.
Andy Roddick has recovered from the heartbreak of an epic five-set loss to Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final eight weeks ago.
Roddick hopes to add another magic memory in two weeks.
"There was never a point where I was going to just lay down afterwards or not come back and play hard," Roddick said.
"I wish more than anything I had won that tournament but at the same time I'm still going to move on and keep going with the plan because I feel like it is working."
The fifth seed could meet Federer again in the US Open semi-finals, but even that rematch would likely lack the tension and drama of their Wimbledon final match-up, which Federer won to capture his record 15th career slam title.
"It's always tough in tennis," Federer said. "There is always going to be a winner even though both have played great throughout the event.
"I've walked off tennis courts a loser many times. I wouldn't ask the other guy to feel sorry for me. Or the fans. It's just part of the game. Same thing here. I'm happy it was a great match. I think that's what we look back on."
Federer took the last set 16-14, a marathon that proved to be the longest fifth set in grand slam history. Roddick took a heartbreaking defeat but found that in the valiant effort he had touched something with those who watched it.
"I'm not sure what made people emotionally invested in it. Obviously I think it was a very high-level match. We were both trying our hardest but beyond that I think that's for (others) to decipher," Roddick said.
There were some low points in Roddick's recovery.
"For the first two or three weeks afterwards I think it changed daily but like anything, the more you distance yourself from it, you start remembering the better things as opposed to the most disappointing things," Roddick said.
"It was a very good event. I would have loved to have changed the last five minutes of it but you look forward to another opportunity."
Roddick joked that more people could relate to his failure than astonishing success such as that of Federer, but the US fireball server also admits the well-wishers played a major role in helping him overcome the defeat.
"The support I got from fans, from peers, from everybody, it was surprising in the best way possible and pretty humbling," Roddick said. "I was really surprised how many people watched it and were affected by it.
"To be honest, that really helped the process." -- AFP
Friday, August 28, 2009
F1: Button ready to race hard
SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS (Belgium): Drivers world championship leader Briton Jenson Button will race with more aggression in a bid to secure victory in this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix and tighten his grip in the title race.
After four races without a win, the 29-year-old Englishman knows the time has come for him to wring all he can from himself and his Brawn GP car in a bid to make sure that he makes the most of his 18-point lead in the championship.
He said: "It is better to be consistent and not crash, but if you are consistent and get two points it is not enough now. So, I am going to go to Spa to be more aggressive, for sure: in every way, not just driving, but with the strategy and with the tyres.
"It is where we have got to be because otherwise it (my lead) is going to be slowly eaten away. It is a very difficult season this year because we have had some really poor weekends and some really strong weekends.
Brawn’s Jenson Button leads the drivers world championship by 18 points and after four races without a win has vowed to be more aggressive in this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix.
Brawn’s Jenson Button leads the drivers world championship by 18 points and after four races without a win has vowed to be more aggressive in this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix.
"The race in Valencia was the first time when we have had a strong car that I have not been able to get the most out of it. That was frustrating and I have to turn it around."
Button finished only seventh in last Sunday's European Grand Prix won by his Brawn GP teammate veteran Brazilian Rubens Barrichello.
It was the Latin American's first win in five years and enabled him to leap to second in the title race just 18 points behind his teammate.
Button, winner of six of the opening seven races this year, said: "It is pretty amazing that I am still so far ahead. My best finish has been fifth in the last two.
"Valencia should have been a lot more, but it wasn't. I got two points though and I've got 18 points over Rubens. That is still a good margin but Rubens is very quick at the moment.
"The good thing is that the Red Bulls are still going to be fighting (each other). They are going to be quick for sure over the next few races, especially the next one at Spa, but I don't think the McLarens will be as quick as they have been.
"I think we have sorted out a few of our issues, and we have some updates, so Rubens and myself will be very quick at Spa.
"I just hope I can get a good lap in qualifying, as I have been doing most of the season, because two-and-a-half tenths can be three places on the grid."
While Button looked ahead confidently and Barrichello enjoyed the aftermath of his Valencia win, the Red Bull pairing of Australian Mark Webber and German Sebastian Vettel were licking their wounds, after a pointless weekend, and reviewing their engine strategy for next year.
"The team have to decide in the next few days what to do for engines for 2010," admitted Red Bull team advisor Helmut Marko who noted carefully that while his team have suffered four engine failures this season -- including two last weekend for Vettel alone -- their various six rivals running with the Mercedes-Benz engines have had no failures at all.
"I am convinced they have the capacity to supply four teams, not just three," he added, referring to Mercedes-Benz's existing arrangements with McLaren, Brawn and Force India.
After their strong showing again in Spain where defending champion Briton Lewis Hamilton was unlucky not to win, McLaren's team boss Martin Whitmarsh said he is expecting another good performance in Belgium.
McLaren's resurgence, added to Brawn's revival of form and Red Bull's need to bounce back from a hugely-disappointing weekend in Valencia signals that this Sunday's race has all the prospects of being a closely-contested and thrilling event on the calendar's most classic circuit.
Last year's race around the 7.004-km venue, which mixes purpose-laid asphalt racing track with ordinary country roads in the rolling forests of the Ardennes was a memorable encounter overshadowed by thrills and controversy.
Brazilian Felipe Massa of Ferrari was finally handed victory, though without ever leading the race, after Hamilton was disqualified following an exciting victory for McLaren and a spectacular racing duel with Finland's Kimi Raikkonen in the second Ferrari.
Another dose of something similar will be sufficient to make sure that everyone is kept on the edge of their seats again with Ferrari's Raikkonen, a bit of a Spa specialist, capable of upsetting the odds to grab his first win this year. -- AFP
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Dollah is frustrated Pahang can't get big names
FRUSTRATED at his lack of influence in signing big names to boost Pahang's chances in the Malaysia Cup which kicks off next month, coach Dollah Salleh is left with no choice but to settle for three recruits -- all from club side, Kuantan Port Shahzan Muda.
Just like other teams preparing for the Malaysian Cup, Pahang approached several elite players from teams not involved in the tournament to feature in their side, however, most snubbed his offer.
A dejected Dollah said a senior player who had earlier agreed to play for Pahang, informed him on Sunday that he had changed his mind.
"I had identified three quality players whom I believed would strengthen the squad to challenge the other teams in Group A, but sadly all rejected the offers," said Dollah in Kuantan on Monday.
"Since I am running out of time as the final list of players has to be submitted by Thursday (tomorrow), I decided to sign Abdul Rahman Kadir from Shahzan and two other senior players also from Shahzan."
Dollah, a Malaysia Cup winner with Pahang in 1992, said many players rejected his offers as they believed Pahang would not progress far in the Malaysia Cup and that the team lack the fighting spirit and the players to become champions.
"Some players also cited Pahang's financial woes as another reason but when I gave them my assurance that their welfare would be well taken care of. they were still not keen to sign a deal," he added.
"After Pahang's dismal performance in the Super League and their subsequent relegation, many experienced players felt that the team will not be able to perform and that it was not worth to join them."
On the two Shahzan Muda players who would feature for Pahang, Dollah said he has proposed their names to Pahang Football Association president, Tengku Muda Pahang Tengku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ahmad Shah and is waiting for a decision.
The battle for the two spots in the squad will involve seasoned campaigners Azizul Kamaluddin, Jalaluddin Jaafar and Shahril Faizal Sharifuddin.
Just like other teams preparing for the Malaysian Cup, Pahang approached several elite players from teams not involved in the tournament to feature in their side, however, most snubbed his offer.
A dejected Dollah said a senior player who had earlier agreed to play for Pahang, informed him on Sunday that he had changed his mind.
"I had identified three quality players whom I believed would strengthen the squad to challenge the other teams in Group A, but sadly all rejected the offers," said Dollah in Kuantan on Monday.
"Since I am running out of time as the final list of players has to be submitted by Thursday (tomorrow), I decided to sign Abdul Rahman Kadir from Shahzan and two other senior players also from Shahzan."
Dollah, a Malaysia Cup winner with Pahang in 1992, said many players rejected his offers as they believed Pahang would not progress far in the Malaysia Cup and that the team lack the fighting spirit and the players to become champions.
"Some players also cited Pahang's financial woes as another reason but when I gave them my assurance that their welfare would be well taken care of. they were still not keen to sign a deal," he added.
"After Pahang's dismal performance in the Super League and their subsequent relegation, many experienced players felt that the team will not be able to perform and that it was not worth to join them."
On the two Shahzan Muda players who would feature for Pahang, Dollah said he has proposed their names to Pahang Football Association president, Tengku Muda Pahang Tengku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ahmad Shah and is waiting for a decision.
The battle for the two spots in the squad will involve seasoned campaigners Azizul Kamaluddin, Jalaluddin Jaafar and Shahril Faizal Sharifuddin.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Arsenal warned not to get complacent
LONDON: Arsene Wenger has warned his Arsenal stars not to let complacency hand Celtic a European lifeline in today's Champions League play-off second leg.
Wenger's side have one foot in the lucrative Champions League group stages after cruising to a 2-0 victory over Celtic at Parkhead last week.
The Gunners' impressive display in Scotland means they don't need to win the return to go through. A draw or even a one-goal defeat would be enough to secure their place in Europe's elite club competition.
But while Wenger is happy to be in such a strong position, he knows Celtic won't go down without a fight and he is keen to ensure his players don't underestimate the Glasgow club.
"The tie is not safe, we know that," he said. "We experienced a very physical game over there.
"We know the job has to be finished, but we are still in a strong position.
"The result will be determined by the way we play the second leg."
Wenger could be without captain Cesc Fabregas after the Spain midfielder suffered a hamstring injury against Portsmouth on Saturday but, although that would be a significant blow, the Arsenal manager can take heart from the way his side dominated the first leg.
While Arsenal's goals -- a deflection off William Gallas and a Gary Caldwell own goal -- owed a large debt to good fortune, there was no mistaking the Premier League club's extra class in possession.
With convincing victories against Everton and Portsmouth in the league emphasising Arsenal's quality, it would be a major upset if Celtic overturn the deficit.
Yet Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen is well aware that Celtic came from 1-0 down to Dinamo Moscow in the last round to claim a surprise 2-0 victory in the second leg.
"Celtic are still a good team and against Moscow in the third qualifying round they lost at home 1-0, but then won 2-0 away," Vermaelen said.
Wenger's side have one foot in the lucrative Champions League group stages after cruising to a 2-0 victory over Celtic at Parkhead last week.
The Gunners' impressive display in Scotland means they don't need to win the return to go through. A draw or even a one-goal defeat would be enough to secure their place in Europe's elite club competition.
But while Wenger is happy to be in such a strong position, he knows Celtic won't go down without a fight and he is keen to ensure his players don't underestimate the Glasgow club.
"The tie is not safe, we know that," he said. "We experienced a very physical game over there.
"We know the job has to be finished, but we are still in a strong position.
"The result will be determined by the way we play the second leg."
Wenger could be without captain Cesc Fabregas after the Spain midfielder suffered a hamstring injury against Portsmouth on Saturday but, although that would be a significant blow, the Arsenal manager can take heart from the way his side dominated the first leg.
While Arsenal's goals -- a deflection off William Gallas and a Gary Caldwell own goal -- owed a large debt to good fortune, there was no mistaking the Premier League club's extra class in possession.
With convincing victories against Everton and Portsmouth in the league emphasising Arsenal's quality, it would be a major upset if Celtic overturn the deficit.
Yet Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen is well aware that Celtic came from 1-0 down to Dinamo Moscow in the last round to claim a surprise 2-0 victory in the second leg.
"Celtic are still a good team and against Moscow in the third qualifying round they lost at home 1-0, but then won 2-0 away," Vermaelen said.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Aston Villa Wins 3-1 at Liverpool for First Premier League Win
Aug. 24 (Bloomberg) -- Aston Villa won 3-1 at Liverpool in English soccer’s Premier League to register its first victory at Anfield since 2001.
Villa went ahead through a Lucas own goal after 34 minutes, doubled the advantage seconds before halftime with a header from Curtis Davies and added a penalty kick from Ashley Young with 15 minutes remaining. Fernando Torres scored for the home team after 72 minutes.
The victory gives Villa three points after two games, leaving it 12th in the 20-team standings. Liverpool is two places higher, with the same number of points from three games after two defeats in nine days.
Villa went ahead through a Lucas own goal after 34 minutes, doubled the advantage seconds before halftime with a header from Curtis Davies and added a penalty kick from Ashley Young with 15 minutes remaining. Fernando Torres scored for the home team after 72 minutes.
The victory gives Villa three points after two games, leaving it 12th in the 20-team standings. Liverpool is two places higher, with the same number of points from three games after two defeats in nine days.
Monday, August 24, 2009
bolt
BERLIN (AP)—Usain Bolt was honored by the city of Berlin by receiving an original segment of the Berlin Wall—nearly three tons of it.
The Jamaican sprinter, who broke world records in winning gold medals in the 100 and 200 meters, was presented with the piece of wall at a small ceremony Sunday, the final day of the world championships.
The 12-foot high section will be delivered to Bolt’s training camp in Jamaica.
The piece of the wall, which divided communist East Berlin from West Berlin between 1961 and 1989, is decorated with a life-size painting of Bolt running on the blue track of the Olympic stadium and the words “NEW WR”—new world record. Bolt set a world record in the 100 at 9.58 seconds and 19.19 in the 200.
“I will never forget Berlin,” Bolt said at the ceremony. “Ich bin ein Berlino.”
The bear mascot of the championships is called Berlino, while the phrase “ich bin ein Berliner” was used by former President John F. Kennedy during a visit to West Berlin.
Berlin Mayor Klaus Wowereit said Bolt had shown that “one can tear down walls that had been considered as insurmountable.”
The Berlin Wall came down in 1989, as communism was collapsing in Eastern Europe.
The Jamaican sprinter, who broke world records in winning gold medals in the 100 and 200 meters, was presented with the piece of wall at a small ceremony Sunday, the final day of the world championships.
The 12-foot high section will be delivered to Bolt’s training camp in Jamaica.
The piece of the wall, which divided communist East Berlin from West Berlin between 1961 and 1989, is decorated with a life-size painting of Bolt running on the blue track of the Olympic stadium and the words “NEW WR”—new world record. Bolt set a world record in the 100 at 9.58 seconds and 19.19 in the 200.
“I will never forget Berlin,” Bolt said at the ceremony. “Ich bin ein Berlino.”
The bear mascot of the championships is called Berlino, while the phrase “ich bin ein Berliner” was used by former President John F. Kennedy during a visit to West Berlin.
Berlin Mayor Klaus Wowereit said Bolt had shown that “one can tear down walls that had been considered as insurmountable.”
The Berlin Wall came down in 1989, as communism was collapsing in Eastern Europe.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Football: No title excuses, Torres warns after signing new deal
LIVERPOOL, England: Fernando Torres signed a new contract with Liverpool on Friday and then told his team-mates they have a golden opportunity to end the club’s 19-year wait to win the English title this season.
Spain striker Torres agreed an improved deal that will keep him at Anfield until 2013 with the option of a further year’s extension and he insists there are no excuses for not winning the title.
“Fernando Torres has put pen to paper on a new and improved contract at Anfield,” a statement on Liverpool’s website confirmed.
“The 25-year old striker agreed the terms of the deal back in May and has now completed the formalities of signing the new contract.” Rafa Benitez’s runners-up finished just four points behind Manchester United in the Premier League last season and Torres is confident Liverpool can hold their own against the top four rivals.
He believes landing wins rather than draws in some of the other tricky fixtures, like Sunday’s Premier League opener at Tottenham, will be enough to overhaul United.
“We have no problem beating Manchester United or Chelsea but it is games like Sunday’s at Tottenham where we need to show our real title intentions,” Torres told The Sun.
“Tottenham is not an easy place to go but these are games we must be winning if this is to finally be our year.
“I am not thinking can we win the title, I am thinking we have to win the title.” After several seasons on the fringes of the title race, Torres believes the experience of going so close last term will stand them in good stead this year.
“We came so close last season but for many of the players it was their first time experiencing the pressure of a Premier League title race,” Torres said.
“We have experience and if we don’t bring the title back to Anfield I won’t be offering up any excuses at the end of the season.
“We don’t need to improve a lot on last season to win the title. There is only a slight improvement needed to give the fans and players the title they have wanted for so many years now.
“This is the best Liverpool team there has been in years, that is what many of the experienced players are saying.
Spain striker Torres agreed an improved deal that will keep him at Anfield until 2013 with the option of a further year’s extension and he insists there are no excuses for not winning the title.
“Fernando Torres has put pen to paper on a new and improved contract at Anfield,” a statement on Liverpool’s website confirmed.
“The 25-year old striker agreed the terms of the deal back in May and has now completed the formalities of signing the new contract.” Rafa Benitez’s runners-up finished just four points behind Manchester United in the Premier League last season and Torres is confident Liverpool can hold their own against the top four rivals.
He believes landing wins rather than draws in some of the other tricky fixtures, like Sunday’s Premier League opener at Tottenham, will be enough to overhaul United.
“We have no problem beating Manchester United or Chelsea but it is games like Sunday’s at Tottenham where we need to show our real title intentions,” Torres told The Sun.
“Tottenham is not an easy place to go but these are games we must be winning if this is to finally be our year.
“I am not thinking can we win the title, I am thinking we have to win the title.” After several seasons on the fringes of the title race, Torres believes the experience of going so close last term will stand them in good stead this year.
“We came so close last season but for many of the players it was their first time experiencing the pressure of a Premier League title race,” Torres said.
“We have experience and if we don’t bring the title back to Anfield I won’t be offering up any excuses at the end of the season.
“We don’t need to improve a lot on last season to win the title. There is only a slight improvement needed to give the fans and players the title they have wanted for so many years now.
“This is the best Liverpool team there has been in years, that is what many of the experienced players are saying.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
EPL 2009-10 Season: Benitez to hold talks with Mascherano
LONDON: Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez admits he needs to hold talks with Javier Mascherano to resolve the Argentina midfielder's future at Anfield.
Mascherano was keen on joining Barcelona in the close-season after the European champions approached Livepool over a deal for the Argentina captain.
Benitez hinted that Barca forward Lionel Messi, a compatriot of Mascherano's, had been trying to persuade his international teammate to make the switch to the Nou Camp.
But the Liverpool boss refused to agree to the transfer because he was already resigned to losing Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid.
| Liverpool want to offer Mascherano a contract extension. |
There is now speculation that Liverpool want to offer the 25-year-old a contract extension in order to prolong his stay at Anfield and Benitez told Sky Sports News: "We were talking with Mascherano before. He knows we have to have a meeting and talk about his future.
"There is a possibility that we will be friends, and will talk about things in private."
Meanwhile, Benitez has hinted that he could enter the transfer market before the window closes on Aug 31.
With Danish defender Daniel Agger out for several weeks and centrebacks Jamie Carragher and Martin Skrtel injured in Sunday's defeat at Tottenham, Benitez is looking for defensive cover, with Bilbao defender Fernando Amorebieta reportedly top of his list.
"I try to see how the market is, and what players are available, just in case," he said.
"You never know if you get injuries or if you have to bring someone in. It also depends on the position (of players) too.
"We are trying to keep working with the scouting department and will see what happens".
The Reds boss may have to sell before he can buy however after reports that Liverpool's American owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks are refusing to release any more transfer funds. -- AFP
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Very easy for Kaka as Real parade new Galacticos
MADRID: Real Madrid's Brazilian signing Kaka said he finds it "very easy" playing alongside the other new world stars at the club.
"It's very easy to play in a team with people of such quality around," he said following his Spanish debut with the side, a 2-0 win over Real Sociedad in a pre-season friendly on Saturday.
He had special praise for another of Real's "new Galaticos", Spain international Xabi Alonso, signed from Liverpool this month.
"Xabi Alonso has brought us a lot of security and fluidity. Now the most important thing is to look for balance and we are getting that," the Spanish sporting press quoted him as saying.
"We understand each other and I believe we can do great things together. I have noticed that the team gain possession with Xabi Alonso and that is very important," said the midfielder, signed from AC Milan for E65 million (RM325 million) in June.
Another big new signing, Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile said he thinks the team, who went on a pre-season tour of the US, is close to reaching the level that fans are expecting of it.
"We are continuing to work hard to reach the form that we want, but I know that it will not be very difficult to reach this level in a short space of time," the Portuguese striker said.
Real face Borussia Dortmund in a friendly in Germany today, before the start of the Spanish league season at the end of the month.
Real president Florentino Perez has splashed out over E250 million on the likes of Kaka, Alonso, Ronaldo, and Karim Benzema since he returned to the club in June in a bid to make the nine-time European champions a formidable force again.
Perez led Real from 2000 to 2006, when they earned the nickname 'Los Galacticos', with such stars as Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo and David Beckham. But while the club enjoyed the success of two domestic league titles and one Champions League, between 2003 and 2006 they did not win a single major trophy, and fears have been expressed that their glamorous new stars may also fail to deliver this season. -- AFP
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
EPL 2009-10 Season: Mixed fortunes for big guns
LONDON: English football's superpowers had mixed fortunes on the opening weekend of the Premier League season as Arsenal enjoyed six of the best, while Manchester United and Chelsea ground out hard-fought victories and Liverpool spluttered.
United claimed a 1-0 win over newly-promoted Birmingham at Old Trafford on Sunday, then Tottenham stunned Liverpool with a 2-1 triumph at White Hart Lane.
Just 24 hours earlier new Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti savoured a 2-1 victory over Hull in his first match and Arsene Wenger was left purring by Arsenal's stunning 6-1 success at Everton.
United made a winning start to their bid for a record fourth successive title thanks to Wayne Rooney's goal and Sir Alex Ferguson insists it was only the start of great things to come now for the England forward.
"It gets him on the road to what we hope will be a very significant total for us this season," Ferguson said.
"If you have two or three strikers who can get you 20 it stands you in good stead. Wayne Rooney is well capable of that.
"I know some of our supporters are still worried that I have not bought a megastar to replace Cristiano Ronaldo. But I am more than happy with our squad and although we have lost a major player, I believe we are on the threshold of a very exciting era for Manchester United."
Liverpool, regarded by many as United's biggest title rivals, fared less well as Rafael Benitez's team were beaten by Sebastien Bassong's second half header.
Benoit Assou-Ekotto had put Tottenham ahead before Steven Gerrard equalised from the penalty spot.
But Benitez fumed over referee Phil Dowd's decision not to award two late penalties to his side.
"Everybody could see there was a penalty against Andrey Voronin. It was so clear, it is unbelievable," he said. "With this referee, I knew this (another penalty) was impossible."
At Goodison Park, Wenger's young Arsenal team issued a defiant response to the critics who have dismissed them as title also-rans by dismantling an Everton side who finished fifth last season.
A Cesc Fabregas double and goals from Denilson, William Gallas, debutant defender Thomas Vermaelen and Eduardo were just reward for a scintillating display from the Gunners.
"Before the game we were seemingly being ruled out by everybody, we were told we do not have the squad. Well, we wanted to show that we do have the squad," Wenger said.
Chelsea needed a stoppage time winner from Ivory Coast forward Didier Drogba to end Hull's stubborn resistance at Stamford Bridge.
Stephen Hunt, making his Hull debut, had given the Tigers a shock lead before Drogba equalised with a superb free-kick and then chipped in the winner.
Mega-rich Manchester City got a first repayment on Mark Hughes's STG93 million (RM538 million) close-season spending spree.
Hughes, backed by City's Abu Dhabi-based owners, has completely revamped his team and was relieved to see Emmanuel Adebayor, a STG25 million signing from Arsenal, open the scoring at Blackburn before Stephen Ireland's goal clinched a 2-0 win.
"A lot of people were looking at us to see how it was going to go. It was a positive afternoon from that point of view," Hughes said.
Elsewhere, Sunderland won 1-0 at Bolton, Stoke defeated Burnley 2-0, Fulham won 1-0 at Fulham, Wigan shocked Aston Villa 2-0 and West Ham won 2-0 at Wolverhampton. -- AFP
Monday, August 17, 2009
ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Ancelotti has work to do at Chelsea
LONDON: Carlo Ancelotti admits his new-look Chelsea side remain a work in progress after they spluttered to a 2-1 victory over Hull City on the Premier League's opening day.
Ancelotti marked his first league game since taking charge with three points thanks to a stoppage time winner from Didier Drogba after the Ivorian had earlier cancelled out Stephen Hunt's 27th minute opening goal at Stamford Bridge.
But the Italian acknowledged Chelsea's performance was less than convincing, with the reshaped midfield diamond failing to deliver the creative sparkle needed to break down Hull's defences.
Although Ancelotti was quick to excuse his players their teething troubles against Hull, he warned things must quickly improve if they are to avoid the possibility of losing early ground in the title race.
| Frank Lampard looked below his best against Hull City. |
Ancelotti said: "I don't know how long it will take for the players to get used to the system. I don't know the precise time, hopefully soon.
"But we like to think we will still have to improve because there is no such thing as the perfect season.
"For sure we have to improve because we didn't play well at times in this match. We made some mistakes but this is normal. But after one month we have to improve our play."
Chelsea's play at times looked sluggish but Ancelotti refused to blame the demands of the midweek international programme for the performance.
Some of his key players -- notably Frank Lampard -- looked below their best, but the manager claimed his side's problems were caused by Hull's efforts in closing down and not by the round of national call-ups three days before the season kicked off.
Lampard, along with skipper John Terry, had played the full 90 minutes of England's 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, while leftback Ashley Cole was replaced just six minutes from time.
And Ancelotti said: "I didn't speak with Fabio Capello about the players before the England game. I want to help his work, give him players in good condition.
"It's not a problem because Ashley, John and Frank have come back without injuries. A lot of players have played for their countries. The most important factor against Hull was the lack of space.
"Frank was playing in a difficult position because when the opposition plays a solid defensive line it's more difficult for him to play."
Drogba's contribution proved the difference between the two teams and prevented Hull repeating their success of last February when they claimed a point a Stamford Bridge. --
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Bolt vs Gay duel headlines Berlin meet
THE mouth-watering sprint duel between Usain Bolt and Tyson Gay will headline the World Athletics Championships here, offering up what should be one of the most eagerly awaited events ever.
Bolt took the Beijing Olympics by storm last summer, the towering, laidback Jamaican winning the double gold sprint and also claiming gold as part of Jamaica’s 4x100m relay team, all won — amazingly — in world record times.
He has continued his impressive form into this season, but the year’s best marks in both the 100 and 200m races (9.77 and 19.58 respectively) have been set by arch-rival Gay, the American who endured a miserable Olympics after rushing back from a debilitating hamstring injury.
Gay is also the runner with the world credentials, having emulated Bolt’s triple gold feat at the last world championships in Osaka two years ago.
The duo have, to the delight of their agents ahead of a showcase competition, avoided each other so far this season, but the Jamaican who claims to have been performing only at 85 per cent of his capability has displayed levels of confidence expected of sprinters.
“I would love to do better than the Olympics, just going out there and winning is enough for me,” said the 22-year-old, who is looking to break his own 100m world record of 9.69 when he takes to the track today.
“Expectations are going to be higher here than Beijing, but I am ready to go and do my best. I know what I did there and I know the high responsibility which comes with it, I am working hard to do better than last year.
“I have no problems, I am in good shape and itching to race now.”
At the Osaka worlds in 2007, Gay spearheaded the US team to the top of the overall table, matching a meet record with 14 titles.
Kenya came second with five, thanks to their incomparable distance runners, with Russia in third. — AFP
Bolt took the Beijing Olympics by storm last summer, the towering, laidback Jamaican winning the double gold sprint and also claiming gold as part of Jamaica’s 4x100m relay team, all won — amazingly — in world record times.
He has continued his impressive form into this season, but the year’s best marks in both the 100 and 200m races (9.77 and 19.58 respectively) have been set by arch-rival Gay, the American who endured a miserable Olympics after rushing back from a debilitating hamstring injury.
Gay is also the runner with the world credentials, having emulated Bolt’s triple gold feat at the last world championships in Osaka two years ago.
The duo have, to the delight of their agents ahead of a showcase competition, avoided each other so far this season, but the Jamaican who claims to have been performing only at 85 per cent of his capability has displayed levels of confidence expected of sprinters.“I would love to do better than the Olympics, just going out there and winning is enough for me,” said the 22-year-old, who is looking to break his own 100m world record of 9.69 when he takes to the track today.
“Expectations are going to be higher here than Beijing, but I am ready to go and do my best. I know what I did there and I know the high responsibility which comes with it, I am working hard to do better than last year.
“I have no problems, I am in good shape and itching to race now.”
At the Osaka worlds in 2007, Gay spearheaded the US team to the top of the overall table, matching a meet record with 14 titles.
Kenya came second with five, thanks to their incomparable distance runners, with Russia in third. — AFP
Friday, August 14, 2009
Football: Goal-shy strikers a worry for Rajagobal
POOR finishing continues to be the Achilles' heel of the national Under-23 squad after firing blanks against Kenya in Shah Alam on Wednesday.
The strikers have become a worry for national coach K. Rajagobal, having failed to find the back of the net in their last four matches against international opposition.
Excluding the 3-1 win over Kedah last Saturday, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha was the last Under-23 striker to score in the 4-0 win over Zimbabwe's Monomotapa United on July 12.
The second win over the Zimbabweans two days later came courtesy of senior defender V. Thirumurugan's solitary strike while Amri Yahyah, a senior squad attacker, bagged both goals against English Premier League champions Manchester United in a 3-2 defeat on July 18.
Malaysia failed to score in the second United match and after another listless performance by strikers Norshahrul and Zaquan Adha Radzak against Kenya, national coach K. Rajagobal is looking for an improvement against China tomorrow.
"Going department by department, there are so many areas where a lot of things need to be done.
"The finishing was not sharp and we lacked the killer instinct. We had the opportunity to score in the second half but didn't take our chances and Norshahrul also had a good chance in the first half but he hesitated," said Rajagobal after the 0-0 draw at the Shah Alam Stadium.
Rajagobal however was full of praise for the back-four of Aidil Zafuan Abdul Radzak, Muslim Ahmad, Azmi Muslim and Mahali Jasuli.
"I was expecting a tough match and Kenya were strong and physical. The match started at a high pace and intensity but we moved the ball around comfortably and I have to give credit to my players, especially the defence.
"For a young team we were well organised, it was a spirited display and we showed strong character. I'm happy with the draw," said Rajagobal, who is using the series of matches to prepare the side for the Laos Sea Games in December.
The coach ruled out any significant addition to his squad for the China friendly in Shah Alam tomorrow even after Norshahrul hobbled off with a suspected ankle injury.
"We only have a few days to prepare for China and most of the (state and club) teams have only just resumed training so there is no point in calling up anyone."
Farderin Kadir, Ahmad Shakir Ali and Ahmad Fakri Saarani are the other strikers in the squad.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
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Home / Transfer News & Transfer Rumours
2008/2009 Transfers | 2009/2010 Transfers
AC Milan is a ‘special place’ for Huntelaar
August 7, 2009
New AC Milan signing Klaas Jan Huntelaar has admitted that his new club is a ‘special place’ for the Dutch. Huntelaar completed a £12.5million move from Real Madrid to AC Milan on Thursday. “Milan is a very special place for the Dutch. Van Basten... Read more »
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Arsenal interest in Hangeland a source of worry for Hodgson
August 7, 2009
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson has admitted he is concerned by rivals Arsenal’s interest in Norwegian defender Brede Hangeland. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger revealed yesterday that Hangeland was one of the players that he is interested in. Hodgson said on... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Twente confirms Arna departure
August 6, 2009
Dutch side FC Twente have confirmed they have reached an agreement with Inter Milan about striker Marko Arnautovic. The 20-year-old will join Inter Milan on loan but the Nerazurri will have the option to buy him. “FC Twente and Inter Milan have agreed... Read more »
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Totti admits Aquilani will be missed
August 6, 2009
Roma ace Francesco Totti has admitted that midfielder Alberto Aquilani will be missed at the club. Aquilani completed his move from Roma to Premier League giants Liverpool in a £18million deal earlier this week. “It is a shame to lose Alberto. Along... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Robben rules out Spurs move
August 5, 2009
Real Madrid winger Arjen Robben has ruled out a move to Premier League side Tottenham. The Dutchman insists he will only leave the Santiago Bernabeu to join a club playing in the Champions League. “With all the respect in the world, I have decided... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, La Liga, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Sneijder could stay at Real
August 4, 2009
Real Madrid director Jorge Valdano has admitted to Spanish radio that Wesley Sneijder is part of Manuel Pellegrini’s plans at the club. The Dutchman has long been linked with a move to Italian giants Inter Milan. Sneijder has also been the subject... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, La Liga, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | 2 Comments
Phillips happy at Birmingham
August 4, 2009
Birmingham striker Kevin Phillips insists he is determined to stay and fight for his place at the club. Phillips has been linked with a move to Leicester City, but the veteran striker wants to stay at St. Andrews. “It’s news to me these stories,... Read more »
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Swedish youngster handed United trial
August 3, 2009
Swedish starlet Linus Sjoberg has been handed a trial at Manchester United. The 15-year-old midfielder will join United on a trial later this summer after being spotted by United’s scouts in Scandinavia. “You have to be cautious dealing with the... Read more »
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What is the best bit of business done so far?
August 3, 2009
As we are well into the summer transfer window I thought we should look at what the best bit of business has been so far. The first big move of the summer was the signing of former world player of the year Kaka from AC Milan by Real Madrid. The second... Read more »
Filed Under Editorial, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | 2 Comments
Birmingham hoping for Traore deal
August 2, 2009
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has admitted that he is hoping to be signing Armand Traore from Arsenal on a loan deal. But McLeish insists he has alternative targets if the Gunners does not want to let the full-back go. “I don’t want to upset... Read more »
Filed Under English Championship, English Premier League, General Soccer News, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Roma denies Roma contact
August 2, 2009
Monaco goalkeeper Flavio Roma has denied that there has been contact with Italian side Roma over a move. Roma are searching for an understudy to Alexander Doni. “At the moment, I haven’t had any contact from Roma,” he told Romagiallorossa.com. “My... Read more »
Filed Under General Soccer News, Ligue 1, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Daprela happy with West Ham move
August 1, 2009
Swiss defender Fabio Daprela has admitted that he is delighted to be joining Premier League side West Ham. The 18-year-old has completed his move from Grasshopper Club Zurich to West Ham for an undisclosed fee. Daprela has signed a five-year contract... Read more »
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Elano leaving the Premier League is a shame
July 31, 2009
One of the biggest disappointments for me over recent years in the English Premier League is that we never got to see enough of the Brazilian midfielder Elano. Yesterday Galatasaray completed the signing of Elano from Manchester City to bring an end to... Read more »
Filed Under Editorial, English Premier League, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | 3 Comments
Valencia will not sell Silva
July 31, 2009
Valencia president Manuel Llorente insists the club will not sell David Silva this summer. The Spain international has been linked with a summer move to the Premier League. Liverpool and Manchester United are reported to be among the clubs interested... Read more »
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Mido returns to Egypt
July 31, 2009
Middlesbrough forward Mido has joined Egyptian giants Zamalek on a season-long loan deal. The 26-year-old could make the move permanent at the end of his loan period. Boro will get an initial £4million and could pocket a further £1million if the move... Read more »
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Finnan joins Portsmouth
July 31, 2009
Portsmouth have completed the signing of the Republic of Ireland international Steve Finnan. The former Fulham and Liverpool star has signed a one-year deal with the Premier League side. Finnan failed to settle at Espanyol last season and his contract... Read more »
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Time for Rafa to release Alonso
July 30, 2009
It’s the longest running transfer saga of the summer and it finally looks as though Xabi Alonso will leave Liverpool. The Spain midfielder has been the subject of interest from Spanish football side Real Madrid for the last few months and despite... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | 1 Comment
Bolton boss will not make new Veloso bid
July 30, 2009
Bolton boss Gary Megson insists the club will not make a new bid to sign Portugal international Miguel Veloso from Sporting Lisbon. The Trotters tried to sign Veloso in the January transfer window and has been linked with a new move for the midfielder. Reports... Read more »
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Elano joins Galatasaray
July 30, 2009
Brazilian playmaker Elano has completed a move to Turkish club Galatasaray, the club has confirmed. Italian rivals AC Milan and Inter were reported to be interested in Elano, but the Brazilian international has now agreed to join Galatasaray. Sky Sports... Read more »
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Cribari keen on Palermo move
July 30, 2009
Brazilian ace Emilson Cribari’s agten, Davide Torchia, has revealed that his client would be keen on a summer move to Palermo. Lazio are reported to be interested in selling several of their defenders this summer. “It isn’t clear whether Cribari... Read more »
Filed Under General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Niemi confirm Pompey talks
July 29, 2009
Antti Niemi has confirmed he is in talks with Portsmouth about a move to the club. But the 37-year-old has denied that he has agreed a one-year contract with the club. Pompey are keen to bring in Niemi as cover for England international goalkeeper David... Read more »
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Parma confirm Bojinov interest
July 29, 2009
Parma have confirmed they are interested in signing Manchester City striker Valeri Bojinov. The Italian side is keen on bringing the Bularian ace to Italy in a loan deal. Reports suggest City will allow Bojinov to leave on loan, following the arrivals... Read more »
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Juan will not join Fiorentina
July 29, 2009
Roma sporting director Daniele Prade has rubbished rumours suggesting defender Juan is set to join rivals Fiorentina. Reports suggest Fiorentina sporting director Pantaleo Corvino is keen on signing the Brazilian this summer. “I have not had any... Read more »
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Lavezzi to stay at Napoli
July 28, 2009
Argentine star Ezequiel Lavezzi’s agent insists the forward will remain loyal to Napoli. Lavezzi has previously this summer admitted that he would be keen on leaving the club. “Ezequiel Lavezzi has returned to Napoli to prepare with the team in Austria,”... Read more »
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Di Natale pledges future to Udinese
July 28, 2009
Italy international Antonio Di Natale has admitted that he wants to end his career at Udinese. Di Natale has been linked with both Roma, Parma and Napoli in recent months but Udinese have managed to keep him at the club. “When I signed my four-year... Read more »
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70000 Barcelona fans came to greet Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Video)
July 28, 2009
After completing his medical Monday evening, Zlatan Ibrahimovic finally became a Barcelona player. He signed a five-year deal with the club. The same evening, Zlatan Ibrahimovic was formally unveiled as a FC Barcelona player in front of an amazing 70000... Read more »
Filed Under General Soccer News, La Liga, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours, Videos | 1 Comment
Spurs admits ‘serious’ Huntelaar interest
July 27, 2009
Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has revealed that his interest in signing Real Madrid striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is ‘serious’. Peter Crouch seems to be close to joining Spurs in a £10million, but it is believed Redknapp is still keen on... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, La Liga, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Olofinjana ponders future
July 27, 2009
Stoke City midfielder Seyi Olofinjana has admitted that he wants his future to be resolved by the end of the week. The 29-year-old has been linked with a £2.5million move to French side Monaco. Olofinjana fell out of favour at Stoke after joining the... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Ligue 1, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Vucinic’s agent denies Arsenal talks
July 27, 2009
Mirko Vucinic’s agent has rejected reports that Premier League side Arsenal have made a €20million bid for the forward. The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from Roma, despite extending his contract until 2013 last month. “There has... Read more »
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Barca ready to spend more
July 26, 2009
Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola has revealed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is likely not to be their last signing this summer. The Catalan giants are close to signing the Swedish striker after reaching an agreement with Inter Milan. “I don’t think... Read more »
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Home / Transfer News & Transfer Rumours
2008/2009 Transfers | 2009/2010 Transfers
AC Milan is a ‘special place’ for Huntelaar
August 7, 2009
New AC Milan signing Klaas Jan Huntelaar has admitted that his new club is a ‘special place’ for the Dutch. Huntelaar completed a £12.5million move from Real Madrid to AC Milan on Thursday. “Milan is a very special place for the Dutch. Van Basten... Read more »
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Arsenal interest in Hangeland a source of worry for Hodgson
August 7, 2009
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson has admitted he is concerned by rivals Arsenal’s interest in Norwegian defender Brede Hangeland. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger revealed yesterday that Hangeland was one of the players that he is interested in. Hodgson said on... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Twente confirms Arna departure
August 6, 2009
Dutch side FC Twente have confirmed they have reached an agreement with Inter Milan about striker Marko Arnautovic. The 20-year-old will join Inter Milan on loan but the Nerazurri will have the option to buy him. “FC Twente and Inter Milan have agreed... Read more »
Filed Under Eredivisie, General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Totti admits Aquilani will be missed
August 6, 2009
Roma ace Francesco Totti has admitted that midfielder Alberto Aquilani will be missed at the club. Aquilani completed his move from Roma to Premier League giants Liverpool in a £18million deal earlier this week. “It is a shame to lose Alberto. Along... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Robben rules out Spurs move
August 5, 2009
Real Madrid winger Arjen Robben has ruled out a move to Premier League side Tottenham. The Dutchman insists he will only leave the Santiago Bernabeu to join a club playing in the Champions League. “With all the respect in the world, I have decided... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, La Liga, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Sneijder could stay at Real
August 4, 2009
Real Madrid director Jorge Valdano has admitted to Spanish radio that Wesley Sneijder is part of Manuel Pellegrini’s plans at the club. The Dutchman has long been linked with a move to Italian giants Inter Milan. Sneijder has also been the subject... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, La Liga, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | 2 Comments
Phillips happy at Birmingham
August 4, 2009
Birmingham striker Kevin Phillips insists he is determined to stay and fight for his place at the club. Phillips has been linked with a move to Leicester City, but the veteran striker wants to stay at St. Andrews. “It’s news to me these stories,... Read more »
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Swedish youngster handed United trial
August 3, 2009
Swedish starlet Linus Sjoberg has been handed a trial at Manchester United. The 15-year-old midfielder will join United on a trial later this summer after being spotted by United’s scouts in Scandinavia. “You have to be cautious dealing with the... Read more »
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What is the best bit of business done so far?
August 3, 2009
As we are well into the summer transfer window I thought we should look at what the best bit of business has been so far. The first big move of the summer was the signing of former world player of the year Kaka from AC Milan by Real Madrid. The second... Read more »
Filed Under Editorial, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | 2 Comments
Birmingham hoping for Traore deal
August 2, 2009
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has admitted that he is hoping to be signing Armand Traore from Arsenal on a loan deal. But McLeish insists he has alternative targets if the Gunners does not want to let the full-back go. “I don’t want to upset... Read more »
Filed Under English Championship, English Premier League, General Soccer News, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Roma denies Roma contact
August 2, 2009
Monaco goalkeeper Flavio Roma has denied that there has been contact with Italian side Roma over a move. Roma are searching for an understudy to Alexander Doni. “At the moment, I haven’t had any contact from Roma,” he told Romagiallorossa.com. “My... Read more »
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Daprela happy with West Ham move
August 1, 2009
Swiss defender Fabio Daprela has admitted that he is delighted to be joining Premier League side West Ham. The 18-year-old has completed his move from Grasshopper Club Zurich to West Ham for an undisclosed fee. Daprela has signed a five-year contract... Read more »
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Elano leaving the Premier League is a shame
July 31, 2009
One of the biggest disappointments for me over recent years in the English Premier League is that we never got to see enough of the Brazilian midfielder Elano. Yesterday Galatasaray completed the signing of Elano from Manchester City to bring an end to... Read more »
Filed Under Editorial, English Premier League, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | 3 Comments
Valencia will not sell Silva
July 31, 2009
Valencia president Manuel Llorente insists the club will not sell David Silva this summer. The Spain international has been linked with a summer move to the Premier League. Liverpool and Manchester United are reported to be among the clubs interested... Read more »
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Mido returns to Egypt
July 31, 2009
Middlesbrough forward Mido has joined Egyptian giants Zamalek on a season-long loan deal. The 26-year-old could make the move permanent at the end of his loan period. Boro will get an initial £4million and could pocket a further £1million if the move... Read more »
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Finnan joins Portsmouth
July 31, 2009
Portsmouth have completed the signing of the Republic of Ireland international Steve Finnan. The former Fulham and Liverpool star has signed a one-year deal with the Premier League side. Finnan failed to settle at Espanyol last season and his contract... Read more »
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Time for Rafa to release Alonso
July 30, 2009
It’s the longest running transfer saga of the summer and it finally looks as though Xabi Alonso will leave Liverpool. The Spain midfielder has been the subject of interest from Spanish football side Real Madrid for the last few months and despite... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | 1 Comment
Bolton boss will not make new Veloso bid
July 30, 2009
Bolton boss Gary Megson insists the club will not make a new bid to sign Portugal international Miguel Veloso from Sporting Lisbon. The Trotters tried to sign Veloso in the January transfer window and has been linked with a new move for the midfielder. Reports... Read more »
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Elano joins Galatasaray
July 30, 2009
Brazilian playmaker Elano has completed a move to Turkish club Galatasaray, the club has confirmed. Italian rivals AC Milan and Inter were reported to be interested in Elano, but the Brazilian international has now agreed to join Galatasaray. Sky Sports... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Cribari keen on Palermo move
July 30, 2009
Brazilian ace Emilson Cribari’s agten, Davide Torchia, has revealed that his client would be keen on a summer move to Palermo. Lazio are reported to be interested in selling several of their defenders this summer. “It isn’t clear whether Cribari... Read more »
Filed Under General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Niemi confirm Pompey talks
July 29, 2009
Antti Niemi has confirmed he is in talks with Portsmouth about a move to the club. But the 37-year-old has denied that he has agreed a one-year contract with the club. Pompey are keen to bring in Niemi as cover for England international goalkeeper David... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Parma confirm Bojinov interest
July 29, 2009
Parma have confirmed they are interested in signing Manchester City striker Valeri Bojinov. The Italian side is keen on bringing the Bularian ace to Italy in a loan deal. Reports suggest City will allow Bojinov to leave on loan, following the arrivals... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Juan will not join Fiorentina
July 29, 2009
Roma sporting director Daniele Prade has rubbished rumours suggesting defender Juan is set to join rivals Fiorentina. Reports suggest Fiorentina sporting director Pantaleo Corvino is keen on signing the Brazilian this summer. “I have not had any... Read more »
Filed Under General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Lavezzi to stay at Napoli
July 28, 2009
Argentine star Ezequiel Lavezzi’s agent insists the forward will remain loyal to Napoli. Lavezzi has previously this summer admitted that he would be keen on leaving the club. “Ezequiel Lavezzi has returned to Napoli to prepare with the team in Austria,”... Read more »
Filed Under General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Di Natale pledges future to Udinese
July 28, 2009
Italy international Antonio Di Natale has admitted that he wants to end his career at Udinese. Di Natale has been linked with both Roma, Parma and Napoli in recent months but Udinese have managed to keep him at the club. “When I signed my four-year... Read more »
Filed Under General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
70000 Barcelona fans came to greet Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Video)
July 28, 2009
After completing his medical Monday evening, Zlatan Ibrahimovic finally became a Barcelona player. He signed a five-year deal with the club. The same evening, Zlatan Ibrahimovic was formally unveiled as a FC Barcelona player in front of an amazing 70000... Read more »
Filed Under General Soccer News, La Liga, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours, Videos | 1 Comment
Spurs admits ‘serious’ Huntelaar interest
July 27, 2009
Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has revealed that his interest in signing Real Madrid striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is ‘serious’. Peter Crouch seems to be close to joining Spurs in a £10million, but it is believed Redknapp is still keen on... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, La Liga, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Olofinjana ponders future
July 27, 2009
Stoke City midfielder Seyi Olofinjana has admitted that he wants his future to be resolved by the end of the week. The 29-year-old has been linked with a £2.5million move to French side Monaco. Olofinjana fell out of favour at Stoke after joining the... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Ligue 1, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Vucinic’s agent denies Arsenal talks
July 27, 2009
Mirko Vucinic’s agent has rejected reports that Premier League side Arsenal have made a €20million bid for the forward. The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from Roma, despite extending his contract until 2013 last month. “There has... Read more »
Filed Under English Premier League, General Soccer News, Serie A, Transfer News & Transfer Rumours | Leave a Comment
Barca ready to spend more
July 26, 2009
Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola has revealed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is likely not to be their last signing this summer. The Catalan giants are close to signing the Swedish striker after reaching an agreement with Inter Milan. “I don’t think... Read more »
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
England start World Cup countdown
AMSTERDAM: Fabio Capello expects England to start their countdown to the World Cup by vindicating his decision to leave Michael Owen out of the squad for today's friendly against the Netherlands.
| Wayne Rooney (left) is enjoying the best form of his England career under Fabio Capello. |
With the start of the Premier League campaign coming just three days after England's trip to Amsterdam, it would be understandable if Capello's players weren't fully focused on their international commitments.
But the England coach has just 10 months to prepare for next year's World Cup in South Africa and every minute with his squad is vital.
After winning all seven of their World Cup qualifiers, England can clinch their place at the finals with a victory over Croatia at Wembley on Sept 9, so the Netherlands match is anything but a meaningless friendly to Capello.
The Italian will use the clash at Ajax's Amsterdam Arena to test his belief that Emile Heskey is the perfect partner for Wayne Rooney, while continuing the development of Steven Gerrard's role on the left wing.
Capello will also run the rule over his reserve goalkeepers in the absence of injured first choice David James.
Frank Lampard, a key member of Capello's midfield, has no doubt that the fixture can play a significant part in England's preparations for the final stages of their qualifying campaign and also the World Cup itself.
"It's important for us and our manager to see where the players are," Lampard said. "You never know who's fit, so it's nice to have a gathering with the big games coming next month.
"It would be great to have a good performance and to win as well, but the performance is what you want to take into the qualifiers."
Capello has been able to use England's friendly matches to decide that the best way to allow Manchester United forward Rooney to thrive is to pair him with a more imposing targetman such as Aston Villa's Heskey.
Rooney's form over the last year suggests Capello is right and the Italian shows no signs of changing his mind about casting Owen into international exile.
Owen's poor finishing in United's recent friendly against Valencia did little to change Capello's feeling that the former Liverpool player's star is waning.
Yet Jermain Defoe and Carlton Cole, the forwards picked ahead of Owen, have done little in an England shirt to suggest they could change the course of a World Cup match.
And even Rooney admits his new Manchester United teammate would be a useful player to have around.
"I do see Michael getting back into the England side," Rooney said.
"Obviously it is the manager's decision but he has looked really sharp in pre-season and I am sure if he maintains that form, it won't be long before he is back in the squad." -- AFP
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
BWF World Championships: Chong Wei, Mew Choo in cruise control
LEE Chong Wei began his bid for the World Championships title in a relaxed manner by cruising into the second round at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad yesterday.
| Wong Mew Choo beat American Shannon Pohl 21-4, 21-6 to advance to the second round. — AFPpic |
Chong Wei, the top seed, was not in top gear as he took his time to adjust to the conditions at the venue before securing a 21-14, 21-10 victory over Germany's Dieter Domke in 25 minutes.
Although Chong Wei managed to seize control of the match, he made a number of unforced errors that he must avoid repeating in the later part of the championships.
It will be another easy encounter for Chong Wei tomorrow where he will play Nigeria's Ola Fagbemi in the second round.
Chong Wei said he, incidentally, was playing in the same court where he lost his first round match to Chen Long of China in the India Open in April. But that didn't affect his performance yesterday.
"I made several unforced errors but this being my first match here, those things are expected. Otherwise, everything is under control," said Chong Wei.
"I'm also slowly adapting to the draught here and the court conditions. As far as the security is concerned, we are being looked after well.
"This is the same court where I lost in the first round of the India Open but that wasn't playing on my mind. I am looking forward to getting better by each match."
Women's singles Wong Mew Choo began her campaign convincingly by thrashing Shannon Pohl of the United States 21-4, 21-6 in 19 minutes.
She is expected to face a tougher battle against Japan's Ai Goto, who was untested in her 21-9, 21-13 win over Chloe Magee of Scotland, in the second round tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Netherland's Dicky Palyama sent a warning to the top shuttlers after defeating China's Bao Chunlai 21-18, 21-14 in 36 minutes to advance to the second round.
"There was no pressure on me and I played freely," said Palyama, an Indonesian who migrated to Netherlands as junior to seek a better fortune, after his victory.
"I knew Bao is a tough opponent, but my coach told me to keep cool. I knew I had a chance to win the match when I was leading in the second game."
Two-time World Champion Lin Dan of China didn't suffer first round jitters as he secured a commanding 21-9, 21-11 win over Misha Zilberman of Israel in his opening match.
Lin Dan will play Thailand's Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk, who thrashed Malaysian Lee Tsuen Seng 21-7, 21-13 in 25 minutes, in the second round on Wednesday.
"I don't consider myself as a favourite. I think Peter Gade (Christensen) and Chong Wei are favourites," said Lin Dan.
"The shuttle was coming a bit slow, but these things happen and one's got to adapt to the conditions. I've had a decent start now and I'm not thinking beyond my next match."
Christensen secured a 21-11, 21-16 win over Valeriy Atrashchenkov of Ukraine and will play Shoji Sato of Japan in the second round.
In the mixed doubles, Razif Latif-Woon Khe Wei suffered an embarrassing 21-17, 9-21, 21-17 defeat in 29 minutes to Ukraine's Valeriy Atrashchenkov-Elen Prus in the opening round.
Back-up pair Lim Yin Loo-Marylen Pang's campaign also ended in the first round after crashing 21-8, 21-16 to Shizuka Matsuo-Mami Naito of Japan.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Spot-on Chelsea beat United in feisty Wembley clash
Spot-on Chelsea beat United in feisty Wembley clash
2009/08/10
LONDON: Chelsea and Manchester United launched the English season in explosive fashion as the Blues' 4-1 penalty shoot-out win in yesterday's Community Shield was marred by an ugly clash between Michael Ballack and Patrice Evra.
With United keen to prove a point to the critics questioning their ability to cope without Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez and Chelsea trying to impress new boss Carlo Ancelotti, there was a definite edge to a match that finished 2-2 after 90 minutes.
The bubbling tension boiled over in the second half when United defender Evra fell to the Wembley turf in pain after a cynical body-check from Chelsea substitute Ballack.
Referee Chris Foy waved play on but United's players wanted Chelsea to kick the ball out so Evra could get treatment.
Chelsea refused and Frank Lampard took advantage to score, much to the frustration of Evra who became involved in a row with Ashley Cole and then scythed down Ballack to earn a booking.
Sir Alex Ferguson's team had taken an early lead when Nani drove home from the edge of the area. Ricardo Carvalho equalised after half-time before Lampard's controversial strike, but Wayne Rooney levelled for United in stoppage time.
After a disappointing start to his career at Old Trafford, Nani has the chance to make amends this year. Ronaldo's departure has opened up a berth for the Portuguese winger on the left and he gave a glimpse of his potential with a fine strike to put United ahead in the 10th minute.
Collecting Darren Fletcher's long pass, Nani shifted away from Bransilav Ivanovic and Michael Essien before firing in a powerful drive that flashed past unsighted keeper Petr Cech into the far corner.
If Cech could have done better with that one, there was no questioning his agility when he plunged to his left to claw away Park Ji-Sung's shot and then kept out Dimitar Berbatov's flicked effort.
Just as he did at Milan, Ancelotti used a midfield diamond formation that saw Frank Lampard deployed just behind Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka, while John Obi Mikel shielded the back four.
But the system may need some work judging by the way United, and Nani in particular, were able to find holes in Chelsea's defence in the first half.
United goalkeeper Ben Foster, selected ahead of Tomasz Kuszczak as the stand-in for the injured Edwin van der Sar, had a chance to underline his England credentials, but he looked nervous at times and twice dallied dangerously over back-passes when a quick clearance was needed.
Fletcher's curling effort forced a brilliant tip-over from Cech before half-time, but it took Chelsea just seven minutes of the second half to equalise.
When Florent Malouda lobbed a cross towards Drogba, the Ivory Coast striker collided with Foster and accidently floored the United keeper, giving Carvalho time and space to direct a diving header into the empty net.
Lampard's controversial strike arrived in the 70th minute. Ballack clearly blocked off Evra but Foy didn't give the foul and Chelsea broke through Drogba, whose pass allowed Lampard to drive home via a post.
United protested furiously that play should have been stopped as Evra had a head injury and the French star became involved in an argument with Blues defender Ashley Cole.
Evra was clearly incensed and made a crude attempt to seek revenge on Ballack with a lunging tackle that earned a booking.
That wasn't the end of the drama. With just a minute of stoppage time to go, Rooney ran onto a Ryan Giggs pass, held off Jose Bosingwa and planted a low shot past Cech to send the match to penalties.
Cech saved from Giggs in the shoot-out and then easily kept out Evra's weak effort before Salomon Kalou slammed home the winner. -- AFP
Friday, August 7, 2009
Back-up duo Sabrina, Khe Wei hope to be nation’s No. 1 one day
KUALA LUMPUR: Women’s doubles shuttlerSabrina Chong Sook Chin will be renewing her partnership with Woon Khe Wei at the World Championships, which will begin in Hyderabad, India, on Monday.
And the back-up shuttlers hope to take over as the nation’s No. 1 pair when current world No. 1 Chin Eei Hui-Wong Pei Tty retire one day.
Sabrina-Khe Wei will leave for Hyderabad today to compete intheir first world meet.
Sabrina and Khe Wei will also feature in the mixed doubles event with Ong Jien Guo and Mohd Razif Abdul Latif respectively.
The 22-year-old Sabrina admitted that it would be a tall order for them to clear the opening round, insisting they were instead looking beyond the world meet.
They have been drawn to play South Korea’s top pair and third seeds Lee Kyung-won-Lee Hyo-jung in the second round, which will be an opening round match for both pairs.
“We know our opponents will be far too strong for us. But we have trained hard and we will give our best. We are not scared of them,” said Sabrina. She hoped that the experience of playing in their first world meet would give them the confidence to strengthen their partnership.
“I used to partner Khe Wei a long time ago. But we were split up. Then, we came together because I had to replace the injured Goh Liu Ying in the Uber Cup Finals (in Jakarta last year),” said Sabrina.
“We parted ways again this year. Later, we found out that we had qualified for the world meet and our coach decided to keep us together. We play well as a pair. We hope to be one of the top women’s pairs in the country. For now, Eei Hui-Pei Tty are the best and we want to narrow that gap.”
The other women’s doubles pairs bound for the world meet are Lim Yin Loo-Marylen Ng Poau Leng and Liu Ying-Ng Hui Lin.
Khe Wei, who twisted her ankle prior to the Thailand Open last month, said it was getting better.
“There is a slight pain but I am managing well. This is my first world meet and I do not want to miss it. I am still young and I should not have any problems concentrating on both the women’s and mixed doubles events,” she said.
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