Chennaiyin FC may heap more misery on Delhi Dynamos

Chennai: After having suffered a run of six consecutive defeats in the Hero Indian Super League, Delhi Dynamos will hope for better things in the new year.

Up next for the bottom-placed side is Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai, on Sunday, and the visitors will hope their season has not ended at the half-way stage itself.

Delhi Dynamos opened their ISL campaign with a win over FC Pune City but since then it has gone horribly wrong for them. "I think we have been playing good. But we have problems in two key areas -- defence and attack. We have conceded too many cheap goals. Our set piece defending has failed us a number of times," coach Miguel Portugal told reporters during the pre-match press conference.

The Delhi coach also confirmed that star striker Kalu Uche will not be available to start the game on Sunday. "He is not fit for a start. He is not fit yet. Maybe we'll give him some game time but he will not start," said the coach.

The visitors will also not have the services of attacking midfielder Claudio Matías Mirabaje after being suspended for four games after a clash with Mumbai City FC midfielder Sehnaj Singh in the previous game.

On paper, Chennaiyin FC look clear favourites to take all three points from the game and return to the top of the table. They will not have suspended coach John Gregory on the sidelines to guide them and should be aware of their past records against Dynamos. In the last six encounters between the two sides, Delhi have won four times while Chennaiyin have taken full points just once.

Assistant coach Syed Sabir Pasha, who filled in for Gregory at the pre-match press conference, felt the absence of the coach will not have much bearing on how they approach the game.

"Delhi will be a great test for us. We have defended as a team so far and we know they will come at us looking for a win. And we have to counter that," said Pasha.

A win for Gregory's side will see them take over as league leaders. At the other end, a win for Delhi Dynamos will lift them off the foot of the table.

Time for ATK to prove their mettle in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: Just when it seemed like ATK were gaining some momentum, a series of below-par results mean that the pressure will be back on Teddy Sheringham when the defending champions take on Bengaluru FC at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru, on Sunday. 

ATK have won only two games from seven outings in the season, drawing three and losing two, scoring only six goals in their campaign so far.

Meanwhile, Bengaluru have just one blip in their last five matches. They've collected a brilliant 12 out of a possible 15 points, scoring 13 goals in the process. It's almost David vs Goliath when you see the form chart but ATK will be aware that Bengaluru have lost twice at home already. 

The game will probably be overshadowed by reports that ATK's star striker Robbie Keane has courted interest from his former club Wolverhampton Wanderers - where he shot to stardom. Wolves are eyeing promotion to the Premier League from England's second division - the Championship.

"Keane is the right person to answer this," ATK assistant coach Bastab Roy said, while affirming that the 'entire team' has travelled to Bengaluru.
Roy was particularly cagey in the press conference - hardly giving anything away. But he did say that “the team has some plans (for Bengaluru)” and they had not lost hope of making it to the last four.

"This league is very unpredictable and it is too early to say that we have lost hope. It will be decided in the last one or two games," he said.
Bengaluru have taken to the Hero Indian Super League like ducks to water. The transition from the Hero I-League has been seamless and top spot is at stake for them. A victory against ATK will take them two points clear of FC Pune City, who have played a match more. 

Albert Roca hinted that he may not chop and change his team, given the string of good performances they've given him. 

"Our performances are good and it is difficult to change the team when that happens. That said, everybody has to be alert and together. But I don't like to make too many changes and we are ready for everything," the Spaniard said. 

Bengaluru have plundered six goals in the last two matches and conceded just one. Both these games came at home and it slowly looks like they're getting into the stride for the season. 

"We lost games in the last few minutes previously and those were good lessons for us. After every game we need to see where we make mistakes and what really happened - not just players, but also myself. We have to look forward and not make the same mistakes," said Roca.

ATK's season has been one of downs more than ups, and they will need to perform out of their skins to break the rut and start climbing up the table.

NorthEast United breathe life into campaign with win over FC Goa

Guwahat: NorthEast United notched only their second win of the Hero Indian Super League's fourth season after goals from Marcinho and Seminlen Doungel helped them down FC Goa 2-1 at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Guwahati, on Saturday.

The victory means technical advisor Avram Grant starts his stint in the Hero ISL with a big upset, and keeps them in ninth position, though just one point behind Kerala Blasters.

Doungel scored the winner after Cesario's lovely through ball found him clear on goal. Goa goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani steamed off his line in what seemed a rash decision and Doungel clipped it over him expertly. 

Marcinho had opened the scoring with a delightfully taken goal in the 20th minute. Cesario's cross was behind him, but the Brazilian reached out to bring it down with some fine control, and set himself up for the side's first goal at home. A deflection helped him but he had earned his luck.

The home side's joy didn't last too long though. The flag stayed down when Pronay Halder found space on the left wing and his lofted cross was turned in by Manuel Arana, after what looked like a clear handball from Jose Goncalves. In the end though, it was NorthEast who had the last laugh. 

The teams were locked 1-1 at the breather.

The second half took right off from where the first half had ended - when Doungel found space down the right channel but was confused between pulling it back for Cesario or taking a shot. He chose the latter but it went straight at Kattimani. 

It was at the hour mark when the drama really began. A back-pass resulted in an indirect free-kick for NorthEast from the edge of the six yard box but the shot was blocked. Cesario had the next chance, but his attempt to place the shot in the far corner was wide. 

Ten minutes later, Lanzarote delivered a sumptuous cross from the left but this time Arana could not tap it in. The frustration got worse for the visitors when Manvir Singh missed from a couple of yards out when his shot struck the post with the keeper nowhere near the goal line. 

In the 88th minute, NorthEast's defence made two off-the-line clearances and it was in that moment that they seemed unbeatable on the night.

In the first half, NorthEast dominated the first 25 odd minutes. Apart from Marcinho's goal, they had a couple of chances to increase their lead. Cesario was through on goal but tried to lob Kattimani and couldn't pull it off. This was after his shot from a tight angle was parried away. Marcinho almost turned provider in the 33rd minute when his freekick found Martin Diaz, but the glancing header was straight at the goalkeeper.

But FC Goa, like they so often do, grew into the game. Before the equaliser, they had a brilliant chance when Manuel Arana found Corominas in the box, only to see his kneed shot brilliantly saved by TP Rehenesh. The Goans could have come from behind and go in the lead at the stroke of the first half but Brandon Fernandes' left-footer was palmed over by Rehenesh at the near post.

Coutinho set to join Barcelona

BARCELONA: Barcelona and Liverpool have agreed a deal in principle to allow Philippe Coutinho to move to the Spanish giants for 120 million euros ($144 million), a report said.

Barcelona-based Sport newspaper said Coutinho would join Barca this month on a deal for five seasons, although it said the details of the deal were still to be finalised.


Coutinho's departure would be a blow to Liverpool, but it would allow Barcelona to move on from the bitter experience of losing his Brazil teammate Neymar last summer to Qatar-backed Paris Saint-Germain for a world record 222 million euros.

Coutinho's age - he is 25 - is also attractive to Barca, whose three main stars, Lionel, Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta are all in their thirties.


French sport daily L'Equipe reported on Saturday that Liverpool were lining up Leicester's Riyad Mahrez to replace Coutinho, although other reports have indicated that the Merseyside club would prefer to acquire Thomas Lemar from Monaco.

Source: News Agency

Roger Federer remains unbeaten at Hopman Cup

PERTH : Roger Federer's perfect start to the New Year continued when he dismantled the game of world number four Alexander Zverev in the final of the mixed teams Hopman Cup in Perth on Saturday.

Unbeaten in his three singles matches in the tournament prior to the final as he prepared for his Australian Open title defence, the 19-time Grand Slam champion dropped the first set against Zverev, but recovered to win in three sets, 6-7 (4/7), 6-0, 6-2.

It gave Switzerland a 1-0 lead in the final, with Federer aiming to add to the title he won in Perth with Martina Hingis in 2001.

Zverev came out all guns blazing in a high-intensity first set where both players produced moments of brilliance, with both holding multiple break points.

However, the young German managed to prevail in the tie-breaker as he aimed to repeat his singles win over Federer at the Hopman Cup last year, when all three sets were decided by tie-breakers.

Federer's frustration was obvious, dropping his racquet after missing an easy volley and then launching a ball towards the roof.

However, it soon passed as he started to blunt the German's power and his superior court craft turned the momentum.

Federer took pace off his shots and used the drop shot repeatedly to catch Zverev out, racing through the second set.

The German was the one who lost his cool as the match slipped away, copping a code violation for an audible obscenity after disputing the chair umpire's decision to replay a Zverev serve in the second set.

Zverev's serve, and resolve, was broken in the third game of the third set and fittingly it was a Federer drop shot which sealed the win.

"I played great throughout the three sets and Sasha probably dropped his level a little bit in the second and third sets," he said.

Source: News Agency

Chennaiyin FC coach suspended for 3 matches, fined Rs 4 lakh

CHENNAI: Chennaiyin FC head coach John Gregory has been suspended for three matches and fined Rs four lakh for making offensive remarks against the referee during his side's Indian Super League match against Jamshedpur FC last month.

The Chennai team had won the match 1-0 on December 28. The suspension comes into immediate effect, the ISL said in a statement.

All India Football Federation's disciplinary committee found Gregory in breach of Article 50 (misconduct against match officials) and Article 58 (offensive behaviour and fair play) for his offensive remarks against the referee during the match against Jamshedpur FC at JRD Tata Sports Complex, the statement added.

Meanwhile, the ISL, in another statement said Claudio Matias of Delhi Dynamos FC and Sehnaj Singh of Mumbai City FC have been suspended for four and two matches respectively for their club's upcoming games owing to disciplinary reasons.

Matias has also been fined Rs three lakh and Sehnaj Singh Rs two lakh, the statement said.

The AIFF disciplinary committee found Matias and Sehnaj Singh in violation of Article 48 (serious infringement) and Article 49 (misconduct against opponents or persons other than official) during the match between Mumbai City FC and Delhi Dynamos in Mumbai on December 29.

Source: News Agencies

Khawaja leads the way as Australia take lead against England

SYDNEY: Usman Khawaja plundered a big century as Australia roasted England's bowlers on Saturday to open up a 133-run lead with two days to play in the final Ashes Test in Sydney.

Khawaja top scored with 171 while Shaun Marsh finished unbeaten on 98 after Steve Smith fell for 83 as Australia built a substantial lead with more runs to come and intense 40 Celsius (104 F) heat forecast for Sunday's fourth day.

Australia have already regained the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead and are looking to close out the series 4-0 after last week's fourth test in Melbourne was drawn.

At the close of play on a dispiriting third day for the tourists, who took just two wickets, brothers Shaun and Mitchell Marsh were making merry in an unbroken 104-run partnership as Australia cruised to 479 for four.

Mitchell Marsh clubbed Moeen Ali for two sixes in three balls to be 63 not out off 87 balls at stumps after surviving a leg before wicket review in the final overs.

Khawaja batted for 515 minutes off 381 balls with 18 fours and a six for his maiden Ashes Test hundred.

"You don't get to celebrate Test centuries too much unless you're Steve Smith. You've got to enjoy them when they come," Khawaja said.

It was the Pakistan-born Khawaja's sixth Test hundred and first in Sydney and came at a time when some former players were calling for his sacking despite scoring two half-centuries earlier in the series.

"It's disappointing," Khawaja said of the criticism.

"When I am scoring runs, I'm elegant and when I'm not scoring runs I'm lazy. Can't seem to win, when things aren't going well.

"I've had that throughout my career. It's disappointing to hear but it's something I have dealt with throughout my career."

He fell three runs short of his highest Test score of 174 scored against New Zealand in Brisbane in 2015.

Debutant Mason Crane ended Khawaja's epic innings to capture his first Test wicket when he had him stumped by Jonny Bairstow with a sharp turner that left the Australian No.3 stranded out of his ground.

It was due reward for the Hampshire leg spinner, who endured the heartbreak of having a leg before wicket review rubbed out for a borderline no-ball when Khawaja was on 132 earlier in the day.

Crane, who at 20 is the youngest specialist spinner to play for England in 90 years, showed plenty of heart to keep plugging away without much luck until dismissing Khawaja.

Crane finished a challenging day with one wicket for 135 off 39 overs.

"It was a pretty tough day," Bairstow said. "We're 150 overs into the innings so there's going to be a few tired bodies out there.

"I thought the way the guys toiled out there and really worked hard was impressive and that's really good to see for us as a side going forward."

Shaun Marsh reached his fourth half-century of the series and survived a review on 22 for a catch behind off Joe Root after the "Snicko" and "Hot Spot" technology could not find supporting evidence.

England earlier claimed Smith's prized wicket before lunch when Ali caught and bowled the Australian skipper when he seemed set to make his fourth century of the series.

Smith, who looked untroubled batting patiently through the morning session, left the field shaking his head after batting for 253 minutes and facing 158 balls.


Smith and Khawaja seized the momentum for Australia with a 188-run stand as England chase a face-saving win after surrendering the Ashes after just three matches.

The skipper has been one of the key differences between the two sides in the series, amassing 687 runs at an average of 137.40 with a top score of 239, his Test best.

Source: News Agencies

Top sumo referee apologises for sexual harassment

Tokyo: Sumo's top-ranked referee sexually harassed a teenage referee last month, Japanese media reported today, in a fresh blow to the ancient sport after a former champion was charged over a brutal assault on a rival.

While drunk on the night of December 16, Shikimori Inosuke, 58, molested his male junior by kissing him and touching his chest at a hotel in Okinawa, where sumo wrestlers were making a winter tour, public broadcaster NHK and Kyodo News said.

The top referee, whose real name is Itsuo Nouchi, apologised to his junior for the harassment, NHK and Kyodo said, quoting Japan Sumo Association officials.

"I don't remember anything as I was heavily drunk," Shikimori said, according to Jiji Press. "I don't know why I did such an act." 

The junior referee has no plans to file a police report, but the association is expected to take disciplinary action, local media said.

"It's embarrassing as he is in a position to supervise others as the top referee," association chairman Hakkaku said, according to NHK.

Confirmation of the news reports was not immediately available.

NHK said the harassment dealt a heavy blow to the association, which has vowed to take preventive measures against scandals as former sumo grand champion Harumafuji was charged late last month over a brutal assault on a rival wrestler while out drinking.

The Mongolian former "yokozuna", sumo's highest rank, faced a summary indictment meaning he was fined 500,000 yen (USD 4,420) but exempted from standing trial.

The indictment came nearly a month after he stepped down, apologising for the embarrassment caused by a violent outburst in October that left countryman Takanoiwa with a fractured skull.

Yokozuna are expected to be beyond moral reproach but the writing was on the wall for Harumafuji after he confessed to hitting Takanoiwa for texting his girlfriend while he was scolding him over his poor attitude.


Source: News Agencies

I-League: Gokulam Kerala FC to take on Minerva Punjab FC

Kozhikode: Debutants Gokulam Kerala FC will be aiming for an upset when they take on the in-form Minerva Punjab FC at the EMS Corporation Stadium on Saturday.

Gokulam Kerala FC's were beaten by reigning champions Aizawl FC, thanks to double strikes by Daniel Addo and Andrei Ionescu, in their last home outing.

Coach Bino George, during the pre-match press conference, explained that the cold plunge in foreigners' form and injury was to be blamed for the loss.

"Ours is a new team. It will take time for us to settle down as a unit. The same applies to players as well.

Foreigners are scoring goals for the other teams. We are not getting the same sort of services from ours. That is our problem," he said.

Meanwhile, he informed that the seasoned prolific striker Odafa Okolie is likely to debut tomorrow for the yellow outfit provided that the formalities are completed before that.

"Odafa Okolie knows what the team seeks from him. He scored nine goals in the second division last season and we had every reason to go after him.

"Odafa's paperwork is pending. If it is done, he will play tomorrow. Hopefully, we will get it done by today evening", George said.

Meanwhile, he added that an ex-Salgaocar FC defender Balwinder has also been added to the Gokulam Kerala FC roster recently.

He further said that his team is drawing motivation from Arrow's miraculous performance against Mohun Bagan where the young guns held the Kolkata giants to a gutsy 1-1 draw.

Indian Arrows held Mohun Bagan and this is football. So we will try hard to get a result." 

On the other hand, Minerva Punjab FC who had a fairytale-like start to the season had to leave the ground empty-handed against Aizawl FC in their last match.

They'll surely look to churn a positive result tomorrow against the debutants and Coach Khogen Singh rightly pointed it out.

"It is an away game and the experience of an away game is different. We don't want to lose games because right now we are second in the game," Singh said.

Meanwhile, Chencho, the Bhutanese playmaker is continuing to mesmerise the crowd and has been the vital cog for the Blue outfit so far. Although Khogen Singh didn't mince his words to praise him, he praised the teamwork which is actually earning them the results.

Tags: I-League, Gokulam Kerala FC, Minerva Punjab FC, EMS Corporation Stadium , Aizawl FC,  Daniel Addo , Andrei Ionescu


Source: News Agencies

Hockey India names 33 players for junior men's national camp

New Delhi: Hockey India today named a 33- member core probables for a junior men's national camp, to be held in Bengaluru from January 7 to March 15. The players will train under coach Jude Felix.

The camp includes Mandeep Mor, Pratap Lakra, Pankaj Rajak, Harmanjit Singh, Vishal Singh, Raushan Kumar, Dilpreet Singh, Maninder Singh, Sanjay, Senthamizh Shankar, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Rabichandra Moirangthem and Shilanand Lakra who were part of the 18-member Indian junior men's team that won the bronze medal at the recently-held Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia.

The group will be looking at the overall development during the camp and will also get an opportunity to closely watch their senior compatriots go about their preparations for an all-important year that features the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and men's World Cup in Bhubaneswar.

"It is a long camp and we will be looking at different ways to bring in overall development. While our primary focus will be to improve our skills, fitness, speed, mental conditioning and other aspects of the game, this camp also gives us the time to engage in team building activities," Felix said.

"I am also looking at having classes to improve the athletes communication skills and general knowledge. They are a very hardworking group and have the commitment to give what it takes to graduate to the next lvel. It is also great that they get to watch the senior team so closely as we are in the same campus: 

Probables: 

Goalkeepers: 

Pankaj Kumar Rajak - Steel Plant Sports Board 

Tanuj Gulia - Hockey Haryana 

Prashant Kumar Chauhan - Uttar Pradesh Hockey 

AS Sentamizh Arasu - SSCB 

Defenders 

Suman Beck - Hockey Odisha 

Harmanjit Singh - Hockey Punjab 

Mandeep Mor - Hockey Haryana 

Mohd Faraz - Uttar Pradesh Hockey 

Prin - Punjab & Sind Bank 

Pratap Lakra - Hockey Gangpur Odisha 

Midfielders 

Varinder Singh - Hockey Punjab 

Sunny Malik - Hockey Haryana 

Vishal Antil - Hockey Haryana 

Yashdeep Siwach - Hockey Haryana 

Vishal Singh - Uttar Pradesh Hockey 

Vivek Sagar Prasad - M.P. Hockey Academy 

Akshay Avasthi - M.P. Hockey Academy 

Sukhjeet Singh - Hockey Chandigarh 

Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem - Manipur Hockey 

Dinachandra Singh Moirangthem - MP Hockey Academy 

Forwards 

Shilanand Lakra - Steel Plant Sports Board 

Jai Prakash Patel - Steel Plant Sports Board 

Dilpreet Singh - Hockey Punjab 

Mohd. Saif Khan - Sports Authority of India 

Raushan Kumar - Sports Authority of India 

Abhishek - Hockey Haryana 

Shivam Anand - Uttar Pradesh Hockey 

Rahul Kumar Rajbhar - Uttar Pradesh Hockey 

Mohd. Alishan - M.P Hockey Academy 

Sanjay - Hockey Chandigarh 

Maninder Singh - Hockey Chandigarh 

Rahul - SSCB 

Anand Kumar Bara - Hockey Bihar.


Source: News Agencies

Vitorino Fernandes to captain Goa in Santosh Trophy

Panaji: A 20-member Goa squad led by Sporting Clube de Goa striker Vitorino Fernandes today left for Ahmedabad to participate in the West Zone qualifying round of the Santosh Trophy 2017-18. 

Goa, who are placed along with Rajasthan and Gujarat, will play their first match against Rajasthan on January 10.

They will lock horns with Gujarat on January 12. Goa Football Association president Elvis Gomes said the team to be captained by Vitorino Fernandes was announced.

"This is one of the most formidable squads in recent times. We have also appointed Armando Coalco as the coach and Mateus Costa as the assistant coach," Gomes said.

The other members of the squad are Mathew Gonsalves, Ozen Silva, Melroy Fernandes, Agnelo Gomes, Nickson Catanha, Shallum Pires, Peter Carvalho, Jessel Carneiro, Mackroy Peixoto, Kingslee Fernandes, Nestor Dias, Kapil Hoble, Beevan D'Mello, Velito D'Cruz, Joaquim Carvalho, Clinton Niasso, Marcus Mascarrenhas, Clive Miranda and Joaquim Abranches.



Source: News Agencies

Mourinho hits back at Conte, raises match-fixing

Jose Mourinho

MANCHESTER: Jose Mourinho intensified his war of words with Chelsea manager Antonio Conte in bizarre fashion after his team's FA Cup victory over Derby on Friday, apparently referencing a match-fixing scandal in Italy.

The Manchester United manager was responding to comments made by Conte earlier in the day in which he appeared to make disparaging statements about Mourinho.

The Italian was even interpreted as suggesting that the United manager may be suffering from "dementia" after Mourinho had made a reference, 24 hours earlier, to his own behaviour and the fact that he no longer acts "like a clown".

Initially, Mourinho appeared to be backing Conte following the furore caused by his words on Thursday -- only then to make the reference to match-fixing.

"I was asked about my passion and, you know, I was speaking about myself and then the question to the Chelsea manager was that I said he behaved like a clown," said Mourinho.

"Probably the journalist wanted to say that but didn't have the courage so he said 'Mourinho said you behaved like a clown'.

"I don't blame the Chelsea manager at all and I understand his reaction. I was speaking about myself, saying I don't need to behave like a clown to show passion."

Mourinho referred to his managerial antics earlier in his career and said he had not lost his passion.

"I celebrated goals running 50 metres, I celebrated goals sliding on my knees, celebrations jumping in the crowd. I'm not free of that, especially if we score a winning goal in a specific moment I am not free to have an out-of-control reaction.

"What I was trying to say that I behave bad a few times and this moment I control myself better. It doesn't mean my passion is not the same. So wrong question and obviously a strong answer and I don't blame."

The United boss -- no stranger to controversy -- then changed tack and referenced match-fixing.

"What has never happened to me and will never happen is to be suspended for match-fixing. That never happened to me and it will never happen."

The surprising reference to "match-fixing" drew a follow-up question as to whether it was directly aimed at Conte.

The Chelsea boss was acquitted of sporting fraud charges in 2016. Prosecutors had requested a six-month suspended sentence following accusations he failed to report episodes of match-fixing while in charge at Serie B side Siena in 2011.

The former Italy manager -- who has always denied any wrongdoing -- served a four-month ban in relation to the affair in 2012.

But when mention was made of the accusations against Conte, Mourinho said: "Did he? Not me."

Mourinho's reference to that controversy was just the latest twist in a verbal spat between the managers that seemed to have reached a climax earlier in the day when Conte was quizzed by reporters.

The most contentious of Conte's comments came when he used an Italian expression, "demenza senile" -- senile dementia.

"I think he (Mourinho) has to see himself in the past, maybe he was speaking about himself in the past, yeah?" said Conte.

"Maybe sometimes, someone forgets what they said or his behaviour and sometimes I think there is, I don't know the name, 'demenza senile', when you are a bit..."

Conte tapped his temple as he spoke, and was asked to clarify his comment. "It is like amnesia, when you can't remember things," he said.

Chelsea later tried to distance Conte from claims he had suggested his rival has dementia, saying he simply meant amnesia.

Source: News Agencies

New Zealand beat Pakistan by 61 runs (D/L)

Kane Williamson

WELLINGTON: New Zealand ended Pakistan's run of nine consecutive wins in one-day internationals when they beat the Champions Trophy holders by 61 runs under the Duckworth-Lewis system on Saturday to open the five-match series.

Captain Kane Williamson made 115 to lead New Zealand to 315-7 as they batted first after losing the toss. Pakistan were 166/6 after 30.1 overs when rain brought the match to an early end.

Opener Fakhar Zaman was 82 not out and Faheem Ashraf 17 was not out but Pakistan were well short of the 227 runs they needed to win the match under the Duckworth-Lewis system when rain finally set in.

New Zealand swing bowler Tim Southee captured two wickets in the first over of the Pakistan innings to place the tourists under immediate pressure in reply.

Southee trapped both Azhar Ali (6) and Babar Azam (0) lbw within his opening over, then took a catch from Trent Boult's bowling to dismiss Mohammad Hafeez (1) to leave Pakistan's innings in disarray at 13-3.

Fakhar batted superbly to recover the innings, reaching his half century from 63 balls and putting on 78 for the sixth wicket with Shadab Khan. But Pakistan never approached the run-rate they needed to win the match whether or not rain intervened.

New Zealand were on top from the start as Williamson, currently the No. 4-ranked batsman in ODI cricket, reached his 10th ODI century from 106 balls to lead his team to a record total at the Basin Reserve.

Opener Colin Munro also enhanced his reputation as one of the world's leading ODI batsmen, giving the New Zealand innings a sound foundation with is fifth ODI half century.

Munro, the top-ranked batsmen in Twenty20 internationals, hit 58 from 35 balls to give the hosts a rapid beginning in conditions in which scoring generally required careful application.

"Obviously, we've been playing a lot of cricket recently against the West Indies and it was a different competition against Pakistan," Williamson said.

"The way we batted with Colin and Martin (Guptill) at the top of the order set the tone coming into a new series and getting past the 300 mark on that surface was an above-par effort."

Despite being covered during two days of rain -- the reason Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed chose to bowl on winning the toss -- the pitch at the Basin Reserve was hard and provided good pace and carry, even a little seam movement.

Undeterred by those conditions, Munro reached his 50 off just 33 balls with five fours and two sixes.

He went to his half century with a six from the bowling of Hasan Ali and added one more boundary before he was out to end an 83-run opening partnership with Martin Guptill (48).

Williamson then added 73 with Guptill for the second wicket and 90 with Henry Nicholls for the fifth before finally falling in the 48th over. Nicholls again played a strong hand near the end, hitting 50 from 53 balls.

The Pakistan seamers, who found a little assistance from the pitch, used shorter balls and slower deliveries to try and limit the scoring options of the New Zealand batsmen.

Munro was the only batsman who was able to launch an all-out attack on the bowlers and Williamson notably achieved his century by quiet accumulation. His innings contained only eight fours and one six and, in total, New Zealand hit only 25 fours and five sixes.


Hasan Ali, ranked the best bowler in the world in ODIs, was again Pakistan's best on Saturday, taking 3-61.


Source: News Agencies

Van Dijk scores winner on Liverpool debut

LIVERPOOL: Virgil van Dijk scored a dramatic late winner on his debut as Liverpool clinched a 2-1 victory over Everton in a heated Merseyside derby FA Cup tie at Anfield.

Liverpool had led 1-0 at the break after James Milner converted from the penalty spot but Everton looked to have secured a replay when Gylfi Sigurdsson equalised midway through the second half.

But Van Dijk, who became the world's most expensive defender when he joined the Reds from Southampton, headed home six minutes from time in the 230th meeting between the sides.

"What a night," said the Dutch defender. "It was thoroughly deserved, it felt amazing to be out there, the goal is very special for me and my family.

"Playing at Anfield for Liverpool is a dream for every player. To score a goal is even more special."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp handed a debut to record £75 million ($102 million, 85 million euros) signing Van Dijk as he selected arguably his strongest available starting line-up, in contrast to the 1-1 draw in the Premier League played out by the sides in December.

Brazil playmaker Philippe Coutinho was again ruled out with a thigh injury as speculation continues to mount over his future amid interest from Barcelona, while top-scorer Mohamed Salah was missing with a groin problem.

Everton, who confirmed the sale of midfielder Ross Barkley to Chelsea in the hours leading up to the match, were also at full strength.

The atmosphere in the stands crackled and on the pitch it was equally feisty. Wayne Rooney scythed down Joe Gomez early on and was shown a yellow card.

Chances, though, were at premium in the first half as Liverpool dominated possession.

The breakthrough came five minutes after the half-hour mark when Liverpool were awarded a penalty by referee Bobby Madley.

Everton defender Mason Holgate used his arms on Adam Lallana, who had his back to goal inside the area, and the Liverpool midfielder went to ground.

Milner made no mistake with the spot-kick as he dispatched the ball past Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford with confidence.

Klopp felt it was not a spot-kick.

"It was a similar situation (to the penalty against Liverpool for Everton last month), the first one was no penalty in my opinion and this one wasn't also," he said. "It's the same. There is contact and the referee used his whistle. Exactly the same situation."

Tempers flared when Roberto Firmino was pushed into the advertising hoardings by Holgate before referee Madley stepped in to prevent the incident escalating further following an angry exchange of words.

Everton manager Sam Allardyce was more positive with his approach than the fixture last month, although the visitors found Liverpool's defence, marshalled by Van Dijk, resilient and were unable to register a shot on target in the first half.

Rooney wrestled with Emre Can shortly after the break and perhaps fearing a red card was in the offing, Allardyce withdrew the experienced forward.

Liverpool continued to carve out chances but were unable to provide the decisive touch and Everton hit them with an equaliser on the counter attack.

Yannick Bolasie won possession and found Rooney's replacement Ademola Lookman, who showed superb awareness to break forward before he found Phil Jagielka on the edge of the box.


Rather than shoot himself the defender laid the ball off for Sigurdsson, who calmly stroked the ball into the bottom corner of the net past the flat-footed Loris Karius.

However, Liverpool sealed passage to the fourth round -- and their first win in five attempts on home turf against the Toffees in the competition -- with a dramatic goal in the dying minutes.


Source: News Agencies

Lingard stunner propels Manchester United to FA Cup win

MANCHESTER: Jesse Lingard's latest wonder strike and substitute Romelu Lukaku's late effort secured Manchester United a 2-0 victory over Derby in the third round of the FA Cup.

Both attempts, which came in the final six minutes, were worthy of a highlights package in the first FA Cup tie involving United in 13 years not to be televised live.

United had lost just one of their previous 35 FA Cup games against lower-league sides but were heading for a replay until one-time Rams loanee Lingard, with his eighth goal in 10 games, smashed home a swerving volley, with Lukaku then adding a second having broken from the halfway line.

Last month's League Cup exit and a 15-point deficit to Manchester City in the Premier League had placed extra importance on this competition, and that was evident with the strong line-up Jose Mourinho deployed.

Lingard, Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford could all have scored inside an entertaining 19 minutes that suggested the television executives might have been wrong to snub the match.

Derby were encouraged by a couple of runs from former United youngster Tom Lawrence, while Marcus Olsson forced Sergio Romero to tip his header over the crossbar, with Alex Pearce heading the resulting corner into the Stretford End.

That was a good opening but nothing like the one Rashford spurned 10 minutes before the break.

For once Henrikh Mkhitaryan's delivery was perfect and an unmarked Rashford glanced a header onto a post from six yards out.

It was the type of miss that epitomised why Mourinho is reluctant to consider him as a central-striking alternative to Lukaku, whose arrival for the disappointing Mkhitaryan would soon come.

Before the interval there was still time for Rams stopper Scott Carson to make two saves, one a routine stop from another Rashford header and the other a palm over the top from a Pogba free-kick destined for the top corner.

Half-time substitute Lukaku's first significant act was to close down Tom Huddlestone as the midfielder struck an effort that flew wide via an unsuspecting Luke Shaw.

Rashford's confidence, like Mkhitaryan's, looked shot and a free-kick that failed to get beyond a one-man wall was proof of that.

Pogba and Lawrence traded shots from distance that Carson and Romero pushed out before Mourinho sent for Anthony Martial.

After Pogba had placed an attempt just wide, Rashford was once again denied by the woodwork.

Martial's introduction had seen Rashford shift to the right and the England international collected a pass from Lingard and unleashed a well-struck attempt that beat Carson but came back off the base of a post.

There was a growing sense it was not going to be United's night. A Lukaku header came back of the other post, albeit after the offside flag had been raised, and Pogba scuffed a rebound wide after Carson repelled Lingard's attempt.


Yet Lingard would finally break the visitors' resistance, collecting a lay-off from Lukaku, teeing himself up and dispatching a swerving attempt into the corner of the net.

His 11th of the season was every bit as special as the efforts against Watford, Burnley and Everton.


Lukaku got in the act in the 90th minute, controlling Pogba's long clearance on his chest in midfield before playing a one-two with Martial and beating Carson with a powerful strike to wrap it up.


Source: News Agencies

Thiago rescues Mumbai City; JFC remain winless at home

Jamshedpur: Thiago Santos rescued a point for Mumbai City FC with a 71st minute strike against hosts Jamshedpur FC as the two teams settled for an entertaining 2-2 draw in the Hero Indian Super League at JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on Friday. 

Thiago put the visitors ahead in the 20th minute while Nigerian striker Izu Azuka scored two late goals in the first-half to give the hosts a 2-1 lead going into the break. It was Thiago again, who struck midway in the second half and helped them leave the Steel city with a point but there was no denying the class of his first goal. 

Thiago scored what can be best described as a stunning goal for Mumbai City FC in the 24th minute. After a throw in, Balwant Singh found Everton Santos who simply rolled the ball into the path of Thiago. The Brazilian was surrounded by Jamshedpur players all around, but he was still determined to push his way through. He cut past one player, then second, and another one. To top it all, he finished the move with a sensational flick that found the top corner of the net. 

It was a stunning effort from Thiago and the hosts were momentarily stunned. Their famous defence had crumbled, thanks to a moment of brilliance, but they fought back in style with two quick goals in the 43rd and 45th minute to take a 2-1 lead at the breather. 

Jamshedpur had not scored from open play this season and they finally got that goal in the 43rd minute. Jerry Mawhmingthanga found himself some space near the rival danger zone and drilled in a low cross in the path of Kervens Belfort. His attempt was blocked by a Mumbai defender but the rebound fell nicely for Izu Azuka who didn’t miss from such close range. 

Two minutes later, Jamshedpur struck again. It was Azuka, this time though with a much difficult goal. It was Jerry who moved dangerously on the right and essayed a cross inside the box where the Nigerian finished with a classy effort.

In the second half, Jamshedpur were comfortable even though Mumbai City were asking questions but the hosts couldn’t hold on to their lead. Their citadel crumbled for the second time as Thiago was on target in the 71st minute, thanks to an inch-perfect pass from Everton.

The draw took Mumbai City to the top four with 14 points from nine matches while Jamshedpur FC are placed sixth on the table with 10 points from eight matches.

NorthEast believe Grant can spark a turnaround

Guwahati: The arrival of former Chelsea FC manager Avram Grant as technical advisor has reignited hopes that NorthEast United FC can still salvage their chances despite a poor start in the fourth edition of Hero Indian Super League. 

The man who took English Premier League giants Chelsea to the final of the UEFA Champions League in 2008 has already joined the club and there is genuine belief that a turnaround is possible, starting with their home tie against FC Goa at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Guwahati, on Saturday. 

NorthEast United are ninth on the table with four points from seven matches. Only Delhi Dynamos have fared worse in the league. 

“The mood has changed (in the dressing room) with arrival of the new (technical) advisor. The boys are geared up and ready for tomorrow’s match,” goalkeeping coach Joseph Siddy said during the pre-match media interaction. 

With three home matches in a row against FC Goa (January 6), ATK (January 12) and Chennaiyin FC (January 19), the conditions are ideal for the former Ghana national team coach to turn things around.

“It will help the team with the new advisor. His experience and coaching style will motivate us and will give us the confidence to do well in future matches,” said Siddy.

It may not be all that easy with FC Goa as their opposition on Saturday. The Goans showed remarkable spirit to snatch a point against ATK in their previous game and are now targeting the top spot.

FC Goa are placed fourth with 13 points from seven matches and will return to the top of the table should they score a comfortable victory. 

“All the teams are well balanced. They are equal and it’s the small details which make the difference in each game,” said FC Goa chief coach Sergio Lobera, unwilling to take their poorly-performing rivals lightly. 

Much of FC Goa’s chances will depend on the form of Spanish striker Ferran Corominas, who is now the leading goalscorer with nine goals. Coach Lobera admitted that Corominas is a special player but continued to stress on the collective strength of his side. 

“Coro is a very good player. He has great experience. I am very happy with him and he is one of the best player I have trained, not just on the field but off the field as well. He keeps the group united. But it’s not about individual; it’s about the team,” said Lobera.

Gaurs to take on wounded Highlanders in Guwahati

Panjim: A beleaguered FC Goa side showed great grit and commitment to pick up a point from a tough fixture against ATK at the Salt Lake Stadium, officially known as Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata in their previous outing. With the Gaurs reaching the stadium only an hour prior to kick off and then conceding the opener in only the 4th minute, things looked ominous. 

However, Sergio Lobera’s men turned on the style thereafter to dominate the hosts with Coro netting his 9th goal of the season. The Gaurs could have walked away with the three points but a late miss let ATK off the hook as FC Goa took away an important point. The Gaurs next face off against the struggling Highlanders at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati who have only one win in seven matches this season.

The young Spanish coach once again fielded the same team in Kolkata as in previous matches with skipper Laxmikant Kattimani starting in goal. The Goan keeper has put in some good performances after a shaky start to the campaign. He will start in goal in Guwahati. Goan defender Ali Mohamed has come into his own and has forged a partnership with Bruno Pinheiro in the heart of the Goan defence. 

The duo is likely to start together once more although Sergio may be tempted to rotate his squad due to the packed fixture schedule. Sergio Juste and Chinglensana Singh are ideal replacements for both central defenders. Seriton Ferandes and Narayan Das will continue either side of the defence while Amey Ranawade and Mandar Rao Dessai can be used as replacements.

Edu Bedia was the star man for the Gaurs against ATK, putting in a stunning performance from the centre of the park. He will most likely be given another game alongside Moroccan midfielder Ahmed Jahouh. Pronay Halder and Pratesh Shirodkar are options from the bench. Brandon Fernandes played a vital role in helping the side pick up a vital point in Kolkata and he will look to continue on the wing in partnership with Mandar Rao Dessai. 

Manuel Lanzarote wasn’t at his scintillating best against ATK but still managed to pick up another assist for his side, thus highlighting his importance to this team. He will start in the attacking midfield position behind Golden boot holder Ferran ‘Coro’ Corominas who has been sensational so far. Manuel Arana and Liston Colaco could also be given a look in.

The Gaurs will want to get back to winning ways and propel themselves to the top of the ISL standings while the Highlanders will also be looking to win in a bid to make a playoff spot. 

David James keeps the faith in Kerala’s title-winning ability

Kochi: Kerala Blasters FC’s newly-appointed coach David James believes he can replicate his first season’s performance with the team and guide them to the final of the Hero Indian Super League. 

The former England goalkeeper spent a year at Kerala Blasters as marquee player-manager during the inaugural edition in 2014 and took the team to the final where they were unfortunate to lose at the death against Atletico de Kolkata, now ATK. 

He has now returned to the club for a second stint following the departure of Rene Meulensteen and, despite having just eight points after eight matches, James still believes this team can go far in the ISL. 

“I might be a fan of Kerala Blasters, but I am not stupid. If I didn’t think the squad was capable, I wouldn’t have come,” James said after his side managed a 1-1 draw against FC Pune City in his first game in-charge. 

“I joined the club on the basis that we have a good squad capable of winning ISL,” the former England goalkeeper told reporters during the post-match media interaction. 

The former Blasters’ marquee player-cum-manager feels the club has the best fans he has witnessed and is happy to be back in the league which is growing rapidly. 

“The league is gaining popularity every passing season, and I am happy to be back at my former club having the best fans. 

“It’s been a turbulent 48 hours for the club and myself. I just got here. We didn’t have much of training, instead we spoke to each other and put the set pieces for the game,” said the former England No1. 

James described his first match opponents as the best in the league and was happy with his side’s second-half comeback. 

“Pune showed their quality. On another day, we would have won the game. We played that well in the second-half against the best team in the league,” he said.

Mourinho preparing to leave at the end of the season

MANCHESTER: Jose Mourinho has laughed off the suggestion that his decision to live in a city centre hotel shows a lack of commitment to his role as manager of Manchester United.

The Portuguese coach was forced to confirm his continued desire to remain in charge at Old Trafford following reports that senior club officials are concerned he may be preparing to leave at the end of the season.

Mourinho's choice to live in an apartment in the city centre Lowry Hotel, rather than buy a permanent residence in the area, is also seen by critics at proof that the former Chelsea manager lacks a long-term wish to stay in the northwest.

But Mourinho told reporters on Thursday: "If the fans want me to be comfortable, that's the way I feel comfortable, I am very lazy. I like to arrive in the hotel and I don't want anyone to worry because I'm not living in a two-square-metres room.

"I'm in an apartment where I have all the comfort and support, like living in a house. If they are worried about me being comfortable and happy and supported, I really am.

"If they want me to be in a house that I don't like, lonely, away from my assistants, then I would be a sad guy -- and sad guys don't work well."

The 54-year-old was clearly offended by reports that his recent apparent unhappiness at his club's lack of financial power, when compared with runaway league leaders Manchester City, proved his lack of enthusiasm for the United job.

And speaking ahead of his side's FA Cup third round tie against Derby on Friday, he stressed that he is as committed to the Premier League giants as he has been to any of his previous posts.

"I was always thinking that my job is the job, so I dedicate myself to every club," said Mourinho, whose club are second in the Premier League but trail City by 15 points.

"I arrive, I wear the shirt and in that moment it becomes my club. I manage to dedicate myself so strongly to every one of my clubs. I become emotionally connected.

"Everyone knows in Italy, I am Inter, Inter, Inter. In Spain, I am Real Madrid, Real Madrid, Real Madrid."

The United boss said England's top division used to have two or three big powers battling for supremacy but now even clubs not fighting for the top four were spending huge sums.

Mourinho had earlier insisted that he expects to remain at United beyond the three-year contract he initially signed when replacing Louis van Gaal in the summer of 2016.

However, despite his repeated claims that he is fully committed to his Old Trafford role, Mourinho did confess that he will always be primarily linked with his first, and only other, English employers, Chelsea.

"The difference now between Chelsea and Man United is that I really belong to Chelsea history," he said.


"I won three Premier Leagues, cups, I won lots of things, their first Premier League in 2004. I have a history there and here my history is (as) someone who works hard every day.

"We (United) won the only competition the club had never won but everyone knows the Europa League is not the El Dorado of football. But I've come here in a moment where it's more difficult to make history."


Tags: Mourinho , Jose Mourinho , Manchester United, FA Cup , Old Trafford , Chelsea

Source: News Agencies

Manchester City players unfazed by fixture pile-up

MANCHESTER: Manchester City's players do not appear to share manager Pep Guardiola's concern about a congested fixture list as they prepare to host Burnley in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday.

Guardiola is worried that City have more matches than they can cope with as they compete for success in four competitions.

His side played nine matches during December and face at least seven during January -- if they reach the finals of the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup, they will have played a minimum of 63 games by the end of the season.

Guardiola said after Tuesday's 3-1 win over Watford, a result that maintained City's 15-point lead at the top of the Premier League, that English football's busy Christmas and New Year schedule was "going to kill the players".

Yet midfielder Fernandinho and goalkeeper Ederson have both said they are happy to be playing so many games, and would gladly face Burnley this weekend, even though their manager is considering changes to keep senior players fresh.

"I spent New Year's Day at home with my child and my wife and I was fresh," said Fernandinho. "We will see what Pep is going to do but, for sure, every player is going to be ready if he needs them to play.

"We are here, we are professional, and I don't like to rest."

Ederson is likely to be replaced by Claudio Bravo, who has featured in all of City's League Cup ties this season, but the Brazil goalkeeper indicated that he is ready to play too.

"All the players like to play games, so it is great we have so many matches," he said. "Also, the team are playing really well.

"We had an amazing month in December. We are playing great football and we are getting good results so we are really happy."

City have not lost a domestic game since they were knocked out of last season's FA Cup by Arsenal at the semi-final stage in April.

They did, though, find it tough against Burnley in the Premier League fixture at the Etihad Stadium in October, needing two quick goals from Nicolas Otamendi and Leroy Sane in the final 20 minutes to ensure a flattering 3-0 victory.

City remain without striker Gabriel Jesus, who will be absent until February with medial knee ligament damage suffered during the 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace on Sunday, while right-back Kyle Walker is a doubt after limping off against Watford with a groin problem.

Midfielder David Silva has missed several recent matches to be with his young son Mateo, who is seriously ill after being born prematurely.

Burnley manager Sean Dyche has indicated that he will rest several players after seeing their form slip over Christmas and New Year.

Leading scorer Chris Wood and left-back Stephen Ward will be assessed to see if they are over the knee injuries that have kept them out of recent fixtures.

Dyche's side are without a win in five Premier League matches, although they remain seventh in the table.

Burnley fell victim to arguably the greatest upset of last season's FA Cup, losing at home to Lincoln City, then a non-league club, in the fifth round in February.

Tags: Manchester City ,  Pep Guardiola,  FA Cup, Champions League, FA Cup , League Cup, Arsenal , Etihad Stadium

Source: News Agencies

Salah goes from Chelsea flop to African king

ACCRA: It took Liverpool and Egypt star Mohamed Salah just three years to transform from a Chelsea reject to being crowned African Player of the Year in Ghana.

Salah failed to blossom after moving from Swiss outfit Basel to Stamford Bridge, leading to him being lent to Serie A sides Fiorentina and AS Roma, then sold to the latter.

At Roma, his career took off as he scored 29 goals in two seasons and created 17 others to draw the attention of several English Premier League suitors.

Liverpool made a successful £34.3 million (about $46.5 million; 38.5 million euros) bid and Salah has not looked back since, scoring 23 goals in 29 matches in all competitions.

He has made a habit of bagging braces with the most recent helping Liverpool come from behind at home to edge Leicester City 2-1 last month.

Seventeen of the goals have come in the Premier League, placing him second in the scorers' charts, only one goal behind Harry Kane of Tottenham Hotspur.

Apart from his Liverpool exploits, Salah last year helped resurgent Egypt finish Africa Cup of Nations runners-up and reach the World Cup for the first time since 1990.

The African Player of the Year title completed an awards hat-trick after he was named BBC African Footballer of the Year in December and Arab Player of the Year earlier this week.

It is a far cry from a few years ago when Salah was doubting whether he could ever become a regular scorer in a major European league.

"Mohamed has been absolutely amazing and gives Liverpool a different dimension because his pace gets him behind defenders," said former Liverpool star Ian Rush.

"Before the arrival of Salah, opponents of Liverpool were happy in the knowledge that no one was going past them."

Another former Liverpool star, Gary McAllister, said the Egyptian combined individual skill with teamwork.

"Mohamed has wonderful flair, but also works effortlessly for the side and is very much a team player.

"He works his socks off for the badge and that is what really impresses me. He is also capable of scoring from all areas of the pitch."

Most Egyptian stars eventually play for one of the Cairo club giants -- Al Ahly or Zamalek -- before considering a move to Europe.


But Salah never lined up for the "Red Devils" of Ahly or the "White Knights" of Zamalek, turning out for less fashionable El Mokawloon instead in the Egyptian capital.

His goals attracted the attention of Basel, who signed him after Egyptian domestic football was suspended in 2012 when a football-related Port Said riot claimed more than 70 lives.


He played for Egypt at under-20 and under-23 levels before making his senior debut and was the leading 2018 World Cup qualifying scorer in Africa with five goals.

Tags: Liverpool , Egypt , Mohamed Salah, Chelsea , African Player of the Year, English Premier League , Africa Cup of Nations


Source: News Agencies