Khalid Jamil attends Mohun Bagan – Mohammedan
Calcutta Premier Division A ‘The spy who came in from East Bengal’: Khalid Jamil watches Mohun Bagan – Mohammedan Goal Last updated 2 years ago 21:44 11/9/2017 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
I-League Calcutta Premier Division A Mohun Bagan Mohammedan The former Mumbai FC coach had sparked controversy last year for sending his assistant to a closed door session. East Bengal coach Khalid Jamil was a surprise visitor at the Kalyani Stadium on Monday afternoon, where arch-rivals Mohun Bagan eked out a narrow 2-1 victory against Mohammedan Sporting in a key Calcutta Football League (CFL) clash.The Red and Golds are still in pole position in the competition, having won all their games so far, but will have to face Mohammedan before they play the Green and Maroons in a potential title-decider scheduled to be played at Siliguri on 24th October.Attending the matches of opponent teams is not common in Kolkata, even though the teams play within 500 meters in most cases. Karim Bencherifa, the former coach of the Mariners’ was the last professional, who was a regular visitor in the press-box during East Bengal’s matches. Article continues below Editors’ Picks ‘I’m getting better’ – Can Man Utd flop Fred save his Old Trafford career? Why Barcelona god Messi will never be worshipped in the same way in Argentina Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Khalid had courted controversy last season, when his assistant was spotted in a closed door practice session of East Bengal, but all that looks a thing of the past now, with the Jamil juggernaut getting off to a good start.While the I-League winning coach stuck to his usually cliches when questioned by the media for his reactions on the match, Mohun Bagan’s Shankarlal Chakraborty opined that it’s unlikely that Jamil got to know anything new about his team.”The league has already crossed the half-way mark. We have not signed any news players either. I am not sure whether there is anything fresh that could be noted down from today’s tie,” he told the reporters.Khalid’s team, who are on their way to win the title for the eighth consecutive time, has been boosted by the arrivals of players like Willis Plaza, Carlyle Mitchell, Nikhil Poojary, Arnab Mondal et al, who were away due to national duty, but the nagging injury of VP Suhair has become a point of concern for the management.
United States 4 Panama 0: Pulisic stars as Americans boost World Cup hopes Sacha Pisani 09:25 10/7/17 
Getty Images The United States leapfrogged Panama into the final automatic qualifying spot after a resounding 4-0 victory. Teenage sensation Christian Pulisic scored a goal and set up another as the United States moved a step closer to automatic qualification for the 2018 World Cup thanks to a crushing 4-0 win over Panama.Pressure was on USA to claim all three points in Friday’s crucial qualifier, with the Americans occupying fourth position before kick-off – only enough for an inter-confederation play-off berth.But Pulisic and his team-mates delivered in Orlando, scoring three first-half goals, to lift the CONCACAF Gold Cup champions above Panama and into third position heading into the final matchday of ‘Hexagonal’ qualifying. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Why Barcelona god Messi will never be worshipped in the same way in Argentina Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. Borussia Dortmund starlet Pulisic opened the scoring in the eighth minute with a stunning finish from a tight angle before the 19-year-old provided the assist for Jozy Altidore 11 minutes later.Just a kid from Hershey.@cpulisic_10 delivers yet again for the #USMNT! pic.twitter.com/j5KzsKvvJ9— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) October 7, 2017Altidore’s Panenka penalty in the 43rd minute ended the match as a contest after Bobby Wood was fouled inside the area before the latter completed the scoring past the hour-mark.USA are third in the standings with 12 points after nine matches, two clear of Panama ahead of next week’s trip to Trinidad and Tobago.Bruce Arena made a host of changes following USA’s 1-1 draw in Honduras last time out, six in total as Altidore, Tim Howard, Wood, Paul Arriola, DeAndre Yedlin and Jorge Villafana returned to the line-up at the expense of Clint Dempsey, Brad Guzan, Jordan Morris, Kellyn Acosta, Graham Zusi and DaMarcus Beasley.Panama, who eased past Trinidad and Tobago 3-0 last month, replaced Jose Calderon and Fidel Escobar with Jaime Penedo and Felipe Baloy.The past four meetings between the two nations ended 1-1 following matchups in qualifying and the CONCACAF Gold Cup but USA were in complete control from the outset as Panama were camped in their own half early in Orlando.There was one early warning sign from Panama via Gabriel Torres but the Americans were in control and eventually broke the deadlock with less than 10 minutes played.Pulisic – deployed in a more central role – cut through Panama’s defence and rounded Penedo before coolly finishing from an acute angle – his eighth international goal in 19 matches.Pick your poison .Goal : @JozyAltidore @cpulisic_10Goal : @cpulisic_10 @JozyAltidore pic.twitter.com/eNabKWPKNK— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) October 7, 2017The golden boy of American football was in the thick of the action again, this time teeing up Toronto FC star Altidore for USA’s second in the 19th minute.Pulisic broke free out wide and rolled an inch-perfect delivery across the six-yard box and straight to Altidore at the back post for a simple side-footed finish.That threatened to open the floodgates as Wood found himself in a one-v-one situation three minutes later but he fired his shot straight at Penedo.Such was USA’s dominance, Panama made a substitution in the 26th minute. Coach Hernan Gomez seeing enough as he withdrew Edgar Barcenas for Armando Cooper.Panama enjoyed some more time on the ball but it left them exposed at the back as the Americans were presented with plenty of space, and Altidore wasted the chance to net his second after shooting straight at Penedo.Got ’em .@JozyAltidore bags his brace in style. pic.twitter.com/62oWorgUwv— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) October 7, 2017It mattered little though as Wood earned a penalty moments later and Altidore stepped up to convert two minutes before half-time, taking his tally to 41 USA goals – third behind Dempsey and Landon Donovan.Leading by three goals, the second half did not have the same intensity but the Americans managed to add a fourth goal in the 63rd minute.Having sprayed a shot wide earlier, Hamburg forward Wood received the ball close to goal before turning and shooting past Penedo. read more
Premiership Aberdeen vs Celtic: TV channel, stream, kick-off time, odds & match preview Robin Bairner Last updated 2 years ago 16:32 10/25/17 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
Getty Images Premiership Aberdeen v Celtic Celtic Aberdeen It’s a top-of-the-table clash at Pittodrie, with the defending champions not getting things so easy in the Scottish Premiership this season With a quarter of the Premiership season gone, Celtic have not had things their own way and find themselves locked at the summit of the table with Aberdeen.The pair are six points clear of third-placed Rangers and Wednesday’s match promises to be a watershed affair. Celtic 4/7 to win at Aberdeen Article continues below Editors’ Picks Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. A Liverpool legend in the making: Behind Virgil van Dijk’s remarkable rise to world’s best player Win and Brendan Rodgers’ side will feel that they will be in control of the title race but if they were to be upset by the Dons, suddenly there would be a real prospect of a challenge. Game Aberdeen vs Celtic Date Wednesday, October 25 Time 19:45 BST TV CHANNEL & LIVE STREAM 
In the UK, the game will be available to watch live on television on BT Sport 1, as well as being available to stream live on the BT Sport app. UK TV channel Online stream BT Sport 1 BT Sport app SQUADS & TEAM NEWS Position Aberdeen players Goalkeepers Lewis, Rogers Defenders Reynolds, Arnason, O’Connor, Ball, McKenna, Shinnie, Considine, Logan Midfielders McLean, Tansey, Storie, Christie, Mackay-Steven, Ross Forwards Rooney, May, Maynard, Wright Derek McInnes’ side have had 10 days to prepare for this encounter, having been inactive at the weekend. They are also in a relatively healthy position, although they will be without midfielder Craig Storie due to injury. Greg Tansey is fit again.Ryan Christie cannot play against his parent club, while Gary Mackay-Steven will hope to be given the chance to prove a point against the Parkhead side after a difficult time there.Potential Hibs starting XI: Lewis; Logan, O’Connor, Arnason, Considine; Stewart, Shinnie, McLean, Mackay-Steven; May, Rooney Position Celtic players Goalkeepers Gordon, De Vries, Hazard Defenders Simunovic, Gamba, Boyata, Lustig, Sviatchenko, Ajer, Duffy, McCart, McInroy, Ralston, Welsh, Tierney, Bell Midfielders Bitton, Roberts, Brown, Sinclair, Armstrong, Rogic, Ntcham, Benyu, McGregor, Forrest, Henderson, McLaughlin, Hill, Hendry, Eboue Forwards Griffiths, Dembele, Hayes, Edouard, Miller, Watson, Johnston, Aitchison Celtic continue to suffer from ongoing injury problems in their defence, with Jozo Simunovic on the sidelines once again and Erik Sviatchenko not fit to feature yet. Anthony Ralston is also missing for the Hoops, who may choose to field Nir Bitton in the heart of their back four.In attack, Northern Irishman Rodgers has more positive problems as he ponders the possibility of lining up with both Leigh Griffiths and Moussa Dembele after the latter made a decisive contribution from the bench on Saturday in a 3-2 League Cup semi-final win over Hibernian.Potential Celtic starting XI: Gordon; Lustig, Boyata, Bitton, Tierney; Brown, Ntcham; Sinclair, Rogic, Roberts; Dembele.BETTING & MATCH ODDS 
Celtic are strong favourites at 8/15, according to dabblebet, with Aberdeen priced at 5/1 to cause an upset. The draw is priced at 16/5.Click here to get all the latest odds and markets for the Premiership clash between Aberdeen and Celtic. GAME PREVIEW 
This is a busy period of important games for Celtic. It started with victory in the Old Firm derby against Rangers before continuing with a disappointing defeat against Bayern Munich a week ago.The Parkhead side got back on track at the weekend by defeating Hibs 3-2 in the League Cup semi-final but were made to work harder than they may have wished in an encounter that preceded this top-of-the-table clash. Aberdeen, meanwhile, have only played three times in the last calendar month, winning all of these games without conceding a single goal.Their record against Celtic has been woeful in recent seasons, however, as they have suffered defeat in each of their last nine matches against the Bhoys, including a heart-breaking last-gasp loss in the Scottish Cup final last season.”Celtic’s 60-match unbeaten domestic run is a record that deserves huge credit,” Dons manager McInnes said. “It’s not an easy thing to do. Of course, they’ve got the best squad but keeping that squad motivated and focused for each and every game isn’t always an easy thing to do.”But, you’re not trying to tell me we can’t win a game against them.”If there is a side in Scotland capable of pushing Rodgers’ men, it is Aberdeen, and with circumstances favourable towards them ahead of Wednesday’s clash, they will feel confident they can cause an upset.
European Tour Augusta National to host women’s amateur tournament from 2019 Share on Pinterest Masters 2018 Share on Messenger Share on LinkedIn Topics Share via Email In respect of the fervour attached to the 82nd Masters even before Austin Cook has cracked the first competitive drive, it is hilarious to recall the Tiger-proofing of Augusta National. This weekend, those presiding over a major championship that has triggered such excitement owing to the very same individual may wish they could prevent the other 86 members of the field from holing putts via remote control. Tiger-proofing? Now is the time of Tiger-mania.This is not Tiger Woods’s greatest test but the donning of a Green Jacket for the fifth time would without question register as his greatest victory. We have, of course, only Woods’s own stark depictions as evidence but progression from the point where sitting down at dinner triggered agony and retirement was a live option to securing a 15th major title – and all in a matter of months – would rank among sport’s greatest renaissances. Support The Guardian Read more features The Masters
PGA Tour Since you’re here… Rory McIlroy Share on Facebook Reuse this content Woods’s lowest ebb, after an arrest last May for driving under the influence, has kickstarted his life and turned public sentiment back in his favour. In a non‑tribal sport, the public clearly wants the 42-year-old to prevail here. So, too, and privately will Masters officials.It is that, the “can he do it?” narrative, which has afforded the Masters an eagerness level not seen since Woods was in his dominating pomp. The early part of tournament week has witnessed some staggering scenes, all only possible via word of mouth; mobile phones are prohibited on the premises. Galleries have deepened with every buildup move, with Woods cheered on like a returning hero. Yet, never mind the fact Woods has not won here since 2005 – eight years have passed since he recorded a Masters round better than 68.The irony is, a venue that micromanages to the point where absolutely nothing is left to chance did not have any input on this storyline at all. Woods’s return to the fold, one which has already shown he can compete with the best in his sport, has merely coincided with the first major of 2018.There are contrasting theories at play. It is without question that onlookers, especially those of sceptical disposition, have forgotten or chosen to ignore just how good a fully functioning Woods was. He is not a normal player, he cannot be judged via ordinary criteria. Woods made a career out of making the impossible seem perfectly natural. The second strand is the overlooking of so many of the world’s current best players as the spotlight is fixed on one man. It may appear callous but it is also logical – backing the field against Woods has merit. Justin Thomas, the player of the year thus far, was only part of early week chatter because he played a practice round in the company of the man he once idolised.Dustin Johnson, the world No 1, has barely been afforded a mention in this Masters build-up. Johnson was fourth and sixth in his past two Augusta outings, and the finest golfer in the world a year ago only to be undermined by a topple down a flight of stairs. Johnson has the power to batter parts of Augusta National into pitiful submission. He is, though, respectful of the Woods pull.“He has still got an intimidation factor,” Johnson said. “It is Tiger Woods. He is probably one of the best to ever play the game. So you would have to think he is going to figure out a way to get it [his game] back. He has.”That Justin Rose is as motivated as never before is patently obvious after his play-off defeat by Sergio García here, 12 months ago. The Englishman’s Masters statistics are more striking than most. He has finished outside of the top 20 only once since 2008. Rose has returned two second-place finishes in three years. A successful García defence cannot be ruled out.Jordan Spieth’s Augusta specialism barely requires repetition. The same applies to Bubba Watson, who produced a comfortable victory at the WGC Match Play in Austin last month. Phil Mickelson must have a live chance of becoming the oldest winner in Masters history. Spieth has been candid enough to admit he probably did not appreciate the scale of the Masters when first featuring in Georgia.“As an individual, I think I was a little naive to it,” Spieth said. “After 2014, I realised what it actually meant. An American winning the Masters is a really special thing. This is essentially our Super Bowl.”Rory McIlroy’s Masters destiny seems intrinsically linked to attitude. He freely admits there have been past occasions where the scale of a Masters triumph and all that comes with it has permitted the game’s most natural artist from reaching his holy grail. This week, McIlroy has exuded a relaxed, quiet confidence that renders him worthy of attention. The McIlroy completion of a clean sweep of majors, becoming only the sixth man in history to reach that peak, would not be such an awful alternative to Woods blasting back from the brink.To the masses, however, there may be just a single show in town. “This is my 42nd Masters,” the new Masters chairman, Fred Ridley, said. “I have never been a part of this week where there’s been any more excitement.” He was not exaggerating. Dustin Johnson Share on WhatsApp … we have a small favour to ask. More people, like you, are reading and supporting the Guardian’s independent, investigative journalism than ever before. And unlike many news organisations, we made the choice to keep our reporting open for all, regardless of where they live or what they can afford to pay.The Guardian will engage with the most critical issues of our time – from the escalating climate catastrophe to widespread inequality to the influence of big tech on our lives. At a time when factual information is a necessity, we believe that each of us, around the world, deserves access to accurate reporting with integrity at its heart.Our editorial independence means we set our own agenda and voice our own opinions. Guardian journalism is free from commercial and political bias and not influenced by billionaire owners or shareholders. This means we can give a voice to those less heard, explore where others turn away, and rigorously challenge those in power.We hope you will consider supporting us today. We need your support to keep delivering quality journalism that’s open and independent. Every reader contribution, however big or small, is so valuable. Support The Guardian from as little as $1 – and it only takes a minute. Thank you. Tiger Woods Share on Twitter
“I am really excited about this move,” Fabinho told Liverpool’s website. “This is something that I always wanted – this is a giant of a team. The infrastructures of the club look exceptional. A football club of this size coming after my services: I didn’t have to think that much about coming over. I will try to create my own history at this football club. Hopefully, on a personal level, I’m able to win titles with this club.”Manchester United had also been credited with an interest in the player, whose agent is Jorge Mendes, but are now expected to sign Fabinho’s international team-mate Fred from Shakhtar Donetsk instead.The Germany international Can is expected to leave Anfield for Juventus after rejecting the offer of a new contract, with reports in Italy that he was due to complete a medical this week.The signing of Fabinho, therefore, represents something of a coup for Liverpool, who have already secured the arrival of the Guinea midfielder Naby Keïta from RB Leipzig this summer and have held talks to sign France forward Nabil Fekir from Lyon. Having begun his career in Europe as a right back, the former Fluminense youth team product has been converted to a central midfielder in recent seasons and starred as Monaco won the French league title in 2016/17.Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah will travel to Spain on Wednesday to undergo treatment on his shoulder injury, the Egyptian Football Federation has announced.The Reds’ 44-goal top scorer was forced off midway through the first half of Saturday’s Champions League final defeat against Real Madrid due to the problem sustained in a tangle with Sergio Ramos.Salah tweeted on Sunday that he remained “confident” of being available for Egypt’s World Cup campaign in Russia, and on Monday evening it was confirmed he will head to Spain. Share on LinkedIn Liverpool Topics Monaco Share via Email Share on Messenger news Share on Facebook
Liverpool FC (@LFC)Welcome to #LFC, Fabinho. 🙌https://t.co/Xd7ylCfnqJ pic.twitter.com/nYbV243DY5May 28, 2018 Liverpool have confirmed the signing of the Brazil midfielder Fabinho from Monaco for £40m as a replacement for Emre Can as Jürgen Klopp steps up his summer recruitment drive.Negotiations with the Ligue 1 side over a €45m (£40m) fee plus a potential €5m in add-ons have been ongoing for several days, with a statement from Liverpool on Monday night confirming the 24-year-old will move to Anfield on 1 July after he completed a medical at the club’s training ground. Share on Pinterest Share on Twitter Manchester United Share on WhatsApp Reuse this content
features NSW on brink of State of Origin greatness, says Brad Fittler Share on Pinterest Yet these victorious Blues know Suncorp. They’ve played Brisbane Broncos often enough in front of 30,000-plus. For sure, Suncorp on Origin night is a bubbling brew, and parochially so. Billy Moore will stand in the middle of the field before kick-off and bellow his patented “Queenslander” call to each of the four sides of the ground, and Queenslanders will bellow back.How will they play it? The Maroons made plenty of hay on the outskirts last start with their retiring champion Billy Slater running hard, convincing angles and feeding his teammates. For all the talk of the Blues’ speedsters, the Maroons outsiders Dane Gagai, Valentine Holmes and Corey Oates are capable of hot-footed action and flying corner-flag slam-downs.Elsewhere Cameron Munster is a super player and Daly Cherry-Evans is a Queenslander again. If the latter rips off a few try-making plays, he may be able to win over a crowd that hasn’t always been drawn to him after he played Gold Coast Titans off a break to enrich himself.In this one, the Maroons need to hold the middle if they are to triumph. The darting Damien Cook looms as Queensland’s most wanted. Tearing up the middle and feeding James Maloney and James Tedesco – it’s the stuff of nightmares. The 27-year-old Cook is prime. Share on WhatsApp Share via Email Because you can’t play rugby league thus. Tackles are called hits or shots. The game demands commitment, confrontation and cartoon hate. In 2001 they held an old boys’ game of legends from NSW and Queensland, and Mark McGaw went all red mist on Mal Meninga, and the pair traded blows. Their combined age was 78. And that was a friendly, but the mien of old league dogs dies hard.As it was on that funny, feisty evening at Leichhardt Oval, so will it be at the Coliseum of Queensland, Suncorp Stadium, for the dead rubber that is the third Origin of 2018. Dead? Forget it. These teams don’t play meaningless fixtures. NSW has won the series but both sides will be ravenous to win. It’s Origin. And that’s just it.Come Wednesday evening at 7:45pm, the ground and the crowd therein will be a factor. At Suncorp fans are on the players – it’s a steep-walled and purpose-built rectangular theatre. As it was at Lang Park, the atmosphere is thick and un-friendly for the visitors from NSW.Sign up to receive the latest Australian sports stories every day … we have a small favour to ask. More people, like you, are reading and supporting the Guardian’s independent, investigative journalism than ever before. And unlike many news organisations, we made the choice to keep our reporting open for all, regardless of where they live or what they can afford to pay.The Guardian will engage with the most critical issues of our time – from the escalating climate catastrophe to widespread inequality to the influence of big tech on our lives. At a time when factual information is a necessity, we believe that each of us, around the world, deserves access to accurate reporting with integrity at its heart.Our editorial independence means we set our own agenda and voice our own opinions. Guardian journalism is free from commercial and political bias and not influenced by billionaire owners or shareholders. This means we can give a voice to those less heard, explore where others turn away, and rigorously challenge those in power.We hope you will consider supporting us today. We need your support to keep delivering quality journalism that’s open and independent. Every reader contribution, however big or small, is so valuable. Support The Guardian from as little as $1 – and it only takes a minute. Thank you. Rugby league Reuse this content Support The Guardian Topics State of Origin Read more Guardian Australia sport newsletter: subscribe by email The battle between the big middle men will, as ever, decide how much ragged meat Cook can rent asunder. The Maroons have a live one in Jai Arrow and a Bond henchman in Josh Papalii. Yet they appear to lack at least one really big one to combat the Blues’ powerhouse props David Klemmer and Paul Vaughan, tearaway berserkers cut from the same side of beef.After 20 minutes Tariq Sims will tear off the bench on debut to join his Dragons teammates Jack de Belin and Tyson Frizell. And the more you read the other names in the Blues’ forward roster – Boyd Cordner, Jake Trbojevic, Angus Chrichton – the more you like them. On paper, anyway, they are the tastier burger.Of course the game will be played on Suncorp’s 136m x 82m Strathayr turf surface. And the Maroons will be doing their best for Billy Slater in his last Origin game. They’ll be doing it for coach Kevin Walters, and themselves. And their people, including the 50,000 or so in the stands.But there is still a lot to like about the Blues, as there has been all series. Their halves, particularly, are the real deal: Maloney, 32, the senior man with no baggage; Nathan Cleary, 20, the gun mover. Both are generals, both are high-skilled, and they’ll just keep coming, feeding and playing. It’s the way of their coach, Brad Fittler. He played thus and it’s how he conducts himself today. There are shades the Svengali about him – he talks like he’s on holiday. “We’ve set it up so we’ve stayed in some beautiful places,” he told media in Brisbane. “We’ve been out this morning walking, making the most out of life. It’s been pretty wonderful. I get to go back and cook my own breakfast now. It’s all pretty sad.”And then his eyes twinkled and he stifled a laugh as if he’d shared an in-gag with friends. The man has a fine sense of ridiculous. Even Queenslanders couldn’t hate him. Or could they? Origin does strange things to people – as Mark McGaw could tell you. Share on Facebook For a variety of reasons the concept of friendlies to the majority of Australian sports folk is a foreign one. Be it the dearth of international football played, or some chippy competitive spirit borne out of convict anthropology, Australia doesn’t really play friendly matches. And in rugby league they don’t exist at all. Australia sport Share on Twitter Read more Since you’re here… Share on LinkedIn Share on Messenger NRL
Pinterest Australian Open 2019 The unseeded Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova won a marathon three-setter against Sloane Stephens 6-7, 6-3, 6-3 to reach the Australian Open quarter-finals and match her best show in grand slams.The match ended in the early hours of Monday in Melbourne. Stephens gave up a 4-1 advantage in the opening set to win it on a tiebreaker but Pavlyuchenkova rallied once again from an early break down to convert her third set point and level the match.The 2017 US Open winner, who was the No5 seed in Melbourne, then lost steam as the world No44 converted her second match point to seal the contest in two hours and 32 minutes. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Australian Open: Barty overcomes first-set loss to see off Sharapova Pavlyuchenkova will meet another American for a place in the semi-finals after unseeded Danielle Collins thrashed 2016 champion and second seed Angelique Kerber 6-0, 6-2 earlier in the day. Collins, who had never won a grand slam match before this tournament, needed just 56 minutes to brush aside Kerber in one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Collins hit 29 winners against Kerber – a three-time major winner who had been considered a strong candidate to claim the Australian Open title for a second time.“I may not have won a grand slam match before this but I’ve got to tell you, I think it’s going to keep happening,” the 25-year-old Collins said after the match. Support The Guardian Topics Reuse this content Sloane Stephens Twitter Facebook Share on WhatsApp Read more US sports Share on Pinterest Since you’re here… Share on Messenger Australian Open Share via Email Collins roared after hitting a drop-shot winner to curb an increasingly vocal Kerber’s momentum. “I love making it kind of a war,” she said. “If somebody wants to get in my face on my unforced errors, I have no problem getting right back at them and making it a feisty match.”Collins has had a meteoric rise up the world rankings, breaking into the top 40 last season after starting the year 136. Collins – the daughter of a landscaper and a preschool teacher – forged a relatively unusual path to the elite ranks, forgoing the junior circuit and playing college tennis at the University of Virginia.“I think going to college helped me develop myself as a person,” Collins said. “I really know who I am; the type of person I am; what I want; what I want to do with my life; what I want to do with my tennis. I have other interests and passions aside from tennis. I’m able to relax a little bit more maybe than some other people because they’ve kind of just been doing tennis their whole life, haven’t really ventured out much.” Danielle Collins is enjoying a superb run in Melbourne. Photograph: TPN/Getty Images Tennis Australia sport … we have a small favour to ask. More people, like you, are reading and supporting the Guardian’s independent, investigative journalism than ever before. And unlike many news organisations, we made the choice to keep our reporting open for all, regardless of where they live or what they can afford to pay. Whether we are up close or further away, the Guardian brings our readers a global perspective on the most critical issues of our lifetimes – from the escalating climate catastrophe to widespread inequality to the influence of big tech on our lives. We believe complex stories need context in order for us to truly understand them. At a time when factual information is a necessity, we believe that each of us, around the world, deserves access to accurate reporting with integrity at its heart.Our editorial independence means we set our own agenda and voice our own opinions. Guardian journalism is free from commercial and political bias and not influenced by billionaire owners or shareholders. This means we can give a voice to those less heard, explore where others turn away, and rigorously challenge those in power.We hope you will consider supporting us today. We need your support to keep delivering quality journalism that’s open and independent. Every reader contribution, however big or small, is so valuable. Support The Guardian from as little as $1 – and it only takes a minute. Thank you. Share on LinkedIn
Greeted by a near-glowing emerald green pitch and balmy Cardiff conditions, New Zealand opened their Cricket World Cup campaign as if they were whipping out the flip-flops and savouring a casual summer stroll.Their 10-wicket victory over slumping Sri Lanka, secured with 203 balls to spare, really was that comfortable. Much tougher assignments await but New Zealand could not have wished for a better start. Winning the toss and bowling first certainly enhanced this mismatch but they still had to exploit the favourable conditions. By doing just that, once again they proved when the ball swings or seams this unit poses major problems.Led by the swift redemption of Matt Henry and a template they hope to replicate throughout this tournament, New Zealand’s attack felt right at home on a surface that mirrored the Kermit green often seen on the first morning of a Test at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.On the evidence of this effort Sri Lanka could well contest the wooden spoon. Regardless, this was always a must-win match for New Zealand’s hopes of at least reaching the semi-finals. With one dominant win in the books and Bangladesh and Afghanistan to follow in the first week, the chance is there for early successes before the headline fixtures arrive.There were no signs of first-game jitters nor disruption despite New Zealand juggling late changes after a calf complaint ruled out the experienced seamer Tim Southee and a hamstring problem with Henry Nicholls forced a reshuffle at the top of the order. Read more Since you’re here… Cricket World Cup 2019 Cricket World Cup 2019: final group stage standings The final aspect New Zealand take from this whitewash is a positive run-rate. With semi-final places set to be hotly contested, such an early boost cannot be scoffed at.“It’s always nice to have a healthy run-rate at the start of a tournament,” Guptill said. “Once we had them seven or eight down we wanted to try to knock them over and the runs off as quick as possible. “The beauty about our guys is they can exploit those conditions quite regularly. We put the ball in the right areas enough to get the rewards up front.“If we bowl first in the next few games hopefully we can continue to make it difficult for the guys to score and if we can come out and play with the freedom with the bat like we did today we’re going to have a pretty successful tournament.” Sri Lanka’s captain, Dimuth Karunaratne, did his best to restore respectability as he became the 12th batsman in ODIs to carry his bat with all his teammates dismissed – the second in World Cups after West Indies’ Ridley Jacobs against Australia in 1999. But his lone half-century barely saved face. The strong contingent of Sri Lanka supporters made their feelings clear with a chorus of boos at the end of the match.By the time Martin Guptill and Colin Munro, promoted to fill Nicholls’s place, strode out to reply in the early afternoon sun, the wicket had flattened and they used their feet to counter any lingering movement.With the pressure off, Guptill and Munro played with freedom Sri Lanka never enjoyed to notch their highest opening partnership. Guptill’s unbeaten 73 from 51 balls should settle nerves and after a lean trot Munro’s first half-century in 18 ODI innings will ease pressure on his shoulders. Ben Stokes’s ‘catch of the century’ and The Hundred names – The Spin podcast Listen Topics In what shaped as a tight selection call before Southee’s withdrawal, Henry grabbed the new ball and seized his chance with three for 29 that ripped through Sri Lanka’s meek resistance with a man-of-the-match spell. It was a far cry from Henry’s performance in New Zealand’s final warm-up match when West Indies thumped him to all parts of Bristol on the way to figures of two for 107 from nine overs.While Trent Boult, the second-ranked bowler at this tournament, struggled for consistency, Henry found quality support from Lockie Ferguson, New Zealand’s answer to Jofra Archer, who finished with three for 22. Henry, Ferguson and Colin de Grandhomme, with his nibble away, all struck in their first overs to have Sri Lanka on the ropes. Such was the horror show at one stage they lost five wickets for 14 runs. From there they never recovered. … we have a small favour to ask. More people are reading and supporting The Guardian’s independent, investigative journalism than ever before. And unlike many new organisations, we have chosen an approach that allows us to keep our journalism accessible to all, regardless of where they live or what they can afford. But we need your ongoing support to keep working as we do.The Guardian will engage with the most critical issues of our time – from the escalating climate catastrophe to widespread inequality to the influence of big tech on our lives. At a time when factual information is a necessity, we believe that each of us, around the world, deserves access to accurate reporting with integrity at its heart.Our editorial independence means we set our own agenda and voice our own opinions. Guardian journalism is free from commercial and political bias and not influenced by billionaire owners or shareholders. This means we can give a voice to those less heard, explore where others turn away, and rigorously challenge those in power.We need your support to keep delivering quality journalism, to maintain our openness and to protect our precious independence. Every reader contribution, big or small, is so valuable. Support The Guardian from as little as $1 – and it only takes a minute. Thank you. 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Share on LinkedIn The Observer Ben Stokes magic conjures higher hopes of England success Support The Guardian Share on Pinterest Cricket World Cup 2019: New Zealand beat Sri Lanka by 10 wickets – as it happened! Share on Messenger Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Sri Lanka cricket team Read more Share via Email Cricket Reuse this content
The Breakdown: sign up and get our weekly rugby union email. Support The Guardian Read more Rugby union Warren Gatland Gatland’s New Zealand opposite number, Steve Hansen, left on a winning note and said he expected the All Blacks to continue to be a force in the game, although he warned reporters: “I have promised that I will not be talking about what they are doing and what they should be doing. If anyone rings to ask me, it won’t be a very good conversation.”Hansen was asked whether he welcomed Gatland’s return to New Zealand, but gave an equivocal reply, saying: “He has done a wonderful job with Wales, but I am not sure how it will work in New Zealand because he is only spending a year with the Chiefs and doing the Lions after that. There does not seem to be a lot of continuity, but I am sure they will work their way through that.”• This article was amended on 4 November 2019. The 2021 Lions tour is to South Africa, not New Zealand as stated in an earlier version. Rugby World Cup Since you’re here… Share on Pinterest Topics Share on Messenger Share on Facebook Wales rugby union team
Warren Gatland’s 124th match in charge of Wales ended in defeat against his native New Zealand, but he finished his 12 years considerably in credit and said he would be heartbroken if the gains made since he took over, at a time when they were 10th in the world rankings, are squandered in the coming seasons.Gatland, who is taking charge of the Chiefs in New Zealand next year before having a sabbatical to prepare for the 2021 Lions tour to South Africa, will be back in Cardiff at the end of the month. He will be coaching the Barbarians against Wales who will be under his successor as head coach, Wayne Pivac, for the first time. “I hope they continue to build on what we have achieved in the last 12 years,” he said after Wales’s defeat by New Zealand in the bronze medal match meant they finished fourth in the tournament for the second time since he took over. “It would break my heart if Wales went back into the doldrums.“I will miss the energy of the players, who are a great bunch of men to work with. Everywhere we have been in Japan the reaction of how they have conducted themselves has been incredibly positive. It was disappointing to lose my last match but it was clear that the five-day turnaround after the semi-final and the loss of four players took a toll.“I just hope that Wales continue to be competitive against the top nations. It has been good for Stephen Jones [Pivac’s attack coach] to be here and see how we do things. The opportunity for the next group is to come in and improve on what we have created. I am looking forward to the Barbarians game because it will give me an opportunity to say thank you to the Welsh public and show how much I have enjoyed my time there.” Share via Email news Share on Twitter New Zealand swat Wales aside to win Rugby World Cup bronze final Reuse this content … we have a small favour to ask. More people are reading and supporting The Guardian’s independent, investigative journalism than ever before. And unlike many new organisations, we have chosen an approach that allows us to keep our journalism accessible to all, regardless of where they live or what they can afford. But we need your ongoing support to keep working as we do.The Guardian will engage with the most critical issues of our time – from the escalating climate catastrophe to widespread inequality to the influence of big tech on our lives. At a time when factual information is a necessity, we believe that each of us, around the world, deserves access to accurate reporting with integrity at its heart.Our editorial independence means we set our own agenda and voice our own opinions. Guardian journalism is free from commercial and political bias and not influenced by billionaire owners or shareholders. This means we can give a voice to those less heard, explore where others turn away, and rigorously challenge those in power.We need your support to keep delivering quality journalism, to maintain our openness and to protect our precious independence. Every reader contribution, big or small, is so valuable. Support The Guardian from as little as $1 – and it only takes a minute. Thank you. Share on WhatsApp Share on LinkedIn Rugby World Cup 2019
Manchester United ‘Lingard is the English Iniesta’ – Meulensteen says Man Utd star would shine at Barcelona Chris Burton Last updated 1 year ago 00:13 1/27/18 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(6) 
Getty Images Manchester United Barcelona Premier League The former Red Devils coach believes the England international boasts many of the attributes which have made a World Cup winner an icon at Camp Nou Jesse Lingard has impressed for Manchester United of late and Rene Meulensteen considers him to be the “English Andres Iniesta”.The 25-year-old midfielder has rarely been considered a regular starter since making the breakthrough at Old Trafford, never mind one of the brightest stars in the Red Devils galaxy.He has, however, proved his worth this season, with a recent productive run in front of goal delivering eight strikes in 10 appearances. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Lyon treble & England heartbreak: The full story behind Lucy Bronze’s dramatic 2019 Liverpool v Man City is now the league’s biggest rivalry and the bitterness is growing Megan Rapinoe: Born & brilliant in the U.S.A. A Liverpool legend in the making: Behind Virgil van Dijk’s remarkable rise to world’s best player Lingard has been showered with praise on the back of that contribution, and a former United first-team coach has now likened him to a World Cup-winning icon on Barcelona’s books.Meulensteen, who worked with the youth and reserve sides at Old Trafford before returning to assist Sir Alex Ferguson in 2007, told Bleacher Report of Lingard: “I saw so many similarities in their games, and I always believed that Jesse was the English Andres Iniesta.”Like Iniesta, he finds these pockets of space, he is always on the move and has very good feet. The only thing missing until recently was goals, but now Jesse is scoring important goals too.”In my opinion, you could fly Jesse to Barcelona, let him play in Iniesta’s position, and he would comfortably be able to do it and fit in. And he does it in the Premier League, which is more difficult than La Liga, so that is a credit to Jesse.”Meulensteen can claim to have helped put Lingard on the path to the top, having worked with him in United’s academy set-up.He admits that he was not the only one to spot obvious potential at that time, with senior stars such as Ruud van Nistelrooy and Diego Forlan impressed by what they saw from a promising youngster.”I can recall players like Ruud van Nistelrooy and Diego Forlan coming down to watch our sessions, and when they saw Jesse, both said, ‘Jesus, this boy is good!'” added the Dutchman, who recently left a role with Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters.”The major concern with Lingard was always about his being significantly smaller than the other boys in his age group, and when he was an under-18, he stayed with the under-16s because of his size. But the United coaches refused to lose faith and believed he would just take longer to mature as a player. “In England, you need physical strength, and we knew Jesse was never going to be like Cristiano Ronaldo. But Sir Alex himself was never worried by Jesse’s size; all he ever asked us coaches was, ‘Can the boy play?'”
Transfers Valencia sign Kondogbia on permanent deal from Inter Dom Farrell 20:23 5/24/18 FacebookTwitterRedditcopy Comments(0) 
Getty Transfers Valencia Internazionale Serie A Primera División The midfielder had a successful season on loan with the Spanish side from Inter and will spend the next four years at the Mestalla Valencia have signed Inter and France midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia on a permanent basis following a successful season on loan at the Mestalla.Kondogbia has signed a contract running until 2022 and the transfer fee is reported to be in the region of €25 million (£22m/$29m).Valencia have confirmed the 25-year-old’s deal contains a release clause of €80m (£70m/$93m). Article continues below Editors’ Picks Goalkeeper crisis! Walker to the rescue but City sweating on Ederson injury ahead of Liverpool clash Out of his depth! Emery on borrowed time after another abysmal Arsenal display Diving, tactical fouls & the emerging war of words between Guardiola & Klopp Sorry, Cristiano! Pjanic is Juventus’ most important player right now “I’m very happy and proud to be part of this team,” he told the club’s website. “Valencia is a wonderful club and I want to be part of its history.”We all know Valencia is an ambitious club, which for me is important. I also want to take a step forward in my career and things are going well.”Kondogbia, who joined Inter from Monaco in June 2015, made 31 La Liga appearances and scored four times this season as Valencia sealed a return to the Champions League with a fourth-place finish.However, his form was not good enough to earn a place in Didier Deschamps’ France squad for the 2018 World Cup.”Things in football aren’t always fair,” he told Valencia’s club radio station when discussing the snub.We’ve got some good news…. pic.twitter.com/0P1BqbBCO1 — Valencia CF English (@valenciacf_en) May 24, 2018 “I’m proud of my team and myself. I’ve done my job but it’s not just that, there are other factors that count in order to get the call-up.”I knew it would be difficult but the most important thing is that we have done a great job and we are happy.”The work is done and the performance of each player has improved.”
Welcome to another edition of 60 seconds in Touch… * Aussie Mens 20’s player Mat Bird was, on the weekend, cleared of all charges of misconduct stemming from the incident-riddled Mens 20 years match at the recent Youth World Cup. After a 2 hour judiciary a relieved Bird was given the all-clear to continue to play Touch at all levels and is now looking forward to the National Touch League in March. * The NTL’s are just two and a half weeks away and the ATA office is getting hectic, with deadlines for the tournament magazine and merchandise orders coming and going. Boxes of merchandise are beginning to pile up, with ATA staff modeling various pieces of clothing for approval from Gwynne about what she’s ordered, so don’t forget to bring some spare change to Coffs because there’s some great new merchandise there for purchase. * The revised NTL draw will be uploaded onto the ATA website by the end of this week, so keep an eye out on the homepage for all the latest info on your matches, opponents and fields. * It seems that NSW Touch really should go into business as rain dancers…following the 2004 NSW State Cup last December, where they dealt with severe thunderstorms in Port Macquarie, the 2005 Junior State Cup was washed out Saturday afternoon when hail and lightning made play to dangerous for the 275 teams competing. An organizational nightmare no doubt for NSW Touch organisers, all got back on track on Sunday to decide the finals winners. * For anyone who was jumping on the internet to check out results of the NSW Junior State Cup and wondering what the go was…a lightning strike took out the phone line NSW Touch were using to upload all results! Results will no doubt be uploaded as soon as possible. * If you’ve been wondering where the ATA is at on the Management Audit, check out the latest story on the ATA homepage PROCESS WELL UNDERWAY FOR UNITARY MODEL OF MANAGMENT If you’re not keen on reading large amounts of text, check out the flow chart (in lots of different colours!) or the power point presentation, which simplifies what has been happening for the Management of Touch Football Australia wide. * For anyone interested in the Seniors selection or All Nations tournament in October this years, all information can be found on the All Nations page on the ATA site, simply click on `Tournament’ then `International Events’ then `All Nations- New Zealand 2005′. Also check out the ATA homepage for the story ALL NATIONS TOURNAMENT- SENIORS SELECTION STORY * Just to make sure you all know…the websites for all local associations can be accessed from the ATA homepage, simply by clicking on the `local’ link on the top right hand corner and then scrolling down to the relevant association. * This week’s `Local Association of the Week’ is City Touch from Adelaide. If you’re keen to see what can be done with your local association’s website, I suggest you have a look at this one…CITY TOUCH- ADELAIDE They have all the latest news, resources for all interested in Touch, a downloads section including registration and nomination forms, information on sponsors and deals for City Touch members, referee allocations and also information on weather, the weather line and their buzzword for SMS weather reports. It’s a great example of a local association website helping to promote and develop Touch in their region. * The ATA calendar is slowly building its stock, with events at a local, regional, state and national level being added. (use the calendar link on the ATA homepage to check it out.) Remember, if you have something you would like added to the calendar, simply email the details to media@austouch.com.au * After 120 votes the Mets, Sharks, Scorpions, Cobras and Rustlers are sitting on 53% approval that they will be the top 5 finishing permits at the NTL. The Cobras, Scorpions, Suns, Mets and Rustlers are the second most popular combination with 15% of the votes. Check out the poll on the ATA homepage for all the results. * Remember, all requests for assistance in getting in touch with your local newspaper of media outlet for the NTL can be sent to Rachel Moyle at media@austouch.com.au She’s ready and willing to give your Permit a hand with gaining some media coverage before, during or after the tournament. By Rachel Moyle, media@austouch.com.au
Tasmania’s best players will battle it out for State Cup honours on Saturday, 27 November, while a record number of junior teams will compete in the Junior State Cup on Sunday, 28 November 2010.Southern Touch and Launceston Touch Association will contest all six divisions (Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Mixed Open, Men’s 30’s, 18’s Boys, 18’s Girls) while Devonport Touch Association will also compete in the Mixed Open division. Games will commence at 9.00am, with the finals/final games to be played in the following timeslots: 3.25pmMen’s 30’s – Game Three18’s Boys – Game Three4.20pmMen’s Open – Game Three18’s Girls – Game Three5.15pmWomen’s Open FinalMixed Open FinalSunday will see 20 junior teams compete in the Junior State Cup across six divisions – 12’s Boys, 12’s Girls, 14’s Boys, 14’s Girls, 16’s Boys and16’s Girls. Finals of the Junior State Cup will be played in the following timeslots:4.50pm14’s Boys Final12’s Girls – DTA v Pirates (Game Three)12’s Boys Final5.40pm16’s Girls Final16’s Boys Final14’s Girls FinalFor more information, please visit Touch Football Tasmania’s website: www.tastouch.com.au
Touch Football Australia congratulates prominent NRL referee and part-time Touch Football administrator/referee, Shayne Hayne, on his appointment to this weekend’s NRL Grand Final. Hayne is Berkeley Vale Touch Association’s Operations Manager and in between NRL fixtures devotes his time and energies to managing and growing his local Touch Football association and pulls out the Touch Football whistle when time and the opportunity permits. Hayne was awarded the Hunter Western Hornets Regional Administrator of the Year at the 2012 New South Wales Touch Association’s (NSWTA) Blues Dinner and made his New South Wales State Cup debut as a referee alongside son, Keegan at the 2012 event. On the other side of the stripe, there will also be a strong Touch Football presence at the NRL Grand Final on Sunday outside ANZ Stadium, with New South Wales Touch Football representatives conducting a live site for spectators prior to kick-off. The live site will feature pass-the-ball stations and promotions to encourage spectators to play Touch Football this summer, and by registering their interest, be in the chance to win some prizes on the dayStay tuned for a full-wrap of the Touch Football Live Site Grand Final day festivities. Related LinksNRL Final
Australian Women’s Open representative, Maddison Studdon has been named in the Australian Jillaroos Rugby League team to debut against New Zealand in just under three weeks’ time. In what has been a big week for Studdon, who celebrated her 20th birthday last week, this announcement follows her New South Wales Female Player of the Year award at the New South Wales Touch Association’s Blues Awards Dinner on Saturday night. Studdon is one of six debutants in the team, with 12 players returning from the 2013 World Cup winning Jillaroos team including former Australian Youth Touch Football representative, Sam Hammond. The Jillaroos will play the NZ Kiwi Ferns as a curtain raiser to the NRL’s Four Nations tournament match between the Holden Kangaroos and Samoa at WIN Stadium in Wollongong on Sunday, 9 November.Studdon was involved in the Women’s All Stars team that defeated the Indigenous Women’s All Stars team in the curtain raiser to the NRL Trans Tasman Test in May but November’s Test Match will be Studdon’s first as a Jillaroo. Another former Australian Youth representative, the Penrith Panthers’ Matt Moylan, was last week called into the Holden Kangaroos squad. Touch Football Australia would like to congratulate Maddie on her achievement and wish her the best of luck for the upcoming Test match. Related LinksStuddon to debut
England U21 boss Boothroyd praises Chelsea winger Hudson-Odoiby Paul Vegas9 days agoSend to a friendShare the loveEngland U21 boss Aidy Boothroyd has lauded Callum Hudson-Odoi for showing a “first-class” attitude after dropping down from the senior team.The Chelsea winger was simply sublime in the Young Lions’ 5-1 win over Austria on Tuesday.”I hope not,’ the boss replied when quizzed on if he thought that would be the last time he would be involved with the Young Lions.”He’s been brilliant for us, if a player was a senior and then came back down to us they could be moody but he has been first class, on and off the pitch.”If anything in both games he was almost trying too hard, things don’t come off but what he did tonight was exceptional.” About the authorPaul VegasShare the loveHave your say
Arsenal boss Emery: I speak every day with Raul & Eduby Freddie Taylor4 days agoSend to a friendShare the loveArsenal manager Unai Emery says he is constant contact with the club’s directors.The Gunners boss knows that fans are expecting a Champions League place at minimum.And Emery says he speaks daily with head of football Raul Sanllehi and sporting director Edu about bringing success to the club.”I am speaking every day with Raul, Edu and with the players,” Emery told reporters ahead of their next Premier League game against Sheffield United on Monday.”Our work is more important than our words and really now I am very happy at the club. I am really happy with the players. The last two, three, four weeks, every player – and Mesut Ozil – is working very well.”This is why we can be positive and we can think we are going to do something important this year. I was speaking with Raul and this is the same idea when he is speaking with me.” About the authorFreddie TaylorShare the loveHave your say
Liverpool youngster Jack Bearne signs first pro contractby Paul Vegas3 days agoSend to a friendShare the loveLiverpool youngster Jack Bearne has signed his first professional contract.The versatile forward, who turned 18 last month, is a member of Barry Lewtas’ U18s squad.Born in Nottingham, Bearne originally signed for the Reds in December 2016 from his hometown club Notts County and moved to the city in April 2017.He played a significant role in the success of the U18 team last season, converting a penalty in the decisive shootout which secured victory in the FA Youth Cup and scoring the winner in both meetings with Everton. TagsTransfersAbout the authorPaul VegasShare the loveHave your say
maurice clarett florida stateFormer Ohio State running back Maurice Clarett, who is now a motivational speaker, is making the rounds this August to talk to players at different college football programs ahead of the 2015 campaign. Last week, he was in Tuscaloosa to give the Alabama Crimson Tide some advice. This week, he’s in Tallahassee, talking to the Florida State Seminoles, who have come under fire recently for a number of off-the-field incidents.ESPN captured some of the footage, and needless to say, Clarett is a changed man. He makes some solid points about both life and football. Whether you’re a supporter of the Buckeyes or the Seminoles, you’ll likely enjoy it:
