Thursday, October 21, 2010
Stalemate at Manchester United after Rooney talks
Wayne Rooney's future at Manchester United remained unclear Thursday after the English Premier League giants held a series of meetings to resolve the crisis.
Manager Alex Ferguson had talks with the club's chief executive David Gill and Rooney's representatives, a day after the England striker repeated his intention to leave United.
But after the discussion, United could only issue a holding statement, urging their fans to be patient.
Rooney arrogant to think he is bigger than the club
Four Liverpool fans attacked in Naples ahead of Europa League game
Four English football fans were attacked in Italy on the eve of a game Thursday between Liverpool and Naples, Naples police told CNN.
Two were stabbed and have been hospitalized with serious but not life-threatening conditions, police said. Two were beaten with sticks and one is hospitalized in serious condition, they said.
The other one, who was attacked in a different incident, is not badly hurt. Three men have been arrested.
Police blamed the attacks on "football fanaticism" and are looking for the other attackers, they said.
An Italian restaurant owner also was attacked Wednesday night after confronting masked men who were harassing British tourists eating in his restaurant, police said Thursday.
Webber: It's too early for F1 title talk
Formula One world championship leader Mark Webber believes it is too early to
start thinking about winning the title despite having a 14-point lead with only
three races left.
The main rivals to the Red Bull driver are his teammate Sebastian Vettel and Ferrari's Fernando Alonso, who are tied for second in the standings.
McLaren pair Lewis Hamilton and reigning champion Jenson Button are also still in contention for the crown.
Webber knows he will become champion if he wins one of the season's remaining races and scores podium finishes in the other two, with trips to Brazil and Abu Dhabi finishing off this year's calendar.
The main rivals to the Red Bull driver are his teammate Sebastian Vettel and Ferrari's Fernando Alonso, who are tied for second in the standings.
McLaren pair Lewis Hamilton and reigning champion Jenson Button are also still in contention for the crown.
Webber knows he will become champion if he wins one of the season's remaining races and scores podium finishes in the other two, with trips to Brazil and Abu Dhabi finishing off this year's calendar.
Peruvian soccer players say opponents drugged them
For the Hijos de Acosvinchos soccer team, there was a lot at stake in their match Sunday against Sport Ancash.
If Hijos de Acosvinchos won, or simply tied, it would be enough to promote the team from Peru's second division to the top tier.
Their opponents, the team alleges, did everything in their power to stop that from happening, including allegedly spiking water bottles with barbiturates to slow down their players.
In the end, four players from Hijos de Acosvinchos became ill, including one who passed out on the field.
The players allege that they became sick after they accepted water offered by Sport Ancash staff.
"I had a very bad taste in my throat and that was the reason I drank while on the field. I felt lucid, but became more worried when my teammates started to fall on the field," said player Martin Reategui.
Titleholders Inter Milan gave newcomers Tottenham a Champions League lesson on Wednesday night before the English club's young winger Gareth Bale underlined his status as one of football's most promising prospects.
Inter moved three points clear at the top of Group A after leading 4-0 inside 35 minutes, but needed to withstand a late onslaught as Wales international Bale scored a second-half hat-trick.
The Italians went ahead after just 68 seconds as captain Javier Zanetti calmly sidefooted past Heurelho Gomes from a Samuel Eto'o pass, and the Brazilian goalkeeper was sent off six minutes later for bringing down winger Jonathan Biabiany.
Yankees avoid elimination in AL Championship Series
The defending World Series champion New York Yankees live to fight another
day.
Facing elimination in their American League Championship Series today, they beat the Texas Rangers 7-2 at Yankee Stadium and now trail in the best-of-seven series three games to two.
The Yankees got home runs from Nick Swisher, Robinson Cano and Curtis Granderson, and their ace CC Sabathia picked up the victory despite allowing 11 hits over six innings.
The series returns to Texas for game 6 on Friday night and game 7, if necessary, on Saturday night. Both games will be televised on TBS.
Facing elimination in their American League Championship Series today, they beat the Texas Rangers 7-2 at Yankee Stadium and now trail in the best-of-seven series three games to two.
The Yankees got home runs from Nick Swisher, Robinson Cano and Curtis Granderson, and their ace CC Sabathia picked up the victory despite allowing 11 hits over six innings.
The series returns to Texas for game 6 on Friday night and game 7, if necessary, on Saturday night. Both games will be televised on TBS.
Blatter laments 'sad day' as FIFA provisionally bans officials
Soccer's governing body has provisionally suspended two of its delegates who were accused of offering to sell their votes to countries bidding to host the 2018 World Cup.
FIFA announced on Wednesday that executive committee members Amos Adamu and Reynald Temarii have been banned from all football-related activities ahead of a further hearing next month.
Fellow FIFA officials Slim Aloulou, Amadou Diakite, Ahongalu Fusimalohi and Ismael Bhamjee have also been provisionally suspended in relation to an alleged breach of rules of the bidding process.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Massa will help Ferrari team-mate Alonso's title push
Ferrari driver Felipe Massa says he will work as hard as he
can in the remaining races to help team-mate Fernando Alonso win the world
title.
With three races left, former world champion Alonso trails championship
leader Mark Webber by 14 points. "I want to be fighting with those five drivers who are chasing the title, which is the best thing I can do to help Fernando," Massa said.
"Everyone in the team is pumped up for the challenge of the last three races."
Ducati's Casey Stoner secures Australian GP win
Casey Stoner has won the Australian MotoGP at Phillip Island
for the fourth successive year.
Having earned pole position on his 25th birthday on Saturday, the Australian
Ducati rider led from start to finish to seal the win in superb fashion. Stoner opened up a 1.5 second gap between himself and newly crowned MotoGP world champion Jorge Lorenzo within the first lap.
He eventually finished 8.598secs ahead of Lorenzo, with Valentino Rossi third.
Rossi, the 2009 world champion from Italy, stole in to finish third courtesy of a bold overtaking manoeuvre on United States rider Nicky Hayden in the final lap of the race.
Klitschko shot too soon for Dereck Chisora - David Haye
David Haye believes Dereck Chisora's world title shot against
Wladimir Klitschko has come far too soon.
British heavyweight champion Chisora, 26, challenges Klitschko for his IBF
and WBO belts in Mannheim, Germany in December, in only his 15th pro fight. "I hope he can pull it off but he's neither physically or mentally ready," said Haye, who defends his WBA belt against Audley Harrison on 13 November.
"British level and world level is a completely different sport."
Chisora has won all 14 of his professional fights but the biggest name on his resume is an over-the-hill Danny Williams, whom he knocked out in May.
Jail warning for Gazza for drink driving
Former footballer Paul Gascoigne has been warned he could
be jailed after admitting driving while more than four times the legal alcohol
limit.
The 43-year-old Tyneside-born former England midfielder appeared at Newcastle
Magistrates Court.Gascoigne was stopped by police in Newcastle on 8 October.
He is due to stand trial next month for allegedly drinking and driving in North Yorkshire in February.
On Wednesday, District Judge Stephen Earl was told Gascoigne had 142mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath when he was stopped in Jesmond, Newcastle, on 8 October.
The legal limit is 35mg. Judge Earl said all options "up to and including a custodial sentence" were open and a 12-week jail term was possible given the high level of alcohol recorded.
Rooney: Manchester United could not confirm star signings
English soccer star Wayne Rooney has revealed he wants to leave Manchester United because he did not receive assurances that the Premier League club will invest in top players.
The striker released a statement on Wednesday following his manager Alex Ferguson's own revelations about the 24-year-old's future the day before.
"I met with [United chief executive] David Gill last week and he did not give me any of the assurances I was seeking about the future squad," Rooney said.
"I then told him that I would not be signing a new contract."
Garcia: I want to be golf's No. 1
Sergio Garcia returns to golf at this week's Castello Masters on his home course in Spain refreshed after a two-month break and buzzing from Europe's Ryder Cup victory.
The former world No. 2 ruled himself out of Colin Montgomerie's plans when he decided to take a hiatus from the game to halt his deteriorating form, but was given a backroom role as vice-captain at Celtic Manor.
"I made the decision to stop between The Players Championship and the U.S. Open, as I had lost my motivation and felt drained," he told the European Tour website.
Ronaldo on target as Real beat Milan in Champions League
Real Madrid took a big step toward reaching the second round of the Champions League with a 2-0 home win over Group G rivals AC Milan on Tuesday night, while Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Arsenal also maintained their perfect start to Europe's premier club competition.
Real were beaten at home by the Italian side in the group stage last season, but the Spanish league leaders are now a different proposition under new coach Jose Mourinho, who led Inter Milan to final glory in May.
The game was virtually over after only 14 minutes as Cristiano Ronaldo and Mezut Ozil scored within 60 seconds of each other.
Ferguson: Rooney wants to leave Manchester United
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson confirmed on Tuesday that Wayne Rooney
wants to leave the English Premier
League club in a series of interviews aimed at ending speculation over the soccer star's future.
"We cannot quite understand why he would want to leave," Ferguson told reporters, revealing he had first known in August that Rooney would not sign a new contract. "We don't understand it. I can't answer any questions about why he is doing it.
"We can speculate.
League club in a series of interviews aimed at ending speculation over the soccer star's future.
"We cannot quite understand why he would want to leave," Ferguson told reporters, revealing he had first known in August that Rooney would not sign a new contract. "We don't understand it. I can't answer any questions about why he is doing it.
"We can speculate.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Tiger 'at peace' after frustrating year
Tiger Woods has revealed at that he is "more at peace" with
his life following a difficult year on and off the golf course, and he is now
hoping to re-establish himself as a major force in the sport.
The American faces the prospect of losing the No. 1 ranking he has held for five years before returning to action at the HSBC Champions event in China early next month.
But the 34-year-old, who divorced wife Elin Nordegren in August following his admitted infidelities, is encouraged by his improved form on the final day of the Ryder Cup earlier this month as he implements further changes to his technique.
The American faces the prospect of losing the No. 1 ranking he has held for five years before returning to action at the HSBC Champions event in China early next month.
But the 34-year-old, who divorced wife Elin Nordegren in August following his admitted infidelities, is encouraged by his improved form on the final day of the Ryder Cup earlier this month as he implements further changes to his technique.
Federer still focused on No. 1 ranking
Roger Federer aims to bounce back from his crushing final
defeat in Shanghai as he enters his final four tournaments of 2010 with a
long-awaited return to Sweden this week.
The 16-time Grand Slam winner moved back to second in the world rankings above Novak Djokovic despite being thrashed in straight sets by Andy Murray on Sunday.
He will open his campaign at the Stockholm Open on Thursday against American Taylor Dent in his first appearance at the ATP Tour event since 2010, having pulled out two years ago with a back injury.
The 16-time Grand Slam winner moved back to second in the world rankings above Novak Djokovic despite being thrashed in straight sets by Andy Murray on Sunday.
He will open his campaign at the Stockholm Open on Thursday against American Taylor Dent in his first appearance at the ATP Tour event since 2010, having pulled out two years ago with a back injury.
U.S. track star suspended for doping violation
U.S. Olympian LaShawn Merritt, a gold medalist in track and field, was suspended Monday after testing positive for banned steriods almost a year ago, according to the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency.
Merritt tested positive for DHEA last year, was placed on a provisional suspension and was "disqualified from all competitive results achieved at and subsequent to October 28, 2009, including forfeiture of any medals, points, and prizes", said the statement from the USADA.
Trio sent off as Hercules hold Villarreal; Ten-man Blackburn earn draw
Villarreal were denied the chance to return to the top of
Spain's La Liga after an incident-packed 2-2 draw at promoted Hercules on Monday
night in which three players were sent off.
Hercules led 2-1 with goals from new signings Nelson Valdez and David Trezeguet, but the latter was sent off just before halftime and Villarreal leveled through Borja Valero -- who later left the field for a second yellow card before defender Mateo Musacchio received a straight red.
Hercules led 2-1 with goals from new signings Nelson Valdez and David Trezeguet, but the latter was sent off just before halftime and Villarreal leveled through Borja Valero -- who later left the field for a second yellow card before defender Mateo Musacchio received a straight red.
Ivanovic jumps up tennis rankings after first title in two years
Former world number one Ana Ivanovic has climbed to a year
high of 26th in the rankings after breaking her WTA Tour title drought.
The Serb ended a run of two years without a winner's trophy on Sunday, defeating Patty Schnyder in straight sets in the final of the Generali Ladies Linz tournament in Austria.
Ivanovic -- who was a last-minute replacement in the draw for the injured Serena Williams -- took just 47 minutes to dispose of her Swiss opponent 6-1 6-2.
It was her second success at the hard-court event, with her win there in 2008 her last on the women's singles circuit.
The Serb ended a run of two years without a winner's trophy on Sunday, defeating Patty Schnyder in straight sets in the final of the Generali Ladies Linz tournament in Austria.
Ivanovic -- who was a last-minute replacement in the draw for the injured Serena Williams -- took just 47 minutes to dispose of her Swiss opponent 6-1 6-2.
It was her second success at the hard-court event, with her win there in 2008 her last on the women's singles circuit.
F1 stars ready for new Korean challenge
This weekend's inaugural Korean Grand Prix is a step into the
unknown for Formula One, but Red Bull's title hopefuls Mark Webber and Sebastian
Vettel are looking forward to the challenge as the 2010 season heads into its
final three races.
Vettel led the Austrian team to a 1-2 in Japan two weeks ago, leaving him tied for second overall with Ferrari's Fernando Alonso 14 points behind Webber.
The Yeongam circuit in South Korea was finally cleared by F1 officials last week, despite rules stating a new venue should be completed 90 days before a race is due to take place, and the drivers are keen to see a track that most have experienced only in simulators and video footage.
Vettel led the Austrian team to a 1-2 in Japan two weeks ago, leaving him tied for second overall with Ferrari's Fernando Alonso 14 points behind Webber.
The Yeongam circuit in South Korea was finally cleared by F1 officials last week, despite rules stating a new venue should be completed 90 days before a race is due to take place, and the drivers are keen to see a track that most have experienced only in simulators and video footage.
Favre to meet with NFL official over conduct investigation
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre will meet this week
with an NFL official as part of the league's investigation into allegations that
he sent sexually explicit messages to women, an NFL spokesman said Monday.
"It's no secret," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said. "Any time you review a matter like this, you're going to talk to the person involved. What we've said is, 'Yes, we will be interviewing him as part of the process.' "
"It's no secret," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said. "Any time you review a matter like this, you're going to talk to the person involved. What we've said is, 'Yes, we will be interviewing him as part of the process.' "
Monday, October 18, 2010
No January signings, say Real, as Rooney rumors build momentum
One of Real Madrid's top officials has distanced the Spanish club from reports that it will launch a big-money January raid on Manchester United's prize asset Wayne Rooney.
British media have been widely speculating that the England striker will not sign an extension to his United contract, which expires in 2012, following an apparent rift with his club manager Alex Ferguson.
Ferguson has not selected Rooney in his starting line-up since newspaper reports emerged last month with claims about alleged marital infidelities, at first saying he was protecting the player and then that he had an ankle injury.
British media have been widely speculating that the England striker will not sign an extension to his United contract, which expires in 2012, following an apparent rift with his club manager Alex Ferguson.
Ferguson has not selected Rooney in his starting line-up since newspaper reports emerged last month with claims about alleged marital infidelities, at first saying he was protecting the player and then that he had an ankle injury.
FIFA investigate newspaper bribe claims
World football's governing body FIFA is investigating a British newspaper report that two of its officials solicited a bribe in exchange for supporting particular countries' bids to host the World Cup tournament.
In a statement, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said: "FIFA will immediately analyse the material available and only once this analysis has concluded will FIFA be able to decide on any potential next steps."
In a statement, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said: "FIFA will immediately analyse the material available and only once this analysis has concluded will FIFA be able to decide on any potential next steps."
Ivanovic jumps up tennis rankings after first title in two years
Former world number one Ana Ivanovic has climbed to a year high of 26th in the rankings after breaking her WTA Tour title drought.
The Serb ended a run of two years without a winner's trophy on Sunday, defeating Patty Schnyder in straight sets in the final of the Generali Ladies Linz tournament in Austria.
Favre to meet with NFL official over conduct investigation
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre will meet this week with an NFL official as part of the league's investigation into allegations that he sent sexually explicit messages to women, an NFL spokesman said Monday.
"It's no secret," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said. "Any time you review a matter like this, you're going to talk to the person involved. What we've said is, 'Yes, we will be interviewing him as part of the process.' "
"It's no secret," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said. "Any time you review a matter like this, you're going to talk to the person involved. What we've said is, 'Yes, we will be interviewing him as part of the process.' "
Klitschko calls on Haye to accept offer
Heavyweight boxing champion Vitali Klitschko has again
challenged David Haye to front up for a showdown next year, following the
Ukrainian's fifth defense of his WBC title at the weekend.
The 39-year-old, whose unanimous decision victory over Shannon Briggs in Germany put the battered American in hospital, told his fans that he wants to fight on for another year.
"I would like to knock out Haye so that we can claim the only belt missing from the family's collection," said Klitschko, whose younger brother Wladimir holds the IBF, WBO and IBO crowns ahead of his next bout against British champion Dereck Chisora on December 11.
"There is no-one in the world apart from my brother who can beat me, I am the strongest. I still have plenty of energy, and in a few months, I will be ready to get back in the ring."
The 39-year-old, whose unanimous decision victory over Shannon Briggs in Germany put the battered American in hospital, told his fans that he wants to fight on for another year.
"I would like to knock out Haye so that we can claim the only belt missing from the family's collection," said Klitschko, whose younger brother Wladimir holds the IBF, WBO and IBO crowns ahead of his next bout against British champion Dereck Chisora on December 11.
"There is no-one in the world apart from my brother who can beat me, I am the strongest. I still have plenty of energy, and in a few months, I will be ready to get back in the ring."
Everton beat rivals in Merseyside derby
Liverpool's dramatic week ended in disappointment as Everton
claimed a 2-0 victory in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Sunday to
leave their rivals second from bottom of the Premier League table.
Roy Hodgson's Liverpool side came into the match on the back of a tumultuous last seven days which saw the club finally sold to the owners of the Boston Red Sox baseball team.
And all the disruption off the pitch continues to transmit into poor results on the pitch, as goals either side of half-time from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta gave Everton a deserved win.
Both teams came into the match struggling near the foot of the table, with Everton 17th and Liverpool 18th in the 20-team division.
Roy Hodgson's Liverpool side came into the match on the back of a tumultuous last seven days which saw the club finally sold to the owners of the Boston Red Sox baseball team.
And all the disruption off the pitch continues to transmit into poor results on the pitch, as goals either side of half-time from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta gave Everton a deserved win.
Both teams came into the match struggling near the foot of the table, with Everton 17th and Liverpool 18th in the 20-team division.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Lazio defeat Bari to top Serie A table
Lazio are back on top of the Italian Serie A table after
goals from Hernanes and Sergio Floccari gave them a 2-0 win at Bari on
Sunday.
Brazilian Hernanes put the visitors ahead seven minutes after the interval after he slotted Stefano Mauri's pass through goalkeeper Jean-Francois Gillet's legs.
And they doubled their advantage soon after when Mauri's mis-hit shot struck the knee of Floccari to loop into the net.
Jose Ignacio Castillo headed against the post for the home side with 10 minutes remaining but the Roman side held on to lead the way by two points.
AC Milan, who beat Chievo 3-1 on Saturday, remain second, just ahead of city rivals Inter on goal difference.
Brazilian Hernanes put the visitors ahead seven minutes after the interval after he slotted Stefano Mauri's pass through goalkeeper Jean-Francois Gillet's legs.
And they doubled their advantage soon after when Mauri's mis-hit shot struck the knee of Floccari to loop into the net.
Jose Ignacio Castillo headed against the post for the home side with 10 minutes remaining but the Roman side held on to lead the way by two points.
AC Milan, who beat Chievo 3-1 on Saturday, remain second, just ahead of city rivals Inter on goal difference.
FIFA investigate newspaper bribe claims
World football's governing body FIFA is investigating a
British newspaper report that two of its officials solicited a bribe in exchange
for supporting particular countries' bids to host the World Cup tournament.
In a statement, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said: "FIFA will immediately analyse the material available and only once this analysis has concluded will FIFA be able to decide on any potential next steps.
Blatter was writing to members of the body's executive committee after the Sunday Times published an article under the headline "World Cup votes for sale."
"FIFA and the FIFA Ethics Committee have closely monitored the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups and will continue to do so," Blatter continued in the open letter.
In a statement, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said: "FIFA will immediately analyse the material available and only once this analysis has concluded will FIFA be able to decide on any potential next steps.
Blatter was writing to members of the body's executive committee after the Sunday Times published an article under the headline "World Cup votes for sale."
"FIFA and the FIFA Ethics Committee have closely monitored the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups and will continue to do so," Blatter continued in the open letter.
Murray crushes Federer in Shanghai final
Andy Murray crushed Roger Federer in straight sets in a
one-sided final to claim victory in the Shanghai Masters on Sunday.
The Briton, who also defeated the former world number one in the Toronto Masters final in August, took just under 90 minutes to secure a 6-3 6-2 victory.
World number four Murray has now beaten Federer eight times in their 13 meetings, although has crucially lost both times they have met in the final of a grand slam (U.S. Open in 2008 and this year's Australian Open final).
And there was never any doubt that Murray would continue his fine record against Federer, with the Swiss making a remarkable 30 unforced errors while failing to convert six break points.
The Briton, who also defeated the former world number one in the Toronto Masters final in August, took just under 90 minutes to secure a 6-3 6-2 victory.
World number four Murray has now beaten Federer eight times in their 13 meetings, although has crucially lost both times they have met in the final of a grand slam (U.S. Open in 2008 and this year's Australian Open final).
And there was never any doubt that Murray would continue his fine record against Federer, with the Swiss making a remarkable 30 unforced errors while failing to convert six break points.
Stoner continues Australian dominance
Australian Casey Stoner continued his domination of his home MotoGP, coming home alone to win at Phillip Island for a fourth successive season.
The 25-year-old Ducati rider, who is now just one victory away from matching Valentino Rossi's five wins on the circuit from 2001 to 2005, finished over eight seconds clear of new world champion Jorge Lorenzo -- his third triumph in the last four races.
Seven-time world champion Rossi fought off Stoner's American teammate Nicky Hayden to take third place.
However, the Italian is no longer third in the overall standings, with Stoner taking that position behind Lorenzo and Dani Pedrosa with just two races remaining this season.
Harrington ends long wait for trophy
Irishman Padraig Harrington ended his two-year title drought
after completing a comfortable victory in the Johor Open in Malaysia on
Sunday.
Harrington carded a final round 69 to finish on 20-under-par after 72 holes, three shots clear of Asian Tour Order of Merit leader Noh Seung-Yul, who birdied his final three holes for a 65.
Taiwan's Lin Wen-tang posted a 68 to finish a further stroke adrift in third place.
The success ended a frustrating spell for three-time major winner Harrington, who had not won any tournament since his 2008 U.S. PGA triumph.
"It's always nice to win, even nicer when there has been a bit of a drought. Winning is a habit so it's nice to come out here and win and do it in style," Harrington told reporters.
Harrington carded a final round 69 to finish on 20-under-par after 72 holes, three shots clear of Asian Tour Order of Merit leader Noh Seung-Yul, who birdied his final three holes for a 65.
Taiwan's Lin Wen-tang posted a 68 to finish a further stroke adrift in third place.
The success ended a frustrating spell for three-time major winner Harrington, who had not won any tournament since his 2008 U.S. PGA triumph.
"It's always nice to win, even nicer when there has been a bit of a drought. Winning is a habit so it's nice to come out here and win and do it in style," Harrington told reporters.
Hoffenheim up to fourth in Bundesliga
Hoffenheim are up to fourth place in the German Bundesliga
table, seven points behind joint leaders Borussia Dortmund and Mainz, after
defeating nine-man Borussia Moenchengladbach 3-2 on Sunday.
Raul Bobadilla gave Gladbach the lead but Demba Ba levelled immediately before the visitors had Juan Arango sent off just after the hour mark.
Anderson headed into his own net to put Hoffenheim ahead and Gladbach then had Sebastian Schachtern dismissed for fouling Ba in the penalty area.
Sejad Salihovic scored the resulting spot-kick for the home side before Mohamadou Idrissou added a late consolation goal.
In Sunday's other match, Greek striker Theofanis Gekas scored twice to give Eintracht Frankfurt a 3-0 win at Kaiserslautern -- their third successive victory.
Raul Bobadilla gave Gladbach the lead but Demba Ba levelled immediately before the visitors had Juan Arango sent off just after the hour mark.
Anderson headed into his own net to put Hoffenheim ahead and Gladbach then had Sebastian Schachtern dismissed for fouling Ba in the penalty area.
Sejad Salihovic scored the resulting spot-kick for the home side before Mohamadou Idrissou added a late consolation goal.
In Sunday's other match, Greek striker Theofanis Gekas scored twice to give Eintracht Frankfurt a 3-0 win at Kaiserslautern -- their third successive victory.
Date Krumm fails in bid to make history
Japan's Kimiko Date Krumm has failed in her bid to become the
oldest-ever winner of a WTA Tour event, losing in the final of the Japan Open to
Thailand's Tamarine Tanasugarn.
Date Krumm, who at 40 would have beaten the record set by Billie Jean King who won a tournament in Birmingham, England, aged 39 years, seven months and 23 days, was defeated 7-5 6-7 6-1 in a marathon match lasting over three hours.
The Osaka victory gave 33-year-old Tanasugarn her fourth career title, following her victories in 2008 and 2009 at 's-Hertogenbosch in the Netherlands and in 2003 in Hyderabad, India.
Date Krumm, who had beaten top seed Samantha Stosur and third seed Shahar Peer en route to the final, told the official WTA Tour website: "I just tried my best and fought as hard as I could.
"Nobody wants to lose, so I tried everything. Now I will play some ITF events followed by the Asian Games -- so I will be continuing to play tennis for the rest of the year."
Date Krumm, who at 40 would have beaten the record set by Billie Jean King who won a tournament in Birmingham, England, aged 39 years, seven months and 23 days, was defeated 7-5 6-7 6-1 in a marathon match lasting over three hours.
The Osaka victory gave 33-year-old Tanasugarn her fourth career title, following her victories in 2008 and 2009 at 's-Hertogenbosch in the Netherlands and in 2003 in Hyderabad, India.
Date Krumm, who had beaten top seed Samantha Stosur and third seed Shahar Peer en route to the final, told the official WTA Tour website: "I just tried my best and fought as hard as I could.
"Nobody wants to lose, so I tried everything. Now I will play some ITF events followed by the Asian Games -- so I will be continuing to play tennis for the rest of the year."
Barcelona beat Valencia; AC Milan go top of Serie A
Barcelona produced a masterful second-half display to
come from behind and defeat Valencia 2-1 at the Nou Camp on Saturday.
The home side went behind after 37 minutes when Pablo Hernandez scored for the visitors.
But second half goals from Andres Iniesta and Carles Puyol ensured that Barca secured all three points -- something they have struggled to do at home so far this season, dropping five points in their first three home games.
David Villa, who was facing his old club for the first time since his €40 million ($55 million) summer transfer, had several chances to score but was denied by some excellent saves from Valencia's keeper Cesar Sanchez.
The win puts Barcelona level on 16 points with Valencia at the top of La Liga.
The home side went behind after 37 minutes when Pablo Hernandez scored for the visitors.
But second half goals from Andres Iniesta and Carles Puyol ensured that Barca secured all three points -- something they have struggled to do at home so far this season, dropping five points in their first three home games.
David Villa, who was facing his old club for the first time since his €40 million ($55 million) summer transfer, had several chances to score but was denied by some excellent saves from Valencia's keeper Cesar Sanchez.
The win puts Barcelona level on 16 points with Valencia at the top of La Liga.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Serie A - Roma finally win
Goals from Marco Borriello and Matteo Brighi gave Roma only their second Serie A win of the season, beating Genoa 2-1 at the Stadio Olimpico.
The on-loan Milan striker toe-poked a poacher’s finish on 34 minutes with midfielder Brighi improvising a clever chip seven minutes into the second half, assisted by a delightful backheel from Borriello.
Hungarian substitute pulled Gergely Rudolf one back late on, but Roma closed the game out to pull themselves out of the relegation zone.
The match was even enough in terms of possession, but Roma fashioned by far the better chances as Genoa were snuffed out at source by the excellent Juan and Nicolas Burdisso.
The on-loan Milan striker toe-poked a poacher’s finish on 34 minutes with midfielder Brighi improvising a clever chip seven minutes into the second half, assisted by a delightful backheel from Borriello.
Hungarian substitute pulled Gergely Rudolf one back late on, but Roma closed the game out to pull themselves out of the relegation zone.
The match was even enough in terms of possession, but Roma fashioned by far the better chances as Genoa were snuffed out at source by the excellent Juan and Nicolas Burdisso.
Van Der Sar gifts West Brom a point
Manchester United were held to a 2-2 draw at Old Trafford by West Bromwich Albion in the English Premier League on Saturday. A mistake by goalkeeper Edwin Van Der Sar gifted the visitors an equalizer 10 minutes into the second half after Hernandez and Nani had given the Alex Ferguson's men a two goal lead before the break.
Van Der Sar's fumble from a Chris Brunt cross fell to the feet of Somen Tchoyi who pounced on the error to score after 55 minutes.
Tchoyi's effort came five minutes after Patrice Evra deflected a Brunt free-kick into his own net.
Ferguson left his star striker Wayne Rooney on the bench until the 71st minute but he couldn't force a winner as Man United poured forward in the closing stages.
Van Der Sar's fumble from a Chris Brunt cross fell to the feet of Somen Tchoyi who pounced on the error to score after 55 minutes.
Tchoyi's effort came five minutes after Patrice Evra deflected a Brunt free-kick into his own net.
Ferguson left his star striker Wayne Rooney on the bench until the 71st minute but he couldn't force a winner as Man United poured forward in the closing stages.
Hamburg end Mainz's record run; Gomez fires hat-trick for Bayern
Mainz failed in their bid to make Bundesliga history on Saturday as they lost 1-0 at home to Hamburg.
The minnows were bidding for their eighth consecutive win of the season, which would have seen them overtake the record of seven straight wins held by themselves, Bayern Munich -- who achieved the feat in the 1995-96 season -- and Kaiserslautern (2001-02 season).
But it was not to be as Hamburg's Paolo Guerrero crushed any lingering hopes with a 89th minute winner. Hamburg also had a goal disallowed earlier in the match.
"We played a little wild and lost some easy balls in attack, giving them some chances on the counter attack. But the break showed that we were missing a little bit of our collective game," Mainz coach Thomas Tuchel said, AFP reported.
The minnows were bidding for their eighth consecutive win of the season, which would have seen them overtake the record of seven straight wins held by themselves, Bayern Munich -- who achieved the feat in the 1995-96 season -- and Kaiserslautern (2001-02 season).
But it was not to be as Hamburg's Paolo Guerrero crushed any lingering hopes with a 89th minute winner. Hamburg also had a goal disallowed earlier in the match.
"We played a little wild and lost some easy balls in attack, giving them some chances on the counter attack. But the break showed that we were missing a little bit of our collective game," Mainz coach Thomas Tuchel said, AFP reported.
Martin leads in Portugal; Harrington eyes first victory since U.S. PGA
Spain's Pablo Martin will take a three shot lead going into the final round of the Portugal Masters at Vilamoura after posting a stunning third round 63.
Martin's round included two eagles -- at the third and fifth holes -- and five birdies. But it wasn't the best round of the day.
That honor went to Denmark's Jeppe Huldahl who shot an incredible 11-under par 61 leaving him tied for second place with England's Owen Wilson who finished the day with a round of 65.
The Dane's round included a run of seven straight birdies -- which equals the European Tour record -- and 12 in total.
Afterwards, the 28-year-old admitted that he had thought about trying to become the first player to score a 59 on the European Tour.
Martin's round included two eagles -- at the third and fifth holes -- and five birdies. But it wasn't the best round of the day.
That honor went to Denmark's Jeppe Huldahl who shot an incredible 11-under par 61 leaving him tied for second place with England's Owen Wilson who finished the day with a round of 65.
The Dane's round included a run of seven straight birdies -- which equals the European Tour record -- and 12 in total.
Afterwards, the 28-year-old admitted that he had thought about trying to become the first player to score a 59 on the European Tour.
U.S. company seals takeover of Liverpool Football Club
One of England's most famous soccer clubs has been sold to the American owners of baseball's Boston Red Sox following a protracted Trans-Atlantic legal battle.
John W. Henry, the head of New England Sports Ventures (NESV), confirmed in London Friday that the company's $480 million deal to buy Liverpool Football Club had finally been completed.
Liverpool's previous owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett, who are also American, earlier withdrew their temporary restraining order blocking the sale, having twice gone to a court in Texas to prevent the transaction.
"I can't tell you how happy I am that we finally got to this stage," Henry told a throng of reporters.
"We're going to do a lot of listening. We have a lot to learn, but our actions will hopefully speak louder than words."
John W. Henry, the head of New England Sports Ventures (NESV), confirmed in London Friday that the company's $480 million deal to buy Liverpool Football Club had finally been completed.
Liverpool's previous owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett, who are also American, earlier withdrew their temporary restraining order blocking the sale, having twice gone to a court in Texas to prevent the transaction.
"I can't tell you how happy I am that we finally got to this stage," Henry told a throng of reporters.
"We're going to do a lot of listening. We have a lot to learn, but our actions will hopefully speak louder than words."
Murray to face Federer in Masters final
Scotland's Andy Murray will face Roger Federer in the final of the Shanghai Masters on Sunday after both men eased past their semi-final opponents in straight sets on Saturday.
World number four Murray powered past Argentina's Juan Monaco 6-4 6-1 in 85 minutes at the Qi Zhong center to reach his second straight final at a Masters 1000 event.
Murray broke Monaco's serve early in the first set to open up a two game lead, but the South American refused to lie down, and when Murray double faulted to squander his service game in the ninth game it looked as though the Scot might drop his first set of the tournament.
But the 23-year-old didn't panic and broke back instantly to secure the opening set 6-4.
It was one-way traffic from there on in as Murray broke the South American's serve twice to comfortably secure his passage to the final.
World number four Murray powered past Argentina's Juan Monaco 6-4 6-1 in 85 minutes at the Qi Zhong center to reach his second straight final at a Masters 1000 event.
Murray broke Monaco's serve early in the first set to open up a two game lead, but the South American refused to lie down, and when Murray double faulted to squander his service game in the ninth game it looked as though the Scot might drop his first set of the tournament.
But the 23-year-old didn't panic and broke back instantly to secure the opening set 6-4.
It was one-way traffic from there on in as Murray broke the South American's serve twice to comfortably secure his passage to the final.
Stoner on pole for Australian GP
Casey Stoner will start from pole position at Sunday's Australian MotoGP.
The Ducati rider clocked the fastest lap of one minute 30.107 seconds in cool and windy weather conditions during qualifying at the Phillip Island circuit.
The Australian, who celebrated his 25th birthday on Saturday, edged out new world champion Jorge Lorenzo, who had been leading with only 15 minutes of qualifying remaining.
The result gives Stoner the opportunity to capture his fourth consecutive win at his home GP.
"It was pushing a lot more wind at the end of the session so we were lucky to even drop the lap times," Stoner said, BBC Sport reported.
The Ducati rider clocked the fastest lap of one minute 30.107 seconds in cool and windy weather conditions during qualifying at the Phillip Island circuit.
The Australian, who celebrated his 25th birthday on Saturday, edged out new world champion Jorge Lorenzo, who had been leading with only 15 minutes of qualifying remaining.
The result gives Stoner the opportunity to capture his fourth consecutive win at his home GP.
"It was pushing a lot more wind at the end of the session so we were lucky to even drop the lap times," Stoner said, BBC Sport reported.
Late Sahin strike puts Dortmund on top
Borussia Dortmund moved to the top of the German Bundesliga table for the first time in seven years after snatching a last-gasp 2-1 victory away to struggling Cologne on Friday night.
Turkey midfielder Nuri Sahin netted a 90th-minute winner to give the visitors the lead on goal difference from Mainz, who host Hamburg on Saturday seeking a record eighth consecutive win of the new season.
Dortmund started strongly despite the heavy rain in front of a capacity 50,000 crowd at the Rhein Energie Stadion.
Paraguay striker Lucas Barrios headed over the crossbar from Jakub Blazczykowski's cross when he should have scored, but Cologne went closer when Lukas Podolski smashed a right-foot volley against crossbar.
Turkey midfielder Nuri Sahin netted a 90th-minute winner to give the visitors the lead on goal difference from Mainz, who host Hamburg on Saturday seeking a record eighth consecutive win of the new season.
Dortmund started strongly despite the heavy rain in front of a capacity 50,000 crowd at the Rhein Energie Stadion.
Paraguay striker Lucas Barrios headed over the crossbar from Jakub Blazczykowski's cross when he should have scored, but Cologne went closer when Lukas Podolski smashed a right-foot volley against crossbar.
Del Potro returns to challenge status quo
The recent return to action of 2009 U.S. Open champion Juan Martin del Potro sees the ATP Tour welcome back a genuine challenger to the Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer dynasty.
Del Potro's victory over Federer in last year's Flushing Meadows final not only provided the giant Argentine with his first grand slam title success, it also gave an indication the then 20-year-old was on the verge of usurping Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray as the main pretender to the Nadal and Federer throne.
However, 2010 has been a disaster for Del Potro, with a wrist problem ruling him out for much of the season -- an injury that was deemed so serious that at one stage there were genuine fears for his long-term future in the sport.
Del Potro's victory over Federer in last year's Flushing Meadows final not only provided the giant Argentine with his first grand slam title success, it also gave an indication the then 20-year-old was on the verge of usurping Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray as the main pretender to the Nadal and Federer throne.
However, 2010 has been a disaster for Del Potro, with a wrist problem ruling him out for much of the season -- an injury that was deemed so serious that at one stage there were genuine fears for his long-term future in the sport.
U.S. pulls out of 2018 World Cup bid
CNN) -- The United States is no longer in the running to host soccer's 2018 World Cup after its bid committee decided to withdraw from contention and focus on hosting the 2022 tournament instead.
The USA Bid Committee announced on Friday it had made the decision after "several months of careful deliberation" following meetings with the sport's world ruling body FIFA and Europe's controlling organization UEFA.
The withdrawal leaves just four candidates for the 2018 tournament -- all of them from Europe.
England and Russia face competition from dual bids comprised of Spain/Portugal and Belgium/Netherlands.
The U.S. will be up against Australia, Japan, South Korea and Qatar as it seeks to host soccer's showpiece event for the second time, having staged it in 1994.
The USA Bid Committee announced on Friday it had made the decision after "several months of careful deliberation" following meetings with the sport's world ruling body FIFA and Europe's controlling organization UEFA.
The withdrawal leaves just four candidates for the 2018 tournament -- all of them from Europe.
England and Russia face competition from dual bids comprised of Spain/Portugal and Belgium/Netherlands.
The U.S. will be up against Australia, Japan, South Korea and Qatar as it seeks to host soccer's showpiece event for the second time, having staged it in 1994.
Djokovic faces Federer in Shanghai semis
(CNN) -- Novak Djokovic continued his imperious recent form Friday with a 6-2 6-3 victory over Guillermo Garcia-Lopez to reach the Shanghai Masters semifinals, where he will play Roger Federer.
Second seed Djokovic completed his win in 77 minutes, claiming a fourth career success over the Spaniard and boosting his hopes of lifting a second successive trophy following his China Open triumph on Monday.
The Serb will now face world No. 3 Federer in a repeat of September's U.S. Open semifinal, which Djokovic won after the Swiss had failed to convert two match points.
Second seed Djokovic completed his win in 77 minutes, claiming a fourth career success over the Spaniard and boosting his hopes of lifting a second successive trophy following his China Open triumph on Monday.
The Serb will now face world No. 3 Federer in a repeat of September's U.S. Open semifinal, which Djokovic won after the Swiss had failed to convert two match points.
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