It was a day of shocks in the Premier League as only two of the top 10 managed a victory, leaving Chelsea three points clear at the summit.
The Blues stumbled to a 3-3 draw at home to Everton, relying on two-goal Didier Drogba but falling foul of sloppy defending. Their blushes were spared, though, by Manchester United's surprise 1-0 defeat at home to Aston Villa, with Gabriel Agbonlahor bagging the decisive goal.
Tottenham were another club on the receiving end as lowly Wolves defied the form book and won 1-0 at White Hart Lane.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Soccer: Benitez facing huge test
Rafael Benitez needs a win on Sunday like never before - but Arsene Wenger's Gunners stand in his way.
Liverpool are fading fast and Benitez's job - and the club's hopes for a Champions League spot - are hanging in the balance. So the visit of free-scoring Arsenal is the last thing they need.
With Robin van Persie out injured, the Gunners have taken a few steps backwards but they remain a hugely talented group and Benitez needs a big performance from captain Steven Gerrard to buy him a bit of breathing space.
Unfortunately for the Reds boss, the smart money is on Arsenal to take all three points at Anfield.
Liverpool are fading fast and Benitez's job - and the club's hopes for a Champions League spot - are hanging in the balance. So the visit of free-scoring Arsenal is the last thing they need.
With Robin van Persie out injured, the Gunners have taken a few steps backwards but they remain a hugely talented group and Benitez needs a big performance from captain Steven Gerrard to buy him a bit of breathing space.
Unfortunately for the Reds boss, the smart money is on Arsenal to take all three points at Anfield.
NBA: The MVP battle
The latest standings:
1) Kobe Bryant: The Lakers have won 10 straight and Kobe is putting up almost 29 a game. And he is never beaten - just look at that fadeaway 3-pointer that sunk the Heat in the final seconds. He has his team head and shoulders above the rest of the West and you get the feeling that he has a little more still up his sleeve.
2) Carmelo Anthony: His 20+ points in every game streak came to an end in Philadelphia but he has another strong week. The up and down Nuggets have dropped their last two but Melo's 40 in Detroit shows there is nothing wrong with his game. He continues to destroy teams in one-on-one situations but will need more from his colleagues if Denver are to close in on the Lakers.
3) LeBron James: Losses to Memphis and Houston have raised eyebrows but LeBron keeps bringing it. With 28 points a night and eight assists, he is doing more than his share. The Cavs seem a step or two behind the Celtics and Magic yet there is little more the King could be doing to remedy that.
4) Dirk Nowitzki: Dirk is on his way to a career year. The Mavs earned a big win over the Suns this week and the German is firing in 27 a game with his wide range of jumpers. He is also making an impact with his blocks and rebounds as Dallas push for the number two spot in the West.
5) Dwight Howard: There is a still a feeling that there is a lot more to come but what Orlando are currently getting is pretty special. With double-double in his last nine games, Superman has been a major factor in the Magic's good run but was well-subdued by the Jazz this week.
6) Dwyane Wade: His field goal percentage is down but Wade is still scoring 27 a night with six dimes and almost two steals. The Heat fought hard out West and came close to sinking the Lakers to go with a big win in Portland. Wade is leading by example but needs a little more from the supporting cast.
7) Kevin Durant: You cannot grumble about 27 points, seven boards and three assists a night. The Thunder are 11-9 and can taste the playoffs but so much depends on Durant's play. With Greg Oden going down with another injury, the Thunder small forward is looking an even bigger steal with the number two pick up that year.
8) Kevin Garnett: The fact that the highest Celtic comes in at number eight after a nine-game winning run shows the team ethic in Boston. The Celtics are top of the East for numerous reasons but Garnett's intense defense and deadly jumper are two of the biggest.
9) Steve Nash: The Suns are sinking fast and Nash's stock has fallen somewhat as a result. As his team-mates struggle, he has stepped up his scoring - putting up 32 against the Kings - but Phoenix have taken some tough losses with Nash's assists tally dipping.
10) Brandon Roy: Roy has raised his game another notch since Greg Oden's injury, threatening the 30-point mark in a couple of games. He is averaging 21 points a night and his leadership will be vital as the 14-9 Blazers look to put a run together and close in on the Jazz and Nuggets in the Northwest.
1) Kobe Bryant: The Lakers have won 10 straight and Kobe is putting up almost 29 a game. And he is never beaten - just look at that fadeaway 3-pointer that sunk the Heat in the final seconds. He has his team head and shoulders above the rest of the West and you get the feeling that he has a little more still up his sleeve.
2) Carmelo Anthony: His 20+ points in every game streak came to an end in Philadelphia but he has another strong week. The up and down Nuggets have dropped their last two but Melo's 40 in Detroit shows there is nothing wrong with his game. He continues to destroy teams in one-on-one situations but will need more from his colleagues if Denver are to close in on the Lakers.
3) LeBron James: Losses to Memphis and Houston have raised eyebrows but LeBron keeps bringing it. With 28 points a night and eight assists, he is doing more than his share. The Cavs seem a step or two behind the Celtics and Magic yet there is little more the King could be doing to remedy that.
4) Dirk Nowitzki: Dirk is on his way to a career year. The Mavs earned a big win over the Suns this week and the German is firing in 27 a game with his wide range of jumpers. He is also making an impact with his blocks and rebounds as Dallas push for the number two spot in the West.
5) Dwight Howard: There is a still a feeling that there is a lot more to come but what Orlando are currently getting is pretty special. With double-double in his last nine games, Superman has been a major factor in the Magic's good run but was well-subdued by the Jazz this week.
6) Dwyane Wade: His field goal percentage is down but Wade is still scoring 27 a night with six dimes and almost two steals. The Heat fought hard out West and came close to sinking the Lakers to go with a big win in Portland. Wade is leading by example but needs a little more from the supporting cast.
7) Kevin Durant: You cannot grumble about 27 points, seven boards and three assists a night. The Thunder are 11-9 and can taste the playoffs but so much depends on Durant's play. With Greg Oden going down with another injury, the Thunder small forward is looking an even bigger steal with the number two pick up that year.
8) Kevin Garnett: The fact that the highest Celtic comes in at number eight after a nine-game winning run shows the team ethic in Boston. The Celtics are top of the East for numerous reasons but Garnett's intense defense and deadly jumper are two of the biggest.
9) Steve Nash: The Suns are sinking fast and Nash's stock has fallen somewhat as a result. As his team-mates struggle, he has stepped up his scoring - putting up 32 against the Kings - but Phoenix have taken some tough losses with Nash's assists tally dipping.
10) Brandon Roy: Roy has raised his game another notch since Greg Oden's injury, threatening the 30-point mark in a couple of games. He is averaging 21 points a night and his leadership will be vital as the 14-9 Blazers look to put a run together and close in on the Jazz and Nuggets in the Northwest.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Cricket: Swann on fire ahead of Test series
Graeme Swann took centre stage as England dominated their rain-affected match against a South Africa Invitational XI.
Having scored a quickfire 39 in the tourists' 329-8, Swann led the England charge with the ball, taking 6-55 as the hosts limped to 167-7.
The game ended as a draw but the signs are promising for England ahead of the Test series. With the ODI series already in the bag, success in the longer format would cap an outstanding trip.
Having scored a quickfire 39 in the tourists' 329-8, Swann led the England charge with the ball, taking 6-55 as the hosts limped to 167-7.
The game ended as a draw but the signs are promising for England ahead of the Test series. With the ODI series already in the bag, success in the longer format would cap an outstanding trip.
NBA: Bulls, Del Negro struggling
The Chicago Bulls are on a wretched run and head coach Vinny Del Negro is feeling the heat.
Despite boasting talents like Derrick Rose and Luol Deng, the Bulls have lost four straight and nine of their last 10. Their 7-13 record leaves them outside the playoff spots and trailing Cleveland, Milwaukee and Detroit in the Central Division.
A victory over Golden State on Friday is vital ahead of brutal games against the Celtics and Lakers. If the Bulls lose their next three, Del Negro may be on borrowed time.
Despite boasting talents like Derrick Rose and Luol Deng, the Bulls have lost four straight and nine of their last 10. Their 7-13 record leaves them outside the playoff spots and trailing Cleveland, Milwaukee and Detroit in the Central Division.
A victory over Golden State on Friday is vital ahead of brutal games against the Celtics and Lakers. If the Bulls lose their next three, Del Negro may be on borrowed time.
NFL: Weekend preview
Week 14 is serving up some vital games as we head towards the playoffs:
Cincinnati @ Minnesota: After losing in Arizona, the Vikings will be out to make amends but the Bengals are having a phenomenal season themselves. This clash of the season's two biggest surprises will be decided by how effective Adrian Peterson can be after a disappointing outing last weekend. Look for Brett Favre's Vikings to get back on track in this one.
San Diego @ Dallas: Things are getting tight in the NFC East after the Cowboys' loss in New York last weekend which brought more questions about their defense against the pass. The Chargers, meanwhile, are marching towards the playoffs and head to Texas on the back of seven straight wins. Philip Rivers is on a tear this year and San Diego should move to 10-3 this weekend.
Philadelphia @ New York: With things hotting up in the NFC East, this game will have huge implications on the playoff race. The Giants are clinging on for dear life but impressed in their victory over the Cowboys last weekend. That might not be enough to sink the high-flying Eagles, though. The Philadelphia defense is a major strength and they put up 34 points in Atlanta in their last game. On Sunday, watch for QB Donovan McNabb to take charge and lead the road team to victory.
Arizona @ San Francisco: Cardinals QB Kurt Warner looks to keep his fine run going on Monday as Arizona chase a 9-4 record. The 49ers, their NFC West rivals, bring a 5-7 record into the clash and their limited pass defense will struggle to contain Warner and his talented receivers. The Cardinals look a safe bet to take this one.
Cincinnati @ Minnesota: After losing in Arizona, the Vikings will be out to make amends but the Bengals are having a phenomenal season themselves. This clash of the season's two biggest surprises will be decided by how effective Adrian Peterson can be after a disappointing outing last weekend. Look for Brett Favre's Vikings to get back on track in this one.
San Diego @ Dallas: Things are getting tight in the NFC East after the Cowboys' loss in New York last weekend which brought more questions about their defense against the pass. The Chargers, meanwhile, are marching towards the playoffs and head to Texas on the back of seven straight wins. Philip Rivers is on a tear this year and San Diego should move to 10-3 this weekend.
Philadelphia @ New York: With things hotting up in the NFC East, this game will have huge implications on the playoff race. The Giants are clinging on for dear life but impressed in their victory over the Cowboys last weekend. That might not be enough to sink the high-flying Eagles, though. The Philadelphia defense is a major strength and they put up 34 points in Atlanta in their last game. On Sunday, watch for QB Donovan McNabb to take charge and lead the road team to victory.
Arizona @ San Francisco: Cardinals QB Kurt Warner looks to keep his fine run going on Monday as Arizona chase a 9-4 record. The 49ers, their NFC West rivals, bring a 5-7 record into the clash and their limited pass defense will struggle to contain Warner and his talented receivers. The Cardinals look a safe bet to take this one.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Boxing: Pacquiao-Mayweather bout taking shape
The fight of 2010 looks to be on as Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jnr finalise plans for a welterweight bout on March 13.
Currently, the Superdome in New Orleans and Cowboy Stadium in Texas are among the arenas competing to host the fight.
There is clearly a lot of mutual respect for their career accomplishments but sparks will fly if, as expected, boxing's two best pound-for-pound fighters square off next year.
Currently, the Superdome in New Orleans and Cowboy Stadium in Texas are among the arenas competing to host the fight.
There is clearly a lot of mutual respect for their career accomplishments but sparks will fly if, as expected, boxing's two best pound-for-pound fighters square off next year.
Soccer: Big guns prevail as Champions League group stage ends
There was no happy ending for Champions League minnows Unirea Urziceni or Rubin Kazan as results went against them in the final round of group stage fixtures. Instead, heavyweights Barcelona and Inter edged through to the last 16.
Lionel Messi's free-kick helped Barcelona to a 2-1 win in Kiev while Jose Mourinho's Inter won 2-0 at home to Rubin Kazan of Russia. Meanwhile, Romanian surprise package Unirea Urziceni lost heavily in Stuttgart and missed out on qualification. Both the Russians and the Romanians had to settle for the Europa League.
So ahead of the draw for the next round, the group winners and runners up are listed below:
Group winners: Bordeaux, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Fiorentina, Barcelona, Sevilla, Arsenal
Runners up: Bayern Munich, CSKA Moscow, AC Milan, FC Porto, Lyon, Inter Milan, Stuttgart, Olympiakos
Lionel Messi's free-kick helped Barcelona to a 2-1 win in Kiev while Jose Mourinho's Inter won 2-0 at home to Rubin Kazan of Russia. Meanwhile, Romanian surprise package Unirea Urziceni lost heavily in Stuttgart and missed out on qualification. Both the Russians and the Romanians had to settle for the Europa League.
So ahead of the draw for the next round, the group winners and runners up are listed below:
Group winners: Bordeaux, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Fiorentina, Barcelona, Sevilla, Arsenal
Runners up: Bayern Munich, CSKA Moscow, AC Milan, FC Porto, Lyon, Inter Milan, Stuttgart, Olympiakos
NBA: The team tracker #3
The latest standings:
1) LA Lakers: Nine straight and gunning for 10 against the Jazz. Everything seems to be going the Lakers' way - just ask the Heat who were sunk by Kobe's late 3. They hit the road again later in the week and a visit to Utah will test their resolve before a trip to the slumping Bulls. The streak might well still be going by the end of the week.
2) Boston Celtics: Kevin Garnett continues to make up for lost time and the Celtics are riding an eight-game winning streak. The defense looks rock solid and they are getting plenty of contributions offensively. Trips to Washington, Chicago and Memphis should pose few problems for Boston this week.
3) Orlando Magic: The Magic have not missed a beat since Jameer Nelson's injury, with Vince Carter and Dwight Howard taking control. A six-game winning run and nine victories from their last 10 has Orlando bang on track but this is a big week for the Magic with visits to Utah and Phoenix before ahome banker against the Pacers.
4) Denver Nuggets: Until the loss in Charlotte, the week was looking perfect. The win in San Antonio settled the road nerves and Chauncey Billups put in a masterclass against the Sixers to overshadow AI's return. Melo is still dominating but the Nuggets have work to do if they want to match the Lakers. Games against the Pistons, Suns and Thunder this week will tell us more.
5) Cleveland Cavaliers: The loss in Memphis was a shock but otherwise the Cavs are sailing along nicely. LeBron and his team-mates have been dancing their way to victories but find themselves two games back from Orlando and Boston. A tricky week awaits Mike Brown's team with games against Houston, Portland and Oklahoma City and the Cavs will not want to surrender more ground on the top two teams.
6) Dallas Mavericks: Winning against Phoenix was a big statement and went some way to repairing the damaging home loss to the Hawks. Dirk Nowitzki has been outstanding but there are a few consistency issues for the team to address. Home games with Charlotte and New Orleans this week give the Mavs a chance to strengthen their position in the West.
7) Atlanta Hawks: It has been an up and down week for the Hawks, picking up a big win in Dallas but falling to the Knicks. The feeling remains that the top three are a class apart and that fourth is their likeliest finish but Joe Johnson, Josh Smith and company can improve their record with games against Chicago, Toronto and New Jersey this week.
8) Phoenix Suns: Dropping their last two and fiveof their last 10 has led to question marks about the Suns' chances of lasting the pace. They have had a tough patch and things will get no easier with upcoming games against the streaking Magic, the Nuggets and the Spurs. Phoenix will need to lean once again on Steve Nash and Amar'e Stoudemire as they try to stay in the hunt.
9) Utah Jazz: A big win in San Antonio made up for the loss to Minnesota and the Jazz have won eight of their last 10. Deron Williams continues to lead from the front and Utah are now three games back from division leaders Denver. They may struggle to close that gap, though, with games against the Lakers (twice) and Orlando ahead.
10) Oklahoma City Thunder: Still going strong after solid wins over the Sixers and Warriors. Their progress has been exceptional this year and, with the Spurs and Hornets struggling, a top eight spot is within reach. But after facing the Grizzlies on Friday, the Thunder take on the Cavs and Nuggets in games that will further assess their playoff potential.
1) LA Lakers: Nine straight and gunning for 10 against the Jazz. Everything seems to be going the Lakers' way - just ask the Heat who were sunk by Kobe's late 3. They hit the road again later in the week and a visit to Utah will test their resolve before a trip to the slumping Bulls. The streak might well still be going by the end of the week.
2) Boston Celtics: Kevin Garnett continues to make up for lost time and the Celtics are riding an eight-game winning streak. The defense looks rock solid and they are getting plenty of contributions offensively. Trips to Washington, Chicago and Memphis should pose few problems for Boston this week.
3) Orlando Magic: The Magic have not missed a beat since Jameer Nelson's injury, with Vince Carter and Dwight Howard taking control. A six-game winning run and nine victories from their last 10 has Orlando bang on track but this is a big week for the Magic with visits to Utah and Phoenix before ahome banker against the Pacers.
4) Denver Nuggets: Until the loss in Charlotte, the week was looking perfect. The win in San Antonio settled the road nerves and Chauncey Billups put in a masterclass against the Sixers to overshadow AI's return. Melo is still dominating but the Nuggets have work to do if they want to match the Lakers. Games against the Pistons, Suns and Thunder this week will tell us more.
5) Cleveland Cavaliers: The loss in Memphis was a shock but otherwise the Cavs are sailing along nicely. LeBron and his team-mates have been dancing their way to victories but find themselves two games back from Orlando and Boston. A tricky week awaits Mike Brown's team with games against Houston, Portland and Oklahoma City and the Cavs will not want to surrender more ground on the top two teams.
6) Dallas Mavericks: Winning against Phoenix was a big statement and went some way to repairing the damaging home loss to the Hawks. Dirk Nowitzki has been outstanding but there are a few consistency issues for the team to address. Home games with Charlotte and New Orleans this week give the Mavs a chance to strengthen their position in the West.
7) Atlanta Hawks: It has been an up and down week for the Hawks, picking up a big win in Dallas but falling to the Knicks. The feeling remains that the top three are a class apart and that fourth is their likeliest finish but Joe Johnson, Josh Smith and company can improve their record with games against Chicago, Toronto and New Jersey this week.
8) Phoenix Suns: Dropping their last two and fiveof their last 10 has led to question marks about the Suns' chances of lasting the pace. They have had a tough patch and things will get no easier with upcoming games against the streaking Magic, the Nuggets and the Spurs. Phoenix will need to lean once again on Steve Nash and Amar'e Stoudemire as they try to stay in the hunt.
9) Utah Jazz: A big win in San Antonio made up for the loss to Minnesota and the Jazz have won eight of their last 10. Deron Williams continues to lead from the front and Utah are now three games back from division leaders Denver. They may struggle to close that gap, though, with games against the Lakers (twice) and Orlando ahead.
10) Oklahoma City Thunder: Still going strong after solid wins over the Sixers and Warriors. Their progress has been exceptional this year and, with the Spurs and Hornets struggling, a top eight spot is within reach. But after facing the Grizzlies on Friday, the Thunder take on the Cavs and Nuggets in games that will further assess their playoff potential.
NBA: Shock wins aplenty as Nuggets and Cavs stumble on the road
One of the refreshing elements of this season in the NBA has been the surprise victories that have cropped up so far. We are only around 20 games in but the heavyweights are quickly realising that they will not have everything their own way.
Tuesday night was a classic example. The Denver Nuggets rolled into Charlotte after road wins in San Antonio and Philadelphia yet the Bobcats - who have a losing record - said "not tonight", earning a gutsy 107-95 victory and leaning on Stephen Jackson's 25 points.
Then over in Memphis, the Grizzlies turned the tables on LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs, backed by many to make the NBA Finals, brought a solid run of wins into the contest but Mike Conley Jnr helped the home side to a 111-109 win.
Nothing is predictable in the NBA and long may that continue.
Tuesday night was a classic example. The Denver Nuggets rolled into Charlotte after road wins in San Antonio and Philadelphia yet the Bobcats - who have a losing record - said "not tonight", earning a gutsy 107-95 victory and leaning on Stephen Jackson's 25 points.
Then over in Memphis, the Grizzlies turned the tables on LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs, backed by many to make the NBA Finals, brought a solid run of wins into the contest but Mike Conley Jnr helped the home side to a 111-109 win.
Nothing is predictable in the NBA and long may that continue.
Cricket: West Indies earn impressive draw with Australia
It has been yet another rollercoaster year in West Indies cricket but Chris Gayle's side are threatening to end 2009 on a high note.
Touring Australia was probably the last thing the West Indians needed after boycotts and a resounding loss to Bangladesh but it finally appears to be bringing out the best in the tourists.
After a humbling innings defeat in the First Test, Gayle and his team-mates have clearly regrouped and they held their own in the Second Test in Adelaide, scoring 451 in the first innings and then relying on Gayle's 165 not out to set Australia 330 to win on day five.
But Michael Clarke saved the Aussies' skin with an unbeaten fifty as they moved to 212 for 5 and secured the draw.
There are, though, signs of life in the West Indian side. Dwayne Bravo continues to impress as an all-rounder, scoring a century in Adelaide and taking three wickets on the final day. Sulieman Benn took a five-wicket haul in the first innings and Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Brendan Nash bagged half-centuries.
If the spirit and solid form carries over to the Third Test in Perth, we could have a tight series on our hands.
Touring Australia was probably the last thing the West Indians needed after boycotts and a resounding loss to Bangladesh but it finally appears to be bringing out the best in the tourists.
After a humbling innings defeat in the First Test, Gayle and his team-mates have clearly regrouped and they held their own in the Second Test in Adelaide, scoring 451 in the first innings and then relying on Gayle's 165 not out to set Australia 330 to win on day five.
But Michael Clarke saved the Aussies' skin with an unbeaten fifty as they moved to 212 for 5 and secured the draw.
There are, though, signs of life in the West Indian side. Dwayne Bravo continues to impress as an all-rounder, scoring a century in Adelaide and taking three wickets on the final day. Sulieman Benn took a five-wicket haul in the first innings and Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Brendan Nash bagged half-centuries.
If the spirit and solid form carries over to the Third Test in Perth, we could have a tight series on our hands.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Soccer: Juventus crash out of the Champions League
Italian giants Juventus are out of the Champions League after a humbling 4-1 defeat at home to Bayern Munich.
Despite taking the lead through David Trezeguet, the Italians faded and conceded three second half goals. Bayern join Bordeaux as the group's qualifiers while Juventus are heading for the Europa League.
Elsewhere, Real Madrid and AC Milan booked their places in the second round draw while CSKA Moscow snatched the final qualifying place in Group B after Wolfsburg's 3-1 defeat at home to Manchester United.
Despite taking the lead through David Trezeguet, the Italians faded and conceded three second half goals. Bayern join Bordeaux as the group's qualifiers while Juventus are heading for the Europa League.
Elsewhere, Real Madrid and AC Milan booked their places in the second round draw while CSKA Moscow snatched the final qualifying place in Group B after Wolfsburg's 3-1 defeat at home to Manchester United.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Soccer: United injury crisis worrying Ferguson
Manchester United had plenty to smile about at the weekend as they hammered West Ham 4-0 and saw Chelsea lose at Manchester City. The Blues' lead is now just two points.
But along with all the positives, Sir Alex Ferguson will be losing sleep over his injury crisis in defence. With first choice centre back Rio Ferdinand already out, it has now been reported that Jonny Evans and John O'Shea will not play again until January while Nemanja Vidic has flu.
And at Upton Park on Saturday, Gary Neville and Wes Brown also picked up injuries.
Heading into the Champions League tie with Wolfsburg in midweek - which admittedly carries no major significance for United - Ferguson may have to pair midfielders Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher at the heart of the back four.
With a busy Christmas fixture list on the horizon, the growing queue for the treatment table is threatening to put a dampener on the champions' fine run of form.
But along with all the positives, Sir Alex Ferguson will be losing sleep over his injury crisis in defence. With first choice centre back Rio Ferdinand already out, it has now been reported that Jonny Evans and John O'Shea will not play again until January while Nemanja Vidic has flu.
And at Upton Park on Saturday, Gary Neville and Wes Brown also picked up injuries.
Heading into the Champions League tie with Wolfsburg in midweek - which admittedly carries no major significance for United - Ferguson may have to pair midfielders Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher at the heart of the back four.
With a busy Christmas fixture list on the horizon, the growing queue for the treatment table is threatening to put a dampener on the champions' fine run of form.
Cricket: Gayle fighting lone battle for West Indies
Chris Gayle scored a battling hundred as the West Indies finished day four of the Second Test in Australia on 284-8.
Armed with a first innings lead of 12, the tourists will be setting the Australians a fifth day target of more than 300 - but only thanks to Gayle's spirited 155 not out.
After his failure in the first innings, the West Indies captain took the fight to the Aussie attack, hitting 16 fours and a six. But it was a lone battle. The next highest contribution came from Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who made just 27.
For the Australians, Mitchell Johnson did most of the damage with four wickets and skipper Ricky Ponting will surely turn to the left-armer early on day five in the hope of taking the last two wickets in a hurry.
And, with plenty of quick scorers in the Australian batting line-up, there should be an exciting finish in prospect in Adelaide.
Armed with a first innings lead of 12, the tourists will be setting the Australians a fifth day target of more than 300 - but only thanks to Gayle's spirited 155 not out.
After his failure in the first innings, the West Indies captain took the fight to the Aussie attack, hitting 16 fours and a six. But it was a lone battle. The next highest contribution came from Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who made just 27.
For the Australians, Mitchell Johnson did most of the damage with four wickets and skipper Ricky Ponting will surely turn to the left-armer early on day five in the hope of taking the last two wickets in a hurry.
And, with plenty of quick scorers in the Australian batting line-up, there should be an exciting finish in prospect in Adelaide.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Soccer: Weekend of missed penalties in the Premier League
Scoring from 12 yards is not supposed to be diffcult - but that did not stop four players failing from the penalty spot in the Premier League this weekend.
In Saturday's early kick-off, Portsmouth's Aruna Dindane saw his penalty saved by Burnley's Brian Jensen but was relieved to see his team go on to claim a 2-0 win.
Then Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas was excellently denied by Thomas Sorensen in the Gunners' victory over Stoke.
The trend continued in Saturday's late game. With Chelsea trailing 2-1 at Manchester City, Frank Lampard had the chance to restore parity but could not beat Shay Given in the City goal. It was a costly miss - City held on for the points.
And Jermain Defoe completed the quartet with his miss on Sunday against Everton. Tottenham had surrendered a two-goal lead but Defoe was presented with the chance to win the game in stoppage time after Wilson Palacios was barged over by Tony Hibbert.
But Tim Howard saved smartly with his legs and the Toffees held on for a gutsy 2-2 draw.
In Saturday's early kick-off, Portsmouth's Aruna Dindane saw his penalty saved by Burnley's Brian Jensen but was relieved to see his team go on to claim a 2-0 win.
Then Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas was excellently denied by Thomas Sorensen in the Gunners' victory over Stoke.
The trend continued in Saturday's late game. With Chelsea trailing 2-1 at Manchester City, Frank Lampard had the chance to restore parity but could not beat Shay Given in the City goal. It was a costly miss - City held on for the points.
And Jermain Defoe completed the quartet with his miss on Sunday against Everton. Tottenham had surrendered a two-goal lead but Defoe was presented with the chance to win the game in stoppage time after Wilson Palacios was barged over by Tony Hibbert.
But Tim Howard saved smartly with his legs and the Toffees held on for a gutsy 2-2 draw.
NBA: Nuggets clinical in San Antonio, Raps win again
All the talk pre-season suggested that the San Antonio Spurs had taken huge strides forward over the summer and the Denver Nuggets had gone nowhere.
Saturday night said otherwise.
Carmelo Anthony took centre stage with 34 points as the Nuggets improved to 15-4 with a 106-99 victory, despite trailing for three quarters of the game.
Chauncey Billups made a fast start on the way to 18 points and five assists while JR Smith had 17 off the bench.
Tony Parker led the Spurs with 27 points and Tim Duncan went 10 of 12 for 26 points - but the Nuggets had the cool heads down the stretch.
Anthony made a slow start, going 2 of 7 early, as the Spurs led by seven at the end of the first quarter, thanks to George Hill's buzzer-beating three.
With their bench scoring 25 first half points and Duncan proving unstoppable in the low post, San Antonio kept the Nuggets in check and secured a 59-53 half-time lead.
But last season's run to the Western Conference finals has strengthened the Nuggets as a group and they seem to thrive on the big game atmosphere. George Karl's team cranked up their defense and Melo started to heat up.
The Spurs committed 19 turnovers on the night and Denver made them pay. Anthony, who went 14 for 27 and 10 for 16 in the second half, continued to sink jumpers - no matter who was guarding him. He had as many second half field goals as the entire Spurs team.
After three quarters, the Nuggets were within one and they took the lead on Smith's three-pointer at 78-76. From there, they rode Anthony and relied on a pumped up defense, led superbly by Kenyon Martin.
Maintaining a slender lead throughout the fourth quarter, Billups extended it to a six-point advantage with a clutch jumper and then sunk the free throws that put the game to bed.
For the Spurs, it was a second straight loss to a division leader and questions will be asked about their offense. New faces Richard Jefferson and Antonio McDyess are not shooting well and Parker had no assists in the second half.
San Antonio will bounce back but thus far the Nuggets, who have won seven of their last eight, certainly look the likeliest threat to the Lakers' domination in the West.
Over in the East, the Toronto Raptors have regained some belief. One night on from a big overtime win in Washington, Chris Bosh and company hammered the Bulls 110-78 in Chicago.
Toronto used a lightning start to establish a 21-point first quarter lead. Bosh had a game-high 25 points while four other Raptors got into double figures.
The Bulls shot a miserable 39% from the field but credit must go to a vastly-improved Toronto defense, which grabbed loose balls and challenged every shot. Players are taking more responsibility and a run of victories will follow if they can keep up this intensity.
Saturday night said otherwise.
Carmelo Anthony took centre stage with 34 points as the Nuggets improved to 15-4 with a 106-99 victory, despite trailing for three quarters of the game.
Chauncey Billups made a fast start on the way to 18 points and five assists while JR Smith had 17 off the bench.
Tony Parker led the Spurs with 27 points and Tim Duncan went 10 of 12 for 26 points - but the Nuggets had the cool heads down the stretch.
Anthony made a slow start, going 2 of 7 early, as the Spurs led by seven at the end of the first quarter, thanks to George Hill's buzzer-beating three.
With their bench scoring 25 first half points and Duncan proving unstoppable in the low post, San Antonio kept the Nuggets in check and secured a 59-53 half-time lead.
But last season's run to the Western Conference finals has strengthened the Nuggets as a group and they seem to thrive on the big game atmosphere. George Karl's team cranked up their defense and Melo started to heat up.
The Spurs committed 19 turnovers on the night and Denver made them pay. Anthony, who went 14 for 27 and 10 for 16 in the second half, continued to sink jumpers - no matter who was guarding him. He had as many second half field goals as the entire Spurs team.
After three quarters, the Nuggets were within one and they took the lead on Smith's three-pointer at 78-76. From there, they rode Anthony and relied on a pumped up defense, led superbly by Kenyon Martin.
Maintaining a slender lead throughout the fourth quarter, Billups extended it to a six-point advantage with a clutch jumper and then sunk the free throws that put the game to bed.
For the Spurs, it was a second straight loss to a division leader and questions will be asked about their offense. New faces Richard Jefferson and Antonio McDyess are not shooting well and Parker had no assists in the second half.
San Antonio will bounce back but thus far the Nuggets, who have won seven of their last eight, certainly look the likeliest threat to the Lakers' domination in the West.
Over in the East, the Toronto Raptors have regained some belief. One night on from a big overtime win in Washington, Chris Bosh and company hammered the Bulls 110-78 in Chicago.
Toronto used a lightning start to establish a 21-point first quarter lead. Bosh had a game-high 25 points while four other Raptors got into double figures.
The Bulls shot a miserable 39% from the field but credit must go to a vastly-improved Toronto defense, which grabbed loose balls and challenged every shot. Players are taking more responsibility and a run of victories will follow if they can keep up this intensity.
Rugby: Wasps outlast Tigers to continue playoff surge
Tries from Paul Sackey and Steve Kefu drove London Wasps to a resilient 24-22 victory over Leicester Tigers on Sunday.
Dave Walder added 14 points with the boot as Wasps took a six-point lead in at half-time and, led by the outstanding Simon Shaw, held firm to move just one point behind the Tigers in the Guinness Premiership table.
Toby Flood kept Leicester in contention with five penalties and a last gasp Jordan Crane try earned the Tigers a bonus point - but it was Wasps' day.
Sackey steamrollered his way over after just six minutes to give the home side a dream start but Flood soon punished Wasps with calm goal-kicking on the way to 12 first-half points.
But five minutes before the break, with his team trailing 12-8, Kefu dived over under the posts. Walder slotted the conversion and added a penalty to give Wasps an 18-12 half-time advantage.
In a scrappy second half, the hosts kept their noses in front as Walder struck two penalties while Flood managed just one. As the Tigers mounted a desperate late assault, Crane forced his way over and Aaron Mauger drilled over the extras.
But it was too little, too late as Wasps - who had Danny Cipriani back among the replacements -held on to stay in the midst of the playoff race.
Dave Walder added 14 points with the boot as Wasps took a six-point lead in at half-time and, led by the outstanding Simon Shaw, held firm to move just one point behind the Tigers in the Guinness Premiership table.
Toby Flood kept Leicester in contention with five penalties and a last gasp Jordan Crane try earned the Tigers a bonus point - but it was Wasps' day.
Sackey steamrollered his way over after just six minutes to give the home side a dream start but Flood soon punished Wasps with calm goal-kicking on the way to 12 first-half points.
But five minutes before the break, with his team trailing 12-8, Kefu dived over under the posts. Walder slotted the conversion and added a penalty to give Wasps an 18-12 half-time advantage.
In a scrappy second half, the hosts kept their noses in front as Walder struck two penalties while Flood managed just one. As the Tigers mounted a desperate late assault, Crane forced his way over and Aaron Mauger drilled over the extras.
But it was too little, too late as Wasps - who had Danny Cipriani back among the replacements -held on to stay in the midst of the playoff race.
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