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Victory comeback stuns Sydney

Written By Unknown on Sabtu, 10 November 2012 | 20.47

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Hero ... Andrew Nabbout (C) celebrates with Melbourne Victory fans after their comeback win. Source:AAP

Melbourne Victory heaped more pain on Sydney FC, coming from two goals down to score a thrilling 3-2 A-League win on Saturday night.

Eager to put last week's horror 7-2 thrashing by Central Coast behind them, the Sky Blues looked set to post a much-needed win after taking a 2-0 lead in front of 21,531 fans at Allianz Stadium.

But two goals by impressive teenage substitute Andrew Nabbout and another by Archie Thompson inside the last 12 minutes gave Ange Postecoglou's side a memorable win.

The Victory had dominated possession for most of the match but the Sky Blues looked set to profit from making the most of their chances.

P W D L GD Pts
1 Adelaide 5 4 0 1 5 12
2 Newcastle 6 4 0 2 1 12
3 Central Coast 5 3 1 1 6 10
4 Perth 5 3 0 2 2 9
5 Victory 6 3 0 3 -4 9
6 Heart 6 2 1 3 0 7
7 Western Sydney 6 2 1 3 -1 7
8 Sydney 6 2 0 4 -7 6
9 Wellington 5 1 2 2 -1 5
10 Brisbane 6 1 1 4 -1 4

An early goal to impressive Panamanian striker Yairo Yau and Dutch defender Pascal Bosschaart's first ever professional goal in the second half looked to have them on course for three competition points.

Sydney welcomed back star signing Alessandro Del Piero after he sat out the loss to the Mariners with a hamstring complaint, and Italian delivered a classy performance before being substituted in the 66th minute - a decision Sky Blues coach Ian Crook may regret in hindsight.

With Bosschaart and Fabio back from injury too, Crook also promoted Blake Powell to the starting line-up and the home side looked determined from the outset.

It didn't take them long to capitalise, with Yau opening the scoring for the second straight week.

Del Piero played Powell into space and the 21-year-old youngster did brilliantly in cutting the ball back to set up Yau for a simple tap-in.

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Victory captain Adrian Leijer and Sydney's Seb Ryall were forced off the field midway through the first half after a sickening head clash but were both able to continue after some treatment and heavy bandaging.

The visitors grew into the game throughout the first half, with only a brilliant 44th-minute save by Ivan Necevski preserving Sydney's 1-0 lead at halftime.

Melbourne appeared to start the second half with purpose but Sydney doubled their advantage against the run of play in the 48th minute.

Some more Del Piero trickery led to a Sky Blues corner and, after the Victory failed to clear, Bosschaart struck a sweet first-time volley that Necevski failed stop.

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It was the 32-year-old's first goal in almost 400 games played in the Netherlands and Australia.

Victory almost pulled one back in the 56th minute with Necevski's fingertip save denying Marco Rojas from close range.

Teenager Nabbout gave the visitors hope with a brilliant curling finish to set up a nail-biting finish and the home crowd were stunned as the Victory came home like a train.

Thompson struck with a header in the 86th minute to level the scores before Nabbout capped a spectacular performance off the bench with the winner, a pin-point header from Gui Finkler's corner in stoppage time.

Crook was involved in a heated argument with a group of fans after the match, who criticised him for the substitutions of Del Piero and Yau while Sydney were up 2-0.

But the coach defended the decisions, saying the pair were underdone and had to come off, believing Sydney simply ran out of legs.

Del Piero trained only once this week and Crook said the plan was originally to bring him off at halftime.

Asked about the post-match incident, Crook played it down, saying the fans were "just having a go at me for bringing them (the players) off.''

"It's nothing, that's the way it is,'' Crook said.

"For me, I'd defend the boys all day long. They (fans) obviously see Yairo come off and Alessandro come off ... but people don't know the situations that come before that and the reasons they are coming off.

"How they even played the game was a credit to them.''

Crook said Sydney would keep believing in what they were doing but accepted he was under pressure personally after the losses.

"You lose at this club and straight away people start to question it and that's part of it,'' Crook said.

Postecolgou hailed the impact of Nabbout, plucked from the youth team earlier this season, and believed the Victory deserved the result.

"I was pleased with the whole 90 minutes and think that's the best 90 minutes we've put together,'' the coach said.


Relive the match with all the highlights and stats that matter in our A-League Match Centre.


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New ball key to Aussie hopes

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Hope ... James Pattinson and his fellow quicks have to take advantage of the second new ball. Source: Adam Head / News Limited

Disappointed coach Mickey Arthur has demanded Australia's pacemen learn from their day one mistakes and make the most of the second new-ball when the Brisbane rain clears on Sunday.

Not one ball was bowled on day two of the first Test at the Gabba but Arthur was still ruing a poor start by his attack which he rated too tentative and short against a top-notch South African top-order.

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The Proteas will resume their first innings at 2-255 on Sunday with Hashim Amla (90 not out) and Jacques Kallis (84 not out) both eying centuries and the tourists looking for a 500-plus total.

James Pattinson was the only quick to taste success on a green Gabba track, curling back an inswinger to trap Graeme Smith leg before in the opening hour on Friday.

1st Test - Gabba

9 November 2012 - Day 2, Session 3

South Africa 1st Innings

H. Amla 90 207 6 1 43.48
J. Kallis 84 135 8 1 62.22
M. Hussey 4 0 21 0 5.25

Arthur felt Australia's attack could still make in-roads into a middle-order missing injured No.7 JP Duminy but his quicks couldn't afford to repeat their day one execution.

"It probably wasn't good enough,'' he said. "I thought we got our lengths wrong. I think we needed to be a little bit fuller.

"We weren't as clinical as we have been or as we would hope to be.

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"We weren't able to put South Africa under pressure for long enough.

"Maybe we were a little bit tentative and maybe we just wanted to get through that first session and see how it unfolded after that.

"We've still got the second new ball up our sleeve, that's the one trump we have. We have to make that second new ball work for us.''

Saturday's wash-out was the first time in 14 years rain had prevented any play in a Test on Australian soil and the first time in 29 years at the Gabba.

Day two was abandoned 90 minutes before scheduled stumps and the only action for Australian players was serving at merchandise stands and signing autographs.

The tourists' opening-day dominance was badly tarnished by the loss of Duminy for the three-Test series after he ruptured his achilles tendon in a freak post-stumps training mishap.

The left-hander underwent surgery on Saturday morning and South Africa coach Gary Kirsten confirmed they would call for a replacement to join the tour party in the coming days.

South Africa A opener Dean Elgar, who has played five one-day internationals, is expected to be preferred ahead of former vice-captain Ashwell Prince.

Former Proteas coach Arthur described Duminy's injury - which will sideline him for six months - as a "tragedy''.

"He's an unbelievably talented cricketer,'' he said.

"I feel really sorry for him and my thoughts go out to JP.''


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Les Bleus will be brutal: Burgess

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Brutal ... the Wallabies can expect a physical encounter when they take on France. Source: Christophe Ena / AP

They may be a new-look team but the same, formidable Gallic passion will fuel a hugely physical French effort against the Wallabies in Paris tomorrow morning.

That's the verdict of former Wallabies halfback Luke Burgess, who has spent the last year in close contract with Les Bleus players after joining powerhouse club Toulouse.

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It wouldn't be a France Test week without the words "unpredictable", "dangerous" and "enigmatic" being trotted out, and the uncertainty about Les Bleus only heightened yesterday when new coach Philippe Saint Andre named an unfamiliar side to play Australia.

Making good on his promises of change, Saint Andre picked a starting team with only two survivors from the Wallabies' 59-16 win on their last trip to Stade de France in 2010.

New faces are dotted throughout the team due to injuries, retirements or axings of many veterans who helped France almost win the World Cup last year.

But based on his experiences in Europe, Burgess has warned the Wallabies the French players are "quietly confident" they can see them snap a six-game losing streak to Australia.

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"It's a strong squad. There is a massive core of Clermont and Toulouse players, who play together all the time," Burgess said.

"They play a lot of football over here, they're very experienced.

"As a group they are capable of anything. You saw the way they played against the All Blacks, they can basically beat any team in the world on their day."

Burgess, who played 37 Tests for Australia, said the French style of rugby was far different from southern hemisphere rugby, but it shouldn't be under-estimated.

"I don't know what its like to play for France but playing club rugby here, they're extremely passionate," Burgess said.

"They're not scared of anyone, that's for sure."I have been impressed with how strong (French rugby) is. A lot of people in the south don't understand what it's like and they bag it, they think it's ugly.

"But rugby is played differently in the north, and if you come up here and try and play southern hemisphere rugby, you'll get surprised. Like Australia has on the last few Spring Tours."


Catch all the action as Australia take on France, Live and in High Definition, from 6.45am Sunday (EDT) on Fox Sports 1HD.


Skipper Thierry Dusatoir is among a handful of experienced players injured, but the likes of Willie Servat, Lionel Nallet have retired and former stalwarts like Aurelien Rougerie and Yannick Jauzion were overlooked in Saint Andre's vision to re-build.

Goal-kicking halfback Morgan Parra was benched for Maxime Machinaud, speedy Clermont centre Wesley Fofana was moved to the wing and 30-year-old prop Yannick Forestier given a debut.

Only flanker Fulgence Ouedrago and prop Nicolas Mas remain from the 2010 match.

French rugby was sent into a spin after Australia's heavy win, but somehow, despite a chaotic World Cup campaign, Les Bleus made the final and were arguably unlucky to lose in the final.

Burgess believes the French are in better shape now than last year.

"They seem to have galvanized themselves (with the World Cup result)," he said.

"I think they have improved. There is quiet confidence, and are very determined. It just has that feel about it.

"It will be a tough match. I reckon it will be really physical. There are pretty much contrasting styles of rugby, a lot will depend on the ref; what does he want to see? Does he want to see a contest at the breakdown or does he want to see the ball liberated?"


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'I wouldn't swap Suarez for anyone'

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Vital ... Striker Luis Suarez has been a shining light for Liverpool this season. Source: Andrew Yates / AFP

Brendan Rodgers is delighted to have Luis Suarez at his disposal and admits Liverpool cannot afford to lose the striker.

The Reds saw Fernando Torres head for the exits while at the peak of his powers, with a £50million (A$76.5 million) offer from Chelsea enough to lure the Spaniard away from Anfield.

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Rodgers concedes that Liverpool cannot afford to let history repeat itself when it comes to Suarez and his long-term future on Merseyside.

The Uruguayan has remained loyal to the Reds, with Rodgers aware that he could have moved on over the summer, and he is now considered to be indispensable.

"Great players will always leave great clubs, that's happened in the past and will in the future," said the Liverpool boss.

"It's up to us to add players that can help support Luis and move us on.

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"I have had great support from Luis since I've been here. He has really bought into what we are trying to do and our objective has to be to keep the best players.

"I am safe in the knowledge that Luis had the chance to go in the summer. There was probably no better time for that, with a new manager coming in. Luis could have had an excuse to go but, having spoken to him at length, he committed to stay."

"Luis could have had an excuse to go but, having spoken to him at length, he committed to stay."
Brendan Rodgers Quotes of the week

Rodgers added: "He's in his most productive period. Luis has scored 10 goals so far and it took him until February last season to get to that many.

"I wouldn't swap him for anyone. This is a guy whose energy is relentless - he is a defender's nightmare.

"We have one of the best strikers in the world in Luis and we are very grateful for that.

"He's up there in that one per cent of world-class strikers and there's no team in the world that wouldn't want him."

Read more: http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11669/8239106/Brendan-Rodgers-admits-Liverpool-must-do-all-they-can-to-keep-Luis-Suarez


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Proteas put 'peg in the ground'

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 09 November 2012 | 20.47

Opening up ... Alviro Petersen pulled out a reverse sweep against Nathan Lyon. Source: Dave Hunt / AAP

Hashim Amla and Jacques Kallis became South Africa's greatest scoring partnership as the Proteas seized control on day one of the first Brisbane Test on Friday.

The pair ended the day having made an unbeaten century stand and when bad light stopped play eight overs before scheduled stumps, South Africa were 255 for two with Amla unbeaten on 90 and Kallis providing solid support on 84.

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Kallis previously held his country's aggregate record with current coach Gary Kirsten at 3592 runs in partnerships throughout 64 Tests, and has now surpassed that with Amla following their 136-run partnership for the third wicket.

At day's end, the pair had accumulated 3607 runs together in their 58th Test while Amla, the number one-ranked Test batsman, passed 5000 Test runs.

"We wanted to really put our peg in the ground and I think we did that really well,'' opening batsman Alviro Petersen said.

"Two wickets down, we're in a comfortable position but tomorrow's going to be really important, to back that up and make sure today's work doesn't go to waste.''

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Michael Clarke used six bowlers - even the modest medium pace of debutant Rob Quiney - in a bid to winkle a breakthrough.

"You can make excuses, but we probably lacked a bit of penetration and a bit of consistency and our maiden count was the big thing,'' paceman James Pattinson said.

"When it's not playing as much as you would like, you probably want to dry up the runs a bit and we probably didn't do that.''

Australia earlier left out paceman Mitchell Starc and went with the spin of Nathan Lyon while the Proteas gave Rory Kleinveldt his Test debut in a four-strong pace attack.


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'Flynn factor' overpowers Sixers

Impact ... Jonny Flynn stars on debut for Melbourne Tigers against Adelaide 36ers. Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Limited

The "Flynn Factor" was huge last night at Hisense Arena as Melbourne played Harlem Globetrotters to Adelaide's Washington Generals in a humiliating 96-66 NBL rout.

Merely the presence of new Tigers signing and 2009 No.6 NBA draft pick Jonny Flynn lifted Melbourne as it put on a show after a slight opening stutter where the 36ers looked like making a game of it.

In what was the 6000th game in NBL history, Melbourne turned around a 23-point loss to the Sixers in the season opener behind 24 points from Chris Goulding and an 18-point, 10-rebound double by import Seth Scott.

The worry again for Adelaide fans was not the loss so much as the manner of its ultimately meek capitulation, hardly inspiring to view with Perth Wildcats in town at Adelaide Arena on Saturday.

Flynn had 12 points on 4-of-17 shooting, 10 assists and eight rebounds to generate players running around him.

Adam Gibson started on him, Jason Cadee spent time defending him as well before Mitch Creek had a crack at the former Minnesota Timberwolves playmaker.

It was not so much what Flynn did, what he created or how he shot. It was what his confidence and ball assurity did to his Tiger team-mates who had lost four straight games before last round's win over Townsville.

The Tigers looked overly "Flynn-conscious" early but after Adelaide snuck to a 7-5 lead, they started to settle.

Goulding took it upon himself to take control of Melbourne's offence, grabbing a defensive board and driving forward to strike a jumpshot.

Flynn, who had fed Scott and Goulding for earlier buckets, slipped a sweet pass to Liam Rush and Melbourne had the lead.

Goulding continued to dominate, finishing with 11 points in the first quarter as Adelaide's offence spluttered, needing individual efforts.

By the first break, Melbourne was ahead 19-14 despite Flynn off to a 0-of-5 shooting night, Adelaide with Gibson on two early fouls and the signs already worrying.

Anthony Petrie swished a triple to start the second period scoring but whenever the 36ers threatened, Melbourne had the answers.

Flynn was given a charity trip to the free throw line at 8:31 with a dubious foul against Cadee to open his scoring with two genuine freebies.

But Melbourne was playing with greater purpose, Luke Schenscher battling for three offensive rebounds in succession around four shot attempts before the Tigers fouled him.

An open jumpshot by Gibson with 3:02 to the break kept the 36ers in touch at 30-35.

But Flynn clearly identified Adam Ballinger as a quality jumpshooter and Scott as a reliable scorer.

He fed Scott for 37-30, missed a drive which Rush tipped in, then hit Ballinger with a dish for 41-30, Adelaide reeling.

That stayed the buffer to half-time and a 13-4 run to start the third made this academic, Flynn passing to Scott for a dunk, Goulding hitting a three in transition and Melbourne putting on a show.


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'Hamilton already regrets move'

Regret ... Lewis Hamilton will move from McLaren to Mercedes in 2013. Source: Rogerio Barbosa / News Limited

McLaren boss Martin Whitmarsh believes Lewis Hamilton is already having regrets over his move to Mercedes next season.

Whitmarsh concedes he still does "not fully understand" why Hamilton opted to quit McLaren after 14 years and join a team that has won just one race since returning to the sport three years ago.

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He appreciates Hamilton's desire to "flee the nest" after 14 years but feels it might have been a knee-jerk reaction to a bad result in Singapore, a race he would probably have won but for a technical failure.

"It is always bad to make a decision in the aftermath of a bad race," Whitmarsh said. "He was pretty sure he was going to win that race and it (the retirement) was a disappointment.

"I respect his decision, but I believe he would be better off with us; we are the stronger team and we intend to beat him next year.

"You have to justify your decision. He is not going to say 'Hey, they offered me more money'. He is also not going to say he's made an awful mistake. I hope he thinks today he's made an awful mistake and I hope he thinks that next year.

"He's made that decision and he has to live with that decision.

"Right now we still want to win races. We are motivated by that and our conversation circles around that. Maybe he is completely dispassionate about it, but my guess is we both will have very emotional moments in Brazil.

"I have known him since he was 11 and worked with him since his teens and I know we will both be very emotional after Brazil. We have had one or two emotional moments since the decision was taken and I believe, but you must ask him, that we have a very good relationship."

Read more: http://www1.skysports.com/formula-1/news/12479/8237348/Lewis-Hamilton-might-be-regretting-his-move-to-Mercedes-next-season


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Casey's biggest controversies

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Crash ... Rossi crash at Jerez in 2010 is just one of several outspoken Stoner moments. Source: Francisco Seco / AFP

To say Casey Stoner speaks his mind is like saying he's good at riding a motorcycle. The words themselves just don't carry enough weight to convey the full magnitude of their meaning.

In this modern era of the PR-polished sportsman who spits out perfect sponsor-friendly comments whenever a microphone is thrust in their general direction, Stoner has remained very much his own man.

As his little Twitter spat with Mark Winterbottom illustrated on Monday, Stoner has plenty of opinions and has never been afraid to share them.

As he wraps up his MotoGP career at Valencia on Sunday, here are just a few of the other instances where Stoner has hit the headlines.

Stoner was stopped from riding this bike so he headed overseas. Source: Supplied

Stoner versus the establishment
The bike you see in the photo alongside this text is what set Casey Stoner on the road to international stardom.  However, unlike most road-to-glory stories, Stoner's legend doesn't actually involve him riding this bike.

A 14-year-old Casey and his family faced strong opposition from racing authorities in Australia, prompting he and his family to pack up and head overseas where the minimum racing age was lower.

Stoner still holds bitterness over it, illustrated by this comment in the run-up to Phillip Island this year.

"Unfortunately motorsport inside Australia doesn't have support. There's nobody out there that's stepping up with sponsorship, or helping to find places for people to ride or start learning, or running Australian championships.

"It's very disappointing. I think everybody wants to be wrapped up in cotton wool too much. There's too many court cases pulled out because [there's] some young rider something happened to."


Great or grating? Have Stoner's outspoken opinions put you off? Leave your comments below.


An example of the CRT bikes which Stoner hates. Source: Supplied

Stoner versus MotoGP
It's no secret that Casey Stoner is retiring because he's unhappy with the direction the sport is taking.

MotoGP finds itself in a bind with manufacturers deserting the all-prototype class as automotive companies tighten their belts. With grids shrinking, MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports elected to introduce a new class - Claiming Rules Teams - which used production-based motors in specially-built frames.

Stoner lamented the change, citing it as one of the driving factors behind his early exit from the sport.

"This isn't a two-standard series, this is the MotoGP championship, this is a prototype championship," he said after dropping his retirement bombshell at Le Mans.

"People can say all they want about the past, that it started out as very standard machines and basically progressed to prototype machines, and now we're just taking the opposite step and going backwards. It's not starting again from the beginning, it's going backwards.

"It's not the championship I fell in love with."

Stoner hasn't always had the best relationship with the press. Source: AP

Stoner versus the press
Our Casey has never had a good time of things from the press. Initially labelled as a crasher, his 2007 title was lauded as a triumph of machine rather than man, the press and fans claiming the championship was won because Stoner was on comfortably the best bike.

What tipped the balance for Stoner was 2009. Beset by an undiagnosed illness that sapped him of strength, he struggled through race after race until he decided to step away for a few rounds to work out what was wrong.

Cue bulk criticism from the press, the fans, and even past champions. Stoner says it prompted his first thoughts of retirement.

"2009 to be honest was a big eye-opener for me. Everybody still thinks to this day says it's a mystery illness, the fact that nobody understands that I have a lactose intolerance, that it's really critical to me if I do have any.

"It takes my energy, it stops me from absorbing nutrients. And so the fact that nobody has listened to me about that. There have been many, many things that have over time just taken its toll."

De Puniet gets a punch for inadvertently blocking Stoner. Source: Supplied

Stoner versus De Puniet
It's hard to comprehend the frame of mind a rider needs to hop aboard a snarling, 150-horsepower, two-wheel rocket and go and take it by the scruff of the neck and put in a laptime faster than anyone else.

Interrupting that frame of mind incurs a rider's wrath. Stoner is no different, as Randy de Puniet found when he inadvertently blocked the Australian during the warm-up session at Le Mans last year.

Stoner retaliated with punch in the shoulder, gesturing at the Frenchman, asking 'what are you thinking?'

The net result was a €5,000 fine for Stoner and no penalty for de Puniet.

Learning there was a closing speed between the two bikes of over 160kmh makes it easier to sympathise with his actions, especially when he sums it up like this:

"When something like that happens, you feel like you're going to die for half a second."

Stoner sarcastically applauds Rossi after their Jerez clash. Source: AFP

Stoner versus Rossi
Sports fans thrive on rivalries. Home versus away. Red versus blue. Good versus evil.

With Valentino Rossi already very much established in the fans' hearts as the lead troop in the good army, the outspoken interloper Stoner was always going to be painted as the villain.

The pair have had numerous clashes on-track and off. Their titanic battle at Laguna Seca in 2008 is a highlight.

But one clash will always stick in everyone's mind: Jerez 2011.

'The Doctor', now saddled with Stoner's untameable Ducati, was racing near the front on a wet track. He tried to pass Stoner's Honda on the damp track, losing the front end and wiping both of them out.

Vale went to the Repsol garage afterwards to apologise, where the nine-time world champion was met with this absolute gem of a response from Stoner.

"Obviously your ambition outweighs your talent."


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Langer's our No.1 target: WACA

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 08 November 2012 | 20.47

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Justin Langer ... is the top candidate to take over as WACA coach. Source: Lincoln Baker / News Limited

The Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) has confirmed Justin Langer is their No.1 target in the search for a new coach.

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Lachlan Stevens resigned as coach of the Western Australia and Perth Scorchers cricket teams on Wednesday, citing personal reasons.

The board met on Wednesday night and identified Langer as its preferred candidate for both roles.

Langer, Australia's batting coach, is with the national team in Brisbane for the first Test against South Africa.

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WACA chief executive Christina Matthews issued a statement on Thursday, saying discussions with the former WA captain will be put on hold until the first Test ends.

"We respect Justin has a very important job to do over the next five days," Matthews said.

"We will therefore allow him to concentrate on that task before we intend to speak with him about the position of Warriors and Scorchers head coach, and hope to make a positive announcement shortly after the completion of the Brisbane Test."

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Stevens' resignation capped a tumultuous month for the WACA, who have been dealing with the fallout of a boozy night out in South Africa that overshadowed the Scorchers' Champions League Twenty20 campaign.

Marcus North recently stood down as captain of Western Australia and the Scorchers, citing his own form issues rather than any off-field culture concerns.

Adam Voges was endorsed as North's successor at Wednesday night's WACA board meeting.

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The Warriors have copped three-day thrashings in each of their three Sheffield Shield games this season, suggesting the state will struggle to break a title drought that stretches back to 2004.

Assistant coach Adam Griffith will take the reins for WA's first-class fixture against South Australia, which begins at the WACA Ground on Monday.

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland said they would not stand in Langer's way if he chose to grab the WA coaching reins.

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"If he was to look to greener pastures that would be a loss to us but not a loss for Australian cricket because he would do a fantastic job in that role and it would be a great career step for him," he said in Brisbane on Thursday.

"It would create a short term issue for us but overall it would be a good thing for Australian cricket."

Sutherland saw a silver lining to the WACA's current troubles.

"It is certainly a concern but they are a matter for the WACA," he said of their tumultuous month.

"They are working through that.

"And there are open lines of communication between the WACA and Cricket Australia on these sorts of things - I am sure collectively solutions can be found.

"I actually see these sorts of things as a positive because it provides a rude awakening for people to act and make decisions that will see teams and organisations better for what comes out of it."


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'Tomic troubles just a hiccup'

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Encouragement ... Ken Rosewell thinks Bernard Tomic will hit back. Source: Mark Evans / News Limited

Ken Rosewall says he is hopeful Bernard Tomic's recent troubles on and off the court prove to be just a hiccup on his way to a successful professional career.

Since emerging as Australian men's tennis' next great hope, Tomic's career has stalled badly as he's endured poor form, allegations of tanking and a number of run-ins with the law.

However, tennis great Rosewall said he is confident Tomic can turn all of that around.

"He is only 20 so let's hope that he will learn from his mistakes," Rosewall said on Thursday.

"I think Bernard has realised he needs to work hard on his game, his attitude towards the game, his physique and his movement around the court. That's what's going to help him become a much better player.

"I would like to think it (Tomic's problems) is a hiccup for him."

Tomic's world ranking has slumped from a high of 27 to 51 and he failed to beat a higher-ranked opponent since the Australian Open in January.

He faced court on the Gold Coast on Monday and was found guilty of failing to stop for police, fined $1000 and placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond.

Speaking at the launch of the Asia-Pacific Tennis League, a new tournament aimed at re-energising the playing ranks of Australian tennis, Rosewall said Tomic faces a steep learning curve.

"He has done well pretty much up to this year and I think he now knows he has a lot to learn," Rosewall said.

"He has gone through a bad time now for various reasons. Hopefully he can get over that and work much harder on his game and become a better player."

Tomic was seen as a disruptive element as Australia crashed out of the Davis Cup World Group in losing to Germany in September. But Rosewall said the team environment of Davis Cup could be Tomic's saviour.

"If he spends more time in the Australian team that camaraderie could really help him. That team environment has played a large part in the success of Australian tennis in the past and it is something that Bernard could really use," he said.


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Bjorn leads rain-hit Singapore Open

Thomas Bjorn ... has made a good start to the Singapore Open. Source: AAP

Denmark's Thomas Bjorn held a one-shot clubhouse lead in the $US6 million ($A5.79 million) Singapore Open on Thursday as a thunderstorm halted play with half the field yet to complete the first round.

World No.1 Rory McIlroy, level-par through eight holes, was among 78 players affected by the overnight suspension - which came after officials said they'd like to change the event's dates because of its notorious weather delays.

Bjorn shot a scintillating five-under-par 66 at the demanding par-71 Sentosa Golf Club to lead England's Simon Khan, Chinnarat Phadungsil of Thailand and Spain's Pablo Martin by a stroke.

England's Paul Casey continued his hot run of recent form to lie two off the pace at three-under-par 68, alongside South Korean major-winner YE Yang and Thai pair Kwanchai Tannin and Chapchai Nirat.

Australia's world No.6 Adam Scott, a three-time winner, carded a par 71 to be tied for 38th in the tournament co-sanctioned by the European and Asian Tours.

America's Phil Mickelson, sporting bright pink trousers, crashed to a 73 including a double-bogey on the par-three 14th hole, when it took him two shots to get his ball one yard out of thick rough and on to the green.

Bjorn carded six birdies against one bogey for his best opening round since February as the Ryder Cup vice-captain seeks his first tournament victory of the year.

"It's not the longest golf course in the world so if you can keep it in the fairway, you can produce a score, and I did that very well today. That's only round one, so we'll work from here," he said.

The early group played in sauna heat but after McIlroy, watched by his tennis star girlfriend Caroline Wozniacki, had shot two birdies sandwiched between two bogeys, dark clouds gathered and play was stopped due to the risk of lightning.

Players will be back on the course at 7:30am (10.30am AEDT) on Friday with organisers hoping to cram one-and-a-half rounds into one day.

Italy's Edoardo Molinari hit the best shot so far with a hole in one on the par-three 17th - but without being awarded the expensive car which was on display by the tee.

"I hit a six iron 188 yards. We had a decent view of it - it pitched just short of the hole and all of a sudden the people behind the green started to scream and clap," Molinari said.

"There is a BMW car on the tee there but luckily I read on the noticeboard on Tuesday that it was only for display."

Earlier the tournament's promoters admitted they were considering holding the event at a different time of year to prevent storm delays. Last year, it finished on the Monday morning - even after being cut to three rounds.

"Frankly, as far as I'm concerned all bets are off," said Chris Jordan, a senior official with World Sport Group.

"Nothing's a given but we will look at dates because seriously, we can't afford to have too much bad luck on one date any more."

Organisers are still searching for a title sponsor for next year's edition of the event, sometimes referred to as "Asia's Major", after British bank Barclays declined to renew their current deal.


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Michalak picked to ignite France

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Dynamic ... Frederic Michalak is back in favour for France. Source: Franck Fife / AFP

France coach Philippe Saint-Andre has thrown the keys to his backline to born-again five-eighth Frederic Michalak for this weekend's Test against the Wallabies in Paris.

The 30-year-old Michalak, who moved back to France this year after playing Super Rugby in South Africa, has re-ignited his Test career and was favoured over Francois Trinh-Duc for Saturday's (Sunday EDT) clash.

Saint-Andre brought Michalak back to the fold in June's two-Test tour of Argentina with his return coming five years after he was dumped from the national side following the 2007 World Cup.

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Michalak starred in the 49-10 second Test win over Argentina when he kicked 19 points in his 55th Test appearance.

Halfback Morgan Parra, who has missed some training sessions this week with a thigh injury, has been named on the bench with Maxime Machenaud to wear the No.9 jersey.

Saint-Andre has opted to start centre Wesley Fofana on the wing for a second time while the coach has stuck with fullback Brice Dulin, who is set for his third Test cap after touring Argentina earlier this year.

Loose head prop Yannick Forestier will make his debut, packing down with hooker Dimitri Szarzewski and Nicolas Mas.

France squad: Brice Dulin, Wesley Fofana, Florian Fritz, Maxime Mermoz, Vincent Clerc, Frederic Michalak, Maxime Machenaud, Louis Picamoles, Fulgence Ouedraogo, Yannick Nyang, Yoann Maestri, Pascal Pape (capt), Nicolas Mas, Dimitri Szarzewski, Yannick Forestier. Reserves: Benjamin Kayser, Thomas Domingo, Vincent Debaty, Jocelino Suta, Damien Chouly, Morgan Parra, Francois Trinh-Duc, Yoann Huget (one to be ommitted)


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'The pressure is on' says BBL chief

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 07 November 2012 | 20.47

Revamped ... The new-look Big Bash League mirrors the colour and pageantry of American sport. Source: AAP

Cricket Australia revamped its flagship Twenty20 competition, known as the Big Bash League as of last season, with state teams replaced by franchises, a bright colour palette and a level of hype and hyperactivity more X-Games than gentleman's game.

CA looked to the United States, world leaders in fan engagement, and brought a new experience to an old sport. It was a risk, and they were panned by many in the establishment media, who gagged at the mere mention of "franchise" and "cricket" in the same sentence.

CA found a new home for it on Fox Sports, who took a fresh look at the production. The teams' media reps brought fresh enthusiasm and a lot of fun to the concept, and most players embraced it too.

David Warner's Test commitments kept him from playing a significant on-field role but he joined the spirit off it, stripping down to the waist to pose on a magazine cover, photoshopped to look like the Incredible Hulk.

State teammates found themselves on rival city franchises and engaged in excited banter for our entertainment on Twitter.

There were some issues with availability, and some squads appeared to become desperately thin with the big boys missing.

But it was a hit, a Chris Gayle-sized hit. Average audience ratings on Fox Sports were up over 80 per cent on the previous state-based T20 competition. Attendance for all BBL matches was 550,328 (80 per cent greater than the previous record) and 10 per cent of fans were attending their first cricket match.

The freshness of the concept resulted in an estimated $94.5m in media exposure value against $13m in 2011 and that brought a significant rise in national awareness. It was an online success, too, with more than a million visits to the Big Bash website.

The man in charge of delivering a successful competition is BBL Manager Anthony Everard.

BBL|01 was a massive hit, what was driving that success?

Anthony Everard: The fact that we play our games at a great time of year, that the games are scheduled through the middle of the school holiday period when people have time on their hands, that it's a value for money proposition and once you are there it's three hours of non-stop entertainment.

The anecdotal feedback and the deeper research indicates people who go to games have a fun experience and that's why it has such strong appeal.

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We're happy with the results from year one but there's upside as well. We play in big venues and we want to make sure those seats are filled. There's no question we have gotten off to a great start but there's no doubt we have greater aspirations for the future.

Were the results for season one above your expectations, and is there a pressure now to push on further?

AE: There's no question we were delighted with a lot of the metrics from the first year of the Big Bash. It's always difficult when launching a new competition to set realistic expectations. But almost without exception – attendances, TV ratings, the overall interest levels and positive feedback and momentum – it's fair to say we were ahead of our expectations.

To a certain degree the pressure is on us to better that. In the first year you have the luxury of not knowing where the numbers will end up. We now have record pay TV ratings and a number of venues had sold out games. There is no question we have on-going high expectations for the Big Bash.

There was some snobbery directed at the competition last season. Should that disappear now?

AE: People are always going to be entitled to their opinions and any time you launch a new league you'll get a variety of feedback. The important thing for us was to try and make people understand why the BBL was launched the way it was last year. We had a product available that broadens the appeal of our sport. Cricket is fortunate to have three forms of the game and each has different levels of interest from different demographics.

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We wanted to make sure via the Big Bash that we got more young people, families and females involved in the game. We've had some good success, albeit in a short time, and we're confident the strategy is the right one.

There is a distinct American accent to what you are doing, with bands and kiss-cams. You recently joined some other CA staff on a fact-finding mission to the US and have hired American consultants. What is the strategy there?

AE: What is particularly appealing to us from what the US leagues and teams have done is the way they focus their events, and experiences of the events, around the requirements of their fans. One of the key priorities of the BBL is that fans are central to what we do.

We consider ourselves very much an entertainment proposition and believe fans come to the games to have a great experience. We have looked at the States – Major League Baseball,  LA Galaxy games in MLS and the X-Games are all events we attended. It was a great opportunity to see how those American sports make fans a central part of the entertainment experience, through a number of ways – vision screens, the way they bring fans into the venues.

We expect to see at the upcoming BBL a number of initiatives the teams have learned from that and can adapt to give our fans a greater experience at BB games.

Success inevitably brings talk of expansion. What's your timetable for more teams?

AE: We haven't locked ourselves into a timetable. We've only had one season and we're still a month away from the second. We still feel there's a job to do in establishing the existing teams in their local markets.

One of our overarching objectives is to attract new audiences. We feel there is still plenty of upside in doing that with the number of teams and games we have now. I would suggest we're a little way off pushing into new markets with new teams. Down the track, once we have a solid foundation, yes we certainly have aspirations to grow the league and grow the game.


Watch the KFC Twenty20 Big Bash League Live and Exclusive, and in High Definition, on Fox Sports. Get Foxtel.


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Beale lifting Wallabies: Phipps

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Leader ... Kurtley Beale is inspiring his Wallabies teammates. Source: Juan Mabromata / News Limited

Kurtley Beale's enthusiasm is lifting the Wallabies on and off the field, as the five-eighth continues to thrive in a seemingly toxic-free Australian team since taking over from disgruntled No.10 Quade Cooper.

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Halves partner Nick Phipps says it's hard not to be inspired by the silky No.10 who has been bouncing around Wallabies' training in Europe this week ahead of Australia's spring tour opener against France in Paris on Saturday (Sunday EDT).

"KB's (Beale) is so dominant at the moment, his chat and his enthusiasm is something that's helping drive the boys," said Phipps.

In September, then fullback Beale was dropped from the Wallabies but upon his return as five-eighth following an injury to Cooper, he's enjoyed strong performances in three appearances in the Rugby Championship.

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While Cooper is on the outer after being fined and given a suspended three-match ban for critical comments regarding Australian rugby which included describing the Wallabies as having a "toxic environment", Beale continues to mount a case to be a long term Australian five-eighth.

Confidence is high in the Australian camp, especially in the halves, where the two Melbourne Rebels now back themselves to call the shots and play what's in front of them.

"The first few games we played together we were quite nervous but now out on the training paddock in the team meetings even, we are very confident with each other," Phipps said.

"We're confident calling a few plays now too ... Robbie (Deans) gives us that opportunity for sure.

"We've got our game plan obviously but Robbie is the first one to say if there's an opportunity you take it and that every option is the right option if you're committed to it."

Phipps said the French are always a tough opponent but he expects something extra from them as they look to avenge their embarrassing 59-16 loss to Australia in 2010, the last time they played the Wallabies in Paris.

"We know the French are always up for a fight and we know they'll still be quite bitter about that score and it won't be anywhere near that this weekend," Phipps said.

Australia are desperate to protect their top-four ranking during the spring tour while the fifth-ranked French are equally keen to break into the crucial top tier.

The Wallabies are ranked second behind World Cup holders New Zealand, and know they need a good tour to protect their seeding for the 2015 World Cup ahead of the draw for the tournament which will be based on rankings on December 3.

England, France and Wales are fourth, fifth and sixth respectively, with any team outside the protected top four facing the possibility of an early showdown with the all-conquering All Blacks.


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Laws key to match-fixing fight

More powers ... Federal Sport Minister Kate Lundy wants laws for prosecuting match-fixers. Source: Gary Ramage / News Limited

Federal Sport Minister Kate Lundy says getting consistent laws across the country remains the key to fighting match-fixing.

Lundy on Wednesday announced the establishment of a new national integrity of sport unit (NISU), the latest step in a policy agreed on last year with all state and territory governments.

The unit will not have any investigative or enforcement powers, but will work with governments, sporting bodies, betting and law enforcement agencies to facilitate a coordinated approach.

But the minister said the lack of specific match-fixing laws in most states meant laying criminal charges remained difficult.

"Part of the challenge now is for charges to be laid under criminal law. It's usually done under a fraud case, so it's quite difficult to prove," she told reporters at the announcement at Netball Australia's head office in Melbourne.

"By having specific state jurisdictions put in place - criminal sanctions relating specifically to match-fixing and described behaviours - it makes it easier to bring charges and test allegations for people who are accused of such things."

While all state and territory governments signed off on the policy framework in June last year, so far only Victoria and NSW have specific legislation.

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland, also Coalition of Major Professional and Participation Sports chairman, said CEOs of all the sporting bodies involved met on Wednesday and remained united in their push for legislative change.

"It was unanimous that we want to see more action," Sutherland said.


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Motorcycling great Biaggi retires

Champion ... Max Biaggi celebrates his Superbike win at Phillip Island in February. Source: AAP

Italian motorcycling great Max Biaggi announced his retirement from the sport Wednesday.

Biaggi, a former world champion in the 250cc category, went on to finish runner-up in both the 500c and MotoGP categories before turning his talents to the world Superbike series.

The Italian posted a message on his Twitter account earlier Wednesday which read: "Today is going to be a new day for me... things will never be the same.''

He later told reporters: "I have officially retired.''

Biaggi, 41, competed in motorcycling's most illustrious category, GP, for the last time in 2005 when he finished fifth in the series for his then team Honda.

His career-best finish in GP was a second place behind unstoppable compatriot Valentino Rossi, in 2002.

After 2005 Biaggi lost his ride to that year's 250cc world champion Dani Pedrosa. The Italian negotiated with Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki but to no avail.

He walked away from MotoGP to focus his attention on the Superbike series, finishing third in his maiden season with Suzuki in 2007 before winning the championship for the first time with Aprilia in 2010.

Biaggi topped the Superbike standings for a second time at Magny-Cours in France last month where he claimed the title thanks to a half-point lead over Britain's Tom Sykes.

The Italian said he wanted to go out on a high.

"It's the most difficult decision I've had to make,'' he told reporters. "But I want the fans to remember me as a champion.''

Biaggi, who began racing at the relatively late age of 17, added: "Personally I'm very satisfied with what I have achieved in my career. I've had ups and downs but my passion for this sport has never waned.

"I always gave it my all.''


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Carpenter Quiney carves Test spot

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 06 November 2012 | 20.47

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Late bloomers ... Rob Quiney (L) and Michael Hussey were both in their 30s before getting Test debuts. Source:AAP

Rob Quiney might be on target to become Australia's oldest apprentice carpenter, but compared with one of his new Australia teammates, he has scarcely served an apprenticeship at all before becoming a Test batsman.

A calf muscle injury to Shane Watson opened the door, or as Quiney prefers to think of it, a window, to the 30-year-old Victorian left-hander making his debut for Australia against South Africa at the Gabba starting on Friday.

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Seven years ago, it was another 30-year-old left-hander, Michael Hussey, given the chance to wear the baggy green cap for the first time, also in a Brisbane Test, as a result of a fractured rib suffered by Justin Langer, now Australia's batting coach.

But where Hussey had accumulated a record 15,313 runs in first-class cricket over 11 years before making his Test debut, Quiney has been at his cricketing trade for barely half that time, accumulating 3,092 first-class runs.

And yet, ironically, his Test career is beginning just as he is putting in place plans for life after cricket, as an ageing apprentice carpenter.

"The one thing that was doing my head in was what happens after cricket, so I wanted the transition to be fairly smooth," Quiney told The Australian.

"It's a four-year apprenticeship to be done over six years, so fingers crossed I can stay in cricket for a while and knock off a few more years."

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Quiney is adamant he had never given up on his dream of wearing the baggy green. Indeed, his conviction that he would one day play for Australia had grown stronger over the years, not weaker, as he developed his game, following up his impressive 2010-11 season (724 runs at 42.58) with an even more imposing 938 at 49.36 in 2011-12.

But all the while he was becoming more and more aware that he had responsibilities to others, not just himself.

"It wasn't that today (Test selection) wouldn't come but I wanted to be prepared ... now that I've got a daughter, I've got to be mindful that I have to support the family once cricket is done," he said.

Girlfriend Helen and daughter Amelia will be in the Gabba stands on Friday watching proudly as Quiney is presented with his treasured Test cap. And if Cricket Australia has any sense of occasion, they will arrange for the batsman he most admired when he was growing up to present it to him, Allan Border.

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As fate would have it, Border was captain of the last Australian side to lose a Gabba Test, against the West Indies in 1988, but that's not what Quiney remembers about him. Rather, he had Border's poster on his wall as a child because of the way he always fought so desperately, never surrendering. It's a quality Quiney has built into his own game.

"I don't think I've modelled my game on anyone because I've got a different technique to others but Allan Border was someone I loved watching as a kid, just the way he went about it," Quiney said.

Border had to contend with Malcolm Marshall, Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh in that long ago Brisbane Test but Quiney won't be doing it any easier against the Proteas pace trio of Dale Steyn, Vernon Philander and Morne Morkel.

Steyn, in particular, worked up frightening pace against Australia A in Sydney on the weekend, and even though Quiney stood tall to score 85 in the first innings, he was more than happy to allow Phil Hughes to bear the brunt of Steyn's blistering burst in the second innings.

"Everyone knows how good a bowler he is and how fast he can be, so it's good to have a bit of a taste," Quiney said.

He's certain to get another taste at the Gabba, and while his cricketing apprenticeship might fall short of Hussey-like extremes, Australia's new apprentice carpenter batsman should be able to build an innings.


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'Flintoff fight is a joke'

A joke? ... Freddie Flintoff's attempt to enter professional boxing has been met with scepticism. Source: AAP

The chairman of the British Boxing board should be sacked for granting former English cricket captain Andrew Flintoff a professional licence to fight, claims a high-profile promoter.

Frank Maloney said 34-year-old Flintoff's maiden bout on November 30 is an insult to the sport.

"Giving Flintoff a professional licence with no experience of boxing is a joke. It gives our sport a bad name," Maloney told reporters.

The promoter of British heavyweight champion David Price said Flintoff's foray into the world of pro heavyweight fighting is reminiscent of countryman and Olympic rower James Cracknell who was knocked out seconds after he stepped into the ring for the first time.

"They haven't named an opponent for Flintoff yet but even if they find some guy who's lost his first four pro fights, he will still be in against someone with amateur experience," Maloney said.

"It will be a terrible shock when he gets hit on the chin by a heavyweight.

"It is a disgrace (the board) have given Flintoff a licence. I told the chairman, Charles Giles, that he should be sacked for approving this scandal."

Trained by Barry McGuigan, who became world featherweight champion in 1985, Flintoff will step into the ring at Manchester for the climax of a TV reality show, The Gloves Are Off, which has documented the former cricketer's preparations to fight.


Do you think it's a joke letting non-boxers get in the ring professionally?


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Sonny Bill's future up in the air

Sonny Bill Williams ... it is unclear when he will return to the field or ring. Source: AP

Sonny Bill Williams's recovery from shoulder surgery is progressing as well as hoped but his immediate sporting future remains unclear.

Williams's manager Khoder Nasser said doctors were happy with his client's progress since undergoing surgery on a minor pectoral muscle tear on October 31, but couldn't confirm when the dual international would be fully fit again.

The nature of the injury could yet rule out Williams for the remainder of the Japanese rugby season which concludes at the end of January.

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But he is likely to be fit again to fight South African Francois Botha in Brisbane in mid-February before his much anticipated return to rugby league with Sydney Roosters.

"He is recovering well, but because of where the injury is and how the arm is used in boxing as opposed to rugby these are the things we still have to work through to understand when he will be fit again," Nasser told AAP.

"You use the arm and muscle differently in each sport and with the doctors we are looking at data from other athletes who have suffered similar injuries to see what the recovery timetable is."

The Williams camp is confident of announcing a new date for the rescheduled fight with Botha in the coming days, Nasser said.

And while the injury may preclude Williams from returning to play with the Panasonic Wild Knights in Japan, it is unlikely to affect his much hyped return to the NRL with the Roosters.

The NRL is yet to officially release its 2013 draw, but with the Roosters pencilled in to kick off the season with a match against arch-rivals South Sydney on March 7 that would leave Williams little time to get to know his new teammates at Bondi.

"There is a process we are working through," Nasser said.

"Sonny is concentrating on his rehab at the moment and we are confident he will make a full recovery sooner rather than later."


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Defiant Oliver still a winner

Victory ... Damien Oliver wins on Walk with Attitude in the Lexus Hybrid Plate. Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Limited

Embattled Damien Oliver shrugged off speculation over his racing future to ride a winner home at Flemington.

But his win aboard Walk With Attitude could not be replicated in the biggest field of all, when his highly fancied Americain finished 11th in the Melbourne Cup.

His appearance at the Cup was overshadowed by news he had fronted a stewards' panel to answer questions over allegations he bet $10,000 on rival horse Miss Octopussy at Moonee Valley two years ago.

Earlier, in race four, Rose of Peace had to be destroyed after breaking down with Oliver aboard.

His disappointing result in the Cup capped a tumultuous month in which he was interviewed by a panel of stewards over allegations he breached racing rules by betting, through a third person, on a horse he was racing against.

He lost his ride on Green Moon in the Cox Plate after the allegations surfaced.

The inquiry is due to wrap up within days. Oliver has seven rides booked for Oaks Day tomorrow, including Mama's Choice, which he will ride in the main race, the Crown Oaks, for trainer David Hayes.

Oliver yesterday batted off any questions relating to his future or his alleged betting activities.

"It's nice to get a win for (Americain's owner) Gerry (Ryan) before the Melbourne Cup," he said after winning on Walk with Attitude. "I hope I can get a running double for him."

Racing Victoria defended the decision not to suspend Oliver ahead of the Cup, with investigators saying their inquiry was ongoing.

Officials also declined to comment on reports that Oliver had admitted making the bet on Miss Octopussy to stewards.

Publicly, Oliver has neither confirmed nor denied making the bet.

"Stewards are conducting an ongoing investigation into the allegations and as no charges have been laid, it is a matter of procedural fairness to allow the jockey to continue riding," a Racing Victoria official said yesterday.

Racing Minister Denis Napthine's spokesman Mark Lee said the Government would not make any legislative changes until a report by the Racing Integrity Commissioner about alleged race fixing is released.

"The Government is awaiting the outcome of the Racing Integrity Commissioner's inquiry and will look to adopt his recommendations where appropriate," Mr Lee said.

The probe was launched amid allegations of misconduct against star jockey Danny Nikolic. Nikolic was suspended as an investigation got under way, but Opposition racing spokesman Martin Pakula said Racing Victoria needed stronger powers.

"It's beyond time for minister Napthine to give (Racing Victoria) the powers they've been calling for for two years now," Mr Pakula said.

It's the third time in as many years that Oliver's spring carnival has been beset with problems.

It has been widely speculated within the industry that Oliver is the first of several jockeys who will be exposed over betting on races.


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Parko, Slater battle for crown

Written By Unknown on Senin, 05 November 2012 | 20.47

Joel Parkinson ... will battle Kelly Slater for the 2012 ASP world title in Hawaii. Source: AFP

Australia's Joel Parkinson and Kelly Slater are set to duel for this year's ASP world surfing title after two contenders stumbled in the penultimate event in California.

Hawaiian John John Florence's hopes were extinguished when he was upset by NSW surfer Matt Wilkinson in the second round of the O'Neill Coldwater Classic at Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz.

And Mick Fanning's chances of claiming a third world title are hanging by a thread after Brazilian Jadson Andre pipped the Australian, also in round two.

Standings leader Parkinson and 11-time world champion Slater are safely through but no matter who banks the most points in California, the season-ending Billabong Pipe Masters in Oahu, Hawaii in December will decide the title.

Slater survived a hard-fought battle with Dusty Payne in the third round to eliminate the chance of Parkinson sewing up the world crown.

"I just can't seem to figure this wave out, Slater said.

"So I better figure something out quick."

Parkinson was far too good for American Nat Young as the 31-year-old Coolangatta natural footer chases his maiden world title after finishing runner-up in 2002, 2004 and 2009.

"I need a win here," Parkinson said.

"It's what I'm striving for and I can't really control what everyone else does, so I'm just worrying about myself."

Fanning's shock 0.06-point defeat by Andre means he'll be relying on Slater and Parkinson no to make the final and will then need to win the Pipe Masters.

Andre was later beaten by 34-year-old Australian veteran Taj Burrow.


Watch all the action from the O'Neill Coldwater Classic at Steamer Lane LIVE on FUEL.


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'The best we've seen Victory'

Goal of the season? ... Marcos Flores finishes off a sublime Victory goal. Source: George Salpigtidis / News Limited

Fox Sports football experts Mark Bosnich and Robbie Slater are joined by Central Coast Mariners defender Patrick Zwaanswijk to review the weekend's A-League action, with Bozza praising Western Sydney Wanderers for getting it right so quickly.

Melbourne Victory 3 defeated Wellington Phoenix 2 at Etihad Stadium

Slater says: That first half was scintillating - the best we've seen the Victory all season. The combination of Guilherme Finkler-Marcos Flores sets up one of the goals of the season. They went in 2-0 and they totally dominated the Wellington Phoenix. It didn't look like the Phoenix were going to be in the game at all in the second half, and it started off that way. They had a bit more possession but in one counter-attack they just never got to grips with the penetration from Archie Thompson and Marco Rojas. Happy 21st birthday for Rojas as Archie's given him two big presents. The travel is a killer for Wellington; I think that may be a factor. They looked very lethargic in the first half. But Jeremy Brockie, wow. That's one of the goal of the season contenders that first one.


Adelaide United 1 defeated Brisbane Roar 0 at Suncorp Stadium

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Bozza says: It was a very good free kick from Vidosic that separated the two sides, although it was a bit fortunate to take a deflection. I was a little bit startled that Rado Vidosic said at the end of the game that Adelaide's early goal 'pretty much killed us'. In past seasons, that for me would have inspired them. A few problems up there for Vidosic. The Roar aren't playing at the same tempo and the same pace for the whole game, especially in that last third. It's very, very important, especially when you play the ball around like the Roar, that when you're up in that last third you increase the tempo because there's some very good defences in the A-League and they'll be comfortable if the Roar don't play with more pace. The tackle on Berisha wasn't a penalty.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: Brisbane had plenty of chances. They created a lot but they didn't have that many shots on goal. The Roar copped an early goal and then Adelaide dropped behind the ball and defended in numbers and the Roar need to be prepared for that because that's what sides will try to do once they get a lead.


Perth Glory 3 defeated Newcastle Jets 2 at NiB Stadium

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Bozza says: Fantastic game. I think it was the game of the round. I think Van Egmond would be disappointed the Jets didn't at least pick up a point out of it. I thought they deserved a point. Both sides really had a go at each other. The Jets had enough chances not only to get a point, but probably to win the game and they came away with nothing. It was another really exciting game. Perth came back really well from last week's disappointment against Sydney. You can understand exactly where Van Egmond was coming from, saying he was pleased with the performance, but I think he wouls have had a quiet word to his players to say he was disappointed they didn't at least get a draw.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: Perth always give 100 per cent and are a very good team. If you can go with them and match them physically you can pick up the three points but the Glory always give it all in that respect.


Western Sydney Wanderers 2 defeated Melbourne Heart 1 at Parramatta Stadium

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Bozza says: The Wanderers are going really well and it was great to see them get their first win in front of their home fans. There's a bit of talk about their attack not being good enough but I don't see any need for them to change the way they play. Why fix something that's not broken? They didn't win for their first three games but they only really needed to give it a slight tweak, which they did. Poppa's made it very clear he's going to build his side from the back. And his triumvirate of the goalkeeper and two central defenders have been outstanding. They're starting to really come in to their own. If they could add perhaps a little bit more quality up front - maybe a striker or a wide man - just to help their squad depth, they're going to be a real threat. I believe that. Joey Gibbs has been excellent since he's come in. He can hold the ball up, he's mobile and he adds another dimension to their play.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: We don't have to keep talking about the Wanderers as a young side because there's a salary cap and there's only a few clubs with a bit of extra money that go outside that. They've got Aaron Mooy and Shinji Ono, who control the team well, they're defensively hard to break down, they've got experienced players at the back and experienced players at the front. So, yeah, they're a young team but the players within the team have got experience.


Central Coast Mariners 7 defeated Sydney FC 2 at Bluetongue Stadium

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Bozza says: Ian Crook said last night that his players didn't lack heart, well I'm not sure based on that game that he should have said that. It's not good enough. Sydney's one of the truly big clubs in this country, and I mean that judging by support and success, and they can not continue to serve that up to supporters and expect them to keep coming back watching and paying their hard earned money. They've got a massive job this week to show they can come back from this.

Watch the A-League, Live and Exclusive, and in stunning High Definition, on Fox Sports!


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Malthouse gets to work at Blues

Mick Malthouse ... targets big things for young midfielder Bryce Gibbs. Source: Chris Scott / News Limited

New Carlton coach Mick Malthouse has already enjoyed an up-close glimpse of what Bryce Gibbs could deliver in the AFL.

Malthouse has great expectations for the 2006 No.1 draft pick, who was a big disappointment for the Blues as they dropped out of the top eight to 10th this season.

There is a sense that Gibbs' career has stalled, with the highly-rated player having minimal impact across half-back.

Two years ago, Malthouse coached Gibbs during Australia's International Rules tour of Ireland and came away a big fan of the utility.

"He was simply outstanding over there," Malthouse said.

"Let me say, there wasn't any `good' - he was outstanding.

"So I know his capabilities.

"He has to be thrown the ball and (we) say `right, now you have to run with it'."

Malthouse also made it clear that he sees Gibbs as a midfielder, first and foremost.

"I'd like to think he's going to be playing in the middle, but it's coupled with half-back and half-forward," Malthouse said.

"He certainly has to come up that next level.

"There's 20 minutes there (each quarter) - he has to be able to do eight to 10 minutes and that's quite significant.

"That takes half a quarter away from others, to give them a little bit of relief and also be able to play in other positions, which I'm pretty keen to do."

Malthouse took charge of Carlton training for the first time on Monday, a month after the tumultuous end to this season.

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The Blues sacked Brett Ratten before their last match and soon after appointed Malthouse, the three-time AFL premiership coach.

Carlton were keen to recruit Collingwood key forward Travis Cloke, but once he re-signed with Malthouse's old club they had a minimal role in the trade period.

That reflects Malthouse's confidence that this group has plenty to offer.

"Any club who finishes outside the eight have a fair bit of work to make up,'' he said.

"But you know what's on our side? History.

"No eight has ever stayed the same and I'm a great believer in history.

"That gives any side outside the eight great buoyancy to go forward.''

"The side has the mechanics to be a good football side.

The first impressions have been encouraging for Malthouse in his fourth AFL senior coaching assignment.

"I've been very, very happy with what I've seen," he said.

The Blues will soon have a pre-season training camp in Arizona, where Malthouse and his players will start learning more about each other.

The players also have to elect their leadership group, with Malthouse saying current captain Chris Judd had to decide whether he wants to retain the role.

Meanwhile, Carlton announced on Monday that former Melbourne captain Brad Green had joined them as a midfield development coach.


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Clarke's keys to succes this summer

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Big challenge ... the summer has got tougher for Clarke due to Watson's injury. Source: Andres Leighton / News Limited

Michael Clarke is in his second year as Australia's Test captain and after an excellent last Australian summer against India, his biggest challenge as a leader looms.

The World No.1 South Africa Test side looks to be at the peak of their powers and it will take a monumental effort for the Aussies to stop them, even on home soil.

So what does Clarke see as the keys to success against the Proteas.

In an exclusive one-on-one with Fox Sports cricket expert Mark Waugh for Inside Cricket, Clarke revealed what he sees as the keys to success.


Click on the video at the top of the page for all Clarke's insights on his biggest challenge as Australia's Test skipper yet.


On the challenges of South Africa ...

"There's no coincidence they're the number one side in the world. We had a really good summer last summer but I think the most important thing for us is to maintain that consistency. We speak a lot about that. Playing in your own backyard certainly helps ... but as we know, last time South Africa came to Australia they beat us, so we need to keep that consistency we took out of last summer against India and hopefully perform well."

How to become the benchmark? ...

"If we beat South Africa, we're the number one Test team in the world. The hardest thing about beating South Africa in these conditions is that they know them so well, because it's similar to back home. I think it's going to be a real battle in each Test match. The batters will need to play really well because I think the team that bats the best against two very good fast bowling oppositions, I think will have the most success in this series."

What can the Proteas hurt Australia with? ...

"South Africa have got a really good attack. They've got Philander, who with the new ball can swing the ball away, but generally brings the ball back in to the right-hander off the wicket. Dale Steyn has obviously been very successful over a long period of time. He bowls good pace, fast outswing. And then Morne Morkel who's a lot taller, I think he's about 6'7'', and he hits the deck hard and brings it back in to the right hander as well. It's a very good attack, they complement each other because they're all different."

Can success happen with a rotation policy? ...

"It's about each individual. Our goals don't change. We're trying to win every game we play for Australia, whether it's a Test match, T20 or a one-dayer. We're very lucky that we've got good stock so that if one bowler or one batter misses out, we're confident we can fill that role and have success. So I think when we talk about rotation policy, it's about each individual and assessing the right workloads and management for that player, so the team can have the most success. Pat Howard, John Inverarity and Mickey Arthur have got one eye on the future. There's always a lot of talk about the Ashes. But as a playing group we just focus on what's ahead of us."

Have we made our task more difficult without Haddin? ...

"It's going to be tough because he's such a good player but unfortunately we can only have one wicketkeeper. As captain, no decision I make as a selector will ever be personal. It's always about what's in the best interests of the team. I've spoken to Hadds and he understands that and respects that." 


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'If it ain't broke, why fix it?'

Written By Unknown on Minggu, 04 November 2012 | 20.47

Pandemonium ... Wanderers supporters were delighted with their side's first home win. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Limited

Fox Sports football expert Mark Bosnich is joined by Central Coast Mariners defender Patrick Zwaanswijk to review the weekend's A-League action, with Bozza praising Western Sydney Wanderers for getting it right so quickly.

Adelaide United 1 defeated Brisbane Roar 0 at Suncorp Stadium

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Bozza says: It was a very good free kick from Vidosic that separated the two sides, although it was a bit fortunate to take a deflection. I was a little bit startled that Rado Vidosic said at the end of the game that Adelaide's early goal 'pretty much killed us'. In past seasons, that for me would have inspired them. A few problems up there for Vidosic. The Roar aren't playing at the same tempo and the same pace for the whole game, especially in that last third. It's very, very important, especially when you play the ball around like the Roar, that when you're up in that last third you increase the tempo because there's some very good defences in the A-League and they'll be comfortable if the Roar don't play with more pace. The tackle on Berisha wasn't a penalty.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: Brisbane had plenty of chances. They created a lot but they didn't have that many shots on goal. The Roar copped an early goal and then Adelaide dropped behind the ball and defended in numbers and the Roar need to be prepared for that because that's what sides will try to do once they get a lead.


Perth Glory 3 defeated Newcastle Jets 2 at NiB Stadium

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Bozza says: Fantastic game. I think it was the game of the round. I think Van Egmond would be disappointed the Jets didn't at least pick up a point out of it. I thought they deserved a point. Both sides really had a go at each other. The Jets had enough chances not only to get a point, but probably to win the game and they came away with nothing. It was another really exciting game. Perth came back really well from last week's disappointment against Sydney. You can understand exactly where Van Egmond was coming from, saying he was pleased with the performance, but I think he wouls have had a quiet word to his players to say he was disappointed they didn't at least get a draw.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: Perth always give 100 per cent and are a very good team. If you can go with them and match them physically you can pick up the three points but the Glory always give it all in that respect.


Western Sydney Wanderers 2 defeated Melbourne Heart 1 at Parramatta Stadium

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Bozza says: The Wanderers are going really well and it was great to see them get their first win in front of their home fans. There's a bit of talk about their attack not being good enough but I don't see any need for them to change the way they play. Why fix something that's not broken? They didn't win for their first three games but they only really needed to give it a slight tweak, which they did. Poppa's made it very clear he's going to build his side from the back. And his triumvirate of the goalkeeper and two central defenders have been outstanding. They're starting to really come in to their own. If they could add perhaps a little bit more quality up front - maybe a striker or a wide man - just to help their squad depth, they're going to be a real threat. I believe that. Joey Gibbs has been excellent since he's come in. He can hold the ball up, he's mobile and he adds another dimension to their play.

Patrick Zwaanswijk says: We don't have to keep talking about the Wanderers as a young side because there's a salary cap and there's only a few clubs with a bit of extra money that go outside that. They've got Aaron Mooy and Shinji Ono, who control the team well, they're defensively hard to break down, they've got experienced players at the back and experienced players at the front. So, yeah, they're a young team but the players within the team have got experience.


Central Coast Mariners 7 defeated Sydney FC 2 at Bluetongue Stadium

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Bozza says: Ian Crook said last night that his players didn't lack heart, well I'm not sure based on that game that he should have said that. It's not good enough. Sydney's one of the truly big clubs in this country, and I mean that judging by support and success, and they can not continue to serve that up to supporters and expect them to keep coming back watching and paying their hard earned money. They've got a massive job this week to show they can come back from this.

Watch the A-League, Live and Exclusive, and in stunning High Definition, on Fox Sports!


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Bozza's Save of the Week, R5

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Eugene Galekovic ... pulled off a stunning reflex save against Brisbane Roar. Source: Tim Marsden / AAP

Adelaide United produced a fine defensive performance to defeat Brisbane Roar 1-0 on Sunday and go top of the A-League.

No one was more impressive at the back than Reds shot-stopper Eugene Galekovic, who gets the gong for Bozza's Save of the Week for Round Five.


Click on the video at the top to see the block Bozza nominated as Save of the Week and tune in to Sunday Shootout on Fox Sports 1HD every Sunday for analysis of every round of A-League.


Although there were a number of worthy entries in round five, Bozza was of the view that Galekovic deserved the award for his outstanding reflex stop to deny Eric Paartalu's point-blank header when the Roar started to pile on the pressure in the second half.

"He was absolutely outstanding," Bosnich said of the  veteran goalkeeper.

"That save was as good as any you will see over the whole weekend in world football.

"His initial position was out and it made him recover. It's what we call a miracle save."

At the end of each round of A-League action, Fox Sports Football expert Mark Bosnich will nominate his Save of the Week on Sunday Shootout.


Did you think Galekovic's save was the best from all the games in A-League round five? Leave a comment below to have your say on Bozza's pick!


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