Wayne Rooney: England Record is 'Dream Come True'

Wayne Rooney said it was a "dream come true" to break Sir Bobby Charlton's England goalscoring record and set his sights on adding to his total.

The 29-year-old Manchester United striker's penalty in the 2-0 win over Switzerland in a Euro 2016 qualifier took his tally to 50 goals.

"It's a great feeling," he said. "I've been close for the last few games and it's a dream come true.

"I've got a lot of football in me for England. I hope the goals don't stop."

The spot-kick was awarded late in the game when Raheem Sterling was fouled in the area by Granit Xhaka.

Rooney, who scored his first England goal against Macedonia in 2003, told BBC Radio 5 live: "It's a very special night for me and my family. A night I will never forget.

"I was very nervous stepping up to take the penalty. I knew it was such a big moment for me and my career. The players said to me afterwards it was like being at a concert because there were so many flashes from phones in the crowd.

"It's a huge honour because Sir Bobby Charlton is an England and Manchester United legend. I know Sir Bobby will be extremely proud that a Manchester United captain has broken the record."

The striker was handed a commemorative England shirt by boss Roy Hodgson in the dressing room after the match, and made a speech in front of his colleagues.

"Nights like this you don't forget," he added. "When you create a bit of history it's a great feeling. It was really nice of the players and the manager to present me with a shirt afterwards."

Rooney: This is a night I'll never forget

An emotional Wayne Rooney reflected on his England goal-scoring record in an exclusive radio interview with 5 live Sport.

The Manchester United striker converted the 50th goal of his international career during England's 2-0 win over Switzerland at Wembley to surpass Sir Bobby Charlton's long-standing record.

Rooney's goal from the penalty spot doubled England's lead after Harry Kane broke the deadlock midway through the second half.

But Rooney, who was greeted back into the dressing room to a standing ovation, admitted that surpassing the record was a very proud moment.

"It's a very special night for me and my family. It's a night I'll never forget," Rooney said speaking to 5 live's Chief Football Reporter Ian Dennis.

He added: "It's a huge honour - Sir Bobby is a legend. I know he'll be extremely happy and proud that it's a Manchester United captain who has done it.

"It's nights like this that you don't forget - when you do create a bit of history it's a great feeling and a special moment."

This clip was first broadcast on 5 live Sport on 08 September 2015.

Wayne Rooney made history by breaking Sir Bobby Charlton's all-time England goalscoring record in the Euro 2016 qualifier against Switzerland at Wembley.

England captain Rooney equalled Charlton's tally of 49 with a penalty in the victory against San Marino on Saturday that ensured a place in France next summer.

And he was on the spot again late on in Tuesday's match against the Swiss for goal number 50 to erase a record that has stood for 45 years.

It looked like Rooney might be made to wait until England's meeting with Estonia at Wembley next month as Switzerland frustrated Roy Hodgson's side until their resistance was eventually broken.

England substitute Harry Kane pierced the deadlock with a crisp finish after 67 minutes and Rooney rewrote the record books with a thunderous penalty six minutes from time, earning a standing ovation from the Wembley gallery.

It ensured his side completed eight wins out of eight, securing top spot in Group E.
(source: http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/)

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Yankees Lose Nathan Eovaldi For At Least Two Weeks

 New York Yankees pitcher Nathan Eovaldi, center, and teammates watch the home run hit by New York Yankees designated hitter Alex Rodriguez during the sixth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays in a baseball game at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 6, 2015. Photo Credit: Kathleen Malone-Van Dyke

The Yankees won Monday, which they've done quite a bit of lately, but lost a pitcher.

After the Yankees downed the Orioles, 8-6, at the Stadium came the news that righthander Nathan Eovaldi, the club's most consistent pitcher since mid-June, will be shut down for at least the next two weeks with right elbow inflammation.

WFAN radio first reported the news early Monday night and the Yankees later confirmed it.

In a release, the club said Eovaldi was evaluated earlier in the day by team physician Christopher Ahmad at New York-Presbyterian Hospital and that a subsequent MRI revealed the inflammation.

Eovaldi, who was scheduled to start Friday against Toronto, is 14-3 with a 4.20 ERA but 9-1 with a 3.43 ERA since June 20. He leads the Yankees in victories, innings (1541/3) and starts (27).

It was not immediately clear when Eovaldi, whose fastball consistently is clocked in the range of 98 to 100 mph, told the Yankees his elbow was bothering him. General manager Brian Cashman did not immediately return a call for comment.

In Eovaldi's last outing Saturday against Tampa Bay, he suffered his first defeat since June 16 when he allowed three runs in 51/3 innings in a 3-2 loss. He walked four, his most walks in a game since walking that many June 5 against Anaheim, but did not complain, at least publicly, of any pain or discomfort.

With CC Sabathia scheduled to come off the disabled list Wednesday and start against the Orioles, the Yankees -- currently four games into a stretch of 13 straight games and a half-game behind the AL East-leading Blue Jays -- had been planning to use a six-man rotation to give each starter some extra rest. For now, they are back to five starting Tuesday night, when Masahiro Tanaka takes the mound against the Orioles. (source: http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees)

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Grand Opening: College Football Starts, PlayOff Talk Begins

With little competition right before the baseball pennant races heat up and the middle weekend of U.S. Open tennis, college football opens with a long holiday weekend of games, concluding with No. 1 Ohio State trying to avenge its last loss at Virginia Tech on Labor Day night.

True, many of the matchups are of the hammer vs. nail variety, with Power Five teams facing low-level Group of Five foes. Or those FBS vs. FCS matchups, which produce about 10 blowouts for every upset (Villanova over UConn if you're looking for an FCS upset).

But there are plenty of enticing matchups in Week 1. And even in this playoff era where second chances are more plentiful, one loss can be one too many. Just ask TCU and Baylor.


We start the season by introducing a new feature to the picks, reaching into the Twitter bag to answer a few questions from readers and take requests on games to pick outside the Top 25:

Q: How bad is the Illinois job? — @BSargentOKC

A: My perception of Illinois is a program that should be more successful than it is. That if it can just get the right coach it should be able to match the type of success Iowa has had through the years. Hawkeyes fans may be tired of Kirk Ferentz, but if you offered Illinois fans 12 bowl games and four double-digit-win seasons in 14 years, I'd bet most would sign up.

The reality is during the 17 seasons Ferentz has been at Iowa, Illinois has had five winning seasons and won more than seven games three times — which strongly suggests there is more than just a coach problem in Champaign.

Q: What are the chances there will be four or more undefeated teams at season's end? — @Jamie_crane

A: An unbeaten team from one of the Power Five conferences not getting into the College Football Playoff would almost certainly create the greatest outcry and calls to expand it.

The good news for the selection committee is the odds are stacked against that happening. During the 12-year BCS era, only twice (2004 and '09) did more than four teams go into the bowls unbeaten, and never were the five teams from what we now consider the Power Five (Big Ten, Big 12, Atlantic Coast Conference, Pac-12 and Southeastern Conference).

Q: Sleeper team to make a push for the CFB playoff? — @SydneyCarton1

A: Defining a dark horse is the first step.

We'll make the line outside the AP preseason top 15 for this discussion and offer up Oklahoma. The Sooners are coming in with relatively low expectations after sinking to 8-5 last season. The combination of new quarterback Baker Mayfield and new offensive coordinator Lincoln Riley should drastically improve the passing game. The running game with Samaje Perine is already strong. The pass defense needs to be better, but I have a hard time buying that the Sooners are simply no match for TCU and Baylor in the Big 12.

The picks:

THURSDAY

No. 2 TCU (minus 14 1/2) at Minnesota

Gophers could use some snow to slow down the Horned Frogs. Forecast calls for a low of 70 degrees. ... TCU 34-17.

FRIDAY

No. 5 Michigan State (minus 18) at Western Michigan

Broncos coach and Illinois native P.J. Fleck seems like a logical choice to become the next Illini coach, regardless of whether he can upset the Spartans. ... MICHIGAN STATE 38-14.

Washington (plus 12) at No. 23 Boise State

Chris Petersen returns to Idaho to find the team he left is better than the one he now coaches ... BOISE STATE 28-10.

SATURDAY

MARQUEE MATCHUPS

No. 3 Alabama (minus 10) vs. No. 20 Wisconsin at Arlington, Texas

Who plays quarterback for the Tide? Against the Badgers and their rebuilt lines, it might not matter ... Best bet, ALABAMA 31-13

No. 6 Auburn (minus 10 1/2) vs. Louisville at Atlanta

Tigers hope this will be one of two games for them this season in the Georgia Dome, home of the SEC championship ... AUBURN 33-20.

Texas (plus 10) at No. 11 Notre Dame

The Longhorns' depth chart is loaded with freshmen. That might bode well for the future, but not for this trip to South Bend, Indiana ... NOTRE DAME 28-14.

No. 15 Arizona State (plus 3) vs. Texas A&M at Houston

Pac-12 South vs. SEC West. The College Football Playoff selection committee should pay particular attention ... ARIZONA STATE 35-31.

VERNON BOWL

Eastern Washington (no line) at No. 7 Oregon

New Ducks QB Vernon Adams faces his old team in one of the oddest FBS-FCS matchups ever ... OREGON 45-21.

POWER FIVE CROSSOVERS

Virginia (plus 19 1/2) at No. 13 UCLA

Freshman QB Josh Rosen leads the Bruins ... UCLA 30-14.

No. 21 Stanford (minus 12) at Northwestern

Smart football ... STANFORD 24-20.

PLUCKY UNDERDOG

Bowling Green (plus 20 1/2) at No. 25 Tennessee at Nashville

The Falcons high-speed, Baylor-style spread will try to get the Vols into track meet ... TENNESSEE 45-24.

TWITTER REQUESTS

Michigan (plus 5 1/2) at Utah, Thursday night

The Harbaugh era has been a blast for Michigan fans so far. Now a dose of reality ... UTAH 23-14.

Penn State (minus 7) at Temple

Nittany Lions only road game until mid-October is in Philadelphia ... PENN STATE 23-14.

BYU (plus 7) at Nebraska

Upset special: We'll see how much Huskers fans love new coach Mike Riley after Taysom Hill and the Cougars come to town ... Upset special, BYU 31-24.

Georgia Southern (plus 19 1/2) at West Virginia

The Eagles looked like a trendy upset pick until QB Kevin Ellison was suspended ... WEST VIRGINIA 35-28.

MISMATCHES

Arkansas State (plus 27) at No. 8 Southern California ... USC 49-20.

Louisiana-Monroe (plus 35) at No. 9 Georgia ... GEORGIA 45-7.

Texas State (plus 29) at No. 10 Florida State .... FLORIDA STATE 48-17.

UTEP (plus 33) at No. 18 Arkansas ... ARKANSAS 52-10.

Akron (plus 31 1/2) at No. 19 Oklahoma ... OKLAHOMA 49-10.

MONDAY NIGHT MAIN EVENT

No. 1 Ohio State (minus 11) at Virginia Tech

So much intrigue about which quarterback starts for the Buckeyes, but the question is can the Hokies feisty defense provide some real drama for the defending national champions? ... OHIO STATE 27-17.
(source : http://www.wiscnews.com By RALPH D. RUSSO)

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Wayne Rooney Goes Joint Top of England Goalscoring Chart

England confirmed their place at Euro 2016 after a routine dismissal of San Marino - but captain Wayne Rooney must wait to eclipse Sir Bobby Charlton's all-time goals tally.

Rooney scored a record-equalling 49th goal with an early penalty but was surprisingly substituted by England manager Roy Hodgson with history beckoning and the San Marino defence out on its feet. He must now try again against Switzerland at Wembley on Tuesday.

There was still plenty for England to celebrate, though, as they made it seven wins out of seven in qualifying to ensure they will be in France next summer.

England were never under threat and it was another damage limitation exercise for San Marino, especially after Cristian Brolli headed into his own net before half-time.

Ross Barkley nodded in his first England goal after the break and England romped clear with two goals from substitute Theo Walcott and Harry Kane's clever lofted finish.

Rooney made to wait

There was general astonishment - probably shared by Rooney himself - when he was substituted after 58 minutes needing just one goal to beat Charlton's record.

Rooney will surpass the former Manchester United player's mark eventually and perhaps it will be more fitting should he seal it against Switzerland at Wembley on Tuesday rather than this quaint 6,600-capacity arena with many fans getting a free view from the hills that rise up at one end of the stadium.

It looked like the record was there for the taking when Rooney tucked away that early penalty but he had no further clear chances - although one would surely have come against a home defence that was exhausted in the last 25 minutes. 

 

How the fresh faces fared

England manager Roy Hodgson gave opportunities to players in the relatively sedate surroundings of San Marino and one man in particular took his chance with relish.

Swansea City's Jonjo Shelvey, making his first England appearance in almost three years, was positive in possession, happy to play a deeper role but also willing to get forward and show his range of passing. He capped his performance by making the fifth goal for substitute Kane.

He will have created a good impression with Hodgson through his discipline and work-rate and can feel he has worked his way back into the England fold.

Barkley also made his mark with a neatly-taken header from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's cross as well as a few trademark moments of quality.

It was a tougher night for Leicester City's Jamie Vardy, who struggled to get into the action and, for a short while in the second half, became embroiled in a running battle with San Marino defender Giovanni Bonini.

Everton's John Stones, at the centre of so much speculation recently as Chelsea were willing to pay in excess of £30m for his services, had little to do other than handle the unique pressure of ensuring San Marino did not score their first goal of the Euro 2016 qualifiers on his watch. 

Are England in shape for Euro 2016?

Well, they will definitely be there and, as the first team to qualify (hosts France apart) Hodgson has some time for experimentation in the final three qualifiers.

England will not travel to France among the favourites but there is some fine young talent in this squad in the shape of the likes of Barkley, Luke Shaw, Kane, Stones and, of course, Raheem Sterling, who was rested on Saturday.

Hodgson will hope they continue to develop rapidly over the next 12 months alongside established, experienced players such as Rooney.

This should mean England can travel with hope and optimism. But potential winners? That is a long stretch. 

What they said

England striker Wayne Rooney: "It's a proud moment to equal Sir Bobby Charlton's record. My aim is to push on and try and help the team win on Tuesday and break the record.

"It would have been great if the record had happened tonight. Obviously the tradition of Wembley and to break the record at Wembley would be great."

England manager Roy Hodgson: "I am more than satisfied and we won it with a good margin.

"One or two who weren't in contention to play on Tuesday night have pushed their claims and Jonjo Shelvey deserves a mention."

'Hodgson will be delighted'

Former England midfielder Jermaine Jenas on BBC Radio 5 live: "There have been some decent performances from England. Ross Barkley stepped it up in the second half, Nathaniel Clyne bombed up and down the right flank and Jonjo Shelvey has hardly given the ball away.

"England manager Roy Hodgson will be delighted with his team's discipline, energy and professionalism."

The stats you need to know

• England have now won their last six meetings against San Marino, netting 37 goals in the process (6-0, 7-1, 5-0, 8-0, 5-0, 6-0)
• A player from a London club has scored every time England have faced San Marino
• Wayne Rooney has now scored five goals against San Marino, more than he has against any other side in an England shirt

 

(Source:http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football)

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Joachim Loew Demands Tighter Performance From Germany Against Scotland After Downing Poland

Joachim Loew says Germany can improve further in Monday’s Euro 2016 qualifier away to Scotland after Mario Goetze’s goals sealed a 3-1 win over Poland to top their group.

Thomas Mueller gave the hosts an early lead in Frankfurt on Friday and Goetze scored twice as Germany avenged last year’s 2-0 away defeat in Warsaw to replace Poland at the top of group D

All four goals came from Bayern Munich players as Poland captain Robert Lewandowski pulled one back with a diving header as it finished 2-1 at the break.

Mueller and Goetze then combined for Germany’s third on 82 minutes to kill off hopes of a late Poland equaliser.

“We had one goal, to win the game, that was the most important thing,” said Germany head coach Loew after arguably his side’s best display since winning the 2014 World Cup.

 

“All in all, we can be very happy, the team were very focused over long stretches, but the chances Poland had came from our mistakes.

“It will be a different type of game against Scotland, much tighter and we have areas to improve.”

It was Poland’s first defeat in seven Euro 2016 qualifiers in an impressive display from the Germans after several below-par performances last season.

Scotland’s 1-0 defeat away by Georgia saw them drop to fourth in the table with Germany top on 16 points, Poland now second on 14 while Ireland go third with 12, one ahead of the Scots.

But Toni Kroos echoed Loew’s sentiments ahead of Germany’s next qualifier at Glasgow’s Hampden Park.

“It was a deserved win, but on occasion we invited Poland to attack us, which we have to improve,” said the Real Madrid midfielder.

“All in all, it was a good win, but Scotland could be an unpleasant opponent to face [after their defeat] and we’ve been warned.” (Source:http://www.scmp.com/sport/soccer)

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U-M observations: Offense sluggish, defense struggles

Offense sluggish, defense struggles

SALT LAKE CITY -- The biggest question for the Michigan football team in Jim Harbaugh's first game had to wait to be answered.

After Utah marched for a field goal to open tonight's game, U-M fans finally got to see Devin Gardner's successor at starting quarterback … Jake Rudock.

As expected, the Iowa graduate transfer started the game, and his performance was the opposite of what was expected.

Rudock was supposed to be the safe, accurate choice. But by halftime, he had thrown two interceptions and missed a few huge opportunities, leading to the 10-3 halftime deficit.

He was 10-for-17 for 94 yards in the first half.

Junior quarterback Shane Morris, who was battling Rudock for the starting job, did not play in the first half.

The first interception came as U-M was marching on its first drive, with the 10th play being a third-down miscommunication where he threw to a spot and freshman receiver Grant Perry turned the opposite way. In the second quarter, he had another issue with Perry, on a deep out down the right sideline and threw it right to the Utah defender. Two interceptions in 17 attempts after having just five last year in more than 340 at Iowa.

That was enough to sour fans on Rudock. But he also blew the few chances he had for explosion plays.

Twice he had Jehu Chesson, one of the fastest Wolverines, streaking down the sideline, alone and open for a touchdown. Both times he overthrew Chesson by at least five yards.

25 signs you're a die-hard Michigan football fan

There were a few longer plays, leaning on tight end Jake Butt, but they had no impact as U-M went to the half 2-for-7 on third down.

(Source:http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/university-michigan)
Expectations were that the veteran offensive line, with a new line coach in Tim Drevno, would transform the running game.

But although four U-M four running backs got a first-half carry — plus fullback Joe Kerridge — none of them went for more than five yards.

It looked awfully familiar to 2014, even with a different coach and quarterback.

The defense carried the Wolverines, getting pressure up front with six tackles for loss, three from Chris Wormley.

As bad as U-M was on offense, the Utes looked worse, going just 2-for-9 in the first half on third down. Though they had big turnovers, they couldn't finish.

Their only touchdown came on a drive where U-M redshirt freshman safety Jabrill Peppers struggled. Hailed as a possible breakout player on defense, Peppers was burned in coverage twice, including the pass to the one-yard line, setting up the one-yard score and Utah's 10-3 lead with 10:33 to play before halftime.

The specialists were Kenny Allen for kickoffs and field goals – he hit a 29-yarder in his first attempt – and Blake O'Neill dropped a beautiful pooch punt inside the five-yard line, pinning Utah deep.

But with a sluggish offense and a defense forced to carry them, the Wolverines looked familiar, which was the worst result. (Source:http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/university-michigan)

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Tim Lincecum has possibly thrown his last pitch for the Giants

Big League Stew

San Francisco Giants righty Tim Lincecum will miss the rest of the season following hip surgery. Team general manager Bobby Evans confirmed the news to KNBR on Thursday morning.

Lincecum hasn't pitched for the club since June 27. He left that start after being hit in the forearm with a line drive. As Lincecum was recovering from that injury, he was diagnosed with a degenerative hip condition. He reportedly suffered a setback recently, which led Lincecum to seek a second opinion on his hips. It was recommended that he undergo surgery to fix the issue.


Further complicating issues is the fact that Lincecum is in the final year of his contract. In a little more than a month, he'll officially be a free agent. Given his recent struggles, and now this injury, it's possible that Lincecum's time as a member of the Giants has come to an end.

If so, that would be sad. Lincecum hasn't been a top of the line starter since 2011, but, boy, his peak seasons were incredible. After an average debut in 2007, Lincecum exploded onto the scene during his sophomore season.

He instantly became one of the best, and one of the most entertaining, starters in the game. Despite his size, Lincecum pumped a fastball that averaged 94 mph early in his career. His unorthodox, yet strangely beautiful, delivery was delightful to watch. Combine these traits, and it's no surprise Lincecum earned the nickname "The Freak."

The awards speak for themselves. Lincecum won two straight Cy Young Awards during his first two full seasons in the majors. He made the All-Star game four straight years. During that period, Lincecum posted a 2.81 ERA over 881 2/3 innings. He struck out an incredible 977 batters.

Then, injuries and ineffectiveness started to creep in. Lincecum's fastball velocity, which was already declining, averaged just more than 90 mph in 2012. His walk and home-run rate jumped, leading to a 5.18 ERA. Lincecum was somewhat able to salvage his poor season by turning into a relief ace in the playoffs as the Giants won their second World Series championship in three seasons, though.


Since then, he hasn't really been the same. Lincecum's velocity has continued to decline, and he was even briefly sent to the bullpen during the 2014 season. Over the past four seasons, Lincecum has a 4.68 ERA through 615 2/3 innings. He struck out 577 batters during that period.

There have been moments of brilliance, even as he's declined. Lincecum threw two no-hitters during this period. The first came in 2013, while the second happened the following season. Even through his struggles, he still managed to occasionally remind us of his past.

Lincecum's decline would have made him an interesting free agent this offseason. His surgery further complicates matters.

There's some reason for optimism, though. Jon Heyman of CBSSports noted that doctors believe Lincecum's lost velocity could be related to his condition. With surgery, there's a chance that will improve.

"Nonetheless, doctors are said to have told Lincecum that he could easily be ready for next spring training if he had the surgery, and they've further suggested that he should be able to return to form. They also are said to believe that his steep velocity decline is related to his current hip woes. The smallish righthander known as "The Freak" is a pitcher who relies on extraordinary torque and the drive of his legs to generate unreal arm speed for a sub-6-foot pitcher, or any pitcher really"

All of that is encouraging. Lincecum was likely to get an offer merely based on his past upside, but teams will certainly be more interested if he suddenly regains some life on his fastball.

In fairness, none of this means his time with San Francisco has come to an end. But given his current situation, Lincecum is going to hit the market for the first time in his career. While we have no idea what that market will look like, it's certainly possible another team will swoop in and make Lincecum a better offer.

A change of scenery might be for the best, too. Lincecum has spent the past few seasons in San Francisco trying to regain his old form. A fresh start isn't guaranteed to help, but it might provide a mental boost. (Source: by Chris Cwik :http://sports.yahoo.com)

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Venus Williams Beats Back a Challenge From a Plucky American Compatriot

Venus Williams Come Back

The first time Venus Williams served for the match, she double-faulted. Then she double-faulted again. Her opponent, the plucky 25-year-old Irina Falconi, won the break, pumping dim life back into an otherwise ineffective effort.

But the second time Williams served for the match in the second set, losing that game as well, what was looking like a breezy advancement into the third round was turning into a protracted battle.

The momentum carried Falconi to a win in the tiebreaker, sending Williams into a third set for the second time in this United States Open. Williams, a 35-year-old former Open champion, eventually wore down her opponent, 6-3, 6-7 (2), 6-2 on Wednesday at Arthur Ashe Stadium. But the match required 36 additional minutes to complete, adding strain that Williams had opportunities to avoid.

 

 

“A combination of errors,” she said, summarizing what momentarily derailed her performance.

Williams, who is nine inches taller and a decade older than Falconi, moved well, coming to net 36 times, winning nearly a third of her total points. But 47 unforced errors and some struggles with her serve made it a long night.

It was reminiscent of Williams’s first-round match with Monica Puig, which featured Puig fighting off four match points in a second-set tiebreaker before conceding, 6-4, 6-7 (7), 6-3, in the heat Monday afternoon.


Two days later, under the lights, conditions were far more favorable for Williams, who has Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that can sap her energy. A light breeze swept over the arena’s new roof. Williams looked comfortable early, stealing two breaks in the first set.

Falconi, who was raised in New York between the ages of 2 and 14, learning the game on courts in Inwood while attending school in Harlem, has reached no further than the third round here in 2011. But serving for the match in the second set, it was Williams, playing in the 32nd night match in her career at Ashe, who appeared shaky.

Williams twice stuck her second serve into the net for two double faults to begin the game. Three points later, Falconi celebrated as Williams’s forehand sailed wide to drop the game.


That only made the score 5-5. Williams managed to break Falconi’s next service game and give herself a second opportunity to serve for the match. But after Williams took a 30-15 lead, Falconi worked the game to deuce, eventually winning on an eight-shot rally after Williams’ groundstroke sailed long.

“I was really impressed with those drop shot returns off her serve,” Williams said. “It was insane. Just great hands.”

Williams was far more effective with her serve as Falconi began to wear down. After committing 22 unforced errors in the second set, Williams trimmed that number to 10 in the third, with seven winners and 10 points at net. She returned 23 of Falconi’s 24 serves.


Williams, the oldest player in the draw, is trying to last long enough to potentially meet her sister, Serena, in the quarterfinals. (source: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/09/03/sports/tennis)

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Wimbledon champ Kvitova, never a contender in New York, wins easily

Latest on US Open: 2-time Wimbledon champ Kvitova, never a contender in New York, wins easily

The U.S. Open is the only Grand Slam tournament where Petra Kvitova has never reached the semifinals. She has never even been to the quarterfinals at Flushing Meadows. Says she's not a big fan of all the hustle and bustle of the place.

That might be so, but the two-time Wimbledon champion had zero problems in the first round Tuesday night, needing about an hour for a 6-1, 6-1 victory over 126th-ranked Laura Siegemund, a qualifier from Germany.

Kvitova, seeded fifth, arrived in New York coming off a hard-court tuneup title in New Haven, Connecticut, and looked good in the final match of the U.S. Open's first round.

Petra Kvitova, of the Czech Republic, returns a shot to Laura Siegemund, of Germany, during the first round of the U.S. Open tennis tournament in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2015. Kvitova won 6-1, 6-1. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
 

___

10:10 p.m.

Andy Murray was only briefly troubled by Nick Kyrgios in the most-anticipated match of the U.S. Open's first round.

The third-seeded Murray, who won the title at Flushing Meadows in 2012, hit 18 aces and saved 11 of 14 break points en route to 7-5, 6-3, 4-6, 6-1 victory over Kyrgios on Tuesday night.

Murray was mostly steady in the face of Kyrgios' various antics, which included appearing to take a nap during changeovers, smashing his racket and earning a warning from the chair umpire for cursing aloud.

Kyrgios has drawn a lot of unwanted attention lately, stemming from his trash-talking to Stan Wawrinka during a match in Montreal last month. Kyrgios was caught by courtside microphones making a comment about Wawrinka's girlfriend, earning a fine from the ATP, which also put the 20-year-old Australian on six months' probation. That warning applies only to ATP events, though; Grand Slam tournaments such as the U.S. Open are sanctioned by the International Tennis Federation.

___

9:55 p.m.

Even for Nick Kyrgios, this was unusual.

At changeovers while dropping the first two sets of his first-round U.S. Open match against Andy Murray, Kyrgios — a talented and attention-grabbing 20-year-old Australian — leaned back in his chair and rested his head, looking as if he might be ready to take a nap.

He apparently never did fall asleep, though, because he kept playing, well enough to take the third set and force a fourth.

___

7:30 p.m.

More players have stopped playing during matches because of injuries or illness during the first round of the U.S. Open than in any round at any Grand Slam tournament in the professional era.

With the temperature topping 90 degrees, a total of 12 men and women have retired during matches Monday and Tuesday at Flushing Meadows — with the first round still yet to be finished.

The previous mark for most retirements during any round at any major was nine at the 2011 U.S. Open.

Among the 10 men and two women pulling out so far were five retirements Tuesday: Marcos Baghdatis, Ernests Gulbis, Thanasi Kokkinakis, Aleksandr Nedovyesov and Marina Erakovic.

___

6:30 p.m.

Roger Federer gives credit where credit is due.

The 17-time major champion says several past opponents helped him become the player he is.

Federer mentioned Andre Agassi and Lleyton Hewitt as the first to force him to improve.

Those two "really made me feel like a bad baseliner to an extent, until I realized I had to move better and be more consistent, have variation in my game," Federer said after his first-round victory at the U.S. Open on Tuesday.

Federer picked up pointers on serve-and-volley tactics from Pete Sampras and Tim Henman, for example.

And more recently, Rafael Nadal made Federer's backhand better.

"Rafa challenged my backhand the most throughout my career," he said. "I had to return differently every single time I played against him."

___

5:05 p.m.

Victoria Azarenka's been known to flash a temper on court — and it happened again during her first-round victory at the U.S. Open.

This was the testy exchange Tuesday at Louis Armstrong Stadium that Azarenka, a two-time Australian Open champion and two-time U.S. Open runner-up, had with chair umpire Aurelie Tourte:

Azarenka: "Have you ever played tennis?"

Tourte: "Yes."

(Source:http://www.usnews.com/news/sports/)

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Transfer Anthony Martial From Monaco to Machester United for £36m

Manchester United have completed the £36m signing of Monaco forward Anthony Martial, making him the world's most expensive teenage footballer.

The fee could rise to £58m.

France Under-21 international Martial, who scored eight goals in 31 Ligue 1 games last season, signed a four-year deal with the option for a fifth year.

The 19-year-old, who had been linked with Arsenal, becomes United's third most expensive signing after Angel Di Maria (£59.7m) and Juan Mata (£37.1m).

He was allowed to leave the France squad on Monday for a medical with Louis van Gaal's side, who have given him the number nine shirt.

Monaco signed Martial for £4.4m two years ago from Lyon, who will receive about £7.35m as a result of a sell-on clause.

Conditions that would increase the fee include Martial winning the Ballon d'Or award for the world's top footballer.

The previous world record transfer fee for a teenager was £27m, which United paid for Southampton left-back Luke Shaw last summer and Paris St-Germain spent on Roma centre-back Marquinhos in 2013.

His signing came as Premier League spending passed £850m for the first time in a transfer window. 

The Most Expensive Teenagers In World Football 

 

The Biggest Club In The World'

"I am so excited to be joining Manchester United," said Martial. "I have always wanted to play in the Premier League and to join the biggest club in the world is what every young footballer dreams of.


"I am looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and working with Louis van Gaal, who has achieved so much in his career."


Manager Van Gaal said: "Anthony is a naturally talented, young, multi-functional forward with great potential. We have been watching him for a while now and he has developed immensely during his time at Monaco.

"He has all the attributes to become a top football player; however we need to give him time to adjust to his new environment and the rhythm of the Premier League."


Monaco vice-president Vadim Vasilyev said: "We wished to keep him this season but Manchester United made an incredible offer that neither Anthony, nor AS Monaco, could refuse."

Who is Martial?

A France Under-21 international who has just been called up to the senior national team for the first time.

He scored 32 goals in 21 games at youth level for Lyon before breaking into the first team in the 2012-13 season, making three appearances before joining Monaco.

Martial scored two goals in 15 games in his first season at Monaco and 11 in 42 in all competitions last season.

With nine goals, he is the top teenage scorer in Europe's top five leagues since the start of 2014-15. 

In a July 2015 study by the Soccerex 20 Football Value Index,  Martial was ranked the 17th most valuable under-21 player in Europe at £11.6m.

(Source:http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football)

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Crystal Palace Enjoying The Game Away

In The 2015 No Team Has Pocketed More Points In Away Games Than Crystal Palace

In the match of the Barclays Premier League last weekend before the international break in September, some games will not be forgotten just including a victory Crystal Palace at home to Chelsea, West Ham United claim win at the headquarters of Liverpool for the first time since 1963, and Swansea City recorded a victory third straight 2-1 over Manchester United.

source:www.premierleague.com

Vital statistics for the whole of Matchweek 4 see below.

Saturday, August 29th

Newcastle United 0-1 Arsenal

- Arsenal have now won eight Barclays Premier League matches in a row against Newcastle United

- Arsene Wenger has won 10 of 11 meetings with Steve McClaren BPL (Lost 1)


Aston Villa 2-2 Sunderland

- Aston Villa won only one time clean-sheet of 11 last Barclays Premier League match at Villa Park

- Only two teams that conceded more penalties in BPL than Sunderland (six) since the beginning of last season (Tottenham Hotspur: eight; West Bromwich Albion: seven)


AFC Bournemouth 1-1 Leicester City

- AFC Bournemouth Striker Callum Wilson has scored four goals in his last two games BPL

- Jamie Vardy bagged three goals and one assist in his last five appearances in the league


Chelsea 1-2 Crystal Palace

- Overall Chelsea four points is the second lowest in the Barclays Premier League season up to this point, after the team of Blackburn Rovers (three) in the 1995-1996 season

- No team won more points away than Crystal Palace in BPL 2015 (25 - level with Arsenal)



Liverpool 0-3 West Ham United

- Manuel Lanzini goal for West Ham at home to Liverpool was the fastest goal in the Barclays Premier League 2015/16 season so far (2:28)

- This is the first league victory of the Hammers at Anfield since September 1963; end a record 42-match winless streak in major league


Manchester City 2-0 Watford

- Manchester City have become the ninth team to win the Barclays Premier League 10+ games in a row.

- Man City are unbeaten in their last 25 home games against a team in the BPL campaign (won 23, draw 2, Lost 0), where their last defeat was against Reading in February 2007.


Stoke City 0-1 West Bromwich Albion

- Solomon Rondon scored his first Barclays Premier League for West Bromwich Albion from all seven shots (including blocked)

- Two Stoke player sent off in the first round, this is the 10th time in the BPL where a team playing with nine players before halftime. This is the third fastest record, the team reduced to nine men in a single BPL matches (31 minutes)


Tottenham Hotspur 0-0 Everton

- Tottenham Hotspur have failed to win their first four games in the Barclays Premier League for the first time since 2008/09

- Mauricio Pochettino forces recorded 20 shots (including blocked) without netting, the highest record them without yielding a goal since registering 21 goals while against Manchester City in May


Sunday, August 30

Southampton 3-0 Norwich City

- Graziano Pelle has scored five goals in five appearances in the final of the Barclays Premier League St. Mary's Stadium, while 12 of the 14 league goal for Southampton occur at home (86%)

- Alex Neil suffered his first defeat away to Norwich City in 15 away matches in all competitions (won 10, draw 4)


Swansea City 2-1 Manchester United

- Two final defeat of Manchester United in the Barclays Premier League Swansea City occurred after winning first (2-1 in the month of Feb 2015)

Bafetimbi Gomis has scored nine goals in 10 games last BPL, and he was the first Swansea player who scored in each of their opening four games in the Barclays Premier League

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Dancing In The Rain Biritsh MotoGp 2015

The MotoGP™ World Championship has taken a critical turn after the Octo British Grand Prix as Rossi dances to victory.

Rain can produce peculiar results in motorcycle racing; with power more of a disadvantage, in the wet rider skill becomes even more important. Riders such as Chris Vermeulen became famous for their ability in the wet, the loveable Australian claimed his only MotoGP™ win in 2007 at a rain soaked French GP. As electronics have begun to play a bigger role, rain specialists have become a rarer and rarer breed. But racing in the beating rain is by no means easy, as two of the MotoGP™ championship challengers showed on Sunday.

 Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) went to bed on Saturday night performing a rain dance; his dry weather pace was simply not enough to keep with the likes of Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) and teammate Jorge Lorenzo. It seems that even Mother Nature is a Rossi fan as come Sunday morning Warm Up the heavens had opened and Silverstone lived up to Britain’s reputation of rain. Rossi led the session handily, heading, somewhat fortuitously, Danilo Petrucci (Octo Pramac Racing) as both Marquez and Lorenzo struggled.

Come race time, the rain had settled and wet tyres were fitted. Initially Marquez had been able to keep with Rossi, the pair breaking away, but the Spaniard found himself on the floor as he exited Turn 1. This DNF is the final nail in the coffin of Marquez’s 2015 title challenge. He now sits 77 points behind Rossi in the standings and though it is mathematically still possible for Marquez to claim a third MotoGP™ crown, a miracle is needed.

Marquez has never gone particularly well in the wet. Last year at Aragon he crashed while pushing slicks too hard on a track that was becoming colder and wetter with every lap. Back in 2011, Marquez failed to finish the British GP when racing in the Moto2™ class in similar conditions. Compared to Rossi, Marquez is still a relative newcomer to the premier class and wet weather riding is a skill that comes with experience.

As Rossi cruised to victory, Lorenzo was battling vision problems and aggressive riders. Many of Lorenzo’s worse moments, including his famous Assen crash in 2013 that saw his collarbone shatter, have happened in the wet. These problems were made worse by a misting visor and saw Lorenzo miss out on valuable championship points. With a fourth place finish the Majorcan now sits 12 points behind his teammate.

Lorenzo himself admits that he did not have the pace to battle Rossi for the win: “Valentino and Marquez passed me and I was in third position losing time every lap. They had a better pace than me early on in the race and I couldn‘t do anything to follow them.”

Throughout his racing career Lorenzo has shown great mental fortitude, not only in over coming his Assen wet-race demons but also overcoming multiple severe injuries, continuing to push himself to the limit.

A 12-point advantage may seem small, but round 13 of the MotoGP™ World Championship takes place in Misano, Rossi’s backyard. A win and the championship lead will have Rossi on the crest of a wave, able to ride the success and confidence to the Rimini coastline. It will be a make of break round for Jorge Lorenzo, if he can de-throne Rossi at home and stop him from gaining any momentum.

Marquez could still play a significant role in the title battle; he now truly has nothing to lose. As such he can take even more risks, push even closer to the edge in races and no doubt steal race wins. Every point will matter in the title fight between the Yamahas and losing five, or more, to a rogue Honda could be costly. The championship will be decided by a mistake, the only question is who will make the mistake?
(source:www.motogp.com)

Read more  about news motogp :Valentino Rossi Wins In The Wet At Silverstone:British MotoGP

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Valentino Rossi Wins In The Wet At Silverstone:British MotoGP

Valentino Rossi won a rain-soaked British MotoGP at Silverstone to take over at the top of the world championship.

Yamaha rider Rossi, 36, secured his first Silverstone victory ahead of fellow Italian Danilo Petrucci, who claimed his first podium finish.

Rossi's win takes him above Jorge Lorenzo in the standings as he chases a 10th world title.

Defending world champion Marc Marquez started from pole but crashed out.

Marquez's exit, eight laps from the end of the 20-lap race, left Rossi clear at the head of the field and has all but ended the Spaniard's hopes of retaining his title. 

Petrucci cut into the lead on a Pramac Ducati but Rossi showed his mastery of the wet conditions to stay in control and complete his fourth win of the season and collect the 25 points.

Yamaha team-mate Lorenzo finished fourth and now trails Rossi by 12 points with six races remaining.

Works Ducati rider Andrea Dovizioso finished third to complete an all-Italian top three with Britain's Scott Redding the top home rider.

Redding, 22, finished sixth for the Marc VDS Honda team after earlier announcing his move to Pramac for the 2016 season.

The LCR Honda pair of Cal Crutchlow and Jack Miller collided on the third lap to end their races early.

 

How The Race Was Won

Rossi was fastest in the wet warm-up session but started fourth on the grid following a delayed start to the race after the riders had to stop their warm-up lap to switch back to wet tyres.

He passed team-mate and title rival Lorenzo at Village corner and led by the end of lap two.

Rossi and Marquez broke away before Marquez crashed out at Copse on lap 13.

Petrucci was left in second and reduced the gap to just 1.6 seconds with two laps remaining before Rossi responded to a pit message and pulled away again to win by 3.010 seconds.

Britain's Danny Kent, 21, won the Moto3 race to extend his lead at the top of the championship.

He becomes the first British rider to win a lightweight grand prix at Silverstone.

Kent said: "It's the best win of my career. If there's a date on the diary you want to win, it's your home Grand Prix."

British MotoGP results:

1. Valentino Rossi (Italy) Yamaha 46 minutes 15.617 seconds

2. Danilo Petrucci (Italy) Ducati 46:18.627

3. Andrea Dovizioso (Italy) Ducati 46:19.734

4. Jorge Lorenzo (Spain) Yamaha 46:21.343

5. Dani Pedrosa (Spain) Honda 46:26.749

6. Scott Redding (Britain) Honda 46:41.084

7. Bradley Smith (Britain) Yamaha 46:42.334

8. Andrea Iannone (Italy) Ducati 46:45.010

9. Aleix Espargaro (Spain) Suzuki 46:54.432

10. Alvaro Bautista (Spain) Aprilia 46:57.329

11. Maverick Vinales (Spain) Suzuki 47:00.393

12. Nicky Hayden (U.S.) Honda 47:08.106

13. Hector Barbera (Spain) Ducati 47:26.828

14. Mike Di Meglio (France) Ducati 47:30.909

15. Alex de Angelis (San Marino) ART 47:33.480

MotoGP Standings after race 12 of 18:

1. Valentino Rossi (Italy) Yamaha 236

2. Jorge Lorenzo (Spain) Yamaha 224

3. Marc Marquez (Spain) Honda 159

4. Andrea Iannone (Italy) Ducati 150

5. Andrea Dovizioso (Italy) Ducati 120

6. Bradley Smith (Britain) Yamaha 115

7. Dani Pedrosa (Spain) Honda 102

8. Danilo Petrucci (Italy) Ducati 83

9. Pol Espargaro (Spain) Yamaha 81

10. Cal Crutchlow (Britain) Honda 74

11. Maverick Vinales (Spain) Suzuki 67

12. Aleix Espargaro (Spain) Suzuki 60

13. Scott Redding (Britain) Honda 47

14. Yonny Hernandez (Colombia) Ducati 41

15. Hector Barbera (Spain) Ducati 23


(source:http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/motorsport)

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Darryl Dawkins Dies

Former, current NBA players and fans react to Darryl Dawkins' death

Biodata :

Lahir: 11 Januari 1957 (58 tahun), Orlando, Florida, Amerika
Meninggal: 27 Agustus 2015, Allentown, Pennsylvania, Amerika
Tinggi: 2,11 m
Awal karier: 1975
Pasangan: Janice Hoderman (m. 2001), Robbin Thornton (m. 1988–1998), Kelly Barnes Dawkins (m. 1986–1987)
Anak: Alexis Dawkins, Nick Dawkins, Tabitha Dawkins

Darryl Dawkins, known for his backboard-shattering dunks, died Thursday morning at a hospital, according to the Associated Press. Across the NBA, fans, players and his former team remembered the player fondly known as “Chocolate Thunder.”

“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Darryl Dawkins, who succumbed today to a heart attack. Darryl touched the hearts and spirits of so many with his big smile and personality, ferocious dunks, but more than anything, his huge, loving heart. His family, wife Janice, children Dara, Tabitha, Nicholas and Alexis, along with countless family, friends, and fans, all mourn his loss,” his family wrote in a statement. “More than anything Darryl accomplished in his basketball career as the inimitable ‘Chocolate Thunder,’ he was most proud of his role and responsibility as a husband and father. We ask that the public please respect our privacy as we grieve his loss.”

Said Nets general manager Billy King: “So sad to hear of the passing of Darryl Dawkins. We loss one of the all time great guys. He will be missed by so many. R.I.P..”

Source : http://ftw.usatoday.com

“The Sixers family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of an absolute legend, Darryl Dawkins. We’ve lost a dear friend and an iconic figure, both on and off the court,” 76ers CEO Scott O’Neil added in a statement. “We remember fondly not only his thunderous dunks, but more importantly his powerful presence and personality. Simply put, Darryl Dawkins was beloved—by his family, friends, former teammates and his fans all over the globe. His endearing charm, infectious smile and unparalleled sense of humor will be sorely missed. ‘Chocolate Thunder’ will always have a special place in our hearts. His family is in our thoughts and prayers.”

1:45 PM PT -- Darryl's family says he died from a heart attack today. In a statement they said, "More than anything Darryl accomplished in his basketball career ... he was most proud of his role and responsibility as a husband and father."

1:20 PM PT -- A rep for the Sixers tells us ... "We’ve lost a dear friend and an iconic figure, both on and off the court. We remember fondly not only his thunderous dunks, but more importantly his powerful presence and personality. Simply put, Darryl Dawkins was beloved—by his family, friends, former teammates and his fans all over the globe."

The rep added, "Chocolate Thunder will always have a special place in our hearts.  His family is in our thoughts and prayers.”

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Champions League Draw 2015

The UEFA Champions League group stage draw :

Group A:	Group B:
Paris(FRA) Real Madrid(ESP) Shakhtar Donetsk(UKR) Malmö(SWE)	PSV(NED) Man. United(ENG) CSKA Moskva(RUS) Wolfsburg(GER)
Group C:	Group D:
Benfica(POR) Atlético(ESP) Galatasaray(TUR) Astana(KAZ)	Juventus(ITA) Man. City(ENG) Sevilla(ESP) Mönchengladbach(GER)
Group E:	Group F:
Barcelona(ESP) Leverkusen(GER) Roma(ITA) BATE(BLR)	Bayern(GER) Arsenal(ENG) Olympiacos(GRE) Dinamo Zagreb(CRO)
Group G:	Group H:
Chelsea(ENG) Porto(POR) Dynamo Kyiv(UKR) M. Tel-Aviv(ISR)	Zenit(RUS) Valencia(ESP) Lyon(FRA) Gent(BEL)

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