[ad_1]
Arsene Wenger suggested Germany experienced an early World Cup exit due to ‘political demonstration’ distractions
[ad_2]
Tag: live
-
Eddie Jones: ‘Sad’ Sir Clive Woodward hasn’t a lot to do with his life if he’s criticising me as England coach
[ad_1]
“I feel sad for him [Woodward]. If that is the best thing he has to do in his life, then he hasn’t a lot to do. After this, I want to do something really meaningful. I’ve enjoyed England, it was a bit of a rescue job, now rebuilding. I will leave things in good shape” – Eddie Jones
Last Updated: 01/12/22 7:55pm
England’s Eddie Jones has hit back at Sir Clive Woodward, saying he feels sad for him and quipping: ‘He hasn’t a lot to do’
Eddie Jones has hit back at “sad” critic Sir Clive Woodward and insisted he will leave England “in good shape” when he eventually departs.
Jones is under pressure after he watched his side conclude a dismal Autumn Nations series with a 27-13 loss to South Africa, who were without their European-based players but still inflicted a sixth defeat of 2022 on their hosts at Twickenham.
It completed the nation’s worst year since 2008 and the Rugby Football Union is now conducting a review, which will inevitably decide if Jones continues until next year’s World Cup.
Sir Clive Woodward, England’s World Cup winning coach in 2003, has been one of Jones’ fiercest critics
RFU chief Bill Sweeney admitted “results are not where we expect them to be” and Woodward, the man in charge for England’s solitary World Cup win 19 years ago, was yet again fierce in his criticism of Jones on Sunday.
He labelled rugby in England as a “shambles,” insisting the weekend defeat was “one of the most depressing games I’ve seen at HQ.”
Woodward went further on Monday, stating Jones should be sacked as England head coach if they lose their next Test vs Scotland, after the “worst week in English rugby history.”
“I feel sad for him [Woodward]. If that is the best thing he has to do in his life, then he hasn’t a lot to do,” Jones, who had already agreed to step down after the 2023 World Cup in France, told Men’s Health UK.
Former England captain Chris Robshaw has backed Jones to remain in charge Former England captain Chris Robshaw has backed Jones to remain in charge
“I’m 62 now and I think in pure coaching terms I am coaching better than I ever have. Results aren’t always perfect, but I’m happy with how I have been coaching.
“After this, I want to do something really meaningful. I’ve enjoyed England a lot, it was a bit of a rescue job at the start, now rebuilding, and I am confident I will leave things in good shape.”
Jones told media post-defeat to South Africa he feels his squad is making progress as they head into a World Cup year Jones told media post-defeat to South Africa he feels his squad is making progress as they head into a World Cup year
England were booed off at Twickenham after defeat to the Springboks, which meant their record for 2022 finished at five wins, one draw and six losses.
Scotland, Ireland, France, Australia, Argentina and South Africa have all beaten the World Cup runners-up during the past 12 months but Jones believes they can still be a force at next year’s tournament.
Jones’ England lost to Argentina and South Africa this autumn and drew with New Zealand, beating only Japan
Currently the fifth favourites to lift the Webb Ellis Cup, England will avoid the frontrunners until the semi-final stage with one of Australia, Wales or Fiji a probable last-eight opponent in France.
Jones added: “If this was the Cheltenham Gold Cup, there’s a pack of four out front – France, Ireland, South Africa, New Zealand – and we are fifth, right behind them, right on the rails.
“A good position, provided we keep improving. Australia are there or thereabouts with us. It’s going to be the closest World Cup ever. France and Ireland are the in-form teams right now, but things will change.”
[ad_2]
-
Mattia Binotto resigns as Ferrari team principal after failed 2022 Formula 1 title bid
[ad_1]
Mattia Binotto had been at the helm of Ferrari since 2019; the Italian team made a promising start to the 2022 season but failed to claim a win in the final 11 races of the campaign; Italian will leave role on December 31
Last Updated: 29/11/22 9:44am
Mattia Binotto has resigned as Ferrari team principal.
Binotto will leave his role on December 31 while the team expect to appoint his replacement early in 2023, with Frederic Vasseur, current boss of the Ferrari-linked Alfa Romeo, the favourite.
Ferrari appeared to be in contention to end its long wait for titles after a strong start to the 2022 season, but failed to win any of the final 11 races of the campaign amid a loss of performance, and finished a distant second to Red Bull in the constructors’ championship.
While the Italian team ultimately did not have the pace to compete with Red Bull, the combination of reliability issues and repeated strategy errors saw Binotto come under pressure, with rumours surfacing ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi that he would be dismissed.
At the time, Ferrari said reports that Binotto would be sacked were “totally without foundation”, but less than two weeks after that denial, the team released a statement confirming the 53-year-old’s departure.
It brings a three-year reign at the head of Formula 1’s most famous team, as well as a 28-year career in total, to an end.
As Max Verstappen claimed another world title, take a look at Ferrari’s biggest strategic errors of the 2022 F1 season As Max Verstappen claimed another world title, take a look at Ferrari’s biggest strategic errors of the 2022 F1 season
“With the regret that this entails, I have decided to conclude my collaboration with Ferrari,” said Binotto, who had previously insisted he was going to stay for 2023.
“I am leaving a company that I love, which I have been part of for 28 years, with the serenity that comes from the conviction that I have made every effort to achieve the objectives set.
“I leave a united and growing team. A strong team, ready, I’m sure, to achieve the highest goals, to which I wish all the best for the future. I think it is right to take this step at this time as hard as this decision has been for me.
“I would like to thank all the people at the Gestione Sportiva who have shared this journey with me, made up of difficulties but also of great satisfaction.”
Despite speculation about his job, Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto remains focused on developing a good car for next season. Despite speculation about his job, Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto remains focused on developing a good car for next season.
Ferrrai CEO Benedetto Vigna added: “I would like to thank Mattia for his many great contributions over 28 years with Ferrari and particularly for leading the team back to a position of competitiveness during this past year.
“As a result, we are in a strong position to renew our challenge, above all for our amazing fans around the world, to win the ultimate prize in motorsport. Everyone here at the Scuderia and in the wider Ferrari community wishes Mattia well for the future.”
What went wrong for Binotto and who will replace him?
Binotto rose through the ranks at Ferrari, becoming head of the engine department in 2013 and then chief technical officer in 2016, before replacing Maurizio Arrivabene as team principal in 2019.
It was hoped that Binotto, a calmer presence than Arrivabene, would help Ferrari claim their first title since 2008.
Binotto’s first year in charge was controversial, with Ferrari competitive – particularly in qualifying – but having also been involved in an engine scandal, reaching a settlement with the FIA after the season.
Ferrari changed tack in 2020 with a car design that spectacularly failed, enduring their worst season in four decades and then struggling in the midfield the following season, too, when Binotto made the decision to replace four-time champion Sebastian Vettel with Carlos Sainz.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who finished second in the standings, says he is very proud of his team for coping with the external pressure coming into the weekend. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who finished second in the standings, says he is very proud of his team for coping with the external pressure coming into the weekend.
2022 was the big goal for Binotto and his team with all-new rules and cars – and initially, it was a test passed.
Ferrari started the new season with the fastest car, overhauling Mercedes and battling Red Bull, and Charles Leclerc won two of the first three races to lead the championship early on.
But Ferrari started to throw away wins and points with mechanical failures and, more frustratingly, strategic mistakes. Pit-stop errors and incorrect choices became a theme of Ferrari’s season and – even after Red Bull moved ahead of them with their car upgrades – it is those failures that may have cost Binotto his job.
Binotto has long-defended his team and long insisted that they are focusing on an improved 2023, although the internal and external pressure has now led to his resignation, and an opening as Ferrari’s boss.
Sky Sports in Italy report that Alfa Romeo boss Vasseur is expected to replace Binotto.
Vasseur has a strong F1 pedigree and, perhaps crucially, a strong rapport with Ferrari’s lead driver Leclerc.
Other contenders noted include Ross Brawn, Ferrari’s former technical chief, although the Englishman re-joining is extremely unlikely given he has just left an F1 motorsports role and wanted time away from the sport.
[ad_2]
-
Lando Norris: McLaren driver says he maintains ‘faith’ in team despite disappointing 2022 F1 campaign
[ad_1]
Lando Norris finished seventh in the world championship, finishing best of the rest behind the drivers of Red Bull, Ferrari and Mercedes; the 23-year-old is contracted to McLaren until 2025 but says “time will tell” regarding his future with the team
Last Updated: 27/11/22 9:20pm
After winning in Brazil, George Russell acknowledges finishing fifth in Abu Dhabi was a reality check, while Lando Norris believes he couldn’t have finished higher than sixth in his McLaren.
After winning in Brazil, George Russell acknowledges finishing fifth in Abu Dhabi was a reality check, while Lando Norris believes he couldn’t have finished higher than sixth in his McLaren.
Lando Norris insists he maintains “faith” in McLaren, despite warning the team “can’t be satisfied” with their 2022 Formula 1 campaign.
The 23-year-old Brit drove superbly to finish seventh in the world championship as the best of the rest behind the drivers of Red Bull, Ferrari and Mercedes, but McLaren were beaten to fourth in the constructors’ championship by Alpine.
Norris penned a new contract with McLaren before the start of the 2022 season that ties him to the team until the end of 2025, but the quality of his performances undoubtedly make him one of the most desirable drivers on the grid.
Asked by Sky Sports F1 during the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend about his future with the team, Norris said: “It’s just faith, it’s just honesty – that’s the main thing I need.
“I’m not a guy who likes BS or likes people trying to make me happy, I like people just being honest.
Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo say it is getting emotional ahead of Ricciardo’s departure from McLaren, but they still plan to see each other. Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo say it is getting emotional ahead of Ricciardo’s departure from McLaren, but they still plan to see each other.
“I have faith in McLaren, I have faith in the guys I work with, the whole team.
“Time will tell. You can never be 100 per cent certain where you’re going to be, but you can have a good shot at it.”
The 2022 season saw the introduction of radical new design regulations, which in theory could have given McLaren a chance to close the gap to the front-runners, but issues relating to the overheating of the car’s brakes put the British team on the back foot almost immediately.
Norris highlighted his brilliance by becoming the only driver outside of the top three teams to claim a podium during the season. He also finished 85 points clear of team-mate Daniel Ricciardo, and 30 points clear of his nearest challenger for seventh, Alpine’s Esteban Ocon.
After his final race, Sebastian Vettel acknowledges his role in Formula 1, while Lando Norris thanks him for inspiring the McLaren driver to keep speaking out against issues outside of the sport. After his final race, Sebastian Vettel acknowledges his role in Formula 1, while Lando Norris thanks him for inspiring the McLaren driver to keep speaking out against issues outside of the sport.
“I mean, from where we were in race one, I think we’ve done a good job – we recovered well,” Norris said.
“If I think of before this season, did we achieve in 2022 what we should have done as McLaren? Honestly, it’s no.
“If we want to do well and we want to be champions at some point and we want to win races, we can’t be satisfied with where we have been this season, but we can certainly be satisfied with the progress we’ve made.
“From the mechanics with our pit stops, our strategy, the whole team’s work ethic – so many things are working well, it’s just we need a slightly better car, that’s all.”
[ad_2]
-
Eddie Jones braced for ‘uncomfortable’ review after England’s dire autumn series
[ad_1]
England finished their autumn series by losing 27-13 to 14-man South Africa; Eddie Jones said he ‘doesn’t care what people think’ after his side posted a seventh Test without victory this calendar year
Last Updated: 27/11/22 10:55pm
Eddie Jones has been told that England’s performance this autumn has fallen below expectations
Eddie Jones has been told that England’s performance this autumn has fallen below expectations as the head coach accepts he faces an “uncomfortable” review.
Over the next fortnight the Rugby Football Union is to investigate a dismal campaign that reached its nadir with Saturday’s conclusive 27-13 defeat by South Africa, who claimed a first win at Twickenham since 2014.
A rout that was greeted with boos at the final whistle completed England’s worst year since 2008, comprising of six losses, five wins and a draw.
It places Jones’ future back in doubt with the review panel to examine “how improvements can be made ahead of the Six Nations” amid an acknowledgement from the RFU that the team have underperformed.
“We would like to thank England fans for their patience and support, it matters to us how they feel,” chief executive Bill Sweeney said.
Eddie Jones and England have completed their worst year since 2008
“Like them we are really disappointed with the results of the Autumn Nations Series.
“Despite strong individual performances and some great new talent coming into the team, the overall results are not where we expect them to be.”
On top of explaining why England barely fired a shot against the Springboks, Jones must also account for a first defeat by Argentina since 2008 and a 25-25 draw with New Zealand that was made possible by a dramatic late comeback.
The only success this month was against a disappointing Japan, who were put to the sword 52-13.
England’s Autumn Internationals
Sunday, November 6 England 29-30 Argentina 2.15pm Saturday, November 12 England 52-13 Japan 3.15pm Saturday, November 19 England 25-25 New Zealand 5.30pm Saturday, November 26 England 13-27 South Africa 5.30pm “The reviews are always uncomfortable when you’re not winning. I haven’t found the review comfortable when you’re not winning,” Jones said.
“I’m sure the fans have doubts and feel that I don’t know how to coach, but it’s a progression to the World Cup and we have our ups and downs.
“We want to be stronger in the Six Nations and put ourselves in the position where we’re fourth or fifth going into the World Cup, ready to go.
“I’ve got a plan for how England can win the World Cup, but it doesn’t go in a perfect line.
“Sometimes you need these games to make you understand the areas which need to be bolstered.
England captain Owen Farrell says the squad are hurting after defeat to South Africa at Twickenham but says the players will put the good work they have done to use as they prepare for the Six Nations in February. England captain Owen Farrell says the squad are hurting after defeat to South Africa at Twickenham but says the players will put the good work they have done to use as they prepare for the Six Nations in February.
“We’re not off track. You have days like against South Africa. I’ve had worse days than that.
“We felt really confident going into the game. We knew where South Africa were coming, but on the day we weren’t good enough to win those areas.”
Jones blamed the Springboks defeat on his side’s scrummaging issues, adding that he has “grave concerns about how the scrum was refereed”, without expanding on what those were.
England’s defeat was greeted with boos at the final whistle
Since 2019 the RFU has conducted a review after every block of fixtures but declined to reveal who sits on the panel beyond that it includes “board and executive members along with independent, former players and coaches”.
However, in a departure from the unequivocal backing offered to Jones when the 2022 Six Nations ended in three defeats for the third time in five years, there was no mention of support for England’s head coach this time.
While he faces renewed scrutiny, Jones has been well backed by Sweeney in the past and is not expected to be sacked.
His eight-year reign ends after the 2023 World Cup with the RFU hoping to name his successor in May having reportedly drawn up a three-strong shortlist consisting of Steve Borthwick, Ronan O’Gara and Scott Robertson.
Sir Clive Woodward has led the criticism following the crushing defeat by South Africa, declaring that the result completed the “worst week in English rugby history” and that the game in this country is a “total shambles”.
[ad_2]
-
Sale Sharks 25-20 Bristol Bears: Hosts continue fine Gallagher Premiership start as Du Preez brothers combine
[ad_1]
Sale reel in league leaders Saracens with narrow victory over Bristol, helped by Jean-Luc de Preez’s second-half try and brother Rob’s conversion and earlier penalty; visitors held lead at half-time and started second half well
Last Updated: 26/11/22 6:48pm
Rob du Preez (pictured middle) scored one of Sale’s three tries against Bristol Bears
Sale Sharks’ fine start to the Gallagher Premiership season continued with a resilient 25-20 victory over Bristol Bears at the AJ Bell Stadium.
A competitive first half saw momentum swing both ways, though Bristol rallied to hold a two-point advantage at the interval, largely thanks to Piers O’Conor’s two converted tries.
Yet Jean-Luc du Preez’s second-half try, coupled with his brother Rob’s conversion and earlier penalty, powered the hosts to a seventh win of the season.
Bristol got off to a lively start with their first attack from the opening kick, but failed to capitalise on O’Conor’s driving run, yet they remained largely under the cosh for the opening stages of the game as Sale drove to apply pressure inside the Bears’ 22.
Tom Roebuck had a try disallowed in the seventh minute but after three Sale mauls, the hosts broke the deadlock nine minutes in as Rob du Preez skipped in for the opening try.
However, on Bears’ second attack, O’Conor found space on the right wing and broke free to bring the scores level, thanks to Callum Sheedy providing the extras.
Sale were quick to respond in the 23rd minute when Roebuck followed a Rob du Preez kick and touched down after snatching the ball in the air from Charles Piutau. Rob du Preez made no mistake with the conversion.
Rob du Preez then edged his side further ahead with a penalty as momentum swung Sale’s way, but after some sloppy play, Bristol’s Luke Morahan broke to the try-line and, despite being tackled, the ball was sprayed to O’Conor who had an easy run-in for his second.
And Bristol went into half-time with a two-point advantage after AJ MacGinty sent over a penalty in the closing seconds.
Bristol emerged from the break asking questions of Sale inside their 22 and won a penalty after an advantage was played, with former Shark MacGinty kicking between the posts again in the 47th minute.
But Sale responded with a penalty of their own two minutes later as Rob du Preez opted for and sent a long-range effort soaring over.
It remained tense as Bristol looked to extend their lead with an attacking vigour that boxed Sharks into their own half, but as the final quarter approached, it was Sharks’ turn to charge at Bristol’s defensive line.
In the 68th minute, a Sale maul drove over the line where the TMO eventually awarded Jean-Luc du Preez a try to swing the scores in Sharks’ favour.
Alex Sanderson’s side refused to let Bristol through in the 75th minute as their stubborn defensive guard pushed the visitors into touch in the in-goal area.
Sharks’ hard-fought win reels in league leaders Saracens while the 10th-placed Bears fell to their sixth loss on the bounce – their worst run of form in the Premiership since 2017.
[ad_2]
-
‘England were unrecognisable’ | ‘It shouldn’t be all doom and gloom’
[ad_1]
Rob Dorsett and Kaveh Solhekol analyse England’s 0-0 draw against USA at the World Cup in Qatar.
[ad_2]
-
2023 PDC World Darts Championship: Watch the draw live on Sky Sports on Monday
[ad_1]
Watch the draw for the 2023 PDC World Darts Championship live on Sky Sports News and the Sky Sports Darts YouTube channel on Monday – Beau Greaves, Fallon Sherrock and Lisa Ashton will discover their first-round opponents; Peter Wright is defending champion
Last Updated: 24/11/22 7:31pm
Lisa Ashton, Beau Greaves and Fallon Sherrock will find out their opponents in the first round of the 2023 PDC World Darts Championship
Beau Greaves, Fallon Sherrock and more will discover their Alexandra Palace fate when the draw for the 2023 PDC World Darts Championship takes place live on Sky Sports News and the Sky Sports Darts YouTube channel on Monday evening.
Tune in from 6.25pm as Wayne Mardle and Mark Webster draw the names for the biggest tournament in the sport, which runs from December 15 to January 3 live exclusively on Sky Sports.
There will be three women’s players in this winter’s competition with teenage sensation Beau Greaves and Lisa Ashton taking their spots from the Women’s Series Order of Merit and Fallon Sherrock awarded a place by virtue of winning the inaugural Women’s World Matchplay in July.
On the latest episode of Love The Darts, Devon Petersen and Michael Bridge discuss whether Sherrock deserves her place at the 2023 World Championship On the latest episode of Love The Darts, Devon Petersen and Michael Bridge discuss whether Sherrock deserves her place at the 2023 World Championship
Greaves, 18, has been in sparkling form in the Women’s Series, clinching second spot in the Order of Merit with seven consecutive event wins, and the reigning WDF Lakeside Women’s World Champion could be a real threat at Alexandra Palace.
Greaves, Sherrock and Ashton will enter at the first-round stage alongside the likes of Steve Beaton, Adrian Lewis and Josh Rock, with the top 32 on the PDC Order of Merit, including world No 1 Gerwyn Price, defending champion Peter Wright, Michael van Gerwen, Grand Slam champion Michael Smith and a revitalised Raymond van Barneveld, playing from round two.
Wright beat Smith 7-5 in last season’s World Championship final to win the title for the second time in his career, having also triumphed in 2020 with a 7-3 success over Van Gerwen.
There were three nine-dart finishes in the 2022 tournament with Price, Darius Labanauskas and William Borland pulling off the feat.
Watch the 2023 PDC World Darts Championship live on Sky Sports from December 15 to January 3.
[ad_2]
-
Jamie Carragher: Julian Ward departure a worry for Liverpool
[ad_1]
Jamie Carragher claims the departure of sporting director Julian Ward is a worry for Liverpool and the uncertainty surrounding the club is a concern in terms of recruitment.
[ad_2]
-
Sam Warburton: Wales need biggest reform in history | ‘I fear for Wales over next five years’
[ad_1]
“The game in Wales needs the biggest reform in its history if there are not to be repeats of the unacceptable defeat by Georgia. This situation has been brewing for some time. The system is not working. The whole thing needs to be wiped clean. Sadly, I know it won’t happen” – Warburton
Last Updated: 23/11/22 2:07pm
Sam Warburton has spoken about his fears for the future of Welsh rugby
Former Wales and British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton has shared his thoughts and fears for the future of Welsh rugby, saying it needs the “biggest reform in history.”
Writing for The Times on Wednesday, Warburton spoke in the wake of Wales’ embarrassing 13-12 defeat to Georgia in Cardiff – a first loss to Los Lelos.
The loss meant Wales have suffered defeats at home to Italy and Georgia in the same year, while also having lost to Ireland, England, France, South Africa (twice) and New Zealand in 2022.
Indeed, their only wins have come against Scotland, Argentina and a much-changed South Africa in the second of their three-Test July series, live on Sky Sports.
The poor year under head coach Wayne Pivac, which saw them finish fifth in the Six Nations, also comes after a 2020 season which saw them lose seven of 10 Tests, beating only Italy (twice) and Georgia, finishing fifth in the Six Nations as well.
“The game in Wales needs the biggest reform in its history if there are not to be repeats of the unacceptable defeat by Georgia last Saturday,” Warburton said.
Wales have lost at home to Italy and Georgia in Cardiff in 2022
“This situation has been brewing for some time both on and off the field. The system is just not working. The whole thing needs to be wiped clean and a fresh start made. Sadly, I know it won’t happen. I know I will say these things and we will be in the same situation in 12 months.
“I genuinely want the best for Welsh rugby. I am a Cardiff boy but if the Scarlets ended up winning the European Cup I would be over the moon. It would be amazing for Welsh rugby. I want everyone in Wales to succeed.
“I would never let any bias towards Cardiff hinder my decision-making and that, unfortunately, is one of the problems in Welsh rugby: there is too much parochialism.
“And the amateur game still has way too much say. Of the 12 directors on the Welsh Rugby Union’s board, there are eight community members. That is like having eight people on the board of a company that are contributing to just one part of the business. It’s just way too many.
Warburton won two Six Nations titles with Wales in 2012 and 2013
“There should be one community member on that board. The community game is hugely important, of course it is, and most of the people involved are well-intentioned, but it should not have eight representatives on the board of a company with a turnover of £100m. It is farcical.
“It is a governance structure that is stuck in the Stone Age. Unless that changes, very little else will change.”
‘It’s such a mess…I really do fear for Wales over the next five years’
In addition to problems in governance, Warburton pointed out how player pathways, funding disputes between the four regions – Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys, Scarlets – and the WRU, and lack of playing depth at senior level also point to a bleak future.
Only twice in the professional era (1995, 2010) have Wales had a worst winning percentage than this year
He added: “It is such a mess. There is little trust on either side. I don’t think the WRU trust the regions with their money and then the regions don’t want to be owned by the WRU because their governance is so old fashioned and they do not trust their decisions.
Wales coach Wayne Pivac is under pressure after a run of just three wins in 11 games in 2022
“I really do fear for Wales in the next five years. They are simply not going to have the pool of players to compete, especially once the core of experienced players retire.”
Warburton says he ‘fears for Wales over the next five years’
Calls for ‘a brutally honest review’
Speaking as a pundit on Amazon Prime post-Wales’ defeat to Georgia, Warburton pondered “underlying issues” and questioned “why aren’t the players motivated and desperate?”
The 34-year-old, who picked up 74 caps for Wales between 2009 and 2017 before retiring injured, says drastic change needs to occur, and it needs to start with an immediate review.
Warburton was a coach with Wales under Pivac between November 2019 and October 2020, before stepping away
“There needs to be a very honest review now. If I was in charge at the WRU – and believe me, I am not touting for a job – I would be going around to speak to everyone in the Wales set-up and at the regions,” he said.
“I would be saying: ‘Anonymously, please tell me everything that is good and bad.’ It needs to be brutal across the board to find the answers.”
The former back-row captained the British and Irish Lions on two tours: Australia 2013, New Zealand 2017
Sky Sports has contacted the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) for comment regarding Warburton’s claims and statements
[ad_2]
-
Manchester United and Liverpool | Football royalty up for grabs?
[ad_1]
Melissa Reddy reports on the news that both Manchester United and Liverpool are considering new investment and the potential of an outright sale, at the same time.
[ad_2]
-
Max Verstappen: Red Bull driver already an ‘all-time’ F1 great, says Nico Rosberg
[ad_1]
Max Verstappen won Sunday’s season finale in Abu Dhabi to claim a record-extending 15th victory of the campaign, having previously wrapped up his second successive title; 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg: “He’s already one of the best of all-time and I think, he’s only getting started.”
Last Updated: 21/11/22 9:42pm
Nico Rosberg believes Max Verstappen has already proved himself to be one of the best drivers of all time following his sensational second title-winning season
Nico Rosberg believes Max Verstappen has already proved himself to be one of the best drivers of all time following his sensational second title-winning season
Max Verstappen has already established himself as one of Formula 1’s “best of all time” after delivering “one of the greatest driving seasons ever seen”, according to former world champion Nico Rosberg.
Verstappen won Sunday’s season finale in Abu Dhabi to claim a record-extending 15th victory of the campaign, having previously wrapped up his second successive title with four races to spare.
The 25-year-old Dutchman’s dominant triumph came after a concerning start to the season, which saw Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc open up a 46-point lead as Verstappen retired from two of the first three races.
“He is an incredible driver,” 2016 world champion Rosberg told Sky Sports F1’s Any Driven Monday.
“I think it’s easy to say even now that’s he’s going to be one of the best of all time, if you look at the statistics he actually even is now.”
Max Verstappen ends a dominant season with a record-extending 15th victory of the campaign! Max Verstappen ends a dominant season with a record-extending 15th victory of the campaign!
Verstappen’s 2022 victories took his career tally to 35, moving him up to sixth on the sport’s all-time list, which is topped by Lewis Hamilton with 103.
“He’s a double world champion with all of the race wins that he has, more than (Fernando) Alonso,” Rosberg continued.
“He’s already one of the best of all time and I think, he’s only getting started.
“He’s going to confirm that in the next decade, certainly. His level of driving is phenomenal and it’s great to witness that.”
Check out some of Max Verstappen’s highlights from a dominant 2022 season. Check out some of Max Verstappen’s highlights from a dominant 2022 season.
Verstappen’s many victories came in all forms, with wins from seven different positions on the grid, including a memorable triumph from 14th at the Belgian Grand Prix.
Ferrari pushed Red Bull hard, particularly during the first half of the season, with Leclerc ending the year with nine pole positions to Verstappen’s seven.
However, reliability issues, strategic blunders and driver errors from the Italian team on race days were taken advantage of by the ruthless Verstappen, who hardly put a foot wrong all season.
Max Verstappen reflects on his outstanding 15 wins this season, but says the ‘goal is to be better’. Max Verstappen reflects on his outstanding 15 wins this season, but says the ‘goal is to be better’.
“We need to remember also, it’s not like from the get-go this year his car was miles quicker than everyone else’s,” Rosberg said.
“The Ferrari was the quickest car in the beginning of the season and still, he got this incredible 15 wins and really destroyed the opposition in that way.
“If you look at the points, he scored 146 more than anybody else, it’s unreal. It’s one of the greatest driving seasons we’ve ever seen certainly.”
[ad_2]
-
Worcester Warriors: Administrators’ report reveals full debts of more than £30m
[ad_1]
Worcester’s debts include £16.1m in Government loans from the Covid Sports Survival plan, over £5.8m to ticket holders, suppliers, businesses and banks connected to the club, £2.1m in unpaid taxes to HMRC, £6.8m in payroll and over £2m to former owners
Last Updated: 21/11/22 1:29pm
A report by administrators has revealed Worcester Warriors’ debts total more than £30m
A detailed report by administrators Begbies Traynor has revealed full Worcester Warriors debts total more than £30m, as the relegated Premiership club continue to seek a new buyer.
Former Worcester CEO Jim O’Toole is in pole position to complete a takeover, with the report sent to the club’s creditors revealing O’Toole and James Sandford’s consortium paid a £500,000 deposit to be able to negotiate exclusively until the end of November.
The report also states that former Warriors owners Jason Whittingham and Colin Goldring claim they are still owed over £2m by the club.
Other findings show that O’Toole and Sandford’s consortium have already invested more than £1m in the club, and paid off a £634,000 loan taken on land at Sixways taken by the previous owners.
WRFC Players Ltd – the company which held the contracts of Worcester Warriors’ players and some staff – was liquidated in the High Court.
WRFC Players Ltd – the company which held the contracts of Worcester Warriors’ players and some staff – was liquidated in the High Court
The winding-up petition heard concerned an unpaid tax bill of approximately £6m, and the result saw the contracts of Worcester’s players immediately terminated.
Worcester then had their suspension from the rest of the Gallagher Premiership season and enforced relegation to the Championship confirmed by the RFU.
Former owners Goldring and Whittingham were also disqualified as company directors for 12 months following a court hearing in Cardiff in October for failing to file accounts for the financial year to 28 February 2021.
In the latest report, Begbies Traynor confirm the club owe the Government £16.1m in loans from the Covid Sports Survival plan, and still owe £2.1m in unpaid taxes to HMRC.
Worcester and Wasps both entered administration and were relegated from the Premiership within a fortnight of each other
Ticket holders, suppliers, businesses and banks connected to the club are also owed more than £5.8m, while WRFC Players Ltd owed £6.8m prior to being wound up.
The administrators have also confirmed that even if the entirety of Worcester’s remaining assets were sold, the prospective funds raised would not be enough to pay off the existing debts.
Joint-administrator Palmer said in the report that money owed to the HMRC is “highly likely” to be repaid, while the debt owed to the Government would be taken on by a future buyer.
[ad_2]
-
DP World Tour Championship | Day 4 highlights
[ad_1]
Highlights from day four of the DP World Tour Championship as the race for being ranked World number one hots up.
[ad_2]
-
Rugby League World Cup: James Tedesco stars to seal 12th triumph for Australia in 30-10 win over Samoa
[ad_1]
Australia captain James Tedesco put in a player-of-the-match performance to help the Kangaroos win their third men’s World Cup in a row and deny first-time finalists Samoa the chance of making history at Old Trafford
By Marc Bazeley at Old Trafford
Last Updated: 19/11/22 5:51pm
James Tedesco crossed twice as Australia kept their hold on the Rugby League World Cup
Skipper James Tedesco led the way with a player-of-the-match display as Australia broke Samoa’s hearts and retained the men’s Rugby League World Cup with a 30-10 victory in the final at Old Trafford.
The first-time finalists appeared to be in the ascendancy at the start of the contest, but tries from Latrell Mitchell, full-back Tedesco and Liam Martin helped ensure it was the reigning champions who went into the break holding a 14-0 lead.
The Kangaroos were dealt a blow seven minutes into the second half when Angus Crichton was sin-binned for foul play which saw Samoa hooker Chanel Harris-Tavita forced to leave the field with a head injury in his last game before retiring.
Despite being down to 12 men, Australia pushed further ahead through a try from Cameron Murray and although Brian To’o’s converted score briefly raised hopes of a fightback for Samoa, full-back Tedesco crossed again with 12 minutes to go followed by Mitchell putting the seal on a third World Cup triumph in a row with his second.
More to follow…
[ad_2]
-
Abu Dhabi GP: Sergio Perez fastest in Practice Three as Lewis Hamilton investigated after red flag incident
[ad_1]
Sergio Perez outpaced Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen to top final practice at the Yas Marina Circuit; Lewis Hamilton under investigation for failing to slow under red flag; watch Abu Dhabi GP Qualifying later on Saturday live at 2pm, with build-up from 1.15pm
Last Updated: 19/11/22 12:21pm
Sergio Perez outpaced Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen to top final practice at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, as Lewis Hamilton was left facing a stewards investigation for failing to slow under a red flag.
There was little surprise that constructors’ champions Red Bull remained a step ahead of their rivals at the Yas Marina Circuit, but Perez being 0.152s clear of world champion Verstappen with a 1:24.982 was certainly unexpected.
Mercedes were hoping overnight setup changes would help them close the gap to Red Bull after Verstappen had topped second practice on Friday, but Hamilton was more than two tenths back from Perez, with team-mate George Russell further back in fourth.
Hamilton faces a nervous wait – and likely meeting with the stewards – after the session, having come under investigation for failing to slow down after a failure on Pierre Gasly’s AlphaTauri triggered a red flag.
Replays suggested Hamilton may not have been aware of the red flag as he overtook McLaren’s Lando Norris, but the seven-time world champion could now face a grid penalty, which would harm his faint hopes of sealing a first victory of the campaign in the season finale.
Sergio Perez finds the pace in FP3 and beats teammate Max Vertsappen by 0.152s at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Sergio Perez finds the pace in FP3 and beats teammate Max Vertsappen by 0.152s at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Norris, meanwhile, led a strong showing from McLaren to take fifth ahead of Ferrari duo Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, with team-mate Daniel Ricciardo behind them in eighth.
While the session provides encouragement to Perez as he seeks to beat Leclerc to second in the drivers’ championship, the fact it was conducted in hot sunshine and daylight means it is not representative of the night-time conditions Qualifying and the race will be run in.
However, the fact that Red Bull looked equally – if not more – strong under the lights on Friday, is an ominous sign for their rivals.
Ferrari, whose team principal Mattia Binotto is facing continued speculation over his job security, appeared a step behind both Red Bull and Mercedes, with Leclerc heard complaining about his engine during the session.
More to follow…
Abu Dhabi GP Practice Three Timesheet
Driver Team Time 1) Sergio Perez Red Bull 1:24.982 2) Max Verstappen Red Bull +0.152 3) Lewis Hamilton Mercedes +0.240 4) George Russell Mercedes +0.413 5) Lando Norris McLaren +0.536 6) Charles Leclerc Ferrari +0.589 7) Carlos Sainz Ferrari +0.623 8) Daniel Ricciardo McLaren +0.968 9) Sebastian Vettel Aston Martin +1.030 10) Alexander Albon Williams +1.069 11) Estaban Ocon Alpine +1.091 12) Fernando Alonso Alpine +1.094 13) Yuki Tsunoda AlphaTauri +1.188 14) Valtteri Bottas Alfa Romeo +1.207 15) Pierre Gasly AlphaTauri +1.257 16) Lance Stroll Aston Martin +1.316 17) Kevin Magnussen Haas +1.374 18) Mick Schumacher Haas +1.491 19) Zhou Guanyu Alfa Romeo +1.500 20) Nicolas Latifi Williams +1.664 [ad_2]
-
England Wheelchair World Cup winner Tom Halliwell revels in Rob Burrow praise after 28-24 final win over France
[ad_1]
England captain Tom Halliwell, who plays for Leeds Rhinos in the Wheelchair Super League, was sent a congratulatory message by Rhinos icon Rob Burrow after playing a starring role in the final; France head coach Sylvain Crismanovich criticised a lack of showering facilities for players
By Marc Bazeley at Manchester Central
Last Updated: 19/11/22 12:02am
Tom Halliwell celebrates with the World Cup after guiding England to victory over France in the final
Tom Halliwell was overcome with emotion after his hero Rob Burrow congratulated him on winning the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup.
The England captain spoke in the build-up to Friday’s 28-24 win over France in the final about how honoured he was to be wearing the No 7 shirt as Burrow had during his stellar career with Betfred Super League side Leeds Rhinos.
Burrow posted his congratulations to Halliwell, who scored the game-clinching try two minutes from time in England’s win over France, on his Twitter account after the final and the Rhinos wheelchair star was overwhelmed to generate such a reaction.
“It’s special,” Halliwell said. “My try was sort of recreating his from the [2011 Super League] Grand Final, except his was 40 metres out and mine was probably four.
“Those are such kind words and it means a lot, but I can’t rest now. I’ve still got work hard and this is just the beginning for wheelchair rugby league, and I’m happy to be a part of it.
“I’m very grateful to be a part of this sport, it’s amazing and can’t wait to see what it can grow into.
“I’m probably forever in debt to rugby league and wheelchair rugby league has given me a platform to be able to play with family and friends.”
After winning the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup, England’s Tom Halliwell and Seb Bechara reflected on the result and atmosphere at the game against France After winning the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup, England’s Tom Halliwell and Seb Bechara reflected on the result and atmosphere at the game against France
England had lost the last two wheelchair World Cup finals against France, with the 2017 one seeing their rivals snatch victory with a try on the final play of the game.
This time, however, it was the host nation who won a see-saw contest in which they were 14-12 down at half-time before seizing the initiative after the break.
“I’ve learnt loads of amazing lessons along the way and probably playing France in tight games has been the biggest lesson, so thanks to them,” England head coach Tom Coyd said.
“I said ‘believe in yourselves’ [at half-time] because I thought we were playing within ourselves. Our defence was so solid, we were just a little bit scared of making a mistake. I said to them believe in themselves and they went out and did that.”
Tom Halliwell’s late try sealed victory for England over France
Attention will soon turn to the next Rugby League World Cup in France in just three years’ time, with the aim being to build on the exposure the wheelchair version of the sport has enjoyed being played alongside the men’s and women’s running game competitions.
Halliwell is optimistic it is only going to keep growing in the build-up to the 2025 tournament, but for now, just wants to enjoy the moment of skippering England to glory on the sport’s biggest stage.
“It’s probably the best feeling in the world, lifting it with these players and staff,” Halliwell said.
“We’ve been working so hard for the past five years to be able to get to this point and it’s so good knowing all this hard work has paid off.”
Tom Halliwell lifts the trophy after victory in the World Cup final
Crismanovich criticises lack of showering facilities
The wheelchair World Cup has been widely acclaimed for elevating the sport to a new level and for its inclusiveness, with the sport allowing male and female disabled and non-disabled athletes to compete on an even playing field.
But while France head coach Sylvain Crismanovich felt the action on the pitch brought many positives over the past three weeks, he believes there was still some areas behind the scenes where work needs to be done.
Crismanovich was particularly upset about the lack of showering facilities for the players at the venue for the final, Manchester Central.
“There have been a whole load of positives in front of the cameras, but behind the cameras, I feel there have been some oversights in this tournament,” Crismanovich said.
Reigning champions France were edged out by England in the final this time around
“There has been no discrimination between teams, but tonight we haven’t got any showers.
“All of the players played, but had no showering facilities and I don’t think the women or the men would have stood to have that.”
On the game itself, Crismanovich felt the outcome could have gone either way.
“It was a close game throughout and there was no point we felt we were in command,” Crismanovich said. “It was back and forth the whole way through, so it was a close game.”
[ad_2]
-
Formula 1 launches F1 Academy: All-female racing series for younger drivers set for 2023 debut
[ad_1]
The series will start in 2023 and F1 says it will be an ‘extra route’ for young women alongside W Series, the all-female championship that is aiming to return for a fourth season next year despite having its 2022 campaign shortened amid financial difficulties
Last Updated: 18/11/22 12:59pm
The new F1 Academy series will see younger female drivers run in the same chassis as Formula 4 (above)
Formula 1 has announced the launch of its own all-female driver category, the F1 Academy, which the sport hopes will eventually lead to a woman racer on the grid.
The series will start in 2023 and F1 say it will be an ‘extra route’ up the motorsport pyramid for young women alongside W Series, the similarly all-female championship that is aiming to return for a fourth season next year despite having its 2022 campaign shortened amid financial difficulties.
It is hoped the F1 Academy will quickly get a woman into Formula 3, and help Formula 2 and Formula 1 opportunities in the future.
The last female to race in F1 was Lella Lombardi back in 1976.
Click2Drive Bristol Street motors racing driver Alice Powell says her team were disappointed on missing out on the Constructors Championship after the W Series was cut short, but is optimistic the series will return next year Click2Drive Bristol Street motors racing driver Alice Powell says her team were disappointed on missing out on the Constructors Championship after the W Series was cut short, but is optimistic the series will return next year
“Everyone should have the opportunity to follow their dreams and achieve their potential and Formula 1 wants to ensure we are doing everything we can to create greater diversity and routes into this incredible sport,” said Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali.
“That is why I am delighted to announce the F1 Academy that will give young female drivers the best chance to fulfil their ambitions through a comprehensive programme that supports their racing careers and gives them everything they need to move into F3 and hopefully to F2 and then the pinnacle of Formula 1.
“The more opportunity there is the better and this is designed to provide another route for the drivers to succeed.”
The F1 Academy will feature five teams, run by current F2 and F3 teams, with three cars each to make up a 15-car grid. The inaugural season will have 21 races, with seven three-race events, and is likely to include at least F1 race weekend.
Like W Series, all drivers will compete in the same Formula 4 chassis.
F1 say they will be providing funding of €150,000 (£130,000) for each car, which will need to be matched by drivers to enter. They say that is a ‘fraction of the usual costs to enter comparable series’, and the rest of the budget will be provided by the teams.
Anthony Davidson believes W Series champion Jamie Chadwick has a very bright future in the sport after she claimed her third W Series title Anthony Davidson believes W Series champion Jamie Chadwick has a very bright future in the sport after she claimed her third W Series title
The statement adds: ‘Formula 1 wants to ensure aspiring female drivers have the best opportunities to reach their potential with an important first step of getting into Formula 3 and progressing through the ranks.
‘The W Series continues to provide a great platform for drivers and the F1 Academy is intended to add an extra route for the next generation of young female drivers’.
The series will be headed up by Bruno Michel, who has ran F2 and F3, and he said: “I am very excited to launch this new category. Diversity is extremely important in motorsport, and with the F1 Academy we will prove that female drivers have what it takes to compete at high levels.
“I am absolutely convinced that if young women are given the same amount of experience as any other driver, they can successfully make their way through the pyramid. Our goal is to see female drivers on the F3 grid in the next two to three years, and for them to quickly challenge for points and podiums.
“The aim is to increase the field in the near future, because we hope that this category will inspire more young girls to compete in motorsport at the highest of levels.”
W Series welcome F1 Academy
CEO of W Series Catherine Bond Muir welcomed the announcement.
“W Series created the first platform for women in motorsport which has inspired young girls all around the world since our inaugural season in 2019. It is fantastic to see this grow as a result of our pioneering work.
“W Series welcomes any initiative which shares our ambition to provide more opportunities for women in motorsport,” said Bond Muir.
“Our objective from the start has always been to increase the talent pool of women racing drivers, and the addition of the F1 Academy as a feeder to W Series and other series is a further step in inspiring the next generation to progress up the motorsport ladder.
“We are looking forward to finalising W Series’ plans for 2023 and beyond, providing exciting racing and entertaining our fans around the world.
“Our mission is still clear: to offer women racing drivers a platform to race globally at the pinnacle of women’s motorsport, and in doing so continue to spread our message further and wider.”
[ad_2]
-
Jon Rahm: Rory McIlroy’s stand against LIV and performances ‘incredible’ | Fears for Sergio Garcia’s legacy
[ad_1]
Jon Rahm has hailed Rory McIlroy’s efforts as ‘incredible’ on and off the golf course this year
World No 5 Jon Rahm has hailed Rory McIlroy’s stand against LIV Golf in tandem with his golfing performances this year, and admits he is worried for the legacy of fellow Spaniard Sergio Garcia.
McIlroy is targeting more Dubai success this week, live on Sky Sports Golf, as the world No 1 aims to round off a memorable 2022 with DP World Tour Championship victory.
A runner-up finish at The Masters and eighth-place showing at the PGA Championship were followed by him claiming fifth at the US Open and then narrowly missing out on victory at The Open, before McIlroy brought his FedExCup-winning form from the PGA Tour back across to Europe in the autumn.
McIlroy is aiming to clinch DP World Tour Championship victory this week, live on Sky Sports
McIlroy claimed joint-second with Rahm at the BMW PGA Championship in the first of three consecutive top-four finishes on the DP World Tour, lifting him to top spot, with the 33-year-old now looking to become the first player since Henrik Stenson to win the FedExCup and DP World Tour order of merit in the same year.
All the while, McIlroy, who won the CJ Cup back on the PGA Tour on his last outing, has been a loyal supporter of golf’s established tours in their legal battle with Saudi-funded breakaway circuit LIV, and believes it may take chief-executive Greg Norman exiting LIV Golf to get any resolution within the sport.
Rahm, when asked how he rated McIlroy’s actions on and off the golf course, was full of praise…
“How do I rate? You’re putting me in a difficult position here,” he said.
“He’s played amazing golf to win the FedExCup, and to have a chance to win the Race to Dubai as well.
McIlroy’s performances this year saw him become FedExCup champion
“This would be I think the second time in his career he wins both, which is quite an accomplishment. He’s played amazing. I think the only thing he will tell you that’s missing is a major championship off having a pretty amazing year.
“It’s great to see somebody with his platform to take a stand as he did, whether you agree with it or not, he’s taken a stand on what he believes in and that’s it. I think it’s great.
Speaking at a press conference, Rahm was full of praise for McIlroy and admitted he worries for Sergio Garcia’s legacy
“He’s had a lot of input. He’s been on the board of the PGA Tour and tried to make a change.
“To be honest, with how long those meetings are and how much as players we talk to each other to play as good as he has, is pretty remarkable.
“I mean, in this profession, we are all basically CEOs of our own little golf company, and now he has invested in so much more. Again, the role he’s had in both is quite incredible.”
McIlroy says Greg Norman needs to step down from his position as LIV Golf chief executive immediately because golf’s tours need an ‘adult in the room’ to help end their feud McIlroy says Greg Norman needs to step down from his position as LIV Golf chief executive immediately because golf’s tours need an ‘adult in the room’ to help end their feud
On the flip side, Ryder Cup legend Garcia was one of the first to leave the PGA and DP World Tours and join LIV.
The Spaniard has 16 career wins on the DP World Tour and has appeared in 320 tournaments since turning pro in 1999. The 2017 Masters champion has reached as high as No 2 in the world.
The 42-year-old’s decision to join LIV may also see him ineligible to compete in the Ryder Cup, an event he has appeared in 10 times in his career and scored the most points (28.5) in the competition’s history.
Rahm, while saying he hopes Garcia’s legacy remain untarnished, admits he can see how it might be to some.
“I hope not [Garcia’s legacy affected]. It’s very unprecedented, right, what we’ve been dealing with in the game of golf, in the last…it hasn’t even been that long, what, six months. And there’s certainly going to be a before and after at some point, and there’s definitely some division going on.
Garcia’s legacy may well be tainted for some due to his LIV Golf exploits, Rahm admits
“But I think to the core fans who have been fans of Sergio, I don’t think they care, really, where he plays. Some of them might, but most of them I don’t really think they care.
“It still shouldn’t change what he’s done in the game; what he’s done in the Ryder Cup, European Tour, PGA Tour, shouldn’t be affected by where he decides to play golf, at least in my mind.
“It could have somewhat of an impact. I have a hard time believing a lot of those players are going to have a positive impact with their legacy right now.
Garcia is the most successful Ryder Cup player in history, but may not even be eligible to play now
“We don’t know what’s going to happen, but if it does, I hope it’s not a big one, let’s say it that way. He’s done a lot for the game of golf, so it would be sad to see that change.”
Rahm: We need to stop giving LIV publicity | ‘I’m not totally against LIV players gaining ranking points’
Regarding World Ranking points and LIV golf, Rahm admitted he is not against some LIV players being rewarded, but said there would have to be adjustments made.
“We need to stop giving LIV the publicity. They are not asking for it. That’s the first thing I’m going to say,” he added.
“I think a lot of people are against them having World Ranking points. I’m not necessarily against it but there should be adjustments.
“If your requirement is to have World Ranking points as 72 holes and a cut, maybe you don’t award them 100 per cent of the points since they are not fulfilling all of the requirements.
“I also believe, it’s probably a couple-year process, so they need to respect that as every other tour has.
“But, like we say, if there’s some requirements and it’s only 54 holes and you don’t have a cut, maybe you award them, let’s say the winner will get 30 or I give them 75 per cent of them, I don’t know.
“They do have some incredible players. To say that Dustin [Johnson] wasn’t one of the best players this year would be a mistake.”
Watch the DP World Tour Championship throughout the week live on Sky Sports. Live coverage begins on Thursday with Featured Groups from 5am on Sky Sports Golf, ahead of full coverage from 7am.
[ad_2]
-
Grand Slam of Darts: Peter Wright dumped out by Nathan Aspinall as Josh Rock sets up Michael van Gerwen clash
[ad_1]
World Champion Peter Wright is dumped out of the Grand Slam of Darts after suffering defeat to Nathan Aspinall while Josh Rock sets up a knockout encounter with Michael van Gerwen watch every dart live on Sky Sports every day through to the final on Sunday, November 20
Last Updated: 15/11/22 11:54pm
World Champion Peter Wright was sensationally dumped out of the Grand Slam of Darts by Nathan Aspinall while Josh Rock set up a blockbuster clash against Michael van Gerwen in Wolverhampton.
On a spectacular night, Aspinall produced a stirring comeback to knock out Wright, while Ross Smith delivered a record-breaking display in his victory over Van Gerwen.
‘The Asp’ reeled off four straight legs from 2-1 down to eliminate World Champion Wright, as Groups E-H concluded on a dramatic Day Four at the Aldersley Leisure Village.
Aspinall sent Wright crashing out with these winning darts… Aspinall sent Wright crashing out with these winning darts…
“I’m so happy to get through and I can’t believe I’ve topped the group,” admitted Aspinall, who will meet Jermaine Wattimena for a place in the quarter-finals.
“Peter is going through a tough time at the moment. I don’t think his head was in the game and I give my best wishes to Jo, but I had to go up there and do my job.”
Tuesday, November 15 – Results
Group F Jermaine Wattimena 5-1 Leonard Gates Group F Jonny Clayton 2-5 Damon Heta Group G Luke Woodhouse 4-5 Nathan Rafferty Group G Michael van Gerwen 4-5 Ross Smith Group E Alan Soutar 5-2 Fallon Sherrock Group E Peter Wright 2-5 Nathan Aspinall Group H Ryan Searle 3-5 Scott Williams Group H Luke Humphries 3-5 Josh Rock 
Nathan Aspinall couldn’t hide his delight after beating Peter Wright to top Group E Nathan Aspinall couldn’t hide his delight after beating Peter Wright to top Group E
Wright required three legs to book his place in the knockout stages, and he was punished for squandering two darts at tops for a 3-1 lead in a crucial fourth leg.
Aspinall capitalised and followed up legs of 14 and 13 darts with a 106 checkout to lead 4-2, and despite spurning five match darts in an edgy conclusion, he regained his poise to wrap up proceedings via double eight.
‘The Asp’ hit this magnificent 106 finish during his win against Wright ‘The Asp’ hit this magnificent 106 finish during his win against Wright
His 5-2 success saw him top the group on leg difference, and the Stockport star advances alongside debutant Alan Soutar, who defeated Fallon Sherrock 5-2 earlier in the night.
“Watching that match backstage – that was the worst feeling I’ve ever had in darts. It was horrible,” admitted Soutar, who will now play Jonny Clayton in Thursday’s second round.
“The Grand Slam was a free roll for me and I’m now in the world’s top 40 after less than two years on the tour, so I’m absolutely delighted.”
Ross Smith says he wanted to show everyone what he could do against Michael van Gerwen Ross Smith says he wanted to show everyone what he could do against Michael van Gerwen
Elsewhere, Van Gerwen sealed top spot in Group G despite succumbing to an inspired Smith in arguably the match of the tournament so far.
‘Smudger’ was assured of qualification before his tie against Van Gerwen following Luke Woodhouse’s defeat to Nathan Rafferty, and he produced a blistering display to prevail in a nine-leg epic.
Smith set a Grand Slam of Darts group stage record by hitting NINE maximums during his sensational win Smith set a Grand Slam of Darts group stage record by hitting NINE maximums during his sensational win
“I wanted to show everyone what I can do against the best in the world,” said Smith, who averaged 107.9 and hit a maximum in every single leg.
“Hopefully I can kick on now. I’m loving my darts and I’m so happy with life in general, so I just want to keep going.”
MVG nailed this stunning 145 checkout during his defeat against Smith MVG nailed this stunning 145 checkout during his defeat against Smith
Woodhouse saw his qualification hopes dashed in a thrilling nine-leg affair against Nathan Rafferty, despite averaging 101, crashing in five 180s and converting the first 170 finish of the tournament.
Rock qualified for the last 16 after hitting 121 against Humphries Rock qualified for the last 16 after hitting 121 against Humphries
In Group H, emerging Northern Irish star Josh Rock joined Luke Humphries in the last 16, after running out a 5-3 winner in a captivating showdown between the pair.
Scott Williams posted a stunning 107 average to come through a high-quality clash against Ryan Searle in the other Group G tie, registering six 180s and two 11-darters in the process.
Josh Rock says he is proud of himself after progressing to the last 16 Josh Rock says he is proud of himself after progressing to the last 16
“I believe I can win this tournament,” insisted Rock, who will play three-time Grand Slam champion Van Gerwen in a huge last-16 tie on Thursday night.
“It will be a fantastic match. I’ve never played Michael before – he’s the second best player of all time in my opinion, but I’m not scared of playing him.”
Luke Woodhouse pinned this wonderful 170 checkout in Wolverhampton Luke Woodhouse pinned this wonderful 170 checkout in Wolverhampton
Earlier in the night, Jermaine Wattimena joined Jonny Clayton in advancing through Group F, punishing a profligate display from North American Champion Leonard Gates to complete an emphatic 5-1 victory.
Wattimena sealed the deal with a clinical 108 kill, and this result meant that Damon Heta needed to whitewash Clayton to keep his Grand Slam dream alive.
The Australian was unable to produce the heroic escape act, although he bowed out on a high, averaging 93 and landing three 180s to inflict Clayton’s first defeat of the campaign.
The best of the action from another dramatic night in Wolverhampton The best of the action from another dramatic night in Wolverhampton
Wednesday, November 17 – Fixtures (7pm)
Last 16 (Best of 19 legs) Raymond van Barneveld vs Simon Whitlock Michael Smith vs Rob Cross Danny Noppert vs Gerwyn Price Dirk van Duijvenbode vs Joe Cullen The last 16 of the Grand Slam gets under way on Wednesday night, as reigning champion Gerwyn Price plays UK Open winner Danny Noppert, while 2012 champion Raymond van Barneveld plays Australia’s World Cup hero Simon Whitlock.
Elsewhere, former World Cup of Darts partners Michael Smith and Rob Cross collide, while Masters champion Joe Cullen meets Dutch star Dirk van Duijvenbode for a place in the last eight.
Watch the Grand Slam of Darts at Aldersley Leisure Village in Wolverhampton all the way through until the final on November 20 – with every session live on Sky Sports & don’t forget the World Championship is also coming to Sky Sports from December 15 until January 3.
[ad_2]
