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Manchester City striker Erling Haaland answers quick fire questions such as who is his best friend in football, what he’d be if he wasn’t a footballer, his go-to karaoke song, and who is the best player he’s ever played with.
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Tag: Results
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Premier League Darts: Michael van Gerwen defeats Gerwyn Price to win record-breaking seventh title
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Michael van Gerwen creates Premier League history by winning his seventh title
to move clear of the great Phil Taylor; Sky Sports is back for the World Cup of Darts at Frankfurt’s Eissporthalle from June 15-18 as Australia defend the titleBy Raz Mirza & Megan Wellens at The O2
Last Updated: 26/05/23 1:17am
Michael van Gerwen collected a record-breaking seventh Premier League Darts title at London’s O2
Michael van Gerwen won the Premier League title for a record-breaking seventh time after defeating Gerwyn Price 11-5 in the final at the O2 in London on Thursday night.
The Dutchman, who joined Taylor on six wins 12 months ago, overtook him after a masterful performance to beat Welshman Price with a blistering display of arrows.
Van Gerwen, whose participation was in doubt after withdrawing from last week’s final weekly round in Aberdeen with a shoulder injury, has dominated this competition since winning his first title 10 years ago.
No one loves the O2 stage quite like him and after edging a thrilling semi-final against rival Michael Smith, where he won 10-8, he got the better of Price in the final, finishing with a 105.4 average.
Premier League – Finals Night at London’s O2
Semi-finals Gerwyn Price 10-2 Jonny Clayton Michael Smith 8-10 Michael van Gerwen Final Gerwyn Price 5-11 Michael van Gerwen 
Van Gerwen and Price trade blows with an incredible run of checkouts in the Premier League final Van Gerwen and Price trade blows with an incredible run of checkouts in the Premier League final
There was nothing to separate the darting duo of Price and Van Gerwen in the first five legs before the Dutch ace broke throw with a jaw-dropping 139-170 to open up a 4-2 advantage.
He underlined his incredible scoring power by holding in the next and then breaking again with an astonishing 128 finish on double 10 to move 6-2 ahead, averaging 108 in the process.
Price responded with a fabulous 161 bullseye finish to reduce the arrears, but Van Gerwen knew he was just four legs away from the title at the interval.
However, four missed darts from the Dutchman allowed ‘The Iceman’ in for double 12 to trail 7-4, but MVG hit straight back with an 11-darter before sinking double 2 to edge ever closer to glory.
An exhibition 150 on double 18 moved Van Gerwen one away at 10-5 and it was all over in the next leg as he hit double 9 to retain his crown.
7 – Michael van Gerwen
6 – Phil Taylor
2 – Gary Anderson
1 – James Wade, Raymond van Barneveld, Glen Durrant, Jonny Clayton
MVG believes this is the start of a ‘beautiful year’ and that he is hungrier than ever MVG believes this is the start of a ‘beautiful year’ and that he is hungrier than ever
“I have been working really hard lately. Obviously, I had problems last week, we all know Gerwyn Price is in fantastic form, Michael Smith won the last three weeks,” said the 34-year-old.
“I get questions all the time about when I am going to do it again so I put the pressure on myself. I keep doing that but today it motivated me and I think that is probably what made me win.
“I think today I played some fantastic darts. What more can you wish for than to win this trophy?
“You always have to pick the right moments but to come back here in the O2 and play like guys like Michael Smith, Gerwyn Price in the final, you have to play your A-game.
“I had to do something special today and I was really glad I was able to do it. I worked hard for this.”
Watch the moment MVG secured his seventh Premier League title… Watch the moment MVG secured his seventh Premier League title…
Price is still searching for his first title and a brilliant campaign, where he won four of the weekly rounds, ends in ultimate disappointment.
He was crestfallen after the loss, saying: “I just couldn’t find the trebles, the doubles, I couldn’t find anything, that’s how it goes sometimes.
“I’m gutted. I just felt this one is the one that got away, I was missing by so far, I wasn’t even close, I don’t know what happened.”
Price took a quick break in the middle of the final against Van Gerwen to ‘repair’ his darts Price took a quick break in the middle of the final against Van Gerwen to ‘repair’ his darts
MVG gets revenge for world championship defeat
Van Gerwen defied a late rally from Smith to progress to a record-breaking ninth Premier League final
Van Gerwen defeated Smith 10-8 in a repeat of January’s historic world championship final in the semi-finals.
It was the St Helens star who made the better start by pinning a huge 128 finish for an early break of throw.
MVG then broke in 12 darts to snatch the lead from the world No 1 before reeling off four legs on the spin for a 5-2 lead.
Smith’s incredible 91 finish had the O2 on the edge of their seats. The delayed reaction was even better! Smith’s incredible 91 finish had the O2 on the edge of their seats. The delayed reaction was even better!
The Dutchman continued to throw some staggering darts, moving 7-3 up at the break and averaging 108.29.
Smith responded with a 114 checkout after the restart to reduce the deficit to three legs and a crucial 86 checkout saw ‘Bully Boy’ peg it back to 8-6.
Van Gerwen then squandered five darts at doubles, letting Smith in for a roof-raising 91 on the bullseye to trail 8-7, but MVG quickly regained his compose to move one leg away from victory.
Smith’s impressive resurgence continued with this jaw-dropping 123 checkout Smith’s impressive resurgence continued with this jaw-dropping 123 checkout
Smith saved the match thanks to a skin-saving 123 on the bull after ‘Mighty Mike’ failed with two match darts, but it was over in the next leg with Van Gerwen nailing double 10 to make it through to his ninth Premier League final.
Price wins all-Welsh showdown
Price proved too good for fellow Welshman Clayton in their semi-final clash
The first semi-final was an all-Welsh affair and it was Price who came out on top against Jonny Clayton with a storming 10-2 victory.
Price got off to a blistering start to take the first five legs without reply, Clayton averaging less than 86.
Price nailed a superb 131 checkout to defeat Clayton Price nailed a superb 131 checkout to defeat Clayton
Despite ‘The Ferret’ stopping the rot, Price’s consistency on the trebles continued, taking out a 12-darter in the seventh leg.
From there it was easy for ‘The Iceman’ and despite Clayton making it 8-2, he completed the win thanks to a fabulous 131 on tops.
The Iceman was left speechless after defeating World Cup team-mate Clayton The Iceman was left speechless after defeating World Cup team-mate Clayton
Take a look at the best of the action from Finals Night of the Premier League in London where MVG was simply the best! Take a look at the best of the action from Finals Night of the Premier League in London where MVG was simply the best!
What’s next on Sky Sports?
Simon Whitlock and Damon Heta will be defending their World Cup of Darts title
The annual World Cup of Darts will expand to 40 teams from the previous 32 in a revamped format which will feature a group stage and doubles matches throughout four days of action at Frankfurt’s Eissporthalle from June 15-18 as Australia defend the title.
In a radical change to previous years, the tournament will see Iceland, Ukraine and Bahrain set to make their debuts.
Catch all the action from the World Cup of Darts from June 15-18 – live on Sky Sports.
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Julio Enciso’s wonder goal against City from all angles
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Watch the best angles of Julio Enciso’s wonder goal for Brighton against Manchester City in their 1-1 draw in the Premier League.
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Ronaldo screamer completes stunning Al Nassr comeback!
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Cristiano Ronaldo kept Al Nassr’s slim Saudi Pro League title hopes alive with a sublime strike to complete their comeback against Al Shabab after being 2-0 down.
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Jimmy Butler hands out timeout receipt to Al Horford
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Jimmy Butler taunted Al Horford by calling a timeout for the Celtics, as the Boston center did the same thing in Game 1 against the Heat.
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Liverpool 1-1 Aston Villa | Premier League highlights
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FREE TO WATCH: Highlights from the clash between Liverpool and Aston Villa in the Premier League.
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PDC Women’s Series: Laura Turner on upsetting Beau Greaves and the race to the Women’s Matchplay
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Laura Turner
Sky Sports Darts commentator
Laura Turner upsets Beau Greaves at the PDC Women’s Series which sees four different winners as the race to reach the Women’s World Matchplay hots up; The Premier League Play-Offs return to The O2 in London on Thursday, May 25 – live on Sky Sports Action from 7pm
Last Updated: 20/05/23 10:34am
Laura Turner upset Beau Greaves and reached the Event Seven final at the PDC Women’s Series in Milton Keynes
Sky Sports’ Laura Turner upset Beau Greaves after another dramatic weekend of action at the PDC Women’s Series with the race to reach Blackpool heating up nicely.
Greaves dominated the opening weekend of the 2023 Women’s Series in February, claiming a hat-trick of titles at Leicester’s Morningside Arena, before Japanese sensation Mikuru Suzuki ended her remarkable 70-match winning run with Event Three success.
Live Premier League Darts
May 25, 2023, 7:00pm
Live on
Speaking on Love The Darts, Beau Greaves spoke about her experience at the World Championship and how she would do things differently next time Speaking on Love The Darts, Beau Greaves spoke about her experience at the World Championship and how she would do things differently next time
Teenage sensation ‘Beau ‘n’ Arrow’ came through a 118-player field to claim the £2,000 top prize in Event Five, while Welsh star Rhian O’Sullivan underlined her credentials to claim a maiden Women’s Series crown against Greaves in Event Six.
Ireland’s Robyn Byrne won her first title with success in Event Seven, defeating Turner 5-1 in the final before Suzuki swept to victory in Event Eight.
Turner recorded arguably the biggest scalp of her career to date as the Surrey thrower stunned Greaves 5-4 in the quarter-finals of Event Seven en route to the final.
“To beat Beau, who is the in-form player, I was really pleased,” she said. “I just ran out of steam in the end against Robyn, but she played really well all weekend. I would have taken that beforehand.
“We know the averages that Beau can put in although she didn’t quite find that top gear against me, but from my point of view it was all about holding my nerve. She missed three darts at double in the deciding leg. She gave me a chance and I was just pleased to have taken it.”
Greaves saw her remarkable 70-match winning streak come to an end at the Women’s Series
Turner believes the latest Women’s Series showcased the strength in depth on the tour, while the race to reach the Women’s Matchplay is still very much up for grabs.
“Beau has dominated the series since she joined the tour last year, but even before that it was always Lisa (Ashton) and Fallon (Sherrock) winning, so I think it’s great just to see the depth coming through,” Turner said. “Having four different winners and four quality winners, I think it’s testament because we are pushing and trying to compete.
“There really isn’t any easy games because you know that it’s such an open draw there can be some brutal matches. There is no switch-off time. You have to hit the ground running.”
1. Beau Greaves £18,100
2. Mikuru Suzuki £9,800
3. Rhian O’Sullivan £4,900
4. Robyn Byrne £4,500
5. Fallon Sherrock £4,150
6. Lisa Ashton £4,100
7. Aileen de Graaf £3,000
8. Lorraine Winstanley £2,700
11. Laura Turner £2,050
The Women’s Series returns on June 24-25 for a further four events, which will take place at Halle 39 in Hildesheim, with the top eight players on the rolling Women’s Series Order of Merit after Event 12 qualifying for the Women’s World Matchplay, which takes place on Sunday, July 23 at the Winter Gardens.
On the race to Blackpool, Turner said: “It’s still very open so it’s going to be an interesting one and it will go down to the wire.
“The weekend in Hildesheim is going to be big depending on who travels but I’m hoping to see quite a high number of entries heading over to Germany. It’s all down to performance on the day and the draw.”
“When the series has been dominated by the same players, you know you have to improve and you have to take those opportunities as and when they present themselves. We’re also getting used to playing in that environment. It’s competitive and exciting.
“I will be practising because I want to give myself an opportunity to do well. I want to progress and I want to make the Matchplay but I also want to perform and play well so there’s something I can keep taking forward.”
Mikuru Suzuki, who averaged over 94 in three of her six games in Event Eight, sits in second place on the Women’s Series Order of Merit
Turner, who works as a recruitment coordinator for her day job, also moonlights as a darts analyst for Sky Sports as well as playing regular events for her local team and on the Women’s Series, which makes for a hectic lifestyle.
Giving a run-down of her routine, Turner said: “I worked the day and then travelled up to Sheffield for Thursday night’s Premier League then left at 5 o’clock in the morning to get back for work and then I was up at the crack of dawn to head to Milton Keynes for the Women’s Series, so it can be tough but I wouldn’t change it for the world.
“I love the commentary side. I love playing the darts and appreciate everything that’s being put out there for us on the Women’s Series. By the time I got to the fourth event, I was pretty tired.”
The top two players from the final PDC Women’s Series Order of Merit will qualify to compete in the 2023/24 World Darts Championship, alongside the winner of the 2023 Women’s World Matchplay.
We’re back for more Premier League Darts action from London’s O2 for the Play-Offs on Thursday, May 25 – live on Sky Sports Action from 7pm.
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“That’s absolutely fantastic! That’s made my day!” | Tom Kim falls in muddy ditch | Video | Watch TV Show
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During the first round of the 2023 PGA Championship at Oak Hill, Tom Kim fell in a muddy ditch trying to retrieve his golf ball…much to the enjoyment of the Sky Sports commentary team.
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Ivan Toney suspension: Why the FA will apply to FIFA to make ban worldwide
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Rob Dorsett discusses the latest with Ivan Toney’s eight-month suspension, as the FA are set to apply to FIFA to make the ban worldwide.
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‘Jack Grealish over Ryan Giggs!?’ | Nev & Carra’s combined Man Utd ’99-Man City ’23 XIs
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As Manchester City get ever closer to winning the treble, Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville pick their combined teams from Manchester United’s legendary 1999 side and City’s 2023 squad.
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Mercedes upgrades: What to expect from W14 changes at Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Imola
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After weeks of speculation, Mercedes’ long-awaited upgrades to their W14 car are finally set to arrive for this weekend’s Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Imola.
The Silver Arrows realised as early as the beginning of March at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix that they had made an error by sticking with their design concept from the previous year.
There had been hope that untapped potential remained in the eye-catching ‘zero-sidepod’ look first seen on their previous W13 model, but it quickly became clear the new car would be unable to challenge Red Bull, who in 2022 emphatically ended Mercedes’ eight-year streak of constructors’ titles and have won all five races to start the new campaign.
Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton said as early as Friday practice in Bahrain that they were on the “wrong track” before team principal Toto Wolff conceded that the W14 design “didn’t work out”.
Ahead of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, look back at some of the most dramatic moments to have taken place around Imola Ahead of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, look back at some of the most dramatic moments to have taken place around Imola
Since then, it has been a case of damage limitation with Mercedes battling Aston Martin and Ferrari to finish behind the Red Bulls, and seven-time world champion Hamilton admitting he has been “counting the days” until the upgrades arrive.
There have already been repercussions in Mercedes’ senior leadership team, with James Allison returning as technical director in place of Mike Elliott, who moved into the broader chief technical officer role.
With the waiting almost over, we have collated the most notable comments coming from the Brackley outfit to answer the key questions ahead of the upgrades being unveiled at Friday practice in Imola, live on Sky Sports F1.
Sky Sports’ Natalie Pinkham breaks down what to expect from the Emilia Romagna GP as F1 heads to the iconic Italian circuit Sky Sports’ Natalie Pinkham breaks down what to expect from the Emilia Romagna GP as F1 heads to the iconic Italian circuit
Why have the upgrades taken this long?
Given Mercedes realised they needed to make major changes at the first race of the season, some may wonder why it has taken them two-and-a-half months to have them ready.
Toto Wolff made an early concession that Mercedes had gone wrong with their 2023 car design Toto Wolff made an early concession that Mercedes had gone wrong with their 2023 car design
Mercedes trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin last week explained: “If we go all the way back to the test and race in Bahrain, that was where we realised that we didn’t have a package that was going to allow us to fight for a world championship – if we continued on that same development direction, we wouldn’t end up in a position where we felt we could challenge Red Bull.
“It was around that time that we took some decisions on how we develop the car, how the car works aerodynamically, and how we shape the characteristics of the car. In essence, how it is in terms of handling for the drivers to drive.
“What we are going to be bringing to the track in Imola is the first step of that work. This takes quite a long time to develop in the wind tunnel and you can’t just do these things overnight.”
Mercedes trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin has been explaining the upgrade process
Discussing upgrades on the Sky Sports F1 Podcast, Karun Chandok added: “They take as long as they take. I think that’s what people don’t understand – you can’t just think of an idea and just put it on the car for the next race.
“There’s a six-to-eight week lead time. You come up with an idea, design it in CFD (computational fluid dynamics) in the virtual world, then once you’re happy with that, you make a model which goes in the wind tunnel – there’s x amount of testing that has to happen with that.
“Then it goes to the composite department to make the parts and get them to the actual race, and that whole process is six-seven weeks at least.”
Are Mercedes ditching their ‘zero-sidepod’ concept?
When Mercedes unveiled their 2022 W13 model in Bahrain last year, the car’s lack of sidepods stunned the paddock.
Given the team’s incredible streak of titles and reputation for excellence, most assumed it was another moment of genius that would ensure more success.
Mercedes’ ‘zero-sidepod’ look was first revealed at 2022 pre-season testing Mercedes’ ‘zero-sidepod’ look was first revealed at 2022 pre-season testing
While the sidepods aren’t the only reason Mercedes haven’t reached the level they aspire to, they are undoubtedly a key element and appear set for a radical change in Imola.
As early as the Bahrain GP, then technical director Elliott said of new planned sidepods: “It won’t be the same as other people’s and it won’t be the same as we’ve got, it’ll be different.
“We have got a very different sidepod coming – I say very different, a different sidepod that’s coming.”
So yes, we can be pretty sure the sidepods are going to look different, but plenty of mystery remains around exactly what form they will take.
What other changes will there be?
Speaking at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in March, Hamilton made it very clear that changing the sidepods alone wouldn’t solve Mercedes’ issues.
“People keep talking about getting the new sidepods on the car but it’s not as simple as that,” the Brit said.
“You put the Red Bull sidepods on our car and it won’t change a thing, it literally won’t change a thing, it might even go slower.
Ted Kravitz looks at Mercedes’ changes at technical director, where James Allison returns to the role replacing Mike Elliott Ted Kravitz looks at Mercedes’ changes at technical director, where James Allison returns to the role replacing Mike Elliott
“It’s about aero characteristics, it’s how the car is balanced through the corners. There’s so many different elements that people of course would not know because they’re not aerodynamicists and you can’t see it – there’s a lot more to it.”
Aside from the sidepods, Mercedes had largely been reluctant to share much information about what would be changing, but Wolff gave his most detailed answer at the Miami Grand Prix earlier in May.
“What we are doing is we’re introducing a new bodywork and we’re introducing a new floor and we’re doing a new front suspension,” he said.
“That’s a pretty large operation, a large surgery and so there is going to be a lot of learning.”
Will the upgrades enable Mercedes to challenge Red Bull?
Red Bull have won all five races this season in dominant fashion, with Max Verstappen topping the drivers’ standings as he seeks a third successive title.
Given the stunning pace of the RB19, it’s difficult to see anyone closing the 122-point lead Red Bull have already opened up in the constructors’ standings, but just competing with them for wins would undoubtedly be a triumph.
Asked in Miami what he is expecting from the upgrades, Wolff said that in the “virtual world” the car is producing a “good lap time” but has repeatedly warned that suddenly challenging Red Bull is highly unlikely.
Max Verstappen wins the Miami Grand Prix, Sergio Perez finishes in second to bring home another Red Bull one-two, with Fernando Alonso claiming another podium Max Verstappen wins the Miami Grand Prix, Sergio Perez finishes in second to bring home another Red Bull one-two, with Fernando Alonso claiming another podium
“We need to manage our own expectations,” Wolff said. “Because we are bringing an update package that is going to consist of new suspension parts and bodywork and some other things but I have never in my 15 years in Formula 1 seen a silver bullet being introduced where suddenly you unlock half a second of performance. I very much doubt this is going to happen here.
“What I’m looking for is that we take certain variables off the table where we believe we could have introduced something that we don’t understand in the car and to have a stable platform. We shall see what our baseline is and what we can do from there.”
While Wolff is keen to manage expectations, Hamilton’s revelation that he’s been “counting the days” until the upgrades suggests that there is internal confidence of significant improvement.
Sky F1’s Martin Brundle and Nico Roseberg explain how Mercedes’ concept differs from Red Bull’s and assess the ‘massive job’ they face to close the gap Sky F1’s Martin Brundle and Nico Roseberg explain how Mercedes’ concept differs from Red Bull’s and assess the ‘massive job’ they face to close the gap
While it must be noted that Ferrari are also expected to bring major upgrades to Imola, Sky Sports F1’s Karun Chandhok believes Mercedes are hoping to establish themselves as Red Bull’s nearest challengers.
“I believe there’s a decent upgrade coming to the Mercedes in Imola, and I’m really intrigued to see where that moves them,” Chandhok said.
“I don’t think it will move them into Red Bull territory, but I think they’re hoping it will clear them ahead of Aston and Ferrari, that’s their ambition I think, but we’ll see.”
Will more Mercedes upgrades follow?
Once upon a time, Mercedes would have quite literally been able to build a completely different ‘B-spec’ car, but Formula 1’s budget cap and the sliding scale of aero testing allowed puts limitations on what they can do.
Despite those measures, Wolff confirmed that Mercedes have enough funds remaining to continue on the path they will reveal in Imola.
Wolff said: “Yes we do, because if you embark on a new development direction it’s that one project you concentrate on so that should be fine.”
While Wolff has said he believes Mercedes can win races this season, the ultimate aim of the concept change is to ensure the Silver Arrows can get back to competing with Red Bull over a full campaign.
Shovlin explained in his Miami GP review: “We do hope that it is quicker, we hope that it’s better in terms of qualifying and race pace.
“The key thing though is that we are not just looking to bring a lap time update, we are looking to head off in a different development direction. One that we think gives us a better chance in the long term of being able to challenge for race wins and world championships.”
Formula 1 returns to Imola for the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix from May 19-21. Watch every session live on Sky Sports F1 including the race from 2pm on Sunday May 21.
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Roberto De Zerbi celebrated like Jose Mourinho as Brighton stunned Arsenal
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Brighton head coach Roberto De Zerbi celebrated like Jose Mourinho during his side’s stunning 3-0 victory over Arsenal at The Emirates.
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Brilliant Ben Wilson save denies Chuba Akpom
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Coventry goalkeeper Ben Wilson produces a stunning save to deny Middlesbrough’s Chuba Akpom the opening goal.
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Denver Nuggets 125-100 Phoenix Suns | NBA highlights
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Highlights of the Denver Nuggets against the Phoenix Suns in Game 6 of the NBA Playoff Series.
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Premier League Darts: Michael Smith defeats MVG, Jonny Clayton and Gerwyn Price to win in Sheffield
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Michael Smith storms to a third consecutive nightly win with a 6-3 success against Gerwyn Price in Sheffield; P&J Live, Aberdeen will be the 16th of 17 individual venues on Thursday May 11 with the Play-Offs returning to The O2 in London on Thursday May 25
Last Updated: 11/05/23 11:42pm
Michael Smith secured a hat-trick of Premier League Darts nightly wins by defeating Michael van Gerwen, Jonny Clayton and Gerwyn Price en route to more stunning success in Sheffield.
Price could have guaranteed top spot with victory in the Night 15 showpiece, but the St Helens star cut the Welshman’s lead at the summit to just three points after claiming the spoils in the Steel City.
Premier League – Night 15 in Sheffield Results
Quarter-finals Gerwyn Price 6-2 Nathan Aspinall Chris Dobey 6-4 Peter Wright Michael van Gerwen 4-6 Michael Smith Jonny Clayton 6-4 Dimitri Van den Bergh Semi-finals Gerwyn Price 6-2 Chris Dobey Michael Smith 6-4 Jonny Clayton Final Gerwyn Price 3-6 Michael Smith 
Smith ended Michael van Gerwen’s hopes in Sheffield with this sensational 130 checkout on the bullseye Smith ended Michael van Gerwen’s hopes in Sheffield with this sensational 130 checkout on the bullseye
Smith began his campaign with a 6-4 win over reigning champion Van Gerwen, converting a stunning 130 checkout on the bull to defeat the Dutchman for a second week in succession.
The world No 1 continued his charge to defeat Clayton in a repeat of last week’s decider, averaging almost 108 and sealing the deal with a superb 11-darter.
Smith then capped off a terrific night of action by claiming the £10,000 winner’s bonus, extending his winning Premier League run to nine matches in the process.
Van Gerwen produced this brilliant 154 checkout against Smith Van Gerwen produced this brilliant 154 checkout against Smith
“Three in a row, it took me 15 weeks to win one night last year and now I’ve won four,” reflected Smith, who has leapfrogged Van Gerwen into second spot after his fourth nightly win overall. “I am still in with a chance of finishing top.
“Me and Gez spoke about it backstage before the match, if it’s me and him in the final next week he finishes top. Hopefully I can be top.
“I know you get nothing out of finishing top but it is the prestige. I have qualified last week and I could have just laid down and let anyone beat me. But I still need to go to The O2 playing well and winning.”
Smith says he spoke to Gerwyn Price after their match and reminded the Welshman he can still finish in top spot Smith says he spoke to Gerwyn Price after their match and reminded the Welshman he can still finish in top spot
Price – who was victorious in Sheffield 12 months ago – retained top spot after storming through to his eighth nightly final of 2023 with 6-2 wins over Nathan Aspinall and Chris Dobey.
In the evening’s other quarter-finals, Clayton moved two points clear of Aspinall ahead of their decisive Night 16 showdown, courtesy of a battling 6-4 victory against Dimitri Van den Bergh.
The 2021 champion conjured up a spectacular 170 checkout midway through the tie, and registered his sixth ton-plus average of the campaign to see off the Belgian.
‘The Ferret’ is in a straight shootout with Aspinall for the final spot, with the pair going head-to-head in the quarter-final next week in Aberdeen.
Jonny Clayton took out this brilliant 170 during his victory against Dimitri Van den Bergh Jonny Clayton took out this brilliant 170 during his victory against Dimitri Van den Bergh
Victory will assure the Welshman another appearance at The O2 while even if Aspinall wins the quarter-final he also has to win his semi-final.
“It’s massive,” Clayton said. “All the pressure is on Nathan next week. He has to win, the ball is in my court because if I win I am through. I am going to try and relax and play my game.
“I was shaking like hell up there. It’s two points that are going to be massive.”
Meanwhile, Dobey cemented sixth spot in the table with an impressive 6-4 success against Peter Wright, crashing in six 180s and reeling off four straight legs from 4-2 down to advance.
Peter Wright found this 126 checkout after Chris Dobey just missed out on a spectacular 170 finish Peter Wright found this 126 checkout after Chris Dobey just missed out on a spectacular 170 finish
Live Premier League Darts
May 18, 2023, 7:00pm
Live on
Where are we heading next?
Night 16 in Aberdeen: Thursday, May 18
Quarter-Finals Gerwyn Price vs Peter Wright Jonny Clayton vs Nathan Aspinall Michael Smith vs Dimitri Van den Bergh Michael van Gerwen vs Chris Dobey The Premier League roadshow heads to P&J Live, Aberdeen on Thursday May 18 for Night 16 of the league phase.
League leader Price meets Wright in his quarter-final tie, knowing that a run to next Thursday’s final will see him top the table for the first time in his Premier League career.
Clayton and Aspinall meet in a huge encounter with fourth spot on the line.
Clayton would confirm his Play-Off qualification with victory, while Aspinall must progress to the Night 16 final to overhaul his Welsh rival, who will qualify via nights won if the pair finish level on points.
Smith will begin his bid for an unprecedented fourth straight nightly win against Van den Bergh, while Van Gerwen and Dobey also collide for a place in the semi-finals.
2023 Premier League Schedule
Night 16 P&J Live, Aberdeen May 18 Play-Offs The O2, London May 25 We’re back for more Premier League Darts action from the P&J Live, Aberdeen on Thursday May 18 – live on Sky Sports Action from 7pm.
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Hull KR’s Lachlan Coote to retire at end of season after 15-year career in NRL and Super League
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Last Updated: 10/05/23 6:16pm
Lachlan Coote will hang up his boots at the end of the Super League season
Hull KR full-back Lachlan Coote will retire at the end of the Super League season after a 15-year career that also saw him play in the NRL.
Coote won three Super League Grand Finals during his time with St Helens from 2019 to 2021 as well as an NRL Grand Final while with the North Queensland Cowboys.
“I’m happy to announce that I will be retiring at the end of the 2023 season, it has been a very tough decision to make but I know it’s the right one for me and my family,” said Coote.
“Over the past 15 years, I have met so many great people and I’ve learnt so many valuable lessons within the sport. I’ll always be grateful for what rugby league has given me, thank you to everyone that has been a part of my career.”
More to follow…
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Awoniyi scores his second to make it 2-0!
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Awoniyi scores his second goal of the game to make it 2-0 to Nottingham Forest.
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Miami GP: LL Cool J’s pre-race introduction reviewed by Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen and other drivers
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Formula 1’s drivers were introduced to the grid at the Miami Grand Prix by musician LL Cool J in a ceremony that lasted more than seven minutes; Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton and several others offered a range of opinions on the event
Last Updated: 08/05/23 7:01am
Formula 1 drivers have offered a split verdict after the sport tried out a new look with musician LL Cool J introducing the drivers onto the grid ahead of Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix.
The 20 drivers were introduced one-by-one in a ceremony that lasted more than seven minutes, and required the usual pre-race schedule to be altered.
Formula 1’s rapid growth in recent years has motivated those running the sport to maintain an innovative approach, as they seek to continue to extend its reach.
Along with LL Cool J’s appearance, fellow musician Will.i.am released an F1 inspired single on Sunday to coincide with the race.
Highlights of the Miami Grand Prix at the fifth race of the season Highlights of the Miami Grand Prix at the fifth race of the season
The proceedings appeared to have little negative impact on the drivers, with an extremely clean race playing out as Max Verstappen caught Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez to extend his world championship lead.
However, the consensus after the race appeared to be that drivers feel like too much is being asked of them as they prepare to deliver an elite performance.
Here’s what they had to say:
Max Verstappen, Red Bull:
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen reflects on victory at Miami after climbing up from P9 to P1 Red Bull driver Max Verstappen reflects on victory at Miami after climbing up from P9 to P1
“Personally, I think it is just a personality thing. Some people like to be more in the spotlight, some other people don’t. I personally don’t, so for me I think that naturally what they did today is not necessary.
“I prefer to just talk to my engineers then put my helmet on and drive but of course I understand the entertainment value.
“I just hope we don’t have that every single time because it is a long season so we don’t need an entry like that every time but it also depends a bit on the crowd I think in terms of what you want.
“I think it is just a personal preference as well from the drivers.”
Sergio Perez, Red Bull:
Red Bull driver Sergio Perez pays homage to teammate Max Verstappen for being the stronger driver and taking victory at the Miami Grand Prix Red Bull driver Sergio Perez pays homage to teammate Max Verstappen for being the stronger driver and taking victory at the Miami Grand Prix
“I think as long as we don’t do it on too many occasions.
“I think it is nice to do it once for the crowd but we also have to be very respectful of the drivers.
“We need our own time to get ready and it is just minutes before the race starts and I think as long as it doesn’t happen very often it is ok.”
Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin:
Following his third-place finish at the Miami Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso says victory was ‘a little bit too easy for Max Verstappen’ Following his third-place finish at the Miami Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso says victory was ‘a little bit too easy for Max Verstappen’
“I understand the point of view of everybody but I am not a big fan of those things just before the race.
“If we have to do it, I think we need to remove some of the other stuff we are doing like the parade lap or something like that because it is really in the middle of the preparations and the strategy meeting.
“I disagree a little bit with if we do it we don’t have to do it everywhere because I don’t think the Miami fans are better than the Italian fans in Imola or in Spain or in Mexico or in Japan.
“I think we need to make everyone with the same rules and the same show before the race.”
George Russell, Mercedes:
“We spoke about it as drivers on Friday night. Everybody has got different personalities, I guess it is the American way of doing things and doing sport.
“Personally, it is probably not for me but that is just my personal opinion because I am here to race. I am not here for the show, I am here to drive and I am here to win, but I guess we have to roll with it.
Mercedes driver George Russell reflects on a successful Miami Grand Prix Mercedes driver George Russell reflects on a successful Miami Grand Prix
“It is distracting because we were on the grid for half an hour in our overalls in the sun and I don’t think there is any other sport in the world where 30 minutes before you go out to do your business that you are out there in the sun, all the cameras on you, making a bit of a show of it.
“I can appreciate that in the entertainment world but, as I said, we only want the best for the sport and we are open to changes but we wouldn’t want to see it every weekend.
“I don’t think it will be at every weekend, I think it will be at the big races.
“The thing I love every single race is the national anthem. That sort of pumps you up and is respectful to the country you are racing at but I have mixed feelings on the additional show.”
Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes:
Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton says he enjoyed racing at the Miami Grand Prix Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton says he enjoyed racing at the Miami Grand Prix
“I think it is cool that the sport is continuously growing and evolving and they are not just doing the same things they have done in the past.
“They are trying new things, they are trying to improve the show and I am in full support of it.
“I grew up listening to LL Cool J and then he is there, that was cool.
“You have got Will.i.am, who is an incredible artist. You have got Serena and Venus (Williams) standing there. It was cool.”
What’s next?
There’s a brief pause for breath before Formula 1 returns to Europe for a triple-header of back-to-back races.
The first of those is the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Imola from May 19-21, with Mercedes and Ferrari expected to bring significant upgrades which they hope will move them closer to Red Bull.
All eyes will be on Ferrari at the first of their two home races this season, with the team’s inconsistent start to the campaign likely to come under major scrutiny in front of the tifosi.
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