Touch Football Australia will be involved in the Inaugural Harvey Norman Beach Footy Tournament on 15-16 December 2006 at Maroubra Beach in Sydney. Some of the biggest names in Rugby League and some of Australia’s hottest celebrities will take to the sand in a 5-a-side format featuring a unique lifestyle event program.Harvey Norman Beach Footy will feature Beach Touch Football, fashion, and family fun together in an exciting event set against the backdrop of live music and entertainment.The unique concept is guaranteed to create a fantastic atmosphere for spectators and competitors alike who will be treated to a weekend of non- stop entertainment on and off the sand from 10.00am – 5.00pm Saturday 16 December, and 11.00am – 5.00pm Sunday 17 December 2006.The Beach Footy action is sure to be of the highest quality with six well credentialled teams set to battle for supremacy on the sand. The six teams are:Blues, Maroons, Young Guns, Kiwis, Celebrities, and a Touch Football Australia Invitational Women’s Team. National Rugby League superstars will captain and choose their respective teams for the event.Mark Gasnier (NSW) Darren Lockyer (Maroons) Billy Slater (Young Guns) and tournament ambassador Gordon Tallis (Celebrities), are among the team captains, and a host of Rugby league superstars including Matt Cooper and Danny Buderus will take to the sand.Harvey Norman Beach Footy is a free event and with fashion parades, cheerleaders, musical performances by Sony BMG artists, and even an appearance by Santa, there is sure to be something to please everyone on and off the sand.Touch Football Australia have extended invitations to players, via the High Performance Program, and the composition of the Women’s Team to represent the sport in the showcase event will be announced in coming weeks.The event will attract mass media coverage with Channel Nine, The Daily Telegraph, The Sunday Telegraph , and Nova 96.9 media partners for the summer beach party event.Touch Football Australia will release more information over coming weeks in the lead-up to this exciting tournament.More information about the event can be obtained by going to:www.beachfooty.com.au read more
Day 2 of the FIT World Cup will see a full program with the Mixed Open team playig three matches including an opening clash against traditional arch rivals New Zealand. This will be followed by the host nation South Africa and Jersey to round out the day, while all other teams will take the field twice. Both the Men’s and Women’s Open will look to continue their impressive start in matches against England and Japan.In the Seniors the Mixed 30s take on South Africa and Singapore, while the Men’s 30s play Japan and the host nation also. The Men’s 35s and 40s will put friendships aside when they battle each other, before the 35s face South Africa and the 40s FranceDay 2 Thursday 18 January AEDST Local 5.30pm 8.30am Mixed Aus v New Zealand5.30pm 8.30am Women Aus v England5.30pm 8.30am Mixed 30s Aus v South Africa7.20pm 10.20am Men Aus v England8.15pm 11.15am Men’s 30s Aus v Japan8.15pm 11.15am Men’s 35/40 Aus 35 v Aus 409.10pm 12.10pm Mixed Aus v South Africa10.05pm 1.05pm Men Aus v Japan11.00pm 2.00pm Women Aus v Japan11.55pm 2.55pm Men’s 30s Aus v South Africa12.50am 3.50pm Mixed 30s Aus v Singapore12.50am 3.50pm Mens 35/40 Aus 35 v South Africa1.45am 4.45pm Mens 35/40 Aus 40 v France2.40am 5.40pm Mixed Aus v JerseyCheck the website for all the results and news at the completion of the day’s play. read more
The Touch Shorts Newsletter is produced by Touch Football South Australia.Related Filesnewsletter_may_2010-pdf
Touch Football is one of 15 sports that is being offered at the Games, with teams from the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, Fiji and the combined states ‘Wanderers’ team taking part in the Touch Football part of the event. Touch Football will be played on Tuesday, 17 January and Wednesday, 18 January at King Lloyd Reserve, Newtown. The Australian Deaf Games were first held in 1964 and are the pinnacle of deaf sporting events in Australia, owned and managed by Deaf Sports Australia. Touch Football Australia’s General Manager – Business Operations, David Brady, is the Touch Football Competition Sports Convenor, and is looking forward to the event. “It is exciting to see Touch Football back at the national level through the Deaf Games, the last time it was played was during the late 1990’s when there were a series of Deaf State of Origins played,” Brady said. “Historically Queensland has been the dominating team in deaf Touch Football however they can expect a strong challenge from the ACT and Fiji for the Gold medal in both the Men’s and Mixed.”The event will be a new experience for many of the competitors, who will have the chance to play against each other in this kind of environment for the first time. “Playing any sport when everyone on the field is deaf brings a new set of challenges for all involved,” Brady said. The Australian Deaf Games is not all about winning medals, with junior deaf sports development sessions at each sport and a social program that enable athletes, officials, and spectators to meet and share stories of their respective games experience.To keep up-to-date with all of the results from the 2012 Australian Deaf Games, please visit the following website: www.austdeafgames.org.au read more
We’re just a few days from Christmas, which means that by now, you’ve likely heard every holiday-themed song out there at least a dozen times. But which are the best? We’re here to let you know.Of course, everyone will have a different list. Let us know what you think.10. Andy Williams – It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The YearRecorded in 1963, it was by far Williams’ biggest hit. But it wasn’t even the promotional single on his Christmas album – instead, White Christmas got the nod. Whoops.9. Jose Feliciano – Feliz NavidadFeliz Navidad, recorded in 1970, might be the simplest Christmas song out there – there aren’t really even any verses. But it’s upbeat and fun, and the back-and-forth between English and Spanish makes it unlike any other Christmas classic.8. Bruce Springsteen – Santa Claus Is Comin’ To TownProbably the most controversial inclusion on the list. Some people love Bruce, some people don’t see what the big deal is. Regardless, his live take on this classic is one for the ages. Recorded in 1980, released in 1981.7. Brenda Lee – Rockin’ Around The Christmas TreeYou likely haven’t attended a “Christmas party hop” in your lifetime, but back in 1958, that was apparently the thing to do. Brenda Lee’s half-a-century-old classic still holds up today, regardless. 6. Bing Crosby – White ChristmasFun fact – Bing Crosby’s version of White Christmas, according to Guinness World Records, is the best-selling single of all-time. But he didn’t write it – that distinction belongs to Irving Berlin. Crosby originally released it in 1942.Next: Songs 5 – 1 >>>Pages: Page 1 Page 2 read more
updated spreads for over 100 cfb games Flickr/401(K) 2012In May, we gave you a look at the betting lines on a number of college football’s most noteworthy games for the 2016 season, via Las Vegas sportsbook South Point. Monday, we’re getting a look at some updated information – and betting lines on dozens more contests.Professional sports handicapper Johnny Detroit, of WagerTalk.com, posted updated spreads for over 100 college football games this upcoming season. Some notes:Ohio State, which was a 9-point underdog to Oklahoma a month ago, is now only a 6.5 point dog.LSU is still a 3-point favorite over Alabama.Ohio State is now just a 5-point favorite over Michigan.Florida State is now favored by 1.5 over Clemson.It’s important to note that spreads don’t just move because of perceived team strength – they can move based on where bets are coming in, too.As a reminder, this does not include matchups for the first week of the college football season.September 10th:Tennessee (-11) vs. Virginia Tech Pittsburgh (-7) vs. Penn State Utah (-5) vs. BYU TCU (-6) vs. Arkansas Boise State (-6) vs. Washington State Iowa (-17.5) vs. Iowa State San Diego State (-5.5) vs. CaliforniaSeptember 17thNotre Dame (-6) vs. Michigan State Oklahoma (6.5) vs. Ohio State Nebraska (-2) vs. Oregon Alabama (-4.5) vs. Mississippi BYU vs. UCLA (Pick) Florida State (-2.5) vs. Louisville Northern Illinois (-1) vs. San Diego State Stanford (-6.5) vs. USC Texas (-2.5) vs. California Auburn (-6.5) vs. Texas A&MSeptember 23rdUSC (-1) vs. UtahSeptember 24th Arkansas vs. Texas A&M (Pick) LSU (-6.5) vs. Auburn Tennessee (-12.5) vs. Florida Mississippi (-8.5) vs. Georgia Michigan State (-5) vs. Wisconsin UCLA (-1) vs. StanfordSeptember 30thWashington (-4) vs. StanfordOctober 1stAir Force (-5) vs. Navy Florida State (-10) vs. North Carolina Oklahoma (-4) vs. TCU Oregon (-1) vs. Washington State Oklahoma State (-12) vs. TexasOctober 8thAlabama (-7.5) vs. Arkansas Mississippi State (-1.5) vs. Auburn Michigan State (-5.5) vs. BYU LSU (-8) vs. Florida Pittsburgh (-5.5) vs. Georgia Tech Texas Tech vs. Kansas State (Pick) Tennessee (-4.5) vs. Texas A&M Oklahoma (-11.5) vs. Texas Oregon (-4.5) vs. WashingtonOctober 15thMississippi (-1) vs. Arkansas Miami (-1) vs. North Carolina Texas Tech (-5.5) vs. West Virginia Washington State (-1) vs. UCLA Ohio State (-4) vs. Wisconsin Notre Dame (-3) vs. Stanford Alabama (-3) vs. TennesseeOctober 20thBoise State (-7) vs. BYUOctober 22ndAuburn (-3.5) vs. Arkansas Iowa (-4) vs. Wisconsin Texas vs. Kansas State (Pick) LSU (-9.5) vs. Mississippi Oklahoma (-8) vs. Texas Tech Ohio State (-9) vs. Penn State TCU vs. West Virginia (Pick)October 27thPittsburgh (-3.5) vs. Virginia TechOctober 28thSan Diego State (-1) vs. Utah StateOctober 29thOklahoma State (-10.5) vs. West Virginia TCU (-8.5) vs. Texas Tech Washington (-3) vs. Utah Florida State (-1.5) vs. Clemson Baylor (-4.5) vs. Texas Michigan (-2) vs. Michigan State Wisconsin (-4) vs. Nebraska Georgia (-2.5) vs. Florida Mississippi (-10.5) vs. AuburnNovember 5thArkansas (-6.5) vs. Florida BYU (-3.5) vs. Cincinnati Penn State (-1) vs. Iowa Oklahoma State (-4) vs. Kansas State Miami (-4.5) vs. Pittsburgh Ohio State (-12.5) vs. Nebraska USC (-3.5) vs. Oregon Texas Tech (-5) vs. Texas Baylor (-8.5) vs. TCU LSU (-3) vs. AlabamaNovember 10thUtah vs. Arizona State (Pick)November 12thGeorgia (-6.5) vs. Auburn Michigan (-4.5) vs. Iowa Texas (-5) vs. West Virginia Mississippi (-4) vs. Texas A&M Washington (-6) vs. USC LSU (-5.5) vs. Arkansas Oregon (-3) vs. StanfordNovember 17thHouston (-2.5) vs. LouisvilleNovember 19thOhio State (-4.5) vs. Michigan State Oklahoma (-8.5) vs. West Virginia TCU (-4.5) vs. Oklahoma State Oregon (-2) vs. Utah Stanford (-12) vs. California UCLA (-3.5) vs. USCNovember 25thIowa (-2) vs. Nebraska TCU vs. Texas (Pick) Arizona (-7) vs. Arizona State Washington (-2) vs. Washington StateNovember 26thMichigan State (-1) vs. Penn State Virginia Tech (-9.5) vs. Virginia UCLA (-7.5) vs. California Florida State (-11) vs. Florida Ohio State (-5) vs. Michigan BYU (-9) vs. Utah State Nevada (-1.5) vs. UNLV Alabama (-16) vs. Auburn Georgia (-13.5) vs. Georgia Tech Louisville (-18) vs. Kentucky Mississippi (-13.5) vs. Mississippi State USC (-6.5) vs. Notre DameDecember 3rdOklahoma (-13.5) vs. Oklahoma StateDecember 10thNavy (-13) vs. ArmyDo you agree with their spreads? Will you be making a few bets this year? read more
(Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)Lloyd Carr, the legendary former Michigan football coach, is stepping down from the College Football Playoff selection committee due to health reasons.Lloyd Carr, 71, announced the news today.“I regret that health reasons will prevent me from executing the responsibilities expected of a committee member,” he said in a release.Lloyd Carr stepping down from CFP committee for health reasons pic.twitter.com/uQQsWadNwu— angelique (@chengelis) August 19, 2016This was going to be Carr’s first year on the College Football Playoff selection committee. He was named to the committee along with Oregon athletic director Rob Mullens, former Southern Miss coach Jeff Bower and former Central Michigan coach Herb Deromedi in January, replacing Mike Gould, Pat Haden, Tom Osborne and Mike Tranghese.The first College Football Playoff rankings don’t come out until later this fall. read more
Santiago Solari is bemused as to how Real Madrid were not awarded a “textbook” penalty after Vinicius Jr appeared to be brought down in the area during Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Real Sociedad.Madrid were looking to move level with Sevilla on 33 points after their draw with Atletico Madrid earlier in the day, but from the early stages they were off the pace.Willian Jose got La Real off to a great start, scoring a penalty in the third minute after Casemiro clumsily felled Mikel Merino in the box. Article continues below Editors’ Picks ‘There is no creativity’ – Can Solskjaer get Man Utd scoring freely again? ‘Everyone legged it on to the pitch!’ – How Foden went from Man City superfan to future superstar Emery out of jail – for now – as brilliant Pepe papers over Arsenal’s cracks What is Manchester United’s ownership situation and how would Kevin Glazer’s sale of shares affect the club? After the break, Lucas Vazquez was dismissed for a second booking and then Vinicius seemed to be denied a clear penalty, the Brazilian going to ground after seeming to beat the sprawling Geronimo Rulli to the ball.No spot-kick was awarded and Ruben Pardo sealed the points late on, and Solari – who is under increasing pressure – is convinced his team were hard done by.Great start in the New Year @realmadrid 0 #RealSociedad 2 BETI REAL pic.twitter.com/Y6CNuh04lH — Real Sociedad (@RealSociedadEN) January 6, 2019 “Everything went against us,” Solari told Movistar.”We did not get into the game well, we had an unfortunate move in the second minute.”We did everything to turn it around and did not get any goal. We have had chances, but did not put them in.”And then there was that play that nobody understood why it didn’t end with a penalty. It seems to me like a textbook penalty.”In his post-match news conference, the Argentinian was eager to show some understanding towards the officials, though he was confused as to why no review of the incident appeared to happen.”We have not spoken with the referees,” he told reporters.”There are plays that seem obvious in real time, but we believe VAR technology is there to check.”We are all humans and make mistakes, but if you do not check to correct the mistake, it is difficult to understand.”Madrid are now 10 points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona, who edged past Getafe 2-1 courtesy of strikes from Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. read more
A lot has changed since Cristiano Ronaldo’s first international with Portugal, all the way back in 2004, when they lost on home soil to Greece in the European Championship.He is the only player involved that day who is still active as a professional, but this young Portugal team has gone one better than that illustrious Golden Generation.No silver medals for them, here in Porto, in the first-ever UEFA Nations League final. Article continues below Editors’ Picks ‘There is no creativity’ – Can Solskjaer get Man Utd scoring freely again? ‘Everyone legged it on to the pitch!’ – How Foden went from Man City superfan to future superstar Emery out of jail – for now – as brilliant Pepe papers over Arsenal’s cracks What is Manchester United’s ownership situation and how would Kevin Glazer’s sale of shares affect the club? They may still have Ronaldo, 34, Jose Fonte, 35, and Pepe, 36, involved in the international scene but Portugal’s depth is astonishing. They turn out players quicker and with more quality than most nations in Europe, as evidenced here by their second tournament win in three years.The Nations League may rank below the Euros and the World Cup in terms of priorities, but nothing begets winning better than winning. This is a squad now in the groove, with first international honours now coming to a clutch of emerging talents.Fernando Santos, the coach, excels at tournament football. At his disposal he’s got players comfortable in a number of different systems in a number of styles.They can keep the ball, they can play on the break, they can defend high, they can sit in. Between them they’ve got the wherewithal to morph into different shapes, as games and in-game situations develop.That is why, so long as they get their act together during qualification, they will be among the favourites for the multinational Euro 2020.By the time the next set of qualifiers roll around, one would presume Ronaldo will be available. He missed six matches after the World Cup before returning for the March Euro qualification phase.They currently have only two points from two matches in that domain and badly need their top scorer back and firing.It’s not so much that they rely on him like a one-man team but he adds so much even by his very presence.It’s a falsehood to say he doesn’t work hard or expects nothing but silver-platter service. He is happy to pitch in, press, defend corners and the rest of it. And just by being there, Ronaldo puts fear in the heart of the opposition. He stayed wide as a decoy as Goncalo Guedes put Portugal ahead on the hour from the edge of the box.The Valencia man had swapped passes with Bernardo Silva to get into the position, with the Manchester City playmaker the closest thing Portugal will have to a superstar once Ronaldo decides to depart.But all around the team, potential world-class talents are coming to fruition. Santos is probably strapped a little for choices at centre back but if they can source a decent young partner for Ruben Dias then they are on to a winner.The 22-year-old Benfica man is every bit as assured as Matthijs De Ligt at the other end, and defends with his mind as much as his body.The full backs here, Raphael Guerreiro and Nelson Semedo are at top clubs and are only 25. Joao Cancelo, of Juventus and coveted by Man City, didn’t get off the bench. Leicester City’s Ricardo Pereira, regarded by some as the best right back in England last season, didn’t even make the squad.To go along with established talents William Carvalho and Danilo in midfield you can add Bruno Fernandes, another one on the shopping list of the best European teams. It is easy to see why; he is tactically flexible, intelligent, adept at finding space and influential. Ruben Neves, who started the semi-final, is ready to step in while the likes of Joao Moutinho prepare to step down.Then there’s champions of the Euros like Renato Sanches, Joao Mario and Andre Gomes, by no means out of the international reckoning although not present here.And up front they have the coming force, Joao Felix. He had a difficult initiation to international football here, bundled about as he was by Switzerland in the semi-finals, but he will soon mature enough physically to do to better teams what he has been doing throughout 2019 for Benfica.That is to say nothing of Guedes, now back on track after a difficult spell at Paris St-Germain. Andre Silva has a goals-to-games record of about one in two. Then there’s Rony Lopes and Gelson Fernandes.Portugal are well stocked for the next decade or more, and there are no signs of the talent factories here in Porto or else at Sporting or Benfica closing down any time soon.In any case, judging by his current physical condition, Ronaldo probably has about another three or four years left. That will probably be long enough for the all-time international goalscoring and appearance records.But when he does decide to go, he will be departing a coming force. He may well be the last man standing from the runners-up of 2004, but it will be a long time before this Portugal side are ready to depart the scene. read more
AC Milan and Brazil midfielder Lucas Paqueta insists he is focused on his future at San Siro despite transfer rumours linking him with a summer move to Paris Saint-Germain. The 21-year-old only moved to Serie A last January after completing a big-money transfer from Flamengo, but his obvious talent has brought about speculation linking him with a move to Parc des Princes. Paqueta won a Copa America winner’s medal on Sunday after the Selecao completed a 3-1 victory over Peru to be crowned champions for the first time since 2007. Article continues below Editors’ Picks ‘Everyone legged it on to the pitch!’ – How Foden went from Man City superfan to future superstar Emery out of jail – for now – as brilliant Pepe papers over Arsenal’s cracks What is Manchester United’s ownership situation and how would Kevin Glazer’s sale of shares affect the club? Ox-rated! Dream night in Genk for Liverpool ace after injury nightmare The playmaker only made one appearance in the competition, coming on as a late substitute in the quarter-final penalty shootout win over Paraguay.A move to PSG could see him link up with fellow Brazilian Neymar, who will join the Ligue 1 champions for their pre-season preparations on July 15, according to his father, after he did not appear for club duties on Monday. But Paqueta is unphased by the rumours surrounding him, and told Goal: “It’s [the links with PSG] only speculation. I’m happy at Milan, I’ve just arrived and I’m adapting. I want to have a good season so I can grow in my career.”Paqueta displayed his technical ability on a number of occasions for Milan towards the end of last season and became an instant hit with fans.The Brazil international performed a rainbow flick on his audacious Serie A debut against Genoa, and went on to make a total of 13 league appearances. And Selecao legend Zico thinks Paqueta has no shortage of potential.”Paqueta is a small phenomenon,” the former Udinese player told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “He managed not to be crushed by the comparison with Kaka, one of Milan’s legends. He has everything to become a top player quickly.”He is a number 8, he is not an attacking midfielder. He likes to start from behind and gain momentum in the opponent’s penalty area. He can score lots of goals because he is also good with his head. Over time he can help Milan return to the fight for the Scudetto.”Paqueta could return to Milan for their pre-season fixtures against Bayern Munich, Benfica and Manchester United. read more
Joao Felix said beating your rivals is always special after Atletico Madrid humiliated Real Madrid 7-3 at the International Champions Cup.Diego Costa starred with four goals as Atletico showed no mercy in Friday’s pre-season clash in New Jersey, where Diego Simeone’s men led 5-0 at half-time.Joao Felix scored his first goal since arriving from Benfica in a blockbuster €126 million deal, and the Portuguese teenager also registered two assists in a dazzling display. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Emery out of jail – for now – as brilliant Pepe papers over Arsenal’s cracks What is Manchester United’s ownership situation and how would Kevin Glazer’s sale of shares affect the club? Ox-rated! Dream night in Genk for Liverpool ace after injury nightmare Messi a man for all Champions League seasons – but will this really be Barcelona’s? The 19-year-old revelled in the result, saying: “It’s positive. Beating your rivals is always good and special.”This win gives us confidence, but we will continue working like we’ve done until now.”I want to score as many goals as possible so that we can reach our objectives.”⏱ 90′ | 3-7 | ¡Final en el @MetLifeStadium!Nuestro equipo se apuntó el derbi de Nueva Jersey con una espectacular goleada 💪#AúpaAtleti #AtletiSummerTour #ICC2019 pic.twitter.com/yXYvVC9zT6— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) July 27, 2019Costa gave Atletico the lead after just 43 seconds before Joao Felix doubled the advantage in the eighth minute.Angel Correa replaced the injured Alvaro Morata and he made it 3-0 in the 19th minute and Costa added a fourth nine minutes later, while the latter converted a penalty on the stroke of half-time.Costa scored his fourth of the game six minutes into the second half before he was sent off following a clash with Blancos full-back Dani Carvajal.Vitolo scored a stunning solo goal for Atletico with 20 minutes remaining, while Madrid managed to pull some goals back via Nacho Fernandez, Karim Benzema and Javi Hernandez.Saul Niguez – who was influential for Atletico – added: “We’re happy with the result. We played well since the first minute and we’ve proven that we’re a team, we’re all together and that’s very positive.”When you wear Atletico de Madrid’s colours, you always have to give it your all. The new players have settled in very well and worked very hard.”For Real, it was an embarrassing result given their massive outlay on new players this summer, bringing the likes of Eden Hazard, Juka Jovic, Rodrygo and Ferland Mendy to the Santiago Bernabeu for significant transfer fees. read more
New Inter signing Romelu Lukaku has the quality to adjust his game and conquer the defensive prowess in Serie A, according to his former Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas.The Belgium international striker ended his two-year stay with Manchester United on Thursday by linking up with Antonio Conte’s Nerazzurri in a club-record deal reported to be €80 million (£74m/$90m).The move ended a protracted saga that has dominated the rumour mill throughout much of the window, with United clearly keen to move him out of Old Trafford. Article continues below Editors’ Picks Emery out of jail – for now – as brilliant Pepe papers over Arsenal’s cracks What is Manchester United’s ownership situation and how would Kevin Glazer’s sale of shares affect the club? Ox-rated! Dream night in Genk for Liverpool ace after injury nightmare Messi a man for all Champions League seasons – but will this really be Barcelona’s? United beat Conte’s Chelsea to Lukaku’s signature from Everton in 2017 for a fee reported to be in the region of £75m.He was first choice under Jose Mourinho and scored 16 Premier League goals in his debut campaign, but was often overlooked in favour of the more mobile Marcus Rashford once Ole Gunnar Solskjaer assumed the reins.Lukaku became the top target for new Inter coach Conte ahead of his first season at San Siro, but Juventus looked to have hijacked the deal, as reports claimed they had reached a personal agreement with the striker.The move to Inter reflects another challenge for Lukaku to overcome, but Villas-Boas backed his former striker to impress in Serie A.”He was an extremely powerful player. I was a little obsessed with my 4-3-3 in Chelsea. I positioned him on the wing and he was not very happy about it,” Marseille boss Villas-Boas said. “At the end of the year he left on loan to West Brom and Everton and later signed for Manchester United. He became one of the greatest strikers in the world. “He had a great pace using the spaces. You may not have many spaces in Italy. Italians have great defensive skills. It may be a little difficult for him, but he has a great technical touch.”His challenges in the air are amazing. I do not know how Conte will play and exploit the best of Lukaku.”He’s obviously a good player. He’s a very good person, humble. I knew good times with him.” read more
TUSCALOOSA, AL – SEPTEMBER 29: Jalen Hurts #2 of the Alabama Crimson Tide looks to the sidelines for the play call against the Louisiana Ragin Cajuns at Bryant-Denny Stadium on September 29, 2018 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)ESPN college football analyst Paul Finebaum shared some noteworthy Jalen Hurts news during an appearance on First Take this morning. The SEC guru revealed that Hurts did look at other schools before deciding to stay put at Alabama.Hurts, of course, was long rumored to be considering a transfer from Alabama. However, he’s opted to stay put in Tuscaloosa, Ala. – at least for this season.Finebaum reveals that he heard conflicting information, but he does believe Hurts looked elsewhere.“I think he looked (elsewhere),” Finebaum said, per 247Sports. “I’ve heard conflicting stories that he was on the verge of it until people said, look, you still have another year. The difference is, you all know, Jalen graduates in December and Kelly was out of time. I think Jalen has said, ‘you know what, I’m on the Alabama Crimson Tide and they’re best team in the country and I’m still playing a lot. I’m going to gut this out.’“But I think every reasonable person thinks he’s leaving in December or January, whenever the season ends.”Hurts will probably be leaving Alabama whenever the Crimson Tide’s season ends (the national title game, probably).Where will he be going?One analyst named four schools as possible destinations:“Possible destinations for Jalen Hurts: Texas – Texas native and would thrive in that offense Auburn – great scheme fit and the ultimate anti-bama move Miami – Might be a QB away from the playoff Oklahoma – Will be replacing Murray and loves transfers.”Possible destinations for Jalen Hurts:Texas – Texas native and would thrive in that offenseAuburn – great scheme fit and the ultimate anti-bama moveMiami – Might be a QB away from the playoffOklahoma – Will be replacing Murray and loves transfers— Mello (@melloesquire) September 8, 2018ESPN’s Tim Tebow had speculated that Auburn could be an option, too.(Finebaum just deleted the Tweet in which Tim Tebow speculates recklessly about Jalen Hurts transferring to Auburn. Hmm.)— Dan Wolken (@DanWolken) September 7, 2018For now, though, Hurts is clearly happy at Alabama. He’ll have a decision to make in a couple of months, though. read more
STILLWATER, OK – SEPTEMBER 5: The Oklahoma State Cowboys sing their school’s Alma Mater with fans after their 24-10 victory over the Georgia Bulldogs at Boone Pickens Stadium on September 5, 2009 in Stillwater, Oklahoma. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)Mike Gundy has spent 14 years coaching Oklahoma State football, his alma mater, and has turned the Cowboys into one of the sport’s most consistent teams.Since 2010, OSU has only finished with fewer than 10 wins twice. The team is currently riding three straight years with 10-3 records.Unless the program wins out, that streak will come to an end. Gundy’s club is 4-3 on the year, so we’re looking at what has become a rare down season for the Pokes.If things continue to go downhill for Oklahoma State football, would the program move on from Mike Gundy?It seems extremely unlikely. However, Coaches Hot Seat, which has a running ranking of the coaches in the most trouble, seems to think it is a possibility.In a new update, Gundy is ranked 10th, behind obvious hot seat names like David Beaty, Chris Ash, and Larry Fedora, and ahead of Bobby Petrino.Our guess…Texas beats OSU Baylor beats OSU Oklahoma beats OSU West Virginia beats OSU TCU beats OSU….and the Cowboys finish at 4 – 8 on the year and Mike Gundy is sitting around the Christmas Tree without a job but with $16 million dollars in the bank from his buyout!The writer doesn’t seem to be a big Gundy fan, but there is a chance that the team finishes outside of bowl eligibility.The Pokes are three-point underdogs at home against Texas this weekend. They may be favored at Baylor next week, but that may be the last time, with highly ranked Oklahoma and West Virginia teams after the Bears, and TCU on the road.So yes, OSU missing a bowl is definitely on the table. Firing Gundy though? That would be a big step.The veteran coach received a big contract extension in the Summer of 2017. At the end of last season, the school bumped his salary up to $5 million per year, making him tied for 10th in coaches pay per USA Today. His buyout will be over $16 million as of December.Gundy’s had something of a tense relationship with mega-booster T. Boone Pickens over the years, and he has looked around at other jobs, including Florida and Tennessee last off-season, but after a meeting with the Vols, he tweeted “Cowboy for Life!”Cowboy For Life! #GoPokes #okstate— Mike Gundy (@CoachGundy) November 29, 2017Letting him go after one down season seems like it would be a massive mistake.[Coaches Hot Seat] read more
MIAMI GARDENS, FL – JANUARY 05: A general view of the exterior of Land Shark Stadium as the Iowa Hawkeyes get set to play against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets during the FedEx Orange Bowl at Land Shark Stadium on January 5, 2010 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)Commitments for the Class of 2020 are trickling in slowly, but the Iowa Hawkeyes have done a good job getting out to a very fast start. The latest class rankings indicate that the team is on pace for one of the best classes in the country.Per 247Sports, Iowa’s 2020 recruiting class is currently ranked No. 11 in the country. The team is also ranked No. 3 in the Big Ten behind Ohio State and Michigan.Iowa is certainly aided by a conference-leading eight commitments, which includes the top-four in-state prospects. Among the in-state prospects are four-star defensive tackle Logan Jones, and a trio of three star prospects.At the quarterback position, the Hawkeyes appear to have found their man early with four-star pro-style thrower Deuce Hogan giving his commitment last June.There’s still a lot of time for the big programs across the country to pick up the pace though. Without a swath of four-star prospects and even a five-star, Iowa’s ranking could drop quickly.Nonetheless, Kirk Ferentz clearly has a plan in place for getting Iowa to take that next step in the Big Ten title race.Last year the Hawkeyes went 8-4 in the regular season before upsetting Mississippi State in the Outback Bowl to finish 9-4.[247Sports] read more
CHAPEL HILL, NC – NOVEMBER 05: General view of the game between the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Kenan Stadium on November 5, 2016 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)Mack Brown is only a few weeks from returning to the sidelines for the first time since resigning from Texas in 2013. Ahead of the new season, he’s chosen his new quarterback, too.According to InsideCarolina, Brown has named true freshman Sam Howell as his starting quarterback. Earlier this week, offensive coordinator Phil Longo indicated that Howell was in the driver’s seat for the role.“We’ve been looking at our quarterback situation very closely,” Brown said on Sunday inside the Kenan Football Center. “And we’re concerned about not having enough leadership on offense and one of your true leaders has to be your quarterback. The guys are in a tough spot because all three of them are good enough and all three of them are working hard enough, but Sam Howell will start taking the snaps with the blue team, our first team.”Howell was one of the top quarterbacks in the Class of 2019, and the highest-rated prospect to commit to UNC in the class. He garnered countless accolades as a four-year starter at Sun Valley High School.247Sports rated Howell as the No. 93 overall prospect in the country. He was the No. 3 dual-threat quarterback in the nation, and the No. 2 prospect from the state of North Carolina. Mack Brown has named true freshman Sam Howell North Carolina’s starting QB: https://t.co/wsXAxtPFu6 pic.twitter.com/Ys3mcXDLtz— 247Sports (@247Sports) August 18, 2019Howell’s tenure at UNC will start as a baptism by fire though. The first few weeks of the season includes games against South Carolina, Miami, Appalachian State, and defending national champion Clemson.But Howell will have an experienced offensive mind in Mack Brown to show him the ropes.Can Brown and Howell return the Tar Heels to their winning ways in 2019? read more
“Harbaugh will get it done this year,” Spears said this week on ESPN’s Get Up!. “Bringing in [Josh] Gattis, Shea Patterson another year in the system, and I also believe Harbaugh is more open to letting this offense kind of be an advantage for the guys that are actually in the offense.“I just can’t wrap around my mind that Harbaugh is going to lose to Ryan Day. If this was Urban Meyer — he’s gotten the pass because of Urban Meyer, not because of the players — because this was Urban Meyer’s team that was beating him. Now, you bring in a first-year head coach and a transfer quarterback that hadn’t seen a lot of time? You lose this game, Harbaugh will be on the hot seat at Michigan.”Day took over for Urban Meyer after he stepped down following last season.Michigan is hot pick for the College Football Playoff this year, but then again, the Wolverines were last year as well. In fact, they headed into The Game will a real shot at qualifying for the event. But they were blown out, 62-39, in a game that wasn’t even as close as the score indicates.It’s going to be a big season in Ann Arbor. We’ll see if Harbaugh can finally get it done. PISCATAWAY, NJ – NOVEMBER 10: Head coach Jim Harbaugh of the Michigan Wolverines coaches against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the third quarter at HighPoint.com Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Michigan won 42-7. (Photo by Corey Perrine/Getty Images)Jim Harbaugh has been the head coach at Michigan for four years, but he’s yet to beat his program’s main rival – Ohio State. One prominent ESPN analyst can’t see a way that he doesn’t finally notch his first win against the Buckeyes this season.Marcus Spears appeared on Get Up! on Thursday and proclaimed that he “can’t wrap his mind around” the idea that Harbaugh could lose to new head Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day. He also thinks that if Harbaugh does lose the game, he’ll be on the hot seat.It’s a bold statement, to say the least. Michigan hasn’t exactly been successful against Ohio State this century. The Wolverines have beaten their rival just twice in that time frame.Here’s the quote, via 247 Sports: read more
Conflict of Interest allegation against Sachin Tendulkar infructuous: BCCI ethics officerMadhya Pradesh Cricket Association life member Sanjeev Gupta had alleged Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman have a Conflict of Interest due to their dual roles as mentors of IPL franchises and members of Cricket Advisory Committee. advertisement Press Trust of India New DelhiMay 27, 2019UPDATED: May 27, 2019 21:34 IST Sachin Tendulkar (India Today Photo)HIGHLIGHTSJustice DK Jain rubbished the allegations in a 2-page verdict on MondaySachin and Laxman were alleged of Conflict of Interest by MPCA life member Sanjeev GuptaSachin Tendulkar had refused to be part of CAC unless he is provided with agreeable terms of referenceBoard of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Ethics Officer Justice DK Jain on Monday dismissed the ‘conflict of interest’ allegations against Sachin Tendulkar after the cricket icon refused to be part of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) unless he is provided with agreeable ‘terms of reference’.Jain in a two-page verdict described the allegations as “infructuous” (pointless), ruling that the matter had to be disposed of after Tendulkar made his position clear that he will not “act as such” a member of the CAC.”Once the BCCI furnished the terms of reference and tenure, he will decide on the course of his participation in the same. Mr Tendulkar doesn’t consider himself to be part of any Cricket Advisory Committee and will not act as such. In consequence, the present complaint doesn’t survive for adjudication.””….resultantly, the present complaint is rendered infructuous and is disposed of, as such,” Jain wrote in his verdict.Jain, who is also BCCI Ombudsman, said Tendulkar, through his legal Counsel Amit Sibal had issued a statement, which was enough to dismiss the case.Tendulkar’s legal counsel’s statement read: “Without prejudice to his rights and contentions in the present proceeding, Mr. Sachin Tendulkar wishes to reiterate that he has been requesting BCCI since the inception of the CAC that terms of reference and his tenure is furnished to him.”He has requested this repeatedly and several times over the years including as recently as on 7.12.2018. He is now left with no other choice but communicate to BCCI that until and unless the BCCI furnishes the terms of reference and tenure of his appointment in the CAC, he has decided not be part of any committee of the BCCI including the CAC.”advertisementIt effectively means that Tendulkar won’t be a part of the new coach selection process after the World Cup unless CoA gives proper terms of reference.It was Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) life member Sanjeev Gupta, who had alleged that both Tendulkar and VVS Laxman are conflicted for performing dual roles as CAC member as well as mentor/icon with their franchises Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad respectively.However, Tendulkar in his affidavit had categorically denied that he has any financial agreement in both his roles and hence doesn’t come under tractable ‘conflict of interest’.It has been learnt that CoA is ready with terms of reference and will be handed over to him now that the case is over.Also Read | Virat Kohli captain on paper but MS Dhoni on ground: Suresh RainaAlso Read | World Cup 2019: Waqar Younis feels Pakistan capable of reproducing 1992 magicAlso See:For sports news, updates, live scores and cricket fixtures, log on to indiatoday.in/sports. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for Sports news, scores and updates.Get real-time alerts and all the news on your phone with the all-new India Today app. Download from Post your comment Do You Like This Story? Awesome! Now share the story Too bad. Tell us what you didn’t like in the comments Posted byAkshay Ramesh Tags :Follow Sachin TendulkarFollow Cricket Advisory CommiteeFollow BCCIFollow Mumbai IndiansFollow BCCI Conflict of InterestFollow VVS LaxmanFollow Justice DK Jain read more
Akshay Ramesh ManchesterJune 16, 2019UPDATED: June 16, 2019 10:32 IST A sell-out is expected at Old Trafford, Manchester for India vs Pakistan (Getty Images)HIGHLIGHTSIndia and Pakistan will face-off on June 16 in ManchesterThe build up to the game suggests that it could be the most watched cricket match in historyThe 2011 World Cup final between India and Sri Lanka holds the current viewership recordThe stakes are high. Thousands of fans from across the globe have arrived in Manchester for Round 7 of India vs Pakistan at World Cups but will the weather gods show some mercy on the stakeholders?Tickets were sold out for India vs Pakistan, ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 within minutes of the opening of ticket window. Some of them are reportedly being resold at a cost of upto Rs 60,000. There is arguably no bigger event in world cricket at the moment than a meeting between the arch-rivals and neighbours.After months of waiting, the big day is finally here. India and Pakistan are set for their 7th meeting in World Cups as Manchester gears up to host the “marquee” match at Old Trafford.Thousands of fans from across the globe, including Sudhir Kumar and Chacha Chicago, have arrived in Manchester. The home of Red Devils and the Sky Blues going to be painted blue and green on Sunday.What about viewership? India-Pakistan World Cup clashes are among the most-watched cricket games in the history of the sport. The 2011 World Cup semi-final still is the second most watched cricket game with a reported 495 million viewers only behind the Mumbai final between India and Sri Lanka (558 million).The upcoming tie could just dethrone the 2011 final, considering the recent history between the two neighbours. Pakistan are confident of opening their World Cup account vs India after the 2017 Champions Trophy final win. India, well, they are certainly a cut above the chasing pack in England this year.advertisementHowever, all the stakeholders are at the mercy of rain gods who have been busy in England over the last few days. In fact, they are right on top of the World Cup 2019 points table with 8 points after 4 washed out matches, including India’s meeting against New Zealand on Thursday, so far.Weather prediction for Sunday in Manchester might have given travelling fans a sleepless night. Back home, even the most optimistic fans would have worked on a few back-up plans for Sunday evening.Light showers are predicted in the second half of the match but the main concern is over the condition of the Old Trafford turf due to the rainfall in the days leading up to the India-Pakistan match.Harbhajan Singh, World Cup-winning India off-spinner speaking to India Today on Saturday, said he discussed the issues with Old Trafford’s drainage. Notably, only the centre wicket and the square was covered on the eve of the match even as it rained cats and dogs in Manchester.Batting great Sunil Gavaskar blasted the England and Wales Cricket Board for the lack of rain readiness and empathised with the fans, saying “the entire world is waiting to watch India and Pakistan play”. The former India opener said ECB should be held accountable if the rain gods decide to dampen the spirits of the fans from the two cricket-crazy countries.Amid all the talk around the weather, the two teams went about their pre-match duties in a nonchalant matter, leaving the rest to the rain gods.Captain Virat Kohli played down the hype surrounding the India-Pakistan World Cup matches. On the other hand, Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur, it seems, has done a Kabir Khan from Bollywood blockbuster ‘Chak de India’ in order to get the Pakistan players fired up for the blockbuster.India have beaten Pakistan 6 times in as many attempts in World Cups but their upcoming match-up is still the prominent narrative of World Cup 2019. What makes it so special despite the one-sided record?Ask the master, Sachin Tendulkar. Speaking to India Today ahead of Sunday’s Manchester meeting, the batting great said it’s impossible to avoid butterflies in the stomach ahead of India-Pakistan matches at World Cups.”Sometimes in a press conference, players want to play that low key message but in your mind, you know it’s different as people react to it differently,” Tendulkar said.”Every run/wicket matters. In the end, you still have to play cricket. Mentally it’s all about absorbing pressure, staying calm, staying in the present.”Apart from the India and Pakistan cricketers, the ECB may also be feeling the heat this time around.Also Read | India vs Pakistan: Mohammed Shami likely to replace Kuldeep Yadav in crucial World Cup matchAlso Read | India vs Pakistan: Mohammad Amir inspired by memory of late mother ahead of Manchester tieFor sports news, updates, live scores and cricket fixtures, log on to indiatoday.in/sports. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for Sports news, scores and updates.Get real-time alerts and all the news on your phone with the all-new India Today app. Download from Post your comment Do You Like This Story? Awesome! Now share the story Too bad. Tell us what you didn’t like in the comments Posted byAjay Tiwari Tags :Follow World Cup 2019Follow India vs PakistanFollow Virat Kohli India vs Pakistan, World Cup 2019: Will June 16 witness the most-watched match in cricket history?As India and Pakistan gear up to meet for the 7th time in World Cup history, the anticipation surrounding the match could boost the viewership numbers to a never-seen-before highadvertisement Next read more