Sharks Visiting With Free Agent Tackle Bryant McKinnie

By Cody Strahm a' Dolphins Gab The Dolphins are hosting a free-agent tackle today.ABut itas not the player every one thought it would be. Bryant McKinnieAis apparently in South Florida and ending up in the Dolphins.AHe will receive a physical but no deal has been offered yet. McKinnie won a Super Bowl last year in Baltimore and made the Pro Bowl in '09 with Minnesota. But heall be 34 years of age in September andAdidnatAstart a game in the regular time this past year for the Ravens. It's been recognized that the Dolphinsa treatment for their dilemmas at handle could be signing Eric Winston and trusting Jonathan Martin to protect Ryan Tannehillas blindside. But showing fascination with McKinnie shows the Dolphins might be far from obsessed about Martin beginning at left tackle. Go HERE to Learn The Rest! By Cody Strahm a Dolphins Gab The Dolphins are hosting a free-agent... Ohio Dolphins WR Mike Wallace just stirred up an important hornets nest,... The NFL Draft has determined, and today we simply take still another look at... By Kyle Gans Because the Cleveland Browns returned to the group, in... NFL Network has their model of the aTop 10 Steelers of All-Time,a... By Jesse Ferguson Itas NFL sentimenta' or even ethical lawa' that an... Visit DerbyDeals.com for a great collection of Kentucky Derby Passes and Kentucky Derby Offers.

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Poll: Who’s your Euroleague Most Valuable Player?

The BallinEurope ballot for Euroleague MVP and All-EL first team was laid bare this morning and whoo, there's some early backlash. So let's throw out the question then. Here it is. Who do you like?

Manchester United Summer Transfers: 5 Rumours Fans Want to Believe in

When the summer comes, it's almost a rude awakening not to see the Red Devils purchase the players they'd been heavily tipped to sign throughout the year.

This season has seen no end to the usual transfer tittle tattle, with several big names once again hyped for a move to Old Trafford.

The Spanish attacking midfielder has scored 11 goals in all competitions, including three in the Champions League, but it has been his all-around genius that has captured the eye of everyone in the footballing world.

Citing "Spanish reports," the Daily Star claimed late last year that Isco could soon be lured to United for as little as £16 million.

"Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson is likely to view the attacking midfielder as an ideal replacement for veteran Paul Scholes," the story states.

Gareth Bale's presence at Manchester United's recent clash with Real Madrid at Old Trafford set tongues wagging in the gossip columns (via Daily Mail).

Was he there to scout his future club? Could there be secret meetings happening behind the scenes between the Welshman and United officials?

OK, so the answer to these questions is more than likely no, but that doesn't mean fans of the Red Devils can't live in hope of seeing him one day play for Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

Bale has had a barnstorming season, developing into a true all-round attacking threat at current club Tottenham Hotspur.

Along with United's own Robin van Persie and Liverpool's Luis Suarez, he is a clear front-runner in the race for the Premier League's player of the season award.

PSV's box-to-box midfielder Kevin Strootman has long been a player tipped by United fans as a potential future signing.

The Dutchman would provide the Red Devils with a real physical presence in front of the back line, as well as being an effective conduit going forward through the middle.

According to the story, "United and Arsenal are battling to capture PSV Eindhoven's £17 million-rated midfielder Kevin Strootman."

According to a report in the Daily Mail last month, "Manchester United scouts watched Porto and Colombia star James Rodriguez against Rio Ave on Saturday as the club ponder a move for the winger."

The price quoted by the tabloid is an eye-watering £36 million—an extraordinary amount despite the player's obvious talent.

Only last week did I write a piece extolling the virtues of Rodriguez, claiming he would be a perfect signing to compliment Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie in the United lineup.

The Daily Mail believe Rodriguez could be the "new Carlos Valderrama," or the "new South American Cristiano Ronaldo" or even the "new Nani."

Last, but certainly not least, we have the rumour that any Manchester United fan would be crazy not to wish would come true.

Cristiano Ronaldo left Old Trafford in 2009, but according to several news outlets, a dream return to the club where he made his name could one day become a reality.

Club legend and current director Sir Bobby Charlton revealed that the Portuguese superstar would be welcomed back with open arms.

Speaking at the Laureus Sports Awards in Rio de Janeiro, Charlton said "I'm a fan of him like anyone else and on a personal level I would like to see him back. I can't say anything more than that" (h/t The Sun).

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Jones vs. Sonnen Results: Is Jon Jones the Most Dominant UFC Champion?

UFC champ Jon Jones once again proved why he's the king of the light heavyweight division with his utter domination of Chael Sonnen at Saturday night's UFC 159.

Despite suffering a broken toe in the first round, Jones was able to repeatedly take down Sonnen—a feat few, if any, fighters in MMA can boast—before finishing the "Gangster from West Lynn" with strikes for the technical knockout victory.

While the win was certainly impressive for the UFC's youngest title holder, Jones still has some work to do before he can be crowned the promotion's most dominant champion. However, that list of steps is dwindling quickly.

Comparing the light heavyweight king with the UFC's other reigning champs, the two legacies Jones would have to surpass in order to become the top name in the sport are obviously middleweight champ Anderson Silva and welterweight title holder Georges St-Pierre.

Silva and St-Pierre have dominated their respective divisions for years, taking out every big name and challenger to face them. While Jones is on a similar trajectory, he hasn't held on to the belt for as long as the other two.

Where Jones' title run stacks up with MMA's pound-for-pound leaders is his performance over his division's biggest names.

In less than two years, "Bones" was able to mow down the best 205ers in the world, including five former light heavyweight champs. He also out-wrestled a former NCAA Division I All-American wrestler in Chael Sonnen.

Another mark of a dominant champion is the way he or she is able to deal with adversity. Jones has exemplified that trait in his last two outings, refusing to tap out to Vitor Belfort's armbar attempt and finishing Sonnen Saturday night despite his broken toe.

Silva has gone through some trouble during his reign, most notably in his UFC 117 battle with Sonnen, when he just barely won via triangle-armbar.

St-Pierre, who's been on a tear since coming back from his injury, has also faced trouble, highlighted by his shocking losses to Matt Serra and Matt Hughes. However, the Canadian was able to rectify both defeats.

At such a high level, it's so difficult to decide who is the best of the best considering nearly every champ's skill set and current winning streak. But if Jones can keep taking out these big names with big finishes, it won't be long until Bones takes the title as the greatest of all time.

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SEC Match 2013: Predictions for Every Single Sport of the Match

Georgia compared to. LSU The Bulldogs beat LSU in the home in the teams' only meeting with this time. LSU has significantly improved since that game, although. The Tigers have not been able to continually take on the elite teams of the SEC, but they have been able to play well at home against a number of the more normal teams in the league. The Bulldogs have been playing perfectly also. They won two of their final three games, dropping their final game on a destructive half-court buzzer-beater to Alabama. Both groups have improved, but the Bulldogs showed the very first time around that they're the better team. Pick: Atlanta Mississippi State versus. Tennessee The Volunteers got warm at the proper time, reported by users. Tennessee has won ten of its final seven games and has played its way in to competition for an NCAA event bid. If they fell to Mississippi State, though that would all vanish rapidly. The Bulldogs have struggled for most of the year, including suffering a 13-game losing streak. Just how Tennessee has been playing of late, this game isn't anticipated to be much of a contest. Pick: Tennessee Vanderbilt versus. Illinois Arkansas got one on the chin when it went on the street to play Vanderbilt in February. The same could be said for when Vanderbilt went along to Arkansas in January. Since the first two activities were the rubber match should really be as uncompetitive. Vanderbilt has was able to win four of its last five games and is playing far better, but its crime is too flat to help keep pace with the Razorbacks. Pick: Illinois Arizona A&M versus. Missouri This season could be no wronged at home by the Missouri Tigers do, but alternatively they could do nothing close to the trail. When they got on the Aggies in College Station one of their path fiascos came. Mo came aside against the Aggies on the road, and it ultimately cost the overall game to them. The same shouldn't be anticipated to occur these times. Missouri is much more talented then Texas A&M, and this season will be shown in their second meeting by that. The most interesting storyline to follow: Which Missouri team will turn up to a neutral site? The one that couldn't lose at home, or the one that could not gain on the road? Pick: Mo

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NCAA Tournament 2013: Players That Will Shine During Sweet 16

This year's NCAA tournament has entered the Sweet 16, which is where the players from certain teams truly start to separate themselves from the rest of the pack. That said, fans should be excited for the bevy of talent they'll be able to watch in the coming days.

From lights-out shooters to incredible slashers, this year's Sweet 16 is full of players that have shone bright both in the regular season and in the tournament. Though the pressure has been turned up, this is just another chance for them to continue doing what they've been doing and keep playing some excellent basketball.

This means that fans should be excited to see Indiana continue to play well after a nailbiter against Temple last weekend, not to mention a Florida team that seems destined for greatness despite being the sole solid team in a weak SEC.

Though he is not necessarily a strong jump shooter, Smith has done a great job of stepping up his effort for the No. 1 seed Cardinals in the tourney. Over two games, he is averaging 25 points and five steals per game. Yes, the latter number is a bit inflated, but it still shows how good an on-ball defender Smith is when he is fully locked in.

Smith has also shot 55 percent from the field in the tournament, which is well above his season mark of 42 percent. This young man is fully committed to being his team's leader on the floor and in the Sweet 16, that's only going to improve Louisville's chances of reaching the Elite Eight.

Victor Oladipo isn't going to put up huge scoring numbers game after game, nor is he going to send fans into a frenzy with regularly deep three-point shooting. However, his athleticism will keep fans on the edge of their seats until his playing days are over, and his performance in the tourney this year has been no exception.

The junior has posted just 13.5 points per game this tournament, but his seven rebounds and field-goal percentage of 53 are quite impressive for someone just 6'5", 214 pounds. Oladipo has proven time and time again that he'll do whatever it takes to get his team a win, be it shouldering the scoring load or playing great on-ball defense, and a Sweet 16 matchup against Syracuse will be no exception.

Oladipo is going to shine brighter than ever before against the Orange, and a strong night from him will ensure a Hoosiers trip to the Elite Eight.

Rosario averaged 12.5 points and shot 38 percent from the field in his senior season with the Gators, but his round of 32 performance against Minnesota made him a player to watch in the Sweet 16. Against the Golden Gophers, Rosario scored 25 points and had six three-pointers, helping carry the team from start to finish.

He isn't the most athletic of guards at 6'3", 183 pounds, but Rosario has definitely established himself as a fine shooter this tournament, not to mention someone who has a strong ability to penetrate the lane. Against a feisty Florida Gulf Coast squad, look for him and his teammates to give the Eagles a lesson in what it takes to be a truly elite program.

Washington Redskins Will Finally Upgrade Field Conditions at FedEx Field

After much criticism and complaints from players, coaches and just about everybody, officials with the Washington Redskins announced Tuesday plans to redo the field at FedEx field—literally from the ground up, according to Washington, DC radio station ESPN 980.

The biggest part of the resurfacing plan is something that has never occurred at FedEx Field. The Redskins' groundskeepers will remove and replace the midfield sod during the season—a 22-day span in November when the Redskins will face the San Diego Chargers at home then travel for two consecutive weeks.

The new mid-season turf, which will run the length of the field and between the "bottom of the numbers" on each side of the field, will be ready for the team's home game November 25 against the San Francisco 49ers.

ESPN 980 reporter Chris Russell reported the story after a lunch meeting and walking tour April 23 with team officials as they described work that has been approved and, in some cases, has already begun.

The poor field condition was mentioned as a factor in the knee injury to quarterback Robert Griffin III—who clearly lost his footing on more than one occasion during the teams loss to the Seattle Seahawks in their NFC Wild Card Game last January.

Despite his team's victory, Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll was critical of the poor playing surface. "The field was horrible. As bad as a field can get," Carroll remarked, "We deserve better."

Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman, who is not shy in front of the camera, didn't mince his words one bit in a post-game interview.

"It was awful. ... There was no real traction in it. On top of [that], there were giant divots. On the field, when you cut and stuff, there are gonna be divots in the grass, but usually the grass is matted down so that the divots aren't big and they don't keep coming up. But they were friggin' potholes out there."

According to Russell, part of the work to be done at FedEx Field has already begun with the groundskeepers working on the field for the first time in four seasons. The field was excavated to the base because team officials realized the core of the problem was with the root system of the turf not receiving adequate drainage due to a backup of debris, silt and grass clippings.

As early as the first week of June, the field will be relaid with turf that is being grown off of the eastern shore of Maryland. Tests indicate this new sod does well in similar weather conditions along the East coast.

Additionally, FedEx Field will not allow any college football games on the surface during the renovation. There may be an exception made for a few soccer games.

The issue of field turf, or artificial turf, has always been called, "not an option" by general manager Bruce Allen.  Head coach Mike Shanahan has said he would be "open to the discussion" of having field turf but he prefers grass.

With the injury of RG3 as an example of injuries that can result from poor playing surfaces, such as the case with FedEx Field through their last few weeks during last season's regular season, it is no wonder why this doesn't occur during every offseason.

While the loss to the Seahawks cannot be blamed on the poor turf conditions, since both teams played on the same field, it certainly was the motivating factor to have it replaced this offseason. Undeniably, the injury to RG3 set the wheels in motion to have this work begin as soon as the weather in Washington allowed for it.

Follow on Twitter @JohnBibb and view previous Bleacher Report articles I have written on the Washington Redskins here.

Tottenham Hotspur winger Gareth Bale named PFA Player of the Year and ... - Telegraph.co.uk

Tottenham star Bale was also just the fifth player to land the senior award twice, reclaiming it from last year's winner, Robin van Persie, following a vote among his peers.

Bale has taken his game to new heights this season, scoring 24 goals in 40 games for Spurs, almost single-handedly spearheading their bid to qualify for the Champions League.

The 23-year-old, who also won the PFA prize in 2011, has become one of the most sought-after players in world football and is now said to be worth around £50 million.

Thanking his team-mates and manager Andre Villas-Boas, Bale said: "It's a massive honour. To be voted by your peers is one of the biggest things in the game. It's great to win it and I am delighted.

"When you look at the list, there are some massive names on it but I couldn't have done it without the team. They have been fantastic this year and so has the manager.

"The other nominees have been unbelievable, they have been outstanding for their clubs and it's a massive moment to win, especially as it's both awards and it's something that I'm extremely proud of."

The Young Player of the Year prize saw Bale up against Hazard, the 2011 winner Jack Wilshere, Danny Welbeck, Romelu Lukaku and Christian Bentéké.

The only men previously to have won both awards in the same season were Andy Gray in 1977 and Cristiano Ronaldo six years ago, while only Ronaldo, Mark Hughes, Alan Shearer and Thierry Henry have claimed the senior prize twice.

Bale now has every chance of being the first player to win it three times but he said: "The biggest thing is playing for your team and going well. If you do well then these awards come along.

Recalling his most memorable goals this season, he added: "There are a few. The one against Norwich was one of my favourites, the West Ham one. Those two are my favourites from this season."

His record bears comparison with the likes of Van Persie — who scored 28 in his debut season at Manchester United to help them regain the Premier League title — and Suárez — who netted 30 for Liverpool prior to the 10-match biting ban that has ended his season.

Bale singled out both players for praise, saying: "They have been outstanding this season and it's been a great season for everyone to watch."

The six senior nominees also took their place in the Premier League Team of the Year, along with David De Gea, Pablo Zabaleta, Rio Ferdinand, Jan Vertonghen and Leighton Baines.

The inaugural Women's Award went to Arsenal Ladies and Scotland midfielder Kim Little, while the Merit award was given to former United youth-team coach Eric Harrison for helping bring through the so-called 'Fergie Fledglings' in the 1990s.

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Kevin Davies' scheduled release is just a difficult pill to swallow

Throughout the last ten years, Kevin Davies has provided some absolutely amazing thoughts for Bolton Wanderers fans. Maybe that is why today's news that the team won't be offering the leader a brand new contract felt like a strike in the stomach to so many supporters. Davies does not have the same feet that he did just a few years back but that does not mean that he would not manage to offer significant contributions to Bolton Wanderers on the next year and beyond. Nevertheless, his ultimate release had to occur. If you make an effort to consider your preferred Kevin Davies time, you would probably find it difficult to pick out just one. Equalizing against Bayern Munich, whipping West Ham with a dislocated finger, getting Chungy the ball to beat Birmingham, the England call-up, and so on. Kevin Davies provided so many of Bolton's most significant memories within the last decade and that makes saying farewell very difficult. Maybe it was the fact that Kevin Davies was the last remaining person in that Bolton Wanderers team. The group that represented the Trotters' golden age. Jussi Jaaskelainen, Ricardo Gardner, Fernando Hierro, Jay Jay Okocha, El-Hadji Diouf, Ivan Campo, Gary Speed, etc, had all gone inside their own directions throughout the last seven or eight decades but Kevin Davies hung around. His departure will well and undoubtedly function as end of this extraordinary time. He was not bumping in goals or giving assists like he used to on an everyday basis and with three small, hungry strikers on the counter, it absolutely was always planning to be difficult to get the chief regular games. Because of this, the correct decision was made by Bolton Wanderers by making him go. Yet, while the choice was, for all intents and purposes, the right one, that will not ensure it is any easier for supporters to simply accept. The club arrived with a brief statement earlier in the day, reaffirming Super Kevin Davies' popular reputation and there's simply no doubting the man's commitment to the club, the town of Bolton, and the fans. Many had hoped that Davies could observe how his job with the team that he became synonymous with, taking on a teaching position and supporting breed another generation of famous Bolton striker. Concerns remain about whether it is something the leader would also wish to accomplish, while that remains a possibility as time goes on (like it did with Phil Brown). Bolton Wanderers got a complete battering in the press nevertheless the membership did nothing wrong. The talksport interview that SKD performed did actually concentrate on two things: that (per team policies, head) he wasn't being given a recommendation and that it was his birthday. Neither you've got any bearing on the actual facts of the matter. For one, per a number of reports, all that Kevin Davies needs to do for a testimonial is question (like John McGinlay did after five years). Second, Davies desires to perform steady minutes and that is not a thing that Bolton Wanderers could offer. As much as it affects for him, would SKD instead sit the last year or two of his career on the bench or would he wish to play? I'd bet the latter. Players go and come, but, a lot more than such a thing, Bolton Wanderers fans must be grateful for the almost 10 years of enthusiastic company that Kevin Davies provided the club. Sportsmen fade. It is a fact of the game that comes with age. Course, though, is permanent. Supporters will always have the myriad of memories that Kevin Davies developed. After the ball is put by all, who in the Munich net? Tremendous Kevin Davies.

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Two Explosions Nearby The Boston Marathon Finish Range, Dozens Of Deaths Described

Two mysterious explosions happened close to the finish distinct the Boston Marathon around 3 p.m. today, next door from the Lenox Hotel. Early reports say that dozens have been wounded. Mediaite has video clip of what we all know to this point: In this video from TPM (h/t bing) you can see the original explosion taking place, and probably the next explosion in the length. Itas a terrifying video with audio, so please be warned: There is a method to track players which have finished the race. You can certainly do so here. UPDATE: The amount of deaths being reported changes with respect to the store, but there are many injured and at the least two people killed. We shall not continue reporting on the amount until it is made standard. Photo via David L. Ryan

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Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson hints at Robert Lewandowski swoop - ESPN.co.uk

Sir Alex Ferguson has suggested Manchester United may yet sign Robert Lewandowski, despite reports the Borussia Dortmund striker is bound for Bayern Munich.

Lewandowski stole the headlines midweek, scoring four goals against Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals. The Poland international has become one of the hottest strikers in Europe as a result.

Ferguson believes that, following the announcement that Bayern have signed Mario Gotze for next season, Lewandowski may not be allowed to make the same move, and could instead transfer to Old Trafford.

"If the right player comes along you have to be prepared to make a move," Ferguson said. "I can find room for anybody here as long as they have the required quality.

"I am not sure Lewandowski will be sold to Bayern now. The Dortmund fans are not going to be happy [about the Gotze transfer] and I don't think they will sell to their main rivals.

Bayern, meanwhile, moved to quash reports from Bild that Lewandowski had agreed to terms with the Bundesliga leaders. The club "has no contract with Robert Lewandowski", a statement read.

PREMIER CATEGORY LIVE: System v Manchester United, Chelsea v Swansea... - Daily Mail

UPDATED: 22:00 EST, 27 April 2013 Follow Sportsmail's coverage of the Barclays Premier League as Reading number QPR in just one of three games to end the weekend's motion. while both teams would be condemned by a draw to playing Championship basketball next term, if each side drop at the Madejski Stadium they'll be directed to the Championship for next year. Kicking off at 3pm, Chelsea will aim to maintain their bid of reaching next season's Champions League if they host Swansea, while the day's activity ends at the Emirates Stadium when Arsenal, also trying to finish in the top four, welcome recently crowned champions Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium. Send me your thoughts on the motion at dan.ripley@dailymail.co.uk or via Twitter @Ripinho. *Follow live coverage from 12.30pm* On the brink: QPR or Reading might be relegated at the Madejski Stadium

Tottenham Hotspur 2-2 Wigan Athletic - video reaction - The Guardian

Tottenham Hotspur manager, André Villas-Boas, and Wigan Athletic manager, Roberto Martínez, react to Saturday's 2-2 draw in the Premier League. Wigan Athletic's Emmerson Boyce scored early in the first half at the DW Stadium, before a late own goal gave the visitors a point and denied the Latics a crucial victory

Gallery: Newcastle United v Liverpool - April 27 2013 - Metro

Life was begun by liverpool without Luis Suarez with a 6-0 triumph over Newcastle, as Daniel Sturridge and Fabio Borini proving the Uruguayan isnat the only striker at the club. A brace was bagged by sturridge, while his first goal was scored by Borini since August in the Redsa demolition at St. Jamesa Park, with one from Daniel Agger and another two from Jordan Henderson, as Liverpool inflicted Newcastleas worst home beat since 1925. For more Sport galleries click the link

Texas Cowboys 2013 Draft: The Great and the Negative

The Dallas Cowboys have covered up the 2013 NFL draft, introducing eight players (four on offense, three on defense). Let's review what exactly took place for Dallas at Radio City Music Hall Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Pick rundown Circular 1 (31 ): Travis Frederick (C, Wisconsin )Round 2 (47 ): Gavin Escobar (TE, Hillcrest State )ARound 3 (74 ): Terrance Williams (WR, Baylor )Round 3 (80 ): J.J. Wilcox (S, Georgia Southern )Round 4 (114 ): B.W. Webb (CB, William & Mary )Round 5 (151 ): Joseph Randle (RB, Oklahoma State )Round 7 (185 ): DeVonte Holloman (LB, South Carolina) Most readily useful pick:ADeVonte Holloman They saved the most effective for last. Holloman had no business lasting to the sixth round, but Dallas benefits. The versatile, natural opponent is strong in coverage and is actually a long-term solution at the strong-side linebacker spot. He is an excellent guy to possess growing behind Justin Durant, Sean Lee and Bruce Carter. Other picks I liked: B.W. Webb, J.J. Wilcox Webb is adequate to become this team's next spot, which concerns in the NFC East. Plus, he could have a huge influence in the get back game. Wilcox looks like he will have an opportunity to start, despite playing security just one year at Georgia Southern. Worst pick: Gavin Escobar I will never understand the thinking behind having a small end here. I know the scouts are better than I am, but this just does not add up. Jason Witten and James Hanna are a wonderful duo. A blocker is needed by them (like John Phillips), not another pass-catcher, if such a thing. Different recommendations I did perhaps not like: Travis Frederick, Terrance Williams Paul is a good addition to the inside of the offensive line, but he must have can be found in Round 3. Williams is a respectable addition to the getting corps, but the Cowboys had bigger needs, and I believe he was a reach in the next round. Left to address: right tackle, defensive tackle, defensive end I really expected the Cowboys to draft someone to contend with Doug Free, nevertheless now the force is really to sign Eric Winston. When they don't, we'll be seeing Free again on the proper side. They also have to address that aging defensive point, specially with Anthony Spencer maybe not signed longterm. That will be the target next year at this time.

UFC 159 Results: Jon Smith Throttles Chael Sonnen, Straight in No-Win Property

After mauling Chael Sonnen at UFC 159, it is obvious that Jon Jones has no serious competitors at 205 pounds. This is simply not news to many battle supporters, but there's really no room for debate left. The UFC light heavyweight champion isn't invincible and may very well eat a legitimate beat in the weight class to accompany the bludgeoning of Matt Hamill that Bones theoretically "lost." But if that ever occurs, it is going to be the product of the success whipping himself or some out-of-nowhere freak of nature that is not even on the 205-pound radar at the moment. Go through the organization's own light heavyweight ratings. They are definitely not definitive, but they might easily be mistaken as such:, as they are revealed by the business that puts on the cards You'll remember that Bones dispatched the present top competition with intense prejudice at UFC 140. It's true that the Dragon gave problems to him in the initial round and were able to feel the champ several times. But Jon in the course of time discovered his range, bloodied the Brazilian and fundamentally left him in a ton at the beds base of the cage courtesy of a nasty position guillotine. Neither Evans nor Rua nor Bader fared any better than Machida. Alhough, Suga Rashad does get a star in the moral-victory column to be the first person to actually go a full five units with the UFC's version of the bogeyman. Teixeira and Gustafsson would both be interesting if the 25-year-old champion could be placed by them in stasis and improve while Jones was struggling to achieve this herself. Unfortunately for both up-and-comers, Jon appears to be improving as fast as, if not faster than, anyone else in the department. Potentially the business. He didn't have much of an opportunity to show his latest updates, but even in the about five minutes it took to dismantle Sonnen, Jones proved he had anything every all-time great must have: poise enough to understand a no-win situation smoothly. And he has it at a somewhat early age. Bones has probably reached that rarest level of prominence where such a thing in short supply of an amazing performance against a genuine adversary can keep the audience grumbling: "What is the large fuss?" That means the great majority of his times will be lose-lose propositions from now on because most of the men on that listing of light heavyweight contenders will not be observed as genuine contenders. Anderson Silva reached that point around Patrick Cote and Thales Leites. Issues were planning in a ugly course if the Demian Maia Incident at UFC 112 was any sign, but Sonnen's arch-villain routine and near-upset at UFC 117 changed the game on the Spider. One might even argue Chael saved Anderson from himself by providing Silva with a "worthy" foil or at least one the UFC middleweight winner had to just take seriously. Regardless, Silva indicated that, even at well-seasoned 34 years of age (at enough time of the ordeal in Abu Dhabi), the weight of being the very best dog could be as any opposition as dangerous. The stakes are, almost by definition, larger for the one holding the strip than for the one trying to go on it. Sometimes unfairly therefore, which tips the scales of pressure much more significantly toward the title-holder. UFC 159's main eventa'featuring perhaps the best 205-pounder of all time against a man who'd not fought at the fat in almost a and got blasted in his last bout at 185 poundsa'was a perfect exemplory instance of the trend. If Jones had stepped over the cage and bumped Sonnen out in 12 seconds, the Prudential Center group would've roared nicely and then came back to speaking about Alan Belcher's eye or Roy Nelson's nuclear right hand. Jon Jones had nothing to get, everything to lose and sailed through the ordeal unscathed. He could've toyed together with his foe, he could've trash-talked him or tried to make an example of him. Bones could've insisted on beating Sonnen with his own head games, but rather chose the better part of valor and beat Chael with his own fight game. Until the umpire had seen enough the light heavyweight champ bullied the much smaller challenger, arrived a few punishing takedowns and pulped Sonnen. Certain, the stoppage looked a tad early, but just because Chael was still conscious, maybe not because he'd any chance of rallying. So chalk up another impressive, though unsurprising efficiency for Jones and yet another mental gun to choose the resolve he confirmed against Vitor Belfort's infamous armbar at UFC 152. We are brought by which back once again to that listing of so-called challengers. The Mauler and Teixeira are outstanding inside their own rights, but neither gets the actual methods that Jones' includes and Jon is demonstrating up to the emotional challenges as well. Both deserve and will almost certainly manage to get thier photographs, but neither will be a great gamble to unseat the 205-pound kingpin except one or both can find ways to close on the winner between now and then. Hendo and Minotoro Nogueira might've given Jones' a work for his equipment within their primes, but despite my man-crush on Dangerous Dan and my regard for anybody called Nogueira, you are speaking about 42 and 36. Age isn't the end-all-be-all of fight aspects, but putting it to all or any of Jones' other advantages does not help. That leaves Davis and Mousasi. Mr. Wonderful only picked aside Vinny Magalhaes, but well, it absolutely was Vinny Magalhaes. Davis comes into the "needs more improvement" camp alongside Gustafsson and Teixeira, he only generally seems to need more of it. When it comes to Dreamcatcher, who knows what to model of him now? He is looked like a world-beater at times and then looked like the person who battled Keith Jardine to an attract 2011.AEither way, Mousasi's about the same size as Sonnen, although not nearly as real, so it's difficult to see him providing Jones much resistance. As for the mythic warrior from beyond the horizon, the only real name I could think about is Daniel Cormier, but have you seen DC lately? If he is established on trimming down to 205 properly (as he must be), it's going to be described as a while before we see Cormier at light heavyweight and that's if he also decides where he really wants to go that's. Till then, Dana White and Joe Silva are getting to need to get creative since, after five eye-opening name defenses and 10 consecutive wins at 205 pounds with eight coming via stoppage, the UFC light heavyweight champ has little left to prove and even less competition against which to prove it.

Watford win & Chalobah's must-see screamer a major boost for Bolton

There was just one Championship match on Friday evening and that one match had the potential to put a huge wrench in Bolton's promotion plans. Gianfranco Zola's Watford team traveled to the King Power Stadium to take on Nigel Pearson's Leicester City in a top (ish) of the table clash. At the start of the day, the Hornets sat four points back of second-place Hull City. A win would have thrown them right back into the automatic promotion mix.

The match was largely end-to-end with both sides carving out chances for much of the first half. Watford would go ahead thanks to Troy Deeney scoring his 19th goal of the season from just six yards out. That goal was not the story of the match as on-loan Chelsea youngster Nathaniel Chalobah scored one that fans of the sport will likely remember for years to come. His goal was the definition of a screamer thanks to its pace, perfect placement, and the fact that it left everyone shell-shocked.

The goal would prove to be the eventual match-winner as the Hornets walked out 2-1 winners. The Foxes would pull one back just after the hour mark thanks to Harry Kane but it proved too little too late. The win pulls Watford within a point of Hull City (at the time of writing) but as Bolton fans, we're not at all bothered about that.

Leicester City's loss leaves them in seventh place with Bolton a point ahead in sixth and two games to play (again, at the time of writing) to Leicester's one. If Nottingham Forest lose to Millwall, Bolton can guarantee a play-off place with just three points from their final two matches.

Birmingham City associate Platt plays down Hart damage concerns - Goal.com

Roberto Mancini's right-hand man guarantees supporters that the back spasm experienced by the goalkeeper throughout their 2-1 conquer West Ham looks likely to be "OK on Monday" Roberto Mancini's men ran out pretty comfortable winners as objectives from Sergio Aguero and Yaya Toure were enough to secure a gain contrary to the Hammers, despite a late response from Andy Carroll. Although Hart did actually get a right back issue in the second half, Platt was determined that it was nothing particularly serious and was normal for a. "I think Joe's right back spasmed as he started a ball, he's a blocked up and will be considered a bit sore tomorrow but he will be OKAY on Monday," he told reporters. "Most owners, since they are putting themselves about left, right and center through the week may have problems around such things as that. It is very little of a problem. It's a 24-hour thing." Mancini's right-hand man recommended, but, that the trunk injury was the culprit for Hart's part in Carroll's convenience target as the England international didn't hold his compatriot's pretty tame hit out. He was possibly affected by "it with the way he conceded the second," Platt included. "If when it's gone in you look at the ball, he can not get down to it."

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Horford leads Hawks to 90-69 rout of Pacers

ATLANTA (AP) — Al Horford had 26 points and 16 rebounds as the Atlanta Hawks turned things around dramatically in their playoff series against Indiana, blowing out the Pacers 90-69 in Game 3 Saturday night.

Playing with much more urgency than they did in two double-digit losses at Indianapolis, the Hawks raced to a 54-30 halftime lead and narrowed the best-of-seven series to 2-1. Game 4 is Monday night in Atlanta, where the Hawks have won 12 straight over the Pacers dating to 2006.

The Hawks changed up their lineup — inserting 7-footer Johan Petro at center and bringing 3-point specialist Kyle Korver off the bench — after getting manhandled on the road. With more favorable matchups and a lot more energy, Atlanta suddenly made a series of it.

Indiana, which looked so dominant on its home court, was a totally different team after heading south. David West led the Pacers with 18 points. Paul George, who averaged 25 points in the first two games, was held to 16 on 4-of-11 shooting.

Atlanta coach Larry Drew started the little-used Petro at center in hopes of cutting into the Pacers' size advantage, a move that had a ripple effect on Horford and Smith, providing more favorable defensive matchups all along the front line. But, after getting manhandled in the first two games at Indianapolis, this wasn't really about a great strategic move.

Petro played only 14 minutes. Korver, who started the first two games, still got the bulk of the playing time with 29 minutes. Instead, this was more about the Hawks coming out with a lot more passion, the very things Drew had been preaching since the start of the series.

After falling behind 8-1 in the opening minutes and calling a quick timeout, Atlanta dominated the rest of the opening half with a display that had the crowd on its feet time and time again, while the Pacers stood around in a state of shock.

As good as the Pacers were in the first two games, averaging 110 points and a 16-point margin of victory, they were that bad in Game 3. They made four of their first six shots — then missed 30 of their next 36 before halftime, many of them the forced, ugly efforts of a team that turned increasingly desperate as the Hawks seemed to get to every loose ball just a little quicker.

Roy Hibbert missed all four of his shots in the first half. The backcourt duo of George Hill and Lance Stephenson each went 1 of 6. The Atlanta defense, which was largely nonexistent in the first two games, contested every shot this time. Not only did Petro bring a more physical presence, Ivan Johnson came off the bench to provide plenty of bruising, quality minutes — not to mention some fierce staredowns when Indiana did manage a rare basket.

With Petro at center, Horford shifted to power forward and Smith moved over to small forward, a lineup that helped shut down the Pacers.

As the Hawks pulled away, things got a bit chippy in the second quarter. The 6-foot-10 Horford led a lumbering fast break and was tripped by West coming through the lane. Horford went down hard, and Teague came up from behind to give West a shove. The Hawks had no intention of getting pushed around again.

There was a bit more shoving and jawing before the teams were separated, but nothing serious. After reviewing the video, the officials stuck with their original call — a flagrant foul on West, a technical on Teague.

For the most part, the game lived up to the nickname the Hawks' PR department has tried to push on the team for years. This was, indeed, the Highlight Factory — most notably late in the first half, when Devin Harris took off on a fast break, glanced over his left shoulder and spotted Smith sprinting up from behind. Harris delivered a perfect behind-the-back pass, and Smith unleashed a thunderous left-handed slam that would've scored a perfect "10" in a dunk contest.

The Pacers, in fact, spent most of the night in a defensive fog. Stephenson fouled Harris on a desperation 3-pointer with the shot clock winding down, and the Atlanta player knocked down all three free throws. Then, after the Pacers made a couple of free throws with 6 seconds left in the half, Harris let the inbounds pass roll nearly to midcourt to save time, then scooped it up and took off for an uncontested layup that sent the Hawks to the locker room with their 24-point lead.

Notes: The Pacers' last win in Atlanta was a regular-season triumph Dec. 22, 2006. ... The Hawks missed six of their first 10 free throws, extending the troubles they had in the first two games. But they bounced back to make 14 of their last 18. ... Petro finished with six points and four rebounds.

7 Trick Fits Sheamus Would Flourish in

Double H versus. Rock Cold in their common Three Stages of Hell match. Daniel Bryan and Sheamus created a masterpiece within their 2-out-of-3 falls fit at last year's Extreme Rules. Just take that structure and put the carnage of three additional trick fits, and WWE could have a classic in the building. The Three Stages of Hell match is just a buffet of abuse, adding a cage match, a hierarchy match, a fight or any vicious combination WWE decides on. It's a match that's not been utilized since Randy Orton and Triple H went at it at The Bash last year. A lot of the brawl-heavy stipulations that would be a the main Three Stages of Hell would accommodate Sheamus completely. Be it crate or street fight, he would be compelling to watch as often the aggressor or the victim. His energy techniques could give a pop of excitement, particularly if they were to be against the wall of a crate or via an broadcast table. His feud with Mark Henry is not almost private enough to achieve the hate necessary for Three Stages of Hell, therefore it is very unlikely we'll see him in this session the moment Extreme Rules.

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Sir Alex will set his sights on those German thrillers now - Daily Mail

It was a strange experience to be looking on as Manchester United players celebrated winning the title while I was sat in Sky's studios in London. It was the first time in my life that had happened and I had no involvement in and around the club.

Those evenings are the pinnacle of your career as a player and the nights you do miss when you retire. Obviously a Champions League final has more global significance and is an incredible moment of glory.

But winning a league title is a long, hard slog of 10 months of football. It feels more of an achievement in some ways.

And the manner in which United have done it - winning it so decisively with four games to play - and coming back so strongly after such a demoralising setback of losing the title on goal difference in the last minute of the previous season has been extraordinary.

That is Sir Alex Ferguson's extraordinary talent, to be able to respond to the latest challenge and to rebuild from disappointments. He congratulated Manchester City at the end of last season then, in the next breath, he spoke about the young team he was building and how they would win many more trophies.

Even in that moment he was looking ahead. The questions I'm asked most are both about Sir Alex: how long will he go on and what keeps him going?

The only answer I can give is that the young people with whom he works seem to invigorate him, and the challenge of what's next seems to re-energise him.

But my guess is that on Tuesday night, he'd have been watching Bayern Munich v Barcelona then, on Wednesday, Borussia Dortmund v Real Madrid and he will have thought: 'Right, that's where we're going; that's where I'm taking this team. My young players have great ability, talent and energy. That's the level I want to get to. We'll be with Dortmund and Bayern in a year saying, "Come on! We'll be having you at your own game".'

And that's why I cannot see him finishing. I don't think he's even thinking about it. He will be focusing on the next goal and it's staring him in the face.

Having watched a lot of Champions League football this season and having been at Borussia Dortmund's 4-1 win over Real Madrid on Wednesday, it is clear that modern football is ever-changing and getting better.

For me, the best teams in the world are now taking even more risks and playing with incredible energy. They are the teams that attack in great numbers and then get back into their defensive shape the quickest.

It's about responding the fastest, both mentally and athletically. The basic principles of going forward as a team and getting back as a team haven't changed. But more players are going forward than ever; and responding and recovering quicker to get back.

And no team exemplify that change more than Borussia Dortmund. They were stunning on Wednesday, and I don't use that word lightly. It wasn't that they had more ability or that we saw some of the greatest players of all time, as we do in Cristiano Ronaldo or Leo Messi.

What was stunning was that this group of young men have the energy, intelligence and quality that only the exceptional teams have.

At this level, the technical ability and talent are a given. But it is their energy and organisation that make the difference.

Bayern's 4-0 win over Barcelona, though similar, was subtly different: they overpowered Barcelona. But Dortmund were just too quick for Real.

They made them look old and slow, yet they're neither. This is no mug of a Real Madrid team - and it's not impossible they could stage one of the greatest comebacks in Champions League history.

Real Madrid were scintillating last year when they won the La Liga title with Spanish football at its peak. But Dortmund just ran them off the pitch.

And while Robert Lewandowski grabbed the headlines with his four goals, for me, watching games over the past few weeks, the key players are the five behind him.

When Ilkay Gundogan goes, everyone goes with him. He's only 22 and around him he has young players in Sven Bender (23), Marco Reus (23), Mario Gotze (20) and Jakob Blaszczykowski (27).

Paris Saint-Germain, while not as effective, had similar traits against Barcelona. They had Marco Veratti, who is 20, driving them on, with Lucas Moura (20) and Javier Pastore (23) around him as well as the experience of Thiago Motta.

For Bayern, Javier Martinez (24) set the whole tone of the performance. As a group, I think the United team of 1999 had something like that when they had Paul Scholes, Roy Keane, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole.

I'm not one for comparing teams between eras but I would love to watch a match between that United team and the Dortmund team of today.

With United now there is a challenge to get to that level. Sir Alex Ferguson and David Gill have spoken about additions being made to the squad this summer and you get the feeling that the club are going to go for it.

It's not as though United need to sign four or five new players. I'm sure they will be looking to make significant additions as teams always evolve. But they'll do so in a measured fashion.

Certainly they will look at that deeper midfield area. Michael Carrick has had his best ever season but they have lost Darren Fletcher to illness and Paul Scholes hasn't played for three months.

When Sir Alex talked last year about these youngsters coming back and winning more titles, you sense that he knows his team are growing again. I have the feeling there is a Champions League team evolving once more.

This team are definitely in the latter category. There were seven players winning the Premier League for the first time.

And when I look at players like Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Rafael, Tom Cleverley, Danny Welbeck, Shinji Kagawa and Javier Hernandez, I can see them doing the same as those Dortmund and Bayern players.

What all those players have in common, and what is crucial to the modern game, is that they can all run - and quickly.

But I would imagine Sir Alex will have been invigorated from watching Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich and will have thought: 'Right, we missed out this year. But I'm going to get my players into that mentality so that we're going to be there in 2014 and 2015.'

This United team are on an upward curve. Monday wasn't the summit of their potential achievements. It was one of the smaller peaks along to the way to the summit.

The improvement is still to come. Of course, as a club, United are at a huge advantage in being able to harness the competitive instinct of Sir Alex Ferguson. Sir Alex's greatest achievement must be that he has instilled a mentality into an entire football club that you've never done it and the job is never completed.

Stoke City 1 Norwich City 0 match report: Charlie Adam puts Stoke on verge of ... - The Independent

The big screen at the Britannia Stadium was advertising Stoke City's end-of-season awards dinner during yesterday's match. Whoever is tasked with compiling the highlights package for that evening's entertainment will have their work cut out but at least Stoke will be able to raise a glass to another season in the top flight.

Stoke's narrow, if deserved victory, lifted them three places to 12th and on to the 40-point safety mark, ensuring a sixth successive Premier League campaign in 2013/14. It was a victory fittingly secured by a goal moments after the restart that carried the hallmarks of Stoke's route-one approach as Peter Crouch flicked on Ryan Shawcross's long punt forward and Charlie Adam latched on to it, touching the ball past Steven Whittaker and then burying a low shot past Mark Bunn. Adam raised his arms in the air and looked skywards as he celebrated his first goal since the death of his father, Charlie Adam Snr, in December.

It will have brought relief for manager Tony Pulis (below) who has received unprecedented criticism during Stoke's post-Christmas slump and this week denied speculation that he was ready to walk away from the club. The Welshman did not comment afterwards, leaving the post-match media duties to his assistant, David Kemp, who played down the negative mood, saying: "[The criticism] has not affected him or anybody else. We just get on with it and that is the life of a football manager." Kemp also defended a style of play that, when not producing results, has little else to commend it. "The stadium is full every week," he said. "I like the style of play today, I enjoyed it last week," he added referring to the win at QPR.

In truth, the first half was poor. The form book had suggested this would be no classic – like Stoke, Norwich entered the game with only two wins this calendar year – and it lived down to expectations. Norwich winger Robert Snodgrass sent an early header over, Cameron Jerome saw a goalbound volley deflect to safety off team-mate Steven Nzonzi, and that was about it. The frustration seemed to get to both Nzonzi and Jerome, each picking up bookings for rash challenges, but the game changed with Adam's intervention moments after the restart. The Scot has not had the best of times since arriving from Liverpool and did not start a game in February and March, but he showed his class with his goal.

"The goal released the tension a bit," said Kemp, and more goals should have followed as Stoke raised the tempo. Adam teed up Crouch with a ball across the six-yard box but the big striker completely missed his kick. Nzonzi then saw a powerful drive parried by Bunn; Crouch steered the rebound wide but would have been offside anyway.

At the other end, despite the introduction of Wes Hoolahan to add some craft, Norwich did not force a save out of Asmir Begovic. Their manager, Chris Hughton, said: "The frustration is [with] the goal we conceded. We knew what we had to do, we knew they would play very direct. The timing of the goal really hurt us."

Norwich remain on 38 points and cannot relax yet, although Hughton is hopeful of easing their lingering relegation fears in the upcoming home fixtures against Aston Villa and West Brom. "It is in our own hands, we need to make the most of the two home games."

Stoke (4-4-2): Begovic; Shotton, Shawcross, Huth, Wilkinson (Cameron, 61); Adam, Whelan (Whitehead, 65), Nzonzi, Walters; Jerome (Etherington, 79), Crouch.

Norwich (4-2-3-1): Bunn; Martin, R Bennett, Bassong (Pilkington, 86), Whittaker; Tettey (Hoolahan, 67), Johnson; Kamara, Howson, Snodgrass (E Bennett, 64); Holt.

Link: Blau-Weiss Linz - KSV 1919 - Austrian Erste Liga

Williams objectives Chelsea FC win - This is Tamworth

Tamworth's Ashley Williams is wanting Swansea City may cause another angry and beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge tomorrow. Williams and his team-mates surprised Chelsea by winning over two feet in the semi-final of the Main City One Cup in 2013. The Swans continued to win the cup. Speaking ahead of tomorrow's Premiership conflict, Williams said: aWe can get a result there. Ten percent off all Thule towbar support routine insurers stored in-store. To earn voucher please come in-store with voucher and we shall allow you to choose the company suited to your preferences. Terms: - Voucher redeemable just against objects in the description.-Voucher can not be used together with any deals or vouchers.-Voucher must certanly be used in-store. Contact: 01543 257 888 Valid until: Friday, May possibly 31 2013 aIt is going to be hard, thatas clear, but weave been there and nicked a win before. aIt was a of a in the semi-final, but I do believe to have any such thing at these kinds of locations itas always likely to be a bit like this. aI canat envision us going there and dominating for 90 minutes like we can do against some sides due to the quality they've got. aItas likely to be a difficult game which we will have to defend well as a group which we have done before."

Cav a go: Manchester City leading the chase for £52m Napoli striker Edinson ... - Mirror.co.uk

The Blues will trigger the £52million get-out clause in the Napoli striker's contract to ensure they beat Real ­Madrid and Paris St.Germain to his signature this ­summer.

And City have moved into pole position after making it clear they will meet the Italian club's asking price and offer the 26-year-old £250,000-a-week wages.

The potential British record transfer has been ­orchestrated by City sporting director Txiki Begiristain and sanctioned by chief executive Ferran Soriano. The Uruguay ­international is also at the top of manager Roberto Mancini's wanted list.

A move for Schalke's Greece international ­defender Kyriakos Papadopoulos is well advanced, with the 21-year-old valued at £15m by his club despite his continuing recovery from a knee operation.

And City are planning another raid on the Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund ­midfielder Marco Reus. The 23-year-old is contracted until 2017, but he is perfect for City's plan to play 4-3-3 and the Blues will not baulk at his £25m price tag.

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Glazers winning the battle for Manchester United's finances, if not hearts - The Independent

The architects of protest against the Glazer family have taken a new step to preserve the soul of Manchester United, applying yesterday to have Old Trafford listed as an "asset of community value". This means that the club's owners will never be able to dispose of the stadium.

The application to Trafford Council, by the Manchester United Supporters' Trust (Must), is welcome, three years after the threat of a sale felt very real in the prospectus circulated to potential investors from whom the Glazers were seeking £500m to refinance the club. The document declared that the legal contract governing the bond "will not prohibit us from selling certain key properties" including the training ground and stadium. That was a time when the club appeared to be drowning in the debt created when the Americans borrowed £525m to buy United, loading it plus the interest on to the club. But it is a different story now. Rather than sell the training ground, the newly crowned Premier League champions have just persuaded Aon to part with £160m for the right to have their name attached to it and other assets, secretive and fortified though Carrington is. They have insisted that they will not seek to damage Old Trafford's name by seeking a sponsor for it.

It has been a bumpy ride for the Glazers but, with considerable brass neck, they have made it through the storms of protest which peaked when David Beckham draped a green and gold scarf around his neck after his Milan side lost 4-0 at Old Trafford and Eric Cantona was said to be "keeping an eye on developments," three years ago.

Must does have a voice – 18,000 season-ticket holders are among their 190,000 members. The Glazers are not loved. The pockets of animosity in Manchester meant that they could not celebrate the trophy success on Monday night with the fans, instead heading back to the United States. But there is a significant difference between that and outright insurrection. Winning has the habit of silencing a revolution and United have collected five titles and a Champions League in the seven years since the Glazers arrived. "There are still a small number of dissenters and they will always be there, and they have had long-held views which they are not going to change," chief executive David Gill told the Associated Press this week. "We respect those. But ultimately, someone has to own the club."

The protests certainly seemed unimpeachable in 2010. This was an owner who had lumbered the club with £550m in interest payments alone. United appeared to be sinking in debt. But having settled their extremely high interest "payment in kind" element of their borrowings – the sources used to do so still remain a mystery – the owners were able to press ahead with creating a commercial juggernaut. The raft of sponsorship deals secured from United's corporate base in their Mayfair offices has set them on course to break the €500m (£425m) annual revenue figure which Real Madrid became the first sports club to burst through, last year. Gill spoke in midweek about it being the "quality of the owners" that mattered and even since Monday's title win, the club have announced a new sponsorship agreement with gloops, Japan's leading social gaming company, and BIDV, Vietnam – the club's first financial services agreement in that country. United's total financial services agreements cover 256 million followers across 12 countries. Aon, Chevrolet and Nike take the headlines but these are the deals which mean the Glazers can afford to keep the Old Trafford name sacrosanct .

And then there has been the New York flotation. The club's shares were trading on the New York Stock Exchange above $17 (£11) yesterday after opening on the market at $14 in August. In part using the proceeds of their initial public offering (IPO), United have cut their debt in half in the past three years to £366.6m. Investors have warmed to the club thanks to the new sponsorship deals, an additional £40m flooding into the club's coffers through next season's new domestic TV deal and the new Financial Fair Play measures designed to curb costs in a notoriously spendthrift industry. The money has allowed Ferguson to take his breathtaking £24m gamble on Robin van Persie which has delivered. Such is the size of the obstacle that green and gold is competing with.

The managerial succession which will have to come eventually is the dark cloud and United are preparing. Gill said this week that Sir Alex Ferguson's successor will not be given the opportunity to change the make up of the squad. "The quality of the squad, the composition of that squad, means that any new manager coming in will inherit a great squad of players. And yes he may, whenever that is... clearly want to bring in one or two of his own people, new players. But he won't want to change the squad wholesale because he won't be our manager. We've got to be consistent with that and that's what we are planning on." But for now, Ferguson is going on and on.

One of the symbols of protest against everything the Glazers stand for are quietly maintaining their ascent through the football pyramid. FC United could be playing Stockport next season if they can break through the Evo-Stik Northern League play-offs into the Conference North and they've certainly got sticking power. But that goes for the Glazers, too. FC United are planning a new stadium at Moston. But United aren't going anywhere.

More Info: FC Zlaté Moravce - MSK Zilina - Slovakian Super Liga

Stoke Area v Norwich City: group sheets - The Guardian

This game might not be one for the simple but you will have plenty at stake in the Potteries. Both these clubs aren't out of relegation difficulty, even after picking up important wins against QPR and Reading respectively last Saturday, and Tony Pulis's men is likely to be particularly keen to gain this fitting given they face a potential six-pointer against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light in a few days. If Norwich were to secure only their 2nd away gain of the summer season it would see their Premier League potential for next year all but established. JamieABurton Place Britannia Ground, Saturday 3pm Passes A25-35 (01782 367599) Last time Stoke 1 Norwich 0 Referee Anthony Taylor This season's matches 23 Y54, R6, 2.61 cards per sport Possibilities Stoke 11-10 Norwich 3-1 Draw 9-4 Subs from Sorensen, Cameron, Owen, Jones, Wilkinson, Whitehead, Palacios, Kightly, Shea, Ness, Etherington Skeptical Adam (ankle), Etherington (back), Jerome (ankle), Wilson (hamstring ), Wounded None Stopped Nothing Form guide WLLLDL Disciplinary history Y69 R3 Leading scorer Walters 7 Subs from Camp, Ruddy, Steer, Tettey, Jackson, Smith, Kamara, Pilkington, Fox, Whittaker, Becchio, Tierney, RABennett Unlikely None Hurt Turner (crotch, 4 May possibly), Surman (leg, unknown) Suspended None Type information WLDLDD Disciplinary history Y54 R1 Leading scorers Holt, Snodgrass 5 a Both sides won last week but it is 19 games since consecutive victories were managed by Stoke and 17 the same feat was achieved by games since Norwich More goals have been seen by a No ground from corners (10) compared to Britannia Stadium this expression a Snodgrass has been booked ten times in his past 12 Premier League games a Jonathan Walters has highlighted in every of Stoke's past 87 group matches, the best current run in the division by an outfield person a Norwich's last win at Stoke in any competition came in the 2nd collection in January 1997 a Darren Eadie and Keith O'Neil got the goals for the visitors

Via: Soccer Newells Old Boys - Racing Club - Argentine football

Term on the Tweet: Twitter marvels at 'story book ' Dortmund thrashing Real Madrid - Goal.com

Jurgen Klopp's group would be the names on everyone's lips after their extraordinary 4-1 conquer the Spanish leaders, as talk turns to the rise to power of German soccer Fabrice Muamba sees a change in power from Spain to Germany and Vincent Kompany expects England to check out the German example, though Stan Collymore disagrees. Which only served to overshadow Matt Le Tissier's less-than-triumphant comeback... Read about it in Thursday's version of the Term on the Tweet..."Is anyone not wearing yellow besides @realmadrid and the ref @BVB at the arena today @ChampionsLeague? #Massive support" Edwin van der Sar is satisfied with the Dortmund fans. Just wait till he sees of what their players are capable... "Can not need this Madrid GK keeping Casillas out carrying complete length tights!!" West Brom's Steven Reid (shown right) disagrees with Jose Mourinho's selection policy on sartorial reasons. "Im in surprise at what ive witnessed these past 24hrs #barca #madrid #destroyed" Andros Townsend isn't the only one... "Dortmund could be the mythic story of European football. Right back from the brink of bankruptcy, now on the brink of a Champions League final." After his side was compared by Jurgen Klopp to Robin Hood, Joey Barton portrays them as Cinderella. "There is a move going on today in football and we are watching bundesliga in a better condition than any league" Fabrice Muamba could experience a wind of change blowing through European soccer. "I think it is fair to express that German soccer is in good order." Gary Lineker succinctly says what we are all thinking. He is rather the wordsmith. "The large investments in youth development that England is making may prove to pay off with time. Dortmund could be the proof."Vincent Kompany (shown left) feels that English football can take plenty of trust from the rise of German football... "A Prem chairman came into studio 3 yrs ago and said''Bundesliga style cant/won't work here'.' Agreed, you're all too greedy." ... But Stan Collymore disagrees with the Manchester City skipper. "Got a 10 second go out as sub for @GuernseyFC today unfortunately we lost 4-2, best of luck at the weekend kids #maybeiamajinx!!" In another big game of the night, Matt Le Tissier's recovery for his local part doesn't go according to plan after defeat to Colliers Wood.

Athletes with Swagger: Who's Got It? Who Doesn't?

What's worse is, when we actually do think we know what it is, there's somebody who comes along that makes us look a little less cool than we really are.

It doesn't always necessarily mean you're great at your sport—though sometimes it does—it just means that you appeal to fans and media most of the time.

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System FC a' Arsene Wenger Won't Hang In There Forever - Sportige

It may be a positive thing, it may be a bad turn of developments. However it seems your day Arsene Wenger is no longer the manager of Arsenal gets closer. What does the long run hold? A turn of events for the greater, or a sharp drop into obscurity and the unimportance that shouldnat be a section of the everyday life of a team such as the gunners are. Probably PSG are the next team to savor the abrilliancea of the teacher. Maybe with another group of owners Wenger wonat be so difficult to take on the breaks, and change his philosophy in regards to signing players. Have Arsenal dropped from title challengers and proud winners into a team that canat ensure it is past the quarterfinals of the Champions League and barely finish in the very best 4 due to Arsene Wenger? Because of a control that cares only about income, and not about the ambitions of the club and its fans? Wenger has made excuses for quite a while, but it's his bad decision making when it involves choosing his players a signing, lineups, what not. Among the questions is whether another director, with the same ownership, would have done better? Perhaps, although seem to think that Wenger has this couple of people fighting for the 3-4 spots hoping of another period in the Champions League is just a success. Others think it shows so just how far Arsenal have fallen. Not coming cheaply at all, but not delivering the sort of rating creation youad assume from forwards costing seven numbers, when all they can entice are Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud. When Jack Wilshere is mistakenly mistaken for the teamas messiah, while Wenger doesnat understand how to control that raw talent or keep him off the injured list. Maybe Stan Kroenke is trying to sell, and somebody a bit more ambitious is going towards the gunnersAownershipArole. Maybe Arsenal are right now in the path of owning a baseball team and would be the last team standing once the finances devours all. Nevertheless the experience is Arsenal are the only club playing by the rules while everyone keeps dancing in giant steps. Arsene Wenger created this group back in where it belongs, the utmost effective, or near it, of the league. But his persistence to stick to his or her own way, that is old-fashioned and misdirected, might make us remember as slightly less of what he deserves.

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Newcastle United call off search for yet another senior goalkeeper - ChronicleLive

Ron Elliotas form between the branches for Newcastle United has convinced the team their goalkeeping unit is powerful enough Ron Elliot has performed well enough for Newcastle to cool their research for another senior goalkeeper in front of next period. With Dutchman Tim Krul also perspiring to be fit for the beginning of the growing season with a difficult neck injury, Elliot will become pre-season as Unitedas just experienced glove- man. The Greenwich-born owner will start between the posts again for the Magpies against Liverpool tomorrow night at St Jamesa Park, and is positioned to create his 16th appearance of the campaign. And the 26-year- oldas shows during Krulas accidents have persuaded Alan Pardew and goalkeeping instructor Andy Woodman which they wonat need certainly to make yet another experienced shot- stopper next period. With 38-year-old Steve Harper set to keep the club on a totally free transfer this summer after two decades on Tyneside, there had been plans to test new goalkeeping talent. Base was also touched by newcastle with Birmingham City in January about a possible A3.5m bid for England international Jack Butland. Butland rather signed for Stoke City following the two groups agreed he might be loaned back to Lee Clarkas part. But the second half of the year has triggered Elliot making genuine progress for the Magpies. It implies that Pardew and his backroom team can focus on strengthening the team in other areas, with Krul and Elliot set to battle it out for the No 1 area next period. Harperas lack does mean that United require back-up, nevertheless the Chronicle understands that Newcastle are looking to hand 19-year-old stopper Jak Alnwick a two-year extension to the deal that ends at the end of this year. Alnwick could be loaned out next season to a Football League area with a recall clause inserted to any temporary transition, with Jonathan Mitchell playing in the Under-21 set-up.

Pat McQuaid's UCI nomination to be re-considered

DUBLIN (AP) — Pat McQuaid's nomination by Cycling Ireland to stand for a third term as head of the sport's world governing body is to be re-considered.

The UCI president has been under pressure since details emerged of systematic doping by Lance Armstrong to win seven Tour de France titles. But McQuaid received the nomination after pledging to overhaul the UCI.

However, Cycling Ireland says its board would hold an emergency general meeting at a date to be determined "to consider matters which have arisen following the decision taken at its board meeting on April 12th to nominate Mr. Pat McQuaid."

Cycling Ireland chief executive Geoff Liffey says details of the meeting will be circulated to member clubs next week.

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Chelsea FC link with Radamel Falcao and Jose Mourinho leaves Arsene... - Crunchsports.com

Audley Harrison takes on Deontay Wilder tonight, with Wilder the huge odds-on favourite to be victorious (20:00 BST). Harrison thought he resurrected his career by winning Prizefighter recently, nevertheless the former Olympic champion will come crashing back off to Earth tonight. Those Prizefighter benefits a... Chelsea versus. Swansea takes place on Sunday morning in the Premier League.The game, which takes place at Stamford Bridge, is planned to kick off at 15:00 BST.Chelsea documented a gain at FC Basel in the Europa League in midweek and interim manager Rafael Benitez is confident of getting all thr... British boxer Tyson Fury has been formally challenged to fight UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez byAUFC president Dana White. The open invitation was declared by White after Fury, who last weekend won his first fight on American soil, required a with Velasquez via Twitter. Fur... Bayern Munich have denied a deal for Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski, who is also a goal for Manchester United, has been reached.Lewandowski, who is going of contract at the end of next season, won all four targets in Borussia Dortmund's 4-1 win over Real Madrid in the Champions... Liverpool striker Luis Suarez on Friday do not appeal the ten-match bar received from the Football Association for biting Chelsea opponent Branislav Ivanovic. Suarez was faced with violent conduct by the FA on Monday for biting Ivanovic during last Sunday's 2-2 attract at Anfield, and on Wed... Rafael Benitez has received a lot of criticism since taking charge of Chelsea towards the finish of last year, but is the backlash from Blues supporters justified? Awriter Thomas Rooney looks at the work Rafa has done at Chelsea this season... First of all, it's worth noting that after the Spaniard took... Na Li assumes Bethanie Mattek-Sands today in the semi-finals of the 2013 Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart (17:30 BST start). Later today Li and Mattek-Sands look set to provide us having an engaging semi-final in Stuttgart. Whilst Li looks to be the overwhelming favourite, Mattek-Sa... Arsenal play host to Manchester United on Sunday and ahead of the sport at Emirates Stadium, here is a look right back at five memorable Premier League conferences between the two sides... Collection 2-2 Man Utd (November 2007) Six years back, those two groups played out a fantastic Premier League fixture. After a... Santos striker Neymar, who is still connected with the likes of Barcelona, Chelsea and Real Madrid, is able to move to Europe, the South American membership have confirmed. Neymar is perhaps the most popular player in world football today and has been linked with a number of groups in recent mo...

Eagles Slim Consideration to Four Draft Leads

It seems three days out of the NFL draft, the Philadelphia Eagles have cut their draft board to just four people. Last week common boss Howie Roseman held court with the press for over one hour discussing the team's draft philosophy and strategy. When prompted about how many people stayed on the team's board, Roseman only replied, "Four." Bleacher Report has learned as has Walter Football that the four players remaining on the Eagles' radar are Oregon linebacker Dion Jordan, Central Michigan left tackle Eric Fisher, Utah defensive tackle Star Lotulelei and Texas A&M offensive tackle Luke Joeckel. It is far from a sensational revelation, considering that the Birds front office has spent extensive time with all four prospects, they're all generally considered to be top-five ability and all fill specific needs for the type of team Chip Kelly is trying to build. There's undoubtedly that the Eagles desperately would want to come from this draft introducing one of many elite offensive fights available, who would anchor the line for almost 10 years. Roseman gave a powerful hint on the route Philadelphia is likely to ingest the first round a week ago. "This really is a meat and potatoes draft,"Athe general manager stated. "It is not precisely the flashiest point, but it is exciting because NFL groups really are developed across the lines." Selecting Joeckel, Fisher or Oklahoma's Lane Johnson would gain the Eagles three-fold. First, the choice will be an insurance plan for 31-year old Jason Peters who is returning this year after suffering two ruptured Achilles tendons last offseason. Additionally, picking a tackle allows the Birds to eradicate the error of using a first-round option on Danny Watkins in 2011 while allowing expert Todd Herremans to go back inside from right tackle to right guard, reducing the load on him as he returns from a substantial knee injury suffered last time. Ultimately, Kelly's offense is centered on hole control, and one of this year's draft's elite tackles would definitely solidify that part of the offense for years to come. Nevertheless, bad line, while maybe this team's biggest need, is definately not its only concern after last season's frustrating 4-12 finish and 12-20 record on the past two months. On the defensive part of the ball, new defensive coordinator Bill Davis Jr expects on building a hybrid 3-4, 4-3 fighting security based around pace and playmakers. Must the trigger be pulled by Philadelphia on defense on Thursday evening, Lotulelei will be the best fit to fill a gap over the defensive line. The 6'3", 311-pound defensive tackle would begin straight away and be described as a wrecking ball for other bad lines to include. Free-agent signee Isaac Sopoaga isn't anticipated to be a three-down nose tackle with this group, although Lotulelei might step into that role immediately. Then there's the appeal of Jordan, the University of Oregon's dynamic playmaking outside linebacker. Jordan has already been drawing comparisons to Dallas' DeMarcus ware, before also playing a in the NFL. Having taught him in school, Kelly is clearly familiar with Jordan's capacity not only to get in the quarterback's face all evening, but his ability dropping in to coverage. Last year, Jordan documented 44 tackles, 10.5 tackles for a five bags, loss, three pushed fumbles and a cross deflected. Holding a top-five selection for the first time since 1999, the Eagles are in "can't miss" style, and it seems that leading office has narrowed its target to the four players that are as close to a positive thing as this draft can provide. MattALombardoAis also an on-air personality on 97.5 FM The Fanatic in Philadelphia. Join the discussion and follow Matt onATwitter. All rates obtained directly unless otherwise noted.

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Jason Heyward Injury: Improvements on Braves Star's Appendectomy

Atlanta Braves outfielder Jason Heyward experienced successful appendectomy surgery Monday night, the group introduced through Twitter: Statement Shanks of the Macon Telegraph added: The 23-year-old, who created the All-Star team in his rookie campaign in 2010, had a down time in 2011 before rebounding last year. After batting.269 with 27 property runs, 82 RBI, 93 runs and 21 stolen bases last time, Heyward has gotten down to a gradual start in 2013, batting.121 in 17 games (58 at-bats) in the No. 2 spot in the Braves lineup. Despite Heyward's battles, the Braves have still had the oppertunity to go 13-5 this season. They contain the leading ERA in Major League Baseball (2.36) and people such as for example Justin Upton, Chris Johnson, Evan Gattis and Juan Francisco have moved up at the menu, softening the blow (Atlanta ranks 16th in runs scored). The Braves dropped three of four games from the Pittsburgh Pirates a week ago, on another hand. They obtained a combined three works in these failures. The club wish to see Heyward's bat arrived at life. The Braves currently lead the National League East, ahead of the New York Mets and Washington Nationals. They play the 13-5 Colorado Rockies at Coors Field next. As he appears to leave a difficult beginning to the summer season behind him perhaps the thin air of Colorado will jump-start Heyward.

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Why The Internet Rules: John Wall Says Hello To Dog Also Named John Wall

John Wall the Washington Wizards player has nearly 760,000 Twitter followers. John Wall the dog? No Twitter account: does not have opposable thumbs. Yet the two still made a Twitter connection today, which we learn through SB Nation.

That' sweet of John Wall the dog to be thinking of John Wall the human, even though the latter is not even in the playoffs. Things like this prove once again why the terrorists will never win.

Ethan Strauss Is it "right" that replay is a de facto timeout? Changes the game too. RT @HarmanHammer you wouldn't rather have the right call made?

Lang Whitaker #Grizzlies vs #Clippers just tipped on TNT. Tune in and chat with me on TNT Overtime: http://t.co/EnhQbAA0Yi. Join the convo using #AmexNBA

Sam Amick At @USATODAYsports: Steve Nash has endured plenty of pain in Spurs' series of the past, but this is different - http://t.co/aukMEyJRAG

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Abry Jackson Scouting Report: NFL Perspective for Atlanta DT

Reliability and injuries can dog a new player, but does Abry Jones' large shape justify a draft choice? Go through and discover. Advantages Certainly one of Jones' biggest strengths is his strength. Reps are put up 30 by the big man at the mix, that was enough to place fifth among defensive tackles. He is also a good player. When experienced against a cellular quarterback on third down, he demonstrated his knowledge of the situation by containing instead of asking, and he wound up filling the play. Johnson is also very flexible. He provides a fashion of various weapons to create damage; he can hold facing the work, provide stress or fall back insurance. Flaws As a physical freak Johnson doesn't strike you. He's a good athlete, but neither his measurements from Indy nor the tape make your mouth drop in awe of his natural abilities. However, anAankle injuryAthat needed surgery and finished his season in October could have hindered these incorporate figures. Last but not least, while he is a great tackler, he is not to physical. As an example, there's not any "pop" in his highlight reel. Intangibles/Character Smith is a stone. Mark Richt's teenagers have not always served up to the typical set forth by people like Jones, and he let everyone know it openly (h/t ESPN's Edward Aschoff). aItas true frustrating,a Jones mentioned, abut at the end of the day, when you see people who canat really control themselves off the subject [you realize] it was people who werenat really in it for the whole staff the whole time.a What instructor doesn't love that quote? Resources Smith is really a thick 6'3", 313 pounds, which allowed him to point the point at Georgia. He has a large wingspan because of his 35" hands that are aided by his 9.75" arms. Program Johnson arranged everywhere along the line in Georgia's shifting security. He played largely as a 3-4 end or an inside defensive lineman, and even slipped in coverage from these jobs. Move Run Jackson racked up five bags in his four-year career, according to ESPN. He's maybe not in the Sharrif Floyd mold, but he can get a force up the middle sometimes to fail the pocket. Contrary to the Run He is large and strong, allowing that weight to be sat all by him down and manage the line. His wide reach and relatively agile feet allow him to create plays on working backs that not beat straight into the roadblock he sets up. Fixing Exactly how many times do I have to note Jones' variety as a tackler? He has the physical strength), long knowledge, and (agility and emotional characteristics (play identification and correct location) that he uses to broaden his tackling distance. a ball carrier when he gets his hands he generally speaking drags him down, as the 48 tackles during his junior year would state. Future Role The defensive tackle in a 4-3 or johnson may enjoy the big man on the end of a 3-4 system. He will be relied on to use up room and material the run. Round/Team Match Pittsburgh Steelers (7.223) Detroit Lions (7.245) Baltimore Ravens (7.247) Atlanta Falcons (7.249)

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Nba committee determining Kings' destiny to generally meet Monday

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) a' The NBA panel deciding whether the Sacramento Kings ought to be offered and moved to Seattle will hold a gathering via conference call Monday. An NBA spokesman confirmed Thursday that the committee, consisting of 12 group owners, will convene on a call as opposed to personally. When the committee dilemmas a, NBA owners will have at least seven business days to examine the report before an election will take place. The Maloof family has had a settlement since January to offer a 65 % controlling interest in the Kings to a Seattle group light emitting diode by hedge-fund manager Chris Hansen. Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson has helped assembled a competitive counteroffer complete with a fresh world strategy and a control group headed by application magnate Vivek Ranadive.

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Suarez ban too tough, says West Brom boss Steve Clarke - expressandstar.com

West Bromwich Albion boss Steve Clarke today claimed the 10-match ban imposed on Luis Suarez for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic was too severe.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers yesterday accused FA of punishing "the man rather than the incident" and bizarrely claimed Prime Minister David Cameron had prejudiced the case by commenting.

The Reds had until noon today to appeal against the length of the ban and Clarke said: "There is no place for it (biting) in the game and he has been punished, rightly.

"But in my opinion the punishment is a little bit severe. I think it would be nice to get an explanation of how they got to 10 games.

"How did the independent panel come up with this figure of 10? That's worth an explanation so everybody knows guidelines going forward. There was a similar incident seven years ago (with Jermain Defoe) that was dealt with by a yellow card, yet seven years later it's a 10-game suspension. "

Rodgers said of the PM: "There's no doubt that if you have those high-profile figures making those sorts of statements there will be a bias."

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NASCAR penalizes Kenseth after engine fails

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) a' In just one of the largest fines in history, NASCAR stripped Matt Kenseth of anything nevertheless the trophy from his success at Kansas after his motor failed a post-race examination. NASCAR said Wednesday certainly one of the eight connecting rods in the motor of the No. The minimum weight requirement was not met by 20 Toyota. While it was possibly a quality control problem by motor company Toyota Racing Development a' and one that gave no benefit to Kenseth in Sunday's competition a NASCAR levied a severe punishment against a Cup team for the next week in a line. Kenseth was stripped of 50 driver points in the rankings a he earned only 48 points for the victory a and NASCAR also removed the three reward points he earned for the win that will have already been applied in seeding for the Chase for the Sprint Cup champion. In addition, the victory will not be credited toward his eligibility for a card berth in the Chase. So, although Kenseth has two wins on the entire year, the Kansas win does not count in any kind toward his Chase membership. Kenseth also lost his pole prize, that could harm his membership for next year's Sprint Unlimited exhibition race. NASCAR hanging team key Jason Ratcliff for six contests, fined him $200,000 and placed him on probation before end of the entire year. And in an unusual move, car owner Joe Gibbs had his owner's license suspended for the next six events and he will not make car owner things throughout that time. He also was docked 50 motorist details. Toyota, which provides the JGR motors through Costa Mesa, Calif.-based TRD, also lost five points in producer rankings. The punishment to Kenseth, who kept off Kasey Kahne of Hendrick Motorsports to make his second win of the period, dropped him from eighth to 14th in the standings. JGR said it'd appeal the penalty. "It is our knowing that one of the seven connecting rods on the motor was decided also light," the statement said. "We are working with your partners at TRD on this issue." Lee White, president of TRD, said the street was three grams underweight and JGR had nothing regarding the error. Full responsibility is taken by "we for this problem with the engine. JGR is not active in the means of selecting elements or assembling the Cup Series engines," White said. "It was a simple oversight on TRD's part and there was no intent to deceive, or to acquire almost any competitive advantage. Toyota is a company that was built on honesty, and that remains certainly one of the guiding principles of the company. The goal of TRD has always been a' and will remain a' to build high-performance applications that are reliable, tough and effective, and within the principles established by NASCAR." The Kenseth penalties seriously the heels of NASCAR penalizing Penske Racing for using components it said were unapproved in the trunk suspension of its vehicles at Texas. NASCAR docked 25 points each from defending champion Brad Keselowski and teammate Joey Logano, fined the crew chiefs $100,000 each and hanging eight Penske employees for six events. Penske Racing's charm is planned for Might 1. NASCAR is far tighter about engine infractions and severely punished the final violator, Carl Long, who was found with an illegal engine at the 2009 All-Star Race. Long was docked 200 points a' which would be about 50 points under the current points program a fined him $200,000 and suspended him for 12 events. His suspension was reduced to eight events on appeal, but Long has said he is struggling to pay the fine and can't operate in Sprint Cup until the debt is settled by him. NASCAR has stripped a of Chase bonus points once before, in 2008 when Carl Edwards dropped 10 bonus points under an older rating system for not having an address on his gas tank following a gain at Vegas. The success stood, but Edwards was not in a position to bring the 10 bonus points into the Chase. His crew chief was also stopped six races.

Manchester United Win 2012-13 Initial League, Reach The Wild Levels of 20 Titles [PHOTO]

Manchester United would be the winners of the 2012-13 Premier League after convincingly whipping Aston Villa 3-0 at Old Trafford. The latest Premier League triumph could be the last English top trip title that the Red Devils have acquired. Sitting on 84 things, Manchester United won the title with four suits remaining in the main reason. A lot of the credit to tonightas gain would go to Robin van Persie who scored three targets against Villa, including one gorgeous volley that has been similar to his target for Arsenal against Charlton from a several years before. After losing the title on the closing day of the season last year, this season was cruised to a Premier League title by Manchester United with convincing advantages throughout the season. United only lost four matches all period a against Everton, Manchester City, Norwich and Tottenham Hotspur. Another greatest top flight record in England is held by Liverpool who have won the top flight prize 18 times. Congratulations to Manchester United and Sir Alex Ferguson on a 20th top flight name.

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