The Winnipeg Goldeyes are proud to announce that the American Association has selected Winnipeg and the Goldeyes organization to host the 2014 American Association Game at Shaw Park on Tuesday, July 29, 2014. The two-day event will begin Monday, July 28 with a fan fest event and skills competition in the evening at Shaw Park. The following day, Tuesday, July 29, the all-star luncheon and youth skills camp will take place in the afternoon, followed by the 2014 American Association All-Star Game at 7 p.m. "We are thrilled to be able to host our fellow American Association teams for this great event," Goldeyes general manager Andrew Collier said. "Our staff is working hard to ensure it will be a marquee event in downtown Winnipeg this summer for our fans to enjoy." This is the third time the Goldeyes will host the mid-summer classic, having done so for the Northern League in 2001 and 2008. This is also the first time since 2010 that the American Association will hold an all-star game. The managers of the two teams that played in the 2013 American Association Championship Series will each lead a side in the all-star game. Greg Tagert, manager of the 2013 American Association Champion Gary SouthShore RailCats, will manage one team, while Kevin Hooper, manager of the Central Division Champion Wichita Wingnuts, will manage the other team. The format of the game will be released at a future date. Hines Ward Jersey . In the Brewers six games this season, no starter has allowed more than three runs. "We see the guy in front of us do a great job and we want to do even better," Gallardo said after the Brewers beat the Red Sox 4-0 on Sunday, his second straight scoreless start. Cameron Sutton Jersey . -- Thirty years ago, the Detroit Pistons beat the Denver Nuggets 186-184 in triple overtime, a game that remains the highest scoring in NBA history. http://www.cheapsteelersjerseysauthentic...cmillian-jersey. It was a day that saw England slump off a World Cup field once again battered and bruised. This time there was no red card to wonder about, no goalkeeping error or individual mistake. They were thoroughly beaten by something they have nothing of – genuine world class ability. Mike Webster Jersey . Ted Ligety, Mikaela Shiffrin, Bode Miller and Tim Jitloff underlined the squads enormous potential on the Rettenbach glacier in Austria. T. J. Watt Jersey . The 26-year-old Regina native teamed up with Denny Morrison and Mathieu Giroux to win gold in 2010. Makowsky also was 13th in the 5,000 metres and 19th in the 1,500m in Vancouver. He also represented Canada at the 2014 Games in Sochi, helping the pursuit team finish fourth and finishing 28th in the 1,500.Lexington, KY (SportsNetwork.com) - Kentuckys next big test was supposed to come this weekend against a national powerhouse, not during a midweek game against an Ivy League school missing its best player. But there were John Caliparis top-ranked Wildcats, yet to score a point after five minutes against Columbia. There they were, trailing at halftime. And there they were, after 26 minutes, still yet to hold a lead. But in the end, there was enough. Aaron Harrison scored 14 points and Kentucky finally pulled away in the last 10 1/2 minutes on Wednesday night to avoid what would have been a crushing upset ahead of Saturdays game against No. 21 North Carolina. The Wildcats beat the Lions 56-46 in the first meeting between the teams since the 1966 NCAA tournament. Final Score: (10) Kansas 75, Georgetown 70 Washington, DC (SportsNetwork.com) - Brannen Greene scored 19 points and No. 10 Kansas survived to take a 75-70 victory over Georgetown on Wednesday. Frank Mason III scored 14 points and Perry Ellis gave 13 points and 10 rebounds for the Jayhawks (7-1), who have won six straight after a loss to Kentucky on Nov. 18. Joshua Smith had 20 points and five rebounds, L.J. Peak scored 18 and DVauntes Smith-Rivera gave 10 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for the Hoyas (5-3), who have lost three of their last four. Final Score: (12) Ohio State 97, High Point 43 Columbus, OH (SportsNetwork.com) - Kam Williams had 23 points off the bench to lead 12th-ranked Ohio State to a 97-43 rout of High Point on Wednesday. DAngelo Russell netted 18 points with nine rebounds, while JaeSean Tate tallied 12 points and Shannon Scott added 11 for the Buckeyes (7-1). John Brown led the Panthers (6-3) with 19 points in the loss. Final Score: (19) Maryland 67, NC Central 56 College PPark, MD (SportsNetwork.ddddddddddddom) - Rashaud Pack scored 17 points to lead No. 19 Maryland in a 67-56 victory over NC Central at the Xfinity Center. Jake Layman added 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting in a game the Terrapins hit on 63.6 percent of their first-half field goal attempts to build a 39-18 lead at the break. Melo Trimble finished with 12 points for Maryland (8-1). NC Central (6-4), the defending MEAC champions, had a five-game win streak halted despite Jordan Parks 18 points and 10 rebounds and a 14-point effort from Nimrod Hilliard. Final Score: (23) Northern Iowa 65, Denver 55 Denver, CO (SportsNetwork.com) - Seth Tuttle led four Panthers in double figures with 12 points and No. 23 Northern Iowa stayed unbeaten with a 65-55 win over Denver on Wednesday. Deon Mitchell and Wes Washpun each scored 11 points and Paul Jesperson added 10 for Northern Iowa (9-0), which shot a blistering 70 perce

CHICAGO -- Gio Gonzalez delivered another dominant performance, providing more evidence he is finally healthy again. It looks as if the shoulder problem that sidelined him for a month bothered the left-hander about as much as the opposing hitters. Gonzalez pitched two-hit ball over seven innings, and the Washington Nationals beat the Chicago Cubs 3-0 Saturday in the first game of a day-night doubleheader. Gonzalez had his way with one of the weakest lineups in the majors in his third start back from the disabled list, outperforming Dallas Beeler in the rightys major league debut. "Obviously coming (off) the DL and trying to work your way back is going to be a process," Gonzalez said. "Its not going to happen overnight. Its good to see little by little using fastball and changeup at the same time. Its good to know when you need them theyll be there." Anthony Rendon had three hits, including a two-out double against Beeler in the sixth before scoring the games first run on a wild pitch. He added an RBI triple off Justin Grimm and came home on a sacrifice fly by Adam LaRoche against Wesley Wright in a two-run eighth. Denard Span chipped in with two hits and scored a run. He also made a leaping catch in front of the centre-field wall after getting turned around on a drive by Justin Ruggiano in the fourth, and the Nationals snapped a three-game losing streak. Gonzalez (5-4) had little trouble against a team that came in with the majors second-worst batting average. He struck out seven and walked two while improving 2-0 in three starts after missing a month because of inflammation in his pitching shoulder. He shut down Chicago after throwing six effective innings in a 3-0 win at Milwaukee on Monday. Tyler Clippard worked the eighth and Rafael Soriano finished for his 19th save in 21 chances. As for Beeler, he was about as good as Gonzalez. Called up from Triple-A Iowa as the 26th man, he pitched four-hit ball while allowing an unearned run in six innings. "I was a lot calmer than what I thought Id be," he said. "I walked out there, took a deep breath, threw my warmup pitches, kind of looked around again, exhaled and I was like, All right, same game Ive been playing for the last 20 years." Beeler also singled in his first at-bat when he lined the first pitch he saw up the middle in the third, drawing big cheers from the crowd. Neither team got an extra-base hit until Rendon doubled to left in the sixth. He moved up on a passed ball by John Baker before Ryan Zimmerman walked, and he scored the games first run when Beeler bounced a changeup to LaRoche. Otherwise, it was quite a debut for the rookie. "He was commanding his pitches," Rendon said. "Sinker and cutter and a pretty good curveball out there." NOTES: The Nationals remain optimistic that OF Bryce Harper will return from a torn ligament in his left thumb early in the week, if not Monday. The 2012 NL Rookie of the Year, who was injured sliding head first into third in a game against San Diego in April, has been rehabbing in the minors. "Hes progressing really well," manager Matt Williams said. "I feel good at some point this coming week (he will return), Monday is a possibility." ... Washington recalled Game 2 starter Blake Treinen and reliever Xavier Cedeno from Triple-A Syracuse while optioning RHP Taylor Hill to the minor league club. ... Chicago OF Junior Lake was back in the lineup for Game 1 after sitting out Friday. He slid hard into a metal door in the outfield wall and left Thursdays game. ... The Cubs have their first scheduled Sunday off in 82 years because of the annual Pride Parade in Chicago. The last one was on June 19, 1932. Chicago played the Giants in New York on a Saturday and then visited Philadelphia on a Monday. Nikita Zadorov Jersey . Reimer is winless (0-2-1) since returning from a six-week absence due to concussion-like symptoms. The Maple Leafs dropped a 4-2 decision to the hosting Washington Capitals on Friday. Semyon Varlamov Jersey . The 34-year-old averaged 10.1 points and 2.7 rebounds in 82 games played in 2013-14 with the Utah Jazz. Jefferson has averaged 14.5 points, 4. http://www.cheapavalanchechinajerseys.co...her-jersey/.com) - Edmonton Oilers forward Taylor Hall left Saturdays game against the Senators in the second period with a left knee injury. Avalanche Jerseys From China . Peter Dawson took his long before he started the job. "I was playing an American one year at Oxford Golf Club, and he introduced me to this travelling mulligan," Dawson said. Anton Lindholm Jersey . -- Former Penn State coach Joe Paterno was admitted to the hospital Friday for observation due to minor complications from cancer treatments, his family said.Dustin Brown deflected in a Willie Mitchell slapshot for the game-winning goal in double overtime, as the Los Angeles Kings rallied to defeat the New York Rangers 5-4 in Game Two of the Stanley Cup Final, taking a 2-0 series lead. The Rangers held 2-0 and 4-2 leads in the game, but couldnt hold off the Kings, who have won three straight games in the postseason without holding a lead at any point in those three gaames. Brown, the double-OT hero, finished the game with the worst possession stats among Kings skaters. Mitchell, the 37-year-old veteran, logged 34:07 to rank third (behind the top pair of Drew Doughty -- 41:41! -- and Jake Muzzin) among Kings defencemen for time on ice. It was the first time since February 25, 2012 that defensive-minded Mitchell, who scored the Kings second goal, had a goal and an assist in the same game. (Incidentally, in all that ice time, Doughty had no shots on goal and only one attempt.) While Mitchell might count as some unexpected production, the Kings are getting used to big performances from RW Justin Williams, who had three assists to give him 23 points in 23 playoff games, tied with Jeff Carter, two points behind Anze Kopitar for the lead in the playoffs. Williams has eight points in his past four games, a stretch during which hes been on for 57.5% of the 5-on-5 shot attempts when hes on the ice. In a game that had many brilliant and exciting plays, the one that stands out, unfortunately, was the Kings third goal, scored 1:58 into the third period, when Kings LW Dwight King plowed into Henrik Lundqvist as D Matt Greenes shot from the point deflected off King into the net, cutting the Rangers lead to 4-3. Considering other goaltender interference calls in the playoffs, and even earlier in this game, its hard to fathom how King was granted immunity for invading Lundqvists crease, but it paid off and King had a strong night in general, adding an assist and on for 63% of the 5-on-5 shot attempts when he was on the ice. Rangers D Ryan McDonagh collided with King at the edge of the crease on that goal, though King was already in the blue paint at that point. McDonagh was front and centre in the action, scoring a goal and an assist for the Rangers, but McDonagh was also on the ice for the last three Kings goals.dddddddddddd After the King goal, McDonagh had the puck deep in the Rangers zone, tripped over Derek Stepan and turned it over to Marian Gaborik, leading to the game-tying goal. In overtime, McDonagh was matched up on Brown as he tipped in the game-winning goal. LW Mats Zuccarello was a threat for the Rangers, launching a game-high 11 shot attempts towards the Kings net. Only three of those made it on net, but Zuccarello did put up a goal and an assist, giving him 13 points for the playoffs. RW Martin St. Louis scored a nice one-time goal for the Blueshirts, but was dominated in terms of possession, on the ice for nine shot attempts for and 27 against during 5-on-5 play. The Rangers line of Chris Kreider, Rick Nash and Derek Stepan was territorially dominant, on for more than 64.0% of the 5-on-5 shot attempts when they were on. Kreider had an assist and had eight shot attempts, but was impressive physically, recording a game-high nine hits. Nash had a game-high eight shots on goal (10 attempts), but couldnt find his way to the scoresheet -- the story of his playoffs, as he has the best puck possession stats of Rangers forwards, yet has three goals and 10 points through 22

Each week, The Reporters put their thumbs out to the good and the bad in the world of sports. This week, they discuss Richard Sherman, Kevin Durant, the NFL Draft and the MLBs review system. Dave Naylor, TSN 1050 My thumb is down to Seattle Seahawk Richard Sherman for his view that the NFL would not have banned LA Clippers owner Donald Sterling for life because the NFL is "more of a bottom line league." Richard, youre known as a smart guy, so surely you can understand that the NBAs decision to ban Sterling was as driven by its bottom line as it was by its moral convictions. Yes, Adam Silver did the right thing, but the NBA commissioner was also doing the one and only thing that would ensure Sterlings racist words wouldnt carve into the NBAs annual $5 billion revenue pie. Youre right about the NFL being a bottom-line league. But thats precisely the reason Roger Goodell would have done the exact same thing that Adam Silver did. Steve Simmons, Sun Media My thumb is up to Kevin Durant, here on Mothers Day, for making the greatest MVP speech maybe any athlete has ever made. In winning the MVP of the National Basketball Association, Durant made a modest, heartwarming, thoughtful, emotional speech, thanking his mom, bringing tears to his eyes - and with that to the eyes of many, including his mother. Durant thanked every teammate individually, saying something special and personal about each, along with mentioning his coach and his general manager and the support staff of the Oklahoma City Thunder. If you didnt like Durant before, you do now. If you havent heard this - and the way the NBA presents awards between playoff games you might have missed it - please go to your computer, take the time, go to Youtube and find it online. Make that your gift to yourself today. Michael Farber, Sports Illustrated My thumb is down to the NFL Draft, not because, like all drafts, it mocks free-market principles, but because it is so staggeringly long. Three days of non-stop, non-action - men in suits calling the names of younger men in more stylish suits. Instead of gazing at Mel Kiper Jrs remarkable hair, you could have driven from Halifax to Vancouver and back to Calgary, enjoying this land and making several doughnut stops. You could have been reading Catch 22 instead of been obsessing over who went 22. Yeah, I get it. The NFL rules the world. But its draft needs an editor worse than the Browns need a quarterback. Dave Hodge, TSN My thumb is down to one part of baseballs video review system, and one part only - like the NFL Draft - it takes too long. Otherwise, its fine, bad calls by umpires that would otherwise stand are corrected. The absence of childish rants by managers enhances the game. The opportunity for fans in the stands to study the play in question is a real breakthrough, but the length of time it takes for umpires and the MLB war room to make their decisions is a problem - one that is easily fixed, mind you. If theres not enough evidence to overturn a call in a strictly-enforced time limit, then the original call prevails. And thats the way its supposed to work, so replay doesnt take too long. Antonio Gates Jersey . Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone dismissed Tuesdays massive anti-government protest in Manama as "a lot of kids having a go at the police." "I dont think its anything serious at all," Ecclestone was quoted as saying in The Guardian newspaper on Wednesday. LaDainian Tomlinson Jersey . Alfredo Simon lowered his ERA to 0.86, and the Reds beat the Chicago Cubs 4-1 Friday for their 16th win in their last 17 games at the Friendly Confines. http://www.cheapchargersjerseysauthentic...ersey.Leicester won 25-21 in a heated European Rugby Champions Cup group match on Sunday.Toulon said on its website on Wednesday that it decided to open an investigation after Leicester complained about the behaviour of prop Martin Castrogiovanni and fullback Delon Armitage. Wholesale Chargers Jerseys . There were no real chances until Augsburg broke the deadlock through Raul Bobadilla in the 33rd minute. Frankfurt failed to clear a cross and Bobadilla slotted home from close range at the far post. Jerry Tillery Jersey . According to a report from ESPN, the veteran safety has signed another one-year deal with the team Raiders, the team that drafted him, and who he returned to last year after a long stint with the Green Bay Packers.CHICAGO -- Bayern Munich forward Julian Green wants to play for the U.S. national team and has applied to FIFA to change his association from Germany. The 18-year-old, who was born in Tampa, Fla., played for Germany in three qualifiers for the 2014 European Under-19 Championship, making his debut last Oct. 10 against Belarus and getting assists two days later against Latvia and on Oct. 15 versus Scotland. He made his professional debut for Bayern on Nov. 27 as an 88th-minute substitute in a Champions League match at CSKA Moscow. FIFA since 2009 has allowed a one-time change in national team affiliation for a player who has appeared in an official match for a youth national team as long as the player had dual citizenship at the time. "We are absolutely thrilled," U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann said in a statement Tuesday. "He is a very special talent. We wanted him to feel comfortable with our program and listen to his heart when making this decision." Green trained with the U.S. team in Germany this month ahead of its exhibition game against Ukraine. "Obviously this was a big decision, and I spent a long time discussing it with my family,&quoot; Green said in a statement issued by the U.ddddddddddddS. Soccer Federation. "I was born in Florida and my father still lives there, so I have deep roots in the U.S. Im very proud to be representing the United States. "A big part of the decision was the experience I had in Frankfurt. All the players were super nice and welcomed me from the beginning. Clint Dempsey gave me a jersey with my name on it, and the way they supported me gave me a lot of belief. The coaches have shown a lot of trust in me, and now I hope to do everything I can to earn a spot on the World Cup roster." Green has been invited to the U.S. training camp ahead of an April 2 exhibition against Mexico in Glendale, Ariz. He will become the latest German-American to join the U.S. program under Klinsmann, following Jermaine Jones, Fabian Johnson, Daniel Williams, Timmy Chandler and Alfredo Morales. Klinsmann played for Germanys team that won the 1990 World Cup and the 1996 Europ

OTTAWA - North Bay Battalion centre Jamie Lewis has been suspended eight games for an anti-doping violation. A urine sample collected during in-competition doping control in May revealed the presence of methylhexaneamine, a prohibited stimulant, according to the Canadian Hockey League and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport. Under the rules of the CHL anti-doping policy, the 19-year-old was assessed the eight-game suspension for a first violation for using a prohibited substance. "Player Jamie Lewis and the North Bay Battalion Hockey Club were extremely co-operative throughout the process. We are completely satisfied that the player used a supplement, which he had purchased over the counter at a local retail outlet and had no knowledge that it contained a prohibited substance," said CHL president David Branch in a statement. Methylhexaneamine is banned in competition by the World Anti-Doping Agencies Prohibited List, which is recognized by the CHL. In Canada, methylhexaneamine is not an ingredient in medications licensed by Health Canada, but can be found in supplements. Joe Smith Jersey . TSN2 December 18 Knicks at Bulls 8pm et/5pm pt TSN2 December 18 Thunder at Warriors 10:30pm et/7:30pt TSN2 December 21 Pacers at Timberwolves 7pm et/4pm pt. TSN2 December 23 Timberwolves at Cavaliers 7pm et/4pm pt TSN2 December 25 Wizards at Knicks 12pm et/9am pt TSN December 25 Thunder at Spurs 2:30pm et/11:30pt TSN December 25 Cavaliers at Heat 5pm et/2pm pt TSN December 25 Lakers at Bulls 8pm et/5pm pt TSN December 25 Warriors at Clippers 10:30pm et/7:30pt TSN NBA on TSN - January Date Game Time Network January 1 Kings at Timberwolves 8pm et/5pm pt TSN2 January 3 Jazz at Timberwolves 8pm et/5pm pt TSN2 January 5 Nuggets at Timberwolves 8pm et/5pm pt TSN2 January 7 Rockets at Cavaliers 7pm et/4pm pt TSN January 7 Suns at Timberwolves 9:30pm et/6:30 pt. TSN January 9 Bulls at Wizards 8pm et/5pm pt TSN2 January 9 Cavaliers at Warriors 10:30pm et/7:30pt TSN2 January 13 Timberwolves at Pacers 7pm et/4pm pt TSN2 January 15 Thunder at Rockets 8pm et/5pm pt TSN2 January 15 Cavaliers at Lakers 10:30pm et/7:30pt TSN2 January 16 Cavaliers at Clippers 10:30pm et/7:30pt TSN2 January 22 NBA All-Star Selection Show 7pm et/4pm pt TSN2 January 22 Spurs at Bulls 8pm et/5pm pt TSN2 January 22 Nets at Clippers 10:30pm et/7:30pt TSN2 January 25 Heat at Bulls 1pm et/10am pt TSN January 25 Thunder at Cavaliers 3:30pm et/12:30pm pt TSN January 26 Timberwolves at Thunder 8pm et/5pm pt TSN2 January 29 Nuggets at Grizzlies 8pm et/5pm pt TSN2 January 29 Bulls at Lakers 10:30pm et/7:30pt TSN2 NBA on TSN - February Date Game Time Network February 5 Clippers vs. Khyri Thomas Jersey . Dane Dobbie and Shawn Evans each had two goals and two assists for the Roughnecks (8-5), who outscored Minnesota 6-2 in the fourth quarter after being tied through 45 minutes. Curtis Dickson scored once and set up three more for Calgary and Dan MacRae, Geoff Snider, Tor Reinholdt, Karsen Leung and Matthew Dinsdale. http://www.cheappistonsjerseys.com/?tag=...eaves-jersey.28 mph. Logano will start on the front row next to Penske Ford teammate Brad Keselowski, who came in second Friday at 193.099. The Penske drivers swept the top two spots for the second straight race, reversing their qualifying finish in Phoenix a week ago. Cheap Swingman Pistons Jerseys . 28 with a Vancouver entry for the first time in 10 years and a novel new collective bargaining agreement. Bruce Brown Jr. Jersey . Already owning gold from competition in Vancouver in 2010, Loch posted a combined four-run time of 3:27.526. That included a track-record third run of 51.NEWCASTLE, Australia - Australia remained on course for its maiden Asian Cup title after defeating United Arab Emirates 2-0 in a semifinal at Newcastle Stadium on a wet Tuesday.Playing in Newcastle for the first time in almost 20 years, the Socceroos took a firm grip on the contest when defenders Trent Sainsbury and Jason Davidson punched in their first international goals inside the first 15 minutes.Australia march on to the final against South Korea at Sydney on Saturday, when the host hopes to go one step better than its 2011 final loss to Japan. South Korea beat Australia 1-0 in the group stage 10 days ago.UAE, which knocked out defending champion Japan 5-4 on penalties in the quarterfinals, couldnt find a breakthrough to spark a fightback, despite another leading performance by star Omar Abdulrahman.UAE faces Iraq in the third-place playoff at the same venue on Friday.Australia and the UAE had never met in a competitive match, and their last two friendlies ended in scoreless draws, but the host needed only three minutes to make a dream start.Massimo Luongos corner was met by Sainsbury, who took advantage of some slack marking to guide in his header.Australias eagerness to dominate midfield in the first half was best epitomized by Robbie Kruse, who dispossessed Abdulrahman while missing one of his boots.Kruse created the next Australia chance when the wingers dinked cross fell close to Tim Cahill..dddddddddddd. In the ensuing scramble, Mathew Leckies shot was blocked, but Davidsons follow-up shot slid past goalkeeper Majed Naser to double their advantage in the 14th.Davidson became Australias 10th different scorer of the tournament.Ahmed Khalil, who was UAEs most impressive player in the first half, fired a warning of UAEs strength in attack

The Houston Texans have re-signed cornerback Elbert Mack, who was an unrestricted free agent. Terms of the deal were not released. Mack, 27, had eight tackles in eight games for the Texans last season and has 111 tackles, six interceptions and 17 passes defensed in 73 NFL games for Houston, New Orleans and Tampa Bay. Tim McCarver Jersey . Indeed, must be among the greatest challenges in all of sports. The pressure he applies, from set to set, game to game, point to point, shot to shot. Greg Luzinski Jersey . Asdrubal Cabrera had four hits and three RBIs, Michael Brantley also homered and the Indians beat the injury-riddled Minnesota Twins 9-4 Thursday for their first three-game winning streak this season. http://www.cheapphilliesjerseyschina.com/chase-utley-jersey/. The CFL unveiled its 2014 schedule Wednesday and the Redblacks will play their first-ever regular-season game in Winnipeg against the Blue Bombers on July 3. Authentic Phillies Jerseys . -- Washington Capitals forward Brooks Laich is expected to miss the rest of the regular season after having an operation on a groin muscle. Dave Cash Jersey . The biggest collapse in franchise history was a long time ago, and he was too busy trying to make sure it didnt happen again.You never forget your first. It is what you judge all others against. It may not have been the best World Cup but it was yours. Your own personal experience with the greatest sporting event the world can offer you. A World Cup stays with you. As time drifts away from each one the immediacies of every day life tend to fade some of the memories away and recent tournaments, unless it was your first, have simply not matched up to the emotions your first romance with the World Cup generated. World Cups of recent memory have all been special in their own way, bringing together a carnival of the sport for a month, but they left many of us wanting more; giving us far too few moments of real greatness. And then there was this one. If it was your first, you have no idea how fortunate you are. The 2014 version returned to the home of the Carnival. It arrived in Brazil desperate to be a good World Cup again. It departs as a truly fantastic World Cup. Brazil 2014 laughed in the face of hyperbole. While World Cups of recent memory needed false statements of grander to gain attention, this one allowed for the use of exaggeration and, in some aspects, desperately needed it to convey just how important the evidence on show was. As your first World Cup showed, how we all experience this tournament is truly a personal adventure, but no World Cup in recent memory will have been enjoyed by so many people. There is a good chance it was the greatest ever; featuring the most remarkable result in the 84-year history of the tournament. Group Stage Day two. Game three. Almost half-time. The run. The pass. Oh the pass. To understand why Andres Iniesta arrived home in Spain on Day 13 of the World Cup, when half of the teams hadnt even completed their group games, we must go back to the pass. The midfield mastermind didnt look, he didnt need to. It was close to 445pm local time in Salvador when the Barcelona man slipped countryman David Silva through with one of the passes of the tournament. Spain, in complete control of their first match and already ahead by a goal, were about to double their lead. Except thats not what happened. Silva couldnt score and within a minute one of the greatest World Cup goals youll ever see took place, as Robin Van Persie became the new flying Dutchman, heading brilliantly over Iker Casillas. Suddenly a very thick, direct line between the last World Cup and this one could no longer be drawn. Spain never recovered and became the third World Champion in the last four World Cups to leave after their group games ended. (The Canadian Press) The tone was set. Games changed drastically in second halves, there were goals galore, many of them scored by headers, often caused by counter-attacks, and when the dust settled, with half of the teams eliminated, over a fabulous 21-day period, we had witnessed the greatest World Cup group stage ever. It was a World Cup where the minnows of Costa Rica won a group featuring three former World Champions, where previously dysfunctional teams like Mexico and France excelled and Europes major players like Italy, England, Portugal and Russia joined Spain on a flight home. It was a group stage of surprises, where tactically versatile and organized sides shocked the so-called super powers of the game. A group stage that saw the renaissance of 3-5-2, used so well by surprise teams like Netherlands, Costa Rica and Mexico. A group stage of headers, with 27 more following Van Persies belter from another brilliant pass, this time by the best left back in the tournament, Daley Blind. (The Canadian Press) A group stage of comebacks. Spain, massacred by the Dutch 5-1 in the third game of the tournament, was already the second team, after Croatia a day earlier, to lose a game they led. A small, exclusive group of only four from 2010 was dwarfed as Uruguay, Japan, Ecuador, Algeria and Australia joined them in the first week. During their second group games Germany, Ghana, Portugal and USA all managed to not win games against each other that they led in. The reigning world player of the year, Cristiano Ronaldo, didnt have much of a say on this World Cup, due to injuries and ineffective team-mates, but he did produce a pass, as good as Iniesta and Blind, that landed on the head of Silvestre Varela in the final seconds of their dramatic game against the United States. It was just another moment at this World Cup you wanted to watch on repeat with Avicii on in the background. Brazil 2014 was a party that was alive and kicking, exhilarating, heartbreaking and magnificent every single day. Even Uruguay, Greece and Algeria had comebacks of their own, all qualifying for the last 16 despite losing their opening World Cup match. Only Spain did that in 2010. Any mention of Uruguay, of course, brings back memories of another biting incident by Luis Suarez, with this time Italys Giorgio Chiellini becoming his victim. That FIFA acted swiftly to ban him should be commended. That Uruguays captain and manager backed him and used it as a rallying cry against English speaking journalists was a real pity. That we had a World Cup of many terrific moments is a relief. Yes, it will always be apart of what happened at this World Cup, but anyone who thinks of this World Cup and thinks of the bite first is, likely, not as big of a fan of the sport than they think they are. (The Canadian Press) It became the group stage of counter-attacks, once again ignited by the Dutch over Spain as they scored their last three goals with a combined 29 seconds in possession, and never more highlighted than when Switzerland broke away in the final seconds to score a dramatic, crucial winner over Ecuador. It became the group stage of creative, left-footed masters like Lionel Messi, Arjen Robben and the sensational James Rodriguez who all glided across the field into space left open by a transition and produced some wonderful moments. It was the group stage of substitute goals, 24 in total, highlighted by Miroslav Klose joining the great Ronaldo on 15 World Cup goals and, of course, James Rodriguez dancing his way through the Japanese defence for one of the goals of the tournament. In the end, though, it was the group stage of goals as an incredible 136 went in. Just nine fewer than the entire 2010 tournament combined. Group Winners – Brazil, Netherlands, Colombia, Costa Rica, France, Argentina, Germany, Belgium For the third time in the last four World Cups, three teams that were not seeded won groups. For the second successive World Cup, the only seed that didnt progress through to the next stage was the previous winners (Spain 2014, Italy 2010). Runners-up: Mexico, Chile, Greece, Uruguay, Switzerland, Nigeria, USA, Algeria. Teams eliminated in the group stage in reverse order based on performance in Brazil - 32. Honduras31. Cameroon30. Japan29. South Korea28. England27. Iran26. Bosnia & Herzegovina25. Russia24. Portugal23. Australia22. Spain21. Croatia20. Ivory Coast19. Italy18. Ghana17. Ecuador Best XI from teams eliminated in group stage – Alexander Dominguez (ECU); Serge Aurier (IC) Andrea Barzagli (ITA), Walter Ayovi (ECU); Gervinho (IC) Muhamed Besic (BHZ) Christian Noboa (ECU) Luka Modric (CRO) Ivan Perisic (CRO); Tim Cahill (AUS) Enner Valencia (ECU) An expected wind of caution blew around Brazil as it entered its third week. It began with a party in Belo Horizonte between the hosts and Chile but by the second half of that match the tense nation had been drowned in nerves. They werent the only ones. Colombias brilliant dismantling of a poor Uruguay, featuring a gorgeous goal from James, aside, every game of the first knockout stage was close and gripping. Brazil and Costa Rica narrowly got through on penalties, Louis Van Gaals comeback kings did it again, this time scoring twice after the 88th minute to knock Mexico out, while France, Argentina and Germany all narrowly got past terrific displays by Nigeria, Switzerland and Algeria respectively. And so it was down to Belgium to try and ensure all eight group winners made it to the last eight for the first time. Salvador, the site of so many other superb matches, delivered once again with one of the finest extra time periods youll ever wish to see. The Americans, outplayed for much of the contest, were never beaten until the final whistle brought the curtain down on a pulsating act and history was made. Teams eliminated in the last 16 in reverse order based on performance in Brazil – 16. Uruguay 15. Greece 14. USA 13. Switzerland 12. Algeria 11. Nigeria 10. Mexico 9. Chile Best XI from teams eliminated in last 16 – Guillermo Ochoa (MEX); Fabian Johnson (USA) Kostas Manolas (GRE) Rafa Marquez (MEX) Ricardo Rodriguez (SUI); Ahmed Musa (NIG) Charles Aranguiz (CHI) Jose Vazquez (MEX) Hector Herrera (MEX); Xherdan Shaqiri (SUI) Alexis Sanchez (CHI). The danger of a knock-out tournament is that teams, undeservedly, can go further than they should. This spectacular World Cup had no time for that either in Brazil. All four of the quarter-finals, played over two gripping days across the country, were all close but not one of the teams that went home should have felt any form of injustice. France, and their coach Didier Deschamps, had discovered a new identity as winners in Brazil, a likeable team that people back home could relate to but in the end, much like against Spain in Euro 2012, they were no match for a superior passing side as Germany eliminated them with another headed goal. Costa Rica defended brilliantly but were the second best team in the penalty shootout loss to Netherlands while Belgium were extremely ordinary against an ordinary Argentina who finally got someone other than Lionel Messi to step up in a big moment when Gonzalo Higuain, reacting on instinct, sent his team into the semis for the first time since 1990. The round, though, will be remembered for Brazils win over Colombia. Two goals from set-pieces were just about enough to get the hosts through and although James scored his tournament leading sixth goal it wasnt enough for Jose Pekermans side. Brazil were average again but their South American foes hadnt started playing until the last 15 minutes in what was a brutally physically match where the referee forgot about his duty to protect the players. Neymarr was the biggest casualty from the match, breaking a vertebrae in his back, but anyone who blamed the referee should have also been targeting Fernandinho and his own manager as they clearly played an enormous part in making it such a battle.dddddddddddd (The Canadian Press) Teams eliminated in the quarter finals in reverse order based on performance in Brazil – 8. Belgium 7. Costa Rica 6. France 5. Colombia Best XI from teams eliminated in QF: Keylor Navas (CR); Cristian Gamboa (CR) Mario Yepes (COL) Raphael Varane (FRA) Giancarlo Gonzalez (CR); Juan Cuadrado (COL) Paul Pogba (FRA) Blaise Matuidi (FRA) James Rodriguez (CR); Bryan Ruiz (CR) Karim Benzema (FRA). As the tournament entered its final week all eyes remained on the so-called dream final. Argentina and Brazil, on opposite sides of the draw, had reached the last four together for the first time ever. A possible all South American final inside the Maracana still existed as the semi-finals kicked off. Twenty-five minutes later that dream was crushed. There he stood, wiping away the tears from beneath his glasses. A boy in a Brazil shirt, not old enough to have remembered any of the reasons for the five stars above the crest. When goal number four went in, the third in three minutes, it all became too much. He sobbed. He wasnt the only one. A nation that had drowned themselves in sorrow and self-pity since the Neymar injury were watching their national team get annihilated in a game they thought belonged to them. Germanys 7-1 demolition of Brazil was the most remarkable result in World Cup history. Toni Kroos, Sami Khedira, record breaker Klose and others were remarkably ruthless, and it was a clear sign that Germany had learned and become confident, from four years earlier, to press high and create transitions in the oppositions half. Nevertheless, this was a game where the hosts capitulated in Belo Horizonte. It began with David Luiz and Julio Cesar holding up the jersey of their injured striker Neymar as if he was dying. What a pity that was the strongest bit of emotion we saw from Brazil the entire game. Instead of FIFA recognizing the life of the wonderful Alfredo Di Stefano, who had died hours earlier, or the lives of two people who died from a bridge collapsing nearby, the Brazilian public got what they wanted. Luiz Felipe Scolari allowed the irrational emotions of the public to enter the dressing room and the result was Brazil were not mentally prepared to play a monumental match in front of their own people. Once they trailed in the game, they were finished. It was a massive missed opportunity and a striking example of how not to prepare for a tournament. Brazil would be best advised to read how New Zealands All Blacks ran through scenarios ahead of time if they lost their key number ten, Dan Carter, in the 2011 Rugby World Cup. When it happened, they were ready to withstand adversity. Brazil, like the bridge, tragically collapsed and it was without doubt one of the most astonishing games in the history of the sport, let alone the World Cup. Argentina completed their end of the bargain, progressing through a penalty shootout against the Dutch after a desperately drab affair in Sao Paolo. Semi-finalists placed in order of 3rd/4th place playoff – 4. Brazil 3. Netherlands. FINAL It was a spectacular final. Like all great sides, Germany again rose above the challenges and were worthy world champions. This time the challenges came thick and fast. Sami Khedira hurt in the warm up, Christophe Kramer, his replacement, taken off inside 30 minutes with a head injury, their left side exploited, Toni Kroos handing Gonzalo Higuain a golden moment to score and yet Germany were able to walk off at half-time still at 0-0. They went on to dominate the second half, playing their own way, with centre-backs Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng having standout performances, stepping up and getting tight on Lionel Messi when needed. Argentina got deeper as the game wore on but continued to defend brilliantly as a unit. Mesut Ozil, playing centrally, led the press, not close to as effectively as Toni Kroos has in the past but Ozil was far better than in any other game. Argentina were also much better than in past matches. Yet, it still remained 0-0. Germany were in control, led by the magnificent Bastian Schweinsteiger who was the best player on the pitch. All that lacked for Germany was an end product. Miroslav Klose had to play longer than needed, but when Mario Gotze came on the attacks were crisper. Still Argentina defended deep but, with just seven minutes away from penalties, Andre Schurrle dribbled the ball, Gotze made a run and the two substitutions combined to put Germany ahead. Fittingly, in a World Cup where 32 subs scored goals, the 171st and final goal of the World Cup went to a sub. Germany had done it. They were the deserved winners. Argentinas players, many in tears, stood and watched as the brilliant Philipp Lahm lifted the World Cup but as you looked at them there was only Javier Mascherano who truly played well enough to say he deserved to be a champion. The debate will rage on and on comparing Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, of course. What a pity. It was not a game, or a team, that got the best out of Messi, who clearly is not at the level he was at two years ago for Barcelona. In truth, he may never reach such an incredible high again but it is a real shame that this generation cannot appreciate watching him in a World Cup final, one Argentina wouldnt have been in without him, without comparing him to a player who played a sport that was vastly different to the one we watch today. Golden Boot Winner & Golden Ball Winner Lionel Messi won the official Golden Ball but James Rodriguez was the true champion. FIFA continues to get that decision wrong and we shouldnt overly obsess about their incompetence over an individual award in a team sport. (The Canadian Press) James Rodriguez. The only player in the tournament to score goals with his left foot, right foot and head, the man known as Hamiss should never be called Jayms ever again. The loss of Radamel Falcao was supposed to be a big one for Colombia but it allowed them to play with one striker, which gave the Monaco magician more of a central role to star. His World Cup was only five minutes old when he produced a stunning ball to Cuadrado from a deep-lying playmaker role. He followed it up with a run and dummy that allowed Pablo Armero to score. His corner led to goal number two against Greece and he scored the third. In game two he scored a brilliant header against Ivory Coast and then started a transition – pressing Didier Zokora – that led to the next goal. He played only one half against Japan, came on, set up two Jackson Martinez goals then produced a stunning chip for a sensational goal. In the next round, against Uruguay, he scored the goal of the tournament, then finished one on his right foot to make it 2-0 and take Colombia to the quarter finals for the first time. Against Brazil he scored from the penalty spot. Colombia scored 12 goals at the World Cup and he was directly involved in 11 of them. For the first time they played with an arrogant swagger in a World Cup and that was all because of James. Total Goals Scored in past 4 World Cups under this current format - 145 (2010) 147 (2006) 161 (2002) 171 (1998). Total Goals Scored in Brazil 2014 - 171 A sensational 31 of these goals were headers. Two years ago, the 2012 European Championships broke their record for the amount of headers with 22 and this was easily the most headed goals in any World Cup, a wonderful sign in an era that once could have been defined by the narrow shape of 4-2-3-1. Top 10 goals – 10. Haris Seferovics counter attacking goal for Switzerland vs Ecuador. 9. Eduardo Vargas finishes off a brilliant, passing counter attack vs Spain 8. James Rodriguez vs Japan – the touch, the dribble, the look, the lob 7. Yacine Brahimi completes a superb team move for Algeria to make it 4-1 against South Korea 6. David Luizs free kick vs Colombia & the emotion in his face as he celebrated 5. Xherdan Shaqiris long range opener vs Honduras 4. Lionel Messi vs Iran finally gets some space and blasts it home in injury time from outside the box 3. Tim Cahills thunderous volley vs Netherlands 2. Robin Van Persies diving header against Spain 1. James Rodriguez vs Uruguay. The look, the control on the chest, the turn and the technique. Sensational. Top 10 games – 10. Belgium 2-1 USA9. Switzerland 2-1 Ecuador8. Australia 2-3 Netherlands7. Germany 2-2 Ghana6. Nigeria 2-3 Argentina5. USA 2-2 Portugal4. Spain 0-2 Chile3. Brazil 1-1 Chile2. Spain 1-5 Netherlands1. Germany 7-1 Brazil My team of the tournament – (4-3-3): Manuel Neuer (GER) Philipp Lahm (GER) Mats Hummels (GER) Giancarlo Gonzalez (CR) Daley Blind (NED); Javier Mascherano (ARG) Toni Kroos (GER) James Rodriguez (COL); Lionel Messi (ARG); Thomas Muller (GER) Arjen Robben (NED). Conclusion It was a great World Cup that waited sometime for greatness to emerge from a team. Germany did that in some style in the semi-finals and went on to show why they truly are a great team, winning their first World Cup since 1990. They become the first European team to win a World Cup in South America and considering their group, the location of their games in the intense heat of the north, and their defeats over Brazil and Argentina, this will go down as a true great champion. It is a victory that didnt come down to just one night, one week or, even, one month. We have to think of Vienna 2008, losing to a Spain side in the Euro final and getting a glimpse into what has to

Liverpool Ladies will be supporting Discovery’s Fields of Dreams project this month following their visit to South Africa earlier this year. Liverpool played two friendly matches in Soweto in February after accepting an invitation to come out on tour from insurance giants Discovery, who are behind the project.It is focused on developing a sports field and facilities in the Alexandra township in Johannesburg that can be used to host sports clinics, aimed at encouraging local youngsters to be physically active. Two-time FA WSL 1 winners Liverpool visited Johannesburgs Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory during their February visit and are now supporting Discoverys campaign on Mandela Day on July 18.In November 2009, the UN General Assembly declared July 18 Nelson Mandela International Day in recognition of the former South African Presidents contribution to the culture of peace and freedom.On Monday, Liverpool supporters in the United Kingdom will have the chance to donate to the Fields of Dreams Project by texting and donating YNWA16 followed by an amount of their choice to 70070.Supporters who make a donation will then be entered into a random prize draw to win prizes such as tickets to a first team match, tickets to a Liverpool Ladies match as well as a signed shirt from the Womens Super League side. Katie Zelem was on target in 2-1 win over Yarona Ladies in Soweto Liverpool Ladies manager Scott Rogers said: It is brilliant for Liverpool Ladies to be able to support Discoverys Fields of Dreams project again, which we all experienced first-hand in South Africa earlier this year.Hopefully we are able to raise a lot of money on Mandela Day to help continue the fantastic work that Discovery carries out with the Fields of Dreams project.Head of experiential marketing for Discovery in South Africa, Iona Maclean, said: We believe that the Discovery Field of Dreams initiative has the power to change lives and show Discoverys commitment to transform and empower the youth through the culture of sport.We are excited to launch the Madiball campaign in association with Liverpool FC, in order to raise funds for the next generation of football heroes in the Alexandra community. Gemma Bonner (r) and Alex Greenwood chose red hard hats for Anfield visit Meanwhile, redevelopment work at Anfield has reached an exciting milestone after work to fit the iconic club crests to the front of the Main Stand got underway this week.The installation of the 9m (30ft) high and 6m (20ft) wide giant emblem, which arrived in sections, is expected to take a number of days to complete.Liverpool Ladies duo Gemma Bonner and Alex Greenwood visited Anfield last week, to see how the stadiums refurbishment was progressing and to meet some of the women helping to build the Main Stand.Upon completion, Anfields Main Stand will become one of the largest all-seater single stands in world football.It is a real privilege for myslf and Alex to be invited to be invited to look at the progression made with the expansion of the new Main Stand, Ladies skipper Bonner said.The Main Stand looks really impressive and supporters will be able to enjoy even more of a matchday experience once the expansion is completed. Also See: Liverpool video Liverpool fixtures Liverpool stats Get a ￡10 free bet! Wholesale Reds Jerseys .J. Hardy to avoid a three-game sweep after blowing a big early lead. Odour had a leadoff single in the seventh and scored the tiebreaking run with the help of two errors by Hardy as the Rangers went on to beat the Orioles 8-6 on Thursday night. Cheap Chris Sabo Jersey . - Houston defensive end J. http://www.cheapredsjerseys.com/. Boston is making its first appearance in the ALCS since 2008. For Detroit, its a third straight trip to the ALCS and its fourth in eight years. Cheap Pete Rose Jersey . -- The court fight over NFL concussions should heat up soon as a judge in Philadelphia weighs the fairness of the proposed $765 million settlement. Cheap MLB Jerseys Authentic . The CFL unveiled its 2014 schedule Wednesday and the Redblacks will play their first-ever regular-season game in Winnipeg against the Blue Bombers on July 3.Andy Murray won the Madrid Open last year but must fight his way through the worlds best players to defend his crown. Sky Live: Madrid Open Were live all week on Sky Sports Murray defeated clay court king Rafael Nadal 12 months ago to lift the Madrid title, a prize he first collected eight years ago to stake his claim as a talent worth keeping an eye on.Sky Sports have tried to plot Murrays route to this years final... Radek Stepanek - round of 32 Radek Stepanek has the first crack at Murray The Czech defeated Vasek Pospisil for the right to play Murray, and interestingly owns a victory in their recent match. That was two years ago at Queens, but Murray has an overall 5-2 winning record against the 37-year-old.Traditionally, Murray doesnt adapt to the clay season particularly quickly so Stepaneks best chances of a shock result could lay with the Brits rusty habits.Gilles Simon - last 16 Gilles Simon strikes a smash The Frenchman must first steer himself beyond Marcos Baghdatis then, in all likelihood, the unseeded Grigor Dimitrov to book a tie against Murray.Simon is the 16th seed in Madrid but also has a very poor head-to-head record against the Dunblane man. Murray has won 13 of their 15 matches - Simon won their very first meeting 11 years ago but also won in Rotterdam last year.Murray has won all four of their meetings at the Madrid Open and has also notched up clay court wins in Hamburg and Monte Carlo against this possible opponent.Tomas Berdych - quarter-final Kim Sears explicit language intensified the Murray-Berdych rivalry The Czech player is a long-time rival and an ominous potential opponent should both men secure quarter-final spots.Personal animosity stems from Berdychs use of Dani Vallverdu, who previously worked wwith Murray, as his coach.dddddddddddd Murrays future wife Kim Sears became embroiled last year after swearing during a previous match between the pair.The world No 8 Berdych is on the wrong end of a 6-7 record against Murray, which is a very respectable tally considering one of his wins was during the 2013 Madrid Open. In total, three of Berdychs wins have been on clay. Expect more fireworks if both players advance this far.Rafa Nadal - semi-final Rafa Nadal has won eight of nine clay court games against Murray The greatest ever clay court players hopes of making the semi-final will have been boosted by Roger Federers late withdrawal - they were due to collide at the quarter-final stage.The path has become clearer for Nadal to force a rematch against Murray of last years final. The Spaniard holds a remarkable record against the Brit given the struggles with injury he has suffered in recent years - Nadal has won 17 and lost just six, and has won four of the last five.Murray may have beaten the clay king on his own patch last year, but Nadal has won their other nine meetings on the red dirt. Novak Djokovic - final Novak Djokovic has won his last five against Murray Intriguingly, the Djokovic-Murray wrote its first ever chapter at the 2006 Madrid Open before either man had reached the pinnacle of the sport that they now dominate.A decade ago, the mighty Serb won the last-16 clas

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Kyle Blanks homered in his home debut at the Coliseum and Derek Norris capped Oaklands five-homer day with a grand slam and the Athletics snapped a season-long four-game losing streak with a 10-0 win over the Detroit Tigers on Monday. Brandon Moss and Josh Donaldson each hit their 12th home run and Yoenis Cespedes also went deep for the As, who broke out of their recent slump by getting homers from five players for the first time since 2009. That backed another strong start from Tommy Milone (3-3), who allowed four hits in 6 2-3 scoreless innings to improve to 3-0 with a 1.03 ERA in his past four starts. The As got four solo homers against Drew Smyly to win the first meeting of the season against the team that eliminated them in Game 5 of the division series the past two postseasons. Oakland returned home mired in its worst skid of the season, having scored seven runs in the four losses to Tampa Bay and Toronto. That led to a pregame message on the clubhouse white board imploring the team to take the "slow torture" approach of grinding out at-bats rather than the "instant kill" of a home run that ends a rally rather than starts one. The As broke out of their slump without following that advice as they got homers from five players for the first time since Jack Cust, Kurt Suzuki, Mark Ellis, Daric Barton and Cliff Pennington did it Sept. 11, 2009, at Minnesota. After squandering a prime scoring chance in the first inning when Oakland put runners on first and third with no outs, the As got to Smyly with the longball. Moss got it started with a drive that hit off the glove of a leaping Austin Jackson and went over the centre-field fence in the second inning. Two batters later, Blanks hit a no-doubt shot to left-centre for his first home run since being acquired before the start of the teams recent nine-game road trip. Oakland wasnt done, getting back-to-back shots from Donaldson and Cespedes in the third inning to take a 4-0 lead to the delight of the third sellout crowd of the season at the Coliseum. Coco Crisp added a sacrifice fly and Donaldson hit an RBI single in the fourth inning to make it 6-0. Norris hit his first career grand slam in the eighth off Phil Coke in a rally helped by a catchers interference against Bryan Holaday and an error by third baseman Nick Castellanos. NOTES: Oakland is 20-3 when scoring first. ... Smyly was the first Tigers pitcher to allow four homers in a game since Max Scherzer did it in a 10-7 win over the Yankees on April 3, 2011. ... Miguel Cabrera started at 1B for the Tigers a day after leaving early with a right hamstring cramp. 2B Ian Kinsler got the day off. ... Scherzer (6-1) starts for Detroit on Tuesday against Sonny Gray (5-1) in a matchup of two of the top starters in baseball. 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The Heat reached that mark Saturday night when they ruined the Philadelphia 76ers home opener.MELBOURNE, Australia - Rafael Nadal kept telling anyone who would listen that his fitness levels wouldnt stand up to the rigours of a two-week Grand Slam tournament. Tomas Berdych proved him right.Nadal, who had played only eight matches since last June coming into the Australian Open because of a right wrist injury and appendix surgery in early November, was knocked out in the quarterfinals 6-2, 6-0, 7-6 (5) on Tuesday by Berdych — who had lost 17 straight matches to the Spaniard.It is obvious that I needed something more to be more competitive, Nadal, a 14-time major winner, said. As I said when I arrived here, the process always is not easy. When you have injuries, comebacks are difficult. But without being at my top level of tennis, I was able to be here in quarterfinals. Is not a bad result at all for me.Berdych, while thankful for the win, was reminded of a quote from the late Vitas Gerulaitis after beating Jimmy Connors for the first time in 16 matches: Nobody beats Vitas Gerulaitis 17 times in a row.So no one, not even Nadal, could beat Berdych 18 times in a row?Ive heard that one already, Berdych said, smiling.The other mens semifinalists will be determined on Wednesday when top-seeded Novak Djokovic plays Milos Raonic and defending champion Stan Wawrinka takes on U.S. Open runner-up Kei Nishikori.Berdych will play sixth-seeded Andy Murray in the semis after the British player beat local hope Nick Kyrgios 6-3, 7-6 (5), 6-3. Kyrgios came back from two sets down and saved a match point in the fourth round Sunday before beating Italian Andreas Seppi, the player who eliminated Roger Federer in the third round, but there was no such comeback on Tuesday.The 19-year-old Kyrgios, who walked onto the court with his headphones on and gave two thumbs-up to the crowd, was at his crowd-pleasing best. After hitting a backhand drop shot at the net for winner in the second set, he spread out his arms for applause, and in the third set, he hit a between-the-legs shot that Murray easily returned.It was a tricky match, Murray said. I tried to start as quick as posssible because I know how dangerous Nick is.dddddddddddd Hes a huge hitter of the ball, so I tried to keep it out of his strike zone as much as possible. Thankfully it worked.Kyrgios, who beat Nadal in the fourth round at Wimbledon last year, likes Murrays chances now that both Nadal and Federer are out of the Scotsmans half of the draw.I said to him at the net, This is your time, go for it. I think hes got a really good chance of winning the whole thing, Kyrgios said.On the womens side, Maria Sharapova moved closer to another Australian Open title, defeating 20-year-old Eugenie Bouchard 6-3, 6-2.The Russian made all the big points look easy and advanced to play Ekaterina Makarova, who earlier beat third-seeded Simona Halep 6-4, 6-0.I felt pretty good from the start, didnt feel I had too many letdowns, Sharapova said, adding that her close call in the second round — facing two match points against a qualifier — sharpened her focus for the rest of the tournament.The last time Sharapova and Bouchard met — in the semifinals at the French Open last year — Bouchard won the first set before Sharapova came back to take the next two. The Russian then won the title at Roland Garros.This time, Bouchard, who made the finals

The Winnipeg Jets make their final road trip of the preseason tonight to play the Calgary Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome. Viewers in the Jets region can watch the game live on TSN3 at 9pm et/6pm pt, or listen live on TSN 1290 Winnipeg with coverage starting at 7:30pm et. The Jets are 2-3 in the preseason, but are coming off a 2-1 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday. The Flames are 4-3 in the preseason and have won two straight games. Calgary defeated the Colorado Avalanche 2-0 on Tuesday. The two teams wrap up their preseason schedule against each other in Winnipeg on Saturday. For the Jets, Ladislav Smid is returning to the lineup after being with a mouth infection that caused him to lose four teeth. The Flames will have first-round draft pick Sam Bennett back in the lineup after the forward missing two games for maintenance. Forward Mikeal Backlund skated Thursday morning after missing the majority of training camp with an abdominal strain. Flames head coach Bob Hartley said he expects Backlund to practice with the team on Friday and did not rule out the Swedish centre being ready for the Flames opening game, though it would be unlikely. Jets Practice Lines LW C RW Ladd Petan Frolik Kane Scheifele Ehlers Lowry Perrault Halischuk Tangardi Slater Thorburn LD RD Stuart Trouba Clitsome Bogosian Pardy Ellerby G Hutchison Taylor Flames Practice Lines LW C RW Gaudreau Monahan Hudler Glencross Stajan McGrattan Byron Bennett Setoguchi Baertschi Colborne Jooris LD RD Giordano Brodie Russell Engelland Smid Wideman G Ramo Hiller Terrence Ross Jersey . Since coming to the big leagues in late May, La Stella is 6 for 7 with the bases loaded, driving in 13 runs in those at-bats. Youth Magic Jerseys . -- The Sacramento Kings and guard Jimmer Fredette have completed a buyout of his contract, clearing the way for the former BYU sensation to become a free agent. http://www.cheapmagicjerseyschina.com/arron-afflalo-jersey/. Durant had 33 points, 12 rebounds and six assists, hit the tying 3-pointer late in regulation and made the go-ahead foul shots in overtime to lift the Thunder past the Wizards 106-105. John Wall missed a driving layup attempt at the buzzer for Washington, which was seeking its third straight win. Vince Carter Jersey .com) - The New York Islanders will try to solve their issues against Central Division opponents when they visit the Minnesota Wild for Tuesdays battle at Xcel Energy Center. Bismack Biyombo Jersey . -- Mike Shanahan gave Robert Griffin III a rest, and may have turned up the pressure on himself, too.BOSTON -- With both Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook sitting out for the first time since the franchise set up shop in Oklahoma City, the Thunder needed about a half to figure things out. And then the Western Conference leaders put the lottery-bound Boston Celtics away. "We take pride in playing hard no matter whos on the floor," coach Scott Brooks said after his team went on a 17-2 third-quarter run to beat Boston 101-83 on Friday night. "Obviously, were a better team with Kevin and Russell. But it doesnt make us not a team." Durant, the NBA scoring leader, missed his first game of the season, joining fellow All-Star Westbrook on the bench. That was only a minor setback, with Serge Ibaka scoring nine of his 21 points and adding five rebounds in the pivotal third quarter to lead Oklahoma City to its sixth straight victory. Jeremy Lamb came off the bench to score 19 points, and Reggie Jackson had 14 points and eight assists. "Everybodys just got to do their job a little bit better and a little bit harder," said Thunder centre Kendrick Perkins, a former Celtic, who had nine rebounds. "Its our first time playing without both of them, so it was good." Durant was the franchises first pick in 2007, its final year as the Seattle SuperSonics, and Westbrook was their first-round pick after the team moved to Oklahoma City for the following season. Together, they led the Thunder to the 2012 NBA Finals and were poised for another deep run last year before Westbrook was injured in the first round series against Houston. Oklahoma City has managed to stay atop the West with Westbrook out since Christmas to recover from right knee surgery. And Durant has been the reason, going on a scoring tear with at least 30 points in nine consecutive games before sitting out Friday night. But Durrant watched this one from the bench in warmups, then was icing his right shoulder in the locker room after the game, joking around with Westbrook.dddddddddddd "Theyre a good team without him -- as you can see," Celtics guard Phil Pressey said. Brooks said he did not know if his star would return on Saturday night against Philadelphia. "Well see how he wakes up," the coach said. Jeff Green scored 16 points and Gerald Wallace scored 12 of his 13 points in the first half, before the Thunder pulled away with a 17-2 run in the third quarter. Rajon Rondo had eight assists and five points in his fifth game since returning from reconstructive knee surgery. The Celtics have lost 13 of 15 games. "Theyre down Kevin Durant, and I think their team is thinking OK, this is an opportunity for a lot of guys that dont play as much when hes playing minutes," Celtics centre Kris Humphries said. "Something happened. You guys all saw the game. I

SAN DIEGO -- Arms waving and legs churning, Arizona is racing back into the Sweet 16. The rest of the bracket should take notice of this one. If they play like this, the Wildcats are going to be awfully tough to beat. Overwhelming Gonzaga with its contest-everything defence, Arizona looked very much like the top seed in the West, blowing out the Bulldogs 84-61 on Sunday to reach the Sweet 16 for the third time in four years. "That Arizona team we saw tonight was as good a team as we have faced, that I can remember," Gonzaga coach Mark Few said. "It was just too much for us tonight." Coming off a shaky NCAA tournament opener, Arizona (32-4) ended a wild first weekend of upsets and buzzer beaters with a display of domination. This was not the epic double-overtime game these teams played in the 2003 NCAA tournament. This was an eye-popping display of what one of the nations best teams can do when it gets rolling. The Wildcats overran Gonzaga (29-7) with their size, athleticism and quick hands to blow the eighth-seeded Bulldogs out of the bracket. Turning one of college basketballs most efficient teams on its head, Arizona scored 31 points of Gonzagas 21 turnovers -- 15 on steals -- and never gave the Zags a chance after racing out to a 21-point lead in the first half. Aaron Gordon had 18 points, six rebounds and six assists for Arizona. Fellow freshman Rondae Hollis-Jefferson also had 18 points and Nick Johnson finished with 17. Next up for Arizona is fourth-seeded San Diego State -- a team it beat in this same arena early in the season -- in the Sweet 16 just up the coast in Anaheim. "Tonight was one of our seasons best performances," Arizona coach Sean Miller said. "Obviously, you want to play well in the NCAA tournament and thats exactly what our team did tonight." Gonzaga has relied on its ability to control the game and take care of the ball during a run of 16 straight NCAA tournament appearances. Arizonas pressure ran the Zags ragged, leaving them trailing the Wildcats as they raced off to one layup after another. Przemek Karnowski scored 14 points and Kevin Pangos of Holland Landing, Ont., added 12 for Gonzaga, which hasnt reached the Sweet 16 since 2009. "We didnt do ourselves any favours," said Pangos, who kept playing after turning his ankle early in the game. "We let them feel pretty good about themselves. But they are a good team and they did speed it up a little bit." Arizona was jittery in its opener against Weber State, starting slow and allowing the Wildcats from Utah to claw their way back from a 21-point deficit in the second half to make it close. The first-game anxiety out of their system, the Wildcats played with confidence and plenty of energy against Gonzaga, sprinting up the floor after steals and defensive rebounds to set up easy shots in transition. Arizona made it look easy at times, dropping off passes for layups, flying in for alley-oops and spotting up for 3-pointers on the break. It was so good even Gordon, whose outside shot has been questioned, dropped in a 3-pointer. For good measure, he went in for what seems to become his signature move on the break, soaring up for a reverse dunk on an alley-oop from Johnson to put Arizona up 38-20. Gonzaga shot well against one of the nations best defences -- when it could get shots off. The Bulldogs struggled with Arizonas theyre-everywhere defence, playing catch-up on the break as the Wildcats snared passes and stripped dribblers for eight steals in the first half. Gonzaga had 11 turnovers that Arizona turned into 19 points for a 47-34 halftime lead that would have been more if the Bulldogs didnt make a late run. Arizona had one turnover and 13 assists on its 17 field goals -- 34 attempts -- with Gordon and Hollis-Jefferson combining to hit 8 of 9 shots while scoring 12 points each. "What we did today was push the tempo," Gordon said. "We noticed they werent getting back as well as they should and we just kept that going throughout the game." The second half started like this: two possessions by Gonzaga, two turnovers. Arizona kept the show going from there. Johnson had the defensive highlight of the half, tracking down David Stockton to block what appeared to be a breakaway layup and the ball went off a Gonzaga player, to boot. The offensive reel was highlighted by Gordon, who soared in for a rebound slam over two Gonzaga players. No chance for the Bulldogs and, if Arizona keeps playing like this, not much of one for anyone else. 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Both players struggled with their first serve, as Carreno Busta landed just 51 per cent of his to 47 per cent for Kukushkin.LONDON - It took a $380,000 payment from a stunt-prone bookmaker to persuade former France international David Ginola to launch an improbable bid to unseat FIFA President Sepp Blatter.With the fee secured, Ginola started his campaign on Friday by decrying the credibility of Blatters FIFA before admitting he knew little about the governing bodys processes or institutions.The former Paris-Saint Germain and Tottenham player could not name a member of FIFAs ruling executive committee, which includes Blatter, and looked dumbfounded when asked about the International Football Association Board, which sets the rules of the game.I need to know a lot more about FIFA, Ginola, who is known beyond football for his suave model looks and shampoo adverts, responded, looking uncharacteristically flustered.But the 47-year-old Ginola only has until Jan. 29 to convince five of the 209 national associations to endorse his campaign.Even if Ginola produces the required nominations, FIFA requires proof he has filled an active role in football for two of the last five years. His most recent role as listed on the press release announcing his candidacy is as an international campaigner for Englands failed bid to host the 2018 World Cup, which ended in 2010.FIFA ethics judge Joachim Eckert in November said there were potentially problematic facts and circumstances surrounding Englands bid.I wasnt really in the big conversations, Ginola acknowledged on Friday, playing down his function.After previously showing little interest in a job in football politics, Ginola reconsidered when approached by Irish bookmaker Paddy Power, which is better known for stunts like offering odds on Oscar Pistorius murder trial.One of the biggest challenges confronting world football centres on bookmakers funding a sport that is also trying to tackle the problem of match-fixing through illegal betting markets. Even a commercial behemoth like FIFA does not have a betting sponsorship, and Ginolas involvement with a commercial sponsor appeared to immediately undermine his proposed candidacy.I need to be paid because Im not a football player anymore, Ginola said.Former England striker Gary Lineker, who also worked on Englands World Cup bid, said on Twitter: Not entirely sure a campaign backed by a publicity seeking bookmaker is the answer to all FIFAs ethical problems.Despite his name being touteed, Lineker has repeatedly ruled out challenging Blatter, who is running for a fifth, four-year term as president in May.dddddddddddd. FIFA Vice-President Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein of Jordan and former FIFA official Jerome Champagne also want to enter the race, but have not said if they have the required five nominations.Ginolas campaign team admitted that it has yet to receive any indication that a federation will back the bid. To achieve that, the team has recruited David Larkin, who runs the Change FIFA Twitter account that is followed by around 19,000 and mostly relays links to articles.Ginolas media release said: Change FIFA is an affiliation of football fans working for positive change in the game.Larkin, who appeared alongside Ginola at the media conference, acknowledged that the organization is effectively the Twitter account run by himself and another man. Change FIFA never appears to have held an event, has no business office listed, lacks a website and has no means for fans to register and join it.When people need help and they contact me I am happy to help, said Larkin, who is registered as a patent attorney.Change FIFA in 2011 backed the candidacy of Elias Figueroa, a three-time South American Player of the Year. It failed to gain one nomination, which was required then.Ginolas campaign said it is based on ensuring transparency at FIFA. The London-based publicity firm hired to run the campaign told reporters on Thursday that Ginolas candidacy would be revealed at a fashionable Soho hotel on Friday — and not before. But on Thursday Ginola conducted an interview with a British tabloid, which was posted online later in the day.Ginola himself acknowledged at his campaign launch: If we cant remove all suspicion and doubt from football then it cannot be trusted. And trust is what we need above anything else.Ginola is seeking 2.3 million pounds ($3.5 million) for the campaign via a crowd funding program.It could be over in two weeks, but Ginola will still be 250,000 pounds better off. And a bookmaker, whose branding was plastered over the launch, will have received free publicity worth far more than that.The likely outcome, health permitting, is that Blatter will be re-elected, given the widespread support already in place for the 78-year-old incumbents campaign.___Rob Harris can be followed at www.twitter.com/RobHarris Cheap Buffalo Sabres Gear Wholesale Calgary Flames Jerseys Cheap Adidas Colorado Avalanche Jerseys Montreal Canadiens Outlet Store Wholesale New Jersey Devils Jerseys Adidas Arizona Coyotes Jerseys Cheap Adidas Boston Bruins Jerseys Cheap Adidas Carolina Hurricanes Jerseys Chicago Blackhawks Shop Free Shipping Wholesale Columbus Blue Jackets Jerseys Dallas Stars Shop Free Shipping Cheap Adidas Detroit Red Wings Jerseys Anaheim Ducks Jerseys China Wholesale Edmonton Oilers Jerseys Florida Panthers Shop Free Shipping Wholesale Los Angeles Kings Jerseys Minnesota Wild Outlet Store Cheap Adidas Nashville Predators Jerseys Cheap Adidas New York Islanders Jerseys New York Rangers Winter Classic Jerseys Cheap Adidas Ottawa Senators Jerseys Cheap Adidas Philadelphia Flyers Jerseys Wholesale Pittsburgh Penguins Jerseys Cheap Adidas San Jose Sharks Jerseys St. Louis Blues Winter Classic Jerseys Wholesale Tampa Bay Lightning Jerseys Toronto Maple Leafs Outlet Store Vancouver Canucks Outlet Store Cheap Adidas Vegas Golden Knights Jerseys Cheap Adidas Washington Capitals Jerseys Cheap Adidas Winnipeg Jets Jerseys ' ' '

VANCOUVER - Vancouver Canucks forward Daniel Sedin was taken off the ice on a stretcher late in the second period of Sunday nights regular-season finale against the Calgary Flames after taking a hit from behind. Sedin crumpled to the ice after getting hit in the numbers by Calgarys Paul Byron in the Vancouver zone with 2:44 left in the period. The Canucks trainer rushed to Sedins side and immediately signalled for a stretcher. Sedin, who appeared to be moving his fingers on a television replay, was fitted with a neck brace and placed on a backboard. The Canucks said Sedin was taken in stable condition to Vancouver General Hospital to undergo further evaluation. He exhibited signs of movement to his extremities and showed improvement from initially being hit. Byron was assessed a five-minute penalty for boarding and a game misconduct. Sedin, a former Art Ross Trophy winner as the leagues top scorer, has struggled this year. He has 16 goals, including two Sunday against the Flames, and 31 assists. At one point he went 23 games without a goal. The left winger suffered a serious concussion on March 21, 2012, when he was elbowed in the head by Chicago Blackhawks defenceman Duncan Keith. Sedin missed four weeks while Keith was suspended for five games. Earlier this year Sedin missed nine games after suffering a hamstring injury while playing at the Heritage Classic game against the Ottawa Senators. Daniel and his twin brother Henrik signed four-year, US$28-million contract extensions this year. Derrick Pouliot Jersey . JOHNS, N. Cheap Canucks Jerseys . Liriano pitched in and out of trouble in his duel with Josh Beckett, and Ike Davis homered to help the Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 2-1 Friday night. http://www.cheapcanucksjerseyschina.com/...nce-jersey/.com) - The New York Jets have named Mike Maccagnan their new general manager. Sam Gagner Jersey . This weeks topics include his take on the Kevin Pillar incident, All-Star snubs, the firing of Padres general manager Josh Byrnes and more. Bo Horvat Jersey . - The Seattle Seahawks have signed nine players to 2014 future contracts, including quarterback B.The Canadiens look to turn the page from the embarrassing 5-0 loss to the Washington Capitals on Saturday and put an end to their four game losing streak as they welcome the Carolina Hurricanes. The Canes have been red hot as of late; theyre 7-3-0 in their last 10 games and are looking to extend their winning streak to five games tonight at the Bell Centre. . The Canadiens coaching staff has taken a positive approach when trying to get out of their slump. "Hes doing a great job of communicating with us, staying positive and keeping the mood light" Max Pacioretty said in regards to Michel Therrien. Therrien has been the one taking a lot of heat for the Canadiens ppoor performance, some have even suggested a coaching change is in order.dddddddddddd "Before you start looking at our coaching staff you need to look at the players on the team. Ive been a minus four in the last two games, we need to be better" P.K Subban said in defense of his bench boss. A win tonight could mean more than just picking up two points, it could lead to the momentum swing the Habs are in need of. "Every team goes through adversity at some point in the season and were dealing with it now; its how react to that adversity thats important. We will get through this, I am confident of that." Therrien told the media. Cheap Buffalo Sabres Gear Wholesale Calgary Flames Jerseys Cheap Adidas Colorado Avalanche Jerseys Montreal Canadiens Outlet Store Wholesale New Jersey Devils Jerseys Adidas Arizona Coyotes Jerseys Cheap Adidas Boston Bruins Jerseys Cheap Adidas Carolina Hurricanes Jerseys Chicago Blackhawks Shop Free Shipping Wholesale Columbus Blue Jackets Jerseys Dallas Stars Shop Free Shipping Cheap Adidas Detroit Red Wings Jerseys Anaheim Ducks Jerseys China Wholesale Edmonton Oilers Jerseys Florida Panthers Shop Free Shipping Wholesale Los Angeles Kings Jerseys Minnesota Wild Outlet Store Cheap Adidas Nashville Predators Jerseys Cheap Adidas New York Islanders Jerseys New York Rangers Winter Classic Jerseys Cheap Adidas Ottawa Senators Jerseys Cheap Adidas Philadelphia Flyers Jerseys Wholesale Pittsburgh Penguins Jerseys Cheap Adidas San Jose Sharks Jerseys St. Louis Blues Winter Classic Jerseys Wholesale Tampa Bay Lightning Jerseys Toronto Maple Leafs Outlet Store Vancouver Canucks Outlet Store Cheap Adidas Vegas Golden Knights Jerseys Cheap Adidas Washington Capitals Jerseys Cheap Adidas Winnipeg Jets Jerseys ' ' '