Syed Zainal Abidin (dari kiri) memberi penerangan kepada Eric Boullier, Vitaly Petrov dan Bruno Senna pada sesi lawatan pasukan Lotus-Renault di Pusat Kemerlangan Proton Shah Alam, semalam. - Utusan/ASWAD YAHYA
SHAH ALAM - Pengarah Urusan Kumpulan Proton Holdings Berhad, Datuk Seri Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir berkata, penglibatan syarikat pembuat kereta nasional itu dalam Formula Satu (F1) merupakan strategi pemasaran bagi mempromosi jenama kereta sport, Lotus pada peringkat antarabangsa.
Malah, katanya Proton tidak berhasrat untuk menceburi sukan pemotoran itu secara langsung, sebaliknya hanya mahu mengembangkan jenama Lotus semata-mata.
"Kami tidak pernah kata bahawa kami sebuah syarikat Malaysia mahu terbabit dalam F1. Ia hanya melibatkan Lotus dan sudah tentu sebagai pemegang saham, Proton yang merupakan sebuah syarikat nasional, secara tidak langsung turut mengaitkan nama Malaysia dalam usahasama ini," katanya.
Beliau berkata demikian selepas lawatan pasukan Lotus-Renault ke Pusat Kecemerlangan Proton di sini, semalam.
Turut serta pada lawatan itu ialah Pengarah Urusan dan Prinsipal Pasukan, Eric Boullier, pemandu Lotus-Renault, Vitaly Petrov, pemandu simpanan, Bruno Senna serta duta jenama Lotus yang juga legenda F1, Jean Alesi.
Menurut Syed Zainal Abidin, pihaknya lebih selesa penglibatan Lotus dalam F1 dapat dilakukan secara sistematik dan tersusun.
Jelasnya, sungguhpun Lotus merupakan jenama yang terkemuka, syarikat masih memerlukan strategi pemasaran yang berkesan bagi mempromosi lima kereta baru yang akan dipasarkan.
"Kami perlu memulakan perjalanan ini untuk mempromosi jenama kelima-lima kenderaan baru kami yang bakal berada di pasaran.
"Jadi, ini merupakan keputusan yang lebih bersangkut-paut dengan hal ehwal perniagaan kerana kami yakin F1 mampu memperkenalkan jenama Lotus. Langkah yang sama dilakukan Ferarri dan Mercedes," ujarnya.
Sementara itu, Boullier yang menjawab mengenai ketiadaan Nick Heidfeld pada lawatan tersebut berkata, pemandu Jerman itu tidak sihat dan memerlukan rehat yang cukup untuk perlumbaan Ahad ini.
Mengenai perlumbaan di Sepang, Petrov lebih senang merendah diri sambil menyifatkan perlumbaan di Sepang amat sukar.
"Sepang sebuah litar yang hebat, sukar untuk meramal apa yang akan berlaku, namun kami berada pada kedudukan yang mantap dan akan cuba menyaingi pasukan lain,'' katanya.
SEPANG - Pasukan Red Bull Racing akan membuat keputusan sama ada akan menggunakan sistem pendorong kuasa KERS semasa sesi latihan hari ini, setelah tidak menggunakannya pada pembukaan musim baru perlumbaan Formula 1 di Melbourne.
Pengurus Red Bull Racing, Christian Horner berkata, sistem tersebut akan diuji esok bagi menentukan strategi yang akan diguna pada perlumbaan Ahad ini.
''Keadaan sirkit di Melbourne berbeza dengan Sepang. Di sini, sirkitnya memiliki lebih banyak laluan lurus yang memerlukan daya pecutan yang kuat.
''Kita akan uji dan buat keputusan esok,'' katanya kepada wartawan Malaysia semasa ditemui pada majlis pengumuman pemasaran kereta jenama Infinity ke Malaysia di Litar F1 Sepang, semalam. Infinity adalah penaja Red Bull Racing.
Red Bull telah mengejutkan penggemar sukan tersebut apabila tidak menggunakan sistem KERS pada perlumbaan Grand Prix Melbourne tetapi pelumbanya, Sebastian Vettel masih mampu mencatatkan kemenangan selesa.
Vettel memenangi perlumbaan tersebut dan berada 0.8 saat di hadapan pesaingnya, Lewis Hamilton dari pasukan McLaren. Seorang lagi pelumba Red Bull, Mark Webber bagaimanapun, menamatkan perlumbaan di tangga kelima.
Difahamkan, Red Bull menghadapi masalah dengan sistem yang berasaskan bateri berat semasa sesi latihan dan memilih untuk menggunakan pendorong kelajuan tidak selanjar (intermittent) bagi mencapai keseimbangan di sekitar sikirt jalanan Albert Park.
Horner berkata, cabaran lain bagi dua pelumba Red Bull itu ialah suhu dan cuaca yang panas tetapi Sepang sememangnya telah diketahui sedemikian.
''Para pelumba telah datang awal dari Australia bagi membiasakan diri dengan cuaca panas. Berdasarkan ramalan kaji cuaca yang kami terima, terdapat kemungkinan 35 peratus akan hujan bermula pukul 4 petang Ahad ini.
''Apa pun keadaan, kami bersedia termasuk dengan tayar Pirelli yang didapati memberi prestasi lebih baik daripada yang dijangkakan semasa di Australia,'' katanya.
Tayar Pirelli tersebut kata Horner, yang mengandungi kandungan serupa yang akan diguna pada Grand Prix Malaysia Ahad ini walaupun cuaca dan keadaan sirkit akan memberi cabaran baru kepada prestasi tayar.
Menurutnya, kedua-dua pelumba Red Bull dalam keadaan yang sihat dan bakal memberi persembahan terbaik untuk memastikan matlamat dicapai iaitu mengungguli kedudukan satu dan dua.
Red Bull Formula One driver Sebastian Vettel of Germany locks his brakes during the Australian F1 Grand Prix at the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne on March 27, 2011. — Reuters pic
KUALA LUMPUR, April 8 — Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel will go into Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix as a heavy favourite, buoyed by a comprehensive season-opening victory in Melbourne a fortnight ago to kick off his world title defense.
Chasing a fourth consecutive win spanning the end of last season and the start of this one, the 23-year-old German could also have the added bonus of the KERS system power boost that the team opted against using at Albert Park.
Red Bull are expected to make a final decision whether to use the kinetic energy recovery system after Friday practice but with Vettel so dominant in Melbourne, his biggest danger is likely to be the notoriously volatile Malaysian climate.
Vettel stormed to victory around the demanding Sepang circuit a year ago, his cause aided by McLaren and Ferrari's woeful misjudgement of the conditions during qualifying that left them at the back of the grid on race day.
In 2009, Jenson Button, then driving for Brawn GP, won a rain-affected race that was halted by downpours after just 31 of the scheduled 56 laps and half points were awarded for the first time since 1991.
"Malaysia is the first real track we go to, as Australia is a semi-street circuit," Vettel said. "It's hot and rains everyday, but the question is when and how much? It will be a tricky one."
Rain is forecast throughout the race weekend and with the new Pirelli tyres expected to degrade quicker than they did at Melbourne in the sweltering Malaysian temperatures, team tactics will play a huge role on Sunday's outcome.
Vettel's Australian team mate Mark Webber had a disappointing home grand prix, finishing down in fifth after starting third on the grid, but Red Bull are hoping changes made to his car will see him run closer to the other RB7.
"In the sort of post mortem on the event, we found a few things on Mark's car, a few things set-up-wise, that certainly wouldn't have helped Mark, and all those elements have been changed for Malaysia," team principal Christian Horner said.
McLaren enjoyed something of a renaissance in Melbourne with 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton claiming a surprise second place after the team rejigged the car following a disappointing pre-season of testing in Spain.
Pecking order
Hamilton was delighted to finish 22.3 seconds adrift of Vettel in a car that had suffered considerable damage to its undertray in the final session and the Briton expects a truer picture of the championship pecking order to emerge this week.
"After the pace we showed in Melbourne, I think we can have another good race in Malaysia," Hamilton said. "Albert Park is a great track, but a circuit like Sepang is where the differences between the cars will start to become clearer.
"I'm really looking forward to using KERS Hybrid and the DRS (adjustable rear wing) too... the rapid change of direction you experience when the car is really in the groove is phenomenal around here."
The biggest disappointments in Melbourne were Ferrari and Mercedes. Both had promised much in pre-season testing but the Italians were let down by poor qualifying pace while neither of the German cars finished the race following early collisions.
Double world champion Fernando Alonso is far more optimistic of a better showing by Ferrari in Malaysia but remains wary of how much impact the weather will have over the weekend.
"We know we have to improve our performance level, but we are equally aware that in the end, the race result was not such a disaster," the Spaniard said of his fourth place finish in Australia.
"We will have a few minor updates on the car, but nothing very significant. I believe we must stay concentrated on our own work and try to understand how to get all the potential out of the (car) and I'm sure there's plenty to come.
"The fact that the weather can change so quickly here makes the preparation work for the various phases of work on track more stressful."
Seven-times world champion Michael Schumacher expects Mercedes to be in a "fighting mood" for the second round after lasting just 19 laps in Australia, the German believing it was far too early to write him off.
"There is absolutely no doubt we want to do better than in the opening race, which was a disappointment for all of us," the 42-year-old said.
"We clearly see that as a challenge and it is much too early to write us off. Everybody in the team remains positive and is in a fighting mood. So I expect a better weekend for us to come; a weekend we can build on." — Reuters
SEPANG, April 8 — Formula One's introduction of adjustable rear wings was intended to make overtaking easier and drivers agree this weekend's Malaysia Grand Prix will be the perfect venue to test its effectiveness.
The season-opener in Melbourne was highlighted by a prolonged battle for track position between Ferrari's Felipe Massa and McLaren's Jenson Button, but the short straights at Albert Park did little to suggest racing was more competitive.
Sepang, however, has two very long straights and with the Drag Reduction System (DRS) detection zone fixed yesterday on the final corner before the home straight, opportunities to overtake will be far more frequent than witnessed in Australia.
In the DRS detection zone, drivers must be within one second of the rival ahead of them to get the wing activated. In that area, drivers open a flap to gain more overtaking speed before it automatically closes when the brakes are deployed.
"I got pretty close to (Ferrari's) Fernando Alonso a few times in Australia and only once with (McLaren's) Lewis Hamilton on lap three," Red Bull's Mark Webber, who finished fifth, told reporters yesterday.
"Fernando was someone I expected to put more pressure on.
"But it was a characteristic of the corner onto the start-finish... it was too quick. And the entry to Turn One, even if you got close, it was easy for the guy to manipulate the line for you, and give you a different trajectory into the corner.
"Here will be a completely different story. If it doesn't work here I don't know where it will work. You have a slow corner to open the lap, a slow corner at the braking point, and Heathrow airport in between as well in terms of options, so it should work."
Button, who was handed a drive-through penalty in Melbourne after passing Massa illegally, enjoyed his battle against the Brazilian but expects Sepang to be a far better circuit to employ the DRS.
"It was frustrating but when you look at it now, it looks like a good race, I would say. But even with the DRS it is still very tricky to overtake at a place like Melbourne with such short straights," the Briton said.
"Sepang is one of those circuits where you can really have a good tussle as corners flow into each other," he added.
"I think with the DRS system it is going to make overtaking a lot easier than it was in Melbourne. Maybe it will be a little too easy, as I think being within a second before the last corner, even without DRS, you can have a good chance of overtaking." — Reuters
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID,SEPANG - Mark Webber, pebalap Red Bull Racing, yakin kejadian seri GP Australia tidak akan terulang di seri GP Malaysia pada Ahad (10/4) mendatang. Webber mengaku sudah melupakan kejadian GP Australia pekan lalu.
Webber hanya mampu finis posisi kelima pada seri GP Australia di Sirkuit Albert Park, Melbourne, pekan lalu. Dia tertinggal 38,171 detik dari rekan setimnya, Sebastian Vettel, yang keluar sebagai juaranya dengan catatan waktu 1:29:30,259.
Namun selepas balapan, ada isu yang menyebutkan bahwa Webber mendapat spesifikasi mobil yang membuatnya tidak bisa bersaing dengan Vettel secara fair. Vettel sebaliknya mendapat spesifikasi khusus yang membuat mobilnya lebih kencang dari mobil Webber.
Meskipun enggan untuk menjelaskan tentang apa yang sesungguhnya terjadi di Melbourne, Webber memastikan persaingan GP Malaysia akan berlangsung lebih baik.
''Beberapa isu muncul setelah balapan yang sama sekali tidak membantu memperbaiki situasi,'' kata Webber. ''Kami tidak akan masuk ke dalam isu tersebut. Saya tidak akan membuat makan dari apa yang terjadi di Melbourne. Jadi, mari kita bicara tentang Malaysia.''
RolaEl-Halabi, nama petinju wanita tersebut, ditembak dari jarak dekatoleh ayah tirinya yangpernahmenjadi manajernya.Luka-lukatembak tersebut tidakmengancam jiwanya, tetapi bisamembahayakankariernya.
El-Halabisaat itu sedang menunggupertarungan lawan IrmaBalijagicAdlerdari Bosniauntukmemperebutkan gelar IBF kelas ringan yang kosong. Ayah tirinya (44) tiba-tiba masuk ke ruang ganti dan menembak Rola.
Surat kabarBildmengidentifikasipria bersenjataitu sebagaiRoyEl-Halabi. Bild jugamelaporkanbahwa800penonton langsung dievakuasidariarena.
"Ayahbergegaske ruangan,"ceritaRolaEl-Halabi."Diamengancamkamidenganpistoldi tangannyadan berteriak''Semua keluar!''. Dia kemudianmenembak tangan sayadari jarak tigameter.Aku menangisdanberteriak."
BildmelaporkanbahwaEl-Halabiberpisahdariayah tirinyasebagaiseorang manajerpada Januari. "Ketikapunyamasalah, saya dapat berbicaradengandiatentang apa saja,kecualitentangcowok,"kataEl-Halabi."Itutabu." El-Halabimemilikirekor11-0denganenam kemenangan KO.
Sportshttp://www.mmail.com.my/admin/content/stories/9 enThanks, Rooneyhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68786-thanks-rooney <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Ferguson says Red Devils are in strong position into last four </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 13:17:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>LONDON:</strong> Manager Alex Ferguson admitted Manchester United were in a strong position to advance to the Champions League semifinals after beating Chelsea 1-0 at Stamford Bridge this morning.</p> <p>Striker Wayne Rooney scored the only goal of the game in the 24th minute — firing home a fine finish after Ryan Giggs had expertly brought down a terrific pass from Michael Carrick and cut the ball back into his path.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68786-thanks-rooney#commentsalex fergusonchampions leaguechelseamanchester unitedStamford BridgeWayne RooneyFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 05:41:41 +0000Allen68786 at http://www.mmail.com.myAncelotti: At least one penalty for Chelseahttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68784-ancelotti-least-one-penalty-chelsea <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 13:17:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>LONDON:</strong> Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti was convinced as to the certainly of his side's last minute penalty appeal during their 1-0 loss to Manchester United in their first-leg quarterfinal tie at Stamford Bridge this morning.</p> <p>Ramires steamed into the United box in stoppage time and took a tumble under pressure from Patrice Evra, who seemingly made no contact with the ball.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68784-ancelotti-least-one-penalty-chelsea#commentsCarlo Ancelottichampions leaguechelseamanchester unitedStamford BridgeFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 05:36:33 +0000Allen68784 at http://www.mmail.com.myMessi enjoys Facebookhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68771-messi-enjoys-facebook <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 12:48:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>BARCELONA:</strong> Lionel Messi has joined Facebook and landed almost seven million followers inside seven hours.</p> <p>Messi, who won the World-Player-of-the-Year award twice, joined the social networking site yesterday and wrote as his first post: "I am so excited! From now on we will be more closely connected through Facebook."</p> <p>He joins Barcelona teammates Andres Iniesta, Gerard Pique, David Villa and Pedro and Real Madrid rival Cristiano Ronaldo as Primera Liga Liga players with official fan pages on the site.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68771-messi-enjoys-facebook#commentsbarcelonafacebookLionel MessiFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 05:06:33 +0000Allen68771 at http://www.mmail.com.myMore successes please, says Porto boss Boashttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68777-more-successes-please-says-porto-boss-boas <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 12:47:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68777-more-successes-please-says-porto-boss-boas"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-10_55.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="233" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> LISBON:</strong> Porto manager Andre Villas Boas <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> has demanded more silverware ahead of their Europa League first-leg quarterfinal against Spartak Moscow tomorrow at Estadio do Dragao <strong>(2.05am)</strong>.</p> <p>The 2004 Champions League winners defeated Spartak's city rivals CSKA Moscow in the last round and Boas will not allow their recent domestic league title celebrations spill out onto the pitch.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68777-more-successes-please-says-porto-boss-boas#commentsAndre Villas BoasEstadio do DragaoEuropa LeaguePortoSpartak MoscowFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 05:14:22 +0000Allen68777 at http://www.mmail.com.myDossena: Napoli capable of winning Serie Ahttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68776-dossena-napoli-capable-winning-serie <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 12:47:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>ROME: </strong>Napoli defender Andrea Dossena is confident they can win the Serie A title this season.</p> <p>The <em>Partenopei </em>are currently second in the league standings — just three points behind leaders AC Milan.</p> <p>Napoli, under manager Walter Mazzarri, are enjoying a great season and along with Italian and European champions Inter Milan, are the only team left in the <em>Scudetto </em>race.</p> <p>Dossena believes his side can stretch Milan until the end.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68776-dossena-napoli-capable-winning-serie#commentsAndrea DossenaNapoliSerie AWalter MazzarriFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 05:13:44 +0000Allen68776 at http://www.mmail.com.myStop 'lynching' Rooney, says Ferdinandhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68755-stop-lynching-rooney-says-ferdinand <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 11:54:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>LONDON:</strong> Rio Ferdinand believes people need to stop "lynching" his Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney, after the striker hit the back of the net to steer United to a 1-0 win over Chelsea in their first-leg quarterfinal at Stamford Bridge this morning.</p> <p>The 25-year-old scored the only goal in the 24th minute, as the Red Devils managed to take a precious awaygoal to the reverse leg at Old Trafford next week.</p> <p>And in a season that has seen the striker having trouble on as well as off the pitch, Ferdinand believes Rooney deserves to be give some respect.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68755-stop-lynching-rooney-says-ferdinand#commentschelseamanchester unitedRed DevilsRio FerdinandStamford BridgeWayne RooneyFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 04:32:03 +0000Allen68755 at http://www.mmail.com.myShakhtar boss Lucescu stunned by heavy defeathttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68759-shakhtar-boss-lucescu-stunned-heavy-defeat <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 11:53:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68759-shakhtar-boss-lucescu-stunned-heavy-defeat"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-7_97.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="179" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> BARCELONA:</strong> Shakhtar Donetsk manager Mircea Lucescu <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> admitted that he did not expect the hammering his side were given by Barcelona at Nou Camp this morning.</p> <p>The Ukrainian outfit suffered a 5-1 defeat in the first leg quarterfinal tie and are now virtually out of the reckoning for a place in the last four.</p> <p>"We weren't expecting this," said Lucescu.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68759-shakhtar-boss-lucescu-stunned-heavy-defeat#commentsbarcelonaDarijo SrnaMircea LucescuNou CampShakhtar DonetskFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 04:36:10 +0000Allen68759 at http://www.mmail.com.myInspiring Valeriahttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68765-inspiring-valeria <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Iniesta dedicates goal to newborn daughter as Barca outclass Shakhtar </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 11:46:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68765-inspiring-valeria"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-8_89.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="82" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> BARCELONA:</strong> Attacker Andres Iniesta could not hide his delight as Barcelona thrashed Shakhtar Donetsk 5-1 in their first leg quarterfinal at Nou Camp this morning to cap off a magnificent week.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68765-inspiring-valeria#commentsFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 04:43:41 +0000Allen68765 at http://www.mmail.com.my'Never say die'http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68745-never-say-die <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Kuyt wants Liverpool to keep battling for European spot </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 11:46:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68745-never-say-die"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-6_97.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="106" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> LONDON:</strong> Liverpool attacker Dirk Kuyt <em><strong>(above)</strong></em> challenged his teammates to go the rest of the season undefeated and attempt to win the remaining seven games in order to secure European football next season.</p> <p>Tottenham now lead fifth position by five points with a game in hand over Liverpool, who feel frustrated they did not capitalise on their last weekend's trip to West Brom — losing 2-1.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68745-never-say-die#commentsDamien ComolliDirk KuytEPLEuropean footballLiverpooltottenhamEPLSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 03:53:39 +0000Allen68745 at http://www.mmail.com.myEnd of the road for Besthttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68741-end-road-best <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 11:46:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>LONDON:</strong> Newcastle confirmed that striker Leon Best is to undergo an ankle operation tomorrow and will miss the rest of the season.</p> <p>The 24-year-old, who has scored six goals this season from 10 starts, missed the Magpies' last two games with the injury.</p> <p>Best consulted the club's medical staff and it was decided he should travel to London for the operation.</p> <p>Best, who has made 11 appearances in total this season, scored a hattrick against West Ham on Jan 5 and also scored in the dramatic 4-4 draw with Arsenal and the 2-0 win at Birmingham.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68741-end-road-best#commentsEPLLeon BestMagpiesNewcastleEPLSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 03:49:12 +0000Allen68741 at http://www.mmail.com.myMore to comehttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68739-more-come <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Neale convinced Ferrari, Mercedes a force to be reckoned with </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 09:41:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68739-more-come"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/6_32.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="100" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> KUALA LUMPUR:</strong> McLaren expect more of a challenge from rivals Ferrari and Mercedes at this weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang.</p> <p>Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa were fourth and seventh for Ferrari in the season opener at Melbourne, while the Mercedes cars failed to finish.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68739-more-come#commentsF1Felipe MassaFernando AlonsoferrariFormula 1Malaysian Grand PrixmclarenMercedesSepangMotorsportsSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 03:45:44 +0000Allen68739 at http://www.mmail.com.myAlonso positive of Scuderia's futurehttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68737-alonso-positive-scuderias-future <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 09:41:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68737-alonso-positive-scuderias-future"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-4_119.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="107" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> KUALA LUMPUR:</strong> Ferrari's Fernando Alonso is adamant there is more to come from his team despite a slow start to the season at the Australian Grand Prix.</p> <p>Ferrari were expected to be one of the favourites to fight for victory in Melbourne following a very strong winter of testing.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68737-alonso-positive-scuderias-future#commentsF1Fernando AlonsoferrariFormula 1Lewis HamiltonMalaysian Grand PrixmclarenRed BullSebastian VettelMotorsportsSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 03:40:04 +0000Allen68737 at http://www.mmail.com.myRed Bull, Vettel will not retain title, says Hillhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68735-red-bull-vettel-will-not-retain-title-says-hill <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 09:41:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>LONDON:</strong> Former champion Damon Hill is convinced Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull will not walk away with this season's Formula 1 titles.</p> <p>Hill watched Vettel blow away the field at the season-opening Grand Prix in Australia 11 days ago, the German finishing a staggering 0.8 seconds clear of Lewis Hamilton in qualifying, before taking victory by 22 seconds from the McLaren driver.</p> <p>It was a comprehensive performance, but not totally without fault as Red Bull did not utilise the KERS power-boost system in either car over the weekend due to a glitch.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68735-red-bull-vettel-will-not-retain-title-says-hill#commentsDamon HillF1ferrariFormula 1mclarenRed BullSebastian VettelMotorsportsSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 03:36:21 +0000Allen68735 at http://www.mmail.com.myBryan, Fong Ying tipped for Masum Awardshttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68732-bryan-fong-ying-tipped-masum-awards <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 09:25:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68732-bryan-fong-ying-tipped-masum-awards"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-2_133.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="235" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> PETALING JAYA:</strong> Diver Bryan Nickson Lomas <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> and wushu exponent Chai Fong Ying are favourites to win the 2010 Malaysian University Sports Council (Masum) Sports Awards scheduled at Universiti Malaysia Sabah on Saturday.</p> <p>Both Bryan and Fong Ying were nominees for the recent National Sports Awards but lost out to eventual winners, cyclist Azizulhasni Awang and squash star Nicol David.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68732-bryan-fong-ying-tipped-masum-awards#comments2010 Malaysian University Sports Council Sports AwardsBryan Nickson LomasChai Fong YingKamaruzaman AhmadMasumSports opinionSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 01:35:11 +0000Allen68732 at http://www.mmail.com.myAccident waiting to happenhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68730-accident-waiting-happen <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 09:25:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68730-accident-waiting-happen"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/3_56.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="100" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> KUALA LUMPUR:</strong> First it was the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil. Then it was the Juara Stadium in Bukit Kiara.</p> <p>Now the National Aquatics Centre is in bad shape.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68730-accident-waiting-happen#commentsBryan NicksonJuara StadiumLeong Mun YeeNational Aquatics CentreNational Hockey StadiumPandelela RinongVijhay VickYang Zhu LingYeoh Ken YeeOther SportsSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 01:31:22 +0000Allen68730 at http://www.mmail.com.mySweet dreamhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68728-sweet-dream <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Choi aims to be first Asian to win Masters </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 08:23:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68728-sweet-dream"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-1_145.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="110" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> AUGUSTA:</strong> South Korean star K.J. Choi said he was working on keeping a nice, easy tempo this week as he tries to become the first Asian to win the coveted Masters green jacket.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68728-sweet-dream#commentsAugustaK.J. ChoiMastersPhil Mickelsontiger woodsGolfSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 01:25:08 +0000Allen68728 at http://www.mmail.com.myDonald well-prepared for challengehttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68726-donald-wellprepared-challenge <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 08:23:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>AUGUSTA:</strong> Luke Donald shrugged off the spectre of the Masters' Par-3 Contest jinx by winning the annual short-course contest yesterday — on the eve of the championship.</p> <p>Donald won the fun-filled nine-hole event that features player's children dressed as caddies and good natured competition with a score of five-under-par 22.</p> <p>Tied for second one stroke back were 1976 Masters champion Raymond Floyd and 2009 winner Angel Cabrera of Argentina.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68726-donald-wellprepared-challenge#commentsAugustaGraeme McDowellLouis OosthuizenLuke DonaldMartin KaymerMastersMasters' Par-3GolfSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 01:21:27 +0000Allen68726 at http://www.mmail.com.mySilverware blueshttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68781-silverware-blues <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> ...but Villarreal can strike it big this time </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 08:22:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68781-silverware-blues"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-11_50.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="228" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> MADRID: </strong>Striker Nilmar <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> thinks Villarreal now boast a squad that can earn the Yellow Submarine their first major trophy — with the Europa League in their sights.</p> <p>Villarreal have only been playing top-flight football in Spain since 1998 and are yet to get their hands on any notable silverware, but with the talent at their disposal it seems only a matter of time before that statistic is remedied.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68781-silverware-blues#commentsEuropa LeagueNilmarVillarrealYellow SubmarineFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 05:17:05 +0000Allen68781 at http://www.mmail.com.myKim Swee hoping for 'Ong'http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68734-kim-swee-hoping-ong <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Coach prays for better luck soon </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 08:22:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68734-kim-swee-hoping-ong"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-3_136.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="208" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> PETALING JAYA:</strong> Harimau Muda A coach Ong Kim Swee <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> is in for an emotional ride.</p> <p>Not only does he have to motivate his players after suffering two straight defeats in the Super League, he also has to keep close tabs on the well-being of his wife, Alodle Donna Derick who is in Malacca and is expected to give birth to their second child any time soon.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68734-kim-swee-hoping-ong#commentsAlodle Donna DerickAsian zone Olympic qualifierHaresh DeolHarimau Muda AOng Kim SweeSuper leagueFootballSportsThu, 07 Apr 2011 01:40:40 +0000Allen68734 at http://www.mmail.com.myTrue Bluesmanhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68657-true-bluesman <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Cech: 300 appearances down, but, who knows, maybe it can be 600 in years to come </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 13:24:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>LONDON:</strong> Petr Cech stated his long-term commitment to Chelsea by saying he wishes to double his tally appearances for the London club.</p> <p>The goalkeeper, who reached 300 Chelsea appearances in last month's 3-1 win over Blackpool, told his club's official magazine, Chelsea: "To hear someone say that you have made over 300 appearances for Chelsea sounds really nice, especially when, over that time, we have been regarded as one of the best clubs in Europe, and in the world.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68657-true-bluesman#commentsFootballSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 05:33:11 +0000Allen68657 at http://www.mmail.com.myBernabeu nightmarehttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68651-bernabeu-nightmare <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Real hammer 10-man Spurs to put one foot into semis </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 13:14:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68651-bernabeu-nightmare"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-10_54.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="109" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> MADRID:</strong> Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp expressed big disappointment at their 4-0 demolition at the hands of Real Madrid in their first-leg quarterfinal at Santiago Bernabeu this morning.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68651-bernabeu-nightmare#commentsAaron Lennonchampions leagueHarry RedknappPeter Crouchreal madridSantiago BernabeutottenhamFootballSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 05:23:23 +0000Allen68651 at http://www.mmail.com.myFrightening flight for Westwoodhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68649-frightening-flight-westwood <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 13:14:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68649-frightening-flight-westwood"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-9_67.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="123" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> AUGUSTA:</strong> The greens at Augusta are enough to strike fear into the heart of any golfer, but world number two Lee Westwood <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> came through a far worse scare on his way to the tournament after his private jet caught fire in mid-air.</p> <p>Westwood and his fellow Ryder Cup star Ross Fisher were en route from the Houston Open to the Masters when the fire broke out in the cockpit.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68649-frightening-flight-westwood#commentsAugustaBilly FosterHouston OpenLee WestwoodRoss FisherGolfSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 05:18:59 +0000Allen68649 at http://www.mmail.com.myPositive Woods confident of mounting challengehttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68654-positive-woods-confident-mounting-challenge <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 11:48:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68654-positive-woods-confident-mounting-challenge"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-11_49.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="195" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> AUGUSTA:</strong> Tiger Woods <em><strong>(pic) </strong></em>was gracious, smiling, on a few occasions and prickly, but above all positive as he discussed his bid for a fifth Masters title at Augusta National this week.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68654-positive-woods-confident-mounting-challenge#commentsaugusta nationalMasterstiger woodsGolfSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 05:29:20 +0000Allen68654 at http://www.mmail.com.myBridge of mysteryhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68647-bridge-mystery <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Evra hopes United can finally beat Chelsea away </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 11:48:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68647-bridge-mystery"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-8_87.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="169" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> LONDON:</strong> Leftback Patrice Evra knows Manchester United must focus for 90 minutes if they are to end their nine-year wait for a win at Chelsea tomorrow <strong>(2.45am)</strong>.</p> <p>Evra is among the majority of United players who head into the firstleg quarterfinal clash having never beaten the Blues at Stamford Bridge.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68647-bridge-mystery#commentsalex fergusonBlueschampions leaguechelseamanchester unitedPatrice EvraStamford BridgeFootballSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 05:13:55 +0000Allen68647 at http://www.mmail.com.myNothing less than a win will do, says Messihttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68644-nothing-less-win-will-do-says-messi <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 11:48:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>BARCELONA: </strong>Lionel Messi insists Barcelona have no choice but to beat Shakhtar Donetsk in their first-leg quarterfinal at Nou Camp tomorrow <strong>(2.45am)</strong>.</p> <p>"We know we have complicated opponents tomorrow who play well and have good players. It has always been complicated when we have played them before and it will be the same this time," he said.</p> <p>A draw with the Ukrainian club is non-negotiable for the Argentine superstar as he aims to jolt Barca's European aims into line.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68644-nothing-less-win-will-do-says-messi#commentsbarcelonaBlaugranachampions leagueDarijo SrnaJosepLionel MessiNou CampShakhtar DonetskFootballSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 05:10:42 +0000Allen68644 at http://www.mmail.com.myMcDowell not scared of Tiger anymorehttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68652-mcdowell-not-scared-tiger-anymore <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 11:31:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>AUGUSTA:</strong> There was a time when the prospect of playing in the same group as Tiger Woods at the Masters might have terrified Graeme McDowell, but not anymore.</p> <p>Indeed, Woods could now be excused for cursing his bad luck after being drawn to play alongside McDowell in the first two rounds at Augusta National this week.</p> <p>While Woods, a four-time winner at Augusta, has been struggling to rediscover his best form in the past year, McDowell has gone from strength to strength.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68652-mcdowell-not-scared-tiger-anymore#commentsaugusta nationalGraeme McDowellMasterstiger woodsGolfSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 05:26:28 +0000Allen68652 at http://www.mmail.com.myMoney down the drainhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68626-money-down-drain <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Priority must be given to future generations </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 11:31:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Lawatan sambil belajar. </em></p> <p>This is practised at every level of Malaysian society — from politicians to school teachers. It has been highlighted numerous times only to be brushed away by the powers-that-be.</p> <p><em>Mailsports </em>received a letter written by "Disappointed sports teacher" from Negri Sembilan.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68626-money-down-drain#commentsDatuk Seri Mohammad HassanHaresh DeolJPNSLawatan sambil belajarSports opinionSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 03:47:25 +0000Allen68626 at http://www.mmail.com.myMun Yee calls for consistencyhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68623-mun-yee-calls-consistency <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 11:31:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68623-mun-yee-calls-consistency"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-7_96.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="106" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> KUALA LUMPUR:</strong> After a good showing at the FINA Diving World Series in Moscow and Beijing recently, national diver Leong Mun Yee is confident that Malaysia are closing the gap on powerhouse China.</p> <p>"China are the strongest nation in diving," said Mun Yee, 26.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68623-mun-yee-calls-consistency#commentsFINA Diving World SeriesLeong Mun YeePandelela RinongVijhay VickOther SportsSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 03:41:57 +0000Allen68623 at http://www.mmail.com.myEduardo back in action for Shakhtarhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68609-eduardo-back-action-shakhtar <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 10:37:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68609-eduardo-back-action-shakhtar"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-2_132.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="200" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> BARCELONA:</strong> Shakhtar Donetsk striker Eduardo <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> should be fit to face Barcelona in their first-leg quarterfinal at Nou Camp tomorrow <strong>(2.45am)</strong>.</p> <p>Manager Mircea Lucescu decided not to risk the former Arsenal striker against Illichovets Mariupol in the league last Friday.</p> <p>Shakhtar went on to win 3-1 to keep them 12 points clear of Dynamo Kiev in second.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68609-eduardo-back-action-shakhtar#commentsbarcelonachampions leagueDarijo SrnaEduardoMircea LucescuNou CampShakhtar DonetskFootballSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 03:19:21 +0000Allen68609 at http://www.mmail.com.myAzlan enjoys army life http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68617-azlan-enjoys-army-life <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 07:48:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68617-azlan-enjoys-army-life"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-6_96.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="165" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> KUALA LUMPUR:</strong> Handling M16 and Steyr guns has left an impression on national squash player Azlan Iskandar <em><strong>(above)</strong></em>.</p> <p>"The feeling is wicked!" exclaimed Azlan.</p> <p>"I've been performing well at the shooting range. The trainers are pretty impressed with my shots as I can use both my right and left hand.</p> <p>"But more importantly, I'm happy to be serving the nation through the Armed Forces."</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68617-azlan-enjoys-army-life#commentsAzlan IskandarHaresh DeolM16Steyr gunsSquashSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 03:37:43 +0000Allen68617 at http://www.mmail.com.myWhat a stunner!http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68614-what-stunner <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Schalke silence Inter at San Siro, big time </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 07:48:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68614-what-stunner"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-5_112.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="111" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> MILAN:</strong> Schalke twice came from behind to stun champions Inter Milan 5-2 in their first-leg quarterfinal tie at San Siro this morning.</p> <p>The match began with Inter scoring one of the great Champions League goals.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68614-what-stunner#commentschampions leagueDejan StankovicDiego MilitoEduInter MilanJefferson FarfanLeonardoManuel NeuerSan SiroSchalkeFootballSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 03:31:07 +0000Allen68614 at http://www.mmail.com.myAdebayor continues to hurt Spurshttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68611-adebayor-continues-hurt-spurs <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 07:48:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68611-adebayor-continues-hurt-spurs"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-4_118.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="269" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> MADRID:</strong> Former Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> proved to be a pain yet again for Tottenham at Santiago Bernabeu this moring.</p> <p>He was on target twice for Real Madrid as they blanked 10-man Spurs 4-0 in their first-leg quarterfinal to put <em>Los Blancos</em> a step into the last four.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68611-adebayor-continues-hurt-spurs#commentschampions leagueEmmanuel AdebayorFormer Arsenal strikerJose MourinhoLos Blancosreal madridSantiago BernabeuspurstottenhamFootballSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 03:26:44 +0000Allen68611 at http://www.mmail.com.myMassa poserhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68595-massa-poser <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Ferrari ace feels it's wrong to use movable rear wing on straights at Sepang </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, April 6th, 2011 07:48:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68595-massa-poser"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-1_144.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="389" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> LONDON:</strong> Ferrari's Felipe Massa <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> believes it would be a mistake to allow the use of the movable rear wing on both straights at the Sepang circuit in the Malaysian Grand Prix this weekend.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68595-massa-poser#commentsDrag Reduction SystemDRSF1Felipe MassaferrarifiaMalaysian Grand PrixSepang circuitMotorsportsSportsWed, 06 Apr 2011 02:37:10 +0000Allen68595 at http://www.mmail.com.myFootball Super League: SILVER STREAKhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68442-football-super-league-silver-streak <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Perak won't take Perlis for granted </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Monday, April 4th, 2011 14:35:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p>PETALING JAYA: Perak expect to continue with their unbeaten run in the Super League against Perlis tomorrow.</p> <p>The Silver State, however, are third in the standings with 16 points — a point shy from leaders Kelantan and second-placed Selangor. Perak's fort have only been breached twice in eight matches.</p> <p>Perak coach Norizan Bakar said though they've been playing well, they still can't take bottom-placed Perlis for granted.</p> <p>"I like to take one match at a time. We will be prepared and will go all out to win," added Norizan.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68442-football-super-league-silver-streak#commentsSuper leagueFootballSportsMon, 04 Apr 2011 06:39:13 +0000pekwan68442 at http://www.mmail.com.myFootball Super League: SILVER STREAKhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68441-football-super-league-silver-streak <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Perak won't take Perlis for granted </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Monday, April 4th, 2011 14:35:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <p>PETALING JAYA: Perak expect to continue with their unbeaten run in the Super League against Perlis tomorrow.</p> <p>The Silver State, however, are third in the standings with 16 points — a point shy from leaders Kelantan and second-placed Selangor. Perak's fort have only been breached twice in eight matches.</p> <p>Perak coach Norizan Bakar said though they've been playing well, they still can't take bottom-placed Perlis for granted.</p> <p>"I like to take one match at a time. We will be prepared and will go all out to win," added Norizan.</p><!-- google_ad_section_start --><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68441-football-super-league-silver-streak#commentsSuper leagueFootballSportsMon, 04 Apr 2011 06:38:12 +0000pekwan68441 at http://www.mmail.com.myPremier League: D-Day for Rooneyhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68437-premier-league-dday-rooney <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> United striker to know his fate today for foul-mouthing </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Monday, April 4th, 2011 13:55:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68437-premier-league-dday-rooney"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Rooney.gif" alt="" title="" width="150" height="181" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p> LONDON: Wayne Rooney can expect to discover today whether he will face disciplinary action for his foul-mouthed hattrick celebration.</p> <p>The Manchester United striker's three goals on Saturday helped his team to a 4-2 victory at West Ham which took them seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68437-premier-league-dday-rooney#commentsPremier LeagueEPLFootballSportsMon, 04 Apr 2011 06:05:59 +0000pekwan68437 at http://www.mmail.com.myFootball Premier League: Deadly City, finallyhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68432-football-premier-league-deadly-city-finally <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Mancini's attacking mode sends Black Cats hiding </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Monday, April 4th, 2011 13:45:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68432-football-premier-league-deadly-city-finally"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Mancini.gif" alt="" title="" width="150" height="283" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p> LONDON: Defender Joleon Lescott (pic) acknowledged the quality of Manchester City's performance after the 5-0 hammering of Sunderland at City of Manchester Stadium yesterday.</p> <p>Adam Johnson, Carlos Tevez, David Silva, Patrick Vieira and Yaya Toure got the goals as Roberto Mancini's men romped to an impressive victory.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68432-football-premier-league-deadly-city-finally#commentsEnglish Priemer LeagueEPLFootballSportsMon, 04 Apr 2011 05:51:20 +0000pekwan68432 at http://www.mmail.com.myThe Malay Mail F1 contest: Grab your free ticketshttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68278-malay-mail-f1-contest-grab-your-free-tickets <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Friday, April 1st, 2011 13:53:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68278-malay-mail-f1-contest-grab-your-free-tickets"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/f1_2.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="281" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> </strong></p> <p><strong>KUALA LUMPUR:</strong> Calling all Formula 1 fans! Three tickets worth RM1,100 are up for grabs.</p> <p>All you have to do is answer the questions below and complete the slogan "Malaysians should be proud of having our own Formula 1 because…" in not more than 20 words.</p> <p>Entries are to be submitted to<em> mmsports@mmail.com.my</em> before Wednesday, April 6 at noon.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68278-malay-mail-f1-contest-grab-your-free-tickets#commentsFormula 1Free Formula 1 ticketsLocalMotorsportsSportsFri, 01 Apr 2011 05:55:41 +0000Allen68278 at http://www.mmail.com.myBerdych falls to Nadalhttp://www.mmail.com.my/content/68276-berdych-falls-nadal <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Spaniard beats Czech to set up semis date with Federer </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Friday, April 1st, 2011 13:45:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68276-berdych-falls-nadal"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-9_66.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="84" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> MIAMI:</strong> Rafael Nadal <em><strong>(above)</strong></em> battled to a 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 win over Tomas Berdych this morning to set up a semifinal clash with Roger Federer at the Miami Masters.</p> <p>The pair have not met on United States soil since Federer's win at Miami over the Spaniard five years ago, despite meeting 20 times in the years that have followed.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68276-berdych-falls-nadal#commentsMiami MastersRafael NadalRoger FedererTomas BerdychTennisSportsFri, 01 Apr 2011 05:52:35 +0000Allen68276 at http://www.mmail.com.mySweet 19http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68268-sweet-19 <div class="field field-type-text field-field-subtitle"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> It will be incredible if United can win title, says Rooney </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field-type-date field-field-date"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <span class="date-display-single">Friday, April 1st, 2011 12:52:00</span> </div> </div> </div> <!-- google_ad_section_start --><a href="/content/68268-sweet-19"><img src="/sites/default/files/imagecache/small/Untitled-7_95.jpg" alt="" title="" width="150" height="324" class=" teaser-image-img" /></a><p><strong> LONDON:</strong> Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney <em><strong>(pic)</strong></em> says it will be brilliant if the Red Devils are to win a record 19th league title as it would mean so much.</p> <p>United are on course to achieve that feat as they face relegation-threatened West Ham tomorrow in pole position.</p><!-- google_ad_section_end -->http://www.mmail.com.my/content/68268-sweet-19#comments19th league titleARSENALEPLmanchester unitedRed DevilsWayne RooneyWest HamEPLSportsFri, 01 Apr 2011 05:15:32 +0000Allen68268 at http://www.mmail.com.myFull Feed Generated by Get Full RSS, sponsored by USA Best Price.
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Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Pecatur kawakan Indonesia GM Cerdas Barus menjuarai turnamen catur internasional Telin 2011, Kamis, setelah memastikan unggul setengah angka dengan mengumpulkan 7,5 poin selama sembilan babak pertandingan yang dimulai 1 April lalu di Jakarta.
Cerdas Barus memastikan juara setelah pada pertandingan babak sembilan (terakhir) mampu menambah satu poin setelah mengalahkan pecatur rekan senegaranya IM Irwanto Sadikin.
Sedangkan empat pecatur masing-masing GM Merab Gagunashvili dari Georgia, GM Dao Thien Haivie (Vietnam), GM Eugenio Torre (Filipina) dan IM Dede Liu (Indonesia) berada di belakangnya terpaut setengah poin dengan mengumpulkan 7 poin.
Sementara itu dua pecatur pelatnas SEA Games 2011 GM Susanto Megaranto dan GMW Irene Kharisma Sukandar tidak mampu berbuat banyak setelah hanya menempati posisi ke-10 bagi Susanto dengan 6,5 poin dan Irene di posisi ke-50 dengan 4,5 poin. (A020/Z002/K004)
Sepang (ANTARA News/AFP) - Juara dunia dua kali Formula Satu Fernando Alonso mengatakan bahwa untuk berlaga di balapan seri GP Malaysia akhir pekan ini dia berharap tim Ferrari dapat memberinya paket mobil yang lebih baik dari yang diperolehnya di Australia dua minggu lalu.
Meski sempat mendapat hasil yang menjanjikan selama latihan pra-musim, namun di Melboure pembalap Spanyol itu ternyata tidak mampu mengimbangi kecepatan yang dikembangkan juara dunia Sebastian Vettel dari Tim Red Bull dan Lewis Hamilton dari Tim McLaren di Melbourne.
Meskipun demikian, Alonso masih berharap akan reaksi positif dari Ferrari dan untuk itu dia yakin akan ada suatu terobosan yang sedang dipersiapkan oleh timnya.
Di Melbourne, Alonso finis di tempat keempat sementara rekan setimnya Felipe Massa berada di tempat ketujuh.
"Kami sadar bahwa kami harus meningkatkan performa mobil, tetapi kami juga sama sadarnya bahwa sebenarnya hasil lomba kemaren itu tidaklah jelek-jelek amat," kata Alonso di situs resmi Ferrari.
"Kami saat ini sedang melakukan beberapa pemutakhiran kecil pada mobil, tetapi belum ada hasil yang sangat signifikan yang dapat dijadikan dasar untuk membuat lompatan jauh ke depan jika dilihat dari segi performa.
"Yang harus kami lakukan adalah terus berkonsentrasi pada pekerjaan dan mencoba untuk memahami bagaimana caranya untuk memaksimalkan semua potensi dari mobil balap Ferrari dan saya yakin akan banyak lagi yang bisa kami peroleh," kata Alonso.
Alonso mengakui bahwa balapan akhir minggu nanti tidak mungkin untuk diprediksi, namun dia yakin bahwa reaksi yang cepat dan tepat dalam menghadapi kondisi cuaca yang terus berubah bisa menjadi faktor yang menentukan.
"Fakta bahwa cuaca dapat berubah dengan tiba-tiba di Sepang ini membuat pekerjaan mempersiapkan antisipasi cuaca menjadi suatu tekanan tersendiri," ujar Alonso.
"Di saat matahari tengah bersinar terang sesaat kemudian datang mendung dan hujan turun dengan deras, hal-hal seperti inilah yang harus kami antisipasi," jelas Alonso.
"Hal-hal seperti itu bukan hanya menjadi masalah bagi kami pembalap, tetapi juga bagi seluruh anggota tim dan dalam beberapa keadaan kami malah harus siap dengan rencana B atau C, atau bahkan D untuk seluruh skenario balapan," ungkap Alonso.(*)
KUNINGAN- Para punggawa Laskar Siliwangi, julukan Bandung FC, diselimuti suasana yang berbeda. Selain itu dalam rangka melakoni pertandingan lanjutan Liga Primer Indonesia (LPI), kedatangan ke Kuningan dijadikan sebagai ajang refreshing. Para pemain dalam suasana latihan berlangsung santai dan penuh dengan gelak tawa dan canda.
"Tidak biasanya terjadi, mereka nampak sangat gembira dan bersemangat dalam latihan. Tentu kondisi ini bisa dipertahankan hingga pertandingan nanti," ucap Wakil Manajer Fajar Syahbana, Kamis (7/4/2011).
Yaris Riyadi cs tiba di Kuningan Kamis siang. Pada sore harinya, mereka pun langsung menjajal Stadion Mashoed Wisnusaputra yang akan digunakan meladeni Bintang Medan, Sabtu besok.
Kondisi tim sendiri lebih menyegarkan. Maklum, mereka baru saja meraih kemenangan atas Cendrawasih Papua, 2-1 akhir pekan lalu. Kondisi ini pula yang bakal menjadi modal untuk terus meraih kemenangan berikutnya. Bintang Medan sendiri merupakan lawan yang cukup berat.
"Kita terus memberikan support kepada tim, kemenangan sebelumnya kita harapkan bisa terulang lagi dan akan kami perseambahkan bagi masyarakat Kuningan. Semua pemain juga kini berada pada rasa optimisme yang tinggi dengan modal kemenangan. Tapi saya harap, semua tidak overconfidence, kita berharap normal-normal saja," beber Fajar.
Sementara itu pemain bintang Lee Hendrie belum terlihat di antara pemain lainnya. Dikatakan Fajar, Hendrie akan mulai bergabung Jumat ini dalam sesi latihan pagi. "Hendrie belum hadir di Kuningan. Mungkin besok (hari ini, red) dia akan datang," terangnya.
Sesi uji coba lapangan akan dilakukan Bandung FC pada pagi. Sedangkan tim Medan Bintang meminta jadwal sore hari untuk mencoba lapangan. (acf)
MILAN- AC Milan benar-benar serius untuk mendatangkan bintang muda Brasil, Paulo Henrique Ganso. Tak ingin kalah cepat, kubu Rossoneri dikabarkan telah mengirimkan utusannya ke Brasil.
Sebagaimana dilaporkan Corriere dello Sport, Jumat (8/4/2011), pekan ini kubu Milan akan mengirimkan direktur transfernya Ariedo Braida ke Brasil untuk melakukan negosiasi dengan kubu Santos. Diyakini, Milan tidak ingin kalah cepat dengan rival sekotanya Inter Milan untuk mendapatkan tanda tangan trequartista 21 tahun tersebut pada bursa transfer musim panas nanti.
Milan sendiri dipastikan bakal untung bila berhasil mendatangkan Ganso. Pasalnya, punggawa timnas Brasil ini telah memilik paspor Italia, jadi Ganso dipastikan tidak terhitung sebagai pemain non-uni Eropa, meski berasal dari Brasil.
Memang, untuk mendapatkan Ganso, Milan harus merogoh kocek cukup dalam. Seperti diketahui, Ganso memiliki klausul pelepasan kontrak mencapai 54 juta euro. Akan tetapi, jumlah tersebut bisa saja berkurang, menyusul keinginan Ganso hengkang dari Santos. Apalagi, saat ini Ganso juga tengah terlibat konflik dengan klubnya.
Sebenarnya, Ganso diyakini bakal merapat ke Inter Milan jika akhirnya memutuskan hengkang dari Santos. Faktor pelatih Leonardo Araujo yang selama ini telah terlibat kontak intens dengannya disebut-sebut menjadi faktor utama Ganso memilih Nerazzurri.
Namun, dengan ketidakjelasan kontrak Leo menyusul terancam gagalnya Inter meraih gelar juara di Serie A dan Liga Champions musim ini membuat Ganso berubah pikiran dan memilih bergabung dengan Milan, bersama sejumlah kompatriotnya seperti Robinho dan teman dekatnya, Thiago Silva. (acf)
AUGUSTA, Georgia (AP) - Tim Clark was 2 under at the Par 3 Tournament, significant not so much because of the score or the event, but the fact the South African played golf.
It was his first competition since he finished second at the Sony Open in Hawaii three months ago.
Clark has been coping with a severe and mysterious injury to his left elbow, which has kept him from even hitting full shots until Tuesday on the practice range at the Masters. There's still no guarantee he will play in the Masters on Thursday. He first wanted to get through the Par 3 and make up his mind.
In that respect, at least he finished. "I've started to get better the last two weeks," he said. "In the last few days, they might have found something that's causing the problem. It could be a pinched nerve in my neck that's the root of the problem. I'm hoping that's the case."
After returning from Honolulu, and when he woke up after his first night at home, his elbow was throbbing. He tried a cortisone shot a few weeks later, and it didn't get better. Clark actually flew out to Pebble Beach, but he could tell on the range he couldn't play.
He even tried blood spinning, a painful process that "hurt like crazy." It didn't help.
Clark was in good spirits before the Par 3. Two weeks ago, he felt he had no chance of playing the Masters. A week ago, he had hope. And on Wednesday, he hit full shots on nine holes.
He plans to tee it up Thursday, although his expectations are next to nil. Without having hit full shots in three months, he lacks strength in his arms. Also doubtful is defending his title in The Players Championship next month.
"We'll see how it goes," Clark said.
Only after he was done talking about his elbow did he mention the best news of all during his absence. His wife gave birth to their first child Friday, a 6-pound boy they named Jack.
HOUSTON (AP): America's Ryan Sweeting escaped six break points in the final game to upset second-seeded countryman Sam Querrey 3-6, 7-6 (5) 6-3 in the second round of the U.S. Men's Clay Court Championships on Wednesday.
There were 11 total service breaks in the match. The players broke each other in seven consecutive games, spanning from the last five games of second set through the first two games of the third.
Sweeting survived 18 of 24 break points. Querrey lost three points on his serve in the tie-breaker, including a double-fault for set point.
"I just don't feel comfortable on clay yet," Querrey said. "I need to just put a couple of weeks of practice in there and get ready for the next tournament."
Fourth-seeded John Isner of the United States downed Argentina's Horacio Zeballos 7-5, 6-3, while Teymuraz Gabashvili of Russia defeated eighth seeded Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria 7-6 (4), 6-3.
Qualifier Ivo Karlovic of Croatia boomed over 12 aces to beat Igor Kunitsyn of Russia 6-4, 6-1.
PSMS Ditawarkan Merger dengan Bintang Medan Rossi Finza Noor - detiksport
Medan - Penghentian dana APBD untuk klub mulai tahun 2012 disambut positif oleh PSMS Medan. Jalan keluar lain pun muncul ketika Bintang Medan memberikan ajakan untuk merger.
Salah satu hal yang melatari dihentikannya kucuran dana APBD adalah rekomendasi yang dikeluarkan oleh Komisi Pemberantasan Korupsi (KPK). KPK) menemukan indikasi pelanggaran dalam pengelolaan Anggaran Pendapatan dan Belanja Daerah (APBD) selama beberapa tahun yang dikucurkan pemerintah-pemerintah daerah ke klub-klub sepakbola. KPK menilai hal ini sangat berpotensi terjadi praktik korupsi.
Menimbang kondisi ini, Pemerintah Kota (Pemko) Medan menyatakan akan menghentikan alokasi anggaran APBD ke tim sepakbola PSMS melalui KONI Medan. Namun, penghentian dana APDN itu akan dilakukan setelah tercapainya kesepakatan bersama KPK dan Menteri Dalam Negeri (Mendagri), untuk menyetop APBD ke klub sepakbola melalui pemerintah daerah kabupaten/kota.
Wakil Walikota Medan, yang juga Ketua Umum PSMS Medan, Dzulmi Eldin, menegaskan dukungannya dan Pemko Medan akan memberlakukan itu menunggu keputusan resmi dari Mendagri.
"Kita akan sesuaikan dengan keputusan atau arahan dari Mendagri itu sesuai keputusan bersama yang disampaikan dengan KPK," Eldin menjelaskan dalam rilis yang diterima detikSport.
"Sekarang ini, bukan berbicara mau ke mana di bawa. Tapi ini aturan dan harus dilaksanakan. Kita memang dapat memahami bersama manajemen klub sepakbola di Indonesia atau di daerah itu seperti apa. Tapi daripada menjadi temuan, lebih baik kita stop. Kita siap menyetop bantuan APBD Pemko Medan yang setiap tahunnya diberikan ke PSMS mulai 2012 nanti, jika memang itu ditegaskan dalam peraturan atau keputusan Mendagri," lanjutnya.
Menanggapi itu, Vice President Liga Primer Indonesia (LPI) Region Sumatera dan Aceh, Avian Tumengkol, menilai bahwa langkah yang diambil pihak Pemko Medan untuk menghentikan bantuan APBD ke PSMS sudah tepat. Avian juga menuturkan, salah satu langkah berikut yang bisa diambil oleh pihak Pemko Medan atau PSMS, adalah untuk merger dengan Bintang Medan FC yang saat ini berlaga di LPI.
"Khususnya bagi PSMS Medan. Saya yakin kejayaan PSMS akan kembali bangkit dan bersuara di persepakbolaan nasional kita seperti dulu. Dan untuk mensukseskan ini, kita harus bersama-sama mencari solusi terbaik," tegas Avian.
( roz / arp )
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London - Frank Lampard mengklaim Chelsea harusnya dapat penalti saat menghadapi Manchester United. Tapi keputusan wasit yang menolak memberi penalti membuat Lampard termotivasi.
Di akhir-akhir laga Chelsea vs MU yang merupakan pertandingan pertama perempatfinal Liga Champions, terjadi pelanggaran oleh Patrice Evra kepada Ramires. Klaim penalti para pemain The Blues ditepis wasit Antonio Undiano Malenco.
"Saya tidak percaya dia (wasit) tidak memberikannya. Itu jelas. Semua orang di stadion melihatnya," klaim Lampard kesal seperti yang dikutip SkySports.
"Semua orang tahu bahwa itu adalah penalti, tetapi dia tidak memberikannya. Sesederhana itu," timpal pemain yang mencatatkan penampilan nomor 500 buat Chelsea malam itu.
Evra memang terlihat menjegal Ramires. Namun dalam tayangan ulang di televisi, tampaknya jegalan Evra dilakukan sedikit di luar kotak penalti. Namun wasit tetap menganggap tidak ada pelanggaran.
Lampard tidak mau terus-terusan larut dalam rasa kecewa. Dengan Chelsea cuma kalah 0-1, pemain 32 tahun itu yakin 'Si Biru' masih punya peluang untuk lolos dalam laga leg kedua di Old Trafford, tengah pekan depan.
"Kami tidak boleh terus-terusan memikirkan itu secara berlebihan karena itu adalah pikiran yang negatif. Kami akan menggunakannya sebagai motivasi," tekad Lampard.
"Kami tahu kami bisa menang di sana, tapi jelas, hal itu akan lebih sulit," tutupnya.
( arp / krs )
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MELBOURNE, KOMPAS.com — Fernando Alonso tetap menyimpan asa Ferrari bakal membuat kejutan meskipun mereka mengawali Formula Satu 2011 di GP Australia pada 27 Maret lalu dengan kurang bagus. Pebalap Spanyol ini optimistis, "Kuda Jingkrak" bisa menyaingi dua rival beratnya, Red Bull Racing dan McLaren.
Saya percaya, kami harus tetap konsentrasi pada pekerjaan kami sendiri dan mencoba untuk memahami bagaimana untuk mengeluarkan semua potensi mobil. Saya yakin akan ada banyak hal yang datang
-- Fernando Alonso
Pada balapan di Melbourne, Australia, dua pekan lalu, Ferrari termasuk salah satu favorit juara menyusul performanya yang ciamik selama tes pramusim. Namun, kenyataan di atas lintasan sangat berbeda karena skuad Maranello tersebut kalah bersaing dengan pebalap Red Bull, Sebastian Vettel, atau pebalap McLaren, Lewis Hamilton, dalam perburuan podium nomor satu. Alhasil, Alonso hanya finis di posisi keempat dengan waktu terpaut 30 detik dari Vettel, sang jawara.
Akhir pekan ini Alonso dan Ferrari tampil lagi di Sirkuit Sepang, Malaysia. Meskipun tak ada perubahan besar yang dilakukan, mantan juara dunia 2005 dan 2006 tersebut merasa Ferrari punya potensi untuk meraih hasil yang lebih bagus lagi.
"Kami tahu, kami harus meningkatkan level performa, tetapi pada akhirnya kami sama-sama menyadari bahwa hasil balapan bukanlah sebuah bencana," ujar Alonso melalui situs resmi Ferrari.
"Kami akan memiliki beberapa update kecil di mobil, tetapi tidak sangat signifikan, atau hal yang mungkin Anda bisa katakan menjadi kunci untuk melompat saat tampil."
"Saya percaya, kami harus tetap konsentrasi pada pekerjaan kami sendiri dan mencoba untuk memahami bagaimana untuk mengeluarkan semua potensi mobil. Saya yakin akan ada banyak hal yang datang."
Alonso juga mengakui, cuaca yang sulit diprediksi di GP Sepang pada akhir pekan ini harus menjadi perhatian tim. Karena itu, tim harus memiliki beberapa rencana sehingga bisa menghadapi berbagai kemungkinan skenario yang berhubungan dengan cuaca.
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com — Ganda putri Indonesia, Anneke Feinya Agustin/Nitya Krishinda Maheswari, langsung tersingkir pada laga perdana mereka di arena bulu tangkis Australia Terbuka Grand Prix Gold 2011, Kamis (7/4/2011). Melawan pemain Hongkong, Poon Lok Yan/Tse Ying Suet, pasangan pelatnas Cipayung tersebut menyerah 17-21, 21-9, 15-21. Dengan demikian, tak ada lagi wakil Indonesia di sektor ganda putri dalam turnamen berhadiah 120.000 dollar AS tersebut.
Anneke/Nitya langsung bermain pada babak kedua setelah mendapat tiket gratis. Pasalnya, pada babak pertama yang berlangsung kemarin, mereka tidak perlu mengeluarkan keringat karena lawannya yang berasal dari Brasil, Yasmin Cury/Fabiana Silva, tidak turun bermain alias walk out (WO). Sayang, perjalanan mereka menuju perempat final harus terhenti.
Kegagalan di sektor ganda putri ini membuat Indonesia tinggal berharap kepada empat wakil, yang sudah lolos ke perempat final. Keempat wakil tersebut adalah Tommy Sugiarto di sektor tunggal putra, Adriyanti Firdasari (tunggal putri), Alvent Yulianto Chandra/Hendra Aprida Gunawan (ganda putra), dan Nova Widianto/Vita Marissa (ganda campuran). Besok, mereka akan memperebutkan tiket ke semifinal.
A Team Lotus crew member putting together their race car in the pits at the Sepang Racing Circuit yesterday. — Picture by OSMAN ADNAN
AS expectations of an improved performance continue to build up, Team Lotus drivers Heikki Kovalainen and Jarno Trulli remain confident they will have a good outing at the Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix this weekend.
Team Lotus, who received new engines from Renault and gearbox from Red Bull for the new season, are expected to push for the middle of the field this year but were hampered with power steering and radiator problems at the season opener in Melbourne which saw Kovalainen not finishing the race and Trulli managing 13th place out of 14 finishers.
Kovalainen said he was looking forward to competing at Sepang and did not feel pressured to perform well at the team's home race.
"This is a big race for us being on home soil and we are looking to get everything we can out of the car which we were not able to do in Melbourne," said Kovalainen.
"I don't feel any pressure to race here due to the fact that we are well prepared, focused and set-up for a good weekend. The problems which we faced in Melbourne have been fixed and should not recur which will hopefully allow us to do well.
"The huge fan base we have here is also something we take positively. Rather than think of it as more pressure, it actually feels good to know we have their support," added Kovalainen.
Both drivers said they were aware of the possibility of heavy rain during the weekend and were prepared to face the worst.
"Sepang is a very challenging track technically and also in terms of weather. It is very hot and humid here and we both know from past races that when it rains it will be very heavy," said Trulli.
2011/04/07 Zainuddin Muhammad nstsport@nstp.com.my
T-Team's Norfarhan Mohamed (left) is challenged by Kelantan's Nurul Azwan Roya in their Super League match in Kuala Terengganu on Tuesday. T-Team won 4-3. — Picture by Rozainah Zakaria
FIRST Sabah, then Kelantan and now T-Team will be aiming to bring down current league leaders Selangor when they travel to Shah Alam Stadium on Saturday.
"We have to strike while the iron is hot," said coach Yunus Alif after watching his side edge Kelantan 4-3 at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium in Kuala Terengganu on Tuesday.
Delighted with the hard-fought victory and happy with the vote of confidence the management has given to keep him as head coach, Yunus said the game against Selangor could not have come at a better time.
"The morale in our camp is at an all time high after the two consecutive wins and for the first time in a long time, all of our key players are fit to play," said Yunus.
"Dead-ball specialist Zairo Anuar Zailani, who was side-lined for more than a month due to a knee injury, came back brilliantly to score with free kicks against Sabah and Kelantan."
The midfielder's return gives Yunus an option of re-deploying captain Rosdi Talib to the left-back position, allowing Norfazly Alias to play his preferred central defensive role.
"Goalkeeper Syamsuri Mustaffa is back to his best fitness-wise and striker Haris Safwan Mohd Kamal has also come back strong, scoring twice in two games," said Yunus.
"It is certainly good to know our strikers are scoring again. I am happy for Norfarhan who scored his first goal of the season against Sabah and another in the Kelantan match."
Meanwhile, manager Rozi Mamat confirmed that team members will receive instant bonuses for winning matches.
"We paid the players RM500 each for beating Sabah and they will get RM1,000 each for the spirited win against Kelantan," said Rozi
"Chances are the amount will be even bigger should they beat Selangor on Saturday."
JAKARTA – Legenda tinju dunia Mike Tyson dipastikan batal hadir menyaksikan pertarungan antara Chris John versus Daud Jordan. Hal tersebut dikonfirmasi langsung oleh pihak promotor Mahkota Promotion yang diwakili oleh Raja Sapta Oktohari.
Sebelumnya sempat berhembus kabar kalau Tyson akan diundang sebagai bintang tamu pada duel bertajuk 'The Moment of Truth' yang rencananya dilangsungkan pada 17 April di Hall D Arena Pekan Raya Jakarta. Namun setelah melakukan pembicaraan serta lobi-lobi, sungguh disayangkan petinju berjuluk 'Si Leher Beton' akhirnya dipastikan batal hadir.
Berbicara dalam dalam acara konfrensi pers di kantor Pertina, Kamis (7/4/2011) pria yang akrab disapa Okto menjelaskan bahwa Tyson gagal dihadirkan karena dia tengah sibuk terlibat dalam pembuatan film seri di Amerika Serikat.
"Tyson batal datang. Dia mendapatkan rejeki bermain dalam sebuah film seri kejar tayang di AS berjudul Pidgeon," ungkap Okto.
Mengenai pertarungan Chris John dengan Cino sendiri, Okto mengatakan bahwa saat ini kedua kubu sudah sama-sama siap. Mereka sudah mengurus segala administrasi dan akan melakukan timbang badan pada 16 April.
"Chris John baru datang besok atau lusa dari Australia sedangkan Cino sudah di berada di Jakarta sekarang. Keduanya akan melangsungkan timbang badan pada 16 April. Mengenai mandatory fight, mungkin akan dibicarakan usai duel ini," cetus Okto lagi.
Informasi lain yang disampaikan oleh Okto ialah tentang pemesanan tiket yang sudah bisa diakses melalui rajakarcis.com. Sementara untuk harga sendiri disebutkan senilai Rp 250 ribu per lembar.(msy)
SEPANG – Mark Webber gagal unjuk gigi pada seri perdana gelaran Formula One di Australia, Melbourne, sirkuit Albert Park lalu. Pembalap Red Bull ini menyimpan asa dirinya tidak akan mengulang kegagalan di Australia dan akan membayarnya di Maaysia, Sepang.
Saat tampil di Albert Park, Webber tidak balapan seperti biasanya dan tercecer di posisi lima. Pembalap tuan rumah ini mengaku ada beberapa masalah yang mempengaruhi kinerja mobil, ternasuk problem di sasis.
Webber sendiri enggan menjelaskan secara spesifik apa yang terjadi dengan mobilnya di Melbourne lalu. Namun, Webber bertekad membayarnya dengan tampil maksimal pada GP Malaysia, akhir pekan ini.
"Ada beberapa masalah yang kami alami dan tidak membantu situasi kami menjadi lebih baik. Saya sudah tidak ingin membicarakan Melbourne dan saatnya kita bicara tentang GP Malaysia," jelas Webber seperti dilansir autosport, Kamis (7/4/2011).
Webber sangat yakin masalah yang dialaminya pada seri perdana lalu sudah selesai. Kini, tuntutan aerodinamis dari sirkuit Sepang akan cenderung menguji kekuatan dari sasis Red Bull Racing RB7.
"Kami melakukannya dengan baik di Sepang tahun lalu. Ada masalah dengan suhu panas pada sirkuit nanti. Ini akan berpengaruh pada kondisi ban, tapi kami belum tahu bagaimana balapan nanti." Lanjut Webber.
Webber menambahkan bahwa Red Bull Racing juga akan menggunakan sistem KERS di Malaysia. Pasalnya, karakter Sepang yang lurus dan panjang, akan menyulitkan Webber dan Vettel bila tidak dapat menggunakan meningkatkan kecepatan mobil. (zwr) Full Feed Generated by Get Full RSS, sponsored by USA Best Price.
GP Malaysia babitkan banyak syarikat tempatan: Najib
KIBARAN Jalur Gemilang dan sukan Formula Satu (F1) kini semakin sebati apabila tiga pasukan - Mercedes GP PETRONAS, Lotus Renault GP dan Team Lotus - bakal menjadikan Grand Prix Malaysia 2011 kali ini seperti beraksi di halaman sendiri.
"F1 sentiasa menjadi acara istimewa buat Malaysia tapi kali ini ia lebih istimewa lagi," kata Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Razak. "Tahun ini bahkan lebih istimewa dengan kehadiran beberapa pasukan yang mempunyai kaitan dengan syarikat-syarikat tempatan. "Belum pernah acara ini disertai begitu banyak syarikat tempatan yang menyaksikan GP Malaysia di litar Sepang menjadi perlumbaan laman sendiri buat beberapa pasukan."
"Kesungguhan Malaysia dan imej cemerlangnya akan terpancar tahun ini di setiap pusingan perlumbaan di seluruh dunia dengan penyertaan Mercedes GP PETRONAS, Lotus Renault Racing yang disokong Proton, 1Malaysia Team Lotus dan Virgin Formula 1 Racing yang menampilkan Q-Net sebagai rakan kongsi penting musim ini," kata Najib.
Najib menambah, sebelum litar Sepang mula digunakan pada 1999, Malaysia sudah lama menjadikan sukan F1 sebagai pentas mempromosi jenama tempatan apabila Tourism Malaysia menumpang populariti pasukan Stewart Grand Prix pada 1997.
PEMAIN Real menyambut kemenangan atasi Spurs 4-0, awal
LONDON: Juara sembilan kali, Real Madrid dan Schalke membuat langkahan besar mahu layak ke separuh akhir Liga Juara-Juara Eropah, musim ini selepas masing-masing merakamkan kemenangan besar dalam saingan suku akhir pertama, awal pagi semalam.
Bekas penyerang Arsenal, Emmanuel Adebayor menyumbat dua gol membantu Real membelasah wakil Inggeris, Tottenham Hotspur manakala bekas legenda Real, Raul me-nyumbat gol membantu Schalke membuat kejutan menewaskan juara bertahan, Inter Milan 5-2 di San Siro.
Jose Mourinho jelas kembali memberi sentuhan pada detik penting dan kemenangan di San Bernabeu harus membuat pengendali bergelar 'Yang Istimewa' itu menyalakan impian memburu mahkota kejuaraan Liga Juara-Juara Eropah buat kali ketiga. Spurs pimpinan Harry Rednapp juga dipalit duka tambahan apabila ayam tambatan pasukan, Peter Crouch dilayangkan kad merah selepas beraksi 15 minit dan Mourinho beranggapan peluang lawan untuk bangkit dianggap sudah tertutup.
Selain dua gol Adebayor yang dipinjamkan dari Manchester City, pemain sayap, Angel Di Maria dan Cristiano Ronaldo masing-masing merembat satu untuk mencipta sorakan gemuruh di gelanggang.- Agensi.
KANTUNG Persatuan Bola Sepak Malaysia (FAM) rupa-rupanya sudah lama berisi apabila duit penajaan jutaan ringgit daripada Astro Media sudah diterima badan induk bola sepak tanah air itu seperti yang dijanjikan.
Namun jika melihat kepada kelancaran perjanjian penajaan Astro Media yang membabitkan jumlah RM220 juta bagi tempoh empat tahun itu sepatutnya kelewatan pengagihan geran tahunan kepada ahli gabungannya yang bersaing dalam Liga Malaysia tahun ini tidak sepatutnya berlaku.
Timbalan Presidennya, Tan Sri Annuar Musa (gambar) yang juga pengerusi Liga Super Malaysia (MSL) berkata, jawatankuasanya sudah menyerahkan kertas cadangan mengenai jumlah geran tahunan baru itu kepada Jawatankuasa Pengurusan dan Kewangan untuk mendapat kelulusan namun setakat ini belum mendapat sebarang kata putus.
"Duit penajaan sudah diserahkan kepada FAM dan MSL sudah membuat perakuan mengenai jumlah geran baru itu kepada Jawatankuasa Pengurusan dan Kewangan, terpulang kepada jawatankuasa itu untuk membuat keputusan sewajarnya.
"Memang perkara ini sudah agak lama dan geran ini sepatutnya kalau boleh diberikan pada awal musim dan bagi pihak jawatankuasa MSL yang menguruskan wang penajaan ini sudah melaksanakan tugas yang sepatutnya," katanya yang dihubungi Arena Metro semalam.
Beliau berkata demikian sebagai mengulas laporan Arena Metro semalam mengenai rasa tidak puas hati pengurusan pasukan Liga Super dan Liga Perdana berikutan kelewatan FAM menyerahkan geran tahunan sedangkan saingan pusingan pertama liga musim ini hampir berakhir.
Ketiadaan geran tahunan itu menyebabkan pasukan terbabit mengalami masalah kewangan dalam menguruskan perbelanjaan pasukan serta program pembangunan peringkat akar umbi yang sedang dan mahu dilaksanakan.
Dan Annuar sendiri mengakui menyedari masalah itu menerusi rungutan yang disuarakan ahli gabungan FAM sebelum ini.
"Memang ada persatuan negeri membuat rayuan mengenai geran tahunan ini, mereka ada menghubungi saya. Saya harap perkara ini dapat diselesaikan," katanya yang menjadi orang penting dalam menarik penajaan baru untuk FAM.
Sebelum ini, FAM memperuntukkan geran tahunan berjumlah antara RM100,000 hingga RM300,000 untuk pasukan yang bertanding dalam Liga Super dan Liga Perdana. Separuh daripada jumlah itu diberikan sebelum saingan liga bermula manakala bakinya pada pertengahan liga.
Dengan jumlah penajaan merangkumi hak penyiaran bernilai RM30 juta setiap tahun mulai 2011 dan tambahan RM100 juta bagi kegiatan promosi oleh stesen satelit berbayar, Astro bersama FAM, sepatutnya tidak menjadi masalah untuk badan induk itu menyalurkan geran tahunan seperti yang dilakukan sebelum ini.
Jumlah penajaan itu lebih besar berbanding apa yang diterima FAM daripada Telekom Malaysia yang dilaporkan berjumlah RM8.5 juta setahun sejak 2002.
Manakala Dunhill yang menjadi penaja utama bermula pada 1989 memberikan kira-kira RM33 juta untuk badan induk bola sepak negara itu.
TEKANAN kian dirasakan Ketua Jurulatih Negeri Sembilan, Mohd Azraai Khor Abdullah, selepas impiannya untuk melihat skuad kendaliannya itu mencatat kemenangan pertama sebaik mula mengambilalih tugas daripada Wan Jamak Wan Hassan, 22 Mac lalu, tidak kesampaian apabila tumpas kepada Kuala Lumpur, 0-1, dalam saingan Liga Super, di Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman Paroi, malam kelmarin.
Malah ia adalah kekalahan kedua Negeri Sembilan kepada pasukan Lembah Klang itu selepas diaibkan pada saingan Piala FA di gelanggang sama pertengahan bulan lalu, yang sekali gus menyaksikan Negeri Sembilan gagal mempertahankan trofi kejuaraan kalah mati itu.
Walaupun Negeri Sembilan dapat menurunkan kesebelasan terbaik termasuk gandingan penyerang kebangsaan dan berpengalaman, Ahmad Fakhri Saarani dan Hairuddin Omar yang menerajui barisan depan, namun jentera pasukan dikemudi pemain tengah berpengalaman, Mohd Shukor Adan, dilihat serba tidak menjadi.
Malah tiada percubaan berbahaya daripada barisan depan skuad Hoben Jang Hoben untuk menguji benteng Kuala Lumpur, sebaliknya banyak gerakan dilakukan tuan rumah berjaya dipatahkan benteng pasukan pelawat. Azraai ketika ditemui sebaik tamat perlawanan mengakui kecewa dengan keputusan perlawanan itu ketika dia amat mengharapkan anak buahnya bangkit mencatat kemenangan selepas sekadar seri dengan Terengganu, Selasa lalu.
"Pemain sepatutnya berupaya untuk bangkit dengan persembahan lebih bertenaga dan mencatat kemenangan tetapi sebaliknya apabila persembahan yang mereka pamerkan serba tidak menjadi. Cubaan kita menurunkan beberapa pemain muda antaranya Ahmad Aminuddin Shaharuddin bagi membantu di posisi pertahanan juga tidak berkesan.
"Pemain nyata mensia-siakan peluang dan kelebihan beraksi di halaman sendiri apabila pelawat pulang ceria selepas meraih tiga mata. Hakikatnya kita tidak punya banyak masa untuk memperbaiki keadaan kecuali setiap pemain berusaha memberikan persembahan cemerlang pada perlawanan berikutnya dan memastikan pasukan meraih keputusan memuaskan," katanya.
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID,JAKARTA - Laga El Clasico antara Real Madrid lawan Barcelona selalu menjadi magnet yang mampu menyedot animo penikmat sepak bola.
Fans kini mesti bersiap karena laga El Clasico kemungkinan akan tersaji sebanyak empat kali dalam 18 hari. Dengan kata lain, laga Real Madrid lawan Barcelona akan tersaji setiap empat hari sekali.
Kemungkinan tersebut tidak terlepas dari hasil fantastis dua raksasa Spanyol itu di leg pertama babak perempat final Liga Champions. Real Madris menghantam Tottenham Hotspur 4-0, Barcelona menghajar Shakhtar Donetsk 5-1.
Keduanya pun berpeluang bertemu di babak semifinal Liga Champions. Itu berarti akan ada dua laga El Clasico pada 26/27 April dan 3/4 Mei.
Dua laga El Clasico lainnya terjadi di ranah lain. Pada 16 April, Real Madrid akan menjamu Barcelona di kancah La Liga Spanyol. Barcelona sementara masih memimpin klasemen dengan 81 poin, Real Madrid menempel di posisi kedua dengan 73 poin.
Berselang empat hari kemudian, dua raksasa Spanyol itu kembali bertemu di lapangan. Keduanya kali ini bertarung di partai final CopadelRey.
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID,MADRID - AtleticoMadridyangmenawarkanuji cobauntukanak-anak perempuanPresiden Amerika Serikat,BarackObama.
SashadanMaliaadalahpenggemarberat AtleticoMadrid. Keduanya mulai jatuh cinta setelahtahun lalu menerima jersey danpaketmerchandisedariraksasaMadridtersebut.
Dampak hadiah tersebut sungguh luar biasa. Presidensepak bolaperempuan Atletico Madrid,LolaRomero, menerima ucapan terima kasih dari orangtua Sasha dan Malia yang tak lain adalah PresidenObamadanMichelleObama.
Lola kemudian menuliskembalikeObamamelaluiGedung Putih. Lola mengundangSashadanMaliauntukberlatihdenganskuadsepak bola perempuanAtleticoMadrid ketika nanti berkunjung keMadrid.
pelumba Mercedes, Michael Schumacher (kanan) diserbu ketika sesi bertemu peminat di Suria KLCC semalam pada program khas yang diadakan sempena perlumbaan Formula Satu GP Malaysia 2011 di Sepang, hujung minggu ini.
SEPANG - Prinsipal Red Bull, Christian Horner melaungkan amaran kepada pasukannya supaya bersiap sedia berdepan kebangkitan pasukan utama seperti Ferrari dan McLaren pada perlumbaan kedua Formula Satu (F1) 2011 di Grand Prix Malaysia, hujung minggu ini.
Pemandu Red Bull yang juga penyandang juara dunia, Sebastian Vettel menjuarai perlumbaan pembuka tirai di Grand Prix Australia, dua minggu lalu menerusi persembahan meyakinkan, meninggalkan pencabar lain dengan jarak yang selesa.
Bagaimanapun Horner percaya, kemenangan pemandu Jerman itu bukan petunjuk kepada apa yang bakal berlaku pada masa akan datang, kerana beliau yakin Ferrari yang membariskan juara dunia dua kali, Fernando Alonso pasti akan mencapai prestasi terbaik, begitu juga McLaren, yang memiliki dua bekas juara dunia, Jenson Button dan Lewis Hamilton.
"Sesiapa yang memikirkan sebaliknya, pasti melakukan kesilapan.
"Semua mereka yang saya sebutkan ini adalah orang yang tidak suka berada di belakang. Mereka bekerja sekeras mungkin untuk kembali kompetitif. Kami berada dalam perlumbaan yang sangat sukar dan mencabar,'' kata Horner.
Red Bull memenangi kedua-dua kejuaraan - pemandu dan pengeluar musim lalu.
Malah, mereka membuka kempen 2011 dengan bergaya apabila Vettel menawan Litar Albert Park, pada ketika rakan sepasukannya, Mark Webber dari Australia menghuni tangga kelima.
"Mark tidak gembira dengan keputusan yang dicatat di Australia tetapi kami sudah mengenai pasti beberapa bahagian penting di keretanya yang kami jangkakan mampu kembali melonjakkannya ke depan,'' ujar Horner lagi.
Hamilton juga percaya, dia mempunyai peluang untuk merangkul satu lagi kejuaraan dunia tahun ini selepas didorong oleh prestasi baik jentera McLaren di Australia, di mana dia tampil bersama kereta yang sudah diubah suai di ekzos, lantai dan sayap belakang ketika menduduki tangga kedua. - AFP
Heikki Kovalainen (kiri) dan Jarno Trulli menandatangani autograf pada sesi bertemu peminat di Tune Hotel Sepang semalam. - UTUSAN/ Izham Jaafar
SEPANG - Pelumba Team Lotus, Heikki Kovalainen lebih gemar melihat kemunculan Sistem Pemulihan Tenaga Kinetik (KERS) dalam persaingan Kejuaraan Dunia Grand Prix secara saksama dengan menganggap ada kelebihan dan kekurangannya pada mana-mana kereta Formula Satu (F1).
"Kelebihannya mungkin cuma sedikit tetapi ia terserah kepada bagaimana anda menggunakannya dalam keadaan tertentu kerana jika tidak, ia mampu bertukar kepada menjadikan kekurangan kepada jentera F1 dan pasukan anda.
"Saya tidak menganggapnya satu isu besar bagi pasukan kami. Ada atau tidak KERS, masih sama dan kami mampu bertumpu kepada ciri lain untuk menyerlah di litar," katanya selepas sesi menandatangani autograf dengan peminat yang turut disertai rakan sepasukan, Jarno Trulli di Hotel Tune di sini, semalam.
KERS memulihkan tenaga kinetik yang terdapat dalam bahang sisa yang dihasilkan oleh proses membrek kereta dan ia menyimpan tenaga lalu mengubahnya kepada kuasa yang mampu ditampilkan semula dalam menambah pecutan.
Salah satu ciri lain menurut Kovalainen, warga Finland yang mampu membantu Team Lotus, Ahad ini ialah mereka ibarat 'berlumba di gelanggang sendiri' (disokong dan ditaja syarikat Malaysia) dan bakal mendapat sokongan padu khususnya penonton tempatan.
"Kami teruja kerana merasai sokongan mereka sejak sesi bertemu peminat di pelbagai tempat. Tiada tekanan buat kami dalam memenuhi hasrat mereka untuk melihat kami berjaya kerana kami sudah bersedia dan mengambilnya secara positif serta istimewa," katanya.
Bagi Trulli pula, dia agak khuatir dengan keadaan cuaca di Litar F1 Sepang pada hujung minggu ini yang boleh berubah hujan pada sebelah petang sekali gus mengingatkannya kepada peristiwa perlumbaan Grand Prix Malaysia diberhentikan dua tahun lalu.
"Kami tahu cuaca mungkin hujan pada hujung minggu, tidak kira Sabtu atau Ahad. Kami sudah berpengalaman menghadapinya dan berharap dapat mengharunginya lagi asalkan peristiwa perlumbaan diberhentikan dan tidak disambung balik dua tahun lalu, tidak berulang kali ini," katanya.
Jelas Trulli dari Itali, sasaran mereka di Sepang ialah cuba meraih mata dengan memanfaatkan kelebihan 'berlumba di gelanggang sendiri' demi menebus kehampaan Team Lotus yang berkesudahan tanpa sebarang mata pada pusingan pertama F1 musim ini di Litar Albert Park, Melbourne.
SEPANG, April 8 — Formula One's introduction of adjustable rear wings was intended to make overtaking easier and drivers agree this weekend's Malaysia Grand Prix will be the perfect venue to test its effectiveness.
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