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      in Motorsport

      F1 Bahrain Grand Prix LIVE REACTION: Leclerc WINS dramatic opener as Hamilton snatches podium and Verstappen RETIRES

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      CHARLES LECLERC has kicked off the F1 season with victory in a dramatic Bahrain Grand Prix with a Ferrari one-two.Carlos Sainz finished second as Lewis Hamilton snatched a late podium finish after Sergio Perez spun out.
      While world champ Max Verstappen was forced to RETIRE in the closing stages of the race after challenging for top spot for most of it.

      TV channel: Sky Sports F1
      Live stream: Now TV
      Sunday, March 20: Bahrain Grand Prix (3pm)

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      Stay up to date with all the latest from the latest from the Bahrain Grand Prix in our live blog…
      ‘A day for Ferrari celebration’
      Carlos Sainz was also delighted after finishing second behind Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc in Bahrain.
      He said: “This is definitely a day to celebrate for the entire team. Starting the season with a 1-2 is the perfect reward for the tireless work they have done over the last two years and congrats to Charles on a solid win.
      “We also want to share our joy with all our tifosi around the world because we always felt their support even when we were not fighting at the top.
      “For me, I’m very happy with the result but I’m not particularly happy with my race. It was probably one of the hardest ones since I joined Ferrari. We’ll keep pushing next week in Saudi. Forza Ferrari!”
      Christian Horner dismisses Verstappen claim
      Max Verstappen believes Red Bull could have done a “better job” with their Bahrain Grand Prix strategy, but Christian Horner says the team just lacked pace.
      Horner said: “The problem is it’s always a balance – what you take out the tyre early in the stint, you pay for later in the stint.
      “I think possibly we underestimated the undercut. But I think Ferrari had the pace today that, had we got that track position, they would have made the overtake. So we just didn’t quite have their pace today.”
      Hamilton buzzing with Bahrain finish
      Lewis Hamilton declared there “was no better feeling” after his shock third-placed finish in the Bahrain Grand Prix.
      The seven-time world champion relished the top-three finish and said: “There is no better feeling when you come together and have a result like this. Every point can make a difference. I have lost world titles by one point.
      “We would not have expected [to get a podium. I woke up this morning hoping, super, super hoping that we would have a chance to fight, that we would have a car that’s better than we think. But we did struggle in the race. But George did a great job to get us third and fourth [which] I think is pretty remarkable given the problems that we have.
      “The thing is with our car, we have a car that’s bouncing a lot everywhere. It’s not just in a straight line. We have very poor rear end through all the low-speed corners and all the medium-speed corners.
      “The only place that is generally quite good is, relatively, in the high [speed corners] and then we are very slow in the straight line. So, I don’t know if it’s drag or if it’s power, we haven’t figured that out yet.”
      Fuel problem for Red Bull
      Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Mako has revealed that the same issue led to the two Red Bull cars of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez retiring in the closing stages of the Bahrain Grand Prix.
      As revealed by Tobi Gruner on Twitter after Marko had spoken to Sky Sports Germany, both Bulls had the same problem.
      He tweeted: “Helmut Marko confirmed that both Red Bull cars had the same problem with not getting enough fuel to the engine.
      “Verstappen also suffered from a power steering issue that might have been caused by the jack during a pit stop.”
      ‘Hard racing’ for winner Leclerc
      Charles Leclerc has explained how he stayed ahead of Max Verstappen as the pair exchanged first place position several times during the race.
      He said: “It was on the limit, hard racing but we will always gave each other space which was nice.
      “Following him into Turn 2 was a bit more predictable than what I expected or what I had last year so this was good but it was always very close.
      “I would always try to brake very early into Turn 1 to get the DRS for Turn 4 and it worked out three times in a row so then I could keep my lead.
      “It was also very tricky because I was struggling quite a lot with my energy and had to manage that too but then after the third lap [of overtaking] I was in a better window with it and could push again to have a bit of margin to manage my race.”
      More Verstappen audio
      Lap 46:Lambiase: “Max, is the [steering] wheel heavy in both directions, so both left hand and right hand down?”
      Verstappen: “Everywhere, everywhere! It’s not even smooth. Like I have to *censored by F1* even on the straight”
      Lap 52As the Safety Car returned to the pits and the race resumed, it was quickly apparent Verstappen was not going to be able to mount a late challenge on Leclerc’s lead.
      The delayed radio messages continued to be broadcast.
      Verstappen: “Mate, what’s going on with the battery?”
      Lambiase: “Battery fine”.
      Verstappen: “No, it’s not! What the f— is this?”
      Max Verstappen race audio released
      Audio of Max Verstappen’s angry mid-race outbursts have been released after the Red Bull star was forced to retire in Bahrain.
      Lap 32Verstappen: “OK this is now two times that I take it easy on the out-lap, that I could have been in front.
      “I am never, ever doing it again!”
      Lap 43Verstappen: “Mate, my steering wheel is suddenly very heavy…”
      Lap 44Verstappen: “I almost can’t steer.”
      Lambiase: “Let me know if we need to box, Max,”
      Verstappen: “No, just f—— tell me what’s wrong and I’ll try to handle it”
      Leclerc hails “perfect” Ferrari start
      Charles Leclerc was delighted with his team’s performance throughout the weekend in Bahrain.
      He said: “It feels amazing, obviously after yesterday it already felt great, but we had to finish the business today and we did a one-two – so it’s the perfect start to the season.
      “And I’m incredibly happy after the last two years, which have been very difficult for the team, for myself, for Carlos last year. We had to work extremely hard and… to finally prove all the work we did in the last two years is paying off felt amazing.
      “So for now it’s started in the best way possible – pole position, victory, fastest lap, a one-two today with Carlos – we couldn’t hope for better.”
      Perez explains reason for retirement
      Sergio Perez has explained the reason why he spun out in the final lap of the Bahrain Grand Prix, which forced his retirement from the race.
      He said: “I lost the engine.
      “It locked the wheels completely and there’s nothing I could do. It looks like a very similar problem to what Max had.
      “I think we were in the fight with Ferrari…in general there are a lot of positives to take but it’s hard to digest.
      “We had the podium in our pocket but I started to some power and unfortunately I ended up with that issue.”
      Lewis Hamilton expects car upgrades
      Lewis Hamilton was pleased to pick up some points following an uncertain weekend in Bahrain.
      Hamilton said to Sky Sports: “This is really the best result we could’ve got, of course it was unfortunate for the other drivers but we did the best we could and got the points.”
      He also hinted that he is expecting some upgrades for the car: “I’m hoping. I know the guys are working hard at the factory.
      “It’s not going to be a quick turnaround but we’ll keep our head down and keep working – there’s a long way to go.”
      Verstappen on Bahrain GP disappointment
      Max Verstappen has given his take on the race after relinquishing his second place late on due to an engine failure. He failed to finish.
      The reigning world champion said: “We don’t fully know or understand why it happen. It happened after the tyres came on and I drove off.
      “It wasn’t that the steering wheel just got heavy, It was almost impossible to steer. The faster I was going, there was like a second delay. Every time I was turning right, it took a while before something was happening.”
      “That’s why my restart was very bad because I wanted to go on throttle but I couldn’t open my wheel because it was stuck. It was very hard out there, a lot of different issues we had to deal with and this is of course what you don’t what to have on the first race weekend.”
      “The pace wasn’t amazing. Just a lot of things to analyse to be honest and of course you can say problems can happen but at this level it shouldn’t happen.”
      “I didn’t really push on my out lap. I could have been ahead twice.”
      Horner on Red Bull nightmare
      Christian Horner has given his honest assessment of the race after both Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez retired in the final stages.
      He said: “It was a brutal race for us. It looks a similar issue on both cars, we don’t know exactly what it is yet but we have to understand what has caused it.
      “Of course, he [Max Verstappen] was disappointed when looking at a comfortable second place, but I think Ferrari had a quicker car today so congratulations to them for a one-two finish. Finishing with no points is tough for us, but it is a long season.
      “We have got to get on top of the car’s issues quickly. On the whole it was gutting not to get that podium today but we know we have got a good car, we just need to get on top of these reliability issues.
      “The race between Max and Charles [Leclerc] was gripping. If we are going to have a season of that it is going to be quite some season.
      “So the negative is zero points, but the positive is we know we have a great car.”
      Pit stops galore
      There were 58 pit stops in the race today. In 57 laps!
      It was a chaotic, frantic, dramatic end but Charles Leclerc avoided it all as he took the first race of the season with a superb drive.
      Russell reacts to fourth place
      Briton George Russell has reacted to his fourth place finish as he begins life as a full-time Mercedes driver.
      He told Sky Sports: “We definitely thought we would be able to carve our way into the field, so I am pretty pleased. We made a good start but we know our limitations.
      “It was a difficult weekend with a great result, but we know we have a lot of work to do.
      “I don’t know if we will find the silver bullet soon. While we will find it, it will be a few races before we unlock the true pace of the car.”
      Race standings after Bahrain GP
      So, one race in and here is how the drivers’ championship looks.

      Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – 26pts
      Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) – 18pts
      Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) – 15pts
      George Russell (Mercedes) – 12pts
      Kevin Magnussen (Haas) – 10pts
      Valtteri Bottas (Alfa Romeo) – 8pts
      Esteban Ocon (Alpine) – 6pts
      Yuki Tsunoda (Alpha Tauri) – 4pts
      Fernando Alonso (Alpine) – 2pts
      Zhou Guanyu (Alfa Romeo) – 1pt

      Driver of the day
      The official Formula 1 driver of the day goes to… Charles Leclerc! Would be a bit mean if he’d have missed out.
      Honourable mentions to Haas’ Kevin Magnussen and Alfa Romeo’s Valtteri Bottas who finished fifth and sixth respectively.

      More from Sainz
      Sainz continued: “At the restart I had a strong chance because I had a clean restart behind Charles and Max. Max defended well to be fair.
      “Suddenly I saw flashing red lights at the back of Max’s car and I thought ‘OK now’s my chance’ and I went for it. He was unfortunate, he was driving well enough to get for P2 but I had a good run on him.
      “It is what it is and it’s good for Ferrari.”
      Second place Sainz reacts
      Carlos Sainz has reacted after securing second place behind Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc.
      He said: “Well first congrats Charles and Ferrari. Ferrari are properly back with a 1-2, where the team should be. The hard work is paying off and we are there.
      “For me it’s been a very tricky weekend I’m not going to lie. I didn’t have the pace today but I managed to hold it and bring the 1-2 for the team.
      “I have some homework to do over the next few days and I’m sure I’ll come back stronger.”
      More from Hamilton
      Third place Hamilton continued: “It was such a difficult race. We did the best we could and are grateful for these points.
      “The guys are working hard back at the factory. It is not going to be a quick turnaround.
      “I do feel like we have been the best most unified team for so long. We all know to keep our heads down and keep working as there is a long way to go.”
      Wolff on Mercedes race
      Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has given his take on how they can improve following Lewis Hamilton’s third place and George Russell’s fourth.
       He told Sky Sports: “We were overwinged and had too much drag, mainly because we were lacking parts.
      “Hopefully we can remedy that, but we will also leave no stone unturned on improving the power unit as well.”
      Christian Horner speaks
      Red Bull chief Christian Horner said: “A brutal finish for us.
      “[This issue] could be a lift pump or a connector.
      “Max was of course disappointed, when you’re looking at a comfortable finish.”

      The top 10

      Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
      Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) +5.5
      Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) +9.6
      George Russell (Mercedes) +11.2
      Kevin Magnussen (Haas) +14.7
      Valtteri Bottas (Alfa Romeo) +16.1
      Esteban Ocon (Alpine) + 19.4
      Yuki Tsunoda (Alpha Tauri) +20.3
      Fernando Alonso (Alpine) +22.3
      Zhou Guanyu (Alfa Romeo) +23

      Ferrari winless streak ended
      Incredible scenes as Ferrari end 45 race winless streak!
      What a moment in Bahrain as the Italian anthem is played on the podium again.

      Hamilton speaks
      The Mercedes ace said: “It was great to see Carlos and Charles up there, so congratulations to them.
      “This is really the best result we could have got.”
      What drama
      The F1 season has started how the last season finished with that dramatic victory.

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    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid 0 Barcelona 4 LIVE REACTION: Aubameyang on the double as Real shell-shocked in El Clasico – latest

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      BARCELONA have stunned Real Madrid with a 4-0 El Clasico victory away at the Bernabeu.Former Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang helped himself to a double as Barca pummelled their rivals – who currently sit top of La Liga.
      The shock result moves Barca into third, still 12 points behind Real but with a game in hand.

      Kick-off: 8pm GMT
      TV/live stream: Premier Sports 1
      Real Madrid XI: Courtois, Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Nacho, Kroos, Modric, Casemeiro, Valverde, Viniscius, Rodrygo
      Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen, Pique, Araujo, Sergio, Dembele, Pedri, Jordi Alba, Ferran, De Jong, Eric, Aubameyang

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      Pique believes
      What do you reckon Barca fans, are you?

      Brilliant Barca shock the Bernabeu
      An incredibly dominant Barcelona have seen off their rivals after two goals in the first half, followed by two more in the second. Not to mention all the other chances they should have put away.
      Real Madrid started flat and careless. But in the second half, Ancelotti’s men were verging on the ridiculous, opening the door for Barcelona to score time, and time again. There was an adventurousness and smoothness on show this evening comparable to the Barca of old.
      As a result, Barcelona go level on points with Atletico Madrid in third place and will look to gain on Sevilla after they dropped points this evening. As for Real Madrid, it won’t change too much to their league campaign because of the gap they have created over everyone else, but nothing will feel worse than losing El Clasico.
      To the rest of us, Barcelona have delivered a shock thumping of Madrid in their own back yard. What was that all about?

      FULL TIME – Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      Well, hats off if you predicted that one.
      Xavi has led his side to Barcelona’s first El Clasico win since 2019.
      What a remarkable result.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      90, We have three minutes of added time here.
      Modric lets fly on his left foot, but the Barca players dive in front of it.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      89, Vinicius runs out of room on the wing, before being barged to the floor by a combination of Araujo and Nico.
      The Brazilian has struggled to have an impact this evening.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona – Cards, cards, cards…
      88, Lucas, Nico and Alves are all booked in a matter of seconds.

      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona – double change for Barcelona
      86, Veteran, Dani Alves is on for Alba, and Gonzalez will replace Pedri.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      85, Mariano keeps the ball alive in the area before poking a ball to Vazquez at the back post. The Spaniard can’t get his feet right and miscues it over the bar.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      84, Alaba’s cross is blocked and out for a corner.
      It’s Madrid’s best spell of the game, which tells you a lot about how they’ve played this evening.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      82, Valverde picks the ball up from 30 yards and releases a decent strike on goal. But it’s just over Ter Stegen’s bar.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona – Yellow card
      82, Camavinga is booked for a big tackle on Busquets. He wins the ball but the referee saw it as dangerous play.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona – Barca substitution
      80, Dembele’s number is up, and Traore is on. Just what Madrid would have wanted to see…
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      78, Dembele gives the ball away, and Vinicius runs at the defence. He plays it back to Alaba who has a powerful strike on goal, but Ter Stegen denies the Austrian.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      77, Coutois is the only man saving Madrid from further humiliation.
      Depay has an attempt on the volley and the Madrid keeper parries it away.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      76, Alaba pushes it past Araujo and cuts it back to Asensio. But the Spaniard is under pressure and fires well over the bar.
      The first real sighting of goal for Madrid in this second half.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona – Yellow card
      75, Alba is booked for a sliding challenge on Vinicius.

      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      73, Depay plays a ball in behind Militao who loses his bearings and Dembele can get a shot away as he’s dragged to the ground.
      It goes wide, and the winger will know that should have been five.
      No appeals for a penalty. You sense Barcelona just don’t feel they need it.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      72, Pedri brilliantly wriggles free of a group of Madrid players. Brilliant maturity from the teenager.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona – Barca change
      71, There will be no hat trick for Aubamayang today. Depay is on in his place.
      Gavi is also on for De Jong.

      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      66, Yep, you guessed it. Barcelona get through, again. This time, Aubameyang is played in behind, but Militao gets back in time and shoves him off the ball.
      How Barcelona are being continually afforded this space is mystifying.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      63, Real Madrid just won’t learn!
      Torres is played through once again, and fires a shot on target. But a good stop from Courtois.
      It’s like Real Madrid are just playing with midfielders. A total lack of organisation.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona – Madrid substitution
      62, It’s the end of the evening for Nacho and Rodrygo who are replaced by Vazquez and Asensio.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      60, Rodrygo tame effort.
      Vinicius checks inside and Rodrygo has a shot on goal. But it’s weak and easy for Ter Stegen.
      Something for the Madrid fans to cheer, though. Even if it’s done ironically.
      Aubameyang then gets it up the other end. But his effort is equally tame and doesn’t trouble Courtois this time.
      Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      57, It should be five!
      Torres is slipped through by Alba, and plays a lovely low ball to the back post where Aubameyang was sliding in. His effort is skewed wide, though.
      What a chance for the hat-trick!
      GOAL! – Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona
      The offside is reviewed and the decision is overturned. Replays show that Alaba was playing Torres onside from the other side of the pitch.
      The goal is given. Aubameyang has his second, and Barcelona have their fourth.
      Their fourth!!!

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    • 188 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      FA Cup semi-final draw LIVE: Man City get Liverpool, Chelsea to take on Crystal Palace

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      THE FA Cup is heading into its last four as teams dream of the Wembley final in May.Chelsea are through after a 2-0 win at Middlesbrough in front of a small portion of away fans due to government sanctions on Roman Abramovich.
      And they will face Crystal Palace, who secured a crushing victory over ex-Blue Frank Lampard’s Everton.
      Man City have also set up a trip to Wembley after cruising to victory at Southampton and they will face Liverpool, after the Reds beat Nottingham Forest 1-0.

      Manchester City vs Liverpool
      Chelsea vs Crystal Palace

      *Ties to be played on weekend of April 16/17
      Forest rue bad cup luck
      Nottingham Forest were left fuming after being denied a late penalty in their FA Cup defeat to Liverpool.
      Ryan Yates burst through on goal in the 85th minute looking to net a dramatic equaliser.
      He tried to knock the ball around Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, who stretched wide in vain after rushing out from his station.
      And a full-throttle charge from both men saw Yates go down in the box.
      The Forest star and his teammates wildly protested to the referee that it should be a penalty.
      However, VAR entered the chat as Stockley Park officials reviewed the footage.
      And replays suggested that although Alisson’s decision had been rash, there was minimal contact between him and Yates, who also appeared to drag his leg out.
      Keane dismisses Forest penalty claim
      Roy Keane believes referee Craig Pawson made the correct decision in not giving Nottingham Forest a penalty in Liverpool’s 1-0 win at the City Ground in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
      Former Manchester United captain Keane was in the ITV studio when Liverpool progressed to the FA Cup semi-finals and he highlighted how Forest striker Yates wasn’t ‘smart enough’ to win a penalty for his side against Jurgen Klopp’s men.
      He said: “The referee has got it right. It was a brilliant pass and an absolutely fantastic touch, but I think the problem with Yates is that he is too honest and not smart enough,” said Keane once the match had finished.
      “He should really try and go into the goalkeeper more because he is thinking, ‘I want to score’ and we can’t criticise him for that, but he has got to go into the ‘keeper and we probably see a more experienced player do that and I think the referee has got it right.
      “It is frustrating because he is so honest and trying to stay on his feet but he needed to be smarter there.”
      Worrall ‘very proud’ of Forest
      Joe Worrall is proud of what Nottingham Forest have achieved this season despite the defeat to Liverpool.
      Nottingham Forest defender Joe Worrall told ITV: “I think what we’ve done this season so far, we’ve created belief, optimism with the new manager and the players and performances.
      “Never mind today, we have been fantastic over the last six months since the manager has come in. There’s a real buzz around the city – 28,500 came out to watch us tonight and we went toe to toe with one of the best teams in the world. Very proud.”
      On Philip Zinckernagel chance: “You’ve got to take those chances. Nine times out of 10 in training Phil puts them away. We do that all the time, cross in from the right and it’s a goal. It’s a trademark of ours. We’ve got some good young players too – to come and play 90 minutes against players of that calibre is so impressive.
      “We’re a humble side, we work hard for each other. We dig in, we’re not scared to play quick attacking football or be honest, we’ve got good honest players, we’re an honest bunch. And we’ve got the league as well to focus on, it’s not all doom and gloom.”
      Klopp praises Forest’s Steve Cooper
      Jurgen Klopp was not pleased with his side’s performance but like Diogo Jota he praise Forest for their display.
      The German also praised his matchwinner for his fine finish which settled the match 1-0.
      Klopp told ITV: “That was a proper cup match. Massive compliment for Steve Cooper and his team.
      “We should have played better but they made it really difficult. They had moments but then we went 1-0 up. We came though and I’m really happy.”
      On Diogo Jota’s winner: “It was a difficult one to finish off. He is a proper striker. Absolutely great.”
      Diogo Jota praises Forest resilience
      Diogo Jota praised Nottingham Forest for giving Liverpool a “tough game”.
      Jota, speaking to ITV, said: “It was obviously a tough game. They [Forest] are a great team and play with lots of intensity and they gave us proper fight.”
      On if he thought his goal was offside: “Yeah, I thought it was tight. They had one big, big chance. They gave us a proper challenge and their fans were outstanding. But we are in semi-finals.”
      On facing Manchester City in the semi-final: “I didn’t know. OK, it’s another tough game. One more. There are still a lot of games before then.”
      Full-time in the Midlands
      Liverpool secure their place at Wembley after fighting off later Nottingham Forest pressure.
      Steve Cooper will feel sorry for himself and his team with Forest arguably deserving the winner.
      But Liverpool now face Manchester City in the semis as their bid for the quadruple continues.
      Forest denied late penalty
      Forest want a penalty claiming Ryan Yates was brought down by Alisson!
      There was contact but the referee is having none of it and VAR agreed.
      Liverpool lead Forest 1-0
      Jota’s chest appeared to be offside but the goals stands!
      The Portuguese did brilliantly to get onto the end of Kostas Tsmikis’ cross to poke in at the far post.
      Ten minutes left for Forest to find an equaliser.
      GOAL! Nottingham Forest 0 Liverpool 1
      Moments later Liverpool go up the other end and Diogo Jota fires the Reds in front.
      VAR check…
      Almost a breakthrough
      We’re 75 minutes into this quarter-final tie and Forest should have the lead.
      Brennan Johnson squared for Zinkernagel who was in acres of space in the box but he put his effort wide.
      Half-time in the Midlands
      It’s all square at the City Ground.
      Liverpool have dominated play as one might expect but they have struggled to break down Nottingham Forest.
      In fact, their best chance came from a poor pass back from Jack Colback with Roberto Firmino denied by goalkeeper Ethan Horvath.
      Chelsea fans face nervous wait
      Chelsea fans are waiting to find out whether or not the club will be allowed to sell tickets for their FA Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace at Wembley Stadium.
      The Blues have been drawn against Patrick Vieira’s side in the last four and are set to face them on the weekend of the 16th and 17th of April.
      SunSport understands a decision on Chelsea’s ticket allocation will be made during the international break.
      But the decision will be made by the government and not the FA as the sanctions imposed on Chelsea are from Downing Street.
      Only 600 Chelsea fans were present for their quarter-final tie away at Middlesbrough on Saturday after the sanctions were placed upon them
      Kick-off at the City ground
      Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool is underway and there is an electric atmosphere inside The City ground.
      Both teams have only lost one game each in 2022 so this is set to be a thrilling encounter.
      Jurgen Klopp entering new territory
      This is the first time Liverpool have reached the quarter-finals of the FA Cup under Jurgen Klopp.
      But the German will look to go one better and reach the semis to set-up a mouthwatering clash against Manchester City.
      The two teams have battled it out in the Premier League and Champions League previously.
      So it is only right England’s oldest competition should get a taste of the rivalry too – with a place in the final a fitting reward for the winner.
      Lawro predicts narrow Liverpool win
      Mark Lawrenson predicts a close game after Liverpool rested a number of stars against Forest.
      But he still predicts a Reds win as they have not been beaten in domestic competition for some time.
      Jurgen Klopp’s squad has got him this far in all four major competitions, and I think he will rotate his team again.
      That will give Forest more hope, and they do have a clever manager in Steve Cooper plus some very talented players – Djed Spence scored a stunning goal against QPR on Wednesday and I’d be surprised if he’s not playing in the Premier League next season.
      It is going to be close, but with Liverpool in this kind of form it is hard to back anyone to beat them at the moment.
      Prediction: 0-1
      Title contenders to face off?
      Chelsea will fancy their chances of making the FA Cup final for a second year running.
      Patrick Vieira is quietly confident about his side however and will be aiming to lead Palace to their first final since 2016.
      Meanwhile, Liverpool and Manchester City will take their title fight to Wembley, unless Forest produce a shock in this evening’s match.
      FA Cup semi final draw
      Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest or Liverpool
      Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
      Ties to be played weekend of 16 and 17 April.
      Klopp grateful for Forest gesture
      Jurgen Klopp has praised the “great gesture” of Nottingham Forest to leave 97 seats vacant in remembrance of the Liverpool fans who lost their lives at Hillsborough.
      It is the first FA Cup meeting between the sides since that fateful day in 1989.
      The Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish also applauded the gesture in a social media post.
      He wrote: “Thank you. From my perspective your club was hugely respectful on the day and that will never be forgotten.”
      FA Cup draw numbers revealed
      Three out of the four semi-final teams have been confirmed ahead of the draw.
      And the numbers are as follows:
      1 Crystal Palace
      2 Nottingham Forest or Liverpool
      3 Chelsea
      4 Manchester City
      Forest team news vs Liverpool
      Nottingham Forest make one change from their win over QPR in the Championship in midweek with Joe Lolley starting in place of injured defender Scott McKenna.
      The hosts are also without first-choice defenders Steve Cook and Max Lowe because of ankle and groin injuries respectively.
      Nottingham Forest XI: Horvath, Worrall, Figueiredo, Lolley, Spence, Yates, Garner, Colback, Zinckernagel, Johnson, Davis.
      Liverpool team news vs Forest
      Jurgen Klopp makes seven changes to the side that beat Arsenal in the Premier League in midweek.
      First-choice keeper Alisson does start at the City Ground but Trent Alexander-Arnold is missing through injury while Andrew Robertson and Sadio Mane also miss out.
      The likes of Joel Matip Thiago, Jordan Henderson and Luis Diaz drop to the bench.
      Liverpool XI: Alisson, Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas, Keita, Fabinho, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Elliott, Jota, Firmino.
      Kevin De Bruyne eyeing treble
      Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne was not happy with some of the mistakes his side made in the win at Southampton.
      But he did praise his team-mates for scoring “beautiful goals” and is determined to win the FA Cup this season.
      De Bruyne told BBC 5 Live: “I think the first 20 minutes and the last half an hour we did well. In between we made too many stupid mistakes and even with their goal, we should have just played it out – there were 30 seconds to go until half-time.
      “But I think the reaction was really good – the second half, we dominated and we did much better.
      “We didn’t play at our best but after the second goal we did much better – the third and fourth goals were beautiful goals and we saw then how good we can play.
      “We want to win every competition we enter, we have lost in a couple of FA Cup semi-finals but we are very happy and privileged we go again and hopefully we can win it this time.”
      Pep speaks on Southampton win
      Pep Guardiola has shared his thoughts on the win and praised Southampton for giving his side a difficult game.
      City were made to work hard for the win before making the scoreline more comfortable late on.
      “We started really well for 20-25 minutes but last 15 minutes (of the first half) we forgot how to play.
      “It is difficult Southampton is one of the best organised teams we have faced this season, they push you and the intensity is difficult.
      “It’s not a comfortable victory but of course now we go into international break.
      “We are in three competitions and today was important in fighting for the cup title.”
      Micah Richards expects City silverware
      Micah Richards was also full of praise for Pep Guardiola’s side.
      In particular, he focused on City’s dominance of the ball with City boasting 65 per cent possession.
      And he predicted City to win two trophies this season – but would not say which ones
      He said on the BBC’s post-match coverage: “What Manchester City do in terms of grinding out results is outstanding.
      “They starve the opposition of the ball and they were excellent in the second half.
      “The quality City can bring off the bench like they did today, that will make a massive difference in what happens.”
      Keown tips City for cup
      Martin Keown believes Manchester City are one of the favourites to win the FA Cup after a convincing performance against Southampton.
      Keown said on the BBC: “An outstanding performance in the end but Southampton really made a cup tie of it.
      “They really made a go of it but class told in the end, Phil Foden and Riyad Mahrez just too good for them.
      “They just keep going, I can only see City going on to win trophies now.
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      Tottenham 3-1 West Ham LIVE RESULT: Son wraps up victory for Spurs after Kurt Zouma own goal – Premier League latest

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      TOTTENHAM have secured a crucial London derby win over West Ham.Hammers defender Kurt Zouma deflected the ball into his own net to give Spurs and early lead to the delight of the home crowd.
      And Son Heung-min then made it 2-0 with less than 25 minutes on the clock.
      A volley from Said Benrahma got West Ham back in the game but Son made the game safe with a second late on.
      Time to refocus
      With an international break taking place now, Tottenham have time to rest and focus on the run in.
      Despite being behind their North London rivals, Arsenal have to travel to Tottenham in one of their remaining fixtures (date to be confirmed).
      All Antonio Conte can ask from his team is that they keep on winning to put the pressure on Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal.
      Tottenham host Newcastle in their next game while Arsenal travel to Crystal Palace.
      Read my mind
      The partnership between Kane and Son is a joy to watch.
      They know each other’s movements without needing to look up and can sense where the other wants the ball.
      Dropping deep and linking play does take Kane away from goal but when Son Heung-Min is banging them in it doesn’t really matter.
      Antonio Conte will need to wrap these two in cotton wool in between games.

      London calling shots
      It seems as though the race for fourth place could be a North London affair this season with Arsenal and Tottenham challenging.
      After today’s win, Spurs are in fifth spot only three points behind their rivals.
      Arsenal do have a game in hand but potentially do have the more difficult run in of the two teams.
      One thing is for sure, Tottenham plan on keeping the pressure on The Gunners to see if they slip up at all on the home straight.
      Pundits make excuses
      It is the first thing they point to when a side drop points having played only a few days earlier.
      These are professional athletes whose only job is to play football.
      They should be able to play every day if required.
      It is important to say that David Moyes had no issues with when they were being asked to play after their Europa League exploits on Thursday.
      Tired, young footballers who train no more than a couple of hours a day just does not wash.
      Nor will it wash with the audiences who are probably working well in excess of 40+ hours a week.
      FT: Tottenham 3-1 West Ham
      The referee brings the game to a close.
      Good win for Tottenham, it could have been an easier game for them but they were the architects of their own problems.
      Kane surely man of the match, no goals but provider extraordinaire .
      Tottenham 3-1 West Ham
      90+4. Tottenham will be pleased with the three points today.
      They have ended their issue of not winning two Premier League games back-to-back this year.
      West Ham will point to their midweek excursions as rationale for the performance.
      Tottenham 3-1 West Ham
      90+2. Antonio Conte hugs Son as he is substituted like a kid who has just found his car keys.
      Great performance by the Tottenham playmaker today.
      Him and Kane have some connection.

      Tottenham 3-1 West Ham
      90. We will have five minutes of added time here.
      Not a lot of time for West Ham to claw this back.
      Never say never.
      Tottenham 3-1 West Ham
      88. Lloris kicks it long, Kane flicks it on into the path of Son.
      The South Korean is clean through on goal with only Fabianski to beat.
      He slots it passed him with ease.
      On another day, Son could have had a hat-trick here.
      Kurt Zouma had other things to say about that.
      Goal – Son Heung-Min (Tottenham)
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      86. West Ham swing in a corner and it causes problems in the Tottenham penalty area.
      The Hammers are good in the air and dominate their North London neighbours.
      Lloris gets a hand to one before following it up by diving on the ball.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      84. West Ham come forward again in their laboured approach.
      There seems to be little movement from the visitors currently.
      Maybe their exploits against Sevilla are taking their toll.
      These are professional sportsmen however.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      82. West Ham need to up their game in these final ten minutes or so.
      There seems to be no urgency from Moyes’ team to find that equaliser.
      Meanwhile Benrahma breaks down the left before he is dispossessed.

      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham – Kane chance!
      79. What a chance for the England striker.
      Hojbjerg plays him into the box with a sublime pass.
      Kane mishits the effort well over the bar.
      He then looks at the linesman to see if he was offside.
      No flag as yet, we will keep you posted.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      78. Tottenham are getting to that stage of the game where they start to think about holding onto what they have.
      That doesn’t tend to pan out well historically.
      It should drive West Ham on more.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      76. West Ham have played pretty well today but they have lacked that X Factor that Jarrod Bowen gives them.
      They don’t have many stand out players who want to run at teams and take players on and as a result are missing him even more.
      Rice tries to get things going again on the break.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      74. The Tottenham fans start a round of ‘oh when the Spurs’ in a hope it will inspire their team.
      Kane dances passed two players and feeds Reguilon in.
      His shot isn’t troubling Fabianski who saves easily.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      72. Thankfully someone has woken the Spurs fans up.
      The game certainly wouldn’t be responsible at the moment.
      West Ham are still playing aerial balls up to Yarmolenko, not really utilising the Ukrainian player’s abilities.

      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham – Kulusevski chance!
      70. Kane gets the ball out to his forward partner quickly.
      He takes one touch and looks to bend it into the top corner.
      Sadly it doesn’t come off, unless ‘top corner’ is the name of a fan sat in row M.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      68. It is nice to see that even when the football is becoming a bit tiresome that the fans can still muster up the energy to boo Kurt Zouma.
      Maybe some of the players should take inspiration from this.
      It remains to be seen who wants this the most.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      66. The more the clock ticks down with only one goal separating the sides, the more you feel West Ham could get something out of this game.
      Both teams are having their fair share of possession but neither are creating anything of note.
      I aim to be proved wrong.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      64. Tottenham seem short of ideas in this second half.
      When they get to the final third there seems to be a lack of options.
      Things work well for Spurs when Kane drops off and links up play but that is in positions you do not want a striker.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      62. Reguilon, have a word with yourself.
      The full back is played through and he goes down in an attempt to win a penalty.
      Embarrassing stuff from the Tottenham man.

      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      60. The Hammers are knocking the ball around with no pressure on them whatsoever.
      Not sure what the tactic is with this approach from Tottenham.
      Just inviting the opposition to attack them with no press on them.
      Tottenham 2-1 West Ham
      58. Masuaku and Antonio are substituted.
      Yarmolenko and Fornels come on.
      West Ham are growing in confidence here.
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      Tottenham vs West Ham LIVE: Stream, TV channel, score, teams, kick-off time – Premier League latest updates

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      TOTTENHAM are taking on West Ham today in a huge London derby.Spurs and the Hammers both have an outside chance of reaching the Champions League but the two sides will need a victory here if they are to stay in the hunt.

      Kick-off time: 4.30pm
      TV channel: Sky Sports Premier League
      Live stream: Sky Go/Now TV
      Tottenham XI: Lloris, Romero, Dier, Davies, Doherty, Bentancur, Hojbjerg, Reguilon, Son, Kulusevski, Kane.
      West Ham XI: Fabianski, Johnson, Dawson, Zouma, Creswell, Rice, Soucek; Benrahma, Lanzini, Masuaku, Antonio.

      Fans have part to play
      Antonio Conte spoke about the part he wants their twelfth man to play today against West Ham.
      It would be very important to have a fantastic atmosphere around us in the stadium. Our fans, they have to play an important part in the game. Like all the other games they can help us by pushing us from the start until the end, to create a fantastic atmosphere around us. It’ll be very important for us.Antonio Conte Tottenham
      Consistency is key
      The one thing that seems to frustrate Antonio Conte the most about his team is how massively inconsistent their form can be.
      He will be hoping they can win back to back Premier League games for the first time in 2022.

      West Ham subs:
      13. Areola, 24. Fredericks, 23. Diop, 16. Noble, 33. Kral, 11. Vlasic, 8. Fornals, 64. Perkins, 7. Yarmolenko
      West Ham starting XI:
      Two changes for The Hammers with Fabianski returning in goal and Masuaku coming in for Fornals.
      It will be interesting to see how they line up with the outfield change.
      1. Fabianski, 31. Johnson, 15. Dawson, 4. Zouma, 3. Cresswell, 26. Masuaku, 41. Rice, 28. Soucek, 10. Lanzini, 22. Benrahma, 9. Antonio
      Credit: @WestHam
      Tottenham subs:
      6. Sanchez, 8. Winks, 12. Emerson Royal, 14. Rodon, 22. Gollini, 23. Bergwijn, 27. Lucas Moura, 42. White, 44. Scarlett.
      Tottenham starting XI:
      Antonio Conte names the same side that beat Brighton in the week.
      Keeping the in-form front three of Kulusevski, Son and Kane together.
      1. Lloris, 4. Romero, 15. Dier, 33. Davies, 2. Doherty, 30. Bentancur, 5. Hojbjerg, 3. Reguilon, 21. Kulusevski, 7. Son Heung-Min, 10. Kane
      Credit: @SpursOfficial
      Times are changing
      West Ham have come up trumps in the last two Premier League meetings with Spurs, both of which were in front of their own fans.
      They lost 2-1 in North London in the EFL Cup quarter-finals back in December and will certainly not be at peak fitness after two hours of gruelling Thursday night action.
      Spurs having had an extra day’s rest after beating Brighton 0-2 on Wednesday in the Premier League.
      Qualification push remains tight
      West Ham sit one place better off than Tottenham in sixth but are only above their North London rivals courtesy of a better goal difference.
      Each of the Hammers’ last three games away from home in all tournaments has ended in defeat.
      Victory today would see Tottenham leapfrog their opponents while still having a game in hand over them.
      Battle for Europe continues
      The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is basking in some spring sunshine today as Antonio Conte’s side welcome West Ham.
      Both sides are keen to push for European qualification with David Moyes’ team still involved in the Europa League with a quarter-final tie against Lyon to look forward to.

      Moyes set for challenge
      David Moyes told the media his thoughts on such a quick turnaround having only played Sevilla on Thursday evening.
      We’re a resilient group of players and we hope that we’ll all be fine and we’ll go again. I think an extra day would help anybody, but we’re pleased we’re in the Europa League and that we’ve qualified. I’d have taken that any day and now we’ll get ready for the Tottenham game.David MoyesWest Ham
      Front line firing
      Harry Kane is aiming to score in five successive Premier League matches for the first time.
      Son Heung-min has six goals and one assist in his last seven top-flight home games.
      Spurs have won eight and lost eight of their 16 matches in 2022.
      Hammers upsetting the odds
      West Ham could win three consecutive league matches against Spurs for the first time since 1999.
      The Hammers are looking to complete a Premier League double over Spurs for the third time.
      Conte’s side have lost two of their last three top-flight home games.
      Fortune favours the brave
      Tottenham have lost two of their last 19 top-flight games with West Ham (W10, D7)
      Harry Kane has 8 goals in 6 Premier League games vs West Ham.
      Spurs have suffered defeat in five of their seven Premier League London derbies this season.
      Welcome to Tottenham vs West Ham
      Today we have a London derby to wet the appetite as Tottenham take on West Ham at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
      David Moyes’ side come into this game fresh from their Europa League extra time victory over Sevilla on Thursday.
      Spurs are still hoping to chase down rivals Arsenal in their hunt for Champions League football, currently sitting six points behind the fourth-placed team.
      Ryan Sessegnon (thigh) and Oliver Skipp (groin) are still unavailable for Antonio Conte’s team while Japhet Tanganga is out for the season after surgery on his right knee.
      West Ham will continue to assess those involved in Thursday’s Europa League tie prior to today’s game.
      Jarrod Bowen is still sidelined with a heel injury while full-back Vladimir Coufal is recovering from a hernia op.
      Angelo Ogbonna is also not available for The Hammers as he recovers from an operation also.
      Moyes is sure to consider some alterations despite the magnitude of the contest, with West Ham having less than 72 hours to recover after 120 minutes in Europe, as Ryan Fredericks and Arthur Masuaka provide alternative options in defence.
      Both sides are currently on the same number of points in their chase for European qualification, with fourth place firmly in their sights still.
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      in Soccer

      FA Cup semi-final draw LIVE: Start time UK, TV channel, live stream free, ball numbers as Crystal Palace join Chelsea

      by

      THE FA Cup is heading into its last four as teams dream of the final in May.Chelsea are already through after a 2-0 win at Middlesbrough in front of a small portion of away fans due to government sanctions on Roman Abramovich.
      And they have been joined by Crystal Palace, who secured a crushing victory over Frank Lampard’s Everton.
      When is the FA Cup semi-final draw?

      The FA Cup semi-final draw takes place on Sunday, March 20 – TODAY.
      It commences before the match between Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool.

      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Sport.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      What TV channel is the FA Cup semi-final draw on and can I live stream it free?

      The FA Cup semi-final draw is live on ITV.
      Coverage of Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool commences at 5.15pm with kick-off at 6pm.
      To stream the draw live, head to the ITV Hub.
      You can also watch it on the FA’s social media accounts.
      Both of these methods are FREE for UK viewers.

      Ball numbers

      Crystal Palace
      Nottingham Forest or Liverpool
      Chelsea
      Southampton or Man City

      Not g-owen to happen
      Michael Owen reckons Liverpool will be too strong for Nottingham Forest today.
      He said on his BetVictor blog: “It’s great to see Forest in the latter stages, it’s been a great run for them,” Owen said on his BetVictor blog.
      “They’ve given teams problems at the City Ground, but Liverpool are looking too strong at the moment.
      “I can’t think of a more form team in Europe than Liverpool.”
      Lampard on Everton loss
      Everton boss Frank Lampard wasn’t happy after the Toffees were dumped out of the FA Cup at the hands of Crystal Palace.
      He fumed after the game: “The dream of getting to the semi-final and playing at Wembley, they’ve gone.
      “As far as I’m concerned, the biggest prize this season was staying in the Premier League – I came to the club knowing that.
      “That’s the focus now.“
      Zaha fancies Palace’s chances
      Crystal Palace star Wilfred Zaha is adamant that the Eagles have still got more to offer in the FA Cup.
      Speaking after his side disposed of Everton to ease into the final four, Zaha beamed: “It’s amazing. It’s crazy that it is the first year this team has played together – and you can see the progress already.
      “Over time, when the team gels together more, there is more to come.
      “It shows [reaching the FA Cup semi final] what direction the club is going. The players we brought in and how we play, it is just showing what we have got for the future.”
      Golden balls
      Here’s the ball the numbers of each team.
      The balls will be picked to decide each team’s opponent in the final four of the FA Cup.
      Ball numbers

      Crystal Palace
      Nottingham Forest or Liverpool
      Chelsea
      Southampton or Man City

      Semi-final draw time

      The FA Cup semi-final draw is live on ITV.
      Coverage of Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool commences at 5.15pm with kick-off at 6pm.
      To stream the draw live, head to the ITV Hub.
      You can also watch it on the FA’s social media accounts.
      Both of these methods are FREE for UK viewers.

      Good afternoon FA Cup fans
      The FA Cup semi-final draw will take place TODAY just before Liverpool take on Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
      Forest have a huge task on their hands against a rampant Reds side who have won nine games on the trot this year.
      Chelsea have already booked their place in the last four after a 2-0 win over Middlesbrough on Saturday night.
      Boro had a good run in the competition after knocking out both Premier League giants Manchester United and Tottenham.
      But the Championship side were brought crashing down by the mighty Blues despite their problems off the pitch.
      And the Blues were joined in the semi’s by Crystal Palace who thumped Everton 4-0 on Sunday afternoon.
      The Toffees’ defeat added to the woes of boss Frank Lampard who’s desperately trying to keep the club away from relegation.
      The last place in the final four will belong to either Manchester City or Southampton who are also going head to head on Sunday.
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      F1 Bahrain Grand Prix LIVE RESULTS: Race UNDERWAY with Hamilton starting strongly – Stream, TV channel, latest

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      AFTER possibly the greatest season in Formula One history, the drivers are BACK on the track for 2022 at the Bahrain Grand Prix.And Lewis Hamilton has missed out on pole for the opening race after finishign fifth in qualifying.
      Rival Max Verstappen came in second, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc starting from the top of the grid.

      TV channel: Sky Sports F1
      Live stream: Now TV
      Sunday, March 20: Bahrain Grand Prix (3pm)

      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)

      Stay up to date with all the latest from the latest from the Bahrain Grand Prix in our live blog…
      These two are trading blows
      Almost a repeat on lap 18, as Verstappen gets the move done on turn one, but Leclerc is back in front by turn four.
      This is epic stuff and has been a clean fight until now.
      Tasty between Verstappen and Leclerc
      And the Red Bull man goes wide and around Leclerc on the straight and gets ahead, sparks flying.
      But Leclerc is not done. He’s back alongside and regains P1.
      Hamilton radio
      He said: “That was a really early stop.”
      He was first to go for his tyres.
      Lap 15 Verstappen stops for tyres
      The Dutchman pits from second place. His stop takes 2.9 seconds.
      Sainz also reacts and stops at the same time. His stop is quicker at 2.2 seconds.
      Lap 12 Hamilton stops for tyres
      It is an early stop for Hamilton. The change for hard tyres takes 3.4 seconds.
      Remember, newer tyres this year on larger wheels, making a slower stop.
      Also, those tyres are cooler than last year – less heat in the tyre blankets, he’s sliding all over the place.
      Lap 11
      Leclerc leads Verstappen by 3.1 seconds. Sainz is third, Perez is fourth. It is Ferrari, Red Bull, Ferrari, Red Bull.
      Perez passes Hamilton
      That was a clean overtake on lap 10. The Red Bull breezed past the Brit.
      Ocon gets a penalty
      A five second penalty for the Alpine man for causing a collision with Schumacher. A slam dunk and easy one for the stewards.

      Lap 6
      Leclerc has a 1.750second advantage over Verstappen. Sainz and then Hamilton make up the top four. Perez in fifth.
      Ocon and Schumacher make contact
      The German is sent into a spin after being hit by the Frenchman’s Alpine. The stewards are looking at the incident.
      Bottas has dropped EIGHT places
      The Alfa Romeo man impressed on Saturday but has already sunk to 14th.
      But it is a terrible start for McLaren
      Daniel Ricciardo is LAST, Lando Norris has dropped to 16th. They have a lot of hard work to do this season after what was a positive Barcelona test.
      Good start for Leclerc
      He keeps his lea over Verstappen and Sainz. Hamilton is up to fourth.

      Here we go, ready for the first race of 2022
      The cars are off on their formation lap. Can Leclerc hang on to P1, or will Verstappen get off to a winning start?

      Horner on Hamilton’s chances
      Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has refused to write off Hamilton’s chances going into the race.
      Hamilton’s starting in fifth on the grid but Horner insists that the Brit can still be dangerous.
      Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “Let’s not write him off in this race. He is going to be pumped coming into this so he remains someone we need to watch out for.”
      Tick Tock
      Lewis Hamilton is about to jump into his car ahead of the race.
      The Brit took a second to wave to the fans in the stadium.
      But once he gets in the car he’ll have to be focused to overturn his starting position in fifth spot.

      Race debut
      Chinese driver Zhou Guanyu starts his first-ever F1 race today for Alfa Romeo.
      Guanya wriggled into Q2 at practice yesterday and starts on the grid in P15.
      And he admits that it’s a crazy feeling to be on the grid for the first time in Bahrain.
      Race day🏁 @F1 debut, crazyyyyy— 周冠宇 | Zhou Guanyu 🇨🇳 (@ZhouGuanyu24) March 20, 2022

      Sainz’ looking forward to race
      Carlos Sainz is feeling optimistic ahead of the race that begins in fifteen minutes.
      And he’s happy with the weather too.
      Speaking to Sky, he said: “Conditions have changed a bit.
      “A bit warmer today. The wind has rotated a bit so the car feels a bit different.
      “The car feels good all weekend and I need to see if I can translate the qualy pace into race pace.”
      Magic Haas to happen
      Haas driver Kevin Magnussen is still pinching himself after achieving seventh on the grid for today’s face.
      He said: “It’s been a real roller coaster the last couple of weeks and everything that we went through in that two weeks to manage everything that had to be managed and actually get here and then drive the car, get a good feeling and get some hope.
      “We had a suspicion that it might be quite good, then qualifying was another whole roller coaster in itself with the problems we had not being able to run more than once in Q2 and 3 and not even knowing if we could get out again in Q3 and all that.
      “So getting P7 for tomorrow’s race, after all that, is really, really cool.”
      Verstappen’s game plan
      Max Verstappen is focused on the long game in today’s race.
      Speaking to Sky Sports F1, the World Champion said: “We have to score points. We have a competitive car and will try to fight for the win. Let’s see how the race is going to go. I think will be very close.
      “We need to play the long game. Last year the race was decided in the last few laps and probably will be the same again.
      “So we have to stay focused and obviously try to attack.”
      Not long left!
      The cars have started to come onto the track as the race time gets closer.
      There’s just half-hour left until the season opener in Bahrain gets underway.

      Verstappen’s focused
      Max Verstappen looked ready for business ahead of the race.
      The Red Bull ace starts in second on the grid and seemed ready to handle business when snapped before the battle for the top spot begins.
      Credit: Alamy
      A bit of Bahrain history
      Hamilton should be feeling lucky going into the Bahrain GP.
      As the BBC reported that the race has been won by a British or German over the past decade.
      And Hamilton’s won it consecutively over the previous three years.
      The Brit also cruised to victory in the region in 2013 and 2014 respectively.
      Hamilton’s confident exterior
      lewis Hamilton looked relaxed going into the Bahrain GP.
      The Mercedes driver was pictured with a smirk on his face as he prepared for the race.
      Despite starting on the grid in fifth – Hamilton looked like he doesn’t have a care in the world.

      Bahrain GP line up.
      Here’s a reminder of how the drivers will line up In Bahrain.
      Leclerc starts in the top spot with Verstappen just behind.
      Sainz begins in third and Perez is in fourth.
      Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton rounds off the top five.

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      in Boxing

      Thor vs Eddie Hall LIVE REACTION: Hall BREAKS silence, three KNOCKDOWNS recorded in heaviest fight in history – latest

      by

      Hafthor Bjornsson has beaten Eddie Hall in their huge boxing match over in Dubai.Thor dropped Hall TWICE in the six-round thriller, after recovering from an early knockdown himself.
      The feuding pair weighed in a combined 47 STONES – making it the biggest boxing fight in history!
      We’ll be bringing you ALL of the reaction live and direct from Dubai here.
      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Joshua proved wrong
      Anthony Joshua’s boxing predictions were proved wrong after Thor defeated Eddie Hall.
      Before the fight, Joshua had thrown his weight behind pal Hall on Instagram Live.
      When asked for his fight predictions, Joshua said: “Eddie vs Thor? Go on Eddie.
      “Good fight though, but I’m with Eddie. Eddie’s my guy.
      “I’m looking forward to that one.”
      Heaviest-weight boxing clash
      Thor and Eddie Hall took part in the heaviest fight in boxing.
      The two man mountains weighed an astonishing 47 STONE combined.
      And National World reveal that’s the equivalent of roughly one vending machine filled with ten bags of sugar.
      Fans dispute Thor’s win
      Fans are disputing Thor’s win over Eddie Hall by claiming that rounds in the fight were stopped early.
      They took to Twitter to address the alleged travesty.
      On fan said: “Noticed they would ring the bell in the second round and last round EARLY.
      “[There would] be 5-10 seconds left and they ring the bell early. What’s up with that? You guys don’t call the shots but what’s with the bell ringer and ref? Eddie knocked Thor back and ref didn’t let him follow through.”
      One fan addressed Hall directly – and said: “You know that they stopped multiple rounds early, the 6th round was stopped 10 seconds early, and if you’re not up someone’s ass about this you’re making a mistake. You got robbed on points.”
      Fury and Thor’s history
      Thor called out Tyson Fury BEFORE he’d even beaten Hall, declaring he would “absolutely” go toe-to-toe with the world heavyweight champ.
      And Thor even backed himself to beat the Gypsy King, 33, insisting: “A lot of people have asked if I’ll fight Tyson Fury.
      “Will I fight the best boxer in the world right now? Absolutely. If the offer is there, 100 per cent. I couldn’t say no to that.”
      He added: “I would train my ass off and surprise the world.”
      Who’s next for Thor
      Thor’s dominant win over Eddie Hall in Dubai has opened the door for a number of mouthwatering fights.
      Here SunSport takes a look at who could be in Thor’s firing line.

      Eddie Hall (rematch)
      Martyn Ford
      Tyson Fury
      Sajad Gharibi
      Mariusz Pudzianowski

      Ford not impressed with Thor
      Martyn Ford was left unimpressed with Thor’s win over his pal Eddie Hall.
      Speaking after the fight, Ford said: “I didn’t think he was special, i didn’t think he was great.
      “He used his advantages; he was clever, he was composed, he kept his distance and used his jab a lot.
      “It was a safe fight from Thor, he played it well and I’m just gutted for Eddie as a friend.”
      Hall’s next tattoo
      Eddie Hall must get Thor’s name tattoed on him after he lost to The Mountain.
      That’s if he sticks to the terms of a bet struck before the fight happened.
      The bet’s terms would see Hall get “World’s Strongest Man” and the winner’s name inked onto his skin.
      The rivals struck the bet last year after their initial bout had been postponed when Hall suffered a torn bicep.
      Fans unhappy with fight
      Viewers of Thor’s fight against Hall were left unamused with what they witnessed.
      The quality of the stream was poor which left fans feeling “robbed.”
      One fan tweeted: “Not only did the event not know how to run a stream, the fighters also didn’t know how to fight.”
      And another fumed: “I didn’t even pay for the fight, and I still feel robbed.”
      Hall’s fight prep
      Eddie Hall prepared for his fight with Thor by reading some jewels from Tyson Fury.
      Hall was pictured on a bed taking in Fury’s ‘The Furious Method’ book ahead of his fight with Thor.
      He captioned the snap with: “READING FROM THE BEST @gypsyking,” on Instagram.
      But unfortunately for Hall, Fury’s wisdom wasn’t enough to help him beat The Mountain.
      Thor’s next battle with son
      Thor shelved any celebration plans after his win to catch up on sleep before his son woke up.
      The Mountain took a moment out to thank his loved ones and training team for helping him attain victory.
      But his rushed home to prepare for his next battle – waking up in time to spend the day with his little one.

      Hammer vs Iron
      Thor has a few possible fights in the pipeline after defeating Eddie Hall in Dubai.
      The Mountain previously expressed interest in fighting Mike Tyson.
      But Tyson’s schedule may be booked up as a clash between Iron Mike and Jake Paul has also been discussed.
      Thor on boxing career
      The Mountain says he is not done with boxing just yet.
      Thor said after his six-round triumph over Eddie Hall that he is loving every aspect of the sport.
      The 6ft 8in superstar said: “I’m loving the training, I’m loving the sport.”
      Dubai fight report
      Thor Bjornsson handed Eddie Hall the heaviest blow of their storied rivalry by emerging victorious in their bitter grudge match.
      And the pair of former world’s strongest men – who weighed a combined 47 STONE – somehow both heard the final bell as it went the distance.
      They were forced to get up off the canvas to stun everyone inside the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium and complete the full six exhibitions rounds.
      But it was Bjornsson – who played The Mountain in Game of Thrones – who secured bragging right as his two knockdowns proved enough to earn the verdict.

      Thor offers Hall rematch
      Will we get Thor vs Hall 2 soon?
      Thor seems to think so and Hall has now responded to this saying he’s up for it too.
      The Mountain said after his win: “But I’m happy, if he wants the rematch I’ll take a rematch no problem.”

      The Beast speaks after his loss
      Eddie Hall said after his defeat: “You know what, I can take things as a man.
      “It is what it is, that is boxing. At the end of the day I’ve just fought the biggest man on the planet in a boxing match. I’d like to see anyone else get the balls and do that.
      “It’s been a hell of a journey; I’ve enjoyed it and hopefully there’s a rematch and we can do business again.”
      How the fight was scored
      Every one of the three judges scored it 57-54 for Thor!
      The Mountain’s two knockdowns and his better movement got him the win in Dubai.
      And Thor said afterwards that he and Hall’s grudge has not quite been fully settled now too. Rematch on the way?

      Thor thanks Hall…for a punch
      Thor has thanked Eddie Hall for rocking him for the first time in his new boxing career.
      Thor, 33, said: “I’d also like to thank Eddie Hall and his team for putting up a hell of a show, he gave me a hell of a battle.
      “I’ve never been dropped in training, so hats off to him. He really can punch. He wasn’t lying! But today, I feel technique won.”

      Eddie Hall vs Thor tale of the tape
      How the fighters compared before the big fight, which Thor won by a unanimous decision after six rounds at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium.
      Hall had scored an early knockdown on Thor, before the Icelandic star recovered with two knockdowns of his own.

      Will we get a rematch?
      Thor seems to already think so.
      The Mountain offered Eddie Hall a rematch after the final bell of their thriller in Dubai.
      Thor said: “Understandably he seemed a bit angry still. He lost the fight so it’s understandable as well.
      “But I’m happy, if he wants the rematch I’ll take a rematch no problem. Would you guys like to see a rematch?”
      Thor really?
      Hafthor Bjorsson did not rule out fighting ‘proper’ boxer in just one year’s time following his win over Eddie Hall.
      The Game of Thrones star – nicknamed Thor – secured bragging rights over his strongman rival in Dubai.
      Bjornsson scored two knockdowns, and recovered from a standing eight count of his own, to win the super-heavyweight exhibition.
      He capped off two years worth of brutal boxing training – which saw him lose TEN STONE – by winning the fight of his life.
      And Thor refused to rule out a boxing return, teasing a move into the more traditional side of the sport.
      He told iFL TV: “I’m loving this journey. I’m still a beginner. I’d say I’m OK for a beginner, I’ve learned a lot in a short period of time.
      “So who knows where I’ll be in a year from now. How much can I improve in a year from now.
      “Maybe I’ll be able to fight proper guys. Who knows? The only thing stopping you is your mind and I believe I can go as far as I want.
      “And as long as I’m enjoying this journey, I’ll keep going.”

      Round six recap
      It was all to play for with one knockdown each heading into the final round, before Thor FLOORED Hall again with a combo.

      Gonna be Hall right
      Eddie Hall spoke out for the first time after defeat to Hafthor Bjornsson – which left him with a horror eye cut.
      Hall, 34, said on Instagram: “You know what, I can take things as a man. It is what it is, that’s boxing.
      “At the end of the day I’ve just fought the biggest man on the planet in a boxing match. I’d like to see anyone else get the balls and do that.
      “It’s been a hell of a journey; I’ve enjoyed it and hopefully there’s a rematch and we can do business again.
      “I want to wish everyone out there.. that you’re staying safe, sating positive and you keep moving forward in life.”

      Hall for it
      Martyn Ford was left ‘gutted’ after watching his friend Eddie Hall lose to Hafthor Bjornsson – but is ready for revenge.
      The Hollywood movie star was ringside at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in support of Hall.
      But the night ended in defeat for Britain’s ex-world’s strongest man with Bjornsson – nicknamed Thor – winning the six-round exhibition on points.
      Ford, 39, told iFL TV: “I’m just gutted for Eddie, as a friend. But I’ll tell you what, I’d definitely f***ing knock him out.
      “I’d take Thor, 100 per cent, 100 per cent. In my eyes, technically, he’s good, he’s been coached well.
      “But I’d take Thor, 100 per cent, I don’t know if I’d ‘knock him out’ but I’d win. I’d back myself, 100 per cent.”

      How the judges scored the fight
      The three ringside judges all scored the fight 57-54 in favour of The Mountain Thor.

      Latest – Eddie Hall has broken his silence
      Eddie Hall has broken his silence with a late night video posted on his Instagram.
      The Beast said: “You know what, I can take things as a man.
      “It is what it is, that is boxing. At the end of the day I’ve just fought the biggest man on the planet in a boxing match. I’d like to see anyone else get the balls and do that.
      “It’s been a hell of a journey; I’ve enjoyed it and hopefully there’s a rematch and we can do business again.”
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