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The International Scouting Service released their October rankings of the Top 30 draft eligible prospects and there was no change up top with Sam�Reinhart and Aaron Ekblad remaining No. Golden Tate Jersey On Sale .1 and No. 2 for another month. Centre for the Kootenay Ice, Reinhart has seven goals and 21 points in 10 games to start the season while Ekblad has seven points in nine games for the Barrie Colts. Michael Dal Collie made the first jump in the October rankings, moving from No. 6 to No. 3. Willie Nylander and Anton Karlsson round out the months Top 5. Osi Umenyiora Jersey On Sale . While Canadian women have stood on the Olympic podium in the sport, a Canadian man never has. Steven Jackson Jersey On Sale .C. -- The Charlotte Bobcats said head coach Steve Clifford underwent a successful procedure Friday to have two stents placed in his heart.RALEIGH, N.C. - Even as the lead quickly grew to four goals, Matt�Martin and the New York Islanders never felt comfortable. It turned out they needed each of those goals � plus one more � to finally beat the Carolina Hurricanes. Colin�McDonald had two goals and an assist, and Martin also scored twice for the New York Islanders, who held on for a 5-4 victory on Tuesday night. "You could just tell it was going to be a bit of a crazy game," Martin said. "Obviously, you never want to give up a 4-0 lead but we held on and found a way to win." McDonald scored both of his goals in New Yorks four-goal first period. Cal�Clutterbuck and Martin also scored in the burst that produced four goals in a span of 7:15. A combined 20 players had a point in this matchup of the bottom two teams in the Metropolitan Division. "Were not going to make the playoffs this year, but guys are fighting for jobs for next year," McDonald said. Andrei�Loktionov had a goal and an assist, Jeff�Skinner and Alexander�Semin each scored power-play goals, and Nathan�Gerbe added a goal for Carolina, which fell to 5-10 since the Olympic break. Cam�Ward stopped six shots but allowed three goals before he was replaced by Anton�Khudobin 6:12 in. Khudobin made 21 saves. Anders�Nilsson stopped 24 shots for the Islanders, who are 13-4-1 in their last 18 road games and have won three of four overall. Carolinas best chance to force overtime came when rookie Elias�Lindholm drew a holding penalty on Kevin Czuczman with 4:48 left. But Nilsson caught Semins knuckling wrister with 2:55 to play. This game was a fitting metaphor for an inconsistent season for the seventh-place Hurricanes � who were both bad enough to fall into a 4-0 hole against the last-place Islanders, yet good enough to come back. "The effort and the preparation hass got to be better," veteran defenceman Jay�Harrison said. Robert McClain Authentic. "Theres no excuse and theres no secret recipe. Thats the bottom line. Thats the only way." Skinner started the rally 9 seconds into a delay-of-game penalty on Johan�Sundstrom, snapping the puck past Nilsson at 12:38 of the first. Loktionov made it a two-goal game by beating the goalie from a tough angle 2:28 later. When Semin struck from the wing on another power play 2:42 into the second to make it 4-3, that deep deficit was nearly gone. Even after Martin put the Islanders up 5-3 with 3:03 left in the second with his second goal � a slick one-timer from between the circles � Gerbe made it a one-goal game 22 seconds later when he scored from a tight angle. It was a stark reversal to the start, when the Islanders built a four-goal lead in less than 11 minutes. But maybe not a surprise for Carolina � which has been outscored 61-37 in first periods this season. "You cant come out and spot a team four goals in the first period and think youre going to come back and win the hockey game," Carolina coach Kirk�Muller said. "Its a mystery why we come out so hesitant and afraid to play in the first period." McDonald stuffed the puck past Ward 3:39 in and then chased him when he made it 3-0 at 6:12. Khudobin took over, but by the time he lost track of the puck and Martin whacked it into an open net at 10:54, the Islanders appeared on their way to an easy win. "I think we knew they were going to come back and push back," Martin said. NOTES: D Thomas�Hickey and C Ryan�Strome had two assists apiece for New York. ... C Jordan�Staal had two assists for Carolina, which had won each of the previous three meetings by one goal. ... Before the game, the Hurricanes reassigned D Ryan�Murphy to their AHL affiliate in Charlotte. ' ' '

DUNEDIN, Florida � The Blue Jays fell to 4-4 in Grapefruit League play following a 6-4 loss to the Pirates on Wednesday afternoon. LeVeon Bell Pittsburgh Steelers . Brandon�Morrow allowed five runs on six hits over three innings. He struck out two, walked one and hit a batter. Edwin�Encarnacion had a two-out, bases loaded two-RBI double in the third inning. Here are some tidbits from camp: SANTOS DEALING WITH UNCERTAIN FUTURE Its an oft-repeated clich� but Sergio�Santos really is approaching life one day at a time. Almost traded during the offseason - according to reports he was nearly moved twice - he continues to hear his name in the rumour mill. "Its just been different or kind of out of the norm," said Santos. "I try to keep as level-minded of an outlook as I can. I try not to look too far ahead or try to think about things that I cant control." Santos almost became a Texas Ranger in late November but a three-team deal fell through. He went so far as to travel to Arlington to undergo a physical and to meet with Rangers officials. Hes not hung up on it. "Luckily I had some time to kind of let that sink in and its gone and Im done thinking about it," said Santos. Santos missed almost four months of last season due to surgery to remove bone spurs from his pitching elbow. In 24 appearances from his August 1 return onward, Santos posted a 1.69 ERA and a miniscule 0.516 WHIP over 21 1/3 innings. He limited opposing batters to a .327 OPS. Put simply, he was dominant. In the final guaranteed year of his deal and with year over year club options through 2017 ($6 million in 2015, $8 million in 2016, $8.75 million in 2017), hes a prime candidate to be moved because the bullpen is considered a position of strength and others, like Steve�Delabar, have years of club control remaining. "I think there are two sides that you can look at it, as other teams really want you or you can dwell on the fact that the team youre on is trying to trade you," said Santos. "At the end of the day Alex and everybody with the Blue Jays is trying to make the Blue Jays as good of a team as they can in 2014. "Whether Im in those plans or not, like I said thats not in my control. Would I like to be? Of course." JANSSEN PROGRESSING Closer Casey�Janssen, dealing with stiffness in the back of his pitching shoulder, played catch on Monday and woke up feeling good on Tuesday. Hes hoping to throw a bullpen session soon, although there isnt a schedule yet. "Just with yesterday, see how it is today and then I think we can start preparing a plan but weve got to crawl before we can walk here," said Janssen. "Well get there. Im not worried about the bullpens and stuff like that. All I really care about is feeling healthy and if Im healthy it comes back quick." Janssen was limited in Grapefruit League play last season as he recovered from shoulder surgery. He pitched successfully through pain for much of the year, notching a career high 34 saves, a 2.56 ERA and a 0.987 WHIP. NAVARRO, IZTURIS CONCERNED FOR FAMILY BACK HOME Former Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez died last March 5. On the one-year anniversary of his passing and with political unrest on the rise in their homeland, Blue Jays Dioner�Navarro and Maicer�Izturis spend a lot of time worrying about family. "Its so frustrating," said Navarro. "Thank God theyre doing all good. Theyve been through so much and its just sad and frustrating at the same time. I know if we keep on praying and staying strong, eventually things have to change." Navarro grew up a block away from the presidential residence in Caracas, known as Casa Blanca (White House). His parents, Frank and Rosa, and his youngest brother Darrel still live in the home. With a family of his own and business interests in the Tampa area, Navarro hasnt returned to Venezuela since 2009. He flies his family to the United States as often as possible. Izturis hails from Barquisimeto, about a four-hour drive from the capital, Caracas. His wife and children are with him and his brother, former Blue Jay Cesar, is in Kissimmee attending the Astros camp, but the rest of his family remains in the midst of the protests, which have fanned out across Venezuela. Its a chore just to get groceries. "You can go but they drive very quick," said Izturis. "You go to the supermarket and try to find out what you need. You need to go quick, boom, boom, and thats no life, you know?" Both players believe political change is coming to Venezuela. Theyre hoping it comes at limited cost. "Its such a beautiful country," said Navarro. "Weve got so much to offer to not only ourselves but to the world. We keep on praying God is going to do something really good for us." CAMP CUTS The Blue Jays trimmed their major league roster by three, to 55, by reassigning catchers Derrick Chung and Jack Murphy and pitcher Luis�Perez to minor league camp. Perez, who underwent Tommy John elbow surgery in August, 2012, suffered a setback in his recovery late last season and has experienced numbness in the pinky finger of his pitching hand this spring. Perez is out of options but is a certainty to begin the season on the disabled list. Hell continue his rehabilitation in minor league camp, which opened on Wednesday. Authentic William Gay Jersey .4 million contract extension. Garbutt has a career-high 18 points with 10 goals and eight assists in 46 games this season. L.C. Greenwood Pittsburgh Steelers . Sopoaga hit the upright with his first shot at goal from 15 metres. He then kicked nine goals in succession -- two conversions and seven penalties -- before being replaced in the 62nd minute, three points short of the Highlanders record for most points in a match. PHOENIX -- Everything was working for Madison�Bumgarner. The lanky left-hander pitched into the ninth inning in a dominant performance, leading the San Francisco Giants to a 4-1 victory against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday. "I feel like I got better as the game went on," Bumgarner said. "We were making pitches both sides of the plate, the ball down when we wanted to go down and when we wanted to go up. I felt pretty good all-around today." When Bumgarner took the mound for the ninth, the only hit he had allowed was an infield single that easily could have been an out. "Im not going to lie. I thought about it," Giants manager Bruce Bochy said. "That would have been a tough only hit to give up." Another infield hit ended Bumgarners outstanding day. He was charged with an unearned run to go along with seven strikeouts and two walks. "He was exceptional," Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson said. "Maybe the best I have ever seen him." Sergio�Romo gave up Martin�Prados RBI single but got his second save in two nights and his 22nd in 26 opportunities overall. Cody�Ross got Arizonas first hit when he reached on a dribbler to the left of the mound in the second. Bumgarner went to his right to get the ball, slid, and then stood up and threw low to first baseman Joaquin�Arias. "I just tried to get to it as soon as I could," Bumgarner said. "I thought sliding and picking it up and standing up would be the quickest to do it. I didnt want to air-mail it to Arias over there. I kind of threw it in the dirt and gave him a tough hop to get. Nine times out of 10 he comes up with that." Arizonas Paul�Goldschmidt called it "one of the better performances Ive seen." Diamondbacks rookie Mike Bolsinger (1-3) allowed a run and five hits in 7 2-3 innings. "He is good and that is why he will probably be an All-Star again this year,&quuot; Bolsinger said of Bumgarner. Mike Adams Jersey. . "All I could do is really keep the team in the game. I tried to and we just caught Bumgarner on one of his good days." San Francisco won two in a row against Arizona after losing six straight. It was the third victory in the last 12 games for the NL West-leading Giants, who play the next 10 at home. "It was time for us to start working our way out of this," Bumgarner said. "Everybodys still been in good spirits, a good attitude, so thats a big series to win for us." San Francisco led 1-0 through eight innings. The run scored when Tyler�Colvin doubled home Brandon�Crawford from first in the fifth inning. Colvin was out trying to stretch it to a triple on a superb relay throw by shortstop Didi�Gregorius. San Francisco tagged on three in the ninth, including Joe�Paniks run-scoring double for his first career RBI in his first major league start. Buster�Posey also doubled home a run and Crawford had an RBI single. In the Arizona ninth, pinch-hitter Jordan�Pacheco reached on an error by shortstop Crawford and Ender�Inciarte singled off the glove of third baseman Pablo�Sandoval. Bochy then pulled Bumgarner, who was trying for his third career complete game. Romo came on and gave up Prados hit, but Paul�Goldschmidt hit into a double play and Aaron�Hill struck out to end it. NOTES: The Giants have decided not to put OF Angel�Pagan on the DL, at least for now. He has missed the last six games with back problems. ... San Francisco returns home to face San Diego on Monday in the opener of a 10-game homestand. Matt�Cain (1-5, 4.52 ERA) goes for San Francisco against Andrew�Cashner (2-6, 2.46 ERA). ... The Diamondbacks have Monday off and begin a two-game interleague series against Cleveland on Tuesday. ... Diamondbacks rookie SS Chris�Owings missed his second straight game with a sore ankle. ' ' '

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indianapolis Colts have waived backup wide receiver LaVon�Brazill, one week after he was suspended for the 2014 season by the NFL for violating its substance-abuse policy. Emmitt Smith . Brazill was suspended for the first four games last season for violating the substance abuse policy. He said at the time it was for marijuana use. Brazill played in 10 games last season, finishing with 12 catches for 161 yards and two touchdowns. Over two seasons, including the playoffs, he had 30 catches for 491 yards and five touchdowns. He was drafted in the sixth round out of Ohio University in 2012. The Colts on Friday also signed free agent wide receiver Aaron Burks, a rookie from Boise State. Bob Lilly Jersey Dallas Cowboys . Gregor�Blanco doubled, singled and drove in three runs, and the surging San Francisco Giants beat the New York Mets 6-4 on Sunday for their fifth straight win. "Theres nothing I can complain about," manager Bruce Bochy said. The Giants completed their fourth sweep of the season. Brandon Weeden Jerseys . -- One game. After a season featuring more losses than wins, thats all that separates the New York Knicks and the final post-season spot in the weak Eastern Conference standings.TORONTO -- Canadian rugby coach Kieran Crowley will be able to rely on some veteran help next month at the IRB Americas Rugby Championship in Langford, B.C. The Oct. 11-19 tournament features sides from Canada, Argentina, the U.S. and Uruguay. Sanctioned by the IRB, its goal is to develop domestic-based players in the Americas. Canada was runner-up at last years ARC, defeating Uruguay 28-10 and the U.S. 23-3 before losing to unbeaten Argentina 28-9. While Crowley has selected some young players, he has also named such veterans as Ray Barkwill, Nick Blevins, Adam Kleeberger, Jamie Mackenzie, Mike Scholz, Andrew Tiedemann, Conor Trainor, Sean White and Doug Wooldridge. Uruguay, ranked 32st in the world, will be bringing its full national team this year, according to Crowley, with an eye to preparing for its World Cup qualification showdown next year with the 18th-ranked U.S. Eagles. Like Canada, the U.S., will be using a domestic side at the ARC although Crowley says it looks stronger than the one the Americans fielded last year. Argentina, ranked 10th in the world, will be bringing a developmental side with its top players currently involved in the ongoing Rugby Championship tournament. The Eagles Select XV includes capped players Shawn Pittman, Phil Tiel, Nick Wallace, Toby LEstrange and Tito Lamositele. The Canadian rugby schedule this fall also includes the Gold Coast Sevens in Australia Oct. 12-13 while the 15-man national team hosts the New Zealand Maori in Toronto on Nov. 3 before heading to Europe for tests in Georgia, Romania and Portugal. The Maori game in Toronto falls outside the IRBs international window so Crowley will not be able to summon all his overseas pros. But he hopes to have most back for the November tour. "Were still dealing with a couple (of clubs), trying to get players released," he said. The sevens circuit continues Nov. 29-30 in Dubai and Dec. 7-8 in South Africa. Crowley is dangling an ARC carrot for his 15-man squad. "Theres still probably a couple of positions open for the November tour which these guys get a chance to put up their hands for," he said. Depth is needed at prop and loose forward among other positions, he added. The Canadian ARC squad was picked after Crowley and his staff carefully watched this summers Canadian Rugby Championship.. Tony Romo Jerseys. It features eight members of the B.C. Bears and seven from the champion Ontario Blues, five from the Prairie Wolf Pack and three from The Rock. Young talent includes Jake Illnicki and Irish-born fullback Jack Fitzpatrick, who played for Canada in the Junior World Rugby Trophy. "The younger guys get a chance now to play at a higher level and see what its like," said Crowley. "Its a stepping stone for them." Not available for selection due to injury are Tom Dolezel, Jake Webster, and Sean Duke. Ontario Blues fly-half Liam Underwood is unavailable due to university commitments. --- Canada roster for IRB Americas Rugby Championship Kyle Baille, Castaway Wanderers, Charlottetown; Ray Barkwill, Niagara Wasps, Niagara Falls, Ont.; Nick Blevins, Calgary Hornets, Calgary; Alistair Clark, Baystreet RFC, Oakville, Ont.; Zac Coughlan, Swilers RFC, St. Johns, N.L.; Joe Dolesau, Burnaby Lake RC, Burnaby, B.C.; Jack Fitzpatrick, Dublin University Football Club, Dublin; Aaron Flagg, Abbotsford RFC, Abbotsford, B.C.; Kyle Gilmour, St. Albert Rugby Club, Edmonton; Micha Gorvorchin, Burnaby Lake RC, New Westminster, B.C.; Matt Heaton, SABRFC, Godmanchester, Que.; Jake Illnicki, Williams Lake Rustlers, Williams Lake, B.C.; Adam Kleeberger, Castaway Wanderers, White Rock, B.C.; Jamie Mackenzie, UVic Vikes, Oakville, Ont.; Duncan Maguire, St. Albert Rugby Club, St. Albert, Alta.; Ryan March, Abbotsford RFC, Abbotsford, B.C.; Adam McQueen, Calgary Hornets, Canmore, Alta.; Henry (Hank) McQueen, Balmy Beach, West Vancouver; Callum Morrison, UBCOC Ravens, Victoria; Mike Scholz, Castaway Wanderers, London, Ont.; Andrew Tiedemann, Castaway Wanderers, St. Albert, Alta.; Conor Trainor, UBCOB Ravens, Vancouver; Sean White, James Bay AA, Victoria; Jordan Wilson-Ross, James Bay AA, Alliston, Ont.; Doug Wooldridge, Lindsay RFC, Lindsay, Ont. Head Coach: Kieran Crowley Assistant Coach: Chris Silverthorn Scrum Coach: Mike Shelley Manager: Mark Winokur Performance Analyst: Calum Ramsay Strength and Conditioning Coach: Andy Evans 2013 IRB Americas Rugby Championship Schedule (all times ET) Oct. 11 U.S. vs. Argentina, 9 p.m. Canada vs. Uruguay, 11 p.m. Oct. 15 Argentina vs. Uruguay, 9 p.m. U.S. vs. Canada, 11 p.m. Oct. 19 Uruguay vs. U.S., 6 p.m. Argentina vs. Canada, 8 p.m. ' ' '

A new era will begin today for Toronto FC as they open the 2014 preseason against DC United in Bradenton, Florida. Bo Jackson Authentic Jersey .� Midfielder Michael Bradley, one of the teams new designated players, will make his debut, while striker Gilberto could see his first action for TFC in the contest. Bradley, a key member of the US mens national soccer team, is expected to bring stability to the Toronto FC midfield. The 26-year-old was acquired from Serie A side Roma in January for a reported $10 million transfer fee and reportedly will collect a $7.1 million salary. The New Jersey native played every minute of the 2010 World Cup for the United States. Gilberto, a 24-year-old Portuguese forward who is considered a pure goal scorer, was signed by the club in December.� ������������������������������������������������������� The third, and arguably biggest, designated player acquisition of the off-season, Jermain Defoe will not be available for the preseason opener as he remains on loan with Barclays Premier League side Tottenham until the end of February. In his second tour with Toronto FC, Canadian international player Dwayne De Rosario could also see his first action since rejoining the club in the off-season. De Rosario was reacquired by the team during the MLS re-entry draft and then signed to a new contract. The opposition for the preseason opener will be De Rosarios former club DC United, who, like Toronto FC, are looking to bounce back from a tough season. DC United finished with a 3-24-7 record last season and a league low 16 points. Toronto FC ended the season 6-17-11 in 2013, ninth in the Eastern Conference. Luke Appling White Sox Replic . Jayson�Werth and Denard�Span had three hits each for Washington, which had lost 6 of 7. Previously slumping, Washingtons offence has 14 runs and 30 hits in its last two games. Strasburg (4-4) allowed two unearned runs, though his error led to them, and six hits. Bill Melton White Sox Jersey . Hell be hard-pressed to match an unbeaten streak like this, though. Tanaka had his unbeaten regular-season run snapped at 42 starts, allowing a career-high four runs in six innings, and the Chicago Cubs beat the New York Yankees 6-1 on Tuesday night.MANCHESTER, England -- Sergio Agueros late hat trick rescued Manchester City from FA Cup humiliation at the hands of second-tier Watford, ushering the Premier League title favourites into the fifth round along with Liverpool and Everton on Saturday. The biggest shock of this seasons competition was on when Watford took a 2-0 lead after 30 minutes at Etihad Stadium, only for a remarkable Aguero-led comeback by City in the final half-hour. The Argentina striker produced clinical finishes in the 60th and 79th minutes to level the score before Aleksandar Kolarov put City in front in the 87th. Aguero completed his hat trick in injury time, keeping Manuel Pellegrinis side in contention for silverware on four fronts this season. "I wanted to change all of my players at halftime, all 11 of them," Pellegrini said. "The whole team was a disaster in the first half." There were no such worries for Liverpool, which beat second-tier Bournemouth 2-0 away courtesy of goals by Victor Moses and Daniel Sturridge, and Everton, which eased past third-tier Stevenage 4-0 largely thanks to Steven Naismiths first-half brace. Evertons victory was marred by a suspected broken left leg suffered by Coast Rica international Bryan Oviedo, which could rule him out of the World Cup this summer. Premier League teams Southampton, Cardiff, Swansea, Hull and Sunderland -- a 1-0 winner over non-league side Kidderminster -- also advanced but Crystal Palace, which is fighting relegation in the top flight, was eliminated after losing 2-1 at defending champion Wigan. With Watfords starting lineup costing 500,000 pounds ($825,000) and Citys bench alone worth 84 million pounds ($140 million), few gave the visitors a chance at the Etihad even though City fielded a weakened starting team ahead of Wednesdays Premier League match at Tottenham. Yet Watford, a 33-1 shot with British bookmakers to beat City, stunned home fans by going into a 21st-minute lead through Fernando Forestieri before Troy Deeney made it 2-0 after 30 minutes. By the time Aguero scored his first goal, City had four players up front and had resorted to an all-out attack mode. The strriker then produced another superb finish to equalize with 11 minutes left and Watfords hopes of a replay were dashed when its goalkeeper, Jonathan Bond, let Kolarovs shot dribble from his grasp into the net. Bo Jackson White Sox Replic. Aguero capped the fightback by heading in Jesus Navas cross for his 25th goal of the season, keeping up Citys average of four goals per home game this campaign. "People spoke about us losing 10-0 or 11-0 -- nobody gave us a chance," Deeney said. "This is one of the biggest teams in the world but we went out there with no fear." In 19 matches at the Etihad, only European champion Bayern Munich has left with a victory. City has won the other 18. Arsenal began the fourth round with a comfortable 4-0 win over Coventry on Friday and Liverpool fielded a full-strength side to also enjoy an easy victory, with Moses opening the scoring in the 26th minute. Luis Suarez set up that goal and also provided the assist for Sturridge, who ran onto the Uruguay strikers pass and slotted into the corner in the 60th. Sturridge has now scored in three straight matches since returning from nearly two months out through injury. "The tradition in the FA Cup for Liverpool is huge and we want to pay respect to the competition because we want to get to the final and win it if we can," Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers said. At Stevenage, Johnny Heitinga and Magaye Gueye were the other scorers for Everton, whose manager Roberto Martinez won the FA Cup with Wigan last season. The result was overshadowed, though, by the horrific-looking injury to Oviedo in the 14th minute. Oviedo was taken to hospital and Everton tweeted that he has a suspected broken leg. Non-league Kidderminsters run to the last 32 has been the feelgood story of this seasons competition but it came to an end at Sunderland, which was playing three days after beating Manchester United on penalties to reach the League Cup final against Man City. Charis Mavrias scored the only goal in the fifth minute. Southampton beat Yeovil 2-0, Swansea won 2-1 at Birmingham, Hull defeated Southend 2-0 and Cardiff was a 1-0 winner at Bolton. ' ' '

Pinehurst, NC (SportsNetwork. Donald Penn .com) - Defending champion Justin�Rose will play alongside Phil�Mickelson for the first two rounds of the U.S. Open starting next Thursday at Pinehurst. Also playing in the threesome is 2013 U.S. Amateur champion Matthew Fitzpatrick. They will start off the 10th tee at 7:51am�et on Thursday and from the first hole at 1:36pm et Friday. Rose broke through for his first major championship at Merion last year with a two-stroke victory over the six-time U.S. Open runner-up Mickelson. The Englishman has six top-10 finishes between the PGA and European Tours this season, but is coming off a missed cut last week at the Memorial. That was just the second time this season he has failed to make the cut in 13 starts. He has made four cuts in eight tries at the Open, and has three top-10s in those four made cuts. Mickelsons six runner-up finishes at the U.S. Open is an all-time high. The reigning British Open winner will complete the career grand slam with a victory. He has had an up-and-down season that includes seven top-20 finishes, including a share of second place at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, as well as three missed cuts and a pair of withdrawals. World No. 1 Adam�Scott will tee off on the first hole at 1:25 p.m. Thursday with a pair of other former Masters winners, Bubba�Watson and Charl�Schwartzel. They will start their second round on Friday at 7:40 a.m. at the 10th. The trio has combined to win each of the last four green jackets, with Watson following his 2012 title with a win earlier this year. One of the early marquee groups includes Sergio�Garcia, WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship winner Jason�Day and Brandt�Snedeker. All three will be seeking their first career major victory when they take the course at 7:18 a.m. Thursday from the first tee. Two groups later, Henrik�Stenson, Matt�Kuchar and Lee�Westwood will take the course at 7:29 a.m., and they will be followed soon after by two-time major winner and 2011 U.S. Open champion Rory�McIlroy, 2010 U.S. Open winner Graeme�McDowell and 2012 U.S. Open champ Webb�Simpson at 7:40 a.m. A trio of young talent starts from the 10th hole at 8:13 a.m., as Jordan Spieth, Rickie�Fowler and Hideki Matsuyama are grouped together. The highlight of the afternoon comes with reigning PGA Championship winner Jason�Dufner being paired with Keegan�Bradley and Martin�Kaymer. That group tees off the first hole at 1:47 p.m. Thursday and from the 10th at 8:02 a.m. Friday. The tournament kicks off at 6:45 a.m. Thursday with the groups of Daniel Berger, Brett Stegmaier and a player to be named later from the first tee and Henrik�Norlander, Lucas Bjerregaard and Rob Oppenheim from the 10th. LaMarr Woodley Jersey . -- Brian�Dawkins biggest contribution Sunday in the AFC wild card playoffs will be with his talking and not his tackling. Jim Plunkett . Collazo was proven correct as his final punch knocked out Victor Ortiz at 2:59 of the second round in a welterweight fight at the Barclays Center on Thursday night.Got a question on rule clarification, comments on rule enforcements or some memorable NHL stories? Kerry wants to answer your emails at cmonref@tsn.ca! Hi Kerry, My question to you is what is the going through a referees mind when a missed call or a wrong call results in a game winning goal? I refer back to last weeks game involving Edmonton and Toronto. There was a clear mistake made by the officials in overtime against Ryan�Nugent-Hopkins that resulted a turnover and a 3-on-1 break and a game-winning goal for Toronto. I am sure that the referees knew that they had messed up and would certainly have known after the fact. I am sure that during your career that must have occurred at least once. My question is how do you feel after and do you apologize for the error?�Chuck --- Hi Chuck: I messed up more than once during my career for sure; the most obvious being Wayne�Gretzkys missed high-stick on Doug�Gilmour in 1993. A referee never wants to affect the outcome of a game. That infamous missed call certainly affected the outcome of Game 6 of that Western Conference Final when Gretz scored the winning goal in OT immediately after play resumed. Instead, he should have been sitting in the penalty box with a double minor. The teams would have played 4-on-4 until Glenn Anderson served the balance of his boarding penalty. The Leafs would have then gone on the power play "if" neither team had scored to end the game at that point. We know one thing for certain; Wayne�Gretzky would not have scored the winner for at least four minutes! Tremendous uncertainty surrounded the aftermath of the missed infraction. When I asked "Killer" what had happened he said that Waynes follow-through of his shot struck him on the chin. I responded, "If thats the case a normal follow-through of a shot does not constitute a penalty!" Gilmour was okay with that understanding. Something just didnt sit right with me so I sought assistance from my two colleagues. Neither of the linesmen (Kevin Collins and Ron Finn) was able to confirm the high-stick which left me with a totally helpless feeling of uncertainty. My desire as the sole Referee in a game was to see everything. In this situation I had failed my objective miserably. It wasnt until the next day however, when I saw a replay of the incident that I became aware of the missed call. As a result, the sick feeling an official gets in the pit of their gut when they mess up wasnt instantaneous but delayed for 24 hours. That sick feeling didnt subside any time soon as I watched Gretzky light it up back in Toronto to eliminate the Leafs in Game 7. While the memory of the incident could never really be erased (nor should it) I had to learn from it and move forward no differently than a player mistake costs his team a game, a series or even a Stanley Cup. Rookie Steve Smiths errant bank shot off the back of Grant Fuhrs leg comes to mind. Denarius Moore Authentic Jersey. To his credit and personal strength Smitty bounced back and had a tremendous NHL career. One play or one call should not define a career. There were other times that I knew in the moment that I had blown a call. If I overreacted by signaling a phantom/marginal penalty I wanted to chew my arm off during the delay. At times such as this I instantly knew it was a bad call as much as the player I was sending to the box. Whenever the team captain approached me in protest of the bad call I would admit my mistake immediately. Inevitably the Captains next response was, "You owe us one" or "Better make one up!" While I would respond that "Two wrongs dont make a right" the most difficult challenge was always to fight human nature when you know you erred. I did my very best not to do that very thing - make the dreaded makeup call. I will tell you there were many times that I silently rooted for the success of a teams PK unit. Two minutes can seem like an eternity when your mouth feels like its full of dry sawdust. If the team was scored upon that sick-gut feeling intensified but had to be pushed aside but remaining ever hopeful through the ebb and flow the game would be clearly decided by the players. When an error has been made it is really important to bear down and keep your head in the moment and not dwell on the past mistake. You have to push negative thoughts out and allow them to pass through as opposed to dwelling on them. Sometimes that takes self-talk; almost in a running play-by-play dialogue to maintain focus and avoid missing yet another call. What I am attempting to share with you here is not only the reality of human failure (mistakes made) which we all know happen but more importantly how we respond in dealing with that failure through our individual human nature. Every Official truly cares about the game and gives their very best. Their desire for perfection is an impossible task to achieve yet every Official chases that illusive "perfect game." The most respected and proficient Referees are the ones that minimize their mistakes, admit to them when they occur but most importantly learn from them and move forward. There are always calls throughout a game, a season or a career that every Official wishes he had the opportunity to do over again. Perhaps the Refs in the Leafs-Oilers game would like another shot at viewing and responding as Cody�Franson punched Ryan�Nugent-Hopkins to the ice from behind in overtime resulting in a three-on-one and Dave�Bollands winning goal. Ill leave that call for them to wrestle with and perhaps learn from. Thanks for the thought-provoking question Chuck. Know that we cant alter history - just our response in the present. ' ' '

HOUSTON - The Los Angeles Angels protested Thursday nights game against Houston and then beat the Astros anyway. Authentic Adam Vinatieri Jersey . Mark�Trumbo hit a two-run double in the eighth inning before Alberto�Callaspos go-ahead sacrifice fly sent the Angels to a 6-5 victory in a game that lasted more than four hours. "It was huge," Trumbo said. "It was a draining game. It was over four hours. We battled our hearts out and (we) like the way it went, especially going into a new series. This is what were going to have to do. Theyre not going to be easy and if this is indicative of what were going to do, weve got to do it." The struggling Angels snapped a four-game skid and avoided an embarrassing sweep against last-place Houston, which has a payroll thats more than $100 million lower than Los Angeles ledger. The game took 4 hours, 7 minutes � making it the longest nine-inning contest in the majors this season, according to STATS. It also was the longest nine-inning game in Minute Maid Park history. Josh�Hamilton and Brendan�Harris homered for the Angels, who have won just three of their last 12 road games. The Angels felt lucky to escape with a win after leaving 16 on base and going 1 for 13 with runners in scoring position. "There arent many games youre going to win when you leave 16 guys on base," manager Mike Scioscia said. "Its a great character game for our guys. I feel good for them. The clubhouse feels good. We held on. We kept pressuring them and got some key hits as the game went on." The dispute came with two outs in the seventh inning when Astros reliever Wesley�Wright ran onto the mound and threw several warmup pitches before rookie manager Bo�Porter raced onto the field between the mound and home plate to stop him from throwing more. Hector�Ambriz soon jogged out of the bullpen and onto the mound, and Wright headed to the dugout. Scioscia ran onto the field and argued that Ambriz shouldnt be able to enter the game because Wright didnt face a batter. Scioscia remained on the field for several minutes while the umpires huddled and discussed the situation. "My contention was that the pitcher came in, had to face one batter," Scioscia said. "I protested, and were happy we won (the game)." Crew chief Fieldin Culbreth wouldnt say much about the situation. "Well, the only thing I can tell you is that all matters concerning protests are handled through the league office," he said. Pinch-hitter Luis�Jimenez was in the on-deck circle when Wright went to the mound, but was replaced by Scott�Cousins when Ambriz came on. The umps eventually allowed Ambriz (0-2) to remain in the game. He retired Cousins to end the inning. "Technically, Wesley came in to face the batter that was scheduled to hit, but he pinch-hit for the batter that was scheduled to hit, which my understanding of the rule means you can now bring in another pitcher to face the pinch-hitter," Porter said. Scioscia lodged an official protest that he said became moot when the Angels rallied to win. Trumbo tied it at 5 with a bases-loaded double down the right-field line with nobody out in the eighth, chasing Ambriz. He was replaced by Travis�Blackley, who intentionally walked Howie Kendrick with one out before Callaspos sacrifice fly. Garrett�Richards (2-3) pitched a scoreless seventh for the win and Ernesto�Frieri got five outs for his fifth save. Houston had runners at second and third with one out in the eighth, but the Astros came up empty after Matt�Dominguez struck out and pinch-hitter Carlos�Pena grounded out. Dominguez put Houston on top 5-3 in the sixth with a two-out, two-run single that chased starter Jason�Vargas. The left-hander, who was coming off consecutive complete games, yielded 10 hits and five runs in 5 2-3 innings. Jose�Altuve added three hits for Houston to raise his average to .345, and Chris�Carter and Brandon�Barnes each drove in a run for the Astros. Dominguez made three errors at third base after entering the game with one all season. Houston starter Lucas�Harrell yielded four hits and two runs, but walked six in five innings. Paul�Clemens replaced Harrell to start the sixth and Harris connected on his third pitch for a homer to centre that tied it 3-all. Hamilton, who broke a 20-game home run drought with a solo shot Wednesday, opened the second inning with a drive to the bullpen in centre field to make it 1-0. Dominguez tied it with an RBI single in the bottom half. NOTES: Scheduled starter Tommy�Hanson wont go for the Angels on Friday at the Chicago White Sox as he continues to deal with a recent death in his family. Scioscia said the team would announce a replacement Friday. ... Los Angeles reliever Scott�Downs left in the eighth with a right foot injury and Scioscia said after the game that it was very sore. ... Angels shortstop Erick�Aybar left in the fourth because of tightness in his right hamstring. He was replaced by Harris. Aybar went 0 for 3, ending an 11-game hitting streak. ... Chris�Iannetta walked a career-high four times. ... Los Angeles reliever Ryan�Madson, who missed last season after Tommy John surgery, threw 21 pitches in a camp game at extended spring training. Scioscia said Madson will probably pitch in two games there before moving to the Class-A California League to continue his work. "His stuff looked good, so its a first step," Scioscia said. Madson is scheduled to throw again on Saturday. Coby Fleener Jersey .m. Columbus, OH (Sports Network) - Seattle Sounders FC hopes to rebound from a mid-week loss at D.C. United when it travels to Columbus for a Major League Soccer clash with the Crew on Saturday. Andrew Luck Jersey . -- Having played six seasons with the Kings, Kevin�Martin is very comfortable at Sleep Train Arena in Sacramento.LONDON -- Chelsea has posted annual losses of more than $80 million but the Premier League club remains confident of complying with UEFAs Financial Fair Play rules. The club slipped back into the red a year after making a profit for the first time since Russian billionaire owner Roman Abramovichs takeover in 2003. Chelsea lost 49.4 million pounds ($81.7 million) in the year to June 30, after making a profit of 1.4 million pounds ($2.3 million) in 2011-12. But UEFA, the governing body for European football, allows unlimited investment on infrastructure and youth development, which Chelsea believes accounted for around 15 million pounds ($25 million) in spending in 2012-13. UEFA is allowing losses of up to 45 million euros ($62 million) in the first FFP monitoring period -- 2011-2013 -- without the risk of being barred from European competitions. UEFA wants clubs to move toward breaking even on their football-related activities, and will be preparing in March and April to punish the first clubs for FFP breaches. "We will meet the stipulations set down by UEFA in their first assessment period," Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck said Tuesday in a statement giving a partial breakdown of financial results. "And by our own analysis we are progressing from a commercial viewpoint as well as continuing to add trophies to our collection, which we never lose sight of as our most important goal." The 2011-12 profit of 1.4 million pounds ($2.3 mmillion) came on the back of generating around 90 million pounds ($149 million) from the transfer market and a successful Champions League campaign. Authentic Matt Hasselbeck Jersey. But Chelseas UEFA income was hit despite winning the Europa League in May because the team was knocked out of the more lucrative Champions League at the group stage. So, although Chelsea posted a record turnover of 255.8 million pounds ($423 million) in 2012-13, it only rose by 100,000 pounds ($165,500). But commercial income grew 20 per cent year-on-year to 79.6 million pounds ($132 million), and there should be a more significant uplift in 2013-14 when the first year of a 300 million-pound ($497-million), 10-year contract extension with kit maker Adidas kicks in. Chelsea has also advanced beyond the Champions League group stage this season and is third in the Premier League, two points behind leader Arsenal. "For Chelsea FC to achieve a record level of turnover despite our first group-stage elimination from the Champions League shows we have structured our business and are growing in the correct way for long-term stability," chief executive Ron Gourlay said. "Our philosophy is we build upon success on the pitch and although in these financial results we havent repeated the sizeable profits made the previous year from player transfers, we believe the age profile of the existing squad means we will benefit from that investment for many years to come." ' ' '

SAN FRANCISCO -- Gregor�Blanco supplied the speed. Shawn Kelley Shirts . Hunter�Pence, Michael�Morse and Brandon�Crawford provided the pop. And on a warm, windless afternoon along the bay, AT&T Park played awfully small for the Giants. Pence, Morse and Crawford homered as Blanco accomplished a rare feat on the bases, powering San Francisco past the Atlanta Braves 10-4 on Wednesday. "Its always fun to score a lot of runs," Crawford said. Blanco became the fourth player for San Francisco to steal three bases and score three runs in a game. Bobby Bonds, Kevin Mitchell and Darren�Lewis are the others. "He wreaked havoc," Giants manager Bruce Bochy said. Blanco, best known for his defence during the 2012 World Series, had struggled most of the season. But with centre fielder Angel�Pagan given a day off to rest his sore right knee, Blanco got back to doing what he does best: getting on base and being aggressive. "Thats the kind of player I am. Thats how I can be every single day," said Blanco, who singled and walked twice from the leadoff spot. "I just was out of my game a little bit and I just reminded myself, This is who you are. This is the kind of player you should be." The scoring surge gave Madison�Bumgarner (5-3) more than enough room for error. Bumgarner allowed four runs and five hits in five innings, striking out five and walking one. Three relievers kept the Braves scoreless over the final four innings as the Giants continued to dominate the matchup of NL division leaders. San Francisco finished 5-1 against Atlanta this season. "The offence picked me up today big time," Bumgarner said. Julio�Teheran (2-3) lasted only 3 1-3 innings for the Braves. He gave up five runs -- four earned -- and seven hits in his second loss to the Giants this season. "I had a hard time with my grip here and in Los Angeles," Teheran said. "I was trying to find a way to get through it. Its not an excuse. Its this type of weather. I had a hard time." The Giants totalled 15 hits and six walks in an all-around display of offence. Pence finished with four hits and three RBIs, Crawford collected three hits and three RBIs, and Morse tied the injured Brandon�Belt for the team lead with nine home runs. Freddie�Freeman and Chris�Johnson hit RBI doubles to give the Braves a 2-0 lead in the first. The Giants responded in the bottom half, scoring three runs, sending nine batters to the plate and forcing Teheran to throw 41 pitches. Blanco extended San Franciscos lead to 4-2 when he walked leading off the second, stole second and third and scored after catcher Evan�Gattis sailed his throw to third into left field. The Braves had three extra-base hits in a two-run fourth capped by Andrelton�Simmons tying two-out triple just past the glove of a diving Blanco in right-centre. In the fifth, the Braves landed on the wrong side of the transfer rule, which has come under increased scrutiny this season with baseballs expanded replay. Second base umpire Ron Kulpa called out Tyler�Pastornicky on a forceout, though Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez argued that Brandon�Hicks never closed his glove before dropping the ball as he tried to throw to first for a double play. "If I had to do it over, I could have asked that (the umpires) get together and ask for help. Maybe someone saw it differently," Gonzalez said. Blanco added to his big day in the fifth with an RBI single off Alex�Wood, then stole second and scored on Pences two-out single. Morse stretched San Franciscos lead to 8-4, and Crawford added a two-run homer with the 66th "splash hit" in Giants history into McCovey Cove in the eighth. "I dont think there were any cheap homers," Pence said. NOTES: Giants 3B Pablo�Sandoval left the game in the sixth with a sore left big toe. He is expected to be in the lineup Thursday, Bochy said. ... Braves CF B.J.�Upton was ejected in the sixth after arguing with home plate umpire Lance Barrett following his third strikeout. ... Braves RF Jason�Heyward had the day off. ... RHP Matt�Cain (0-3, 4.25 ERA) starts for the Giants on Thursday in the opener of a four-game series against the Marlins. ... The Braves are off Thursday before beginning a three-game series at St. Louis on Friday. Carlos Beltran Jersey . -- After enjoying the chance to watch Toronto beat Anaheim, the San Jose Sharks took advantage of a tired Maple Leafs team to move closer to the Ducks in the standings. Mickey Mantle Jersey . The Denver Nuggets played as though they were already relaxing on a tropical beach. Love started practicing early for All-Star festivities, making six of 11 shots from 3-point range and totalling 32 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists to lead the Timberwolves to a 117-90 victory over the Nuggets on Wednesday night.TORONTO � Blue Jays manager John Gibbons is still waiting for his first win under Major League Baseballs new challenge system; the skipper is 0-3 in the regular season, 0-6 including Grapefruit League play. Still, hes a supporter. "I think in the long run it will be good," said Gibbons. Gibbons didnt challenge a play in Wednesday nights win over the Astros, which, upon further review, may have been overturned. Ryan�Goins was picked off first base in the sixth inning but it appeared first baseman Marc�Krauss glove swept the dirt and tagged Goins high on the shoulder after the runner had touched the bag. The Blue Jays didnt have access to all replay angles; the angles they had were inconclusive. Gibbons has previously expressed regret that the challenge system has sapped the intensity of manager/umpire arguments. Hes worried about the in-game delays and the effect on pace of play. Rather than just complaining, Gibbons proposes a solution. "Keep it the way it is but dont give the teams the benefit of being able to look at it behind the scenes," he said. "I think if, itd be like the old days, you could go out and argue if you think the guy missed it that bad you go out and argue. Of course theyre not going to look at it. This way, then they can say, Okay, you think I missed it that bad, check it out. I think what happens when you have the ability to look at it behind the scenes, you can go out there on every close play there is. "In a lot of ways youre guessing. I think that slows the game down. If youre that serious about a particular call and you think he missed it, roll the dice without the benefit of looking at it." Gibbons incorrectly challenged a call in the fifth inning of Thursday nights game against Houston when the replay system confirmed Melky�Cabrera was out on a bang-bang play at first base. WAGNERS LONG DAY Neil�Wagner threw two scoreless innings in Torontos 7-3 win over Houston on Wednesday night. It was the culmmination of a long day of travel for Wagner, who was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo. Roger Maris Shirts. Wagner was in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where the Bisons were getting ready to play the LeHigh Valley Ironpigs. He took an hour and a half taxi ride to the Philadelphia airport, flew to Toronto and arrived at the stadium 10 minutes before first pitch. "It was actually just kind of easy," said Wagner. "I just woke up, did my normal thing in the morning and then instead of going through the normal pre-game routine I was just travelling, got here and I was able to play a little catch." Wagner got his arm loose playing catch with left fielder Melky�Cabrera at the start of each defensive inning. Casey�Janssen and J.A.�Happ are both expected to come off the disabled list sooner rather than later, which will create a logjam in the bullpen. Wagner is in his final option year, the reason he got sent down last month, and knows he could again fall victim to the business of the game. "Options are the one thing for free in this game that you dont want," said Wagner. "I cant control having them, I cant give them to other people so I have them and if I get optioned against at some point, so be it. Just keep doing what I do and hopefully at some point, be back." DELABAR RESTS Reliever Steve�Delabar was in good humour one day after taking a line drive off the outside of his right leg, below the knee. The ball ricocheted to Edwin�Encarnacion at first base, who stepped on the bag for the easy out. "That was the plan," said Delabar. "When I came out of the bullpen they said, if you get hit with a line drive make sure your leg is angled." Delabar is using the RICE treatment method with the bruising: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. While Delabar wont pitch on Thursday, he doesnt expect to miss any time. "I could go, yes," said Delabar. "But I think theyre going to be cautious with it." ' ' '

WASHINGTON -- Drew�Gooden has signed his 10-day contract with the Washington Wizards. John Paxson Black Friday Jersey . The veteran forward joined the Wizards at Wednesdays practice and will be available for Thursdays game against the Toronto Raptors. Gooden agreed to the deal Tuesday. The Wizards were in need of frontcourt depth after losing forward Nene to a sprained left MCL. Nene is expected to be sidelined about six weeks. Gooden hasnt played since he was designated as an amnesty player by the Milwaukee Bucks last summer. He had two years and about $13.4 million remaining on his contact at the time. The 32-year-old Gooden has played for nine teams over 11 NBA seasons. Anthony Mason Cyber Monday Jersey . Ecclestone dismissed on Wednesday any clash between the series, after the top executive at Texas Motor Speedway called F1 "arrogant" for scheduling the United States Grand Prix in Austin on the same weekend that his track hosts NASCAR in Fort Worth. Martell Webster Cyber Monday Jersey . Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema scored two goals each Wednesday night in a 6-1 rout of Schalke in the first leg of their second-round matchup. "We played a very, very good match," Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said. "We got well into the match, scored two early goals and that opened the game and left us able to counter and to use the speed of our players. GREENSBORO, N.C. -- John Henson had a great seat on the North Carolina sideline to watch his teammates advance in the NCAA tournament. The question is how long the Tar Heels will have to win without him, not to mention if his sore left wrist will heal enough to make him a factor in March at all. Tyler Zeller had 17 points and 15 rebounds to help North Carolina beat Vermont 77-58 on Friday in its NCAA tournament opener despite playing without its shot-blocking and rebound-snatching starter. The top-seeded Tar Heels didnt turn in a rousing performance, but they had a danger-free afternoon and advanced to play Creighton on Sunday in the third round of the Midwest Regional. They also bought Henson another two days to recover. "We know hes either going to be with us or (were) without him," point guard Kendall Marshall said. "If hes in there, he can help us and thats great for our team. If hes not, we have other players who can step up." Against the 16th-seeded Catamounts (24-12), that meant another strong performance from freshman James Michael McAdoo starting in Hensons place. McAdoo shook off a poor shooting start and finished with a season-high 17 points to give Zeller some help in the paint, including a one-handed tip slam off a missed 3-pointer from Reggie Bullock that sent the home-state crowd wearing plenty of light blue into a roar. McAdoo also had consecutive three-point plays during the run that broke the game open after halftime. "I kind of got down on myself a little because my shot wasnt falling (early), but I was getting great shots," McAdoo said. "That was what the coaches kept saying. I really just tried to play myself into the game on the defensive end and then just be aggressive." While McAdoos surge helped the Tar Heels improve to 30-1 in NCAA tournament games played in their home state, they know that the question of Hensons return is becoming more urgent with each game. The 6-foot-10 junior -- who averages 14 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks -- was hurt during when he fell to the floor while being fouled during last weeks Atlantic Coast Conference tournament and missed the last two games in Atlanta. He had practiced this week and said he hoped to play Friday, but coach Roy Williamms didnt sound sure Thursday that Henson would be ready and the team announced about 90 minutes before tipoff he was out. Rodney Hood Black Friday Jersey. Williams said Henson looked better during a morning shootaround, including being able to palm the ball with his left hand, catch passes with both hands and make a couple of strong moves off the dribble. "I went to him and I said, John, it just doesnt look like youre comfortable," Williams said. "And he says, Coach, not really, but Im right there." Williams said the chances of Henson playing Sunday are "a little better than 50-50" considering his recent progress. Zeller shot just 4 for 9 from the floor but went 9 of 10 at the free throw line and was a rebound shy of a double-double by halftime. Harrison Barnes also finished with 14 points, while Marshall had 11 points and 10 assists for UNC. The Tar Heels shot just 42 per cent, but scored 24 points off 20 turnovers. North Carolina led by 12 at halftime before blowing the game open. After McAdoos three-point plays, fellow rookie P.J. Hairston followed with a 3-pointer, then Barnes added a three-point play that pushed North Carolinas lead to 60-37 with 8:12 left. Sandro Carissimo had 11 points for the Catamounts, who beat Lamar in one of Wednesdays First Four games. They arrived in Greensboro late Thursday afternoon and had little time to get acclimated to their surroundings before getting the unenviable challenge of facing a high seed playing about an hour from its own campus. "Its been an unbelievable ride and to have this opportunity to beat a very good Lamar team and to put ourselves in this situation was something that I dont think any of us have ever dreamed of," senior Matt Glass said. "So to be here in this atmosphere and have an opportunity to play one of the top teams in the country is very special and were all very humbled." The Catamounts shot 40 per cent and missed 15 of 18 3-point tries. Perhaps no Vermont player struggled more than leading scorer Four McGlynn, who came in averaging about 12 points off the bench. The freshman had 18 points against Lamar, but finished with just six against the Tar Heels on 2-for-13 shooting. He also missed all six of his shots from beyond the arc. ' ' '

MILWAUKEE -- Stephen�Strasburgs fastball was on, but the changeup was off. Ricky Jean Francois Jersey . Minus one pitch in his arsenal, the Washington Nationals ace got shelled for one of the worst outings of his career. Scooter�Gennett had a grand slam and five RBIs, Khris�Davis added a solo shot and the Milwaukee Brewers roughed up Strasburg in a 9-2 victory Wednesday. Strasburg (6-6) was tagged for eight hits and seven runs in 4 2-3 innings. Strasburg also allowed seven earned runs in a two-inning start on July 12, 2013, in an 8-3 loss to Miami. Strasburg said he was having issues with his mechanics that were causing hitters "to see the ball a lot better. ... Still trying to figure that out. It just doesnt feel the same, it doesnt look the same." Manager Matt Williams said Strasburg was commanding his fastball, but the changeup threw him off. Thats not good news against the aggressive Brewers, even with top hitters Ryan�Braun, Jonathan�Lucroy and Aramis�Ramirez all getting a day off. "So he couldnt go to it, he was missing with that," Williams said. "And then he got behind in the count and they took advantage of it. This team swings at fastballs and they hit them. If you get behind, you can get in trouble." Homer-prone starter Marco�Estrada (7-4) allowed just two hits and pitched effectively into the seventh for the Brewers, who bounced back a day after falling 4-2 in 16 innings to Washington. Estrada has given up a major league-high 24 homers, but didnt allow a homer Wednesday. Estradas only other outing without a homer was during a 6-1 loss to St. Louis on April 15. On Wednesday, fans showered him with a standing ovation after he got lifted in the seventh. "The way the game was going, Im sure everyone was really excited about it -- but to get some cheers in that game, it made me feel really good," Estrada said. Gennett turned on a 2-1 fastball for his first career grand slam and fifth homer of the season that landed on the concourse above right-centre field in the second for a 4-1 lead. Davis opened the bottom of the fourth with a no doubt-about-it shot above the "Goodwill" sign in left-centre for his team-high 14th homer to make it 5-2. Davis swung at a first-pitch fastball. "A guy like Strasburg, you dont want to get to two strikes off him," Davis said. "You want be aggressive and get him early." The Brewers bats broke out after scoring just two runs in 25 innings in the first two games of a series between NL division leaders. Rookie Taylor Hill, making his major-league debut, allowed two runs and five hits in 3 1/3 innings of relief. The benches did empty briefly after Carlos�Gomez slid through second base on second basemans Kevin�Frandsens relay on a double play to end the eighth inning. Gomez had reached after getting hit by a pitch. Shortstop Ian�Desmond took issue with the slide and exchanged words with Gomez. No punches were thrown and the teams returned to their dugouts. "I respect the way he plays the game, but I got no respect for that," Desmond said. "In a World Series game, you slide like that. In a seven-run differential game, theres no time for that. If youre going to defend that, Ive got no respect if you can defend that." Manager Ron Roenicke said it was a hard but clean slide. "You get hit with a ball, you get a little adrenaline going, and youre going to go in hard," the skipper said. NOTES: Nationals OF Bryce�Harper (left thumb) has joined Class AA Harrisburg for the next phase of his rehab stint for a left thumb injury. ... Williams said C Wilson�Ramos (right hamstring) could rejoin the team in time for the start of Thursdays four game series in Chicago against the Cubs. ... Doug�Fister (6-5) will start the opener of the Cubs series for Washington. Milwaukee opens a four-game set on Thursday at Miller Park with Wily�Peralta (8-5) taking the hill. Donald Thomas Indianapolis Colts . Sotnikova trailed the 2010 Olympic champion by just .28 points after the short program on Wednesday, but had a brilliant free skate on Thursday. She earned a top score of 149. Authentic Andrew Luck Jersey . The Lakers will also visit Cleveland and Philadelphia, have lost four in a row on the road and are 8-18 as the guest this season. They are 3-12 on the road against Western Conference opponents.WASHINGTON -- Alex�Ovechkin was back on the ice -- and he put the puck in the net, too. Guys such as Jason�Chimera, Mathieu�Perreault and Joel�Ward contributed goals. Goalie Michal�Neuvirth allowed only one. And lo and behold, the Washington Capitals actually managed to avoid falling behind early. Yes, the Capitals were at home, where they are a vastly different team. And yes, they were facing the lowly Montreal Canadiens. Still, what mattered most was that Washington began what could be a pivotal few days for the future of the franchise by beating Montreal 4-1 Friday night to snap a three-game losing streak. "Our guys try and win. They play hard most nights. We were due for one, maybe. We were due for a good hockey game," Capitals forward Brooks�Laich said. "And we got one at a good time." Given that the Capitals won only one of their past seven games, and four of their past 15 -- dropping them from first place to third in the Southeast Division, and to 10th in the Eastern Conference entering Friday -- they were in need of a strong performance. They delivered against Montreal, which has lost three games in a row, is in last place in the East and isnt exactly playing inspired hockey. "Taking penalties at bad times. The power plays ineffective. Its frustrating, for sure," Montreal forward Erik�Cole said. On Saturday, Washington plays at the Toronto Maple Leafs -- the teams are tied with 65 points, on the outside looking in at a playoff berth. And then on Monday, the NHL trade deadline arrives. Laich insisted that last part is far from his mind. "If we were 20 points up on everybody, then we would watch it a little bit," Laich said. "But weve got hockey games to win." Capitals general manager George McPhee still needs to decide whether he wants to be a buyer or a seller. McPhee already tried changing coaches this season, firing Bruce Boudreau -- whos found success jump-starting his new employer, the Anaheim Ducks -- and handing the team over to Dale Hunter. "Everybody wants to make their team better. But its somebody elses decision whos going to be traded, whos not," Ovechkin said. "If George is going to do something, I think its going to be better for our club." One thing Washington did better Friday was start welll. Arthur Jones Jersey. Some casual defence by the Canadiens allowed Chimera to send a pass across the ice to Perreault, who was pretty much left alone to make it 1-0 at 6:58. That ended a run of six consecutive games in which Washington trailed 1-0 -- in four of their previous five games, the Capitals fell behind 2-0. "We talked about it before the game," Neuvirth said. "We needed a good start." He made 30 saves, although he did allow the first goal Montreal has scored against Washington since March 15, 2011. Rene�Bourques short-handed breakaway goal 3:42 into the third period ended a drought of 260 minutes 14 seconds for the Canadiens against the Capitals, stretching over five games, including three shutouts. Bourques goal came after Ovechkin turned over the puck. "A stupid mistake," Ovechkin called it. He missed Washingtons previous game, at Ottawa on Wednesday, with a lower-body injury. As it is, the two-time MVP is having what might wind up as his worst NHL season, with only 25 goals and 21 assists so far. He went into Friday with all of four goals in the preceding month. But Ovechkins slapshot from the left circle off Dmitry�Orlovs pass got past goalie Carey�Price at 8:58 of the second period, while the official scoring for Chimeras breakaway goal still was being announced over the loudspeakers. Ovechkin dropped a knee to the ice and punched a glove to celebrate. "He felt good out there," Hunter said. Asked whether Alex the Great looked 100 per cent fit, Hunter replied: "Oh, yeah. Hes good." After the game, McPhee carried a bag of popcorn as he rode in an elevator from the press box down to the floor where the locker-rooms are. A reporter asked McPhee whether hed be willing to answer questions. McPhee smiled, shook his head, then grabbed a handful of popcorn and walked away. Should be an interesting few days coming up. NOTES: Bourque was with the Calgary Flames when he was suspended for five games after elbowing Capitals C Nicklas�Backstrom in the head Jan. 3. Backstrom hasnt played since. ... Washington RW Mike�Knuble was a healthy scratch for the fourth time in the past eight games, and D Roman�Hamrlik was held out for the second straight game. ... Wards empty-netter with 35.1 seconds left was his first goal since Jan. 7. ' ' '

Acapulco, Mexico (SportsNetwork. Julian Edelman Authentic Jersey .com) - Top-seeded Dominika Cibulkova defeated Urszula Radwanska 6-3, 6-4 in first-round action Tuesday at the Mexican Open tennis event. Only one seeded player fell on the red clay at the Fairmont Acapulco Princess, as Sharon Fichman downed fifth-seeded Yvonne Meusburger 6-1, 6-3. Second-seeded Eugenie Bouchard, third-seeded Kaia Kanepi and eighth-seeded Zhang Shuai all moved on, the latter two needing three sets to do so. Other wins came from Yanina Wickmayer, Victoria Duval, Aleksandra Wozniak, Julia Goerges, Caroline Garcia and Lara Arruabarrena. Sara Errani, who is not defending her title this week, beat Carla Suarez Navarro in last years final for a second straight championship in Acapulco. Rob Ninkovich Authentic Jersey . So on Friday, they went to work. The two-time Eastern Conference runner-ups announced they had signed three free agents -- backup big man Lavoy�Allen, swingman C. Kyle Arrington Authentic Jersey . -- Tyreke�Evans is still making the adjustment from point guard to small forward for the Sacramento Kings.(SportsNetwork.com) - The Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings are ready to put all the talk and hype surrounding their meeting at Dodger Stadium behind them. The two Pacific Division rivals kick start the NHLs "Stadium Series" on Saturday night when they complete a home-and-home series outside at Dodger Stadium. The clubs will meet for the second outdoor game of this NHL schedule. The Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings began the extended slate of games outside on Jan. 1 at Michigan Stadium, with the Leafs notching a 3-2 shootout victory in the Winter Classic. The success of previous versions of that event, as well as the Heritage Classic in Canada, prompted the NHL to expand its schedule of games outside. Saturdays game is the first of four in the "Stadium Series" as the New York Rangers will play the New Jersey Devils on Sunday afternoon at Yankee Stadium before returning to the famous grounds for a game against the New York Islanders on Wednesday. Later in the season, the Chicago Blackhawks and Pittsburgh Penguins will square off at Soldier Field in the Windy City on March 1 before the Vancouver Canucks and Ottawa Senators battle the following day in the Heritage Classic. That game will be played at BC Place, which features a retractable roof. Californias first ever outdoor NHL game is also the first played by the league in the U.S. west of the Mississippi River during the regular season. The Kings, though, have played outdoors before as they faced off against the Rangers in the parking lot of Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on Sept. 27, 1991 in a preseason game played despite an 85-degree temperature. Wayne�Gretzky had a goal in that game for Los Angeles. While this contest will be of larger scale and of more importance, it has also required a ton of attention for both teams. Anaheims Ryan�Getzlaf noted after a loss to Winnipeg on Wednesday that the outdoor game has caused a lot of distractions. Getzlafs words came after the Ducks lost their first game at home in regulation this season, but they bounced back on Thursday to beat the Kings 2-1 and improve to 21-1-2 as the hosting team this season. John Hannah Jersey. That ties the 2008-09 San Jose Sharks as the second-best home record through 24 games in NHL history, with both teams going 21-1-2 to trail only the Montreal Canadiens 1943-44 home start of 21-0-3. The King struck first on Thursday thanks to a first-period tally by Anze�Kopitar, but Dustin�Penner tied the contest on the power play with 6:09 to go in the second period before Patrick�Maroon notched the winning goal with 2:07 to play in the frame. Frederik�Andersen stopped 30 shots for the Ducks, who have won 20 of their last 23 games and lead the NHL with 81 points. That is nine more than the second-place Sharks and 17 up on the Kings, who lead Vancouver by just three points for the third and final automatic playoff bid in the division. "One game in January doesnt mean were a better team than them," said Ducks forward Ben�Lovejoy. "They played a great game tonight. We were one goal better than them, barely. Were two very evenly matched teams, and we need to bring it on Saturday in order to be successful." The Ducks will play five in a row at home after this game and have lost their last five games as the visitor in this series. The two clubs have split two meetings this season, with the Kings notching a 3-2 shootout win in Anaheim on Dec. 3, and Los Angeles has won eight of the previous 12 encounters overall. Jonathan�Quick made 19 saves for the Kings, who won the opener of a five-game road trip on Jan. 16 in St. Louis before dropping the final four games of the trek. "We came up short," Kopitar said. "Thats something we have to learn from. We cant just give up soft goals and easy goals." Quick is 13-6-2 with a 2.41 goals against average in 23 games during his career versus the Ducks, who are likely to go back to Jonas�Hiller in net tonight. Hiller has allowed six goals total in back-to-back losses after winning 14 straight and is 8-8-3 with a 2.43 GAA lifetime versus the Kings. ' ' '

CLEVELAND -- The scoreboard was lopsided. Willie Brown . The stat sheet looked worse. And after Detroit quarterback Matthew�Stafford and the rest of the Lions dragged themselves back to the locker room at halftime, there was only one thing to do. "Press the reset button," wide receiver Kris�Durham said. Starting fresh after being dominated by Cleveland in the first half, Stafford threw three of his four touchdown passes after halftime, rallying Detroit to a 31-17 win over the Browns on Sunday. The Lions (4-2) outscored the Browns 24-0 in the second half, sealing their win when Stafford hooked up with rookie tight end Joseph�Fauria with 2:01 left. The 6-foot-7 Fauria caught three TD passes for the Lions, who played like a completely different team in the second half after leaving the field down 17-7 and looking listless, lifeless and destined for a second straight loss. "We werent playing our best," Lions coach Jim Schwartz said of his teams first-half struggles. "The players knew it. We came out in the second half and started to hit on all cylinders." The Browns (3-3) had their chances at a comeback end when quarterback Brandon�Weedens baffling shovel pass with 4:36 left was intercepted by Lions linebacker DeAndre�Levy. "Its a bone-headed play," Weeden said. Lions running back Reggie�Bush finished with 135 total yards, 121 in the second half. At halftime, Bush had touched the ball just seven times. But Stafford went to the versatile back whenever he needed a big play and Bush, taking advantage of mismatches against slower Cleveland linebackers, had a 39-yard run in the third and caught an 18-yard TD pass. "Hes not a dual threat or triple threat, hes a quadruple threat," Fauria said of Bush. "He does everything." Stafford finished 25 of 43 for 248 yards. He completed eight passes to Durham, who took over as Detroits primary target with superstar Calvin�Johnson not himself because of a balky right knee. Johnson, who missed last weeks loss at Green Bay, had just three catches for 25 yards, but the Browns were forced to keep a watchful eye on "Megatron" at all times. Weeden, making his first start since Week 2, finished 26 of 43 for 292 yards, but will be remembered for his ill-advised pass when Cleveland was driving for a possible tying touchdown. Trailing 24-17 and at Detroits 44 with a first down, Weeden was pressured by defensive tackle C.J.�Mosley, who had his hand around the quarterbacks left ankle. But instead of throwing the ball away or taking a sack, Weeden tried to pitch the ball over fullback Chris�Ogbonnayas head but it was picked off by Levy. It was another poor decision by Weeden, the second-year QB thrust back into the lineup after Brian�Hoyer sustained a season-ending knee injury on Oct. 3. "Anytime you try underhand stuff bad things happen," Weeden said. Stafford, on the other hand, made all the right moves in the second half. He was 15 of 21 for 165 yards and the three TDs in the final 30 minutes. At halftime, Lions coaches had their say and Durham said starting Stephen�Tulloch addressed the team. "He got up in front of us and said a few words that he needed to say like a team leader would," Durham said. "I think it got us fired up and ready to go for the second half." So what did Tulloch say? "Team stuff," Durham said. It was certainly team stuff by the Lions in the second half as their defence stiffened. The Browns, who had piled up 115 yards rushing in the first, were limited to 6 total yards and no first downs in the third quarter. Cleveland gained 145 total yards after halftime, 72 after the Lions built a 14-point lead. Faurias 23-yard TD in the fourth period gave the Lions a 21-17 lead. Fauria got behind linebacker Craig�Robertson and made a leaping catch in traffic before celebrating with a dunk over the goal post. Fauria has seven receptions this season, four for TDs. "First of all, hes tall," Schwartz said of Fauria, an undrafted free agent from UCLA. "But there are a lot of tall guys who arent good football players." Weeden threw two short TD passes and Billy�Cundiff kicked a 40-yard field goal as the Browns, using a balanced attack, scored 17 unanswered points in the second quarter to build their halftime lead. Lyle Alzado Jersey . -- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are making a case for saving coach Greg Schianos job with a strong second-half turnaround. Otis Sistrunk . PAUL, Minn.MOOSE JAW, Sask. -- Sam Reinhart scored his 28th goal of the season, then added his 29th into an empty net with 58 seconds to go to lead the Kootenay Ice to a 3-1 win over the Moose Jaw Warriors in Western Hockey League action on Tuesday. Jaedon Descheneau had a goal and an assist to round out the offence for Kootenay (31-21-4). Torin White replied with the lone goal for the Warriors (14-33-8), who have lost two in a row. Ice goaltender Mackenzie Skapski made 34 saves to pick up the victory. Moose Jaws Justin Paulic stopped 35 shots in the losing effort. --- HITMEN 7 RAIDERS 2 CALGARY -- Brady Brassart scored two goals and assisted on two more as the Hitmen thrashed the Raiders. Jake Virtanen had two goals and an assist for Calgary (35-15-6), while Pavel Padakin, Adam Tambellini and Joe Mahonn also scored. Menelik Watson. Connor Rankin chipped in with four assists. Sawyer Lange and Josh Morrissey scored for Prince Albert (25-26-3), who were outshot 36-23. Mack Shields turned aside 21 of the Raiders shots to pick up the victory. His counterpart, Cole Cheveldave, made 29 saves in defeat. --- TIGERS 6 WHEAT KINGS 1 MEDICINE HAT, Alta. -- Miles Koules had a four-point night with two goals and two assists to lead the Tigers over the Wheat Kings. Anthony Ast also scored two, and Steven Owre and Curtis Valke chipped in with singles for Medicine Hat (33-20-3). Richar Nejezchleb had the lone goal for Brandon (28-22-6), who has dropped its last two contests. Tigers goalie Marek Langhammer stopped 20 shots. Curtis Honey took the loss for the Wheat Kings after making 29 saves. ' ' '

BOSTON -- Pitching, patience and the Atlanta Braves are bringing the Boston Red Sox back from their longest losing streak in 20 years. Lance Alworth . The defending World Series champions hope that three straight wins after 10 consecutive losses are just the start of their resurgence. John�Lackey pitched neatly into the seventh inning and the Red Sox beat the Braves for the third straight day, 4-0 Wednesday night. "Were not looking too far ahead," Lackey said. "You cant make up 10 games in one day. Youve just got to keep grinding at it." On Tuesday night, the Red Sox won 6-3 in Atlanta as Jon�Lester allowed three runs in six innings and broke a two-game personal losing streak. Lackey (6-3) got his turn and kept his stingy season going, giving up eight hits and no walks while striking out nine in 6 1-3 innings. He has permitted two runs or less in eight of his 12 starts. "Im going out there and trying to compete, trying to pitch the best I could every five days, regardless of whats going on," Lackey said. "As a starter, you only get 30-something chances a year, so youve got to respect those and take full advantage of them." The Red Sox honoured Manny�Ramirez, Pedro�Martinez, Curt�Schilling and other members of their 2004 World Series championship team before the game then put on another winning performance at Fenway Park. Jackie Bradley Jr., A.J.�Pierzynski and Jonny�Gomes each had had two hits and an RBI as the Red Sox extended their mastery over the Braves. Boston is 18-6 since 2005 against Atlanta. Lackeys performance, "on the heels of what weve come off of (was) much needed," Boston manager John Farrell said. "When you look at the last two nights, both John�Lackey and Jon�Lester have done an excellent job of getting deep in the game." Lackey combined with three relievers for Bostons first shutout of the season. He allowed more than one runner in just two innings and just one past second. "If you throw strikes, you have a tendency to get any hitters aggressive and you can expand" the strike zone, Atlanta manager Fredi Gonzalez said. "We got nine hits, left all kinds of people on base. We just couldnt get that next one." Gavin�Floyd (0-2) gave up two runs in five innings and took his first career loss against the Red Sox after seven wins. He is 3-1 at Fenway Park. Boston went ahead 1-0 in the second inning when Gomes led off with a single and kept going to second on a throwing error by shortstop Ramiro�Pena. "You just have to look past those things when those things happen and hope things will turn around," Floyd said. They didnt. Gomes took third on a wild pitch before Grady�Sizemore walked, and scored when Daniel�Nava grounded into a double play. The Red Sox added a run in the third on a double by Xander�Bogaerts, one of his three hits, and singles by David�Ortiz and Pierzynski. Boston made it 3-0 in the sixth against Alex�Wood when Gomes walked, took second on a single by Sizemore and scored on a double by Bradley. In Tuesday nights win, Bradley hit a two-run single in a four-run seventh when Boston took the lead. The Red Sox reached Wood for another run in the seventh on an RBI single by Gomes. In each of his first six innings, Lackey had at least one strikeout and didnt allow a runner past second. He retired the first hitter in the seventh then allowed singles to Tommy La Stella and Pena that put runners at first and third. Lackey left after throwing 105 pitches. Chris�Capuano retired Jason�Heyward on a groundout as the runners advanced to second and third. Heywards bat broke and Capuano fell on his back as he just avoided being hit by a broke piece. Capuano walked B.J.�Upton, loading the bases, before getting Freddie�Freeman to end the threat with a grounder. Junichi�Tazawa and Craig�Breslow completed the victory with one scoreless inning each. NOTES: More than 30 members of the 2004 Red Sox attended the pregame ceremony. ... Atlanta C Evan�Gattis returned to the starting lineup after missing Tuesday nights loss when he strained his right wrist during batting practice. ... Braves SS Andrelton�Simmons missed the game after leaving Tuesday nights loss with an inflamed right ankle. ... Atlanta 2B La Stella made his major league debut by going 2 for 4. ... Bostons Jake�Peavy (1-2) pitches the finale of the two-game series against Mike�Minor (2-3) on Thursday night. Corey Liuget Authentic Jersey . The story of the scoreless first period was Hurricanes goaltender Cam�Ward, as the Jets outshot the Hurricanes 13-6 and had a number of grade �A� scoring chances, the best off the stick of Bryan�Little. Nick Novak Authentic Jersey .J. -- Thierry Henry and Lloyd Sam scored second-half goals to give the New York Red Bulls their first win of the season, 2-1 over the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday night. MANCHESTER, England -- Manchester City smashed through the 100-goal barrier in the Premier League with a 4-0 win over Aston Villa on Wednesday that moved the team two points clear with a game left and within touching distance of a second title in three years. City turned a match gripped with tension into a procession with four goals in the final 26 minutes, with Edin Dzekos double ending Villas stubborn resistance and Yaya Toures spectacular solo goal completing the scoring in injury time. A draw at home to West Ham on Sunday will be enough for City to settle a thrilling title race, with only Liverpool capable of stopping them. Chelsea, in third place, has been knocked out of contention. If City does go on to capture the championship, it will have done so in style under attack-minded coach Manuel Pellegrini -- just as was desired by the clubs Abu Dhabi owners. "In the way we play, I am very happy to win the title this way," said Pellegrini, speaking as if the Premier League trophy was already in Citys hands. "There are different ways to win titles -- I choose this one with attractive football ... Maybe you can win titles other ways. For me, the esthetic part is very important." City has been most pundits favourite the whole season but the team is doing it the hard way -- just like in 2012 when it won the title with two injury-time goals in its final match. Pellegrinis side has been top for just 11 days this season - compared to 59 for Liverpool, 64 for third-place Chelsea and 128 for fourth-place Arsenal. But City has hit form just as Liverpool has started to blunder, dropping five points in its last two games. City, by contrast, has won its last four matches and has a superior goal difference of 13 to Liverpool. Also Wednesday, Sunderland beat West Bromwich Albion 2-0 to guarantee another season in the Premier League and virtually relegate Norwich, which is three points behind West Brom but with a much inferior goal difference. There was a party atmosphere inside Etihad Stadium as City fans celebrated Toures brilliant goal, a powerful run through Villas defennce from inside his own half.David Johnson. For the first 63 minutes, however, it had been very different. Villas packed defence had held firm under constant pressure and it was looking like one of those nights for City. Pellegrini remained calm on the touchline, though, and the hosts didnt abandon their passing philosophy, eventually making the breakthrough in the 64th when full back Pablo Zabaleta -- on yet another raid down the right -- crossed for Dzeko to steer home from close range. The goal was greeted by an outpouring of relief by the home fans but Dzeko -- and Zabaleta for that matter -- werent finished. From another teasing centre by Zabaleta, Samir Nasris effort was saved by goalkeeper Brad Guzan but the ball landed at the feet of Dzeko, who dribbled the ball into the corner in the 72nd for his fifth goal in three games. Villa started to push forward and that played into Citys hands. Toure cut the ball back for substitute Stevan Jovetic to curl a low shot into the corner from the edge of the area in the 89th, before the Ivory Coast midfielder capped the win with an emphatic fourth, his 20th of the campaign. "An amazing amount of goals," Pellegrini said, who hailed Toure as "the absolute complete midfielder." Chelseas Frank Lampard is the only other central midfielder to score 20 or more goals in the Premier League era, in the 2009-10 season. A month ago, Sunderland manager Gus Poyet said it would be a "miracle" if his team stayed up but thats exactly what it has done after first-half goals by Jack Colback and Fabio Borini against West Brom. Sunderland has picked up 13 points from its last five matches -- including wins over Chelsea and Manchester United and a draw at City. "I dont know if you will see something similar ever again," said Poyet, whose team is only the second since the Premier League started in 1992 to be last at Christmas and stay up. Despite the loss, West Brom is effectively safe as it is three points clear of Norwich but with a goal difference 17 better ahead of Sundays final round of the season. ' ' '

LONDON -- A superb free kick from Oscar gave Chelsea a 1-0 win over Stoke in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Sunday while Fulham needed an equalizer 15 minutes from time to draw 1-1 with third-tier strugglers Sheffield United, who were down to 10 men. Kyle Orton Authentic Jersey . The Brazil midfielder scored in the 27th minute at Stamford Bridge with a curling 20-meter shot that ended in the top corner as Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic dived in vain. Dangerous on the break and dominant in midfield, Chelsea almost doubled its lead soon after when Oscar hit the post. Andre Schurrle also hit the woodwork after the interval with a shot from a tight angle as Chelsea kept creating the better chances. Samuel Etoo missed the target from close range after Ramires failed to convert Eden Hazards precise cross, but the home side had done just enough by the final whistle. Hugo Rodallega scored Fulhams equalizer with a low shot that spared his side more misery this season. The London club is just one point above the relegation zone in the Premier League standings. Chris Porter put the hosts ahead in the 31st minute as he diverted a shot past David Stockdale. But the League One club had Michael Doyle sent off for a kick at Muamer Tankovic early in the second half and could not hold on to its lead. Sheffield United manager Nigel Clough praised his players for their grit after the 1-1 draw but said the referees decision to send off his player was a bit harsh. "There was some sort of contact, whether it was enough to warrant a red card Im not sure," he said. Fulham manager Rene Meulensteen, whose priority is to keep his team in the Premier League next season, made 11 changes for the tie against a side that knocked out Aston Villa in the previous round but is facing a tough relegation battle in its division. On a waterlogged pitch, Sheffield United looked like it could hold on even after Doyles sending off, and even threatened to extend its lead when Ryan Flynn led a swift counterattack down the right only to see his low shot stopped by Stockdale. Both sides were denied penalties as Rodallega and Flynn appeared to be fouled in the area. Meulensteen admitted his side lacked the quality to prevail but was happy with his youngsters performance. "They gave it their all and got their noses in front," Meulensteen said. "If theres any positives to take from the game theres two things. Obviously were still in it, thats one, but the young boys we brought in did excellent." Mike Williams Jersey . The Kings have gone 6-0-3 over their last nine games despite having been held to three goals or fewer in eight of 10 contests this month. Los Angeles has failed to score more than two goals six times in that span. Robert Woods Authentic Jersey . Not exactly bursting with sentimental feelings, Matthew�Lombardi makes an odd return to the state of Tennessee on Thursday night.MIAMI - Best player. Best game of his career. LeBron�James clearly isnt ready to concede his MVP award to anyone yet. Dazzling from inside and out, James put on the best scoring show of his NBA life on Monday night, pouring in 61 points�- a career high and a franchise record�- as the Miami Heat beat the Charlotte Bobcats 124-107. It was the eighth straight win for the two-time defending champions, who are starting to roll as the playoffs get near. James made 22 of 33 shots from the field, including his first eight three-point attempts, on the way to his historic night. "The man above has given me some unbelievable abilities to play the game of basketball," James said. "I just try to take advantage of it every night. I got the trust of my teammates and my coaching staff to go in there and let it go." His career best had been 56 points, on March 20, 2005, for Cleveland against Toronto. Glen�Rice scored 56 to set the Heat record on April 15, 1995, against Orlando. James had 24 points at halftime, then added 25 in the third quarter. The record-breaker came with 5:46 left, when James spun through three defenders for a layup that fell as he tumbled to the court. "There was an efficiency to what he was doing," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "The rim looked like an ocean for him." Spoelstra walked into his postgame news conference with a confession: He nearly took James out after the third quarter. Good thing he thought better of that plan. "He was in a great groove, obviously," Spoelstra said. Al�Jefferson scored 38 points and grabbed 19 rebounds for the Bobcats, his huge night merely an afterthought. This was all about LeBron. He was hitting from everywhere, even a pull-up three-pointer from about 30 feet�- Spoelstra joked it was from 40�- late in the third quarter, as the crowd roared and the Heat bench jumped with joy. "Yeah, that was a designed play," Spoelstra deadpanned. "Weve been working on that one for a while." When James checked out with 1:24 left, the entire Heat roster met him near midcourt for high-fives and hugs, and the sellout crowd gave him a standing ovation. A second huge roar followed when he waved to the crowd, as "M-V-P" chants rained down. Charlotte has allowed the two biggest single-game scoring totals in the NBA this season. Carmelo�Anthony had 62 points for the New York Knicks against the Bobcats on JJan. Thurman Thomas. 24. Chris�Bosh scored 15 for the Heat, and Toney�Douglas added 10. Chris�Douglas-Roberts and Anthony�Tolliver each scored 12 for Charlotte. Miami was without guard Dwyane�Wade, who got a night off to rest. Spoelstra stressed theres been no setback for Wade, who has been on a knee-maintenance program throughout this season and is averaging 23.5 points on 62 per cent shooting since the All-Star break. Wade probably didnt mind sitting for this one. It gave him a courtside seat for the show. Actually, the night started as the Jefferson show, with the Charlotte big man pretty much doing whatever he wanted early. The Bobcats made seven of their first eight shots, and a layup by Jefferson gave Charlotte a 15-6 lead with 7:47 left in the opening quarter. By the end of the quarter, Charlottes lead was gone for good. James had 11 in the first quarter, after which Miami led by three, and added 13 more in the second. His 24-point first half was the highest-scoring opening 24 minutes for the four-time MVP in nearly a year, helping stake the Heat to a 60-54 lead at the break. Jefferson was up to 26 at that point. He didnt cool off much after halftime, either. It just didnt matter. There was no way he was keeping up with James, who had to listen to critics in recent weeks say that Kevin�Durants scoring for Oklahoma City this season shifted the balance of MVP power. Not so fast. James made three three-pointers in the first 7 minutes of the quarter�- he was 6 for 6 from beyond the arc at that point�- and when Charlotte bit on his head fake from the top of the key, James coolly found Douglas to set up another three. A tip-in by James followed not long afterward and just like that, the lead was up to 83-63. Charlotte scored the next six points, but any notion that the game was slipping from Miamis control was quickly extinguished. James scored the next six himself, a pair of three-point plays to restore the 20-point edge and give him 43 points, already a season high. All that was left to see was what hed finish with. And the answer was history. "I was happy I was able to make a few plays to help us win," James said. NOTES: Spoelstra won the Eastern Conference coach of the month award for February. Houstons Kevin McHale won in the Western Conference, and the Rockets host to Miami on Tuesday night. ... The Heat improved to 10-6 when Wade doesnt play. Theyre 33-8 when he does. ' ' '

DUNEDIN, New Zealand -- The Western Force hung on with only 13 men on the field for the last 10 minutes to beat the Highlanders 31-29 in Super Rugby on Saturday. Tyson Jackson Authentic . The Force had two men, including former Wallabies No. 8 Ben McCalman, in the sin-bin in the dying minutes of the match, but were able to resist a late Highlanders surge to post a four-try, bonus point win. The victory followed last weeks 32-7 win over the Melbourne Rebels, giving the Perth-based Force their first back-to-back wins since April 2011. Replacement flyhalf Hayden Parker scored a try for the Highlanders in the final minute but missed a wide-angled conversion which would have given the Dunedin-based side a draw. The Force have now won six of their eight games against the Highlanders since their admission to Super Rugby in 2006. The Force took a 21-16 lead at halftime after a first half in which the lead changed hands four times. Hooker Nathan Charles, flyhalf Sias Ebersohn and McCalman each scored tries to give the visitors the early advantage. Winger Junior Rasolea then added the fourth, bonus point try in the 56th minute, giving the Force a 31-16 lead which allowed them to weather the Highlanders rally in the last quarter. The home side fought back with tries by Parker and centre Malakai Fekitoa, but couldnt bridge the gap, even with the Force short on men. Ebersohn scored a brilliant try from an intercept and kicked five goals from five attempts -- four conversions and a penalty -- for a personal tally of 16 points. "Its going well," Force captain Matt Hodgson said. "I think were playing some good football now, starting games strong and, like you saw there, finishing it off with 13 men." The Force play the unbeaten defending champion Chiefs in their next match. The Highlanders were unable to put concerted pressure on the Force and defended poorly at times, allowing the visitors to pull away. "We probably didnt play quite the right footy in that first half," captain Ben Smith said. "We let in a couple of soft tries which came back to bite us a bit." ------ Western Force 31 (Nathan Charles, Sias Ebersohn, Ben McCalman, Junior Rasolea tries; Sias Ebersohn 4 conversions, penalty), Highlanders 29 (Shaun Treeby, Malakai Fekitoa, Hayden Parker tries; Lima Sopaga conversion, 4 penalties). HT: 21-16. Levine Toilolo Jersey . Madrid lost Cristiano Ronaldo to injury early in the match and failed to create any clear scoring chances after the Portugal forwards exit. His team now trails city and Champions League final rival Atletico Madrid by four points with two games to play. Joplo Bartu Jersey . Fifth-seeded Cilic gained his fourth title in Zagreb and became the third Croat overall to win at least 10 career titles. Cilic also lifted his career record in Zagreb to 22-4, winning 20 of his last 21 matches at the event.Each week, well take a look at some top performers from the CFL, with an eye to looking ahead to some matchups that could be favourable for TSN Fantasy Football, CFL Edition, presented by Joseph Abboud. Here are some of the best from Week 11 and players to watch for Week 12: TOP PERFORMERS Matt Nichols, QB, Edmonton (25-for-43, 333 YDS, 3 TD, 1 rush TD vs. Calgary) - With Mike Reilly nursing a thumb injury, Nichols stepped in and put up big numbers (particularly in the fourth quarter) in a losing effort against the Stampeders, connecting for more than 100 yards receiving with both Adarius Bowman and A.J. Guyton. Anthony Allen, RB Saskatchewan (136 YDS, 1 TD, 20 touches at Winnipeg) - There is competition for carries in Riderville, but Allen has done his part to earn the featured role, rushing for 236 yards and three touchdowns in the last three games. Hes now the third leading rusher in the league, behind only Nic Gribsky and Brandon Whitaker. Zach Collaros, QB, Hamilton (30-for-43, 338 YDS, 2 TD, 1 INT at Montreal) - Getting Collaros back in the lineup has certainly upgraded the Tiger-Cats attack, as hes passed for 655 yards and three touchdowns in two games since returning. Better quarterback play also has positive effects when it comes to the production of Hamiltons receiving corps. PLAYERS TO WATCH IN WEEK 12 Mossis Maddu, RB, Hamilton - Getting regular work with C. Dwight Lowery Authentic. J. Cable hurt, Madu has been a big part of the TiCats offence over the past couple weeks, gaining 258 yards from scrimmage, including 136 yards on 15 touches against Montreal last week. No touchdowns yet, but if the yards keep accruing, scores will come soon enough. Tino Sunseri, QB, Saskatchewan - Too soon to be handing out recommendations, since Sunseri has attempted 43 passes in his CFL career, but the Pittsburgh product is likely to get a chance at regular playing time with Darian Durant out. In limited action, Sunseri has completed 62.8% of his passes for 319 yards and a touchdown, but spot duty and a starting job are not the same thing, so it will be interesting to see if Sunseri can handle the spotlight. A.J. Guyton, SB, Edmonton - The first year CFL receiver, out of Central Florida, had the first 100-yard receiving game of his career against Calgary, catching six passes for 111 yards and a touchdown. If he gives the Eskimos an option to complement league-leading receiver Adarius Bowman in the passing game, then all the better for whichever quarterback is calling the shots. Scott Cullen can be reached at Scott.Cullen@bellmedia.ca�and followed on Twitter at http://twitter.com/tsnscottcullen. For more, check out TSN Fantasy on Facebook. 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LOS ANGELES, Calif. Jermaine Jones USA . - A judge ruled against Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling on Monday in his attempt to block the $2 billion sale of the Los Angeles Clippers to former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. In the tentative ruling, Superior Court Judge Michael Levanas sided with Sterlings estranged wife Shelly Sterling, who burst into tears when the ruling was announced. "I cant believe its over. I feel good," she said. Shelly Sterling negotiated the sale of the team after the 80-year-old billionaire was banned by the NBA for making offensive remarks about blacks. She sought approval from a probate judge for the deal she struck after removing her husband from the trust that owned the team when doctors found he had signs of Alzheimers disease and couldnt manage his affairs. Donald Sterling claimed his wife deceived him about the medical exams. He later revoked the trust after she negotiated the record-setting sales price and his lawyers argued that the move killed the deal. They said the case didnt belong in probate court because the trust had been dissolved. The ruling in Los Angeles County Superior Court is unlikely to put an end to the bizarre saga that began in April when a recording surfaced of Sterling scolding his young girlfriend for bringing black men to Clippers games. The NBA moved quickly to ban Sterling for life and fined him $2.5 million. Sterling was apologetic after the audio recording went viral, but his mea culpa backfired when he criticized Lakers great Magic Johnson, who had been photographed with Sterlings girlfriend, as a bad role model for kids because he had HIV. Sterling was roundly criticized from locker rooms to the Oval Office, where President Barack Obama called Sterlings remarks "incredibly offensive racist statements." With the NBA threatening to seize the team and auction it, Sterling initially gave his wife of 58 years permission to negotiate a sale but then refused to sign it. He said he would sue the league instead and then revoked the trust. The nonjury trial held over several weeks focused mainly on whether Shelly Sterling properly removed her husband as a trustee and whether her actions carried any weight after he revoked the trust. Donald Sterlings lawyers contended that his wife and her lawyers conspired to trick him and that the mental exams by two doctors were faulty. They said Sterling didnt know his competency as a trustee was being evaluated and that he showed no signs of incompetence on the witness stand. In combative testimony, Sterling said he would "never, ever sell" the team he bought in 1981 for about $12 million. He vowed to fight the NBA in court until the day he dies. Before taking the stand, he kissed his wife and then testified that he loved her. But the following day when she approached him in court he yelled, "get away from me, you pig!" Sterling, a lawyer who made a fortune as a landlord, has filed an antitrust lawsuit in federal court against the NBA and he sued his wife, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and the league in state court. Lawyers for Shelly Sterling and Ballmer had urged the judge to let the sale go through because it was in the best interest of the family trust. They said an auction was less likely to bring such a high price and that coach Doc Rivers, key players and sponsors were likely to walk if Donald Sterlings ownership was prolonged. "The trust has a golden bird in the hand," Shelly Sterlings lawyers wrote in court papers. "A sale of the Clippers for $2 billion is indisputably a bonanza for the Sterling family. Donalds strident opposition is motivated by only selfish considerations." Donald Sterling said he could get more for the team by also selling TV rights and through his $9 billion suit against the league. ___ AP Special Correspondent Linda Deutsch contributed to this story.Tim Howard USA Jersey . Doneil Henry, the man who scored Toronto FCs last-gasp game winner Saturday, knows that probably better than anyone. DaMarcus Beasley Jersey . Ecclestone dismissed on Wednesday any clash between the series, after the top executive at Texas Motor Speedway called F1 "arrogant" for scheduling the United States Grand Prix in Austin on the same weekend that his track hosts NASCAR in Fort Worth.TORONTO -- Randy Carlyle stepped up to the microphone and knew the question about Dave�Bollands status was coming. "Who?" Carlyle said with a laugh. "Bolly is actually having an assessment done right now and I would say that hes a probable for us for tonight." Before game time, probable became more than likely as the Leafs activated Bolland off long-term injured reserve, paving the way for his return Saturday night against the Montreal Canadiens. Bolland missed 56 straight games since suffering a severed tendon in the back of his left ankle Nov. 2 when he was cut by the skate blade of Canucks forward Zack�Kassian. "Hes progressed along over the last three weeks to a point where the doctors feel, medically, that hes close to 100 per cent ready," Carlyle said. To make room for Bolland and his cap hit, the Leafs sent winger Carter�Ashton to the AHLs Toronto Marlies early Saturday afternoon and then centre Peter�Holland later on. Bolland was not made available to speak to reporters Saturday. When he addressed his status after Fridays practice, the 27-year-old centre said that "hopefully something clicks" that allows him to feel ready to go. "A few weeks ago when you sort of had the little doubts of when this was going to go upwards and when things were going to start getting positive, we were getting a little doubtful," Bolland said. &quuot;But things are getting up there and things are working. Claudio Reyna USA. Its been the little things in the gym that have helped this get stronger." Now that he has the green light, its full speed ahead. Bolland is expected to centre the Leafs third line between Mason�Raymond and David�Clarkson. That would mean Bolland is likely not to play 19 minutes 30 seconds like he did in his final full game before getting injured, but Carlyle doesnt know if hed limit his ice time. "Well see how the game goes," Carlyle said. "Obviously youd like to get more people involved the hockey game. Everybody talks about a four-line game. Four lines this, four lines that but we havent been really went that mode. "Wed like to be able to do that on a more regular basis. With an addition of a Bolland it gives you a little bit more depth throughout your lineup with a veteran guy and it slots people more into where we envisioned them at the beginning of the year." The lineup the Leafs envisioned and had at the start of the year also included goaltender Jonathan�Bernier, but the Laval, Que., native wont be ready to dress against the Habs. Carlyle said Bernier is still experiencing problems relating to his groin injury. James�Reimer, who did not take part in the morning skate, will make his fourth straight start. Drew�MacIntyre is expected to serve as his backup. ' ' '

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The community all around the BJDs is vast. The largest English speaking discussion board on the internet, Den of Angels, has over Twenty,000 people. These forums are places to go over dolls, organize group meetings, and sell dolls and garments. They even arrange convention size meetings, just like the conventions that anime enthusiasts attend throughout the year. Members modify the look of their dolls and then provide them with names and use them as subjects in photography or even drawings which they then discuss through these towns.

Lolita fashion is actually inspired from the porcelain dolls on the very large level. It is important to note that when this Lolita style was endemic in Asia, all the stylization was over in such a way that the overall look will resemble a sweet and lovely seeking doll.

Doll designers discover joy within creating their particular masterpieces because they find pleasure in the innovative process. It's truly a work that rewards you inwardly particularly if you are enamored with the likes of ball jointed dolls. Specifically madeBJD clothing is also fun to personalize for kids since it allows them to choose among various outfits for set enjoy dates.

Many starting doll lovers frequently get overly enthusiastic by buying numerous sub-par dolls, when they should be centered on finding one high quality doll to buy. Too frequently, the acquisition associated with dolls of bad quality deplete cash that would be much more wisely spent elsewhere; special dolls or dolls within the absolute best situation will certainly draw greater appreciation and cost. In addition, utilizing this approach will make sure that your collection may be valued without overgrowing the amount of space dedicated to it. Doll accumulating is a long term pastime that may be best referred to as a convention versus any sprint; lovers ought to be discerning to seek out dolls which they enjoy and that other people may appreciate too.

Created in Last year JAMIEshow dolls is a effort between George, Jamie and Erina his two Chinese lovers. An avid and published digital photographer and person who owns a doll shop, George wanted the perfect muse for his pictures, JAMIEshow dolls were created out of this work. The perfect muse, along with superior entire body, perfect amounts and a resin made such as silk. Innovation in style has catapulted the company rapidly in two many years creating fresh and unique inclusions in the dolls such as rooted hairpiece caps. bjd doll Male dolls were released in 2010 and also since then there has been 15 diverse 16" BJD sculpts introduced 3 12" doll sculpts. Along with a type of shoes and also accessories as well as three Newspaper exclusives for FDQ, Haute Doll and also Doll reader publications,JAMIEshow dolls took off as quickly as they ended up.