中国通信在线--人脉圈话题

淘宝寿衣门

近日因不满差评给买家寄送寿衣在网上引起轩然大波的的卖家遭到处罚。昨日，淘宝网公布处罚消息，称该卖家的行为触犯了淘宝网有关规定，对其店铺给出搜索屏蔽、禁止上架新品等处罚。

　　 买家“网曝”收到寿衣

　　 5月11日，一位武汉女性在淘宝论坛发帖称，自己在淘宝购买一条裙子后对商品不满，与店铺沟通后亦没有达成一致，因此在5月7日给了该商品一个差评。8日，某个来自山东的ID在淘宝网购买一件小孩寿衣，收货人地址与姓名为上述武汉买家。

　　该买家收到寿衣后上淘宝论坛搜索，发现该山东ID的收藏中有一件与自己给出差评商品相同的裙子，因此认定寿衣是店主出于不满而购买并寄送的。

　　 淘宝认定存在恶意骚扰

　　阿里巴巴高级副总裁陶然昨日公布此事调查结果，称经过调查发现卖家确实存在恶意骚扰行为，根据淘宝网规则即日起对其实行包括店铺搜索屏蔽在内的多种限制处罚，持续时间12天。

　　而涉及的女消费者已为一钻买家，近3个月交易成功近200笔，近半年一共给出11个差评，评价内容核实都属于客观阐述，应不是恶意差评师。

　　陶然向本报记者透露，经技术手段确认，寿衣的确为上述卖家寄出，这一行为已违反了淘宝网有关“恶意骚扰”的规定，因此对卖家给出上述处罚。同样，对买家不是职业差评师的认定也有严格的技术鉴定结果，但技术细节均不便公开。

分析师称现有政策存在漏洞

　　独立电商分析师谢璞昨日表示，淘宝从成立之初，其政策制定方向即为尽最大可能保护消费者，因为在交易中，一般消费者是弱势群体，但在电商越来越激烈的竞争中，权益受到损害的消费者又可能影响商家的声誉与收入。

　　在这样的政策环境下，确实也存在一些消费者滥用权利、导致正当经营的商家有苦难言的情况。“但是，电商是个不断发展的新事物，无论是淘宝，还是其他电商从业者乃至政策制定者，都无法预料到所有的问题并提前予以规避。”

买家担忧：个人信息怎么办

　　在本次“寿衣事件”之前，媒体报道称也曾有卖家因对买家给出差评不满而给买家寄送粪便的恶意事情发生。

　　由于网上购物的物流配送需要，买家必须要向卖家提供纺织网高档织布机异纤清除机蒸纱机纺织加湿器棉花期货价格空气加湿器纺织企业大全棉花棉花期货棉纱价格涤纶全棉坯布针织面料防辐射面料环锭纺自己的真实地址和联系电话，因此一旦双方因为评价、售后等问题发生冲突，买家固然可以给出差评，卖家也可能利用掌握的买家信息进行报复。

　　一位淘宝买家昨日对新京报表示，自己五年来在淘宝上购物已经达到两钻级别，但从来不敢给卖家中评差评，充其量就是通过沟通交流要求对方退货，“我的地址和电话对方都有，要是闹翻了，发生点什么事不是因小失大吗。”

　　上述淘宝卖家表示，电子商务的特点就是要买家提供一些个人信息以提高便利性，“如果买家真的担心个人信息泄露，可以购买时留单位或住所附近便利店地址，电话留座机或代收人电话。这样能减少一些隐患”。

According to ESPNs Chris Mortensen,

Atlanta, GA (Sports Network) - The Atlanta Thrashers assigned right wing Nigel Dawes to Chicago of the American Hockey League on Friday. Julio Jones Jersey . The 25-year-old played in all six games for the club this season without registering a regulation point and posting a minus-six rating. However, the veteran did tally the game-winner in Atlantas 5-4 shootout victory against the Ducks on October 15. Over 205 career NHL contests, Dawes has notched 39 goals and 44 assists with the Rangers, Coyotes, Flames and Thrashers. 2012 Dallas Cowboys Nike Jersey . Tennessee linebacker Stephen Tulloch was fined $7,500, and Houston running back Arian Foster and cornerback Glover Quin were fined $5,000 each. New England defensive back Patrick Chung, Denver defensive end Ryan McBean, Carolina safety Sherrod Martin and Dallas nose tackle Jay Ratliff also were fined $5,000 each. Kevin Garnett Timberwolves Jersey .Y. -- Detroit Red Wings leading scorer Pavel Datsyuk is sitting out against the New York Islanders because of an undisclosed lower-body injury that doesnt appear to be serious. Dwyane Wade Jersey . According to ESPNs Chris Mortensen, Favre formally asked for his contractual release from the Packers in a letter was sent by Favres agent, James "Bus" Cook. Favre, who will be 39 in October, retired March 6 after a 17-year career. Andrew Bynum Jersey . Minutes after the previously winless Colts got their first win, 27-13 over Tennessee, team vice chairman Bill Polian said the four-time league MVP will not play this season though he has begun throwing to teammates at the team complex. Andrew Bynum Jersey .A. Dickey tries to follow up a spectacular outing this afternoon when the New York Mets try to salvage the finale of their three-game series with the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park. Paper cutting expert Wang Zhenzhu (R) from Yunchen city, North China’s Shanxi province shows her creative work, Jan 18, 2011. In two months, the 60-year-old artist has made more than 10 pieces of cut outs featuring local folk culture for the upcoming lunar New Year. Blake Griffin Jersey. [PhotoXinhua] Previous Page 1 2 3 4 Next Page Previous Page 1 2 3 4 Next Page Kobe Bryant Jersey. Tim Hudson (5-5) allowed two runs on seven hits while striking out four through six innings to earn the win, snapping an 0-3 streak over his previous five starts. Eric Hinske and Chipper Jones also homered for the Braves, who won their fourth straight game and sixth in their last eight tries. ´ ´ ´

New York won game one on Friday, 5-

TORONTO -- It rained in Toronto, but it didnt stop Usain Bolts reign in the 100m. Calvin Johnson Nike Jersey . On a rainy night at the Festival of Excellence, Bolt galloped to victory in front of a roaring crowd in 10 seconds flat, much slower than his world record time of 9.69. Shawn Crawford of the U.S. was second in 10.25, while Ivory Williams, also of the U.S., finished third in 10.28."It felt good," the world record holder told a crush of media after running his victory laps with local school children. The triple gold medallist at Beijing powered out of the blocks and used his long stride to distance himself from his competitors. There was never really a doubt about who would cross the line first. "I think I should have done a little bit better but for me, it was all right," Bolt said of his first 100m this season. "I went through it injury free so thats a good thing."The start of the evenings final event was heavy on drama, there were two faults - the second by Marvin Anderson of Jamaica, disqualifying him as per IAAF rule for a second false start from the field."Hes the most intimidating sprinter in the world," said Donovan Bailey, former Canadian Olympic gold medallist and 100m world record holder. "... A couple of the guys, theyre are just nervous and theyre trying to get a jump on him," Bailey said. "And you try any advantage you can. Hes going to beat you, but you try to do everything he can." Earlier in the evening, in the battle of Canadians in the 100m hurdles, Priscilla Lopes-Schliep of Whitby, Ont. powered through in 12.86 to edge out teammate Perdita Felicien of Pickering, Ont., who finished in was second in 12.88. A smiling Lopes-Schliep acknowleged the hollering Canadian crowd with a wave and a few fist pumps. Damu Cherry of the U.S., who beat Lopes-Schliep last week at the Prefontaine Classic, was third in 13.01. The rain began coming down around 7:15 and didnt let up, but the event still drew an energetic crowd. They roared for Canadian athletes but saved their loudest cheers for the 22-year-old Bolt. As soon as he appeared in a grey hoodie and started a few warm-up sprints on one of the tracks curves, the crowd was ecstatic. When the athlets set in their blocks hundreds of fans stood, cameras ready, for the perfect shot. Throughout the event across a fence from the tracks straightaway, a few hundred people are in a standing-room only area, where live hip hop and reggae music has been played steadily in the earlygoing, sometimes drowning out the event announcer. "Just looking at the crowd you can see its pretty much all Jamaicans so its just a great feeling," Bolt told TSN afterward. "The people have just been wonderful, so thanks for coming out and supporting me and I always try to do my best at all times." Kevin Garnett Jersey . New York won game one on Friday, 5-1, and sits 1 1/2 games behind first-place Atlanta in the NLs East Division. Baltimore, meanwhile, is dead last in the AL East, 22 games back of first-place Tampa Bay. Chris Carter belted a three-run homer and R.A. Dickey tossed seven solid innings in the win for the Mets. LeSean McCoy Jersey . -- Hall of Fame defenceman Bobby Orr led his team of Canadian Hockey League prospects to a 23-17 win over hockey commentator Don Cherrys squad in the NHL/CHL Top Prospects skills competition Tuesday. Elton Brand Jersey .C. -- Matt Cullen greeted the all-too-familiar question with an uncomfortable chuckle clearly rooted in disappointment: How have things gone this wrong this quickly for the Carolina Hurricanes? "I have no idea," the centre said Monday. Russell Westbrook Jersey . Volume of property sales may decline in the fourth quarter, but investments in the real estate market will keep growing, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) said in the report. The report did not distinguish between new home prices and second-hand house prices. DeMarcus Ware Jersey . Roger Federer of Switzerland holds the trophy during the Master Cup tennis tournament crowning ceremony of the year-end No. TORONTO - Les Maple Leafs de Toronto ont rappelé mardi lattaquant Joey Crabb de leur club-école de la Ligue américaine de hockey. ?gé de 27 ans, Crabb a disputé 34 parties pour lles Marlies de Toronto, marquant 11 buts, un sommet au sein du club-école torontois. Robert Griffin 3 Jersey. Rappelé par les Leafs le 30 novembre dernier, Crabb a disputé deux rencontres, amassant une aide. Kobe Bryant Jersey. The Knicks will announce the hiring of Walsh as their new president at a news conference, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press. ´ ´ ´

Green and Singh are both two-time winners

GREENBURGH, N. Matthew Stafford Jersey .Y. -- Carmelo Anthony hyperextended his left knee during practice Monday and the Knicks say his return is day to day. Anthony appeared to be hurt when he banged into another player while playing defence. He fell to the court and stayed down for a brief period before walking to the training room. The Knicks were having a full practice for only the second time after they were short-handed the first two days of training camp. Their pre-season opener is Saturday at New Jersey. Dwyane Wade Jersey . Raja Bell added 21 points and Boris Diaw 15 for the Bobcats, who have won three in a row. D.J. Augustin doled out eight assists in the win. Zach Randolph notched a game-best 33 points and nine rebounds for the Clippers, who have dropped five of seven overall. Michael Turner Jersey . Each citizen would receive 70 thousand MNT (48.4 dollars) starting from February, Damdin told reporters. 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The progress hasnt been exactly where we wanted it, Chicago coach Joel Quenneville said.Los Angeles, CA (Sports Network) - Kobe Bryant, bad back and all, scored 26 points, doled out seven assists, and grabbed six rebounds as the Los Angeles Lakers held off the Utah Jazz, 111-104, to take a three-to-two lead in their Western Conference semifinal series. Lamar Odom had 22 points and 11 rebounds for the Lakers, who will try to advance to the conference finals with a win in Utah. Game 6 is scheduled for Friday night in Salt Lake City. To do so, the Lakers will have to reverse the incredible string of home-court dominance in this round of the playoffs. The Lakers improved to 5-0 at home in playoffs, and, coupled with the Celtics win over the Cavaliers in Boston on Wednesday, home teams are a commanding 19-1 in the second round. Pau Gasol added 21 points, eight assists, and six boards for LA. Deron Williams scored 27 points and tallied 10 assists for the Jazz, who were always in striking distance, but never led. Carlos Boozer had 18 points and 12 boards on 6-of-16 shooting, and Mehmet Okur added 13 points and 13 boards for Utah. In the fourth quarter, as in the third, the Jazz were able to pull even with the Lakers, but couldnt edge in front. "Coming down the stretch we just couldnt seem to score, even though we got the ball inside. We had some opportunities," said Jazz head coach Jerry Sloan. The LA lead stood at 101-96 after two Derek Fisher free throws at the 2:43 mark, but Sasha Vujacic earned a technical foul for trash-talking Kyle Korver, and Korver sank the free throw to make it a four-point game. Williams then drained a three just before the shot clock expired to again pull the Jazz within one, at 101-100. Vujacic shot 1-for-11 on the night, 1-for-8 from behind the arc. "That was the best matchup I could get. I wasnt happy with how Sasha played, but I liked the matchup," said Lakers head coach Phil Jackson when asked why he stayed with Vujacic in the fourth quarter. Utah could never get the defensive stop it needed after cutting its deficit to one, however, and an Odom dunk put LA back up by three. An Okur putback made it 103-102 with 1:18 to play, but Gasol dropped in consecutive buckets, sandwiching Okurs miss on a wide-open three-point look. Gasols second basket, a putback of another Vujacic missed three, gave LA a 107-102 lead with 20.5 seconds left. Okur had him boxeed out on the play, but appeared to dive and draw a foul, giving Gasol a clean shot at the rebound. Chauncey Billups Jersey. "Gasol was wide open, I dont know what happened," said Sloan. "Ill have to see it on the film." Williams missed a three at the other end, and Bryant sealed the win at the free throw line. "We got to the foul line in the fourth quarter," said Jackson. "Our bench came in and gave us some offense in the fourth quarter, which was the difference." Showing no ill effects from the back injury he suffered in Game 4, Bryant drained a three to start the game, and a three from Fisher gave the Lakers an early 8-2 lead. Ronnie Brewer powered the Jazz early, scoring their first eight points. Vladimir Radmanovic provided the Lakers with an offensive spark later in the frame, drilling consecutive threes, the second pushing LA ahead 25-16 with 3:34 left. Korver came off the bench and canned a three for the Jazz, however, and Utah was able to trim to deficit to 29-26 after Boozer was fouled by Odom at the buzzer, and sank one of two free throws. The Lakers opened up a 10-point lead early in the second quarter with a 7-0 spurt, and a Vujacic three put LA ahead 43-33 with 7:12 left. The Lakers lead reached 12, at 51-39, on an Odom layup with 4:31 to play. But an Okur three kick-started an 11-2 run, and a Williams jumper pulled Utah within 53-50 with 1:53 remaining. Gasol scored six points in the last 1:19, however, and his putback layup in the final seconds of the half gave the Lakers a 61-54 lead heading into the break. The Jazz quickly cut to within one point with an 8-2 push to start the third quarter, cutting to within 63-62 on an Andrei Kirilenko layup at the 9:48 mark. The Lakers pulled back away by five points, and the Jazz cut back to within one, setting the pace for the rest of the quarter. Bryant scored the last six points of the quarter for LA, but a Ronnie Price layup with 8.4 seconds left tied the game at 81-81, which was the score as the pivotal fourth quarter began. Game Notes Despite not getting the rebounds when it mattered most, Utah did outrebound the Lakers 44-34..Gasol blocked four shots..Fisher scored 14 points for the Lakers..Brewer finished with 16 points and five assists for the Jazz, and Kirilenko had 12 points on 5-of-13 shooting. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Lindsay scored twice as the 67s beat the Mississauga-St. Michaels Majors 3-2 for their ninth win in 10 games Saturday in Ontario Hockey League action. ´ ´ ´

Sanchez (5-2) struck out seven and scattered

TURIN, Italy -- Four months away from tournament play might just be what John Daly needed to revive his golf fame. Derrick Rose Jersey . Daly finished in a three-way tie for second place behind Daniel Vancsik at the Italian Open on Sunday, charging back from 11th place with a 5-under 66 in the final round. Playing in his second tournament on the European Tour since the break, Daly shot a 31 on the back nine with birdies at the 11th, 14th, 16th and 17th holes, and was six strokes off the lead. The 66 was the fifth consecutive round in which Daly has broken 70. He tied for 31st at the Spanish Open last weekend. Daly has been playing on the European Tour since he was suspended six months by the PGA Tour last winter for conduct off the golf course, including one night in a North Carolina jail to get sober. The two-time major champion hopes to return in June to the PGA Tour, where he has not had full status on the last two years. In his last tournament, the Australian Open in December, he lost his patience with a fan who put a camera in his face during the round, smashing the camera against a tree. Vancsik had a 6-under 65 and was 17 under for the tournament, his second European Tour title. Vancsik, of Argentina, led at the end of the second and third rounds. He made eight birdies and two bogeys in the final round. "My putting was fantastic," he said. "I played more aggressively and thought if I got to 6 or 7 under (on the day) the tournament was for me. Now my goal is to get into a major." Raphael Jacquelin (68) and Robert Rock (68) finished in a group with Daly. Thomas Aiken finished third with a score of 10-under after he was unable to match his performance in the first and third rounds, shooting a 1-under 70. Russell Westbrook Jersey . The Court of Arbitration for Sport said Wednesday it expects to rule "in approximately six weeks" on an appeal filed by the International Cycling Union. 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Pineiro (7-9) threw the 12th complete game of his career as he was charged with just one run on three hits with five strikeouts.I always thought Donovan Bailey was American. Yeah, yeah, lay off, I didnt live here back then. But apparently Im not the only one. And now I realize why. In a Sun Media interview from Beijing, the former 100-meter world record holder (and proud Canadian) made some pretty blunt comments about Canadas track and field chances (which, incidentally, are somewhere in the region of none at all). "...Sport in this country is still about participation, as opposed to preparing to win," Bailey said. "Everyone thought of me as being very American in the way I carried myself because my expectations were to win. That was apparently un-Canadian." Got me thinking. Is Bailey right? I mean, has that world-famous Canadian politeness and inoffensiveness slowly seeped its way into our competitive spirit? It would be a funny SNL sketch, right? 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Not only is the kayaking king the most likely Canadian to be packing some gold in his carry-on for the flight home, he has a stereotypically un-Canadian attitude about burying the competition. ""People will say, I want to win a medal," he told a reporter this week. "Theres nothing wrong with that... Winning isnt everything. But in the race, thats kind of the point." And to anyone who thinks pride in your ability isnt a True North Strong and Free kinda trait, van Koeverden gave this gem of a quote to an inquiring (Canuck) reporter: "If somebody mistakes outspoken confidence for arrogance, they need to buy a dictionary." Amen, Adam. Now go bring home some hardware and make us proud. Kobe Bryant Jersey. However, all signs point to McNabb taking the field Sunday night at home against Dallas, as he was a full participant in each of the weeks three practice sessions. ´ ´ ´

They know were here for them in every way possible

Beijing, China (Sports Network) - The United States mens volleyball team surged to a big lead before beating Venezuela in five sets on Sunday, one day after a fatal knifing attack on a family member of the Olympic head coach. Robert Griffin Jersey . The U.S. won 25-18, 25-18, 22-25, 21-25, 15-10, with Clayton Stanleys emphatic slam finishing a match that lasted just over two hours and giving the men a victory in their Summer Games opener. Ron Larsen was elevated from his job as an assistant to head coach on Sunday, filling in for Hugh McCutcheon, whose father-in-law was fatally stabbed Saturday by a knife-wielding Chinese attacker in downtown Beijing. Todd Bachman was killed in the attack and his wife, Barbara, was seriously injured. Their daughter, 2004 U.S. Olympic womens indoor volleyball player Elisabeth Bachman McCutcheon, was with her parents at the time but was not hurt. Barbara Bachman suffered serious, life-threatening injuries, including multiple lacerations and stab wounds. After undergoing approximately eight hours of surgery Saturday afternoon and evening, she is in critical but stable condition at a Beijing hospital. The incident took place on the second story of the Drum Tower, a popular tourist site in downtown Beijing. The assailant committed suicide by throwing himself off the tower. "As a team, there is nothing more important to us than supporting Mrs. Bachman in her struggle and supporting Hugh and Elisabeth in their grief," team leader Rob Browning said in a prepared statement. "We are absolutely devastated by what has occurred, for their loss and for everything they are going through. "Hugh has been in touch with the team throughout this tragedy and were extremely proud of the strength he and Elisabeth are displaying. They know were here for them in every way possible." The U.S. men continue Pool A play on Tuesday when they face Italy. Michael Jordan Jersey . 27-31 when they take on a well-rested Pittsburgh Penguins team at Consol Energy Center on Saturday. Robert Griffin III Jersey . Nicolas Constantin-Bicari, Justin Boyd and Devon Diggle all scored twice for Canada (3-0-0), while Constantine Kudaba, Luka Gasic and Jared McElroy added singles. Gonzalo Echenique had a pair of goals for Argentina (0-1-3), while Ramiro Veich, Ivan Martin Carabantes and Ramiro Gil also scored. Calvin Johnson Nike Jersey . Just ask Steve Davis. He obviously has the talent to be world No 1 and I am sure he can do it in the very near future, said Davis, who has won 28 titles in roughly as many years. Allen Iverson Jersey ." Milan is in talks with City over the signing of Argentina international Tevez, who hasnt played for City since being suspended for two weeks and fined a fortnights wages for refusing to warm up during a Champions League game in September. Kevin Durant Jersey . Quentin finished with four RBI and Jermaine Dye added a solo shot for Chicago, which has won five of its last six games and remain tied with Minnesota for the top spot in the AL Central after the Twins downed the Seattle Mariners, 11-8, on Sunday. VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) -Vancouver center Kyle Wellwood became the latest Canucks player injured when he broke his big toe late in Saturdays 3-1 victory over Toronto. Wellwood, who has struggled with one assist in 10 games, said he broke the toe on his right foot blocking a Mike Komisarek slap shot inn the third period, but was still able to finish the game. Frank Gore Nike Jersey. But once I took my skate off it started swelling, Wellwood said Sunday. It s just a matter of when they can fit it into a skate and put more pressure on it, so right now I am just day to day. That timeline is welcome news for a team missing six regulars. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Duncan, you knew this was going to be a tough game, a must win for Philadelphia. ´ ´ ´

Kostelecky finished with a final score of 146

KANSAS CITY, Mo. Allen Iverson Jersey . -- Jarrad Page, the Kansas City safety who fell out of favour with coaches last year and asked to be traded before sitting out the entire pre-season, has signed his restricted free-agent tender with the Chiefs. Page lost his starting spot last season in Todd Haleys first year as head coach. The former UCLA player has made 39 starts since the Chiefs drafted him in the seventh round in 2006. The Chiefs also announced they had released seven players: tight end Leroy Banks, wice receiver Rich Gunnell, offensive lineman Lemuel Jeanpierre, tackle Ikechuku Ndukwe, cornerback Mike Richardson, linebacker John Russell and guard Dan Santucci. 2012 Philadelphia Eagles Nike Jersey . Kostelecky finished with a final score of 146. Giovanni Pellielo of Italy won the silver, and Alexey Alipov of Russia took the bronze. Alipov defeated Michael Diamond of Australia in a shoot-off for the final medal. Kevin Durant Jersey .[PhotoXinhua] HOUSTON - The British Petroleum said Monday it has spent US$2 billion in costs related to the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. The British oil giant said in a statement issued here that the costs included those of spill response, containment, relief well drilling, grants to the Gulf states, claims paid to affected individuals and businesses, and federal costs. Calvin Johnson Jersey . The Austrian team says Hosp was airlifted by helicopter Saturday off the Rettenbach glacier to a hospital in nearby Innsbruck, where she had ligament surgery on her right knee. Ricky Rubio Jersey . 1 Blue Devils dominated UNC Greensboro, 108-62. Coach K notched the 880th win of his career to move past the former North Carolina coach and now trails just Bob Knight, who sits at 902 wins, for tops in Division I mens basketball. Mario Chalmers jersey . -- After a taxing win against a reworked team, Chicago Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville gave the credit to his goalie.PHILADELPHIA - Steve Pearce broke up a scoreless game with a run-scoring double in the 12th inning, and six Pittsburgh pitchers held down the potent Philadelphia Phillies in the Pirates 2-0 victory Friday night. Ryan Doumit started the 12th with a double off Phillies reliever Les Walrond (0-1). One out later, Pearce smacked a ball past third baseman Eric Bruntlett and down the left-field line, allowing Doumit to trot home for a 1-0 lead. A two-out, bases-loaded infield single by Freddy Sanchez gave the Pirates a little extra cushion. T.J. Beam (1-1) pitched two scoreless innings of relief for Pittsburgh, and Craig Hansen tossed the 12th for his third save of the season and first since he was traded from the Boston Red Sox in the three-team Manny Ramirez deal on July 31. Hansen got some help from Brandon Moss, who made a diving grab in left-centre on Chase Utleys fly ball with runners on first and second and one out. Moss threw to Freddy Sanchez covering second to try to double up Jimmy Rollins, but he made it back safely. Jared Allen Jersey. Sanchez then spun and threw to first and doubled up Shane Victorino to end the game. The Phillies were shut out for the second straight day and watched their NL East lead shrink to one game over the New York Mets, who beat the Florida Marlins 3-0. Philadelphia has gone 23 innings without scoring a run. Though neither starting pitcher factored in the decision, Philadelphias Joe Blanton and Pittsburghs Paul Maholm controlled the game for the first seven innings. Acquired by the Phillies last month in a trade with Oakland, Blanton allowed just one hit - a leadoff single by Doug Mientkiewicz in the fourth. Blanton walked two, tied a season-high with seven strikeouts and didnt allow a Pirates runner past first base. Maholm scattered five hits, walked three, and struck out a career-high 10, including five straight between the fifth and seventh innings. Pat Burrell nearly broke the deadlock in the eighth, but his two-out fly ball to left was caught at the fence by Moss. Kobe Bryant Jersey. -- The way Roger Goodell sees it, more is better when it comes to NFL games. ´ ´ ´

Schaub received the offensive honor after throwing

San Francisco, CA (Sports Network) - Dan Uggla and Mike Stanton homered to back the strong pitching of Ricky Nolasco, as Florida held on for a 4-3 win over the San Francisco Giants to open a four-game set. Pau Gasol Jersey . Nolasco (11-7) allowed four hits, a run, walked a batter and had seven strikeouts to win for the sixth time in his last seven starts. Stanton drove in two and Leo Nunez surrendered a run in the ninth, but left the potential tying tally at third for his 24th save, as the Marlins posted their eighth win in 10 games. Barry Zito (8-6) permitted eight hits and three runs over 6 1/3 innings and suffered his first career loss when facing Florida. Zito, who had been 5-0 in six starts vs. the Marlins, had three strikeouts. Aaron Rowand belted a pinch-hit, two-run homer in the seventh inning, but the Giants had a four-game winning streak broken and lost for just the fourth time in their last 19 contests. Buster Posey extended his hitting streak to 19 games, the second-longest by a rookie in San Francisco-era history behind Hall of Famer Willie McCoveys 22-gamer in 1959. Uggla homered to left in the fourth inning and Stanton hit Zitos first pitch of the fifth over the wall in left-center. It became 3-0 in the sixth when Uggla scored on a Cody Ross sacrifice fly on a nice sliding catch by Andres Torres in right-center field. Pat Burrell walked with one out in the seventh. Rowand, pinch-hitting for Travis Ishikawa, sent Taylor Tankersleys 0-1 pitch over the wall in left field. Emilio Bonifacio jumped at the fence, but the ball was caught by fan with a glove at the top of the wall. Marlins manager Edwin Rodriguez argued that the fan interfered, but after umpires went into the clubhouse for a replay, the evidence wasnt strong enough to overturn the home run call. Ross scored on Stantons double to center in the eighth and Nunez survived the ninth. Rowand and Freddy Sanchez singled to start the frame. Pinch-hitter Ryan Rohlinger put down a successful sacrifice bunt, and one run scored on Torres groundout. First baseman Gaby Sanchez knocked down the ball on a diving stop and flipped to Nunez for the out. Edgar Renteria struck out to end the game and had to be thrown out at first base by catcher Ronny Paulino. Game Notes: It was the first pinch-hit homer of Rowands career...Former Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula was in attendance...Before Monday, Zito had allowed one home run (2007) to the Marlins...After the game, the Marlins placed outfielder Chris Coghlan on the 15-day disabled list with torn meniscus in his right knee. They also called up first baseman Logan Morrison from Triple-A New Orleans...The Marlins moved above .500 (50-49) for the first time since June 3. Mario Chalmers Jersey . Jude Championship for the second time. Leonard, who also won the 2005 St. Jude, rolled in a 19-foot birdie putt for his 12th PGA Tour title. He missed a chance to win in regulation when his 13-foot birdie try at the 18th hole burned the edge of the cup. Elton Brand Jersey . Only goal difference is keeping Tottenham behind second-place United while Citys lead is three points. But while United has won a dozen English titles alone since 1993, City and Tottenham have not been champions of England since the 1960s. Matthew Stafford Jersey . Schaub received the offensive honor after throwing for 305 yards and two touchdowns on 25-of-33 passing and a 123.9 passer rating in a 35-31 win over Kansas City. He led the team on a nine-play, 80-yard drive capped on an 11- yard score to Andre Johnson with 28 seconds left to give them the win. Rajon Rondo Jersey . Aaron Johnson pitched in 18 points, seven boards and five assists for UAB (6-1). Stephen Hall scored 20 points in defeat for Jacksonville State (2-6), which received 18 points from Jeremy Bynum. As for senior guard Nick Murphy, who tallied nine points, he became the Gamecocks all-time Division I scoring leader. London Fletcher Jersey . Macaos fate has always been interlinked with that of its motherland, Lu said. Macao had remained basically unknown under the colonial rule of the Portuguese, he said, adding that it was only after its return to China that the SAR gained international popularity, especially for its successful implementation of the one country, two systems policy. BEIJING -- Despite Chinas social and economic progress over the past three decades, allowances for workers performing difficult or dangerous tasks have remained largely unchanged. The Peoples Daily, the flagship newspaper of the Communist Party of China, said in a bylined opinion piece Tuesday that allowances for Chinese people working in difficult or hazardous environments are too low, and the state rules on these allowances need revised. Under current regulations, doctors using X-ray machines can receive a monthly allowance of 50 yuan (US$7.7) as compensation for their exposure to workplace radiation. The paper said the rules are out-dated because they have stood unrevised for 20 years and aa 50-yuan monthly allowance is no longer adequate compensation for daily exposure to radiation. Percy Harvin Jersey. The only state regulation on allowances for working outdoors under high temperatures was issued in 1960 and has stayed unchanged ever since, according to the newspaper. This regulation sets the daily allowance for working outdoors in high temperatures at two yuan, which is barely enough to buy a bottle of water, it said. The newspaper said obsolete regulations mostly undermine the interests of ordinary outdoor workers, including construction workers, street cleaners and bus drivers. It warned that these far out-of-date regulations could impede development and called for timely clearing and revision. Kobe Bryant Jersey. The Chinese swimming sensation powered home in an amazing 2:01.81, shaving over two seconds off previous world mark of 2:03.41 set by Australian Jessica Schipper at the Rome World Championships last summer. ´ ´ ´

China abstained from the UN vote to enforce a no-fly

UNITED NATIONS - China abstained from the UN vote to enforce a no-fly zone over Libya as it always opposes the use of force in international relations, the countrys top representative to the world body said. Mark Ingram Jersey . In an exclusive interview with China Daily, Li Baodong, Chinas permanent representative to the UN, said military action only complicates the situation rather than resolves it. Related readings: World calls for ceasefire, political solution in Libya China explains position on UN no-fly vote on Libya China is not a tiny morsel like Libya EU to launch military operation for humanitarian relief in Libya China had serious difficulty with some issues of the resolution, he said. But, taking into account the Arab Leagues proposal to establish a no-fly zone, as well as the positions of African countries and the African Union, and the special circumstances in Libya, he said, China opted to abstain from the vote rather than veto it, as it could have done as a permanent member of the UN Security Council. China served as UN Security Council president in March when the body passed the resolution enforcing a no-fly zone over Libya and authorized all necessary measures to protect civilians in the North African nation. Four other nations abstained from the vote. We support the Security Council in taking appropriate and necessary action to stabilize the situation in Libya and end acts of violence against civilians, said Li, a seasoned diplomat who became permanent representative of China to the UN in March 2010 after serving in a similar post at the UN in Geneva. Li expressed regret over recent developments, including military action in Libya. Li added that China has consistently stressed that the council should comply with the UN Charter and international law, respect the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Libya, and help resolve the current crisis through peaceful means. The purpose of passing the resolution was to end violence and protect civilians. If the military action caused civilian casualties it would then create an even bigger humanitarian crisis, he said. The council held 16 open meetings and 16 closed consultations in March, and reviewed Libya, Sudan, the Middle East, Cote dIvoire and other hotspots. China also proposed an open debate on Somalia, seeking a comprehensive strategy for the country. As council president, Li chaired three consultations on Sudan and issued media statements on the country. A referendum on self-determination was held in south Sudan in January. The final results showed nearly 99 percent voted in favor of declaring independence in July. The referendum was one of the consequences of the 2005 Naivasha Agreement between the Khartoum government and the Sudan Peoples Liberation ArmyMovement. But clashes broke out last month in Abyei, an oil-rich region claimed by both north and south Sudan. The clashes claimed more than 100 lives and displaced thousands of people. Experts say Abyei, which has witnessed several outbreaks of violence since the 2005 peace deal, could potentially derail the whole peace process. During his March presidency, Li met the Secretary-General of the Sudan Peoples Liberation Army Pagan Amum Okiech, and the permanent representative of Sudan to the UN, Daffa-Alla Elhag Ali Osman. Li exchanged views with both on the situation in Sudan and promoted peace talks. With efforts from all fronts, north and south Sudan agreed to resume talks regarding some outstanding issues and to form a joint commission to investigate the conflict in Abyei, Li said. China respects the will and choice of the Sudanese people and appreciates the continuous efforts of north and south Sudan regarding the peace process, he added. We hope north and south Sudan will continue negotiations through dialogue to resolve outstanding issues with the principle of mutual understanding and compromise, Li said. China was also president of the council in January 2010 but the March presidency coincided with the turmoil in the Middle East, Li said. China adhered to the principles of fairness and neutrality, worked in an efficient and pragmatic fashion and coordinated with non-council members and other UN bodies, he said. China supports a necessary and rational reform of the Security Council. Li stressed that reform should include not only council expansion, but also an improvement in its modus operandi to maintain its authority, increase efficiency and strengthen its global role. The reform should help improve the authority and efficiency of the council and make sure it more effectively performs its responsibilities entrusted to it by the UN Charter, he said. Li said council reform should give top priority to increasing the representation of developing nations, especially from Africa. Reform should reflect the global trend of a democratization in international relations and give more small- and medium-sized countries access to the council and the decision-making process, he said. While developing countries account for more than two-thirds of the entire UN membership, they are still under-represented in the council which has five permanent members - China, Russia, France, the UK and the US - who have the power of veto. Li said the basis of reform is to enhance geographical representation to form a more balanced council. Reform is an issue of great sensitivity and complexity as it bears on the national interests of all UN member states, Li said, adding it should be based on democratic discussions to reach the broadest possible consensus which reflects the spirit of mutual compromise. Russell Westbrook Jersey . NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith and members of the two negotiating teams are expected to reconvene before a federal mediator on Tuesday morning. Derrick Rose Jersey . Shi Ping, director of Haimen Audit Bureau, on Saturday received an administrative demotion and a severe reprimand from the Communist Party of China for violating discipline after he was exposed in an online post last month. Andre Iguodala Jersey . According to Newsday, team ownership has been "extremely pleased" with the direction of the team under Minaya. The extension will lock him up through 2013, as he originally signed a five-year contract that runs through 2009. Robert Griffin III Jersey . Numbers Game looks at the Corey Maggette deal. The Warriors Get: SF Corey Maggette. Maggette, 28, isnt necessarily known as the most complete player, but hes one of the better scoring wings in the game. Tim Duncan Jersey . Canada overtook Poland to finish second in 5:53.30, leaving the Polish crew to claim bronze in 5:54.57. The U.S. won the mens eight contest in 5:49.FORT WORTH, Texas -- Howdy, Hines. Welcome to Big D. Hines Ward was ready for a rodeo of a week leading up to the Super Bowl as he stepped off the Pittsburgh Steelers charter flight when the team arrived in Dallas. Pittsburghs star wide receiver, who embraces his reputation as one of the leagues most aggressive -- and some say, dirtiest -- players, was decked out in a big black cowboy hat, a black sequined Western-style shirt, blue jeans, boots and a Texas-sized silver belt buckle. "Im in Dallas, Texas," Ward said, smiling. "I wanted to put on my whole cowboy outfit and enjoy it. No nerves." He sure looked loose, and almost like a native Texan. Not bad for a guy born in South Korea who grew up in Georgia and has played in Pittsburgh for 13 years. "Whered I find all this stuff?" an amused Ward asked, repeating a reporters question. "A little place in Monroeville (Pa.). Its my little diamond in the rough there." Ward and the rest of these Steelers are no strangers to the NFLs biggest stage, making their third Super Bowl trip in six years. "Were enjoying this," Ward said. "We know right now that there are a lot of guys who would love to have this opportunity. Being here, theres a comfort level. We kind of know what to expect." And, in Pittsburgh, titles are expected. The Steelers are looking to win the franchises seventh league championship Sunday, when they take on Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. "Just like last time when we were in this game, its our intention to enjoy all of the elements that this week has in store for us and not fight against it," said Tomlin, looking for his second ring as the Steelers coach. "Part of you is somewhat resistant to some of the things, but were not going to make a negative out of what a wonderful week that we have awaiting us. We are going to embrace it all." That includes all the hoopla that goes along with being one of the teams playing in the Super Bowl. "You step off the plane and youve got helicopters, youve got police, media and then this," quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said. "If youre not used to it, it could be overwhelming." Maybe for the Packers, playing in their first Super Bowl since a Brett Favre-led team lost to John Elway and the Denver Broncos in 1998. For the Steelers, though, this is no sweat. "I definitely think its more a sense of calm on our side of the ball, being that weve been here," linebacker James Farrior said. "A lot of guys in thhis locker room have got Super Bowl experience. DeMarco Murray Jersey. I think itll help us out just dealing with everything thatll be going on this week." Roethlisberger is plenty used to this wild environment, and he has tried to take a low-key approach since winning his first ring back in his second season, when the Steelers beat the Seattle Seahawks 21-10 in 2006. It was the same three years later, when he engineered a late comeback win as Pittsburgh rallied to beat Arizona 27-23. "Im just taking it in stride, enjoying this opportunity, regardless of what comes and the outcomes," he said. "Im just taking it all in." And, this all comes after an off-season in which he was accused of sexual assault of a 20-year-old college student, but a prosecutor in Georgia declined to bring charges. But, Roethlisberger was still suspended by the NFL for the first four games of the season for violating the leagues personal conduct policy. "Were all human," Roethlisberger said. "We all make mistakes, and its how can you bounce back from your mistakes? Just like a football game, you throw interceptions, you lose a game, youve got to be able to bounce back and find a way that it doesnt happen again." The Steelers are trying to focus only on the task at hand, and might have learned a few things about the Packers in their last meeting -- a 37-36 win in 2009 -- that they can make use of in this game. Not that Tomlin is giving away any secrets. "You get yourself into trouble when you try to have preconceived notions about how the game is going to unfold," he said. "That was an exciting, entertaining game we had against them a year ago. ... What happened at Heinz Field in 09 is going to have no bearing on what happens in this stadium. So many of the components of those teams are different, so its really irrelevant." But even Tomlin acknowledged that that meeting could help ramp up the expectations for a hard-fought, close Super Bowl game. "This is going to be an execution-oriented game," Tomlin said. "The team that executes better is going to have a better chance to win. So were going to sharpen our sword for battle with that in mind." When he took over as the Steelers coach in 2007, he set some lofty goals for himself and the franchise. And, hes one win closer to achieving the biggest of all. "Its probably about two Super Bowls short of my vision," he said. "But thats just me. Im not in a reflection mode. Im really not. Im just trying to go and do it." Kobe Bryant Jersey. Dautres évaluations doivent être effectuées avant de conna?tre la durée de labsence du Finlandais. Salo, agé de 35 ans, a subi de nombreuses blessures au cours de sa carrière de 11 saisons dans la LNH avec les Sénateurs dOttawa et les Canucks. ´ ´ ´

All of Torontos offense come from players

TORONTO (AP) - Nazem Kadri scored his first NHL goal, Joey Crabb added a goal and two assists, and the Toronto Maple Leafs hammered the slumping Boston Bruins 5-2 on Saturday night. Robert Griffin Jersey . All of Torontos offense come from players with fewer than five goals this season. The goal scorers have combined for just 13 goals. Luke Schenn, Mike Brown and Keith Aulie also scored for the Maple Leafs (32-31-10). Adam McQuaid and Dan Paille had goals for Northeast Division-leading Boston, 1-3-3 in its past seven games. Toronto kept pace with eighth-place Buffalo, which beat Atlanta 8-2 on Saturday. The Leafs are four points back with nine games remaining. It was the first trip back to Toronto for Tomas Kaberle since the defenseman was dealt to Boston on Feb. 18. He played the first 878 games of his NHL career with the Maple Leafs - leaving him eighth on the franchise list - and admitted before the game that he had mixed feelings about his return. A video tribute during the first period earned Kaberle a standing ovation, and he acknowledged the fans with a couple waves. Otherwise, it was a night for him to forget. Schenn opened the scoring at 9:44 of the first period. With Bobby Orr watching from a private box, the stay-at-home defenseman went end to end and beat Tim Thomas with a high wrist shot for his fourth goal. McQuaid tied it 1-1 just over two minutes later when his shot from the corner deflected off Dion Phaneufs skate and past James Reimer. The Maple Leafs goalie was solid after being given the night off Thursday when Toronto lost 4-0 at Florida. The first goal of Kadris career came at 12:26 and needed video review. His wrist shot from the point hit McQuaids arm and fooled Thomas. The 2009 first-round pick flashed a big grin when his name was announced. Toronto blew the game open in the second period shortly after Reimer denied Tyler Seguin on a clear breakaway. Crabb and Brown scored 39 seconds apart to make it 4-1 for the Maple Leafs and chase Thomas from the net. Tuukka Rask was sent in as a replacement, but he allowed a wrist shot from Aulie to beat him at 17:23. He watched the third period from the bench after Thomas came back in. Paille scored with less than 20 seconds to play. Notes: Toronto matched last seasons total of 74 points. ... The Bruins are 7-3-3 since acquiring Kaberle. ... Kadri has played in 21 NHL games. ... Maple Leafs tough guy Colton Orr skated on Saturday morning. He hasnt played since sustaining a concussion in a fight on Jan. 20. Calvin Johnson Nike Jersey . The Blueshirts hope to extend one streak and end another this evening as they visit the Canadiens and the Bell Centre. The game can be heard live on TSN Radio 990 and TSN. Mario Chalmers jersey . Ellis effectuait un 10e départ depuis que les Ducks ont acquis ses services et son premier depuis le 20 mars dernier. Le vétéran de quatre saisons avait été acquis du Lightning de Tampa Bay le 24 février et avait amorcé les huit matchs suivants des Ducks étant donné que Jonas Hiller était victime détourdissements. Ellis avait ensuite perdu son poste de no 1 au profit dEmery. Ryan Smith a inscrit son 22e de la saison et Jonathan Quick a effectué 26 arrêts pour les Kings, qui sétaient assurés dune place en séries mercredi soir avec une victoire de 3-2 en fusillade contre les Coyotes de Phoenix. Michael Turner Jersey . -- Monta Ellis scored 24 points and the Golden State Warriors ruined the Los Angeles Lakers return to the "Fabulous" Forum with a 110-91 pre-season victory Friday night. Danny Granger Jersey . Adam LaRoche added two RBIs, and Conor Jackson and Mark Reynolds each drove in a run for the Diamondbacks, who extended their season-high winning streak to four games. Arizona will try to complete the three-game sweep Sunday. Pau Gasol Jersey . Related readings: Guangdong win sixth CBA title in seven seasons Chinas soccer chief held in matchfixing probe: media The announcement did not say which game the bribery attempt happened. Guangdong Winnerway had been under surveillance for some time. (Sports Network) - Mike Pelfrey became the New York Mets ace by default when it was learned that Johan Santana would be out until at least the All-Star break, but the right-hander hasnt looked much the part in his first two starts. A return home to face the Colorado Rockies could jump start Pelfrey as he takes the hill for tonights opener of a four-game series at Citi Field. Pelfrey was moved up in the rotation with Santana out due to a left shoulder injury. The 27-year-old has struggled at the onset of 2011 however, getting tagged for 11 earned runs in just 6 1/3 innings. The Wichita State product took a loss on April 1 at Florida after yielding five runs over 4 1/3 innings, then only lasted two-plus innings at Philadelphia five days later. Pelfrey was blasted for seven runs, six of those earned, on eight hits, but got a no-decision when the Mets rallied to tie things before an eventual 10-7 loss. It sucks for the bullpen to have to pick up six innings, a frustrated Pelfrey said. I definitely got to do better. I screwed around too much with too many sliders and curveballs. The ninth overall pick of the 2005 draft did go 10-3 with a 2.83 earned run average in 19 home starts last year and also did very well versus the Rockies, winning both of his starts against them while failing to allow a run over 14 total innings. In his career, Pelfrey is 5-2 with a 2.63 ERA in seven starts when facing Colorado. New York will need Pelfrey to go deeper into his games after the bullpen struggled in Sundays 7-3 loss to the Nationals in 11 innings. Starter Chris Young gave up just a run, one hit and two walks over the first seven innings, but the bullpen yielded a pair of runs in the eighth and another four in the 11th frame, including a three-run homer to Laynce Nix. Its always tough to take a guy out when hes pitching great, said Mets manager Terry Collins about the decision to lift Young after 108 pitches. Hiss past indicates that he begins to fatigue at that 100-pitch mark and hes had shoulder problems. Moses Malone Jersey. He got us to the eighth inning. Its a shame we couldnt win it for him. New York, which stranded two runners on base in the bottom of the 10th inning, has lost four of five and added two arms to its struggling relief group after the game. Getting recalled were Jason Isringhausen, who hasnt pitched in the majors since 2009, and Ryota Igarashi, while Blaine Boyer was designated for assignment and outfielder Lucas Duda optioned to Triple-A Buffalo. Boyer was tagged with the loss on Sunday. While the Mets fell to 4-5 on the season, the Rockies are off to a 6-2 start after taking three of four from the Pirates to begin an eight-game road trip. Colorado edged out a 6-5 win on Sunday, getting a game-tying RBI single from Jason Giambi before Seth Smith walked with the bases loaded two batters later to force in the go-ahead run. Jose Lopez added a three-run homer for the first-place Rockies. Weve learned over the course of the last two years how important these (games) in April and May show up in September, said closer Huston Street, who earned his fourth save of the season with a perfect ninth inning. Jason Hammel gets the call for the second time this season tonight for the Rockies. The right-hander made his debut last Wednesday versus the Dodgers and got the win, but gave up four runs on six hits and three walks over five innings. I actually won that game, thats pretty crazy, Hammel said. It definitely was not my best but I made pitches when I needed to and we came out on top. The 28-year-old Hammel is winless in two career starts against New York with a 9.72 ERA. He faced them just once last year, taking a loss on Aug. 12 at Citi Field after allowing four runs over seven innings. These two clubs split their six meetings a season ago, with the Mets winning two of three at home. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Back then, City failed to stay the course, taking until 1937 to win the title and 1968 to repeat the feat. This time, another slip-up would be unacceptable for Citys owners after an expensive overhaul of the squad over three years. ´ ´ ´

Blues centre T.J. Oshie will miss at least

ST. Michael Vick Jersey . LOUIS -- Blues centre T.J. Oshie will miss at least the next two games because of a sore left wrist. Oshie was scratched from Monday nights game against Dallas and will not play at Detroit on Tuesday. St. Louis coach Ken Hitchcock indicated Oshie will likely return to the lineup against Nashville on Friday. Oshie is tied with Alex Steen for the team lead with 23 points. Oshie, the 24th overall selection in 2005, has 11 goals. Hitchcock says the injury is not serious. "Weve opted to get him as close to 100 per cent as we can," Hitchcock said. St. Louis recalled centre Adam Cracknell from Peoria. Cracknell had six goals and 14 assists in Peoria. Frank Gore Nike Jersey . The former MVP was waived Tuesday after playing only three games with the Memphis Grizzlies and no team claimed him in the following 48 hours, making him a free agent. Frank Gore Jersey . 12, as they work toward reaching a new collective bargaining agreement. "While we still have areas of disagreement, the talks have been constructive and both parties believe it makes sense to continue to work hard to reach agreement," said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. Blake Griffin Jersey . -- The Sacramento Kings used a balanced offence to cool off the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night. Kobe Bryant Jersey . [PhotoXinhua] BEIJING - Austrian Federal Chancellor Werner Faymann concluded his official visit to China and left Beijing Saturday morning. During his three-day visit, Chinese President Hu Jintao met with Faymann on Friday. Robert Griffin Jersey . Aldo de Nigris and Javier (El Chicharito) Hernandez scored off corner kicks early in overtime and Mexico defeated Honduras 2-0 in the semifinals on Wednesday night, advancing to play the United States in Saturdays final at the Rose Bowl. SALT LAKE CITY -- Canadians Mikael Kingsbury and Alexandre Bilodeau finished 1-2 on Thursday in a World Cup moguls event at Deer Valley, Utah. Kingsbury, from Deux-Montagnes, Que., finished the course with 25.90 points to take gold, while Montreals Bilodeau took silver with 25.60. "The final was pretty strong today," said Kingsbury. "I had to push the limit and do my two big jumps and it went well and here, for me, its one of the biggest events, like the Super Bowl of freestyle skiing every year." Norways Vinjar Slaaten won bronze with 25.05. Marc-Antoine Gagnon of Terrebonne, Que., was fifth with a score of 24.38, Cedric Rochon of Saaint-Sauveur, Que. Andrew Bynum Jersey. , was ninth with 23.44 and Phillipe Marquis was 11th with 23.20 points. The gold medal ties Kingsbury with American Jeremy Bloom for the World Cup moguls record of six consecutive wins. In womens moguls, American Hannah Kearney won gold with 25.21 points, while countryman Heather McPhie was second (24.77) and Australian Britteny Cox third (22.84). Montreals Chloe Dufour-Lapointe was the top Canadian, placing fifth with 23.42 points. Audrey Robichaud of Quebec City was eighth (23.03), while Chelsea Henitiuk of Spruce Grove, Alta., was ninth (22.95). Maxime Dufour-Lapointe, also from Montreal, was 14th (20.55). Kobe Bryant Jersey. Houston improved to 4-0 on its current seven-game road trip in Thursdays opener, as Chris Johnson hit a solo homer, drove in two runs and scored twice, propelling the Astros to a 7-4 win. ´ ´ ´

Little opposition has emerged to Major League

ORLANDO, Fla. Rajon Rondo Jersey . -- Little opposition has emerged to Major League Baseball expanding its playoffs for 2012 as the sports top officials discussed the concept during two days of meetings. While commissioner Bud Selig has yet to formally propose adding two more wild-card teams, he said during the World Series that he was giving the plan serious consideration. General managers and owners were waiting to hear whether Selig would directly address them on the matter Thursday, when three days of meetings conclude. "I dont see any minuses," Florida Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria said Wednesday. "More excitement at the end of the season. It prolongs the season a little bit, but thats not a negative for me." While Selig hasnt ruled out proposing the change for 2011, nearly all baseball officials say the extra round of playoffs would likely start in 2012. If Selig decides to go ahead, owners would have to endorse the plan, baseballs television partners would have to receive it positively and the players association would have to agree. Union head Michael Weiner says players are open to the idea. "I think the more teams you have in it, the month of September will obviously be more meaningful," said Toronto Blue Jays president Paul Beeston, Seligs one-time No. 2. "The minuses -- two of them obviously are the integrity of the schedule and the history of the game, where you know the best teams always moved forward. But we really crossed that bridge, didnt we, when we went from two teams to four teams, and then four teams to eight teams? So that bridge has been crossed. Ive changed. I could add more teams." In the unusual format of this weeks meetings, general managers and owners gathered at the same hotel, while team business officials met 3 1/4 miles away at the hotel in Lake Buena Vista where the winter meetings will be held from Dec. 6-9. Selig addressed GMs Wednesday as that group finished, and owners will meet Thursday. The formal sessions were dominated by preparation for collective bargaining next year. Agents for free-agent players also were on hand striking deals. The Florida Marlins finalized an US$18 million, three-year contract with former Toronto Blue Jays catcher John Buck, and the Detroit Tigers reached a preliminary agreement on a $16.5 million, three-year contract with Joaquin Benoit, a deal that could raise prices for setup relievers. In the second trade of the meetings, speedy outfielder Rajai Davis was acquired by the Blue Jays from the Oakland Athletics for minor league right-handers Trystan Magnuson of Vancouver, and Daniel Farquhar. Oakland last week acquired outfielder David DeJesus from Kansas, making Davis superfluous. Also, the New York Mets began interviewing their four finalists for manager. Bob Melvin and Chip Hale were due in Wednesday, followed by Wally Backman and Terry Collins on Thursday. As for the expanded playoffs, there appears to be more discussion of how to do it rather than whether to do it. Many thought a winner-take-all one-game meeting of wild cards in each league wouldnt be fair. "It doesnt seem right," Atlanta Braves chairman emeritus Bill Bartholomay said. "But people will have to take a look at it." Best-of-three could be a middle ground for the wild-card round. Selig and team officials worry about the World Series ending even later than it current does -- it went into November for the second straight year, even though the San Francisco Giants beat Texas in five games. "Youve got concerns about weather and youve got concerns about the length of the schedule," Beeston said. "Theres nothing like a best-of-one, as a fan, but Im not so sure Id want to be playing all year and do it." From a club standpoint, Loria saw a possible negative issue with a best-of-one. "You only get to play in one town," he said. And if theres a best-of-three, what would the format be? Would the team with the better record be home for the first two games? For the final two? Could it be 1-1-1, which might involves days off or lengthy travel? A one-game wild-card round would solve the travel, but would give an advantage to a team with a rested ace pitcher. Beeston saw a way around that. "Win your division," he said. Blake Griffin Jersey .J. Putz from the 15-day disabled list and optioned pitcher Ryan Rowland-Smith to Triple-A Tacoma on Sunday. Adrian Peterson Jersey . Florida righty Ricky Nolasco is undoubtedly eager to get back on the mound after giving up a season-high nine runs, including five earned, in just three innings of a loss to the Diamondbacks last time out. Nolasco walked a season- high five batters in that outing, raising his season ERA to 4. Rajon Rondo Jersey . Beautiful scenery at the Huangshan Mountain. [Photochinadaily.com.cn] As a major tourist attraction in China, the most popular activity in the Huangshan Mountain area is hiking around to see the scenery, but there are also other things for you to enjoy. Drew Brees Jersey . The mainland believed the Taiwan authorities would take necessary measures to maintain security of the talks and the mainland delegation, said Fan Liqing, spokeswoman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, at a press conference in Beijing. Marques Colston Jersey ." Milan is in talks with City over the signing of Argentina international Tevez, who hasnt played for City since being suspended for two weeks and fined a fortnights wages for refusing to warm up during a Champions League game in September.SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Sacramento Kings coach Keith Smart took off his blue jacket and tossed it to DeMarcus Cousins. The fouled-out forward played coach for the final minute, and everybody on the bench enjoyed a laugh. That wasnt the only rare sight in Sacramento this season. Marcus Thornton scored 31 points, Cousins had 23 points and five rebounds and the Kings held off the Memphis Grizzlies 119-110 on Tuesday night for only their second three-game winning streak this year. "He decided, Coach, let me coach," Smart said. "I said, Fine. But if I get fined, youre paying. It actually fit him. Either hes losing weight, or Im gaining weight." Sacramento is certainly looking different these days. Thornton added seven rebounds and six assists, and Tyreke Evans returned after missing the last two games because of a sprained left ankle, scoring nine of his 13 points in the fourth quarter to help the Kings pull away. Smart, who replaced the fired Paul Westphal after a 2-5 start, pointed to another sign of change: he said Evans asked during the morning shootaround that John Salmons remain in the starting lineup in his place, so long as the team is winning. "Theyre starting to like each other," Smart said. "And theyre getting closer to that other L word." No so much for Memphis lately. Rudy Gay had 23 points and six rebounds, and Marc Gasol added 15 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists for the Grizzlies, who began a stretch of nine of 11 games away from home. Memphis has lost three of its last four and is suddenly in a rut. "I dont want to talk about any individual person. All I want to talk about is that we got our butts kicked because we did not play hard and did not play together," Grizzlies coach Lionel Hollins said. Sacramentos current three-game winning streak might be more impressive than when it rolled off wins against Portland, Golden State and New Orleans from Feb. 2-6. The Kings have beaten Boston, Minnesota and Memphis -- all teams in, or fighting for, playoff spots -- in the past week. Sacramento still had to sweat out the latest victory. After Memphis moved within three, Sacramento started an 11-2 run highlighted by a pair of layups by Evans and a dunk by Jason Thompson to go ahead 106-94. The spurt stalled for a moment when Cousins fouled out reaching for the ball near halfcourt with 6:48 remaining, flicking his headband off in disgust. The Kings clamped down on defence and turned some sloppy Grizzlies turnoveers into easy baskets. London Fletcher Jersey. When Thompson grabbed a rebound and tossed it ahead to Isaiah Thomas for an uncontested layup with 3:05 remaining, Sacramento took a 12-point lead that proved too much for Memphis to overcome. "Its just good to get wins," said Evans, adding he will continue to come off the bench. "Its good to see everybody happy. It doesnt matter whos playing good or whos playing what, as long as were winning." Sacramento started strong despite its short-handed -- and short -- point guard spot. All of 5-foot-9, Thomas took over more duties for the hobbled Evans for the third straight game. He slipped and squeezed his way through the paint with ease, rebounding Thorntons air ball and tossing it in for a layup to put the Kings ahead 37-28 at the end of the first quarter. Evans, still slowed by ankle injury, came in relief after missing the last two games. Randolph, playing only his third game since tearing the MCL in his right knee New Years Day in Chicago, returned to the starting lineup for Memphis and had 13 points and seven rebounds. The spark on both sides still came from others. The Kings built a 54-41 lead behind Thornton and Cousins and seemed to be in complete control in front of one of the sparsest crowds of the season. Instead, Memphis went on a 17-6 run to close within two before Sacramento extended its lead back to 10 points, getting a dunk from Thompson on a 3-on-1 break just before the halftime buzzer. Cousins received a bloody nose when he collided with Dante Cunningham in the third quarter. He twice had to leave the game -- first team trainers had to plug Cousins nose, then the power forward had to put on a new jersey after blood spilled onto his shorts -- and Memphis narrowed Sacramentos lead to seven entering the fourth quarter. "I got say that in the first quarter, we gave up 37 points and that was pretty much the game right there," said Grizzlies guard Tony Allen, who scored 14 points. "They set the tone and unfortunately we couldnt bounce back." NOTES: Hollins expects G Gilbert Arenas to join the team Wednesday in Portland. Arenas, waived by Orlando in December through the new amnesty clause, signed with the Grizzlies on Tuesday. ... The Kings honoured three surviving military members of the Pearl Harbor attacks between the first and second quarters. ... Kings F Donte Greene was called for a technical foul in the second quarter. Greene ran up to an official arguing that he was pushed out of bounds. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Danny Briere and Scott Hartnell scored for the Flyers in a 2-1 victory over the Islanders on Saturday, giving Philadelphia its 14th straight win over New York. ´ ´ ´

Emmanuel Adebayor scored his fourth goal in six

WEST BROMWICH, England -- Emmanuel Adebayor scored his fourth goal in six days for Tottenham as Harry Redknapps side kept up the pressure for a Champions League spot by beating West Brom 3-1 Saturday in the Premier League. Miles Austin Jersey . Tottenhams club-record fifth straight Premier League win came despite West Brom taking an early lead at the Hawthorns through Youssouf Mulumbus header. Tottenham levelled through Adebayor after his initial penalty kick had been parried by Ben Foster. Jermain Defoe, who earnt a recall in place of injured Rafael van der Vaart, struck his seventh goal of the season with nine minutes remaining. Defoe beat Foster with a low drive from a flick by Adebayor after the Baggies defence back-tracked. Defoe then had another close-range attempt deflected wide before Adebayor, on target twice against Aston Villa on Monday, grabbed his second goal off a pass from Gareth Bale in injury time. Tottenham has now picked up 28 points from a 10-game unbeaten league run. Spurs always threatened when they pushed forward as Albion ran out of steam and were unable to maintain the high tempo performance which served them well in the opening half. Adebayor was a constant menace while midfielder Scott Parker was more of an influence in the final 45 minutes. Foster looked unconvincing when fumbling a low 30-yard drive from Sandro around the post. But after 10 minutes Mulumbu put Albion ahead with his first goal of the season. Zoltan Gera turned the ball back to Steven Reid whose cross was met by the unmarked Mulumbu who glanced a header past Brad Friedel into the corner of the net. After 26 minutes Adebayor put Tottenham level with his sixth goal of the season. Referee Lee Probert awarded a penalty after Aaron Lennon was pulled back by Nicky Shorey, the third penalty West Brom has conceded in its last three home games. Adebayors spot-kick was blocked by Foster but the on-loan Manchester City striker converted the rebound and then put the result out of doubt in injury time. Kevin Garnett Jersey . (AP) -Milan Lucic has felt the love of the Boston Bruins fans and is not interested in playing for another team. Tony Romo Jersey . Kouzmanoffs two-run double snapped a 2-2 tie and punctuated a four-run sixth inning rally as the Athletics overcame an early deficit to down the Royals for a fifth time in six tries this season. Coco Crisp and Cliff Pennington each had two hits and scored a run for Oakland, which improved to 25-11 in day games in 2010. Paul Pierce Jersey . The deaths were reported from the countrys Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais states. Related readings: Mudslide kills 16 in Brazil Italy mudslide death toll could hit 50 Rescuer find 700 safe after Taiwan mudslide Mudslide kills five in western Japan Brazil mudslide, flood death toll rises to 84 Flood mudslides claimed 72 lives in the Rio de Janeiro state alone, where the disaster hit a holiday resort on the Grande Island and hit houses at the town of Angra dos Reis on the mainland. Ray Allen Jersey . The 2.26-meter center discussed working with Olajuwon during the offseason after his teams humiliating 4-3 loss to the Utah Jazz in first round of the NBA Playoffs. Derrick Rose Jersey . While the postseason pressure may seem to be focused most on the players and coaching staffs of the 16 teams that begin with championship aspirations, another group of individuals feeling it is the officials.HOUSTON - Tracy McGrady took another night off and Yao Ming barely broke a sweat as the Houston Rockets still easily handled the Minnesota Timberwolves. Luis Scola had 22 points and nine rebounds and rookie Carl Landry had 15 points and 11 rebounds, both career highs, as the Rockets beat Minnesota 113-82 on Friday night to win for the seventh time in the nine games McGrady has missed with a left knee injury. Yao scored 15 points in only 28 minutes as the Rockets blew out the Timberwolves in the first half and cruised to their season-high fifth consecutive victory. Houston coach Rick Adelman had no complaints - except for the time out Landry called after diving for a rebound in the final minute. But the six-foot-nine draft pick out of Purdue Univesity could be excused for the rookie mistake. Hed played only 17 total minutes in the NBA before logging 20 on Friday. "When I got in there, I got a steal and I was running around, almost like a chicken with my head cut off," Landry said. "Coach was like, Settle down. Youre not a point guard. I got more relaxed and just let the game come to me." Luther Head scored 15 points and Rafer Alston had 11 points and five assists for Houston. Ryan Gomes had 20 points and six rebounds for the Wolves, who have lost 15 of their last 17 games overall and 13 straight on the road. "We didnt show up tonight," Minnesota coach Randy Wittman said. "The way we played was discouraging." Houston trainer Keith Jones said before the game that McGrady will probably miss another week as he recovers from a bone bruise and injured tendons in the knee. The Rockets also played without Bonzi Wells, who has a sprained left shoulder, but the hapless Timberwolves were still overmatched. Houston hit 13 of its first 23 shots and led 31-18 after the first quarter. Every Rockets starter had between four and seven points as they continued their balanced attack in McGradys absence. Scola is the fifth different player to lead the Rockets in scoring, while McGrady has been sidelined. An established star in the European League, but a rookie in the NBA, Scola has reached double figures in seven of Houstons last 11 ggames. 2012 Philadelphia Eagles Nike Jersey. "I think Im working hard and Im getting better little by little," Scola said. "Im getting used to the differences between here and where I come from." The Timberwolves, the NBAs second-lowest scoring team, missed 14 of 21 shots in the quarter. The Rockets outscored the Wolves 34-15 in the second quarter, using mostly reserves. Eventually, Adelman had a lineup on the floor that included Alston, Scola, Landry, fellow rookie Aaron Brooks and seldom-used Mike James. And Houston still stayed in control. James, who played for Minnesota last season, sank a three-pointer and threw a long pass to Scola for a layup that put Houston up 57-26. At that point, the Rockets were shooting 57 per cent (24 of 42). "We got ourselves in trouble by the way we played offensively," Wittman said. "Were either too nice or too scared is what it looked like to me." Landry, seeing his first action since Dec. 9, had seven points and five rebounds in the half. "Carl is such a live body," Adelman said. "Hes young and aggressive and quick. Carl has the ability to play in this league. He just needs the minutes and the time." Adelman put his starters back in near the two-minute mark and the Rockets led 65-33 at the break. It was a season-high point total for Houston in a half and the most the Timberwolves had given up in a half all season. "We were playing at a very high level," Adelman said. "We were making shots. We didnt do anything wrong." Minnesota had only three assists, shot 33 per cent (12-of-36) and were outrebounded 31-15 in the half. Houstons starters played most of the third quarter and continued to shred the Timberwolves defence with sharp passes and easy layups. Minnesota scored 20 points in the quarter, but the Rockets scored 18 and led 87-56 heading to the fourth. Notes: Minnesota went 0-for-6 from three-point range, the first time since Feb. 4, 2006, that the Wolves failed to make a three-pointer in a game. .. Shane Battier has blocked a shot in 13 consecutive games. .. Jones said Wells took a painkilling injection and is expected to practice on Saturday. Kobe Bryant Jersey. The Alberta native posted six goals and 10 points in 80 games last season for Tampa. In 169 games over three years, all with the Lightning, the 23-year-old had 11 goals, 20 points and 162 penalty minutes. ´ ´ ´

Defending champion Novak Djokovic

New Orleans, LA (Sports Network) - The New Orleans Saints agreed to terms with free agent safety Darren Sharper on Wednesday. Chauncey Billups Jersey . Terms of the deal were not released. The 33-year-old veteran of 12 NFL seasons leads all active players with 54 interceptions and has been bestowed with four Pro Bowl selections. He is tied for fifth in NFL history with eight interception returns for touchdowns and has two more via fumble recoveries. Sharper spent the past four seasons in Minnesota and recorded 78 tackles with just one interception and five passes defensed in starting all 16 regular- season games and the NFC North champion Vikings wild card loss to Philadelphia last season. The William & Mary product was originally a second-round choice of Green Bay in the 1997 NFL Draft and went on to play eight seasons for the Packers before signing with the Vikings as a free agent in 2005. Over 183 career regular- season games, 167 of them starts, Sharper has 992 tackles, 140 passes defensed, nine forced fumbles and seven sacks. In 10 career postseason contests, including seven starts, he has accumulated 50 tackles, 10 passes defensed 2 1/2 sacks, two interceptions and two forced fumbles. Russell Westbrook Jersey . Defending champion Novak Djokovic, third-seeded Andy Murray of Britain and No. 4 Robin Soderling of Sweden all joined Federer in the third round. DeSean Jackson Jersey . - It seemed like Ryan Grant came out of nowhere when he took over as the Green Bay Packers featured running back in the middle of the season. Chauncey Billups Jersey . On a mixed day for Canada at the Games, there was heartbreak for Diane Roy of Hatley, Que., who was forced to return her gold medal in the womens 5,000 metres after the International Paralympic Committee ordered a re-run of the race that was marred by a dramatic crash. Julio Jones Jersey . - Valentina Shevchenko of Ukraine won the womens 10-kilometre cross-country ski race at the Alberta World Cup on Friday. Robert Griffin III Jersey . Jonas Hiller (Switzerland) - Hiller survived another shootout on Tuesday. This time it was a 3-2 win over Belarus in which he made 20 saves. Saku Koivu (Finland) - Had two assists in the Preliminary Round. Will play the Czech Republic on Wednesday. Corey Perry (Canada) - Perry had four shots on goal in an 8-2 win. Scott Niedermayer (Canada) - Niedermayer had a breakaway goal as Canada topped Germany. Bobby Ryan (USA) - Ryan had a goal, an assist and was a plus-3 in the Preliminary Round. Will play Switzerland on Wednesday. Teemu Selanne (Finland) - Registered two assists and led Finland with 15 shots on goal in the Preliminary Round. Will play the Czech Republic on Wednesday. Ryan Whitney (USA) - Logged 28:21 of ice time in the Preliminary Round. Will play Switzerland on Wednesday. Atlanta Thrashers Maxim Afinogenov (Russia) - Afinogenov had an assist and was a plus-1 in the Preliminary Round. Will play Canada on Wednesday. Tobias Enstrom (Sweden) - Enstrom had an assist and was a plus-1 in the Preliminary Round. Will play Slovakia on Wednesday. Pavel Kubina (Czech Republic) - Kubina was a plus-1 with one shot on goal in the Czech Republics 3-2 overtime win against Latvia. Johnny Oduya (Sweden) - Oduya led Sweden with 12 PIM in the Preliminary Round. Will play Slovakia on Wednesday. Ondrej Pavelec (Czech Republic) - Pavelec did not play in the Czech Republics 3-2 overtime win against Latvia. Boston Bruins Patrice Bergeron (Canada) - Bergeron was a minus-1 in Canadas 8-2 win. Zdeno Chara (Slovakia) - Chara had an assist and five shots in a team-high 21:59 of ice time in Slovakias 4-3 win against Norway. David Krejci (Czech Republic) - Krejci netted the game-winning overtime goal and added an assist in the Czech Republics 3-2 win against Latvia. Miroslav Satan (Slovakia) - Satan scored the winner in Slovakias 4-3 win against Norway. Marco Sturm (Germany) - Sturm finished a minus-1 in an 8-2 loss to Canada. Tim Thomas (USA) - Thomas yielded to starter Ryan Miller for all three Preliminary Round games. Will play Switzerland on Wednesday. Buffalo Sabres Jochen Hecht (Germany) - Hecht had one shot and was a minus-1 against Canada. OTTAWA - In the end, the Pittsburgh Penguins were just too much for the Ottawa Senators to handle. The Penguins scored four unanswered goals on their way to a 4-3 victory over the Senators Saturday night, winning their Eastern Conference quarter-final series 4-2. Pascal Dupuis scored the game winner at 9:56 of overtime, beating Senators goalie Pascal Leclaire with a quick wrist shot. That Leclaire, he played well and didnt give us much all night, said Penguins defenceman Kris Letang. It was probably going to be a shot like that or a rebound that was going to beat him. Home ice was not a huge factor in this series as the Penguins had won just once at Mellon Arena and the Senators were winless at Scotiabank Place. Last year on the way to the Stanley Cup the Penguins closed out all of their series on the road. We get down 3-0, but we draw on the experience of last game and last year and stuck with it and did the things that we needed to do and stayed confident, said Pittsburghs Matt Cooke. This is a different year and you still have to go out and accomplish it again. The Penguins admitted they were more than a little happy to end the series in six games rather than having to return home for a seventh. The extra few days rest will go a long way in resting some weary bodies after the triple overtime of Game 5. Cooke, with two goals, and Bill Guerin scored for the Penguins. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 28 shots. The Senators top line showed signs of life as Matt Cullen and Daniel Alfredsson each scored, but it wasnt enough. Chris Neil also scored for Ottawa. It seems like we had momentum and we were playing great to start the game, but then we start to sit back a little bit too much, said Ottawas Jason Spezza. It just makes it real frustrating. You get that lead and its human nature to maybe get a little too passive as a group. Its just tough losing that way when you have a lead like that. After the game Alfredsson admitted he had been playing with a torn abdominal muscle. Leclaire made 38 saves in just his second playoff start. He is winless at home since December 31st - a 3-2 win over the New York Islanders. Its disappointing, but I think we did fight hard to get back in the series, said Leclaire. We played a pretty solid team. They won last year and definitely know how to win. While Crosby dominated the series with 14 points, he was held pointless in Game 6 and was on the ice for all three Ottawa goals. Weve got to be responsible out there, said Crosby. Much like Game 5, the Senators dominated play in the first period and came out with a 1-0 lead on a breakaway goal by Cullen at 5:19. Leclaaire continued his solid play and made a number of key saves, none as big as the one on Michael Rupp that required an extensive review to determine whether the puck had crossed the goal line. Pau Gasol Jersey. . The Senators third line continued to produce as Neil picked up his third goal of the series before the second period was two minutes old. Chris Kelly had a chance in front, forcing Fleury to lunge forward and Neil picked up the rebound, lifting it over Fleurys right leg. The Penguins had a brief scare as Crosby left the game after colliding with Anton Volchenkov and falling on Leclaires skate, but he returned shortly thereafter. Ottawa jumped out to a 3-0 lead midway through the period when Alfredsson found himself all alone with the puck, beating Fleury glove side. I think with the team that we have we cant quit, said Fleury. No matter what the score is we have some good players in this room and we always have got to believe that we can come back and we did a good job tonight. The Penguins scored 68 seconds later as Cooke was able to dig the puck out from a scramble just above the crease. Cooke quickly slipped it behind Leclaire to make it 3-1. Ottawa believed it had regained its three-goal lead with just under four minutes remaining, but once again the goal was called back after review as the net was off its moorings before the puck crossed the line. The Penguins made it 3-2 with a power-play goal at the seven-minute mark of the third. Guerin beat Leclaire over the shoulder while the Sens goalie was forced to play with a regular stick after his had broken in half earlier on the power play. Cooke scored his second to tie the game with just under eight minutes remaining in regulation. Leclaire made the first save on Mark Eaton, but was unable to get across in time to stop Cooke. Experience definitely came into play for the Penguins on this night as they maintained composure and confidence despite falling behind early. Even tonight we left the first two periods behind and came out with our best in the third, said Jordan Staal. It just shows the character on this team. Notes: The Senators were without D Filip Kuba (lower body, season), LW Milan Michalek (knee, season), RW Alex Kovalev (knee, season). RW Jonathan Cheechoo, RW Ryan Shannon and D Brian Lee were healthy scratches. The Penguins were without D Jordan Leopold (head, day-to-day), D Ben Lovejoy, D Deryk Engelland, LW Ruslan Fedotenko, RW Eric Godard were healthy scratches. RW Chris Conner was recalled from the Penguins Scranton Wilkes-Barre affiliate Friday and was in the lineup. ... Olympic gold medallist John Morris of the Canadian mens curling team was on hand for the game. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Trustee Irving Picard said in a new version of a lawsuit he first filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Manhattan in December that Madoff made the interest- and cost-free bridge loan to the Mets owners to aid the purchase of the broadcast rights for the Mets from Cablevision. Picard said the transaction was documented by a single-letter agreement on Mets letterhead that falsely described the loan as an "investment" by Madoffs wife in the company. ´ ´ ´

The votes are in and Matt Cassel and

The votes are in and Matt Cassel and the New England Patriots have the masses stamp of approval for their game Sunday against the New York Jets. DeSean Jackson Jersey . It wasnt close. The final tally in the "Who will win the AFC East showdown" poll was Patriots 64%, Jets 36%. Now they just have to play the game. Anyway, here are a few of the responses we got to the most recent Patriots/Jets whos going to win column. Some strong points were raised but they still have to play the game. Enjoy the fun on Sunday. Before everyone one jumps on the Jet-wagon, perhaps we should keep in mind that it was a little known Tom Brady who stepped in for the seasoned vet Drew Bledsoe, only to lead his team to the dream championship game. This is the same New England team for all intents and purposes. Last week saw a close game between the Jets, and the one-game winner Dolphins (a team with virtually nothing doing on the ground). The Pats boast a stellar offensive line, and have proven veterans in virtually all positions. Cassel surpassed Bradys numbers in no time against the Chiefs and still managed to drop a ball into the hands of the walk-on-water Randy Moss. Ill take the Pats by a TD, and wont look back. Nick What a great game it was suppose to be, the rematch, the emotion of the spy gate, Favre vs Brady. well that came to an end Sunday early afternoon. Patriots fans holding their breath as they saw there leader to the ground. I admit, I paniced seeing Tom down, (no he wasnt it my fantasy pool) but as a loyal Patriots fan, after last season we needed him. But I think Cassel can honeslty do the job, if Brady replaced Bledsoe and won a superbowl, why cant Cassel do it also. And to correct Brett Favre: THE PATRIOTS ARENT THE TEAM TO BEAT, WE GOT NOTHING TO BE AFFRAID OF. sorry Matt. GO PATRIOTS. REBECCA I think it will be close and on the low scoring side. Matt Cassel will have troubles with the New York crowd and it might take him a while to get anything going and that will be the difference. Jets by a field goal. Chris (DC: Fair enough of an assessment, you have to figure hell be a bit rattled at the start) This weekend is huge could mean making the playoffs for one team and not for the other and its week 2, but in the end you got to look at the Patriots still as the team to beat, and I dont think the Jets have what it takes to take them down, Way to much power on the NE offence and not nearly enough Jets power to stop them, Matt C. will look good this weekend, Pats by 7. Tyler S. With or without Brady the Pats are still a championship team and it will be interesting to watch this upcoming matchup. The Pats by 3! Wayne So here it is, the first big media hype matchup of the new season in NFL football. Well, the game will not live up to that hype and heres why, the Jets will keep the pressure on Cassell for the entire time hes in the game and once they force a turnover or two, Favre will take it from there. The New Englanders are use to have Mr. Cool Brady under center and when they see the new guy falling apart they will pack it in. Start dialing the phone now, time to call up Dante after this one. NYJ 27, NEP 13 Jerry D (DC: You might not be giving the Pats enough credit) Patriots are still a very dangerous team with great defense and an almost unbreakable offensive line. They can still win with the running game. Pats win 20 – 13. Gord I think Favre gives the Jets a realistic comfort level with his tremendous experience in the NFL. No matter what QB the Pats put in there they will not be the same w/o Brady. They may not break the .500 level for wins. Mervy (DC: You hate to see a player go down for the season but the AFC East has become a whole lot more interesting since) Jets go into a home game pumped, Patriots reeling off of their loss. Big game this early. Whos going in with the best attitude? Cassel vs Favre. Jets at home. NY Fans. Intangibles all go to the Jets here. These advantages alone gets you an extra 10 points here. Patriots arent going anywhere without a stellar QB. Not a chance even if Cassel can complete a full game without too many errors. He is no Brady and that will slow them up. Patriots struggle this season regardless of the hype. Jim I strongly believe that the New England Patriots will beat the New York Jets and not only that but without Brady I think the Pats will be third in their division. GO PATS GO James Gowdy - Kingston, Ont GDay from Western Australia! I caught the final score! Wow! It mustve been an exciting game! Here in Australia, we dont here much about sports in North America! Unless the sport involves cricket, rugby or Aussie Rules Football, or Division One football to satisfy the "Brits", we dont hear much about it! Too bad about Tom Brady! He seems like a classy guy! Im sure hell bounce back! Cheers Rick (DC: This reply came in on September 26th and while it was attached to the piece from that week, I figured it really fit here. With that said Im guessing Im the only person wholll ever read this explanation note. If you have just read it, all the best) Jets. THANK-YOU AND HAVE A GREAT DAY Ed (DC: I guess that means hes taking the Jets. While Im sure the bulk of it was Eds signature, it seemed like a natural way to end off. See you in the next edition) Elton Brand Jersey . Ryan Russell et Alexander Avtsin ont aussi eu du succès lors des tirs de barrage pour les Bulldogs, alors que Marco Rosa a répliqué pour le Moose. Le gardien des Bulldogs Robert Mayer a résisté à Jeff Tambellini au quatrième tour pour donner la victoire aux siens. Sean Lee Jersey . 1 ranking by rallying to beat Kristina Barrois of Germany 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 in the second round of the Open Gaz de France on Wednesday. Derrick Rose Jersey . As part of its multi-faceted sustainability initiative NHL Green, the National Hockey League will partner with the host Hurricanes, the City of Raleigh, the Natural Resources Defense Council, Rock and Wrap It Up! and North Carolina State University to minimize the environmental impact from the various All-Star Weekend festivities Jan. Manu Ginobili Jersey . The 44-year-old Spaniard, who played in seven Ryder Cups and was Europes vice-captain for the last two matches, was appointed captain on Tuesday. He succeeds Colin Montgomerie, who guided Europe to a 14 1/2-13 1/2 victory at Celtic Manor, Wales, in October. Tony Parker Jersey . Vancouver is 2-0 against the Flames this year, winning a test on the road and in Calgary to begin the six-game season series between the clubs. The Canucks have won three of four and seven of the last 10 meetings and Calgary has lost four of five and six of eight in Vancouver.Foxboro, MA (Sports Network) - New England Patriots safety Rodney Harrison has decided to retire after 15 seasons in the NFL. Harrison spent the last six seasons with New England after playing his first nine years with San Diego. He won a pair of Super Bowl titles with the Patriots. "Today is a very exciting day for me," said Harrison, who first joked with reporters during a conference call that he signed a new two-year deal with the Patriots. "I had the opportunity and privilege to play in this league for a long time," Harrison added. "Ive done everything I can possibly do on the field. I feel like I have nothing else to prove." Harrison finished his career with 1,205 tackles, 34 interceptions and 30 1/2 sacks, becoming the only player in NFL history to notch 30 sacks and 30 picks in a career. He was also among the most-fined players in league history, incurring numerous financial penalties because of borderline dirty hits. "People have called me a dirty player, Im a very passionate player," Harrison noted. "I cared for other players, I respected players, I loved the players in this league. Elton Brand Jersey. I also understand this is not volleyball. This is a very violent and physical game. If you hit someone in the mouth, theyre not going to be your friend." Harrison was placed on injured reserve and missed the final 10 games last season because of a torn quad muscle in October. It marked the second time in four years that Harrisons season was cut short by injury. In 2005, he played just three games before a knee injury ended his campaign. The 36-year-old, hard-hitting veteran said he had some interest from other teams this spring before making his decision to retire. "I really didnt have that fire anymore," Harrison remarked. "After 15 years of playing the way I played, just being able to lead a healthy lifestyle [was most important]." Harrison was often outspoken during his playing days and will continue to talk in his next profession as part of NBC Sports NFL coverage. He was a member of NBCs broadcast team at Super Bowl XLIII this past February. Kobe Bryant Jersey. And the same outcome. Valuev regained the WBA championship early Sunday using his left jab to outpoint Ruiz in an unanimous decision. The fight was first declared a split decision, but the score was officially later changed to give Valuev all three of the judges votes. ´ ´ ´

Sixth-seeded Mirza had been one of only two

CHESTER, Pa. Robert Griffin 3 Jersey . - Mens professional outdoor soccer will make its return to the Philadelphia area in 2010 after a three-decade absence. Major League Soccer officials and Gov. Ed Rendell announced plans for the league to set up a new franchise along the waterfront of Chester, a once-proud manufacturing city trying to turn its fortunes around. Timing in life is everything and the time is right today to bring soccer to Philadelphia, said Nick Sakiewicz, chief executive officer and operating partner of the team. State officials hope the franchise will be a key part of a US$414-million revitalization effort for the waterfront of Chester, an economically struggling city southwest of Philadelphia. Earlier this month, Rendell announced $47 million in public funding for the 18,500-seat, soccer-only stadium. The rest of the plan calls for a convention centre as well as commercial, retail and residential space. Rendell noted that there has been criticism of using public funds for the stadium, but he said the impact of the sports franchise on the troubled citys psyche could not be quantified. Other than a brief interlude by a womens pro team that was part of the now-defunct Womens United Soccer Association, the area has not had a pro outdoor team since the Philadelphia Fury ended its three-year stay in 1980. Previously, the Philadelphia Atoms played in the city from 1973-76. Ndamukong Suh Jersey . Sixth-seeded Mirza had been one of only two seeds remaining in the main draw at the start of the tournaments third day but, by the end, No. Robert Griffin Jersey . Should it come down to the ballot box, then Carpentier is hoping to give fans some added incentive for voting for him. "If we dont race our way in, I promised I would run naked down pit road if they voted me in," says the former open-wheel racer. 2012 Atlanta Falcons Nike Jersey . "After talks with the coach and players, I have decided not to play against India," said Djokovic, who upended Roger Federer in last weeks marquee finale in Dubai and captured a second career Aussie Open title in January. "I hope that my decision doesnt upset you (Serbian fans), and that you give support to our boys in their attempt to bring further success to Serbian tennis, regardless of my decision. DeSean Jackson Jersey . The Romania international was carried off in the second half of Inters 1-0 win over Chievo Verona on Wednesday following a clash of heads with opposing striker Sergio Pellissier. Mario Chalmers Jersey . Marcus Denmon supplied 13 points, five rebounds and four steals while Kim English contributed 12 points, five boards and four assists for the Tigers (17-3, 3-2 Big 12), who have won two straight since a two-point overtime loss to Texas A&M last Saturday. WASHINGTON -- US President Barack Obama is applauding Pakistan and Afghanistan for their commitment to helping the US fight terrorists holed up in their territory, but he also is cautioning that the path to success is slow and unsure. Afghan President Hamid Karzai (C) and US Vice President Joe Biden (L) look on as US President Barack Obama (R) makes a statement to reporters at the White House in Washington, May 6, 2009. Also present was Pakistans President Asif Ali Zardari. [Agencies] The road ahead will be difficult, Obama said Wednesday after a series of meetings with Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari that yielded few announced new commitments. There will be more violence, and there will be setbacks. Obama added, The United States has made a lasting commitment to defeat al-Qaida, but also to support the democratically elected sovereign governments of both Pakistan and Afghanistan. That commitment will not waver, and that support will be sustained. Obamas national security adviser, Gen. Jim Jones, told reporters later that Obama was clear in his support for Zardari, who has come under heavy US criticism for doing too little to combat a Taliban insurgency. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, for example, told Congress last week that Pakistan was abdicating to the Taliban extremists. The president pledged to do whatever we could, to do what we can as quickly as possible to help the Pakistani government, and said this type of aid would not just be restricted to military, Jones said. Miracles will not happen, so this wont happen quickly. But with a common focus, we can make strides hopefully in the near future. Wednesdays meetings, which began at the State Department and then moved to the White House, had thee added complication of reports that US airstrikes on Sunday had killed dozens of civilians in western Afghanistan. Thaddeus Young Jersey. The top US commander in Afghanistan suggested that the Taliban might be to blame, but Obama and Clinton felt compelled to respond sympathetically. Related readings: Hu, Obama talk on phone about flu epidemic Obama to press Pakistan on fight against Taliban Obama administration seeks $63B for world health New Obama plan will target tax havens Obama expressed US regret, promising to make every effort to avoid further tragedies as allied forces press the fight against a rising Taliban insurgency. Obama also used the occasion to laud unprecedented cooperation between Afghanistan and Pakistan, which share a long, poorly demarcated and porous border. Along the border, where insurgents often move freely, we must work together with a renewed sense of partnership to share intelligence and to coordinate our efforts to isolate, target and take out our common enemy, Obama said in a statement delivered at the White House with Karzai and Zardari at his side. Obama took no questions from reporters and neither of the other leaders spoke. Obama met separately with Karzai and Zardari, followed by a three-way session. The latest report of Afghan civilian casualties came at an especially awkward time for the administration, which is stepping up its military campaign inside Afghanistan while also seeking to emphasize the importance of nonmilitary efforts to stabilize the country. The administration has pledged, for example, a major increase in civilian expertise in farming and other specialties. Previous page 1 2 Next Page Previous page 1 2 Next Page Kobe Bryant Jersey. Francisco went 3-5 with a 3.13 earned run average with 26 walks and 83 strikeouts in 58 appearances during the 2008 season. For his career, he has gone 9-8 with a 3.72 ERA in 170 games, walking 94 and striking out 198. ´ ´ ´

Blatter said Tuesday he was sending a "clear and clean message

BALTIMORE -- The Baltimore Orioles have formally announced the hiring of Dan Duquette as executive vice-president of baseball operations. 2012 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Nike Jersey . Duquette signed a three-year contract on Sunday. He will be introduced to the media in a news conference Tuesday morning. The 53-year-old Duquette will attempt to bring the Orioles out of their run of 14 successive losing seasons. He takes over for Andy MacPhail, who stepped down from the post last month. Duquette has not worked in a major league front office since 2002. He has served as general manager for the Montreal Expos and Boston Red Sox. He was one of six people to interview for the job. Brian Orakpo Jersey . The 49-year old Johnson took over as the head coach of the Norfolk Admirals of the American Hockey League at the end of the 2009-10 season, finishing with a record of 15-5-0-2 in his 22 games behind the bench. Drew Brees Jersey .Y. -- The Buffalo Sabres finalized their 23-man roster Wednesday by assigning goalie Jhonas Enroth to Portland of the American Hockey League. Robert Griffin III Jersey . Richie Gordon added 11 points for Western Carolina (3-4). Kyle Gaillard netted 11 points in the loss for William & Mary (2-4), as he was the only double-digit scorer in defeat. Western Carolina led 36-17 at intermission after scoring 20 points off 11 first-half turnovers by William & Mary. Michael Vick Jersey . Blatter said Tuesday he was sending a "clear and clean message" to the French government and President Sarkozy, who has said he would personally lead investigations into Les Bleus dismal showing at the World Cup. Jason Witten Jersey . The two-time Pro Bowl quarterback, who wanted to try to play last week despite the broken pinkie on his throwing hand, said Wednesday he now doesnt expect to play again until at least mid-November.Top Canadians: The Argos need defensive end Ricky Foley to shake off last years groin injury and regain the form that made him the leagues Top Canadian in 2009. Meanwhile, linebacker Kevin Eiben remains one of the CFLs leading tacklers, but the clubs newfound ratio flexibility means that imports may challenge him for playing time this season. Breakout Canadians: The Boatmen hope that wideout Spencer Watts performance (6 receptions, 140 yards, 2 touchdowns) in the season finale is a sign of things to come. Right tackle Chris Van Zeyl was another of the Double Blues pleasant surprises a year ago. Other Potential Canadian Starters: SB Andre Durie, OG Cedric Gagné-Marcoux, OC Dominic Picard, OG Taylor Robertson, LB Jay Pottinger, WR Mike Bradwell Canadians To Watch: Like Eiben, middle linebacker Pottinger will be in a dogfight with a hungry pack of Americans to keep his job while 2010 first rounder Joe Eppele is expected to challenge veteran Taylor Robertson at guard. Robert Griffin Jersey. Top Canadian Rookies:Toronto continues to build non-import depth at receiver, as hard working Djems Kouamé and speedy Jedd Gardner join the mix this season. With the retirement of defensive tackle Adriano Belli, draft choices Gregory Alexandre and Zander Robinson have an opportunity to crack the lineup as backup D-Linemen. In The Pipeline: In addition to established NFLers OT Nick Kaczur and LB Cory Greenwood, the Argonauts hope that a pair of highly regarded offensive tackles, 2011 first-round pick Tyler Holmes and 2010 fourth-rounder Joel Reinders, will find their way to Toronto sooner than later. As long as they dont all follow the lead of 2006 Argo picks Dan Federkeil and Clifton Dawson, who both retired after brief NFL careers, the Boatmen should be okay. Kobe Bryant Jersey. The hard-serving Raonic lost his opening match 7-6 (7-5), 7-5 to Indias Somdev Devvarman. The No. 31-ranked Raonic -- who earned his first career ATP title earlier this year -- couldnt get past his first hurdle at Crandon Park after receiving a bye. ´ ´ ´

Reimer is winless (0-2-1) since returning

PITTSBURGH - Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was limping due to left knee discomfort during an optional team practice Wednesday, but did not appear to be injured. Josh Freeman Jersey . Roethlisberger, who led the Steelers to two Super Bowl victories the last four seasons, had some problem walking when he left the teams training complex but his knee was not bandaged. Roethlisberger left the field during the Steelers morning practice after the problem developed, and was examined along the sideline by trainer John Norwig. Roethlisberger apparently did not need any medical attention and began stretching his leg before practice ended. Neither Roethlisberger nor coach Mike Tomlin discussed Roethlisbergers problem, and Tomlin said there would be no update. Roethlisberger is scheduled to play golf Friday in an event at Bethpage Black, the site of this months U.S. Open. Jason Witten Jersey . Dmitriy Fofonov tested positive for a "very heavy dose" of heptaminol after Thursdays 18th stage, said Pierre Bordry, the head of Frances anti-doping agency. Fofonov was immediately fired by his Credit Agricole team. A French police official, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the case, said Fofonov was arrested at his teams hotel and held for questioning. 2012 Washington Redskins Nike Jersey . The 24-year-old has appeared in six games over the last two seasons with the Bucs and has rushed for 11 yards on four handles. He also has one catch for seven yards. Rookie LeGarrette Blount and second-year pro Kregg Lumpkin are expected to provide running back depth behind starter Carnell Williams. Marques Colston Jersey . PAUL, Minn. Dwyane Wade Jersey . Gratton suffered the tear in November, but has played through the injury since then. "Chris Gratton has been the ultimate team player in trying to soldier on and battle through the pain of this injury," Feaster said. 2012 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Nike Jersey . Reimer is winless (0-2-1) since returning from a six-week absence due to concussion-like symptoms. The Maple Leafs dropped a 4-2 decision to the hosting Washington Capitals on Friday.In different professions, learning on the job has various names - internship, residency, fellowship, on-the-job training and many others. No matter the name, the 2009 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series presented by Mobil 1 is little more than a glorified test session for Dexter Stacey. At 16 years of age, Stacey (No. 55 WJS Motorsports Pontiac) is on the track to increase his base of knowledge in stock cars, tracks and how to race. Therefore, its not about winning and losing, but rather how much can he learn while on the track. "Sure, it would be nice to be up front and win a race, but thats not what were here for," he said. The philosophy is this: Race the full season, visit all the tracks, learn everything possible and stay within a budget before making purchases and plans with questions having unknown answers. "If we do this for a year, then well have a better idea of what exactly we need and what fits what we do," said Stacey, racing out of Kahnawake, Que., a town located in Mohawk Indian territory along the St. Lawrence river.Next year is for keeps according to the youngster. "Were going to buy a couple new cars this winter and put together a solid engine program to race for points next year." Despite not having the best equipment available, Stacey has spent far more time on the track as opposed to off it this season. None of the performances have been anything to write home about, but his depth of knowledge grows by the minute. Thaddeus Young Jersey. "Weve learned a lot this year," Stacey said. "And were really looking forward to next year." Stacey also noted that several other people have helped them along this year—his fellow NASCAR Canadian Tire Series competitors. "Everybody has been great all year. They loan us stuff, they give us stuff. If we cant figure something out, they tell us how they do it. I really cant thank all of them enough," Stacey said. Stacey has a goal of being a top-10 team next season, but that is a short-term goal and as lofty as that may be, his long-term goal is reaching for the stars. "When I turn 18, I want to start moving up and get to the big leagues," he stated. By big leagues, he means the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Youth is not wasted on this energetic young man nor is he lacking in confidence. Take a walk through the garage area at a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event; its hardly a unique combination. Fast FactsThe Race: Komatsu 300 The Place: Riverside Intl Speedway, Antigonish, N.S.The Date: Saturday, Sept. 19The Time: 7 p.m. ETTV Schedule: TSN, Sept. 26, 2 p.m. ETTrack Layout: .333-mile ovalRace Purse: $88,563 CAD2008 Winner: Don Thomson Jr.2008 Pole: JR FitzpatrickSchedule: Practice 1:30-2:30 p.m.; Qualifying 5 p.m. Kobe Bryant Jersey.1 million in unpaid income tax. The court rejected Sanchez-Vicarios assertion that she was a resident of Andorra and not Spain from 1989 to 1993. ´ ´ ´

Sarah has always been the light of the

LIENZ, Austria -- American skier Sarah Schleper produced her trademark roar at the start of a World Cup race for the last time, before leisurely skiing down the Hochstein course in a coffee-coloured minidress, carrying a camera and picking up her three-year-old son Lasse midway through her run. Drew Brees Nike Jersey . Schleper, who competed in four Winter Olympics, said Thursdays slalom was the last World Cup race of her career. The 32-year-old Schleper retired after 15 years and 186 races since making her World Cup debut in her native Vail, Colorado, in 1995. "I love travelling, but it has become just a little bit too much stress," Schleper said half an hour after her final run, still wearing just the minidress despite the freezing temperatures. "The pressure of every race was getting to me. I felt it was time to let it go." Schleper decided a few months ago that she was going to call it a career as soon as 2011 ended. "I am definitely going to miss racing, I still love being in the starting gate, I still love racing and competing, I love all the girls on tour," she said. "But I didnt feel myself getting faster anymore. That was the time for me to pull the plug." In her career, Schleper has won one race -- a slalom in Lenzerheide, Switzerland in 2005 -- and had three more podium finishes, all between 2000-05. She holds five national titles -- four in slalom, the other in giant slalom. Her best results in major events were seventh in the Santa Caterina downhill at the 2005 world championships and 10th in the slalom at the 2006 Turin Olympics. She skipped the 2007-08 season to give birth to her son. Now shes looking forward to spend more time with Lasse and her husband Federico. "I want to make my family a little bit bigger and really focus on my kids and make sure they get the opportunities that I have had," said Schleper, adding her farewell was emotional. "I have been crying a lot. Last night we had a team meeting and I cried. My team is like my family. To have to leave them behind and not seeing them all the time, is one the hardest things." The U.S. womens team will miss Schleper as well, Lindsey Vonn said. "Sarah has always been the light of the team, always smiling, always happy, always funny," Vonn said. "She just brings so much energy to the team. I tried to convince her to stay on the World Cup but she says its her time. We wish her the best with whatever shes going to do in the future. "Its not going to be the same without her." Looking back on her career, Schleper said one of her outstanding memories didnt actually involve her. "One of my biggest memories is when Julia (Mancuso) won the gold (in the giant slalom at the 2006 Olympics)," she said. "Just being her teammate and being there for her was really exciting. Of course I wanted to win a medal but to be able to live it through her was awesome." Rather than individual moments, Schleper said she would most remember the ups and down of her career. "Its the journey, all of it. My journey has been incredible." Calvin Johnson Nike Jersey . Nolasco (14-8) allowed five hits, walked one and struck out nine for the Marlins, who snapped a four-game slide. Jose Veras tossed two frames and Clay Hensley worked the ninth to finish the six-hit shutout. Tony Parker Jersey . Brian Ching tallied his first goal of the season shortly before halftime, but the Rapids answered midway through the second half from as Omar Cummings leveled the match with 20 minutes to play. However, Colorados Ugo Ihemelu was called for handling the ball inside his own area in the 85th minute, and De Rosario held his nerve from the spot to secure three points for the defending MLS champions. Robert Griffin III Jersey .C. -- The Boston Bruins played an entire season to get to this point: a winner-take-all Game 7 in their building. Marshawn Lynch Jersey . The duo defeated Thiemo de Bakker of the Netherlands and Dmitry Tursunov of Russia 3-6, 6-3, 10-5 in the first round of doubles at the Brisbane International on Tuesday. Ray Allen Jersey . Pryor, coming off a sophomore season in which he led the Buckeyes to an 11-2 finish, including a Rose Bowl victory over Oregon, completed 17-of-25 passes. Brandon Saine added 103 yards on the ground and two scores for Ohio State, which has won at least a share of the Big Ten title in each of the last five seasons. CANBERRA-- The worst bushfires in Australian history were still raging in Victoria and had caused widespread damage to communications infrastructure, Australias largest telecommunication company Telstra said on Monday. Related readings: Australian fire zone a crime scene 128 dead as wildfire continues to ravage Victoria Telstra said while the full extent of the damage would not be known for some time, thousands of telephone and broadband connections were down throughout affected areas, Telstra said. Telstra chief executive Sol Trujillo said extra Telstra staff had been deployed from across the country and were working as quickly as possible to fix damaged network and restore essential services. Robert Griffin III Jersey. Our support staff are on the ground across all the fire- affected areas, including in the emergency relief centers, to help get people connected, he said. We are also bringing in more staff from across the country to restore our services and help our customers wherever we can, he added. Telstra also announced details of a relief package, which includes free call diversions, mobile calls charged at fixed-line rates, and free reconnections for those affected by the fires. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Ogo Adegboye netted 17 points in the win for Saint Bonaventure (8-5), while DaQuan Cook and Andrew Nicholson added 11 points apiece. Arkansas-Little Rock (8-9) was led by Daylon Guys 14 points in the loss. Solomon Bozeman scored 13 points, while Courtney Jackson added 10. ´ ´ ´

The Capitals hadnt faced Halak all season prior

MILAN, Italy - David Beckham will join AC Milan in January on a three-month loan deal from the Los Angeles Galaxy to maintain his fitness and prolong his England career. 2012 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Nike Jersey . The former England captains brief Serie A career will begin Jan. 7, but he will rejoin his Galaxy teammates in March. "He will have to go back to Galaxy by the time the MLS starts, and training before that," Milan sporting director Umberto Gandini said Thursday. "David is committed to the LA Galaxy and the MLS. Only David knows his future, but for sure he has a commitment to go back to the MLS and fulfil that." Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani said an agreement was reached Thursday with Beckhams lawyers, although a contract was still to be written. The 33-year-old midfielder is keen to play in Europe in the MLS off-season to remain match-fit and available for selection for England, which next plays a friendly at Germany on Nov. 19 before World Cup 2010 qualifying resumes in March. "What motivates any top-level footballer is the fact that playing for your national team is the greatest honor and having the potential to play in another World Cup is what every player dreams about," Galaxy coach Bruce Arena told British broadcaster Sky Sports News. "This is what really motivates him." Beckham is one appearance away from matching the record 108 for an outfield player - held by 1966 World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore. Goalkeeper Peter Shilton holds the overall England record of 125. "Milan has made a good acquisition," said England manager Fabio Capello, who also coached Beckham at Real Madrid. "In Madrid, I dropped him from the team because he signed with Los Angeles, but he continued to come and train and I put him back on the team." Beckham will likely undergo medical tests Dec. 20 and be introduced a day later, when the club will unveil his jersey number. He is set to travel with Milan to Dubai for a midwinter training camp, which includes a friendly. Beckhams first competitive game for Milan could come in the capital against AS Roma on Jan. 11. He will become the first English player to play for the club since 1987, when Ray Wilkins and Mark Hateley left the club. Beckham will join a stellar midfield at the San Siro including Italys World Cup champions Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso, plus Massimo Ambrosini, Mathieu Flamini and Clarence Seedorf. During the last MLS off-season, Beckham trained with Arsenal to keep fit, but did not play for the English Premier League club. Beckham played for Manchester United and Real Madrid before joining the Galaxy in January 2007 in a five-year deal. After resigning the England captaincy following the 2006 World Cup, Beckham was briefly dropped. Michael Jordan Jersey . Collison, still starting in placed of the injured Chris Paul, also had eight assists and seven rebounds in the Hornets fourth win in five games. David West ended with a game-high 27 points and 10 rebounds for the victors. Jennings made just 4-of-15 from the field to finish with 14 points, eight assists and seven boards for the Bucks, who have dropped two straight. San Antonio Spurs Jersey . The Capitals hadnt faced Halak all season prior to Thursday nights 3-2 overtime loss to the Canadiens in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference quarter-final series, and defenceman Mike Green admits that may have been a factor in his team only getting two of 47 shots past him. 2012 Philadelphia Eagles Nike Jersey . Underwood, agée de 27 ans, et Fisher, qui a 30 ans, ont uni leur destinée devant 250 amis et membres de la famille. ?Nous ne pouvons pas nous sentir plus chanceux de nous avoir trouvés et de partager cette journée avec nos amis et nos familles qui sont si importants pour nous?, a indiqué le couple au magazine People par voie de communiqué, quils ont signé ?Mike & Carrie Fisher. Earl Thomas Jersey . United moved three points clear at the top with 84 points and a game left to play. Uniteds only rival Chelsea has 81 points with a game in hand and plays Newcastle on Monday. DeMarcus Ware Jersey . Felix Magaths team finished the season with 69 points, two ahead of last years champion, Bayern Munich, which edged Stuttgart 2-1.LOS ANGELES -- Former Los Angeles Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda is recovering from a bacterial infection that caused the 83-year-old to be hospitalized. Team spokesman Josh Rawitch says Lasorda was resting at home Monday. He spent four days in the hospital last weeek. Jimmy Graham Jersey. Lasorda currently serves as a special adviser to Dodgers owner Frank McCourt. He retired as manager in 1996 after having a heart attack. Lasordas 20-year managerial tenure with the Dodgers included World Series titles in 1981 and 88. Kobe Bryant Jersey. The undated photo show Andy Lau (L) taking a photo with Yang Lijuan, who has been on a 13-year craze for the Hong Kong pop star. [sina.com via Andy Laus Fans Club] On March 27, 2007, Yang ended his life by jumping into the Salisbury sea in Hong Kong, one day after he managed to help his 29-year-old daughter meet her icon, Hong Kong pop star Andy Lau, leaving a posthumous letter pleading Lau to meet his daughter for another time, reported sina. ´ ´ ´

Now he has added the world championship

BERLIN -- Usain Bolt crossed the finish line, saw his record-setting time on the clock and spread his arms as if he were soaring like a bird. Frank Gore Jersey . About all this guy cant do is fly. And by saving his celebration until after the finish line this time, he showed how fast a man really can go on two feet. The Jamaican shattered the world record again Sunday, running 100 meters in 9.58 seconds at the world championships to turn his much-anticipated race against Tyson Gay into a one-man show. That was 0.11 seconds faster than the mark he set last year at the Beijing Olympics -- the biggest improvement in the 100-meter record since electronic timing began in 1968. Gay, his closest rival, broke the American mark with his 9.71 performance and still looked like he was jogging -- finishing a few big strides behind Bolt in second place. Bolts only competition these days is the clock. And when hes really trying, not hot-dogging it over the line the way he did in China, even time itself doesnt stand a chance. "I dont run for world records," said Bolt, who crossed the line with a slight breeze at his back. Yet those records always seem to find him. He thinks he can go even lower. "I know I said 9.4," Bolt said, grinning. "You never know. Ill just keep on working." Last summer at Beijing, Bolt shut his race down early, waving his arms and celebrating about 10 meters before he got to the line. Some, like Jacques Rogge of the International Olympic Committee, viewed it as a sign of bad sportsmanship. Most saw it as a welcome sigh of relief for a sport that needed some good news after years of doping and scandal. Even this week, the Jamaican track team was making headlines for the wrong reasons -- a complicated doping case. Then a group of athletes who were uninvited to the worlds by the countrys track officials because they didnt participate in team training camp got reinvited at the request of international officials. Bolt made everyone forget about that and showed, once again, what a great sport track can be when the focus is on the track, not doping control and the meeting rooms. Bolt ran his latest unforgettable race at Olympic Stadium in Berlin, the history-filled home of the 1936 Olympics where Jesse Owens became the worlds biggest track star. Bolt lives in Owens stratosphere now, having set the 100 world record three times and also owning the 200-meter record thanks to the 19.30 he ran in Beijing to break Michael Johnsons 12-year-old mark. Now he has added the world championship, last won by Gay in 2007, to his Olympic title. A team of four Norwegian scientists, including physicist Hans Eriksen, estimated he couldve gone 9.55 if hed run full out through the line in Beijing. Bolt almost made them look like geniuses. "Hes like a created game person," American Darvis Patton said. "I cant imagine going 9.71 and not winning. That will win every race in history except for today (and at the Olympics)." Its easy to see why Bolt is such a crowd favourite. Hes a colourful character who loves to entertain. The track is his stage and he didnt disappoint Sunday. Before climbing into the blocks, Bolt gave spectators a quick wave and did his trademark bow-and-arrow pose. That drew big applause. Then the real show started. Unlike the Olympics, when he skidded from the blocks, Bolt burst out this time in his yam-colored Pumas, opening a sizable lead on the field after 20 meters. From there, it could have been a stroll in the park. But there was no letting up this time. Before crossing the line, he glanced to his right to check on Gay once -- not in the picture -- and then back at the clock. His face lit up as he spotted the digits "9.58" appear on the screen next to the track. The party was on. He grabbed a flag and did a victory lap with countryman Asafa Powell, who finished with the bronze (9.84). They even stopped midway down the track and did a little dance number. Too bad the song wasnt from rapper Akon, who wrote about the sprinter in a song, the lyric going, "Quicker than Usain Bolt, the fastest thing runnin." Next came pictures -- lots of flashes popping -- and hugs as Bolt greeted everyone who called his name -- and they were numerous. The entire victory lap took about 20 minutes. Or about 19:50.42 longer than it took to run his 100. Standing back at the finish line, waiting for him to finish up, was Gay. He paced around, clearly agitated. Not in anger at losing, though. No, he wanted off the track, but wasnt allowed by an official. Gay was quite complimentary of his rival in a race that lived up to the hype. "Ive been telling you someone could run 9.5," Gay said. "Im happy he did it, it showed a human can take it to another level. Unfortunately, I wasnt the one to do it, but I still have confidence I can do it one day." Gay didnt have much of a chance. Not against Bolt. And certainly not with a groin injury that he admitted to Saturday. He said it was worse than he let on, but refused to use it as a convenient excuse. "I showed a lot of heart," Gay said. "I put it together the best I could." Powell was right beside Bolt his entire journey around the track, then through the mixed zone. For Powell, Bolt is a blessing. It takes all the pressure off his shoulders. He doesnt have to carry the weight of a country by himself. "He really knows how to perform under pressure," Powell said. "I need to take a page out of his book." That might not be a bad idea for all the sprinters. British sprinter Dwain Chambers, who tested positive for the steroid THG in 2003 and served a two-year suspension, got to see Bolts spectacle from the back of the field. It was rather enjoyable. "As you get older, you start to realize when youre put into these situations that you cant be upset," said Chambers, who wound up sixth. "You cant put that into words. Many guys said to me that its demoralizing to be apart of a world-record race. For me, it was exciting." Adrian Peterson Jersey . The 36-year-old defenseman, who signed with a Coyotes as a free agent last summer, re-upped for another two years. Alex Smith Jersey . A boy squeezes the last drop?from a mineral water bottle in Wulong county, Chongqing, on Saturday. Tim Duncan Jersey . Chinas Zheng Jie reacts during her match against Italys Mara Santangelo at the French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros stadium in Paris May 28, 2008. [Agencies] Zheng came from a set down to beat Italys Mara Santangelo 4-6, 6-3, 6-0. Nnamdi Asomugha Jersey .J. Wilson tries to pitch the Texas Rangers to a series win this afternoon when they play the rubber match of their three-game set with the Oakland Athletics at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Tim Duncan Jersey . Im kidding, of course, we can all agree on thumbs down to Montreal fans for voting for every member of the Habs except Ryan OByrne, for voting for Alex Kovalev, Saku Koivu and Alex Tanguay instead of Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin.(Sports Network) - Neither the Winnipeg Jets or New York Islanders were able to carry their momentum through the weekend. With both clubs needing all the points they can get to stay in the playoff hunt, the Jets and Isles do battle this evening looking to bounce back from losses. Viewers in the Jets region can watch the game on TSN Jets, tonight at 8pm et/7pm ct. Listen to the game on TSN Radio 1290 in Winnipeg and TSN.ca/Winnipeg. For the Jets, they scored two late goals on Thursday versus the Capitals to rally for a tie before winning the game in overtime. That was the second straight victory for Winnipeg, but it failed to keep pace with Pittsburgh on Saturday in an 8-5 defeat. The Jets got the start they wanted by getting first-period goals from Kyle Wellwood and Alexander Burmistrov, but the Penguins battled back to tie the game before periods end and notched three goals in both the second and third frames. Tim Stapleton, Dustin Byfuglien and Bryan Little all had a goal and an assist, while Ondrej Pavelec stopped 31 of the 39 shots fired his way. Even a five-goal outburst couldnt please Jets head coach Claude Noel. "I thought it was poor," said Noel. "We didnt win battles. Was there anything good out of that game?" In their first season in Winnipeg after relocating from Atlanta, the Jets will enjoy a stretch of nine of 10 at home. That includes an eight-game homestand following Thursdays rroad test in Minnesota. 2012 Washington Redskins Nike Jersey. Winnipeg is 16-8-2 at home this year and 10-17-4 on the road. The Islanders are the first to visit over that span after getting bested 4-1 at home by the Panthers on Sunday. That defeat came one day after New York recorded a 2-1 overtime triumph over Los Angeles as the Isles dropped two of three on their homestand. Frans Nielsen scored in the first for New York, but Florida answered in the frame and then scored three times in the middle stanza. Evgeni Nabokov was charged in the setback with four goals on 15 shots through two periods. Al Montoya finished the game by making four saves. "You give up two faceoff goals and a power-play goal and youre not going to win too many games," said Islanders head coach Jack Capuano. "We had some chances we didnt bury. I dont think we executed very well at all in the first period. We were chasing them the whole time in the second. The Jets franchise has won five of its past seven versus the Islanders, with the clubs splitting a pair of meetings so far this season. Winnipeg notched a 3-0 win in New York on Nov. 3, but dropped a 3-2 shootout decision to the visiting Islanders on Dec. 20. Winnipeg finds itself four points out of the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference, while New York sits further back at eight off the pace for the final postseason seed. Both clubs put forth disappointing efforts over the weekend and hope to rebound tonight. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Then I said I was going to do this thing at Fenway and they all said they are coming. Theyre hockey fans, though; it has nothing to do with seeing me. ´ ´ ´

Bill Walker added a career-high 22 points

New York, NY (Sports Network) - Al Harrington made six three-pointers on his way to 26 points while pulling down eight rebounds, as the New York Knicks handled the Detroit Pistons, 128-104, at Madison Square Garden. Matt Ryan Jersey . Bill Walker added a career-high 22 points in his first-career start for the Knicks, who snapped a six-game home skid. David Lee donated 21 points, 18 rebounds, and eight assists. Tracy McGrady ended with 21 points, eight assists, and seven boards. Eddie House tallied 17 points off the bench while Danilo Gallinari finished with 15 for New York, which won at MSG for the first time since a February 3 win against Washington. "He has provided a spark for us," McGrady said of Walker. "I am happy for the guy. I really didnt realize he was that athletic." Rodney Stuckey and Tayshaun Prince each chipped in 16 points for the Pistons, who have dropped five in a row. Jonas Jerebko tallied 15 points and 13 boards while Will Bynum added 11 points off the bench for Detroit, which fell to 7-23 on the road this season. The Knicks started the game on an 11-2 run and held a 33-23 margin after 12 minutes of action. Detroit used a 16-4 burst in the early stages of the second to tie things up. Richard Hamiltons three-pointer made it 39-all with about 8 1/2 minutes remaining. New York fought right back with a 20-4 flurry to go back in front. Walker tallied six points during the stretch, including a slam to make it a 59-43 game with four minutes to go. The score was 67-55 at the half. Trailing 77-64 near the midway point of the third, the Pistons went on an 11-3 spurt to get within five. Jason Maxiells deuce made it 80-75 with less than 3 1/2 minutes left. But New York responded with a surge of its own and was ahead 94-85 heading to the fourth. The Knicks outscored the Pistons, 34-19, in the final frame to make it a rout. "We lost our edge tonight - theres no question about it," Pistons head coach John Kuester said. "I was disappointed. Wed been playing some pretty good basketball up until tonight." Game Notes: New York was without forward Wilson Chandler due to personal reasons...Pistons center Ben Wallace missed his first game of the season because of a sore right knee...The Knicks won the season series with the Pistons, 3-1...New York improved to 13-20 at home this year...Despite the win, the Knicks are still just 3-13 in their last 16 games...New York shot 55.3 percent from the field, while Detroit made 46.1 percent of its shots. Tony Romo Jersey . Trivino assisted on Marco Scandellas goal. Trivinos linemates, Maxime Sauve and Matt Duchene, had three assists apiece. Canada outshot Denmark 43-19. Finland was scheduled to play Sweden in the late preliminary round game. Paul Pierce Jersey . The game was tied late in the second period when Shark goalie Brian Boucher made a 4-2 win possible by diving in front of Kyle Wellwoods attempt to score on a rebound. Udonis Haslem Jersey . Ajaxs defeat means AZ, which has an 11-point lead over second-placed FC Twente, cannot now be caught with only three games remaining. AZ had missed the chance to be crowned champions in front of its own fans when it lost 2-1 to Vitesse Arnhem on Saturday. Drew Brees Nike Jersey . Monday night saw the Hawks stand up to the rival Canucks at a sold out United Center, saying "enoughs enough," and earned a much-needed win to even this Western Conference Semifinal series 1-1 heading back to Vancouver. Pau Gasol Jersey . Guay was one of the skiers who benefited from an early stary number, coming out of the gate 10th, as a headwind appeared to slow down the later starters including several pre-race favourites. (Sports Network) - Adam Linds back injury no longer seems to be an issue. After all, the slugger is carrying Torontos offense right now. The surging first baseman will try to lead the Blue Jays to a 17th straight home victory over the Baltimore Orioles and a three-game sweep of this series between the teams this afternoon at Rogers Centre. Lind is batting .421 (16-for-38) in 11 games since returning from a back ailment that caused him to miss nearly a month of action. He has six homers and 14 runs batted in over that span and went deep for a second straight game in last nights 4-1 victory over the Orioles. I just really wanted to make contact. I put a good swing on it, said Lind, who is batting .337 this year after posting just a .237 average a season ago, of Wednesdays homer. Yunel Escobar and Juan Rivera also homered for Toronto, while Ricky Romero hurled eight-plus innings of one-run ball and struck out a career high-tying 12 batters to earn his sixth victory of the season and lift the Blue Jays to a second straight win. Matt Wieters drove in Baltimores lone run and Jake Arrieta gave up three runs over 6 2/3 innings as he failed in his bid to become a nine-game winner. I attacked hitters for the most part really well, said Arrieta. A consequence of that was a few base hits. Another consequence was the Orioles once again failing to win at Toronto, where they havent prevailed since Aug. 7, 2009. They have lost in 25 of their last 27 trips to Canada and are just 4-119 in the past 23 meetings overall in this series. Alex Smith Jersey. With the Blue Jays sending starter Kyle Drabek to the minors to work on his control issues, Zach Stewart will make the first start of his career this afternoon hoping to secure the sweep for Toronto. The 24-year-old righty went 4-3 with a 4.39 earned run average in 12 starts with Double-A New Hampshire this season and has pitched well recently to earn his chance in the big leagues. Zach is someone that was very close to a callup last year, Jays general manager Alex Anthopoulos told his clubs website. He has done everything we asked him to do. He hasnt been up here before, his last three starts in New Hampshire he pitched well [1-0 with a 2.37 ERA]. Just being down there and talking to the staff they feel he deserves an opportunity. Its really a good time to give him a shot, to give him a look and see how he does. Taking the hill for the Orioles is Jeremy Guthrie, who is 0-2 over his past four outings but did avoid a third straight losing start on Saturday. The right-hander held Tampa Bay to three runs on eight hits over six innings and left with the lead, but ended up with a no-decision in Baltimores 7-5 defeat in 11 innings. Guthrie, who is 2-8 with a 3.77 ERA in 14 games this year, lost to the Blue Jays in his previous outing on June 5. He was tagged for six runs over five innings, giving up homers to Escobar and Lind, and fell to 2-7 with a 3.80 ERA in 16 career starts versus Toronto. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Nilsson was nailed to the bench during the Oilers loss to Anaheim on Friday because MacTavish said the skilled forward simply was not competing hard enough. ´ ´ ´

The Ontario Hockey League has postponed Friday nig

TORONTO - The Ontario Hockey League has postponed Friday nights game between the Barrie Colts and Sudbury Wolves due to poor travel conditions. Robert Griffin III Jersey . Blowing and drifting snow has created challenging road conditions north of Barrie. The mayor of Huntsville, Ont., about 100 kilometres north of the city, declared a snow emergency after more than 50 centimetres of snow accumulated in the area. The OHL said the game will be rescheduled at a later date. Tony Parker Jersey . Not only did Goodell get through one of the leagues most contentious and troubling periods -- a 4 1/2-month lockout of the players -- but he oversaw a highly successful season once a 10-year collective bargaining agreement was reached. Alonzo Mourning Jersey .Y. -- David Marshall capped a comeback from a two-goal deficit as the Rochester Americans beat the Hamilton Bulldogs 4-3 in American Hockey League action Wednesday. Percy Harvin Jersey . The games are planned to be held every four years in staggered summer and winter events consistent with the current Olympic Games format. Some 3,600 young athletes between 14 and 18 years of age take part in the 2010 Singapore Youth Olympic Games, competing for medals in 26 sports and culture & education programs. Chris Paul Jersey . [Xinhua] BEIJING - Chinas National Meteorological Center (NMC) on Monday lowered its rainstorm alert from orange to blue -- the lowest level -- for the countrys southern regions as the storms began to abate. Reggie Miller Jersey . -- Oakland Raiders running back Darren McFadden will sit out Thursday nights game in San Diego because of a lingering ankle sprain.Kansas City, MO (Sports Network) - The Kansas City Chiefs agreed to terms with defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey on a six-year contract Saturday, ending the specter of a prolonged holdout by the fifth overall pick in Aprils draft. Per club policy, financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. "Were pleased to announce the signing of the first of our two number one draft choices," said Chiefs president Carl Peterson. "We all know Glenn is an outstanding football player and we expect and hope that he will make great contributions to the Kansas City Chiefs. Even though it took a littlee longer than we had hoped, Glenn has missed only a couple of walk-through practices and we expect hell be involved very quickly. Patrick Willis Nike Jersey. " The 6-foot-2, 316-pound Dorsey was a possible No. 1 pick, but the Dolphins went with Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long. The first-team All-America selection fell to five, allowing the Chiefs to snap him up. Dorsey compiled 69 tackles and seven sacks in 14 games for LSU last season. In 51 games (30 starts) for the Tigers, Dorsey was a dominating force on the defensive line, racking up 179 tackles, 13 sacks and 27 tackles for loss. Kobe Bryant Jersey. A decision and any announcement of a suspension will be made on Tuesday. Late in the second period, Tootoo drove hard to the net with puck, crossed through the crease and collided with Miller. A scrum ensued following the hit. ´ ´ ´

Billy Humphrey had 12 points and five assists

ALAMEDA, Calif. Robert Griffin 3 Jersey . -- The Oakland Raiders are hoping a few days of rest will be enough to get Nnamdi Asomugha back on the field. Asomugha missed practice Wednesday because of a sprained right ankle, but coach Tom Cable is hopeful the two-time Pro Bowl cornerback will be able to play in the Raiders critical AFC West showdown with first-place Kansas City on Sunday. "Hes improving, he is starting to put some weight on it," Cable said. "He and I talked this morning and well see where hes at tomorrow and again on Friday. Were trying to take every precaution right now to keep him off his feet." Asomugha injured himself early in the fourth quarter of last Sundays 35-7 win over the Seattle Seahawks when he stepped on the foot of wide receiver Golden Tate. He needed assistance leaving the field and was taken to the locker room but did not return. That left the Raiders secondary without its two starting cornerbacks. Chris Johnson did not play in the game due to the lingering effects of a concussion he sustained against Denver on Oct. 24. Johnson was cleared to return earlier this week and practiced with the starting defence Wednesday. Stanford Routt practiced in place of Asomugha, while rookie Jeremy Ware, who replaced Asomugha against Seattle, also took reps with the defence. "Its the same way you go through anything with your starting running back not going to be in or your starting receiver or middle linebacker," Routt said. "You just have to go out and play football. No matter what, the ball will get kicked off on Sunday at 1:15 p.m." That might be understating things a bit. Asomugha is widely considered one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL and has been to the Pro Bowl each of the past two seasons. Offensive co-ordinators and opposing quarterbacks routinely scheme their attack away from his side of the field. Asomugha has started all but three games over the past five seasons. The last game he missed was Dec. 28, 2008, when he sat out the season finale against Tampa Bay after getting poked in the eye the previous week. Quarterbacks Jason Campbell and Bruce Gradkowski split reps in practice with Oaklands first-team offence. Campbell has started the last two games, but Cable has said that Gradkowski -- who sat out the last three games with a shoulder injury -- remains the teams unquestioned starter when healthy. Though he took snaps with the offence during team drills, Gradkowski is still limited in practice. "He did good and hes moving forward rapidly now," said Cable, will wait until later in the week to make a decision on who will start against the Chiefs. "The question will be kind of what we talked about a few weeks ago, if he can do everything thats necessary to go out and play." Manu Ginobili Jersey . Billy Humphrey had 12 points and five assists for Georgia (17-16), which picked up the conferences automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament by winning three games in two days. Georgia got 11 points from Sundiata Gaines. Dave Bliss added eight points and 11 rebounds for the Bulldogs, who won their second conference title in school history and first since the 1983 campaign. Sean Lee Jersey . "It will be based on Samuelsson," said coach Mike Babcock. "He didnt take the morning skate so well see what happens there." Draper has sat out the last four games -- three with a suspected groin injury and the last one as a healthy scratch. San Antonio Spurs Jersey . Justin Turner and Jason Bay both had an RBI and run scored for the Mets, who bounced back from a 4-3 loss in the opener of this set on Friday. Pelfrey (4-5) gave up just one run on five hits to pick up his first complete game of the season. Miami Heat jersey . Kirilenko had five points in just under nine minutes of action before exiting and did not return. He received a cortisone injection following the contest and is considered doubtful for Wednesday nights game in Houston. Reggie Miller Jersey . However, the much higher ticket prices for high-speed trains and the skipping of quite a number of smaller stations have become grievances for many rail users. The minister of railways announced a shift in its policy this week to address these concerns.Canadian Krzysztof "The Polish Experiment" Soszynski (19-10-1) has signed on for his next bout, a light heavyweight tilt against Stephan Bonnar (14-6) at UFC 110 in Australia. Soszynski suffered the first loss of his UFC career during his last trip inside the octagon when he took on Brandon Vera at UFC 102, falling by unanimous decision. Bonnar gained fame wwhen he finished as the runner-up to Forrest Griffin on the first season of The Ultimate Fighter. Blake Griffin Jersey. . His last bout was a defeat by decision to veteran Mark Coleman at UFC 100. Soszynski also appeared on The Ultimate Fighter, losing in the semifinals on the eighth season of the reality show. UFC 110 will be held in Sydney, Australia on February 21. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Crosby scored his second goal of the game with Flyers goalie Martin Biron nowhere near the net, helping the Penguins beat Philadelphia 5-4 Saturday for their first road win in nearly six weeks. ´ ´ ´

Asian stock markets dropped Wednesday

HONG KONG – Asian stock markets dropped Wednesday, following a steep sell-off on Wall Street, as investors reacted with skepticism to the US governments latest plan to rescue the ailing financial industry with as much as $2 trillion in commitments. Tim Duncan Jersey . Traders on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Financial markets greeted the Geithner plan to rescue the troubled banking system Tuesday with a resounding thud, as analysts bemoaned a startling lack of detail to achieve its aims. [Agencies] Hong Kongs benchmark tumbled over 3 percent, while stock measures in South Korea and India fell more than 0.5 percent. Further weighing on the region were figures showing Chinas exports plunged 17.5 percent in January — the sharpest drop in more than a decade — amid the global slowdown. As in the US, investors across Asia questioned whether Americas revamped bailout program, unveiled Tuesday by Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, would be enough to absorb the bad assets saddling bank balance sheets and free up the credit markets that govern lending to consumers and businesses. Geithner said the plan to get trillions of dollars in financing flowing through the worlds largest economy was urgently needed as part of the governments effort to stave off catastrophic failure of institutions. A centerpiece involves the government teaming with the private sector to buy up to $1 trillion in souring assets from financial firms. A separate lending program would be expanded to as much as $1 trillion from $200 billion for consumers and businesses. Investors, however, complained about what they viewed as a lack of detail. Garry Evans, a chief Asian equity strategist with HSBC in Hong Kong, called the plan muddled. He said the government was skirting around what many investors have already concluded: that the US may have to nationalize the banks for a period. People are not convinced that this plan is what it is needed, Evans said. They (US officials) have still philosophically backed away from the ultimate conclusion, which is the government will have to take over financial institutions, he said. Philosophically thats quite hard for the US government to admit, but the history of banking crises shows that is what governments usually do. Not even the colossal amounts of money announced in the US are likely to make up the funding shortfall created by risky loans and other distressed assets the banks are holding, said Paul Schulte, a chief Asia equity strategist at Nomura International in Hong Kong. The financial hole could be as big as $4 trillion and US officials have yet to fully explain the scope of the problem, he said. The problem is much larger than people thought and the solutions to this much larger problem are still not coherent, Schulte said. The plan is absolutely a step in the right direction, but we have like 45 more steps to go. In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng tumbled 442.89 points, or 3.2 percent, to 13,437.75, while South Koreas Kospi lost 7.2 points, or 0.6 percent, to 1,191.75. Japanese markets were closed for a public holiday. In mainland China, Shanghais main stock measure gained 0.8 percent. Elsewhere, Australias benchmark fell 0.4 percent, Singapores stock measures shed 0.3 percent and Indias index lost 1.2 percent. Asias retreat was tame compared to Wall Streets. US markets plunged overnight as investors soured on the financial rescue and seemed to ignore the Senates approval of its $838 billion economic stimulus package. The Dow industrials fell 381.99, or 4.62 percent, to 7,888.88. Broader stock indicators also tumbled, with the Standard & Poors 500 index down 42.73, or 4.91 percent, to 827.16. It was the biggest drop for the index since the Obama inauguration on Jan. 20. Wall Street futures were up modestly, suggesting US markets could recover some at the open. Dow futures were up 32, or 0.4 percent, at 7,910 and S&P500 futures rose 2.8, or 0.3 percent, to 829.70. Asian financials, like those in the US, took a bruising. KB Financial Group Inc., the holding company for top South Korean lender Kookmin Bank, tumbled 3.7 percent. Leading Australian investment bank Macquarie Group Ltd. dropped 1.9 percent. And European heavyweight HSBC Holdings shed 4.8 percent in Hong Kong. In oil, light sweet crude for March delivery rose 63 cents to $38.18 a barrel in Asian trade. The contract fell $2.01 to settle at $37.55 overnight. In currencies, the dollar was little changed at 90.28 yen compared to 90.43 yen, while euro traded at $1.2896, down from $1.3903. Miami Heat Jersey . Travis Hafner and Ben Francisco hit back-to-back homers in the sixth inning, while Grady Sizemore added a solo shot for the Indians, who have won four in a row overall. Cleveland outscored Seattle 31-6 during the sweep, the teams second of the season, and hit 11 homers. 2012 Philadelphia Eagles Nike Jersey . Fleury, who is from nearby Sorel, Que., made 18 saves for his first shutout of the post-season to lead the Stanley Cup champion Penguins to a 2-0 playoff victory over the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday night. Manu Ginobili Jersey . 27-31 when they take on a well-rested Pittsburgh Penguins team at Consol Energy Center on Saturday. LeBron James Jersey . Having struggled so long during a career that reads like a long orthopedic report, the 30-year-old from Calgary won a World Cup downhill on a great day for Canadian skiing. Roddy White Jersey . Nesbitt ranked second to Ireen Wust of the Netherlands at the Essent ISU World All-Around Speed Skating Championships on Saturday after posting the fastest times of her life in the 500 and 3,000 metres.BARCELONA, Spain -- Maria Kirilenko will defend her Barcelona Open title against Roberta Vinci, advancing to the final with a 4-6, 6-1, 6-2 victory over fifth-seeded Carla Suarez Navarro on Saturday. After dropping the first set, the sixth-seeded Kirilenko broke Suarez Navarro on seven of her following nine chances. It was the Russians second match of the day against a Spanissh opponent. Kevin Garnett Timberwolves Jersey. Earlier she had defeated Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez 6-1, 3-6, 6-0 in a rain-suspended quarter-final. Vinci overcame fellow Italian Francesca Schiavone 0-6, 7-6 (2), 6-4. The 37th-ranked Kirilenko holds a 2-1 advantage in career matchups against Vinci after winning the last two, including their only meeting on clay at Berlin in 2006. Kobe Bryant Jersey. -- A deflected goal helped the Hamilton Bulldogs move into the second round of the American Hockey League playoffs. ´ ´ ´

Looking at the scattered house tops

Morits Skaugen, a Norwegian entrepreneur, published an article in the Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten on Oct 12, in which he credits China for its development and progress and suggests that it is China that truly deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. 2012 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Nike Jersey . Skaugen says Chinas development is the greatest economic development we have ever seen, and that it will have a profound effect on the future. It is possible that the United States and European countries will not be able to maintain their long held dominance over the world economy. This year China will likely overtake Japan to become the worlds second largest economy. However, it is still a developing nation in terms of per capita gross domestic product, which is still well below that of Japan. Related readings: Norwegian jurist calls Nobel Peace Prize wrong, illegal Nobel economics prizes focus on policy, regulation True intentions of award of Nobel Peace Prize questioned Wake up from the Nobel dream Though, during the past 20 years, the living standards of the Chinese people have been greatly improved, many are still struggling hard for a better living. Yet China has undoubtedly performed impressively in many areas, such as improving its education system, increasing productivity, constructing nuclear power plants and high-speed railways, and developing Internet technology. As for green technology, Chinese companies are striving to explore the domestic market and play a leading role in the world. Of course China still has a long way to go, and there is no denying it has many problems that will require great wisdom to solve. The past year saw workers go on strike in some cities in China for higher salaries and shorter working hours with the help of trade unions. Skaugen said according to his experience in China, such problems that do exist are not taboo and can be discussed. When Westerners blame China for this and that, they should not forget that the United States and European countries went through the same stages developing their economies - and it wasnt that long ago. It was cheap labor that propelled the rapid economic development of the West. And it is strong economic power that guarantees democracy and human rights in the Western world. China will soon complete its current development stage and enter the next with a more open and harmonious society. Some Westerners assume that changes have occurred in China only because they have put pressure on it to improve its human rights. But China never submits to any external pressure, because it is confident of its own mode of development and most Chinese are proud of the way China solves its own problems. Therefore, from this point of view, maybe it is China that truly deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. China Daily (China Daily 10182010 page8) Robert Griffin III Jersey . -- Christine Song shot a 2-under 70 in windy conditions Friday on LPGA Internationals Champions Course to increase her lead to five strokes after the third round of the LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament. Robert Griffin III Jersey . Kevin Garnett had 17 points and 14 rebounds, while Paul Pierce added 15 points and 10 assists in a well-rounded effort for a red-hot Boston team that was playing without Rajon Rondo and Shaquille ONeal. Atlanta got 26 points from Marvin Williams and shot 62 percent from the floor in the second half, but still lost by 12 to a Celtics team that is the hottest in the NBA. Andrew Bynum Jersey . [PhotoXinhua]???More Pictures FUZHOU, Jiangxi - Looking at the scattered house tops emerging from the muddy floodwater, Wang Mubao, of Wangjiacun village in Fuzhou city, East Chinas Jiangxi province, prayed for help and for his family from the roof of his two-storied house. Manu Ginobili Jersey . - Chris MacKinnon scored two goals, one assist to pace the Owen Sound Attack to a 4-2 victory over the Saginaw Spirit Wednesday in the OHL. Robert Griffin Jersey . The San Francisco Giants threatened to put the division in a virtual tie after beating Arizona, 2-0, in 11 innings earlier Monday, but the Padres ended their longest losing streak since a franchise-record 13-game string in 1994 to keep a one-game edge. Tweet VANCOUVER -- In the end, there actually was something that Shannon Szabados could not stop. A force so overwhelming that even her lightning glove hand and fast feet were powerless against it. That would be the wave of Canadian women who stormed Szabados crease as time expired and their golden dreams were fulfilled. Szabados played the game of her life in the most important game of her life, making 28 mostly spectacular saves to repel one red, white and blue rush after another and backstop Canada to a 2-0 victory over the United States on Thursday in the 2010 Olympic womens hockey gold medal game. Because she did -- and because an opportunistic, 18-year-old sniper named Marie-Philip Poulin scored two goals within 2:55 late in the first period -- Canada made it three straight Olympic gold medals following the Americans victory in the inaugural womens tournament in 1998. "This is it," Szabados said afterward, unable to stop patting the gold medal that hung around her neck. "Its what Ive worked my whole life for. Its what weve worked this whole year for. Its unbelievable." Even more so considering that Canadian coach Melody Davidson decided to turn this most pressurized of games over to the 23-year-old who has spent her whole life playing against boys and men rather than 31-year-old Kim St. Pierre, who backstopped Canada to the 2002 gold medal and also played on the 2006 gold-medal team. "Shannon is a resilient goalie," Davidson said. "I remember the first time I met with her. She said, ‘Theres only one thing I ask Mel: Can you give me one game vs. the U.S. this year? Thats all she asked." Davidson gave her THE game. Szabados gave back everything her coach could have wanted. "She was perfect," said Jayna Hefford, one of four Canadian women who have played in all four Olympic tournaments. "We had all the confidence in the world that she would play a game like this for us." Coming out of its rout of Sweden in the semifinal – in which they exorcised the ghosts of the Swedes epic upset of them in Torino – Team USA had all the confidence in the world that this was the day they evened the Olympic gold medal count at two each. Team USA played at a break-neck pace from the drop of the puck. Canada played with unnerving poise. The Americans threw everything they could at Szabados, hurtling into the Canadian zone with abandon. The Canadians relied on their superior positioning and precise passing to minimize the damage and counterattack beautifully. Patrick Willis Jersey. In the end, though, it came down to Poulins ability to appear, as if from out of thin air, twice and put pucks behind American goaltender Jessie Vetter -- and to Szabados ability to get something, anything, on everything that Monique Lamoureux, Angela Ruggiero and Co. could throw at her. "She obviously played an amazing game," Lamoureux said. "She stole the game from us." The Americans had two golden opportunities – lengthy 5-on-3 power plays midway through the first period and early in the second. They wear silver medals today largely because they couldnt cash in either time. Team USA tried to set up defenseman Molly Engstrom for big shots from the right point on the first of those two-man advantages. But Szabados wasnt going to be beaten from that far out. On the second, they tried to work the puck down low, but when Canadas never-out-of-position defense wasnt blocking shots or breaking up passes, Szabados was flashing leather – including one twisting, over-the-head flail that was one part Dominik Hasek goaltending and one part Pete Townsend windmilling guitar work. After surviving that first U.S. 5-on-3, the Canadians cashed in. At one end, Szabados made a superb glove save to stop Caitlin Cahow, who had snuck in the backdoor from her right point position. When play went the other way, the American defense got caught puck-watching and Poulin slipped into a seam on the inner rim of the left circle, took a feed from Jennifer Botterill and one-timed a perfect shot over Vetters catching glove at 13:55. Off a faceoff to Vetters left less than three minutes later, Meghan Agosta uncorked a quick shot that was blocked in front. Poulin, who had won the draw, pounced on the loose puck and squeezed it under Vetters left arm at 16:50 for the 2-0 lead that Canada protected fiercely. Team USA coach Mark Johnson might have been excused if he thought he had seen this movie before – the one about a scalding goaltender nullifying whatever the opponent could throw at him or her. But unlike 30 years ago, when he was scoring clutch goals and Jim Craig was playing the hero in goal, Johnson was on the losing side this time. "She played well," Johnson said. "She controlled her rebounds and didnt give us a lot of second and third opportunities. And thats a credit to her, coming into a pressure-filled atmosphere with obviously the weight of her country on her. And I thought she responded very well. She never cracked." Kobe Bryant Jersey. Rain was already falling in the Detroit area on Sunday morning and wet weather was forecast throughout the day. The contest has been rescheduled for Thursday, September 1. ´ ´ ´

Don Wilson, CEO of Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton

EDMONTON - The head of Canadas skeleton program says the disqualification of slider Michelle Kelly for allegedly doctoring her sled was overturned because two of the three required inspectors went home early that day. Miami Heat Jersey . Don Wilson, CEO of Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton, also said Thursday he hasnt investigated the circumstances of what went wrong, doesnt plan to, and says the inspectors wont face any discipline. "Its a moot point," he said in an interview. "Its a Sunday afternoon. They (the inspectors) have been away from home. Theyre trying to catch an airplane out. So be it. "In future, that situation would never come forward," he added. "Lesson learned if nothing else." Kelly, a former World Cup title holder and Olympian, was reinstated Tuesday to the World Cup team in time for Thursdays start of the World Cup sliding season in Park City, Utah. It was a dramatic reversal for the 35-year-old from Fort St. John, B.C., who was disqualified from the first round of selection races, held a month ago in Whistler, B.C., site of the 2010 Olympic races. A post-race inspection discovered the markings on her sled had been altered. Kelly, who won the 2003 World Championships and World Cup titles and finished 10th in the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City, was to speak publicly later Thursday for the first time about the situation. In a written statement Tuesday she said, "I feel vindicated and that justice was served because there was no performance enhancement, and I competed fairly against my teammates." "All I want to do is focus on sliding, winning more medals for Canada, and focus on achieving my Olympic dream." To ensure no slider has a technological advantage, all skeleton sliders must race on the same steel runners, purchased from the international governing body, the FIBT (Federation Internationale de Bobsleigh et de Tobogganing). Wilson said the one juror who stayed after the race in Whistler found that the lasered-on FIBT markings on the runner had been altered, in contravention of FIBT rules. The rules say that any alteration is deemed to be for competitive advantage, resulting in disqualification. The Oct. 20 disqualification dropped Kelly down in the rankings for the second set of qualifying races, held a week later in Calgary, and she failed to make the World Cup team or the Intercontinental Cup development squad. That effectively ended her Olympic dream, given that the 2010 squad will be selected based on World Cup points and points on the Intercontinental Cup circuit, where points have less value. But that changed earlier this week when a three-member appeal panel of Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton determined that two of the three judges - one of whom was American, the other two Canadian - were not present for the inspection, nullifying the case. At least three had to present for the allegation to move forward. Wilson said he doesnt know what orders, if any, were given to the inspectors about leaving early that day, adding there will be no action taken against them. "I would not take any punitive or remedial action against a volunteer." The reversal left the skeleton team scrambling this week on the eve of the World Cup season in an Olympic year. Kelly was flown in immediately to replace Sarah Reid, who had a blow dealt to her Olympic hopes, as Kellys arrival forced her down to the Intercontinental Cup. Kelly will race with teammates Amy Gough and Mellisa Hollingsworth, the bronze-medal winner at Turin in 2006. Thaddeus Young Jersey . The Jays filed a claim for $470,854 after the high-level, high-security meetings forced the team to shift a series of games to Philadelphia, records obtained by The Canadian Press show. The move spoiled the keenly anticipated appearance of ace Philadelphia pitcher Roy Halladay, whom the Jays traded to the Phillies during the off-season. Tim Duncan Jersey . -- Overshadowed at times on a team stocked with scorers, Jose Barea is rarely the offensive focus late in the game for the Dallas Mavericks. Reggie Miller Jersey . Jordon Crawford scored 10 points for the Falcons (12-12, 7-3 MAC) who have won six of their last eight starts. Scott Thomas dealt out six assists to go along with his nine points. Jarrod Jones had a big night for the Cardinals (14-9, 6-4) with 15 points and 14 rebounds, but Ball State still lost for the fifth time in its last six starts. Mario Chalmers Jersey . The Maple Leafs will not have James Reimer back in the crease tonight. The second-year backstop has been out since sustaining head and neck injuries on Oct. 22, but he has returned to practice. Drew Brees Jersey . Wolf battled through seven tough innings after Rickie Weeks and Corey Hart homered on consecutive pitches in the first inning, leading the Milwaukee Brewers to a 4-2 win over the streaking Boston Red Sox on Saturday night.Guelph Storm defenceman Matt Finn continued his surge by joining the Top 10 in Craig Buttons monthly TSN.ca NHL Entry Draft Ranking, while the highly-touted Quebec Remparts forward Mikhail Grigorenko dropped a spot to No. 7 in the first list released since the end of the World Junior Hockey Championship. Finn - who was ranked 41st in November and 11th in December - cracked the Top 10 this month, landing in the eighth-overall spot. In 35 games this season, Finn has recorded six goals and 23 assists. Grigorenko, who last week was rated the No. 2 North American skater by NHL Central Scouting, was passed on Buttons list by Edmonton Oil Kings defenceman Griffin Reinhart. Grigorenko had two goals and five points in six games at the World Junior tournament. Sarnia Sting forward Nail Yakupov, who is out for about a month with a knee injury, maintains the top spot in the ranking and hasnt lost the spot since the first ranking was released September. Yakupov finished tied for seventh in scorring at the World Juniors with nine points. Kevin Durant Jersey. Also, Red Deer Rebels defenceman Matt Dumba took over the second spot from Leksand winger Filip Forsberg. Morgan Reilly and Alex Galchenyuk, who are both out with injuries, are still locked in a No.s 4 and 5 respectivley. Centre Tomas Hertl, who made a big splash at the World Juniors with three goals and five points in six games for the Czech Republic, debuts in this months ranking at No. 25. Click here at (http://www.tsn.ca/craigslist) for the full Top 60 prospect list. TSN Scout Craig Button is part of TSN and TSN.cas expanded DraftCentre coverage. Craig started in the NHL as a scout with the Minnesota North Stars and stayed with the organization through the move to Dallas. He later became Director of Player Personnel, helping lead the Stars to a Stanley Cup in 1999. From 2000 to 2003, Craig served as Vice President and General Manager of the Calgary Flames and later joined the Toronto Maple Leafs as a scout. Kobe Bryant Jersey. The Tennessean reported Saturday that the Titans have signed their first-round pick to a five-year $12 million deal, worth $7 million guaranteed. ´ ´ ´

The Norwegian tested her all the way on the gruelling

VAL DI FIEMME, Italy -- Canadian Devon Kershaw narrowly missed the podium in cross-country skiings Tour de Ski. Miles Austin Jersey . The 29-year-old from Sudbury, Ont., finished fourth in the overall standings, won by Dario Cologna. The 25-year-old Swiss star completed the nine-race circuit in a total time of four hours 33 minutes 17.2 seconds to cement his third Tour de Ski title. Swedens Marcus Hellner was second overall, while Norways Petter Northug was third. Kershaw entered Sundays race sitting fourth overall. "I dont have many thoughts -- Im exhausted," Kershaw said. "Today was a little bit disappointing. "Fourth place is not something to be super disappointed about but, Im not going to lie I really wanted the podium. Its hard because ive been fourth and fifth at the Olympics and Im now fourth here at the Tour de Ski. Im better this year but I do believe I can be on the podium here and win this thing one day if everything comes together." Alexander Legkov of Russia won Sundays finale, the nine-kilometre free final climb pursuit, in 30:38.2. Maurice Manificat of France was second in 30:38.3, followed by Marcus Hellner of Sweden in 30:39.9. In the womens event, Justyna Kowalczyk of Poland finished second to successfully defend her overall championship. Therese Johaug of Norway won the stage in 34:17.7. Kowalczyk started the race just 11.5 seconds ahead of main rival Marit Bjoergen. The Norwegian tested her all the way on the gruelling climb up Mount Cermis. Kowalczyk finally shook Bjoergen on the steepest part of the course and crossed the line 16.7 seconds ahead to capture her third Tour de Ski crown in 2:52:45, 28.2 seconds ahead of Bjoergen. --- With files from The Associated Press. DeMarcus Ware Jersey . Louis, MO (Sports Network) - Brad Penny tossed seven solid innings and St. LeBron James Jersey .ca! Hi Kerry, I was watching the Canadiens-Flyers game and in the first period, a Montreal goal was disallowed while the Canadiens were on a 5-on-3 advantage because Erik Cole was in the crease. Marshawn Lynch Jersey . And while some vets might jump at the chance to move from the struggling team to a playoff contender, 12-year veteran defenceman Chris Phillips isnt one of them; he wants to stick around for the rebuild. There is little doubt that Ottawa will be a much younger - and much greener - team next year, but Phillips said the team will still need some veterans to lead the way for the young players, a role he would like to take on. Thaddeus Young Jersey . Ferrer was ousted by gritty Russian Mikhail Youzhny, 7-6 (7-3), 6-2, while the former world No. 1 Hewitt succumbed to big-serving, oft-injured Swedish wild card Joachim Johansson, 7-6 (9-7), 6-3, on the indoor surface at Putra Stadium. Mario Chalmers jersey . The 29-year-old Floridian, who said his mother was raised in Hamilton, finished a lap in one minute 2.1433 seconds. He finished ahead of Justin Wilson (1:02.1839) and Helio Castroneves (1:02.2550). "It was definitely a physical, hot one out there today," Hunter-Reay said. Clearwater, FL (Sports Network) - Juan Rivera belted a two-run homer and Edwin Encarnacion slugged a solo shot, as Toronto top Philadelphia, 7-6, in spring training. Rivera finished 3-for-4 with three RBI for the Blue Jays, who got three hits and an RBI from Adam Lind. Jo-Jo Reyes went five innings in the winn, yielding five hits and three runs. Kevin Durant Jersey. Shane Victorino and Freddy Galvis each hit two-run homers for the Phillies, who got solo blasts from Michael Martinez and Erik Kratz. Cliff Lee was tagged with the loss, surrendering seven hits and five runs -- three earned -- in four innings of work. Kobe Bryant Jersey. -- There was something about playing Orlando last season that brought out the best in the Atlanta Hawks. ´ ´ ´

Now that theres a handshake deal on

NEW YORK -- Now that theres a handshake deal on a new labour agreement, NBA commissioner David Stern and union executives must persuade owners and players to approve it, guaranteeing a Christmas Day triple-header. Andre Iguodala Jersey . After a 149-day lockout, owners and players reached the tentative deal early Saturday. It comes at a loss of hundreds of millions of dollars for both sides, on top of the fans and jobs that were lost during the stalemate. And it leaves the NBA with its second shortened season, with the hope of getting in 66 games instead of a full 82-game schedule. The lockout isnt quite over, but it appears the NBAs nuclear winter will be avoided. After a marathon 15-hour negotiating session Friday into Saturday, Stern accepted some congratulations, headed for another short night of sleep, then planned to brief his owners on a deal that could change the way they do business. Players, looking beat and beaten, face a tougher healing process in approving an agreement that significantly limits their earnings. First, players must drop a lawsuit against the league, reform their disbanded union and approve the handshake deal that was reached shortly after 3 a.m. Saturday. Players association executives Derek Fisher and Maurice Evans hardly looked enthused about the agreement as they sat next to executive director Billy Hunter on the same side of a conference table as Stern, deputy commissioner Adam Silver and Spurs owner Peter Holt, the chairman of the leagues labour relations committee. But at least they werent sitting in a courtroom, where they appeared headed less than two weeks earlier. Just 12 days after talks broke down and Stern declared the NBA could be headed to a "nuclear winter," he sat next to Hunter to announce the 10-year deal, with either side able to opt out after the sixth year. Owners relented slightly on their previous insistence that players receive no more than 50 per cent of basketball-related income after they were guaranteed 57 per cent in the old collective bargaining agreement. The target is still a 50-50 split, but with a band from 49 per cent to 51 per cent that gives the players a better chance of reaching the highest limit than previously proposed. Owners were warned on a conference call Friday night that a deal did not seem imminent, a person briefed on the details told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the information. Then, shortly past 3 a.m., many league officials received an email from Silver saying they had a deal -- news that apparently caught many off guard. Silvers e-mail, the person said, did not contain any specifics about the terms of the tentative agreement. Those details were expected to be provided on a late-afternoon conference call of the labour relations committee Saturday. The agenda was expected to include when franchises may begin contacting their players again and when team facilities could re-open in advance of training camps. Stern said he expects the labour committee to endorse the deal and recommend it to the full board. The players side has revealed little of its feelings about the deal, noting the pending antitrust litigation in its desire for keeping details quiet. But players always preferred to be on the court, rather than in it, and now they finally have the chance. "I think it was the ability of the parties to decide it was necessary to compromise and to kind of put this thing back together in some kind of way, to put an end to the litigation and everything that that entails," Hunter said. Players filed an amended antitrust lawsuit in Minnesota on Monday that could have earned the players billions but surely would have come at the cost of at least the entire 2011-12 season. Both sides said all along the only way to a deal was through negotiating. They got back together Tuesday, setting the way for the pivotal meeting that began Friday. "I think we saw a willingness of both sides to compromise yet a little more and to reach this agreement," Silver said. "We look forward to opening on Christmas Day and we are excited to bring NBA basketball back and thats most important." Both sides are expected to OK the pact, which would pave the way for training camps and free agency to open simultaneously Dec. 9. U.S. President Barack Obama gave a thumbs-up when told about the tentative settlement after he finished playing basketball at Fort McNair in Washington on Saturday morning. Because the union disbanded, a new collective bargaining agreement can only be completed once the union has reformed. Drug testing and other issues still must be negotiated between the players and the league, which also must dismiss its lawsuit regarding the legality of the lockout. "Were very pleased weve come this far," Stern said. "Theres still a lot of work to be done." When the NBA returns, owners hope to find the type of parity that exists in the NFL, where the small-market Green Bay Packers are the current champions. The NBA has been dominated in recent years by the biggest spenders, with Boston, Los Angeles and Dallas winning the last four titles. "I think it will largely prevent the high-spending teams from competing in the free-agent market the way theyve been able to in the past. Its not the system we sought out to get in terms of a harder cap, but the luxury tax is harsher than it was. We hope its effective," Silver said. "We feel ultimately it will give fans in every community hope that their team can compete for championships." Owners locked out the players July 1, and the sides spent most of the summer and fall battling over the division of revenues and other changes owners wanted in a new collective bargaining agreement. They said they lost hundreds of millions of dollars in each year of the former deal, ratified in 2005, and they wanted a system where the big-market teams wouldnt have the ability to outspend their smaller counterparts. Players fought against those changes, not wanting to see any teams taken out of the market when they became free agents. "This was not an easy agreement for anyone. The owners came in having suffered substantial losses and feeling the system wasnt working fairly across all teams," Silver said. "I certainly know the players had strong views about expectations in terms of what they should be getting from the system. It required a lot of compromise from both parties part." Stern denied the antitrust litigation was a factor in accelerating a deal, but things happened relatively quickly after the players filed. "For us the litigation is something that just has to be dealt with," Stern said. "It was not the reason for the settlement. The reason for the settlement was weve got fans, weve got players who would like to play and weve got others who are dependent on us. And its always been our goal to reach a deal that was fair to both sides and get us playing as soon as possible, but that took a little time." Patrick Willis Jersey . Valtteri Filppula and Danny Cleary also tallied for Detroit, which has won seven of its last nine games. Jimmy Howard made 27 saves to register his 13th win of the season. Derick Brassard and R.J. Umberger lit the lamp for the Blue Jackets, who had a five-game winning streak halted by the Red Wings on Friday in Columbus. Tim Duncan Jersey . A day after clinching her fifth consecutive World Cup downhill title, the American sealed her third straight super-combined trophy Sunday after the final race in the discipline this season was cancelled due to heavy snowfall on the Sochi 2014 Olympics course. Paul Pierce Jersey . President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev. The first president of independent Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, has clearly stated the main diplomatic strategy of his country - creating and maintaining favorable conditions for the nations steady development through political and economic reforms. 2012 Atlanta Falcons Nike Jersey . Hideki Matsui drove in a run and recorded his 1,000th career hit for the Angels, who are 9-4 since a 2-6 start to the season. Juan Rivera also knocked in a run for the victors. DeMarco Murray Jersey . Le 20e but de la saison de Spezza est survenu en supériorité numérique à 8:02 en troisième et donnait les devants 4-2 aux Sénateurs. Ces derniers ont inscrit trois buts avec lavantage dun homme. Denver, CO (Sports Network) - Carlos Gonzalez and Melvin Mora belted home runs in support of Jason Hammels 6 1/3 sturdy innings in Colorados 4-2 win over San Diego in the middle test of a three-game series. Brad Eldred added a homer and Ryan Spilborghs chipped in with two hits and a run scored for the red-hot Rockies, who have won six straight and 10 of their last 12. It feels great to be up here and contribute, said Eldred. To see how hard these guys work and be in a pennant chase really means a lot to me and hopefully I can continue to be a part of it. Hammel (7-3) earned his career-best sixth straight winning decision by limiting the Padres to two runs on five hits and a pair of walks while fanning four for Colorado, which is 14-3 at home since June 11. Huston Street retired the side in order in the ninth to earn his fifth save of the season. Wade LeBlanc (4-7) absorbed the loss after permitting four runs on nine hits over 5 2/3 innings, while walking two and fanning five for the struggling Padres, who have lost four out of five. We still have a long way to go here, said LeBlanc. Were not even at the All-Star break, we have three months to go here and well get back on track. Mora smacked a leadoff home run, his first of the year and first with the Rockies, in the second to get the scoring started. Gonzalez continued his torrid pace with a solo clout the opposite way to left field with two outs in the third. He has hit a long ball in seven of his last 12 games, and in four out of five against San Diego since June 28. Eldred continued the long ball trend with a two-out, two-run homer the other way to right-center in the sixth to make it 4-0. Josh Freeman Jersey. Hammel and Barmes followed with singles to right field to chase LeBlanc from the game. Edward Mujica took over and got Dexter Fowler to ground out to end the frame. The Padres finally got on the board in the seventh when Yorvit Torrealba led off with a single and scored when Aaron Cunningham doubled just out of the reach of Gonzalez in left-center. Everth Cabrera delivered a one-out base hit past a diving Eldred at first to plate Cunningham to slice the lead in half and end Hammels outing. Matt Belisle came on and induced pinch-hitter Tony Gwynn into an inning-ending double play. The right-hander recorded the first out in the eighth and gave way to southpaw Joe Biemel. Chase Headley flied out for the second out of the frame before Adrian Gonzalez was robbed of a home run on a leaping catch in front of and over the left field wall by Carlos Gonzalez. GAME NOTES:Hammels last lost came on May 21 to Kansas City...He is 6-0 with three no- decisions since then with two wins over the Friars...Eldreds homer was his first in the big leagues since April 25, 2007 off Houstons Matt Albers as a member of the Pirates...Carlos Gonzalez extended his hitting streak to seven games during which he has 15 hits...The Rockies produced a dozen hits marking the ninth straight game they have collected at least 11 hits to match a franchise record established between April 6-14, 1998...Cunningham extended his hitting streak to a career-best nine games. Kobe Bryant Jersey. Kei Nishikori defeated Ivan Dodig 7-5, 7-6 (4), 6-3 in Sundays first reverse singles to pull the host nation level but Soeda was overpowered by the big-serving Karlovic who had 17 aces. ´ ´ ´

Mainland reports trade volume hike with Taiwan

Indian Wells, CA (Sports Network) - Serbian star Jelena Jankovic brushed off gusty winds to rout Ai Sugiyama of Japan in third round action at the $2. Tony Parker Jersey .1 million Pacific Life Open on Monday. Jankovics performance was overshadowed by the play of top seed Ana Ivanovic, who blew past No. 31 Tathiana Garbin 6-3, 6-0 in the nightcap at Indian Wells Tennis Garden. The third-seeded Jankovic needed just 58 minutes to dispose of No. 27 Sugiyama in straight sets, 6-1, 6-1, and advance on Day 6 of this 12-day event. American Lindsay Davenport struggled with her game, but dug deep and slipped past Yung-Jan Chan 6-4, 5-7, 6-2. The tours former top player and two-time Indian Wells champion needed just over two hours to fight off Chan. Davenports next opponent will be Frenchwoman Marion Bartoli. The sixth-seeded Bartoli downed Angelique Kerber 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) in a match that almost slipped away after a 5-1 lead in the second set. In other action Monday, Australias Casey Dellacqua advanced after Austrian Tamira Paszek retired with an illness. Dellacqua was dominating things, 6-1, 4-0, when Paszek called it quits. Meanwhile, 13th-seeded Francesca Schiavone of Italy downed fellow Italian Flavia Pennetta, 6-3, 6-4 and 12th-seeded Russian Vera Zvonareva ousted countrywoman Galina Voskoboeva, 6-0, 6-3. Anabel Medina Garrigues downed Evgeniya Rodina 6-3, 7-5 in other action at picturesque Indian Wells. The 2008 Indian Wells titlist will collect $332,000. 2012 Dallas Cowboys Nike Jersey . As long as it is good for economic development of both sides of the Strait, were willing to give more benefits to the island, Jiang Zengwei, honorary president of the association said Friday during a visit to the island. Related readings: Mainland reports trade volume hike with Taiwan, HK Mainland our focus of expansion Mainland to donate $17. Elton Brand Jersey . The stutter step was much more costly for Calgary. With time running out on their regular season, the Flames hope to avoid a fifth loss in six games while dealing Los Angeles its first three-game skid in two months tonight at the Staples Center. Michael Vick Jersey . Consequently, up to 17 cities have promulgated restriction orders for homebuyers. The most stringent requirements are that of the Beijing municipal government. People who do not have local hukou, or household registration, have to furnish evidence of paying taxes to the city tax department for the last five years to qualify as homebuyers. Jason Witten Jersey . Kevin Durant scored 33 points, Russell Westbrook added 19 and the Thunder beat the Lakers 100-85 Thursday night to head into the All-Star break tied for the leagues best record. Kevin Love Jersey . The working group dispatched by the State Council was quoted as saying that anyone involved in the tainted pork will face severe penalties. A ranking official of the Ministry of Agriculture said last week that the random testing of around 2 percent of 600 million pigs a year will certainly have loopholes, which seems to shift the responsibility from the food safety watchdogs to the system and pig raisers. OTTAWA - Cest maintenant officiel: Chris Phillips demeure avec les Sénateurs dOttawa. Le vétéran défenseur, qui a disputé ses 925 matchs en carrière avec les Sénateurs, a accepté un nouveau contrat de trois ans dune valeur de 9,25 millions $ US. Des spéculations laissaient entendre que les Sénateurs pourraient être tentés déchanger Phillips avant lheure limite des transferts dans la LNH. Mais léquipe et le joueur ont plut?t opté pour une prolongation de contrat. ?Il y a plusieurs facteurs justifiant mon désir de rester, autant sur la patinoire quà lextérieur, a précisé Philllips au réseau TSN. Chris Paul Jersey. En ce qui concerne léquipe, cest vrai que nous sommes en reconstruction mais je ne crois pas quil faudra attendre longtemps avant de renouer avec le succès. Nous avons obtenu plusieurs jeunes joueurs qui ont montré beaucoup de potentiel et qui vont être excitants à suivre au cours des prochaines saisons. Et je suis encore jeune. Je ne considère pas que cest mon dernier contrat.? Le joueur de 32 ans, originaire de Calgary, avait été le premier choix au repêchage en 1996. Il totalise 60 buts en carrière et 173 passes. Il touche 3,5 millions $ US cette saison. Kobe Bryant Jersey. The decision came two days after Tiger Woods won the Buick Open in Grand Blanc, Mich. Woods acknowledged the end of the tournament, which he won for the third time, by heaving his golf ball toward a massive gallery after his final putt. ´ ´ ´