Sunday, October 31, 2010

Latest Sports Buzz

Latest Sports Buzz

Report: With Ankle Healing, Favre Will Start Sunday For Vikes

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter

Minneapolis, MN, United States (AHN) – Brett Favre, who suffered two fractures in his foot last Sunday, will start Week 8 vs. the Pats despite wearing a walking boot as late as mid-week.

Favre has endured a rough season for the 2-4 Vikes, but told ESPN he will make his 292nd straight start.

“My expectations are to play and play well enough for us to have a chance to win this game,” Favre told Ed Werderby phone as his team’s plane prepared to take off to New England.

Favre briefly took the walking boot off and walked around the locker room Thursday, though he acknowledges he may still wear it.

Despite two broken bones in his foot, which do not require surgery, the iron horse of quarterbacks believes he can still guide the Vikes to big wins.

“I wouldn’t put anything past me to be honest with you,” Favre told USA Today earlier in the week.

Favre is not performing as well as he did last season (33 TD-7 INT), already throwing 10 interceptions to just seven touchdowns in six games.

The Vikings (2-4) face a tough challenge heading to Foxborough to face the Patriots Sunday.

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Virginia Takes Advantage Of Hobbled Miami In Skid-Stopping Upset

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

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Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter

Charlottesville, VA, United States (AHN) – The Virginia Cavaliers knocked star Miami quarterback Jacory Harris out of the game in the first quarter and went on to pick off Hurricanes backups four times in a 24-19 upset Saturday.

The win halted a lengthy nine-game conference losing streak for Virginia.

John-Kevin Dolce laid out Harris as he released what would be a Chase Minnifield interception

The QB hit the ground hard and laid on the turf for several minutes before being helped off the field.

The Cavaliers went on to build a 24-0 lead before Miami pulled within five late in the fourth quarter.

Keith Payne ran for 81 yards and two scores, and Marc Verica went 19-for-27 for 176 yards and a touchdown pass for Virginia.

Minnifeld and Corey Mosley had two interceptions each and Rodney McLeod added a pick for the Cavs, who tied a school record for interceptions in a game.

Stephen Morris went 9-for-22 for 162 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions in place of Harris. Leonard Hankerson and Travis Benjamin caught touchdown passes.

The loss surely knocks No. 22 Miami (5-3, 3-2 ACC) out of the BCS top 25. The Canes host the Maryland Terrapins Saturday. Virginia (4-4, 1-3 ACC) heads to Duke to face the Blue Devils.

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Injuries Leave Saints Minus Backs Reggie Bush, Pierre Thomas

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter

New Orleans, LA, United States (AHN) – Despite hoping for either player to return to bolster its rushing attack, New Orleans will be without running backs Reggie Bush (leg) and Pierre Thomas (ankle) for Sunday night’s showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Bush has been out since hurting his hamstring during a punt return in a Week 2 win over the San Francisco 49ers. The versatile back was targeting a return earlier this week, but still felt pain testing the leg out on hard surfaces.

“It’s just kinda something we all decided and just felt like I wasn’t 100 percent ready to get on the field,” Bush told nola.com. “And, you know, it’s tough, because this is such an important game for us and it’s a big game for us. And it’s tough being on the sidelined, knowing you can help your team contribute in situations. But as of right now I’ve got to do my best to help the guys that are in there the best I can.”

Thomas has been sidelined since Week 3, an unusually extended time for a sprained ankle, and is still wearing a walking boot. The Saints leading rusher in 2009, Thomas managed 46 carries for 147 yards and a touchdown before the injury.

“I don’t know how far along I am,” Thomas told Yahoo.com. “I don’t know what’s going to happen. All I’m hoping and praying for is my ankle to get a lot better.”

Rookie Christopher Ivory has been shouldering the majority of the load in the backfield, with 59 rushes in five games for 325 yards. Ladell Betts has 29 carries for 111 yards behind Ivory.

New Orleans (4-3) looks to bounce back from a loss at home vs. the lowly Browns (2-5).

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Larry Nelson Takes One Shot Lead At AT&T

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

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Tom Edrington – AHN Sports Reporter

San Antonio, TX, United States (AHN) – The birdie deluge dried up Saturday at Oak Hills but Larry Nelson found enough to shoot a four-under par 67 and holds a one-shot lead going into Sunday’s final round of the AT&T Championship.

Nelson’s 36-hole total of 132, 10-under par, gave him a one stroke advantage over Jay Don Blake, Steve Lowery and Chien Soon Lu.

First round co-leader John Cook managed a 69 and was one of four players who were two shots back at 134, eight-under.

Nelson, who has won 19 times on the Champions Tour, broke out of a tie at nine-under when he reached the 527-yard par five 15th in two and two-putted from 60 feet to get to 10-under.

“I hit the ball very well today, very consistent,” said the 63-year old Nelson, a Hall of Fame member. “You have to keep the ball in play and for the first time this year — I am.”

Nelson’s performance this season has been hampered by putting woes but a new putter appeared to have him back on track.

Blake had the day’s best round, a seven under par 64. Lowery, who recently turned 50, is making just his second start on the Champions Tour.

Mark Wiebe, who is 30th on the money list needs a good round Sunday to guarantee a spot in next week’s Charles Schwab Cup Championship.

He shot 69 and joined Cook at eight-under along with Jeff Sluman and Rod Spittle.

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Warriors Guard Curry Tweaks Ankle; Out Sunday Vs. Lakers

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter

Oakland, CA, United States (AHN) – Golden State Warriors sharp-shooter Stephen Curry, who sprained his right ankle in the preseason, re-injured the same ankle Friday against the Clippers.

Working to get around a pick set by Blake Griffin in the third quarter, Curry’s ankle rolled nearly perpendicular to the floor before he collapsed in pain.

Curry also aggravated the injury in the Warriors opening night win over Houston.

He was ruled out of the Warriors game Sunday against the defending NBA champion Lakers and will not make the trip to Los Angeles.

The second-year standout is averaging 20.5 points and 8.5 assists in two games this season, shooting an impressive 64 percent from the field and 44 from three.

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Kyle Busch Edges Almirola For Talladega Truck Win

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

Edward Lewis – AHN Sports Reporter

Talladega, AL, United States (AHN) – Last year when they were teammates at Billy Ballew Motorsports, Aric Almirola was the consumate teammate and pushed Kyle Busch to the win here.

A year later, with Busch wheeling his own equipment, Almirola’s old teammate wasn’t about to return the favor, pulling out and diving under Almirola in the closest finish in NASCAR Camping World Truck Series history.

Busch looked like he would push Almirola to victory, but instead he edged Almirola by .002 seconds to win the Mountain Dew 250 at Talladega Superspeeday.

With the race seeing a green-white-checkered restart due to a horrific crash on Lap 91, Almirola was out front and Busch dropped behind the No. 51. The two stayed together until the final hundred feet of the race.

Johnny Sauter finished third, just .021 seconds behind the winner and the front three were followed by Matt Crafton and Ricky Carmichael.

Almirola took the lead on Lap 89 when Sauter gave him a push on the outside and the two bumped Busch to third.

It was a bittersweet day for Almirola, who settled for runner-up honors but gained major ground in the points race on point leader Todd Bodine, who finished 18th.

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Red Wings Enjoy 2-1 Second Period Lead Over Predators

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

John Raffel – AHN Sports Correspondent

Detroit, MI, United States (AHN) – First-period goals by Pavel Datsyuk and Brad Stuart have given the Detroit Red Wings a 2-1 lead over the Nashville Predators halfway through the second period Saturday night at Joe Louis Arena.

Datsyuk netted his fifth goal of the season, assisted by Henrik Zetterberg and Rusian Salei. Stuart notched his first goal of the year, assisted by Johan Franzen and Nicklas Lidstrom.

Datsyuk scored on a rebound while Stuart poked a loose puck into the net.

Nashville got on the board at 7:49 into the second period when Joel Ward fired a shot down the slot for his second goal of the season, assisted by Cody Franson and Cal O’Reilly.

Detroit has a 15-12 shots advantage after the first 30 minutes.

Chris Osgood has 11 saves for Detroit while Joey MacDonald has 13 saves for the Predators.

Nashville entered the game at 5-1-3 with 13 points while the Wings were at 5-2-1 for 11 points in a battle of Central Division rivals in the NHL’s Western Conference.

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Helu Rushes For School-Record 307 Yards, Lifts Nebraska Over Mizzou

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter

Lincoln, NE, United States (AHN) – Roy Helu Jr. rushed for a school-record 307 yards as the BCS ranked No. 16 Nebraska Cornhuskers knocked No. 6 Missouri from the ranks of the unbeaten with a 31-17 thrashing of the Tigers Saturday afternoon.

Heisman candidate Taylor Martinez was forced to leave the game in the second quarter with an injury after going 6-for-9 for 115 yards and a touchdown.

Zac Lee took over to start the third quarter, but only attempted three passes with Helu putting on a clinic in the backfield and the win all but sealed.

Helu ran for touchdowns of 66, 73 and 53 yards, two of which came during a 24-point first quarter that blew the game open early.

The Cornhuskers defense helped preserve the lead, allowing a total of just 199 passing yards and 142 on the ground to the dangerous Mizzou offense.

Blaine Gabbert went 18-for-42 for 199 yards, a touchdown and an interception for Missouri. Gabbert added 22 carries for 74 yards, accounting for 80 percent of the Tigers offense.

Missouri (7-1, 3-1 Big 12) has not won a road game against a top 25 opponent since 1997, a span of 17 games. The Tigers look to bounce back at Texas Tech Saturday.

Nebraska (7-1, 3-1 Big 12) moved into a first-place tie in the Big 12 with the win. The Huskers head to Iowa State for Week 9.

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Datsyuk`s Two Goals Help Red Wings Overpower Predators

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

John Raffel – AHN Sports Correspondent

Detroit, MI, United States (AHN) – Pavel Datsyuk tallied two goals and an assist to lead the Detroit Red Wings to a 5-2 victory over the Nashville Predators Saturday night at Joe Louis Arena.

Datsyuk’s second goal late in the second period gave the Wings a 3-1 lead. He fought off Predator defenseman Nick Spaling for the puck off the boards then skated at the net and squeezed the puck past Nashville goalie Pekka Rinne.

It was Datsyuk’s sixth goal of the season and he used assists from Danny Cleary and Ruslan Salei.

In the third period, the Wings went up 5-1 on goals by Tomas Holmstrom on the power play for his third of the season and by Patrick Eaves for his second.

Kevin Klein scored midway in the final period for Nashville for his first tally of the season.

First-period goals by Datsyuk and Brad Stuart gave the Red Wings a 2-0 lead after the first 20 minutes.

Datsyuk netted his fifth goal of the season while Stuart notched his first goal of the year.

Datsyuk scored on a rebound while Stuart poked a loose puck into the net.

Nashville got on the boards at 7:49 into the second period when Joel Ward fired a shot down the slot for his second goal of the season.

Detroit enjoyed a 28-25 shots advantage after the first 30 minutes.

Chris Osgood had 23 saves for Detroit while Rinne had 23 saves for the Predators.

Nashville falls to 5-2-3 with 13 points while the Wings are at 6-2-1 for 13 points following the battle of Central Division rivals in the NHL’s Western Conference.

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Moreland Blasts Rangers To Win Over Giants In World Series Game 3

Posted: 31 Oct 2010 03:33 PM PDT

AHN Sports Staff

Arlington, TX, United States (AHN) – Mitch Moreland belted a three-run homer in the second inning, powering the Texas Rangers to a 4-2 win over the San Francisco Giants in Saturday’s game three of the World Series.

Colby Lewis tossed 7.2 innings of two run ball for the Rangers, while Jonathan Sanchez allowed Moreland’s shot and didn’t last the fifth frame.

Josh Hamilton and Cody Ross then exchanged solo homers for the Rangers and Giants, respectively.

It marked Ross’ fifth homer of the postseason and cut the Rangers lead to 4-1.

Andres Torres followed the next inning, the eighth, with a solo blast over the right field wall to make it 4-2.

The blast cost Lewis a chance at finishing up his masterpiece, as he was lifted.

Darren O’Day recorded the last out of the eighth, before Neftali Feliz fanned two of three Giants batters in a perfect ninth.

Michael Young and Elvis Andrus had two hits each for the Rangers, while Ross and Buster Posey got on base twice each for the Giants.

Pat Burrell could see some pine in game No. 4 after striking out in all four of his plate appearances for the Giants.

San Francisco, which managed just five hits, boasts a 2-1 series lead heading into game four.

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Saturday, October 30, 2010

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Vicky Hurst Tied For Lead At Hana Bank Championship

Posted: 30 Oct 2010 06:04 AM PDT

Tom Edrington – AHN Sports Reporter

Incheon, South Korea (AHN) – Don’t let her name fool you, Vicky Hurst is a popular player in South Korea and had a large following Friday when she shot a four-under par 68 to hold a share of the first round lead at the LPGA’s Hana Bank Championship.

Hurst whose mother is Korean though she was raised in the United States, performed well during her first round at the Sky 72 Golf Club’s Ocean Course. She had nines of 33-35 with just a single bogey and held a share of the lead with Song-Hee Kim.

Defending champion Na Yeon Choi and Amy Hung were a shot back with three-under par 69s.

Michelle Wie and Amanda Blumenhurst were among eight players at two-under par 70. The leaderboard was bunched up with 10 players at one-under 71, including Julie Inkster, Cristie Kerr and Brittany Lincicome.

Paul Creamer and Morgan Pressel were among a dozen players at even par 72.

Hurst was in the first group off and was greeted by chilly temperatures, with overnight lows near freezing. “It was really cold this morning,” said the second year player who is looking for her first win. “I just tried to hit fairways and greens, two putt and keep going and stay warm.”

She did better than that as she fashioned five birdies in her round and just a single bogey. “I played very consistently,” she said as she played in front of a large family contingent. “All my family is here, my grandparents, uncles and aunts.”

Wie played in the day’s most popular group as she was paired with the top two players in the world — Kerr and second-ranked Jiyai Shin. “There are a lot of people excited to see (Jiyai) Shin play and Kerr and hopefully me,” Wie said of the large gallery. “It was a lot of fun out there.”

Shin, one of the pre-tournament favorites, opened with a one-over par 73.

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Suns Go To Warrick In Dominating Jazz, Avoid 0-2 Start

Posted: 30 Oct 2010 06:04 AM PDT

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Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

Salt Lake City, UT, United States (AHN) – Reserve Hakim Warrick finished with a double-double with 18 points and 11 boards, as the Phoenix Suns used a balanced attack in defeating the Utah Jazz 110-94 Thursday night at EnergySolutions Arena.

Steve Nash also had 18 points and dished out six assists for the Suns, who had six players scoring in double digits and received a huge contribution from their reserves.

The Suns bench outscored Utah’s reserves, 50-16.

The run-and-gun Suns reappeared Thursday, racing to a 27-22 lead after the opening quarter.

The Suns were up 58-42 at the break.

Phoenix, vcoming off a loss at Portland Tuesday in its season opener, held on the rest of the game.

Jason Richardson donated 16 points, while Hedo Turkoglu had 13 for the victors.

The Jazz, playing in their home opener, were paced by Al Jefferson, who logged 20 points and nine boards.

Paul Millsap added 19 to go along with 13 boards in the loss.

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Ben Crane Cards Second Round 64, Shares Lead At CIMB Malaysia

Posted: 30 Oct 2010 06:04 AM PDT

Tom Edrington – AHN Sports Reporter

Selangor, Malaysia (AHN) – Ben Crane, a winner in Milwaukee earlier this season, shot a seven-under par 64 Friday and is tied for the lead at the CIMB Classic at 11-under par 131.

Crane is atop the leaderboard with Pariya Junhasavasdikul, a 26-year old graduate of Purdue University. Junhasavasdikul plays the Asian Tour and was the winner this season at the Taiwan Masters.

He put together a 65 to match Crane’s 131 total at the Jones Mines Resort.

First round leader Ricky Barnes is at shot back at 132 with fellow American Ryan Moore. Barnes came in with a 69 while Moore followed his opening 64 with a 68.

Carl Pettersson was alone at nine-under, 133 after a second round 68. Adam Scott and Luke Donald were next at 134.

Pre-tournament favorite Ernie Els shot 68 and was tied with Rickie Fowler at 135, seven-under. Fowler recorded a 67.

The players were greeted by early morning showers then temperatures that pushed into the 90s with plenty of humidity. Crane didn’t mind as he went bogey-free on his way to the day’s low round.

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Nebraska Lands Top Prep Running Back Aaron Green

Posted: 30 Oct 2010 06:04 AM PDT

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Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

Lincoln, NE, United States (AHN) – Nebraska got a boost in its offense after touted running back Aaron Green chose the Huskers over three other schools.

With the loss of primary kick/punt returner Niles Paul to graduation this year, Green is also expected to bolster the Huskers return game.

Green chose Nebraska over Texas, FSU and Cal.

This season, the star recruit from San Antonio (Texas) Madison High School has recorded 1,307 yards and 16 TD in eight contests.

Despite injuries during his junior year, Green still managed to rush for 1,133 yards and 11 TD.

In Nebraska, Green is expected to complement quarterback Taylor Martinez as he grows into his role with the Huskers.

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Report: Seau`s Girlfriend Alleges Former NFL Star Shoved Her Into Wall

Posted: 30 Oct 2010 06:04 AM PDT

AHN Sports Staff

San Diego, CA, United States (AHN) – Junior Seau’s girlfriend told cops the former NFL linebacker grabbed her by the arm and shoved her into a wall in a recent incident, according to the police report obtained by TMZ.

The girlfriend told police the force was so violent it caused her to knock over their fish bowl. The fish reportedly survived.

One of the cops said he saw a small red abrasion on her right forearm and felt a raised bump on the right side of her head.

She also complained of back pain. Cops say the front of her shirt was ripped open.

The woman rejected the cops’ offer to get her an emergency protective order.

Seau, a former San Diego Chargers star who also went on to play for the Patriots, left the scene but called the woman’s cell phone while cops were still at the home. Seau spoke with police and denied striking his girlfriend.

Seau returned to the house and was arrested. Cops say they smelled alcohol and his eyes were bloodshot.

Tune in to TMZ on TV weekdays Monday through Friday (check http://www.tmz.com/tmztv/ for syndicated/local listings)

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MMA Upset Of Year: Zoila Frausto Stuns Fujii To Win Bellator Crown

Posted: 30 Oct 2010 06:04 AM PDT

Shawn Krest – AHN Sports Correspondent

Hollywood, FL, United States (AHN) – Zoila Frausto sprang the MMA upset of the year with win over previously unbeaten Megumi Fujii to win the inaugural Bellator women’s title at Bellator 34, Thursday night in Hollywood, Florida.

Fujii appeared unstoppable in her march through the women’s 115 pound tournament, running her record to 22-0 with armbar submissions in her first two bouts, putting in a total of about 7 1-2 minutes of work to dispatch Carla Esparza and Lisa Ward.

Fujii had submissions in nine of her previous 10 bouts and 18 of 22 fights for her career.

Frausto was able to devise a game plan that choked off Fujii’s takedown and submission skills while allowing the underdog to take advantage of an edge in striking.

Frausto spent much of the early rounds crouching low and allowing Fujii to stalk her, looking for an opening to shoot. When Fujii closed in, Frausto landed solid kicks and punches to keep her at bay.

Fujii never even managed a takedown attempt until a minute and a half remained in the final round, and didn’t score a successful takedown until 30 seconds remained.

Frausto drew first blood late in the first round, landing a huge head kick that sent Fujii reeling backward. Frausto followed up with a right hand, then landed several solid shots on the cage.

After a cat -and-mouse second round, Frausto again hurt Fujii in the third with a right to the head two minutes in. Fujii began to show swelling around her left eye, and Frausto clinched the round with a big flurry of strikes in the final minute.

Fujii managed to tie Frausto up against the cage, but Frausto held her own against the judo expert and continued to land the harder punches. She sent Fujii backward with a one-two, followed by a low kick.

Frausto’s rights opened a cut over Fujii’s eye in the fifth round, as the heavily favored Fujii struggled to solve the puzzle Frausto presented.

Frausto earned a split decision, with scores of 49-46 and 48-47. Fujii got the nod on one card by a 48-47 score. AHN’s unofficial card had the bout in Frausto’s favor, 48-47.

Frausto moved to 10-1 with the win. She wasn’t even originally slated to appear in the Bellator tournament, but she earned a spot with a vicious knockout of Rosi Sexton.

The bout was supposed to be a pre-tournament showcase for Sexton, but the medical suspension resulting from the stoppage opened a spot for Frausto.

After a unanimous decision over Jessica Pene in the opening round of the tournament, she squeaked past Jessica Aguilar with a split decision in the semis.

“A lot of people said I couldn’t do it,” said Frausto. “I’ve been through so much. I deserve this spot. I worked so hard. “

In another championship bout, Bellator middleweight champion Hector Lombard earned a lopsided victory over season two tournament winner Alexander Shlemenko.

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HGH Probe Reportedly Includes Giants Outfielder Jose Guillen

Posted: 30 Oct 2010 06:04 AM PDT

Corine Gatti – AHN Sports Contributor

San Francisco, CA, United States (AHN) – San Francisco Giants outfielder Jose Guillen was scraped from the postseason roster after federal authorities informed MLB officials the player was involved in an investigation of performance-enhancing drug shipments, according to reports.

A New York Times report cited that several lawyers were briefed about the “matter” and spoke on the condition of anonymity Wednesday.

The report said Guillen was purposely left off the Giants roster in favor of Aaron Rowand after authorities told the league they were looking into HGH shipments shipped to the veteran’s wife in the Bay Area.

A San Francisco Chronicle report in 2007 tied Guillen to PED when it was alleged that he bought over $19,000 worth of HGH, along with other supplements in Florida from 2002-05.

MLB has not commented about the report in the Times or the matter of the investigation on Guillen.

Drug Enforcement and Administration agents are reportedly involved in the investigation.

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McDowell Rises, Kaymer Falls At Valderrama Masters

Posted: 30 Oct 2010 06:04 AM PDT

Tom Edrington – AHN Sports Reporter

Sotogrande, Spain (AHN) – Graeme McDowell fashioned a four-under par 67 Friday and leads at the halfway point of the Andalucia Valderrama Masters.

McDowell’s 135 total is seven-under par for two trips around the Club de Golf Valderrama. He holds a two-shot lead over Gareth Maybin who shot 68 and is in at 137.

Martin Kaymer’s bid to become the world’s top-ranked player took another hit Friday when he shot a three-over par 74 and is four-over for the tournament at 146.

He has to finish second or tied for second with no more than one other player to claim the No. 1 ranking on Sunday night.

If Kaymer doesn’t reach the runnerup spot, Lee Westwood will take over the top spot from Tiger Woods after this event.

Low round of the day went to Niclas Fasth of Sweden. He shot a six-under par 66 and was alone in third with a 139 total, three-under par.

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Bruins Netminder Tim Thomas Off To Perfect 5-0 Start

Posted: 30 Oct 2010 06:04 AM PDT

Corine Gatti – AHN Sports Contributor

Boston, MA, United States (AHN) – Boston Bruins goalie Tim Thomas is just perfect. Despite his team falling to sixth place in the Eastern Conference, the veteran is 5-0 and is fresh off his second shutout of the season after blanking the Maple Leafs Thursday.

He’s no stranger to shutouts and after he started a yoga-based physical regimen during the 2007 offseason-he’s been a staple in the cage for Boston.

Thomas was called back to NHL after a three-absence when playing for Jokerit (Finland) during the 2005-06 campaign. He had an NHL option written in his contract, and took over to become the Bruins starter.

He finished with 12-13-7 record, 2.77 GAA with a shutout, and was inked to a three-year extension.

During the 2008-09 season, he became the first Boston keeper to post two consecutive shutouts.

Thomas, also known as “The Tank,” is currently leading among goalies with a .981 save percentage, ahead of Pittsburgh’s Brent Johnson (.951.).

The 36-year-old boasts a 0.60 goals against average, and also was credited with an assist this season.

A winner of the 2009 Vezina Trophy, he’s already played 300 minutes and turned aside 153 of 156 shots for Boston this season.

With his statistics logged in the first month of the new season, now it’s up to the Boston offense to get going, while “The Tank” is full.

The Bruins (5-2-0) take on the Ottawa Senators (4-5-1) on the road Saturday. Boston is 3-0 on the road this season.

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Mastroeni Lifts Rapids Over Crew In MLS Playoffs Opener

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 10:32 PM PDT

Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

Commerce City, CO, United States (AHN) – Pablo Mastroeni scored the game’s only goal, as the Colorado Rapids topped the Columbus Crew 1-0 Thursday night in the 2010 Major League Soccer playoffs opener at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.

It was the first career playoff tally for Rapids captain Mastroeni, who slotted the ball in the 24th minute, scoring the eventual game-winner.

Mastroeni, the only remaining member from the Rapids team that last made the playoffs in 2006, was making a franchise-tying 16th playoff appearance.

With the win, the Rapids, who received the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference, take a one-goal advantage into the second and deciding leg at Crew Stadium on Nov. 6.

Columbus finished second in the East in the regular season.

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Friday, October 29, 2010

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Bonds Wants To Return As MLB Hitting Coach

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter

San Francisco, CA, United States (AHN) – Speaking to reporters prior to Game 1 of the World Series Wednesday, former San Francisco Giants slugger Barry Bonds expressed an interest to return to the majors as a hitting coach.

Bonds, whose MLB record 762 career homers were mired with allegations of steroid use, hasn’t played since 2007.

The controversial figure is facing federal perjury charges in relation to his denial of steroid use. Still, he feels he has a “gift” and wants to share it.

“Hopefully what I’m doing in private, personally with people, I can do full time here,” Bonds told MLB.com. “I just wish I was back in uniform. This is only half a uniform, so I guess that’s good enough.”

Bonds helped lead the Giants to the 2002 World Series, where they came up short against the Angels. He broke Mark McGwire’s single season home run record with 73 in 2001.

McGwire, who faced similar allegations through his career, admitted his use of steroids before taking over as hitting coach for the St. Louis Cardinals prior to this season.

Any admittance by Bonds would likely come after his trial in March on charges he lied to a federal grand jury about taking steroids in 2003.

San Fran won Game 1 to take a 1-0 lead on the Texas Rangers in their attempt to win a title for the first time since 1954.

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Blackhawks Winger Hossa Sidelined With Upper Body Injury

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

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Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

Chicago, IL, United States (AHN) – The Chicago Blackhawks star winger Marian Hossa will be sidelined for “a couple of weeks” with an upper body injury, according to coach Joel Quenneville Thursday.

The veteran winger, who was off to one of the best starts in the NHL this season, left the ice during the early stages of the second period in Wednesday’s 3-1 over the L.A. Kings and did not return.

Hossa is believed to have been hurt following a collision with Kings’ Jarrret Stoll.

“We found out a little bit more [and] it’s not of a serious nature,” Hawks coach Joel Quenneville said following Thursday’s practice as reported by the Chicago Tribune.

“Hopefully he can get on the ice soon and he can be back before we know it,” Quenneville added.

The injury will not require surgery.

The 31-year-old Hossa, who lifted his first Stanley Cup trophy in June with the Blackhawks, started the season healthy and has been playing well.

He has scored seven goals, trailing only Tampa Bay’s Steven Stamkos and teammate Patrick Sharp at the top of the league.

Hossa has compiled 11 points through 11 contests.Last season, Hossa was sidelined for the first 22 games following a shoulder surgery in July of 2009.

Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are looking at Rockford of the AHL for a number of options to replace Hossa on the roster.

The ‘Hawks could bring back Brandon Pirri, who has accounted himself well lately, or tab Evan Brophey.

Hossa’s absence could also pave the way for Kyle Beach to make his NHL debut.

Beach, who has showed some promise in training camp, has posted two goals, three assists and 17 penalty minutes in eight tilts to begin his AHL career.

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Mason Shootout Save Lifts Blue Jackets Over Oilers

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter

Columbus, OH, United States (AHN) – Steve Mason stopped Sam Gagner’s shootout attempt, while Rick Nash and Nikita Filatov beat Devan Dubnyk as the Columbus Blue Jackets grabbed a 2-1 win over the Edmonton Oilers Thursday night.

Samuel Pahlsson and Kyle Wilson scored in regulation for Columbus, which surrendered a 2-1 lead in the final period.

Shawn Horcoff scored and Taylor Hall forced overtime with a goal halfway through the third period.

Blue Jackets goalie Mason finished with 25 saves and Dubnyk stopped 39 shots for the Oilers.

Gilbert Brule missed his shootout attempt to seal the win for Columbus.

Columbus (6-3-0, 12 pts) heads to Colorado to take on the Avalanche Saturday.

Edmonton (2-4-2, 6 pts) continues its road trip at Chicago Friday.

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Trio On Top At Nationwide Tour Championship

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

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John Nestor – AHN Sports Correspondent

Charleston, SC, United States (AHN) – Joe Affrunti, James Hahn and Brendan Steele are tied for the lead after Thursday’s first round of the Nationwide Tour Championship.

Affrunti, Hahn and Steele shot 6-under-par 66 on Thursday at Daniel Island and share a one-stroke lead.

William McGirt and Hunter Haas are tied for fourth at 5-under 67. Colt Knost and Australian Scott Gardiner are tied for sixth place at 4-under 68.

A group of nine including the tour’s leading money winner Jamie Lovemark are at 3-under 69.

The Nationwide Tour Championship is the last chance for players to earn 2011 PGA Tour cards through the money list. The top 60 earners qualified for the season-ending tournament at Daniel Island and the top 25 after Sunday’s final round will earn spots on the PGA Tour.

The trio tied for the lead have some work to do this week to automatically earn their PGA Tour cards as Hahn is 29th on the money list, Steele is 30th, and Affrunti 34th.

“It’s important but there’s such a long way to go, especially without a cut,” Steele said. “Even if you don’t play well today it’s not a disaster. Guys that shoot even or a couple over, they can still win the golf tournament.”

Chris Kirk, No. 2 on the money list, withdrew prior to the start of the round with a broken bone at the base of his thumb.

Kirk injured his left thumb last week in Jacksonville and was forced to withdraw from the Jacksonville Open. He visited a doctor in Charleston on Wednesday and an MRI exam revealed the broken bone which will keep him out of action for several weeks.

“I was really looking forward to playing these last couple of tournaments being close to home and all,” said Kirk. “This week was kind of a victory lap week. I’ve had a great year and I’m trying to not to lose sight of that and be thankful I’m in the position I’m in. This week is important but in the grand scheme of things, I’ll be playing in the Sony Open in Hawaii, the first tournament of the year and most of the early events, so I’m in great shape regardless.”

Kirk was not replaced in the field as only the top-60 money-winners are eligible to play in this week’s event. Kirk will receive last-place money of $3,000 but it will not count towards his official earnings for this year.

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Michalek, Fisher, Alfredsson Lift Senators Over Panthers

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

Corine Gatti – AHN Sports Contributor

Ottawa, ON, Canada (AHN) – Milan Michalek, Mike Fisher and Daniel Alfredsson all scored, lifting the Ottawa Senators to a 5-3 victory over the Florida Panthers Thursday at Scotiabank Place.

Bryan McCabe scored early for the Panthers at 10:02 on the power play in the first period defeating Brian Elliott, who stopped 28 shots for Ottawa.

It hasn’t been exactly peachy for the Panthers, who dropped three of the last four and were coming off Tuesday’s loss to the Leafs.

On Thursday, the hand played out the same way with one more in the loss column.

Three consecutive goals followed in the second frame for the Senators, who improved to 4-5-1.

Alexei Kovalev and Alfredsson scored in the third making it 5-1 before goalie Tomas Vokoun (23 saves) could catch his breath in the cage.

Panthers’ Chris Higgins put the team back on the board 6:09 into the third with a second goal.

Mike Santorelli made it 5-3 with a blast with 56.2 seconds left in regulation.

Florida’s record fell to 3-5-0 into the young NHL season.

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Backstrom Turns Aside 21 Shots; Wild Defeat Caps

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

Corine Gatti – AHN Sports Contributor

St. Paul, MN, United States (AHN) – Chuck Kobasew and Mikko Koivu scored and Niklas Backstrom stopped 21 shots, as the Minnesota Wild defeated the Washington Capitals 2-1 Thursday.

Kobasew opened up the scoring for the Wild 7:48 into the game. Minnesota was quiet until the second, but that was all the offense it needed for the fourth win of the season.

Capitals’ Karl Alzner was called for hooking, setting up Koivu’s power-play goal in the second. It was his third of the season and a 2-0 advantage for the Wild.

Washington would not celebrate a goal of its own until late in the third period.

Mike Greene set Alex Ovechkin up, putting the Capitals on the board with 1:36 left in regulation. Ovechkin’s wrister was his fifth goal of the season.

Michal Neuvirth wasn’t tested often in stopping just 15 shots for the Capitals, who fell to 6-4-0.

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San Frantastic! Giants Roll Over Rangers For 2-0 World Series Lead

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

AHN Sports Staff

San Francisco, CA, United States (AHN) – Matt Cain twirled 7.2 innings of four-hit shutout ball and Edgar Renteria homered and drove in three runs, powering the San Francisco Giants to a dominating 9-0 win over the Texas Rangers for a 2-0 World Series lead Thursday.

The game was close until the eighth frame, when the Giants poured it on with seven runs to send the Rangers reeling back to Arlington for the middle part of the Classic.

The Rangers could use some home cooking after getting outscored 20-7 in the city by the bay.

The punchless Texas offense managed just four hits, including Ian Kinsler’s double.

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Giants` Cain Dominates Rangers In Game 2 Of Fall Classic

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

San Francisco, CA, United States (AHN) – Matt Cain, who has yet to allow an earned run this postseason, continued to baffle hitters by pitching shutout ball into the eighth inning, as the San Francisco Giants blasted the Texas Rangers 9-0 Thursday night at AT&T Park.

Cain (1-0), who did not allow an earned run over 13 2-3 innings in the NLDS and NLCS, scattered four hits and two walks over seven-plus innings, as the Giants take a 2-0 lead in the World Series.

Cain also struck out two and walked two in the victory.

Edgar Renteria smacked a go-ahead home run off C.J. Wilson in the fifth inning that drew first blood for the Giants, 1-0.

Renteria also added a two-run single in the eighth frame, where the Giants erupted for seven runs that sealed the win.

Wilson (0-1), who was making his first start against the Giants, was saddled with the loss despite a strong start. He yielded two runs on four hits over six innings.

The Giants will look to carry the momentum Saturday, when they visit Texas for Game 3 of the Fall Classic.

San Francisco is aiming to capture its first championship in 56 years.

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Theo Fleury`s Alleged Sex Abuser Back Behind Bars

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

Toronto, Canada (AHN) – Disgraced junior hockey coach Graham James, wanted on nine charges of sexual assault, including allegations he sexually assaulted former Calgary Flames captain Theoren Fleury, surrendered to police Wednesday at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport.

James, 58, who pleaded guilty in 1997 to sexual assault charges stemming from allegations brought forward by two of his former teenaged players, including former NHL player Sheldon Kennedy, was whisked to Winnipeg after surrendering early Wednesday to authorities by mutual agreement.

He remains in custody. James, who had been living in Guadalajara, Mexico, was arrested based on a Canada-wide warrant issued this month.

The warrant lists allegations from new complainants that date several years.

Among the complainants was Fleury, who in his published autobiography alleged that James started abusing him when was 14-years-old.

In 1997, James was convicted of sexually assaulting two teen players over ten years, including Kennedy, and was sentenced to 3 1-2 years in prison.

A pardon was issued by the Canadian National Parole Board in 2007 that sparked a public uproar.

That pardon given to the former high-profile major junior hockey coach only came to light after it was reported in the media recently.

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Quick, Kings Outlast Stars For Big Win

Posted: 29 Oct 2010 04:29 PM PDT

John Tranchina – AHN Sports Correspondent

Dallas, TX, United States (AHN) – Two goals within nine seconds by Alexei Ponikarovsky and Wayne Simmonds in the second period staked the Los Angeles Kings to a 3-1 lead and they held on to defeat the Dallas Stars 5-2 Thursday night at the American Airlines Center in a battle between the Pacific Division’s two top teams.

Dustin Brown, Willie Mitchell and Justin Williams also scored for Los Angeles, which moved into first place in the Western Conference with a 7-3-0 record. Defenseman Jack Johnson added three assists while goaltender Jonathan Quick was outstanding, making 30 saves.

For the Stars, they dropped their third straight game, all at home, after opening the season 5-1-0. Brad Richards and Brandon Segal scored for Dallas.

Ponikarovsky’s goal at 13:05 of the second period snapped a 1-1 tie, as he jammed home a point-blank rebound after Dallas netminder Kari Lehtonen stopped Simmonds’ shot from the left corner.

After the ensuing face-off, a slick pass from Johnson sprung Simmonds on a breakaway,as he tried a deke to the backhand that Lehtonen saved with his pad.

But Simmonds’ forward motion took him right into Lehtonen, jarring the puck over the line as he also knocked the net off its moorings. The play was originally called ‘no goal’ on the ice, but a video review overturned the decision.

A short-handed goal by Mitchell 4:40 into the third period further deflated Dallas, prompting a goalie change to backup Andrew Raycroft, who made his first appearance of the season.

Segal’s sharp-angle wrist shot just past the midway point of the third brought Dallas to within 4-2, but Williams sealed it with an empty netter with 1:41 remaining.

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Thursday, October 28, 2010

Latest Sports Buzz

Latest Sports Buzz

Red Wings Execs Visit Commissioner Bettman`s NHL Radio Show

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:28 PM PDT

AHN Sports Staff

NY, NY, United States (AHN) – Detroit Red Wings senior vice-president Jim Devellano and executive vice president and general manager Ken Holland, are Thursday’s guests on NHL Hour With Commissioner Gary Bettman on NHL.com and SIRIUS XM Radio at 6 p.m. ET.

The show will be broadcast live from Joe Louis Arena in Detroit.

Devellano will be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame on November 8 in the builder’s category as one of the most accomplished executives in the game.

He will enter the HHOF alongside Dino Ciccarelli, Cammi Granato, Angela James and Daryl ‘Doc’ Seaman.

The Red Wings are off to a good start in 2010-11 losing only once in regulation time through the first seven games (5-1-1). They play host to the Phoenix Coyotes at Joe Louis Arena tomorrow night.

NHL Hour with Commissioner Gary Bettman broadcasts live on Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. ET on NHL Home Ice (XM Channel 204 and on SIRIUS Channel 208 as part of the “Best of XM” programming package) and NHL.com.

The show will re-air on SIRIUS XM Radio, with archived shows available for download via podcast on NHL.com.

The show encourages fans to call in with questions for the Commissioner. To submit questions to NHL Hour call 1-877-645-6696.

NHL Hour with Commissioner Gary Bettman is a production of NHL Radio.

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Report: Ex-Mets Skipper Valentine To Get Brewers Post

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:28 PM PDT

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Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

Milwaukee, WI, United States (AHN) – Former Mets and Rangers manager Bobby Valentine, one of the finalists in the Brewers’ search for a new manager, is reportedly in line to be the next skipper in Milwaukee.

According to the Wisconsin Radio Network, citing a source, the 60-year-old Valentine and the Brewers agreed in principle, but have not reached contract terms, MLB.com reported.

Valentine, who led the Mets to two postseason appearances as manager, including a World Series appearance in 2000 vs. the Yankees, is asking about $10 million over three years.

Meanwhile, the Brewers are keeping the process quiet from their end.

Multiple reports, however, dispel previous reports indicating that the Brewers have convinced Valentine to leave his ESPN job to take over the vacant managerial post in Milwaukee.

Valentine, currently an analyst for ESPN, reportedly indicated that he had met once with Brewers GM Doug Melvin about the position, but added that there had been no discussion at all about a contract.

Melvin indicated through PR man Mike Vassallo that there is no agreement in principle with Valentine to be the next manager of the Brewers, SBNation.com reported.

Melvin has been conducting his search behind closed doors.

Mets scout Bob Melvin, White Sox bench coach Joey Cora and Angels coach Ron Roenicke are the reported finalist for the position.

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Hot On Ice: Flyers Danny Briere Off To Fast Start

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:28 PM PDT

Ed Condran – AHN Sports Correspondent

Philadelphia, PA, United States (AHN) – Danny Briere is carrying his outstanding playoff run into the first month of the season. The Flyers gifted goal scorer set a franchise record with 30 points during the Eastern Conference Champion’s Stanley Cup run last spring.

Briere, 33, who led the NHL in post-season points, is in high gear early this season with six goals and two assists in nine games.

“I’m just trying to play as well as I can,” Briere said. “I’m having fun out there and I’m finding the back of the net.”

Part of the reason for Briere’s hot play is his line, which includes Scott Hartnell and Ville Leino. The troika, which started playing as a unit during the playoffs, has become the offensively-challenged Flyers go-to line early in the season.

“It’s a lot of fun to play with Danny,” Leino said. “He’s such a talented player and a great teammate. You know if you get him the puck and he has a little room, he’s going to create something. He will turn something into a scoring chance. That shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone since he’s one of the best players in the league.”

Briere, who has 236 goals and over 500 points during his 13-year career, is a scoring machine. However, Flyers fans thought that he might be a bit fragile after missing more than half of the 2008-09 season with injuries. The Flyer faithful were also disgusted with Briere’s disappointing 2009-10 regular season, in which he finished with just 53 points.

“But I think Danny proved who he really is during the playoffs,” Leino said. “You have your ups and downs in this game but I think Danny has had more ups and he is on his way to having a really good season. “

Briere is having his best October since he scored nine goals in 2005 when he was a Buffalo Sabre.

“It’s a long season but it’s good to get started playing well,” Briere said. “But it’s not about me. It’s about the team playing well. Hopefully this is the start of something good and we can all relax a little bit and play better as a team.”

Briere is fortunate to be able to play at all. Days after the playoffs ended last June he and his 9-year old son Cameron lived through a terrifying crash with a tractor-trailer just outside of Binghamton, NY, en route to suburban Ottawa, where Briere’s parents reside.

Briere’s 2010 Range Rover drifted into the lane and hit the tractor-trailer, which jackknifed and toppled over. Briere’s automobile hit a guard rail. The Range Rover was totaled and Briere and his son were fortunate to walk away from the wreck relatively unscathed.

“We’re just glad to have Danny healthy and playing for us,” Leino said. “We’re very lucky. He’s a key player on the team.”

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Brazil Women Aim To End Woes At World Volleyball Championship

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:28 PM PDT

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AHN Sports Staff

Tokyo, Japan (AHN) – The Brazilian women’s national volleyball team has once again entered the competition in top form, as it guns for its first gold medal finish at the 2010 FIVB Women’s World Volleyball Championship in Japan.

After coming up short four years ago, the Brazilians will finally have another shot to break their world championship woes starting Friday, when they open up their group stage assignments against Kenya.

Brazil, which lost to Russia in a thrilling five-set finals in 2006, already sent a strong message even before the competition starts as they dismantled Japan 25-22, 25-20, 25-14 in a one sided friendly Monday.

During the match, Brazil unleashed an all-out offensive onslaught, hurting the Japanese side from all directions.

The Brazilians also kept the home crowd from being a factor in the game, as they buried the Japanese side with their rocked solid defense.

Jose Roberto Guimaraes, the man behind Brazil’s Olympic and Grand Prix success, is confident they will overcome the jinx that kept the squad from the gold in 13 World Championship appearances.

Brazil was drawn in pool B, along with Italy, Kenya, Puerto Rico, Czech Republic, and the Netherlands.

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NCAA Won`t Suspend NFL Rookies Who Broke College Rules

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:28 PM PDT

Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

New York, NY, United States (AHN) – As the NCAA and pro football officials seek solutions to player-agent problems, the NCAA has reportedly indicated it will not push for NFL rookie suspensions.

On Wednesday, the NCAA said suspensions for NFL rookies who accept extra benefits as college players “are not currently under consideration.”

The NCAA’s decision could have been influenced by the NFL Players Association stance against penalizing its members for any misdeeds in college.

“The NFLPA is opposed to any penalty being imposed upon a player in the NFL for conduct relating to the receipt of benefits in violation of NCAA rules while the player was in college,” the NFLPA said in a statement.

“However, we will continue to discuss with the NCAA and others issues relating to the conduct of agents certified by the NFLPA as they interact with NCAA players.”

The NCAA is in the process of identifying potential solutions as well as opportunities for greater collaboration between the NCAA, the NFL and its union, and state government officials.

The group is expected to meet again next month.

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Yanks` Sabathia To Undergo Knee Surgery Friday

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:28 PM PDT

Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

New York, NY, United States (AHN) – New York Yankees ace CC Sabathia, who was diagnosed with a torn meniscus in his right knee, will undergo surgery Friday to address the problem.

According to the New York Post, which first reported the need to undergo surgery, the Yankees four-time All-Star selection was diagnosed Tuesday with the injury at New York Presbyterian Hospital.

The injury, which does not appear significant, will require at least three week’s recovery time.

“Nothing major,” the 2009 ALCS MVP winner said in a text message Wednesday, according to the Post. “[It] nagged me all year. [I] should be ready to work out in three weeks.”

He is expected to begin a pre-training routine three-to-six weeks after the operation.

The diagnosis of the injury came less than a week after the 30-year-old left-hander scattered 11 hits and two runs in six innings in a win over the Texas Rangers in Game 5 of the AL Championship Series.

The Yankees were eventually dethroned by the Rangers.

The knee problem may have factored in the postseason performance of Sabathia, who had a Cy Young-caliber regular season, where he went 21-7 with a 3.18 ERA.

He also had 197 strikeouts in 34 starts in his second season in New York.

In the postseason, he won two of his three starts. He posted a 5.63 ERA, allowing 21 hits and seven walks in 16 innings for the Yankees.

Sabathia, who was drafted in the first round of the 1998 MLB Draft by Cleveland, owns a 157-88 career record with a 3.57 ERA and a 1.23 walks/hits per innings pitched.

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Habs Dominate Isles In Home Opener, Extend Win-Streak

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:28 PM PDT

Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

Montreal, QC, Canada (AHN) – Jeff Halpern scored the winning goal in the third period, as the Montreal Canadiens extended their winning streak to three with a 5-3 victory over the New York Islanders Wednesday night at Bell Centre.

Halpern’s game winner at 6:56 in the final stanza was his third goal of the season. He also had an assist in the win.

Tomas Plekanec and Andrei Kostitsyn also tallied a goal and an assist for the Canadiens, who have won three straight and five of six.

Montreal’s starting netminder Carey Price, who has started each of the Canadiens’ games, turned aside 18 shots to improve to 6-2-1.

James Wisnewski ended with three points, registering a goal and two assists for the Islanders. Doug Weight had a goal and a helper in defeat.

Dwayne Roloson was charged with the loss, stopping 30-of-34 shots.

John Tavares, who is coming off his first career hat trick in the Islanders loss in Florida, also lit the lamp by pounding home New York’s second power-play goal early in the third frame.

That goal by Tavares, the first overall pick in the 2009 draft, made it 3-2 before Halpern scored the eventual game-winner.

New York finished 2-of-4 on the power play, while Montreal went 0-of-3 with the extra skater.

The Islanders, who dropped to their second consecutive loss, will host the Habs Friday night at Nassau Coliseum.

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James Jones Hot From Three As Heat Take Down Sixers

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:27 PM PDT

Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter

Philadelphia, PA, United States (AHN) – Dwyane Wade led all scorers with 30 points and James Jones went 6-for-9 from three to finish with 20 as the Miami Heat held back a late Sixers rally to grab a 97-87 win in Philadelphia Wednesday.

LeBron James added 16 points, six rebounds and seven assists and Chris Bosh had 15 points and seven rebounds. James, however, committed nine turnovers and combined with Bosh to shoot just 11-for-24 from the field.

Miami led 49-41 at the half, but exploded out of the break to outscore the Sixers 31-13 in the third quarter.

New Sixers coach Doug Collins opted to go into the final quarter with his bench, and the Sixers reserves responded.

Evan Turner powered a late 15-3 run to finish with 16 points in his NBA debut. Philly outscored Miami 33-17 in the fourth, but couldn’t get any closer than seven down.

Lou Williams and Thaddeus Young had 15 off the bench for the Sixers (0-1), who host the Hawks Friday.

Miami (1-1) hosts the Orlando Magic in its home opener Friday.

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Giants Crack Lee To Take World Series Game 1 From Rangers

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:27 PM PDT

Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter

San Francisco, CA, United States (AHN) – What was supposed to be a pitchers’ duel turned into a slugfest as the San Francisco Giants, led by Freddy Sanchez’s three doubles, battered Cliff Lee and the Texas Rangers 11-7 in Game 1 of the World Series Wednesday night.

Sanchez became the first ever player to hit doubles in his first three World Series at-bats, finishing 4-for-5 with three RBI.

Texas took an early 2-0 lead after the second inning on RBI from Vlad Guerrero and Elvis Andrus. With Lee dealing, the game seemed headed in the Rangers’ direction.

Sanchez had another idea, knocking in the Giants first run in the third and putting San Fran ahead for good in the fifth.

Lee would cough up seven runs (six earned) in just 4 2-3 innings, earning his first-ever postseason loss in his ninth try.

The Rangers fielding didn’t help, committing four errors in the game. Two were committed by regular designated hitter Guerrero, who was forced to play right field in the National League park.

Juan Uribe hit a three-run blast and four other Giants knocked in a run. Tim Lincecum gave up four runs in 5 2-3 innings for the win.

The 106th World Series continues with Game 2 Thursday. The Giants send Matt Cain to the hill to face the Rangers C.J. Wilson.

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‘Hawks Topple Kings; Hossa Injured In Win

Posted: 28 Oct 2010 04:27 PM PDT

Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor

Chicago, IL, United States (AHN) – Marty Turco stopped 33 shots, as the Chicago Blackhawks get back in the win column with a 3-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings Wednesday night at United Center.

Viktor Stalberg recorded the deciding goal in the second for the Blackhawks, who snapped a two-game losing streak.

It could be a costly win for the defending Stanley Cup champions Blackhawks, who lost winger Marian Hossa early in the second period with an undisclosed injury.

Hossa did not return to the game.

Jake Dowell and Patrick Sharp also lit the lamp for the victors.

Justin Williams accounted for the lone goal for the Kings.

Los Angeles backup Jonathan Bernier took the loss after allowing three goals on 28 shots.

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