Most afternoons, after the players had drifted away from Tottenham's training centre, Tim Sherwood would sit for hours with his coaches Chris Ramsey and Les Ferdinand in the staff canteen. They were always together, forming an alliance after Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy made Sherwood responsible for the club's youth and Under 21 programmes in 2008. On Tuesday evening they will be in opposing dug-outs at Villa Park, trying to lead their teams away from relegation danger in these final, fraught weeks of the Barclays Premier League season. Tim Sherwood (from left to right), Les Ferdinand and Chris Ramsey during their time at White Hart Lane . Sherwood (right) sits on the bench with Tottenham Hotspur staff Ferdinand (centre) and Ramsey (left) Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor celebrates his goal by saluting Sherwood (right) and Ramsey (centre) Whatever happens between Sherwood's Aston Villa and Ramsey's Queens Park Rangers, where Ferdinand is now head of football operations, the three men will remain firm friends. The bond is strong even if Sherwood is blocking Ramsey's mobile phone calls temporarily. 'What would we talk about?' said Sherwood on Monday. 'You can't share team notes. I keep red- buttoning him! All we could say is, "How's the family, are you all right? OK, see you Tuesday".' Sherwood and Ramsey forged their friendship at Tottenham. Someone, somewhere is always working an angle with Levy, but they looked out for each other at a club regarded as the most political in the English top flight. Intriguingly, Sherwood hinted on Monday that if Ramsey's tenure at Loftus Road proves short-lived, he would ask to bring him to Villa. 'I would have to speak to the club about whether we could find a role for him here,' confirmed Sherwood. 'I know I'm biased but he is up there with the very best coaches I have ever seen. 'He is a street kid. He knows how to talk to them. You could ask him two minutes before to put on a session for 40 players and he could do it.' Sherwood and Ramsey are credited with guiding some of the brightest young talents at Spurs and helping them break into the first team. Sherwood and Ramsey forged their friendship at Tottenham and remain close ahead of their showdown . The bond between the two remains strong even if Sherwood is blocking Ramsey's mobile phone calls for now . Sherwood hinted that if Ramsey's tenure at Loftus Road ends, then he would ask to bring him to Villa Park . Harry Kane, Andros Townsend and Ryan Mason, who all played in England's 1-1 draw in Italy last week, were brought through Tottenham's youth system by this coaching collective. Some at Spurs bridle at the idea that the trio are wholly responsible for their development, but you can't deny their influence. Next season, for example, England Under 21 midfielder Alex Pritchard will return from his loan at Brentford and is expected to be named in Tottenham's 25-man first-team squad. Joshua Onomah, who made his debut for Tottenham in January and also captains the youth team, is another discovery. Sherwood took to Ramsey when he was gaining knowledge of youth football after he accepted a new role at Tottenham in 2012. Ramsey, who played right back for Brighton in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United in the 1983 FA Cup final, was brought into Tottenham in 2005 by academy director John McDermott and initially assigned to the Under 14 team. The pair had met at the FA, where Ramsey had worked after an ill-fated coaching spell alongside former Luton player Ricky Hill at Kenilworth Road. Ramsey still lives in Bedfordshire, a short drive from Sherwood's imposing house in Dagnall, Buckinghamshire, which he bought when he was a Blackburn player. Ramsey pictured on the touchline during a QPR match as he tries to save the club from relegation . Ramsey must put his friendship with Sherwood on ice for the time being as he tries to see off his pal's team . Ramsey still lives in Bedfordshire - a short drive from Sherwood's imposing house in Buckinghamshire . When Sherwood accepted his role as development co-ordinator, shipping players out on loan to gain experience (often to Swindon, where Lee Power, a friend from his playing days at Norwich, is chairman), Tottenham's players flourished. On matchdays he often scouted players with Ferdinand. As they became more involved with youth development, preferring to educate their own players rather than recruit expensive youngsters, they gained Levy's trust. When Andre Villas-Boas pushed the self-destruct button in December 2013, all three moved into the dug-out following Sherwood's appointment. It was short-lived. Sherwood and his staff left at the end of the season after Levy opted for Mauricio Pochettino. Sherwood was expected to follow Ferdinand and Ramsey to QPR when Harry Redknapp quit. But he had also struck up a relationship with Villa director of recruitment Paddy Riley and that is the reason Sherwood and Ramsey face each other on Tuesday night.

Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood faces Chris Ramsey's QPR on Tuesday . Both clubs are fighting relegation from the Premier League this season . Sherwood and Ramsey will put their friendship aside when they meet .


Raheem Sterling 'never once' told his manager Brendan Rodgers that he wants to leave Liverpool, and is focused on his football. Sterling gave an interview last week in which he suggested he was considering his future at the club, and the forward has not yet signed a new contract. But Rodgers insisted that he has no worries about Sterling departing in the summer, and that he will continue to play throughout the rest of the season. Brendan Rodgers insists that his relationship with Raheem Sterling is as strong as ever . Sterling has never said he wants to leave the club according to his manager, despite his contract dispute . 'There's never any concern about that relationship,' Rodgers told BT Sport before Liverpool's game against Arsenal on Saturday. 'My relations with Raheem are very strong and never once has he said he wants to leave. I speak to him every day. 'As a young player you make mistakes but I know Raheem very well and have seen him develop as a young man and we aim to carry on that development. 'He is a very strong character and there was never any thought I would leave him out.' Sterling did suggest he is considering his future at the club during a BBC interview last week . But Rodgers claims he is still focused on playing for Liverpool during the remainder of the season .

Raheem Sterling has not signed new Liverpool contract . Sterling gave an interview last week suggesting he might want to leave . But Brendan Rodgers insists the forward has never expressed desire to go .


Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has fanned the flames of Raheem Sterling's contract stand-off with Liverpool by insisting he would sell any player who wanted to leave his club. Sterling's commitment to Liverpool is in doubt after he gave a televised interview on Wednesday explaining why he has chosen to put talks over a new deal on hold. As Sportsmail revealed on Thursday, Chelsea are interested in the 20-year-old and have been asked to be kept updated on his future. Arsenal are also keen on the England international. Raheem Sterling, pictured in training on Thursday, has rejected a new £100,000-a-week deal with Liverpool . Jose Mourinho insists that he would sell any of his Chelsea players if they did not want to play for the club . Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is adamant that Sterling will not be sold in the summer transfer window . Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers will play Sterling at Arsenal in Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash despite the player admitting that he is 'flattered' by interest from the north London club. Rodgers insists Sterling is not for sale this summer at any price, despite his reluctance to sign an extension. But Mourinho said: 'I don't like players that don't want to play for me and my club. My opinion is every player has a price. 'It doesn't matter which player. If you ask me, for example, do I want Eden Hazard to leave Chelsea? No. If he wants to leave and doesn't want to work with me, doesn't want to play for Chelsea, does he have a price? I think he has. But I also understand the philosophy of managers and clubs who want to keep the players at any price. My philosophy is not better than that, it's just mine.' Mourinho and Chelsea are interested in Sterling and could make a move for him at the end of the season . Sterling will start against Arsenal  despite admitting it was 'quite flattering' to be linked with the Gunners . Mourinho watches Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Filipe Luis and Nemanja Matic (L-R) in training at Cobham on Friday . Rodgers has resisted the temptation to leave out Sterling on Saturday after a turbulent three days following his revelation of the reasons for stalling over a new £100,000-a-week contract. Sterling's remarks about being flattered by Arsenal's interest have only added to suspicions that his representatives are trying to engineer a move to London. But Rodgers believes that Sterling will react 'very strongly' to the situation and has the right temperament to handle a game that Liverpool need to win to close a six-point gap on Arsenal in the race for a top-four finish. 'He will play,' said the Liverpool boss. 'If it was a different player I would maybe have something to think about. But with this kid, since he has come in, trained and worked with me, he has been phenomenal and I expect him to go there and perform at a high level. 'I think he is a strong character. He's a young boy, still learning, on and off the field, but I don't think there was anything derogatory to Liverpool. I know he loves the club and I expect him to perform at a high level.' Rodgers says he expects Sterling to 'perform at a high level' against Arsenal despite his contract wrangle . Sterling has attracted interest from clubs including Arsenal, Manchester City and Bayern Munich . Kolo Toure, pictured being challenged by Steven Gerrard, believes Sterling should remain at Anfield . Kolo Toure, meanwhile, has warned that leaving Anfield could see Sterling end up on the scrapheap at another club, in a similar way that occurred with Jack Rodwell and Scott Sinclair at Manchester City. The English pair, who used to play with Toure at City, played just nine Premier League games between them after moving to the Etihad. Toure told the Liverpool Echo: 'Both Rodwell and Sinclair went to a club where there is big competition and didn't play. 'If Raheem left Liverpool he would not be sure to start games. Make a mistake or don't score for two games and he will be on the bench. He needs to stay here. This is the best place for him.'

Raheem Sterling has rejected a new £100,000-a-week deal at Liverpool . Chelsea, Arsenal and Bayern Munich are interested in the 20-year-old . Jose Mourinho says he would sell any player who did not want to stay . Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that Sterling will start against Arsenal . Kolo Toure believes his team-mate should remain at Anfield .


Michael Owen has warned Raheem Sterling that life after Liverpool may not be all he hopes it to be after the England youngster revealed this week that he had rejected a £100,000-a-week deal at Anfield. Owen, like Sterling, started his senior career at Liverpool but eventually moved on to Real Madrid in 2004. But he says the 20-year-old is not good enough to make the same move to the Spanish capital. Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City are all said to be interested in the hottest property in English football, but Liverpool are determined not to let one of their star players leave, even with his contract expiring at the end of next season. Michael Owen has warned Raheem Sterling that leaving Liverpool may not be all he hopes it would be . Owen, like Sterling, started his senior career at Liverpool but eventually moved on to Real Madrid . Owen feels that Sterling is in a great place to develop, having done the same during his time at Anfield . Owen feels that Sterling is in a great place to develop, but argues that it doesn't mean the youngster owes the club anything. 'There is no question he (Sterling) has been at the perfect place to learn his trade and he has been managed fantastically well so far,' Owen said. 'But that shouldn't mean he should be indebted to the extent of feeling he owes everything to the club. If the club created top players from nothing then everyone would make it. 'A club is quick to get rid of a player when they don't serve a purpose anymore so why should a player not do what's best for him when the boot is on the other foot?' Owen scored 158 goals during his time at Liverpool, spending eight seasons on Merseyside until 2004 . Owen bursts away from Bruno Ngotty of Bolton Wanderers before he left Liverpool for Real Madrid . Owen left Liverpool for Real Madrid in a £16.8million move in 2004 before later moving on to Newcastle United . Sterling is expected to start for Liverpool in Saturday's lunchtime kick-off against Arsenal after Brendan Rodgers stated his intention to keep hold of the winger. And Owen says that the lack of a place in Real or Barcelona's teams mean that the only move he could make away from Anfield would be a sideways one. Sterling spoke in an interview with the BBC this week about his career ambitions and turning down the deal . The presence of Cristiano Ronaldo and co leave Owen unconvinced that a move to Spain would be right . 'Having watched him closely throughout his professional career, it it is fair to say that his progress has been spectacular,' he wrote on sportlobster. But he is still a notch or two off being "world class". 'I don't see what realistic options he has got if a move away from Anfield was on his mind. He wouldn't get into Real Madrid's or Barcelona's teams and any other move surely has to be seen as a move sidewards?'

Raheem Sterling has stalled over signing a new contract with Liverpool . Michael Owen says any viable move for winger would be a sideways one . Owen left Liverpool for Real Madrid in a £16.8million move in 2004 . He says Sterling does not owe his career to the Anfield club .


Some tour guides will do anything for a good tip. In the Australian outback, if you want to get up-close and personal with a mob of local Emus, you need a guide who will get down and dirty ... apparently. In a video posted online by YouTube user Ratbag Nomad, one man, referred to as Australianwidefishingguide, shows tourists how it's done. Emus are notoriously curious flightless birds of Australia . As the tour guide started peddling his legs slowly in the air, the mob of emus started coming closer . And closer . The video, filmed from a vehicle on an empty dirt road in the bush, shows the guide lying down on his back and kicking his legs in the air to lure a mob of emus in the distance. Peddling his legs to the sky, he looks like something between  an up-side down bicycle rider and a dead cockroach. Sure enough, the Emus - known to be especially curious birds - come close to see what's going on, then scatter as the guide leaps to his feat. A good leg in the air does the trick . As the guide leapt to his feet, the inquisitive birds scattered . It's thought to be an old Aboriginal trick to catch an emu - whose meat was highly valued for its oils. Emus belong to the same family of flightless birds as the ostrich and the cassowary. Capable of reaching running speeds of up to 70 km/hour, they're said to be able to 'run the pants off a Kangaroo.' The manoeuvre is thought to be an old Aboriginal trick to catch an emu - a bird whose meat was highly valued for its oils but who are too fast to catch on foot .

Tour guide gets down in the dirt to attract a mob of emus in the outback . The flightless birds are able to reach running speeds of 70 kms/hr . The manoeuvre is thought to be an old Aboriginal technique to catch emus .


Arsenal's Olivier Giroud and Arsene Wenger have been named as the Barclays Premier League Player and Manager of the Month for March - with the France striker thwarting Harry Kane's bid for a third award in a row. Giroud netted five times in Arsenal's four consecutive league wins last month as Wenger's side took all 12 points on offer. The Gunners are now a point behind second-placed Manchester City with eight games remaining. Olivier Giroud (left) and Arsene Wenger are the Premier League Player and Manager of the Month . Striker Giroud scored five goals in four games for Arsenal in March to earn the award . Wenger inspired Arsenal to four victories from four games in the Premier League . Arsenal sit third in the Premier League following their impressive March, seven points behind Chelsea . March 1 Arsenal 2-0 Everton (1 Giroud goal) March 4 QPR 1-2 Arsenal (1) March 14 Arsenal 3-0 West Ham (1) March 21 Newcastle United 1-2 Arsenal (2) Giroud's impressive form stopped Tottenham striker Kane  from becoming the first player to take three consecutive Player of the Month gongs. 'I'm really pleased with it,' Giroud told Arsenal's official website. 'I would like to thank my team-mates and of course the fans, because it's a collective sport and I couldn't do it on my own. 'It's a great honour to have been selected as Player of the Month, especially because we wanted to bounce back from the Champions League disappointment. 'That's what we've done and we've come back really strongly. We all want to finish strongly and this award will give me more confidence for the following games.' Kane also fired five goals in four appearances for Mauricio Pochettino's side in March, including his first ever Premier League hat-trick when Spurs beat Leicester City 4-3 at White Hart Lane. But it was Giroud who took the honours after finding the back of the net in all of Arsenal's league encounters. He opened proceedings in Arsenal's 2-0 home win over Everton and got another in the 2-1 victory against London rivals Queens Park Rangers. Harry Kane also scored five times for Tottenham in March but missed out on player of the month . Kane (second right) holds the ball after his first Premier League hat-trick for Tottenham against Sunderland . Kane (centre) scored both goals as Tottenham beat Queens Park Rangers 2-1 at Loftus Road . His impressive form continued when he got the first goal in the 3-0 home victory over West Ham before spearheading Arsenal's attack once again with both goals in the 2-1 win at Newcastle. Arsenal host Liverpool in the early Premier League game on Saturday knowing another victory would move them nine points ahead of Brendan Rodgers' side and above City, who play Crystal Palace on Monday.

Arsenal won all four of their Premier League games in March . Striker Olivier Giroud scored five times in four appearances . Spurs' Harry Kane was bidding for a third straight monthly award .


What if someone took your greatest insecurities and body image fears, and voiced them out loud? Known for its empowering campaigns and championing of real women, Dove has taken a more brutal approach in its latest advertisement. Showing the harsh criticism that women regularly heap upon themselves, Dove decided to see what would happen when somebody else said those things, to their faces. Scroll down for video . For the new One Beautiful Thought ad campaign, Dove asked a group of women to write down every thought they had about themselves. The women filled in a notebook each, and handed it back to Dove . Unbeknownst to the women, those negative remarks and self-body shaming were turned into a script . Created in France, Dove asked a group of women - all beautiful and impeccably chic - to write down every thought they had about themselves in a notebook. The beauty brand then took the notes away with them. Unbeknownst to the women, those criticisms, negative remarks and tirades of self body-shaming were turned into a script. What happened next, shocked them all. Dove recruited two undercover actresses to read the script, created using the notes each of the women made about themselves, while they were all within earshot. Their reactions were priceless . The comments featured in the actresses' scripted dialogue were harsh, cutting and bordering on bullying . Played out by two actresses, the script was read aloud as dialogue in a cafe, where the women themselves had been invited for coffee. In the experiment set up by Dove, the women heard the actresses repeat their own thoughts to each other, out loud. Making for a shocking scene, the script, which contained nothing but the original notes, was cutting to say the least. One woman felt insecure about her teeth, noting that she thought they made her look like a mouse . When the actresses repeated the insecurity out loud, while sitting on the next table, her shock was obvious . In one scenario, a customer sitting on a nearby table, not involved in the experiment, even intervenes. 'Your arms are too big, your silhouette is all squashed,' reads one remark written by a woman who looks no bigger than a size eight. 'Sit up straight otherwise your belly looks big,' the same woman continues. Several of the women's messages to themselves echo the kind of schoolyard bullying we'd all frown upon . In one scenario, a customer sitting on a nearby table, not involved in the experiment, even intervened . Several of the women's messages to themselves echo the kind of schoolyard bullying we'd all immediately frown upon. 'With your little baby teeth you look like a mouse,' says one. While another, 'your face looks like a bulldog,' when said out loud underlines the way many women effectively bully themselves every single day. Visibly shocked by the comments, the women recognise the dialogue as their own notes.'I hope my daughter never speaks to herself like that,' says one, moved to tears by the shock of the experiment . Visibly shocked by the comments, the women recognise the dialogue as their own notes. 'I hope my daughter never speaks to herself like that,' says one. While another concedes, 'yes that's what I say to myself all day long. Now, I get how violent it is!' Many of the comments written in the notebooks, when said out loud, underline the way lots of women are effectively bullying themselves every single day, by focusing on their insecurities and never their beauty . If you wouldn't speak so harshly to a friend, why do it to yourself? The One Beautiful Thought campaign is yet another in Dove's line of powerful videos, which all aim to encourage women to be kinder to themselves and each other . The One Beautiful Thought campaign is yet another in Dove's line of powerful videos. Ahead of the 2015 Academy Awards in February, the beauty brand teamed up with Twitter to create the #SpeakBeautiful video. Aired during the pre-Oscars show, the short clip championed the message, 'let's change the way we talk about beauty on Twitter, after revealing that last year women sent over five million negative tweets about body image.

Dove took self criticisms from real women and repeated them out loud . Created in France, campaign highlights the way we bully ourselves daily . 'I hope my daughter never speaks to herself like that'


Twin 18-month-old boys were pronounced dead at a hospital after being pulled from a canal in Arizona. The toddlers are believed to have fallen in the water accidentally at 9.45am on Friday in Yuma, Arizona. After a police search that lasted more than an hour, the brothers were pulled from the water. They were flown by a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter to a Yuma hospital, where they were pronounced dead, Franklin said. Tragic: Twin 18-month-old boys died after accidentally falling in a canal in Arizona on Friday morning . Detectives investigating the case believe the boys ended up in the canal by accident and don't suspect foul play, Franklin said. The area along the canal is used by families for walks and by joggers and a family member was nearby when the boys ended up in the water. Franklin would not provide details of the events that led up to the toddlers ending up in the canal. Yuma Fire Department spokesman Mike Erfert said their crews were called out on a possible drowning. Helicopters from the U.S. Border Patrol and the Marine Corps also flew over the canal searching for the boys. The Border Patrol helicopter crew spotted the brothers in the water, Erfert said, and they were pulled out at about 11.20am. Paramedics began immediate life-saving efforts and the boys were quickly loaded onto the Marine Corps helicopter for the trip to the hospital.

The brothers are believed to have fallen in the water by accident . Police searched water from 9.45am to 11.45am before finding them . They were flown to Yuma hospital where they were pronounced dead .


Paul Sturrock experienced a baptism of fire at Yeovil, as they were relegated for the second consecutive time in his first game in charge - two days after he got the job. The 58-year-old spent four days as an advisor to Conference side Torquay before jumping ship to join League One basement side Yeovil on Thursday. Sturrock has been promoted five times as a manager but Yeovil’s 1-1 draw with fellow strugglers Notts County condemned them to relegation at Huish Park. Yeovil Town manager Paul Sturrock suffered relegation with the club in only his second day in charge . County defender Haydn Hollis headed into his own net to give the hosts the lead but the visitors, in new boss Ricardo Moniz’s first match, equalised through Garry Thompson. The Glovers were tipped for promotion this season but instead, despite stopping a run of six consecutive losses, become the first League One side to be relegated. Garry Thompson's equaliser condemned the Glovers to back-to-back relegations .

Yeovil Town drew 1-1 with Notts County at Huish Park on Saturday . Result condemned Yeovil to relegation from League One . Paul Sturrock was appointed as Yeovil's latest manager on Thursday .


Former US president George H.W. Bush looked in good health on Friday as he accompanied Australian tennis player Roy Emerson at the  U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship in Houston, Texas. Bush, 90, fell ill in December and was hospitalized after complaining of shortness of breath. Smiling and enjoying the fresh air, he seemed to be in better spirits. Bush is a fan of Associated Tennis Professionals (ATP) World Tour 250 events and lives in the Houston Area with his wife Barbara. He and his wife have attended many ATP fundraisers and charity events throughout the years. In good spirits!: Former President George H.W. Bush, seated, arrives just before the quarterfinal match between Jeremy Chardy of France and Kevin Anderson from South Africa was suspended by rain . Roy Emerson, 78, who owns 28 major singles and doubles championships, is also a big fan and makes an annual appearance at the tournament. Both Bush and Emerson enjoyed watching  Kevin Anderson of South Africa battle Jeremy Chardy of France before heavy rains postponed the game. Bush looked in far better shape than he did late last year and three years prior when he was also hospitalized. Bush spent Christmas 2012 in intensive care at the same hospital while being treated for a bronchitis-related cough and other issues. He was discharged in January 2013, after nearly two months in the hospital. Bush is the oldest living former American president. Because he suffers from Parkinson's disease, he is forced to rely on a scooter or a wheelchair. In attendance: Roy Emerson, 78, who owns 28 major singles and doubles championships, is also a big fan and makes an annual appearance at the tournament .

Former US president George H.W. Bush looked in good health on Friday as he accompanied Australian tennis player Roy Emerson to a tennis game . Bush, 90, lives in the Houston Area with his wife Barbara and has attended many ATP fundraisers and charity events throughout the years . Back in December, Bush, who suffers from Parkinson's, was hospitalized for shortness of breath for about a week .


Mark O'Meara rolled back the years with one of the standout rounds of the day to make the cut at the Masters for the first time in 10 years. The 1998 champion was one over after the first round but five birdies in his second, including three in four holes on the front nine, saw him card a 68 and ensure he will still be in the running at the weekend. The 58-year-old American is the third oldest man in the field in 2015, behind Tom Watson (65) and Ben Crenshaw (63), but showed excellent form to hit his first round in the 60s at Augusta since 2001. Mark O'Meara carded a 68 on day two and ensured he will still be in the running at the weekend . O'Meara is the third oldest man in the field in 2015, behind 65-year-old Tom Watson . O’Meara is also better placed after 36 holes than he was when he won the green jacket in 1998. On that occasion he was level par for the first two rounds compared to three under this year. But he will have his work cut out if he wants to catch Jordan Spieth, who is 37 years his junior. Ben Crenshaw, aged 63, is the second oldest golfer competing at the Masters this year .

Mark O'Meara made the cut at the Masters for the first time in 10 years . O'Meara secured the title back in 1998 . The 58-year-old American is the third oldest man in the field in 2015 .


Manchester City have apologised to supporters and promised to hand out ticket refunds after coaches they laid on for free were delayed and missed the kick-off at Crystal Palace. The Premier League champions have written to 300 fans who took them up on their offer of free transport for the Bank Holiday evening clash at Selhurst Park. Palace's South London home is notoriously difficult to get to and the club acted after the game was scheduled for an 8pm start, making it impossible for supporters to travel by train. Edin Dzeko and his Manchester City team-mates reflect on their Premier League defeat at Crystal Palace . Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany looks dejected after seeing his side slump to defeat in London . However, after being sent on their way from the Etihad Stadium at 1.30pm by City legend Mike Summerbee, all of those onboard the six coaches missed the kick-off with some arriving as much as 20 minutes after the start. Some complained that Summerbee's send-off had gone on for too long and was responsible for their late arrival. Now, the club has acknowledged the coaches set off too late and have written to supporters to apologise and advise them that they will be refunding the cost of their match tickets. The letter, seen by Sportsmail, reads: 'The free coach travel was provided to enable supporters to attend this match on a day when return rail travel from Manchester wasn’t an option due to the kick-off time, and the time of the final train back to Manchester. Glenn Murray is mobbed by his Crystal Palace team-mates after he opened the scoring against Man City . Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew celebrates with the home fans during their win against Manchester City . 'We have liaised with our travel partner and wanted to advise that whilst this was a Bank Holiday, which was factored in to the journey planning, it is accepted that the coaches should have left the Etihad Stadium earlier than they did. 'As a gesture to you and all supporters who travelled on the official coaches, the club will be refunding the money that you paid for your match ticket within the next seven working days. We will contact you if we require any further details to process the refund. 'We would like to apologise for the delayed arrival at Selhurst Park and thank you for your patience and support on the day.' The move is likely to cost the club in the region of £12,000. Things did not get much better for the City fans when they finally arrived for the match as Manuel Pellegrini's side went down 2-1 to all-but-end their hopes of retaining their title.

Manchester City have apologised to supporters and promised refunds . 300 fans affected after six coaches were delayed and they missed kick-off . The move is likely to cost the Premier League champions around £12,000 . City lost the game at Palace 2-1 to seemingly end their title aspirations .


Advertising entrepreneur John Singleton is selling his breathtaking beach house on the central coast of New South Wales. Situated beside the Killcare Surf Life Saving Club, the luxurious five-bedroom abode offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Singleton bought 80 Beach Drive for a suburb record of $4.25 million in late 2007, and the agents expect bidding for the May 9 auction to will kick off at $3.5 million, reports Property Observer. The entrance to 80 Beach Drive, advertising entrepreneur John Singletons breathtaking beach house . The property offers wide open plan living areas leading onto an undercover front balcony . Singleton bought the five bedroom residence for a suburb record of $4.25 million in late 2007 . Designed by esteemed architect Karen Burke and Master-built by Matt Blair, the exquisite design captures the essence of the quintessential Australian beachside holiday home. The skillion roof-lines and extensive glazing frame the dramatic sandstone cliffs of the adjoining National Park. The master suite offers a study, dressing room, bathroom and private deck, overlooking a small waterfall and landscaped bushland. The lower level offers two more king sized bedrooms as well as a teenager’s retreat with four bunk beds and a separately contained living area or media room. The master suite offers a bathroom and private deck overlooking a small waterfall and landscaped bushland . The skillion roof-lines and extensive glazing frame the dramatic sandstone cliffs of the adjoining National Park . The exquisite design captures the essence of the quintessential Australian beachside holiday home . A one-bedroom cabin fit with a bathroom, kitchenette, living area and sandstone courtyard . Set apart from the main residence is an additional one-bedroom cabin with bathroom, kitchenette, living area and sandstone courtyard. The property has been managed as a luxury holiday house by The Bells Boutique Hotel Group since Mr Singleton choosing to stay at his New South Wales Central Coast Mt White stud farm. The property still holds a suburb record of $4.25 from 2007, with the highest sale since then being $2.7 million. The property has been managed as a luxury holiday house by The Bells Boutique Hotel Group since Mr Singleton choosing to stay at his farm, also on the Central Coast . The five king sized bedrooms offer views of the beach and the neighbouring national park . The property still holds a suburb record of $4.25 from 2007, with the highest sale since then being $2.7 million.

Advertising entrepreneur  John Singleton is selling his breathtaking beach house . The luxurious five-bedroom abode offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean . Singleton bought 80 Beach Drive for a suburb record of $4.25 million in late 2007 . The exquisite design captures the quintessential Australian beachside home .


It's a sport with a truly global reach as these images of children, amateurs and professional stars playing cricket show. The stunning shots make up the short-list for the Wisden–MCC Cricket Photograph of the Year 2014, which was won by Getty Images photographer Matthew Lewis. His image of Dwayne Bravo shows the player taking a breathtaking full-length catch for the West Indies to dismiss Australia’s James Faulkner during last year’s ICC World Twenty20 competition in Bangladesh. But portraits of ordinary players also make the list, from children on a Bangladesh rubbish tip to a club player attempting a catch in Kent. Children enjoy a game of cricket while their parents forage nearby on a rubbish tip in Dhaka, Bangladesh in an image by Abu Taher Khokon . The sun sets behind Mount Wellington in Hobart, Australia, as England's Danny Briggs bowls during a Twenty20 International match . Intrepid players take part in the 'world's highest game of cricket' in the icy summit crater of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania . The competition's winning image was taken by Matthew Lewis and captures an outrageous pouch by West Indies player Dwayne Bravo . England bowler Stuart Broad is hit in the face by the ball which breaks his nose after squeezing through the grille of his helmet . Bangladesh A's Nurul Hasan sees his stumps rearranged by South African fast bowler Dale Steyn during a limited overs game . Sri Lanka celebrate victory over England after devastated bowler Jimmy Anderson is dismissed by Shaminda Eranga . Joe Russell of Bexley Cricket Club in Kent makes an athletic but unsuccessful attempt at a catch on a boundary but the ball goes for six . England batsman Michael Carberry's defensive stroke sees his bat snap cleanly in two during a spell from Australia's Ryan Harris . Players leave the field at the end of the day's play amid long shadows during a test between South Africa and Australia . Philip Hughes, the Australian batsman who died after being struck by a ball, walks to the changing rooms during a game against Pakistan .

Images of cricket both on the pitch and in a rubbish dump in Dhaka, Bangladesh, among short-listed pictures . Winner of Wisden-MCC Cricket Photograph of the Year was Matthew Lewis' shot of Dwayne Bravo taking a catch .


Robbie Fowler is already among the names of the best Premier League strikers of all time, with only five players scoring more than his 162 goals. The former Liverpool, Leeds and Manchester City hitman broke on to the scene as a goalscoring sensation at Anfield in 1993 and would go on to win 26 caps with England. But Fowler couldn't resist naming an ultimate starting XI from players who featured during his era (with one particular Dutch striker treading a grey area!) as he names his all-star team. GOALKEEPER . Peter Schmeichel . It may be a shock for Fowler to name a Manchester United legend in his team, but the striker featured alongside the great Dane during a brief spell together at Manchester City. Peter Schmeichel celebrates a Manchester United goal in a 1999 Champions League semi-final vs Juventus . CENTRE-BACKS . Paolo Maldini . There is little surprise to see Paolo Maldini in anyone's dream team with the former AC Milan and Italy star widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time. Fernando Hierro . Fowler seemed to snub Premier League players when picking his centre-backs and although Hierro had a spell at Bolton in his twilight years, it was at Real Madrid where the former Spain record goal scorer made his mark. Fabio Cannavaro . Italy's World Cup winning captain also gains a place in Fowler's incredibly strong back three, thanks to a glittering career playing at a host of big clubs including Real Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan Parma and Napoli. Real Madrid's Fernando Hierro looks for options in a 2002 Champions League match against AEK Athens . Fabio Cannavaro gives a thumbs up sign at the Bernabeu after signing for Real Madrid in 2006 . Paolo Maldini celebrates scoring against Messina for AC Milan in a November 2006 at the San Siro . WING-BACKS . Roberto Carlos . During the late 1990s, Carlos set the bar for full-backs with his dynamic pace and incredible free-kick technique making him a stand out star for Real Madrid and Brazil. Frank de Boer . 'I'll be honest I was going to pick Gary Neville,' Fowler said. 'But I'm going to go with Frank de Boer. Sadly, Gary you can't play in my team.' Roberto Carlos spent 11 years at Madrid and gestures during a Champions League match vs Bayern Munich . Barcelona's Frank de Boer (left) beats Liverpool's Emile Hesky to the ball in a Champions League match . MIDFIELDERS . Lothar Matthaus . 'I don't really need to say too much about him, everyone knows him. He was about for years and years and won everything in the game.' Patrick Vieira . 'Arsenal and Manchester City have seen him and he was an absolute tremendous player - he loved to tackle.' Luis Figo . 'Now I've played in charity matches with Luis and he is a tremendous player - even still. ' Lothar Matthaus celebrates scoring a Bayern Munich equaliser with two minutes to play in a German league match against Arminia Bielefeld in April 1998 . Patrick Vieira takes charge of the ball for Arsenal during the 2005 FA Cup final against Manchester United . Luis Figo wheels away to celebrate after netting for Inter Milan against Parma in a 2005 Serie A clash . STRIKERS . Robbie Fowler . 'I have to pick myself. Being a bit of a player-manager I want to be in this team because there are excellent stars in it.' Marco van Basten . 'He's got everything a player needs as a forward. Van Basten is the man, I have a bit of a man-crush on him.' Liverpool and FIFA 15 Ultimate Team Legend Robbie Fowler has picked his Legends squad. To celebrate his 40th birthday EA SPORTS are challenging FIFA 15 Ultimate Team players to take on his Legends XI to win in-game prizes, available from April 9th. Find out more at http://www.easports.com/uk/fifa/ultimate-team #FowlerFUTLegends . Robbie Fowler celebrates scoring for Liverpool against West Ham in a 2001 Premier League match at Anfield . Marco van Basten salutes as his AC Milan side took on Marseille in the 1993 Champions League final . Robbie Fowler's team is based on a 3-5-2 formation with three central defenders and wing backs .

Robbie Fowler picked dream team based on players from his era . Former Liverpool star named Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel . Ex Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira picked over Steven Gerrard . Fowler named Marco van Basten as his strike partner in starting XI . Gary Neville was a late exclusion from Fowler's line-up .


A gang of fly-tippers have dumped a staggering 40 tonnes of industrial waste at the side of the road in a pretty Suffolk village. The mounds of rubbish, described by one police officer as the worst he has seen in almost 30 years, will cost the public purse thousands of pounds to clear up. It is believed the gang used three tractors and trailers to dump the industrial waste in Walsham-le-Willows, between Eye and Bury St Edmunds, . Flytipping: A 40-tonne pile of industrial waste has been dumped by the side of the road in a Suffolk village . Dumped: Police believe the fly-tippers used three tractors and trailers to transport the rubbish to the roadside . The gang piled up the rubbish, which includes materials used in the carpet and veterinary industries, at about 9.30pm on Thursday. PC Mark Bryant, a rural crime officer, said: 'It's horrific. I have never seen anything like it in my 28 years, certainly not in Suffolk, not on that scale and not as blatant.' He added: 'It's quite incredible. If it's a black bin in a layby you almost expect to see it but not three trailers full - this is unheard of. 'We do get more of it at this time of year and we have recently started a campaign against it with the NFU (National Farmers' Union) and CLA (Country Land and Business Association).' 'Horrific': PC Mark Bryant, rural crime officer, said it is the worst case of flytipping he's seen in 28 years . Campaign: Police, the National Farmers' Union and the Country Land and Business Association are trying to prevent fly-tipping . Jessica Fleming, county councillor for Walsham-le-Willows, said: 'I am obviously absolutely appalled and disappointed to hear that this has happened but I hope that the people who have done this will be caught. 'It would have been shocking for people passing in their cars - I certainly will be following this up and trying to find the culprits." Police and Environment Agency officers are now trying to clear the huge pile of waste.

Fly-tippers dumped 40 tonnes of waste in Walsham-le-Willows, Suffolk . Police believe culprits used three tractors and trailers to transport rubbish . An officer described it as the worst case he has seen in almost 30 years .


Perhaps it was the excitement of the Grand National, but this horse fell at the first hurdle after wandering into thick mud. It was hardly Becher's Brook - one of Aintree's most notorious fences - but Cody somehow found himself stuck in the bog in Belvedere, south-east London. Crew members climbed into the watery ditch as they tried to ease the distressed animal to safety on Friday afternoon. Sticky situation: Animal rescue experts spent more than an hour rescuing Cody after he wandered into a bog . Cody was covered head to hoof in mud after being dragged to safety, but - despite being shaken by the ordeal - was otherwise unharmed. Borough Commander for Bexley Richard Welch said crews worked hard to save the horse. He added: 'One thing is certain that it won’t be running in the Grand National tomorrow.' Falling at the first hurdle: Cody got stuck in the mud after wandering into a bog in Belvedere south-east London . 'Cody has been taken back to the stables to be seen by a vet.' Fire crews were dispatched to save him from his ordeal shortly before 1.30pm and worked for an hour and a half before freeing him at 2.55pm.

Cody got stuck after wandering into ditch in Belvedere, south-east London . Animal rescue experts spent an hour and a half rescuing distressed horse . After being freed, the horse was seen by a vet and taken back to his stables .


Council chiefs were left red-faced after a leaflet promoting recycling... could not itself be recycled. The leaflet – attached to green bins – told Stratford-upon-Avon residents what items could go in them. But a footnote said: 'This is not recyclable.' Earlier this year, residents in the Stratford district were named as among the best recyclers in England, the Stratford Observer reported. Council chiefs in Stratford-upon-Avon were left red-faced after a leaflet promoting recycling... could not itself be recycled (file photo) According to official government figures, Stratford District Council was in the top ten councils for recycling and composting for the second year running. The recycling rate of just over 59 per cent for 2013/14 put Stratford eighth out of 352 authorities nationwide. District spokesman Councillor Mike Brain said: 'This is great news and it's thanks to our residents that we've been able to achieve this result with their commitment and support for recycling. 'The service we provide is designed to make recycling easy and our residents have responded to that by ensuring they recycle as much rubbish as possible and by limiting the amount of other waste that is produced. 'It is important that residents continue to recycle and one of the reasons why we are performing so high is because more residents are regularly putting food in the green bin and the weekly collection of electric / electronic goods, textiles and batteries is still proving very popular.' The leaflet – attached to green bins – told Stratford-upon-Avon residents what items could go in them but a footnote said: 'This is not recyclable' (file photo)

Council chiefs attached the leaflets which promoted recycling to green bins . It told Stratford-upon-Avon residents what could and could not go in them . But embarrassingly, a footnote on the poster read: 'This is not recyclable'


Perth Glory supporters, who set off a series of flares, will face the prospect of a five year ban after the club slumped to a 3-0 defeat to Sydney FC. Police have charged two teenagers for allegedly setting off flares during which a 13-year-old boy suffered burns to his leg at around 7.10pm in Friday's clash at nib Stadium in Perth. The 16-year-old boy, from Bicton,  has been charged with grievous bodily harm and use of signals and flares. He will appear before the Perth Children’s Court on May 6. The 15-year-old, from Palmyra, has been charged with grievous bodily harm and will appear in Perth Children's Court on May 8. Scroll down for video . Perth Glory fans set off a flare during the round 25 A-League match between the Perth Glory and Sydney FC at nib Stadium on Friday night . As angry fans vented their frustration at the club's hierarchy on Friday, a series of flares were set off within the club's active supporter group section amid wild scenes. Things escalated after Sydney went 3-0 up in the second half, with the supporter base venturing onto the concourse to set off more flares. NIB Stadium operators VenuesWest has threatened a five year ban on the patrons who were involved with setting the flares off within the stadium, Perth Now reports. VenuesWest chief executive David Etherton said the organisation will work with police to investigate the incident and CCTV footage to collect all related evidence. 'Anyone who is caught setting off flares within nib Stadium will immediately receive a lengthy ban,' he said. The crowd gather to watch a flare set off during the match as Sydney FC go on to win the match 3-0 . Perth Glory supporters, who set off a series of flares, will face the prospect of a five year ban . The incident follows as Glory were evicted from competing in the finals series and fined $269,000 after being found guilty of breaching the salary cap over a three-year period. Football Federation Australia claimed the club deliberately hid salary cap rorting for three seasons and failing to disclose payments and benefits to at least six players. Despite the club sitting equal top of the ladder with just two rounds remaining, Glory will now finish at seventh spot unless they launch a successful appeal against FFA's findings. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Perth Glory fans, who set off flares, will face the prospect of a five year ban . This comes after police charged two teens for allegedly setting of flares . A 13-year-old boy suffered burns to his leg and was taken to hospital . The 16-year-old and 15-year-old were charged with grievous bodily harm . The pair will appear at the Perth Children's Court next month .


Roberto Martinez has ruled Darron Gibson out of the rest of the season after he underwent tests on his damaged metatarsal. The Everton midfielder was hurt in the 2-1 win over Queens Park Rangers last month but Martinez was hopeful that Gibson would be able to play some part in the final seven matches of the campaign. Now, though, he has been forced to admit defeat with that plan. It is a blow for the Everton manager, whose side have staged a mini-revival in recent weeks, but he insists there is positive lining in that Gibson, who missed almost all of Martinez's first campaign with cruciate ligament damage, does not require surgery. Everton midfielder Darron Gibson will not play again this season after damaging his metatarsal . Everton manager Roberto Martinez expects Gibson to return to pre-season in the best possible shape . Martinez now expects the former Manchester United midfielder to return to pre-season in the best possible shape and maintains he has a crucial role to play in Everton's future. 'I don't think we are going to see him this season,' said Martinez. 'But I am not too worried about that. It is a tricky injury because if you don't heal it properly, it could come back. We need to make sure he is 100 per cent. If he is fully fit for pre-season, that would be fantastic. 'Darron has been through a lot. We don't have another player like him in the squad. We are trying to support him. He can add that calm feeling, he has shown his worth and what he is capable of adding. But it is tough, I won't lie. It is devastating for him. 'We just have to look at the positive that he doesn't need surgery, as at one point it looked very likely.' Martinez, meanwhile, has admitted Romelu Lukaku is only '50/50' to be involved in Saturday's trip to Swansea owing to a hamstring injury. The Belgian international, whose future on Merseyside has been the subject of speculation, has only been making slow progress. Everton striker Romelu Lukaku is only '50/50' to be involved against Swansea due to a hamstring injury . We will give him as much time as we can,' said Martinez. 'It is still 50/50 as to whether he will make it. We need to make sure he is 100 per cent before we put him on the football pitch again. It is not a big problem but we do not want to take any risks with him. 'But we are very strong in terms of numbers. The squad is developing really strong competition for places. We want everyone fit and available. The squad is big enough to cope with these problems. After the demands of Europe, we have fully focused on the league. 'We have been able to cope with the mental fatigue. I do feel that we will learn and the focus is getting good momentum in the season. There are lessons to learn. We are now a more mature team. It's been a tough season and we will learn our lesson. We want to continue our momentum.'

Darron Gibson was injured in Everton's 2-1 win over Queens Park Rangers . Roberto Martinez hopes midfielder will be 100 per cent fit for pre-season . The Toffees travel to the Liberty Stadium to take on Swansea on Saturday .


The body of an autistic 20-year-old who left his home 44 days ago and never returned has been found floating in a creek near a golf course. Eagle Scout Brian Gewirtz told his family he was going for a walk near his Brooklyn, New York, home on February 17, but didn't come back. His family started a frantic search in the local community, warning people of his disability which made it hard for him to understand spoken language. Eagle Scout Brian Gewirtz told his family he was going for a walk near is Brooklyn, New York, home on February 17, but didn't come back . But police said Friday his body had been discovered at Marine Park Golf Club, just two miles from his home. Laura Rivera, Brian's godmother, told ABC 7: 'He was so thoughtful, and if you were sad he would sit with you for hours just hugging you and saying I love you. 'He was over 18 yes, but he had the mind of a very much younger person because of his disability, and lots of people didn't understand that and there really needs to be a law just like an amber alert. Police suspect he wandered into Marine Park back in mid-February and got disoriented. The freezing temperatures at the time mean hypothermia could also have contributed to his death. A worker in the pro shop told The New York Post the body was found near the eight hole and came up with the tide. Gewirtz’s family and friends offered a $5,000 reward if he was found alive. His family started a frantic search in the local community, warning people of his disability which made it hard for him to understand spoken language . Police said his body had been discovered at Marine Park Golf Club (pictured), just two miles from his home .

Brian Gewirtz, 20, left his home in Brooklyn, New York, on February 17 . He didn't return, sparking a frantic search from his family . His body was found in a creek near the Marine Park Golf Club . Police said he may have walked into the park and got disorientated .


Everton will look to extend Darron Gibson's contract this summer as he recovers from the latest injury setback of his career. Roberto Martinez confirmed on Thursday that the Republic of Ireland international will miss the final seven games of the season with metatarsal damage, but expects him to be ready for pre-season as he does not require surgery. Gibson has endured a wretched time over the last 18 months, not least when he ruptured cruciate ligaments, and his position at Goodison Park could be regarded as vulnerable, particularly as Everton will rekindle their long-standing interest in Tom Cleverley in the summer. Everton midfielder Darron Gibson will not play again this season after damaging his metatarsal . Everton manager Roberto Martinez expects Gibson to return to pre-season in the best possible shape . Cleverley, who has spent the season on loan at Aston Villa, will become a free agent in July when his Manchester United contract expires and, given they have worked together before at Wigan, he is a player Martinez will consider recruiting. But Martinez has moved to assure Gibson he has a place in his plans. The 27-year-old was signed by David Moyes in January 2012 and has 12 months remaining on his current deal but his manager is already looking at his situation. 'This injury has arrived at such a bad moment because he was back from another long-term injury but it's something we'll look at in the summer,' said Martinez. 'I've been very pleased with Darron. Coming back from that sort of injury you don't reach 100 per cent for a long time. Everton will look to extend Gibson's contract this summer as he is treated for his latest injury setback . Martinez has moved to assure Gibson he has a place in his plans despite holding an interest in Tom Cleverley . 'But when he's been on the pitch, he's performed really well. From the Leicester game, all his performances have been really influential. Though he's now injured, he's been able to show his worth and for me he is an important player that we want here for the future. 'We are going to see him. But I'm not too worried. It is a tricky injury because if you don't heal it properly, it could come back. We need to make sure he is 100 per cent. If he is fully fit for pre-season, that would be fantastic. We don't have another player like him in the squad. 'We are trying to support him. He can add that calm feeling, he has shown his worth and what he is capable of adding. But it is tough, I won't lie. It is devastating for him. We just have to look at the positive that he doesn't need surgery. At one point, it looked very likely.' Cleverley is a target of Martinez and with his Manchester United contract running out a move could happen . Cleverley played under Martinez at Wigan, on loan from United, and has been at Villa Park this season . Having won their last three matches against Newcastle, QPR and Southampton, Everton have put together their best sequence of results in the Barclays Premier League for more than 12 months to clamber away from a potential relegation scrap. There is no chance, however, of them qualifying for Europe next season but Martinez does not think their potential to make new signings in the summer has been effected. He feels the club's progress over the last four years means they are strong enough to withstand this disappointment. Everton have put together their best sequence of results in the Barclays Premier League in over a year . Martinez does not think their potential to make new signings has been effected by a lack of European football . 'Within football when you face an opposition losing or winning doesn't affect players,' said Martinez. 'It's how you lose and I think every player who's faced Everton this season will have come out with a real respect and a real appreciation of the way we play as a club. 'We don't rely on 10 months of results, we've got a bigger picture of what we're trying to achieve and what we've got in the squad, particularly in terms of the younger players who have been given incredible roles. So I think the perception of Everton has improved in the last 12 months. 'We know the positions that we need to strengthen in the summer. It's something we've worked really hard on since January in order to identify those targets but a lot of decisions will depend on how we perform in the last seven games. It's going to be a very important end of season for us.' Martinez says he has 'got a bigger picture' of Everton's progress and does not rely on 10 months of results .

Darron Gibson has been ruled out for the rest of the season with injury . Gibson has a metatarsal problem but will be back for pre-season . Roberto Martinez wants to extend his contract despite repeated injuries . Everton will likely rekindle interest in Tom Cleverley in the summer .


It was not the role Bradley Neil would have wanted — the job of being the boy reminding Augusta just how brilliant Jordan Spieth’s opening had been. For while the 21-year-old American was chewing up golf’s most spectacular course, the teenager from Scotland was suffering the role in reverse. Neil earned his invitation to the Masters after winning the Scottish Boys Championship in 2013 and then the British Amateur Championship last year. Bradley Neil finished 13 over par after competing in his first Masters . Still an amateur, the 19-year-old is being tipped for huge things when he does turn pro by no less a star than world No 1 Rory McIlroy. And he had the calming influence of veteran fellow Scot Sandy Lyle playing alongside him as he stepped on to the first tee hoping to recover from a six-over-par round on day one. There was promise as he atoned for hoisting his drive into the trees alongside the fairway with a recovery shot that put him 30 feet from the hole. But three putts later on the first of Augusta’s lightning fast greens, memorably described by Peter Alliss as ‘like trying to roll a ball down the bonnet of a car and stopping it before it falls off’, reality was beginning to bite. The young Scot has been tipped for big things by the likes of Rory McIlroy . He did birdie the par-five second, but then came five more dropped shots to reach the turn in 41, and the youngster finished the day on 79, 13 over par in all and facing the truth that his big weekend was already over. ‘I’d prepared well for this, but it shows my game is not good enough yet,’ he admitted. ‘I need to work hard on it if I want to get back here. ‘I’m jealous that Sandy gets to come back here every year, and I also want to do that in the future.’ Lyle, who won the green jacket in 1988 as one of the two major wins of his career, is 57 and a student of traditional hickory clubs — he won the World Hickory Open at Carnoustie last year. He even used a putter from the bygone era as he made his 34th Masters appearance. But although he three-putted only once, he carded a 76 to end day two at six over par.

The 19-year-old is being tipped for huge things when he does turn pro . He finished 13-over par for the weekend but is determined to return . 'I'd prepared well for this, but it shows my game is not good enough yet,' he admitted . Neil qualified for the Masters by virtue of a win in the Scottish Boys Championship in 2013 and then the British Amateur Championship .


Danny Willett gave a rules official, who had been in his line-of-sight, a verbal blast which was clearly audible to spectators surrounding the 17th green at the Masters on Thursday. Englishman Willett vented his anger after his second shot from beyond the green trickled all the way across the putting surface and left the preacher's son facing a bogey or worse. 'Of anyone you should know the rules,' Willett shouted loudly at the official, who was sitting about 60 yards away in a golf cart, outside the gallery ropes. Danny Willett waits to play a shot on the fifth during the first round at 2015 Masters on Thursday . The 27-year-old Englishman carded a one-under 71 during his first ever round at Augusta . Willett was still visibly angry as he left the green after salvaging a bogey, though he had calmed down by time he spoke to reporters about 30 minutes later. He said his ire had been raised because the official had been in his line-of-sight as he was preparing to play his shot. 'We were being timed (for slow play), which I can appreciate,' Willett said after carding a one-under 71 at Augusta National. 'It's a little bit tricky out here, so it takes a little bit of time, but you'd like to think the referee that's timing you knows exactly where to put his buggy and where not to put his buggy.' Willett, 27, a two-time European Tour winner, is playing in his first Masters. Willett was left frustrated with a rules official for getting in his line-of-sight during his round .

Englishman Danny Willett blasts timing referee for getting in line-of-sight . Vented anger at official as he bogeyed the 17th at 2015 Masters . Willett carded a one-under 71 on opening round in first time at Augusta .


Bradley Neil admitted he needed to give himself a 'kick up the arse' after missing the cut on his Masters debut at Augusta National. The 19-year-old Scot carded rounds of 78 and 79 to finish 13 over par, although he did at least sign off in style with a birdie on the 18th. 'It was a great learning experience but very tough,' said the 2014 Amateur champion, who played with 1988 Masters winner Sandy Lyle. 'Every time you get to play with the world's best you'll take something away. This is where I want to be in a few years time. I just need to keep working harder. Amateur champion Bradley Neil missed the cut on his debut at the Masters . The Scot admitted he needed to 'give himself a kick up the a***' after struggling on the professional tour . 'I've prepared well for this but this shows it's not been enough. Sandy was great. Putting is one of the best parts of my game but I struggled with it and he pointed something out and I'll take that on board. 'I'm very jealous of him, he gets to come back (here) every year. That's something I want to do in the future. I think I'm good enough to get back here, I think I have the game to do that. I need to give myself a right kick up the arse after this. I'm desperate to come back.' Neil still harboured hopes of making the cut after his first round, but carded four bogeys, a double bogey and one birdie to cover the front nine in 41, before coming home in 38. 'You know how tough this place is before you get here but any expectations you have are blown out of the water,' he added. 'You don't realise how tough it is until you play it. You watch it so much on TV but you can't believe the difference. Neil was playing with fellow countryman and former Masters winner Sandy Lyle . 'It deserves all the respect it gets. It's the best in the world, the toughest in the world. It's been a game of two halves the last few days. It's been taking a step forward and then taking two back. I couldn't get one up on the course, it just kept coming back at me. 'I'm disappointed with the last two days, I've done worse here than I did at the Open (missing the cut on 11 over at Hoylake). 'I thought this would suit me better than the Open. My season has been disappointing so far but I'm playing against world-class fields and bigger, better courses than I was on the amateur circuit. I need to work my socks off. Last year I found it easy on the amateur scene.'

The 2014 Amateur champion was making his Masters debut at Augusta . Bradley Neil missed the cut after finishing 13 over par in second round . Scot admitted he has found it difficult competing on professional tour .


Forget fetching sticks. This musically-minded dog would rather be playing piano sonatas. Sadie the German Shepherd was filmed at home in Alberta, Canada, switching on an electric organ with her nose and sitting down to play some tunes. Footage shows her plonking her front paws down along the keyboard, as she sits with her back legs positioned on the piano stool. Instead of classical music, Sadie appears to recite a minimalist piece with clashing notes and no time signature. After a confident start, the pup takes a pause and looks towards the camera. 'Oh, did you make a mistake?' her owner says while filming. Signaling a brief moment of musical frustration, Sadie puts one paw to her head before returning to tickle the ivories. Musically minded: Sadie the German Shepherd was filmed at home in Alberta, Canada, switching on an electric keyboard with her nose and sitting down to play some tunes . Born to perform: Footage shows her plonking her front paws down on the keyboard, as she sits with her back legs on the piano stool . After a 20-second rendition, she decides she's had enough for one day and turns around to take a bow. To date, the video of Sadie playing the piano has been watched more than 12,000 times. Many viewers have given her paw-formance the thumbs up. 'Cute video, gorgeous and smart dog! ' one fan wrote. Sadie, aged six, was apparently adopted from an animal rescue shelter in 2009. Her owner adds: 'She loves learning new tricks and recently learned to play the piano.' Bravo: After a 20-second rendition, she decides she's had enough for one day and turns around to take a bow .

Sadie the German Shepherd was filmed at home in Alberta, Canada, switching on an electric keyboard with her nose and sitting down to play . Instead of classical music, the pooch appears to recite a minimalist piece with clashing notes and no time signature . After a 20-second rendition, she decides she's had enough for one day and turns around to take a bow .


Police have blasted motorists who played an impromptu game of football on the M25 after becoming stuck in a major traffic jam. Long tailbacks built up on both sides of the carriageway as a stretch of the motorway between junctions four and five in Ortford, Kent was closed so an air ambulance could land to rescue a seriously injured female motorcyclist. But during the hour-long delay today, Kent Police received reports that people started kicking a ball about in the closed stretch of the road. Motorists who were caught playing football on the M25 after becoming stuck in a major traffic jam on the motorway in Kent . They tweeted: 'We have reports people are playing football in the static traffic on the M25. 'This is dangerous. We ask that people remain in their vehicles.' Meanwhile at the same time two teenagers found themselves stranded on the wrong side of the motorway when the clockwise carriageway reopened. Police said that the pair had walked to the opposite side after the road was closed and had to be escorted back to their vehicle by police after it reopened catching them unaware. A Kent Police spokesman said: 'The pair had reportedly walked across the motorway whilst the road was closed, but then were unable to get back when the road was re-opened. 'A patrol helped them return to their vehicle. 'Police are now appealing for information following a serious road traffic collision on the M25 between junctions 4 and 5. 'The anti-clockwise carriageway is still currently down to one lane and motorists are advised to avoid the area. Kent Police tweeted warning motorists to remain inside their vehicles while they were stuck in the gridlock . 'Police are also keen to remind people to stay in their vehicles if they are stuck in stationary traffic.' The accident at lunchtime today followed another serious incident in Kent when a coach caught fire on an A2 slip road to the M25 near Dartford. The blaze sent plumes of black smoke across the carriageway with footage taken by motorists showing the wreckage of the vehicle. The fire completely destroyed the coach and is believed to have started in the engine compartment and spread to the body of the vehicle.

Kent Police received reports of a kick-about on a closed stretch of the M25 . Came after an air ambulance was called to rescue an injured motorcyclist . Two teens were also rescued after becoming stranded on opposite carriage . Happened when the pair wandered on to the clockwise carriageway as it reopened .


Rory McIlroy has plenty of work to do in his pursuit of the legendary green jacket but he will have to remain patient in his bid to complete a career grand slam at Augusta. The world No 1 recovered from a shaky start to card a one-under-par 71 but finished seven shots behind first-round leader Jordan Spieth. McIlroy must hope for the early runners to drop shots as he's scheduled to go out in the penultimate group with Phil Mickelson and Ryan Moore at 6.48pm (BST) on Friday. Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson, right, go out in the penultimate group on Friday . Round 2 . Group 1, 12:45pm: Ian Woosnam, Erik Compton . Group 2, 12:56pm: Trevor Immelman, Kevin Stadler, Scott Harvey . Group 3, 1:07pm: Ben Martin, Robert Streb, Cameron Tringale . Group 4, 1:18pm: Sandy Lyle, Seung-yul Noh, Bradley Neil . Group 5, 1:29pm: Bernhard Langer, Bernd Wiesberger, Geoff Ogilvy . Group 6, 1:40pm: Zach Johnson, Jim Furyk, Ernie Els . Group 7, 1:51pm: Angel Cabrera, Louis Oosthuizen, Matias Dominguez . Group 8, 2:02pm: Mark O'Meara, Chris Kirk, Shane Lowry . Group 9, 2:13pm: Padraig Harrington, Ryan Palmer, Thomas Bjorn . Group 10, 2:24pm: James Hahn, Mikko Ilonen, Hunter Mahan . Group 11, 2:35pm: Matt Kuchar, Brooks Koepka, Graeme McDowell . Group 12, 2:57pm: Jordan Spieth, Henrik Stenson, Billy Horschel . Group 13, 3:08pm: Fred Couples, Branden Grace, Thongchai Jaidee . Group 14, 3:19pm: Luke Donald, Victor Dubuisson, John Senden . Group 15, 3:30pm: Tiger Woods, Jamie Donaldson, Jimmy Walker . Group 16, 3:41pm: Jason Day, Sergio Garcia, Rickie Fowler . Group 17, 3:52pm: Charley Hoffman and Brian Harman . Group 18, 4:03pm: Larry Mize, Danny Willett, Byron Meth . Group 19, 4:14pm: Tom Watson, Gary Woodland, Camilo Villegas . Group 20, 4:25pm:  Mike Weir, Ben Crane, Corey Conners . Group 21, 4:36pm: Vijay Singh, Russell Henley, Darren Clarke . Group 22, 4:47pm: Jose Maria Olazabal, Brendon Todd, Kevin Na . Group 23, 5:09pm: Jonas Blixt, Kevin Streelman, Stephen Gallacher . Group 24, 5:20pm: Patrick Reed, Keegan Bradley, Ian Poulter . Group 25, 5:31pm: Miguel Angel Jimenez, Lee Westwood, Anirban Lahiri . Group 26, 5:42pm: Bubba Watson, Justin Rose, Gunn Yang . Group 27, 5:53pm: Adam Scott, Dustin Johnson, Antonio Murdaca . Group 28, 6:04pm: Morgan Hoffmann, Steve Stricker, Matt Every . Group 29, 6:15pm: Ben Crenshaw, Bill Haas, Jason Dufner . Group 30, 6:26pm: Webb Simpson, Hideki Matsuyama, Paul Casey . Group 31, 6:37pm: Charl Schwartzel, Joost Luiten, Sangmoon Bae . Group 32, 6:48pm: Phil Mickelson, Rory McIlroy, Ryan Moore . Group 33, 6:59pm: J. B. Holmes, Martin Kaymer, Brandt Snedeker . Leader Jordan Spieth carded a superb 64 in the first round at the Augusta .

Masters 2015 starts on day two with Ian Woosman and Erik Compton . Former golf world No 1 Tiger Woods is set to feature at 3.30pm . Rory McIlroy will start near the end of day two in Group 32 at 6.48pm . CLICK HERE to follow the Masters 2015 day two action LIVE .


Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff sees no reason to go cap in hand to the powers that be within the German giant and demand extra revenue to fight off the new threat of Ferrari. From out of the blue, it was the scarlet red of Ferrari that was back on the top step of the podium for the first time in almost two years last time out in Malaysia, pushing reigning champion Lewis Hamilton and team-mate Nico Rosberg down to second and third. From the threat of another Silver Arrows-dominated campaign in the wake of last year's stunning success and crushing start to the season in Australia, Formula One was provided with a much-needed tonic with Ferrari's return to winning ways courtesy of Sebastian Vettel. Sebastian Vettel saw off the challenge from Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg in Malaysia . Vettel (right) won the second race of the season following Mercedes' dominance last year . That led to speculation Wolff was prepared to ask for more funds from the Mercedes board to ensure his team stayed ahead of the pack. But a dismissive Wolff said: 'We have everything we need. 'We feel confident in the resources we have, the staff we have, and that we are well-placed. 'We just need to stay calm, continue to develop and put the right things on the car. 'Maybe we put some things earlier on the car than planned, but there is no reason to panic. 'We are back into a regular racing season where you have more than just one contender, and more than one-twos every single weekend. It's back to normal business.' Mercedes chief Toto Wolff claims the champions will just keep calm and carry on . Mercedes will look into reasons why the team was beaten into second and third in Malaysia . Wolff insists his team has left no stone unturned since the race in Malaysia in a bid to uncover what went wrong, even though most teams would jump through hoops for a two-three finish. 'Although we had two cars on the podium, we have been looking very carefully at every area where we could have performed better,' said Wolff. 'Our opposition has raised its game and we must now raise ours even further. 'As we have said since Melbourne, we expect a season-long battle for both world championships and we must maximise every opportunity. Rosberg (left) and Hamilton visited Mercedes' Brackley base to go through their cars on Thursday . 'China is the next chance to do that - a circuit which has been a good hunting ground for the team. 'Lewis has a great record here, and for Nico it's where he made his first step into the winners' circle. 'We have the weapons at our disposal and we need to make the most of them this weekend.' Hamilton is a three-time winner at the Shanghai International Circuit - including last year - whilst he has been on the podium on three other occasions. Rosberg, meanwhile, was second to Hamilton last year after triumphing in 2012. Like Wolff, Hamilton knows more can and will be done, as he said: 'Malaysia was a tough weekend. Hamilton heads to Shanghai having won the Chinese Grand Prix last year on his way to the title . 'It always is with the heat, but with car problems on Friday, rain during qualifying on Saturday and a race which didn't go to plan on Sunday, that one was particularly challenging. 'Ultimately we made the best choices we could, but there is always room for improvement and we've been working hard to analyse everything for the next race in China. 'The circuit is one I really enjoy and it suits my driving style quite well. 'I won the race last year and have only finished outside of the podium places twice, so the target is definitely to build on that and get back to the front.' The British driver is congratulated by film star Arnold Schwarzenegger after winning the Australian Grand Prix . From his perspective, Rosberg is far from happy with his two races to date which have seen him finish second and third. 'It's not been a perfect start to my sixth year with the team and I'm determined to turn that around this weekend,' insisted Rosberg. 'Of course, my team-mate will have other ideas, so will my compatriot in the red car (Vettel) I'm sure. 'But this is a track that has always suited me well, so I'm aiming to put in a strong weekend.'

Sebastian Vettel gave Ferrari victory at the Malaysian Grand Prix . Mercedes will remain calm and not panic, says chief Toto Wolff . Lewis Hamilton heads to Chinese Grand Prix as reigning champion .


What better way to kick off the week you get married than by settling a pressing matter at work before you relax and prepare for the big day? That is how Andy Murray may be feeling  as he looks to face Novak Djokovic in the final of the Miami Open. The British No1 marries Kim Sears in Dunblane on Saturday and, win or lose on Sunday, he will be heading straight to the airport to get back and focus on what lies ahead next weekend. Andy Murray reacts as he reaches the Miami Open final with a win over Tomas Berdych in the last four . He will face long-time rival Novak Djokovic in the final in Miami on Sunday . Murray's fiancee Kim Sears watches on in the heat in Miami during his semi-final . He would dearly love to do so with the trophy in his luggage. For one, it would represent his biggest tournament win since taking the Wimbledon title in 2013, irrefutable proof that he is back towards his best. Perhaps even more importantly it would end the growing dominance of Djokovic over the Scot — and everyone else for that matter. Murray will need no reminding that he has lost nine out of his last 10 matches against the Serb, so it is a huge task. Even more remarkably, Djokovic has won his past nine finals at these Masters-level events, which are one tier down from the Grand Slams. Murray allowed himself to get befuddled by the world No1’s histrionics in the Australian Open final, and then played a plain bad match when thrashed by him in their Indian Wells semi-final last month. The 27-year-old was in clinical form as he set up a final showdown with Novak Djokovic . Murray reacts after winning the final point before shaking hands with Berdych as he heads into the final . ‘I learned more in the Indian Wells match from what I didn’t do,’ said Murray. ‘The final in Australia didn’t necessarily feel like it came down to the tennis or the tactics, but in Indian Wells there were a few things I did wrong.’ Top of that list was to lapse into his tendency to feel his way into the match, rather than come out firing on all cylinders. If Murray does that again he will lose, but he plays well here and is hugely familiar with the heavier conditions, so this should be closer. He has also played all his matches during the day, which will help with the lunchtime start (6pm UK). His opponent, however, looked incredibly sharp in defusing John Isner’s big serve in the semi-final and Djokovic knows recent history is on his side. Murray is set to marry his fiancee in Dunblane next Saturday . ‘It can only serve as a positive, going in with the fact I won the last six matches we played against each other, especially the most recent one,’ said Djokovic. ‘It gives me confidence and maybe a slight mental advantage. But we are talking about small margins, that’s always the case when we play each other.’ One thing for sure is that the next big tournament when they face off, two players who have been rivals since before their teenage years will both be married men.

Andy Murray faces Novak Djokovic in Miami Open final on Sunday . Set to marry fiancee Kim Sears in Dunblane next Saturday . British No 1 has lost nine of his last 10 meetings with Djokovic .


Glasgow Warriors have been placed on high alert after it was revealed Richie Gray will be sold to the highest bidder if Castres are relegated from the Top 14. Gray has one year left on his contract but will be released should the club go down, with fellow Scotland internationals Johnnie Beattie and Max Evans also expected to leave. The 45-times capped second row was ruled out for the rest of the season in February after suffering an upper-arm injury in the Six Nations defeat by Wales. His club have been on a dismal run of form and are second bottom with just 38 points after 21 games. Glasgow Warriors have been placed on high alert after it was revealed Richie Gray could be sold . Finding the money to bring Gray back to Glasgow, where he started his career before moving to Sale Sharks and then Castres, would be a huge statement of intent by the SRU. However, over and above funding the club to the tune of over £4.2million a year, they do release money in exceptional circumstances to sign marquee players - the signing of Sean Maitland being the most recent example. The SRU would face stiff competition for Gray, with Bordeaux Begles, Racing Metro and Toulon all monitoring the situation, while Aviva Premiership clubs would also be interested. Gray has one year left on his contract but will be released should Castres Olympique go down .

Richie Gray will be sold if Castres Olympique are relegated from the Top 14 . It has put Glasgow Warriors on high alert surrounding Gray's future . Gray has one year left on his Castres deal but could soon be released .


Tom Croft has received a huge lift at the start of his latest long journey back to fitness by securing a new deal at Leicester. The club future of the England and Lions flanker appeared to be in doubt last month when his cruel injury jinx struck again. Croft suffered a dislocated shoulder in the Tigers’ victory over Newcastle and, after surgery, he was left facing six months of rehabilitation. In 2012, the 29-year-old suffered a broken neck and he missed most of last season with a knee injury while this latest setback has almost certainly ruled him out of the World Cup. Tom Croft has signed a new deal with Leicester which keeps him with the Tigers despite his injury troubles . Despite Croft’s lack of action in recent years director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: ‘I have agreed a contract with him. Tom has had some poor luck injury-wise. We all know when Tom’s fit he is world-class. ‘He is still relatively young. He has been very loyal to the club over a long period and we have supported him hugely. It’s the right thing to do. I think he will come back and we will be talking about Tom Croft playing how Tom Croft can play.’

His cruel injury jinx struck again as the England and Lions flanker dislocated his shoulder against Newcastle . The injury will almost certainly rule him out of the World Cup . In 2012, the 29-year-old suffered a broken neck and he missed most of last season with a knee injury .


Derbyshire wicketkeeper Tom Poynton has been rewarded for his successful return from injury by signing a new one-year contract extension. Poynton, 25, missed the entire 2014 campaign due to leg injuries sustained in a road accident in which his father Keith died last April. The former England Under-19 international had to undergo an ankle operation but he made his playing comeback during Derbyshire's pre-season tour of Abu Dhabi. Derbyshire wicketkeeper Tom Poynton has been rewarded for his successful return from injury . He will be available for the start of the season and has now committed himself to the county until the end of the 2016 season. Derbyshire's elite performance director, Graeme Welch, said: 'Tom has displayed exceptional character since the tragic events that ended his season last April. 'He has worked tirelessly both in training and in his off-the-field role to prepare him for his return and everyone at the club is delighted to see him back on the field playing for Derbyshire. 'We hope the new contract will now give him the confidence to go out and express himself this summer. 'He has shown good form since his return to training and in Abu Dhabi and we hope this continues.'

Tom Poynton missed the entire 2014 campaign due to leg injuries . He made his playing comeback during Derbyshire's pre-season tour .


Rangers have promised to probe claims Mike Ashley has grabbed control of the club's badges. Reports emerged on social media on Thursday afternoon suggesting the Newcastle United owner was now the official owner of the Light Blues trademarks - including the 'Ready' badge and mascot Broxi Bear. The Sports Direct tycoon had been given security over the icons and logos as part of the £5million loan handed to the previous Gers board in January. Rangers have promised to probe claims Mike Ashley has grabbed control of the club's badges . Reports emerged  suggesting the Newcastle  owner was now the official owner of the Light Blues trademarks . But now Dave King's new regime have promised a speedy investigation after documents appeared on the government-run Intellectual Property Office (IPO) website showing the club's trademarks were now controlled by SportsDirect.com Retail Ltd. In a statement a club spokesman said: 'The board is currently conducting a review of all contractual documentation but this particular issue has become a matter of urgency.' News that Ashley has seized hold of more treasured assets will worry the Ibrox faithful. The Londoner is already vastly unpopular after grabbing hold of a 75 per cent share of the club's retail income with his loan deal. Dave King's new regime have promised a speedy investigation into the claims surrounding Ashley . The IPO site confirm the transfer from Rangers Football Club Ltd to Sports Direct was fully assigned on March 25 - less than three weeks after former chief executive and Ashley ally Derek Llambias and finance director Barry Leach, a former Sports Direct executive, were removed at a general meeting called by King. Yet Interim chairman Paul Murray announced two days later that the new board had held 'no discussions with Mike Ashley or Sports Direct'. Rangers announced last week that if they gain promotion to the Premiership, they will have to pay Newcastle £500,000 as part of the deal which saw five Magpies youngsters move to Ibrox on loan. Ashley was given security over the icons and logos as part of the £5m loan handed to the previous board .

Reports emerged on social media  suggesting Mike Ashley was now the official owner of the Light Blues trademarks . Rangers have promised to investigate the claims . Ashley was given security over the icons and logos as part of the £5m loan .


Ferrari technical director James Allison believes Mercedes are again likely to lead the way in China this weekend. Fears of another season of domination from Mercedes were blown away by a shock, yet deserved victory for Sebastian Vettel last time out in Malaysia. It was the Maranello marque's first success for almost two years and at least offered hope to neutrals that reigning champion Lewis Hamilton and team-mate Nico Rosberg will not have it all their own way. Sebastian Vettel won the second race of the season with victory in Malaysia last month . Vettel saw off the challenge from Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg in Malaysia . In searing heat and high track temperatures the Ferraris of Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen were far kinder on their tyres, stopping only twice compared to the three trips to the pits for Hamilton and Rosberg. This weekend's race at the Shanghai International Circuit, however, should favour Mercedes given the cooler climes than that of Sepang. Allison is certainly not expecting back-to-back Ferrari wins and said: 'Our car has a pretty decent cooling package. 'That allowed us to operate in the fierce temperatures like we experienced in Malaysia without having to open up the car. 'The track was also rough and hot, which is hard for tyres, and we're fortunate the car goes well on its tyres. Hamilton celebrates his win in Australia . 'Quite what problems were going on in Merc-land I don't know. 'But I'm fairly sure we will have our work cut out in China to do as impressive a job as we did in Malaysia.' As to whether Ferrari can stay the course with Mercedes and provide a season-long challenge, for now that is too difficult to determine. 'I don't know about that. I'll tell you at the end of the season,' remarked Allison with a smile. 'In Melbourne (the season-opening Australian Grand Prix) Mercedes were very, very dominant, and we were better than we looked. 'Even in free air we wouldn't have held a candle to them there. 'There is a lot of work for us to do before we can head into every race weekend confident we can hunt for the victory from the first session of that weekend. 'But we do have a fairly exciting development plan, and we've a lot of performance to bring. 'It should at least be an interesting season to see if we can close that gap so we are genuine contenders at any weekend.' Crucially, and what may yet be a determining factor, Allison added: 'Normally over the course of a season being kind to your tyres is the best thing you can be.'

Ferrari won the second grand prix of the season in Malaysia . Sebastian Vettel's victory was a shock given Mercedes' strong start . But Ferrari's technical director believes Mercedes will be strong in China . The cooler climate should suit Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg . CLICK HERE for the latest F1 news ahead of the 2015 Chinese Grand Prix .


It's a sight Manchester United fans have been accustomed to for years but after a 16-month wait 'normality' for those on the red half of the city has only just been restored. For the first time since November 23, 2013 United sit above 'noisy neighbours' Manchester City in the Premier League after having played the same number of games. Following City's 2-1 defeat at Crystal Palace on Monday night they now trail Louis van Gaal's side by a point ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby at Old Trafford. Manchester United sit above Manchester City in the Premier League table for the first time in 16 months after having played the same amount of matches - following the latest round of results . City players look crestfallen during their 2-1 defeat at Crystal Palace on Monday night . Jason Puncheon curls his free kick over the City wall and into the far corner to put Palace 2-0 ahead . City star striker Sergio Aguero's (left) recent toils in front of goal continued at Selhurst Park on Monday night . Wayne Rooney (centre) scored a stunning half-volley as  United beat Aston Villa 3-1 on Saturday . City now trail United by a point, following Monday's defeat at Palace, with seven league games remaining . The last time this had happened United sat sixth on 20 points, one ahead of then ninth-placed City after 11 games during the 2013-14 campaign. This had occurred following City's 1-0 defeat at Sunderland on November 10, 2013 while a Robin van Persie header gave the Red Devils victory over Arsenal by the same scoreline going into the international break. However, the intervening 499-day period had been one dominated by Manuel Pellegrini's side as they won the league title and the Capital One Cup last season. In comparison, United slumped to seventh in the table - their lowest-ever finish in the Premier League era - with former manager David Moyes sacked as a consequence for their woeful results. United were last above City in the league after an equal amount of games  on November 23, 2013 . This occurred after City's defeat at Sunderland, Robin van Persie's header gave United a 1-0 win vs Arsenal . United's fall from grace was in stark contrast to the 2012-13 term - when they won the title in Sir Alex Ferguson's last as  Old Trafford boss. Yet post-Ferguson United had only managed to sit above City in the league twice after the same amount of games prior to Monday. Aside from November 23, 2013 the on other occasion occurred on August 26, 2013. Back then this was after the second game of last season as City's 3-2 defeat at Cardiff allowed United to move a point ahead of them following their 0-0 draw against Chelsea. With the Red Devils looking down on their bitter rivals once more, they'll look to extend their one point gap to four  with victory in the derby on Sunday. United have only sat above City twice  - in the post Sir Alex Ferguson era - having played the same games . The first time came in August 2013 when City lost 3-2 at Cardiff thanks to Frazier Campbell's (left) winner . United then moved a point clear of City the next day following a 0-0 draw at home to Chelsea .

Manchester United beat Aston Villa 3-1 in the Premier League on Saturday . Manchester City lost 2-1 at Crystal Palace on Monday night . Result means United sit one point ahead of City with seven games left . Two sides meet in the Manchester derby at Old Trafford on Sunday . CLICK HERE for all the latest Manchester United news .


Cristiano Ronaldo will start for Real Madrid against Eibar on Saturday after his yellow card for diving in Wednesday's 2-0 win over Rayo Vallecano was rescinded. The Portuguese was booked after being brought down by Rayo defender Antonio Amaya inside the box, incurring a one-game suspension in the process. But Ronaldo is now free to start at the Bernabeu after La Liga's appeals committee decided that he had been unfairly punished at the Estadio de Vallecas. Cristiano Ronaldo appeared to be unfairly cautioned after he was chopped down by Antonio Amaya . The Real Madrid star was set to miss Saturday's game with Eibar but his yellow card has now been rescinded . Ronaldo was furious after being booked during Real Madrid's 2-0 win against Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday . Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez will miss Saturday's game after picking up bookings against Rayo but Real immediately decided to appeal the yellow card for their star forward. Speaking after the game, Carlo Ancelotti said: 'I told the referee that everyone saw it was a penalty. 'I told him it was incredible that he didn't award a penalty and that he showed Cristiano the yellow card. We will appeal.' That appeal has now been successful and Ronaldo - who netted his 300th goal for the club in Wednesday's win - will be part of Los Blancos' starting XI against Eibar. Real currently sit second in the table but they will be looking to close the gap on leaders Barcelona, who face a tough trip to fifth-placed Sevilla on Saturday evening. Ronaldo celebrates a friend's birthday on Thursday night along with Real Madrid team-mate Pepe (right) Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti will be able to call on Ronaldo against Eibar on Saturday .

Real Madrid beat Rayo Vallecano 2-0 in La Liga on Wednesday night . Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 300th goal for the Spanish giants . Ronaldo was also booked for diving in the area but it appeared unfair . He incurred a one-game suspension but that has now been overturned . CLICK HERE for all the latest Real Madrid news .


Sergio Aguero says the experience of scoring in a Manchester derby is unparalleled. The Argentine has scored six goals in derby meetings with United and is planning on adding to that tally when the two sides meet at Old Trafford on Sunday. 'I always love to score, but of course it is even more special to score in the big games,' he said. Sergio Aguero smashes the ball against the post during Manchester City's defeat by Crystal Palace . Aguero says scoring against Manchester United is enough to give him shivers . The Argentine forward has scored six times against United, including this one at the Etihad in September 2013 . 'If you score against United at Old Trafford it almost give you shivers, because you can feel the tense atmosphere with most of the stadium being really quiet, but the away end going crazy. 'At home it is different, when the City supporters are really loud in these games, it sometimes gives me goose bumps when they sing my name.' The Argentine forward has hailed fellow South American Radamel Falcao ahead of the derby. 'They (Manchester United) have a number of very talented strikers. The one who in his career has been the most predatory is Falcao. 'He isn't having an easy time this season, but I really admire his commitment and his class and qualities are permanent. Aguero believes United striker Radamel Falcao (right) is one of the most gifted players in world football . Aguero came face-to-face with Falcao at Puma event on Thursday . 'He is probably one of the most naturally gifted strikers in football at the moment.' Meanwhile, Aguero is refusing to give up hope of retaining the Premier League crown this season despite slipping to fourth, nine points behind leaders Chelsea. 'Of course we can still win the title,' he insisted. 'In football, anything can happen - as soon as you think something is certain, then everything changes, we have seen it so many times before and we'll see it again. 'We only focus on ourselves, try to win every game we play and keep pressure on Chelsea.' Aguero was speaking at the #HeadtoHead event for Puma's 'evoSPEED 1.3' where he appeared alongside United's Radamel Falcao.

Manchester City play Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday . Sergio Aguero says scoring in the derby is enough to give you shivers . The Argentine has scored six goals against Man United since joining City . Aguero described Man Utd striker Radamel Falcao as one of the most naturally gifted players in world football . Aguero is refusing to give up hope of retaining the Premier League .