Finland announced its selection camp roster for the 2014 World Junior Hockey Championship on Monday. Matt Murray Jersey . Headlining the 27 players were first-round NHL draftees Rasmus Ristolainen and Teuvo Teravainen. Both players are returnees from the 2013 Finnish World Junior team. Joining those two are Montreal Canadiens pick Artturi Lehkonen as well as Kasperi Kapanen, a 2014 draft prospect and son of former NHL player Sami Kapanen. Finland will be without two of its marquee players as Florida Panthers 2013 second-overall pick Aleksander Barkov and Pittsburgh Penguins defenceman Olli Maatta were not made available for the tournament. The Finnish team finished a disappointing seventh at the 2013 tournament, being edged out of the medal round in Group A by third-place Switzerland. See the related links for the full selection camp rosters for all 10 competing nations at the 2014 World Junior Championship. Jack Johnson Jersey . After all, the No. 8 seed is chasing far loftier goals. Raonic, from Thornhill, Ont., defeated American Jack Sock 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in Wimbledons second round on Thursday. Larry Murphy Jersey . Johnny Manziel, college footballs most entertaining player with the reputation for pulling off magical plays, was selected with the No. http://www.penguinsauthenticofficial.com/paul-coffey-jersey/ .B. -- Canadian pairs skaters Meagan Duhamel and Eric Radford went from elated to frustrated in the span of a few minutes.TORONTO -- In search of depth up front, Toronto FC acquired English striker Luke Moore from the Colorado Rapids on Thursday in exchange for defender Gale Agbossoumonde. With Englands Jermain Defoe possibly headed to the World Cup and reserve forward Bright Dike a long-term casualty due to an Achilles injury, Toronto needed help for Brazils Gilberto with Mondays MLS transfer deadline looming. Toronto also has forwards Andrew Wiedeman and teenager Jordan Hamilton, currently on loan to the Wilmington Hammerheads. Attacking midfielders Dwayne De Rosario, Issey Nakajima-Farran and Brazils Jackson are also an attacking option. Toronto (3-4-0) has just seven goals in seven games, with Defoe accounting for three of them. Thats tied with Los Angeles and Montreal as the lowest scoring output in the league. Agbossoumonde, 22, had fallen down the defensive pecking order with Steven Caldwell, Doneil Henry, Bradley Orr and rookie Nick Hagglund preferred ahead of him. "With our current depth in defence we felt that the opportunity to acquire an attacking player like Luke Moore was the right deccision to make at this time for the club as we approach the World Cup break," Toronto FC general manager Tim Bezbatchenko said in a statement. Dominik Simon Jersey. "With Lukes experience, he will be a welcomed addition to our squad and provide more options for us up front. Wed like to thank Gale for all of his contributions both on and off the pitch and wish him well in Colorado." Moore was acquired earlier this season by Colorado from Chivas USA. The 28-year-old made six appearances, with two starts and no goals, for Chivas. He arrived in the MLS during the off-season from Turkeys Sanica Boru Elazigspor. Moore began his career in England with Aston Villa in 2003, and later was part of Swanseas rise to the Premier League in 2011. Agbossoumonde, 22, was originally acquired on Dec. 20, 2012 through a weighted lottery at MLS headquarters. In two seasons, the American defender made 13 appearances, including 12 starts. Paul Bravo, Colorados vice-president of soccer operations, called Agbossoumonde "a talented young player who can add depth to our backline." ' ' '

DENVER -- Matt Duchene was simply going for a cross-ice pass. Akiem Hicks Womens Jersey . A fortunate bounce turned it into the winning goal. The Colorado forward didnt know it until the roar of the crowd clued him in. Duchene scored 2:33 into overtime, and Semyon Varlamov stopped 33 shots to lift the Avalanche to a 3-2 win over the Winnipeg Jets on Monday night. "Were all pretty exhausted," Duchene said. "I felt like I was back in high school playing hockey, but those games are fun to win." Duchene got free after a nifty move in the corner and saw Ryan OReilly on the far side. Duchene tried to thread a pass to him, only to have it hit the stick of Jets defenceman Tobias Enstrom and bounce in the air. The puck hit Duchene in the leg, dropped down to his stick. From there he lifted it over backup goalie Al Montoya. "I didnt even know it went in," said Duchene, who has a point in a career-high eight straight games. "I just heard the crowd cheering, and I figured it went past him. It was a good bounce, nice to get that one." Montoya was almost as surprised. "I dont even remember it. I really dont, sorry about that," he said. "I know the puck bounced in front of me, was poked in front of me, and it landed right on the guys tape." Enstrom made quite a save to make sure the game reached overtime. Late in the third period, Enstrom dove after a puck that was rolling toward the net. He swatted it away just before it crossed the line. Jets coach Paul Maurice didnt fault Enstroms attempted clear. "Just a little bad luck in front of the net," Maurice said. "Bobbled the puck and its in the back." John Mitchell, Andre Benoit and Duchene provided an offensive spark on a night the Avs lost another forward when P.A. Parenteau hurt his right knee early in the game. They were already without Paul Stastny, who was sidelined because of a sore back. Avs coach Patrick Roy said Parenteau could miss significant time with an MCL injury. "I think hes going to miss the remainder of the regular season, and well see for the playoffs," Roy said. "(Tuesday), well know more. Im just guessing right now." Winnipeg had a 2-on-1 opportunity in overtime, but Varlamov deflected Olli Jokinens shot into the netting behind the goal. Colorado scored 4:38 into the second period on a goal originally credited to rookie Nathan MacKinnon, when it looked as though he tapped in a pass from Mitchell. But the goal was later awarded to Mitchell after the puck appeared to hit off the stick of Jets defenceman Zach Bogosian. The lead didnt last long as Byfuglien scored twice in a span of 1:48. He tapped his first goal past Varlamov on a power play. Later, Byfuglien bounced a puck off Varlamovs left skate from near the boards behind the net. Benoit tied it with 12 seconds remaining in the second on a slap shot from near the blue line. It was a frenetic first period that featured no scoring but plenty of big hits and a penalty shot by Jim Slater after Marc-Andre Cliche hooked him from behind. Slater couldnt capitalize, though, lining his shot into Varlamovs glove. Varlamov later turned back Evander Kane on another breakaway attempt. The Jets were flummoxed by Varlamov all period, even running into the Colorado goalie twice and drawing penalties. The Avs were on the power play four times in the first period, but couldnt sneak anything past Montoya, who gave Ondrej Pavelec the night off. Colorado lost Parenteau in a collision near the blue line with Mark Stuart less than four minutes into the game. After a quick rest, Parenteau momentarily returned to the ice to test out the knee before heading into the dressing room. "He was in pain, but you know P.A.," Roy said. "Hes a great team guy, and he wanted give it a try." NOTES: Jets F John Albert left in the second period because of an upper body injury and didnt return. ... F Bryan Little recorded two assists, giving him 52 points for the season, which is a career high. ... Varlamov earned his 32nd win of the season. Walter Payton Jersey . Sizemore, who turned 29 on Jan. 4, has been limited to six games over the past two seasons because of an injured left knee that twice required surgery. He originally got hurt on Feb. 25, 2012, during a fielding drill in Oaklands first full-squad spring training workout and had surgery that March 21 to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Anthony Miller Jersey . David Perron had a career high four-point night with two goals and two assists as the Oilers experienced an offensive explosion, blasting the Columbus Blue Jackets 7-0 to record a rare home win for their second victory in a row. http://www.chicagobearfootballauthentic.com/authentic-william-perry-bears-jersey/ . -- Chris Jones and Louisville have done a tremendous job protecting the basketball this season and thats led to easy victories.Toronto Maple Leafs centre Dave Bolland took strides toward his return to the lineup on Wednesday. A video on the Leafs team website showed Bolland skating in full pads and taking part in individual drills. He practiced one-timers and puck control drills. The Leafs forwaard suffered a severed tendon in his left ankle while playing against the Vancouver Canucks in early November. Roquan Smith Youth Jersey. An unrestricted free-agent at the end of the season, Bolland scored six goals and notched four assists in 15 games with the Leafs this season. ' ' '

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. Charles Haley Womens Jersey . -- Vicente Sanchez is quickly making a good impression with his new club. Sanchez scored a goal and knocked another in off an opposing player and the Colorado Rapids rallied for a 2-1 win over FC Dallas on a rainy Saturday night. David Ferreira scored for Dallas (10-8-10), which was dealt a blow in its late-season playoff push by an unfortunate bounce. Sanchez was playing just his fifth game with the Rapids, where he joined the team after playing in his homeland, Uruguay. He had two assists before Saturday and finally got his first goal with the Rapids. "Thats why Vicentes here and the fans are getting in love with him," Colorado coach Oscar Pareja said. Dallas, which went nearly three months without a victory before beating Chivas USA on Aug. 21, came into the game 2-0-1 in its last three to pull within two points of the Rapids for the final post-season spot. However, Colorado (12-8-9) made sure Dallas stayed outside the playoff picture by taking advantage of a miscue. With the score tied at 1-all, Sanchez sent a ball to the front of the net when Dallas defender Matt Hedges tried to make a sliding deflection. Instead, he knocked it into his own net to give Colorado the lead in the 65th minute. Ten minutes earlier, FC Dallas appeared to be in control. After fending off chances most of the game, Dallas capitalized on one of its few opportunities. Jair Benitez sent a low pass to the front of the goal from the left side. Ferreira raced through the defence and redirected the ball into an open net while sliding on the grass in the 51st. It was just the fourth shot of the game for FC Dallas. "We played some good soccer despite being a tough place to play," midfielder Je-Vaughn Watson said. "We got a beautiful goal from David, we had good chances to score again but we didnt capitalize." The Rapids tied it in the 58th as Watson tried to head Christopher Klutes chip-in out of danger, but the ball went to Sanchez, who blasted a shot past goalie Raul Fernandez. "I was able to score the goal, and it was good because we got the three points," Sanchez said through a translator. "If you score and the team doesnt win it doesnt mean anything." After the Rapids went ahead, Dallas had a few chances to tie it but goalie Clint Irwin preserved the lead. His biggest save came on Benitezs free kick during injury time. "After they went up 2-1 we were all over them. Unfortunately we didnt get the equalizer," Watson said. "We have six games remaining, were playing good soccer, we just have to keep on digging." The start of the game was delayed 54 minutes by lightning in the area. Rain, which has hammered the state since Tuesday and caused severe flooding in many areas, stopped before kickoff. The game was scoreless at half despite Colorados numerous chances in the first 45 minutes. The Rapids had near-misses in the first 10 minutes, and in the 26th Sanchez set up teammate Atiba Harris with a great opportunity. Sanchez saved the ball from going out in the corner, then lofted a pass to the front of the net but Harris header went off the turf and over the crossbar. Later, Edson Buddle was free just inside the penalty box but his blistering shot went wide left. "The first half we played very well, we spread the ball the way we wanted and had control of the game," Pareja said. "We had good chances." FC Dallas had few chances but nearly scored in the final minutes of the half when they got behind the defence. Irwin was able to scoop up the ball before Dallas could get a shot off. Terrell Owens Cowboys Jersey . - The Denver Broncos kept rookie wide receiver Tavarres King from joining the Green Bay Packers by promoting him to their active roster Tuesday. Michael Irvin Jersey . -- Max Gilbert captured his first pro victory at the Tour Championship of Canada. http://www.cowboysrookieproshop.com/Cowboys-Demarcus-Ware-Jersey/ . Anaheim Ducks Reassign D Colby Robak to Norfolk Admirals (AHL). - Team Website D Eric Brewer (foot) removed from injured reserve. With an influx of depth forwards, the competition up front for a spot on the Maple Leafs bottom six promises to be one of the top stories heading into camp. In the this weeks Leaf Report podcast, Jonas Siegel and James Mirtle break ddown where the likes of Leo Komarov and David Booth will fit in, and whether William Nylander has a chance to secure a role as an 18-year-old. Bill Bates Youth Jersey. Leaf Report podcast: Stiff competition up front ' ' '

PHILADELPHIA -- Sergei Bobrovsky stuck it to his former team, then gave his stick a few extra shakes in celebration toward the jeering crowd. Fred Biletnikoff Jersey . Back on familiar ice, Bobrovsky made himself quite at home. Bobrovsky stopped 37 shots for his fourth shutout of the season, leading the Columbus Blue Jackets to their first win in Philadelphia, 2-0 over the Flyers on Thursday night. "Its something special," Bobrovsky said. "Its tough to explain." James Wisniewski and Brandon Dubinsky each scored goals for the Blue Jackets, who were 0-5-1 in Philadelphia since the franchises inception in 2000. Led by Bobrovsky, a former Flyer, the Blue Jackets moved closer to clinching their second-ever playoff berth. They closed within two points of the Flyers for third place in the Metropolitan Division. "Were in a good position," Dubinsky said. "Its not like where we were last year when we had to continue to watch and hope and chase teams. Were right where we want to be." The Flyers have lost three straight games and were shut out for the second straight time. They havent scored a goal in 130 minutes, 25 seconds, dating back to a third-period goal on March 30 against Boston. Flyers coach Craig Berube said the offence simply didnt test Bobrovsky enough, especially in the third. "Weve got to do a better job of getting shots through, get rebounds," he said. Wisniewski snapped a scoreless tie with his seventh goal of the season late in the second period. He finished off a Columbus attack that saw at least three shots on Steve Mason before he was able to slide in the puck with 6 seconds left on the power play. Dubinsky appeared to kick in the puck early in the third to make it 2-0. The Blue Jackets are about as automatic as it gets in the NHL with a lead after two periods: They improved to 27-2-4 with a two-period lead. "Were going to keep climbing," Bobrovsky said. The interesting matchup was the one between the pipes: Mason vs. Bobrovsky. Mason had it all figured out in Columbus when he went 33-20-7 with 10 shutouts and won the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year in 2008-09, the only season the Blue Jackets have made the playoffs. But Mason and Columbus could never recapture that fleeting success again. He fell to 20 wins and five shutouts the next season, and bottomed out in 2011-12 with a 16-26-3 mark. Mason lost his job to Bobrovsky, the former Flyer who blossomed into last seasons Vezina Trophy winner. Mason, who had 25 saves, was traded to the Flyers at the end of last season and became the No. 1 goalie after they bought out Ilya Bryzgalovs contract. Bobrovsky was expendable because Bryzgalov signed a nine-year deal and was supposed to anchor the net as Philadelphia chased its first Stanley Cup championship since 1975. Bryzgalovs quirky personality and sometimes brutal honesty with the media didnt always endear him to teammates and he lasted only two seasons. Mason and Bobrovsky are now leading playoff pushes for both organizations. Bobrovsky made 17 saves in the second period and the Blue Jackets defence kept the punchless Flyers out of the zone for most of the third. "We know it means a lot for him to be back here in Philly," Dubinsky said. "When you get traded from a team, it always feels good to go into the building and beat them. He was huge. He gave us an opportunity when we werent at our best in the first." The Flyers need to rediscover their offence over the final games if they want to make any kind of deep post-season run. "I dont think you can start pressing the panic button or anything like that, but we definitely need to get harder, especially in front of their end," forward Scott Hartnell said. NOTES: Flyers D Kimmo Timonen (upper body) returned to the lineup after a one-game absence. ... Bobrovsky has eight career shutouts. ... The Blue Jackets are 3-1 vs. the Flyers this season. ... The Blue Jackets and Flyers have played each other only 15 times. Jim Plunkett Womens Jersey . This has become the Raptors mantra as they embark on a new era with a new regime and, in the not-so-distant future, a new image. Willie Brown Womens Jersey .Y. -- Cory Schneider has to make the most of his opportunities to guard the New Jersey Devils net to earn more playing time. http://www.shoptheraidersonline.com/Elite-Jim-Otto-Raiders-Jersey/ .Y. - Islanders forward Anders Lee has been fined $2,286 by the NHL for elbowing St.OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma City Thunder have signed free agent point guard Sebastian Telfair. The Thunder made the announcement in a news release on Tuesday. Terms were not disclosed. Telfair joins the Thunder after spending last season with Tianjin Ronggang in China, where he averaged 26.1 points, 6.0 assists and 2.0 steals. The 13th overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft, Telfair owns careeer averages of 7. Jack Tatum Raiders Jersey. 4 points, 3.5 assists, 1.6 rebounds during nine seasons with Portland, Boston, Minnesota, the Los Angeles Clippers, Cleveland, Phoenix and Toronto. In his most recent NBA season, he averaged 5.6 points and 2.6 assists in 60 games for Phoenix and Toronto. The Thunder needed to fill the position because Derek Fisher now coaches the New York Knicks. ' ' '

Its been 11 years since Mike Weir raised his arms in celebration after tapping in a short putt to win the Masters. Boomer Esiason Jersey . For sure, April 2003 was a magical time for the lefthander. But it was April 2010 that may end up being just as significant. It was that month in that year that he conked a root with his swing and injured his elbow during play at the Heritage. That started the long spiral down from which he is still fighting to recover. Since that fateful day in Hilton Head, Weir has played 73 tournaments and missed the cut 53 times with four withdrawals. Hes had surgery and taken time away to recover from various ailments. Hes switched coaches and hes tried different swings. But through it all, one thing Weir has never done is lose hope. As good as his game has been over the years, as talented as he was with the putter and as precise as he was with the wedges, its his dog-on-a-bone determination, his will and self-belief that have been his biggest assets. And that only increases when it gets close to Masters time. "I really think I can contend there," Weir said of the years first major. "I still believe in myself, more than anything. When I step on the grounds there, I have confidence. I know how to play that golf course. I have a great strategy for that golf course that doesnt really change." Weir is playing the PGA Tour on the second of two lifetime money list exemptions but he has a lifetime pass to Augusta, so no matter what happens down the road, he can keep coming back. But he doesnt want to be there in a ceremonial way; he wants to see his name on the leaderboard again and he believes that can happen even if he admits that might surprise a few people. "Im definitely under the radar," stated Weir, who hasnt been under par at Augusta since his opening round of 2010. "I hope to build on the next couple weeks. Its obviously a course I love. Good vibes and memories there — and I definitely know how to play that golf course." During much of his period of struggle, its been the driver thats been the weak link in his bag but lately the troubles have come at the other end. "Ive been really struggling on the greens, which is unlike me. My last start in Tampa, I made only two birdies, from four and five feet. I think Ive just spent so much time on the golf swing — 80/20, probably — I just needed to put more attention on the short game, which Ive done." Even with renewed confidence in his big stick, Weir knows that to conquer Augusta National, hell need to have all parts of his game going. As a medium to short hitter, tackling a 7,700-yard layout is going to put pressure on his wedges and putter. The course is so different than the one he played on in his first Masters in 2000 and the one he won on in 2003. Its longer, has a first cut (aka rough) and trees have been planted that remove some the possible angles that can be used to get at pins. But mostly, its just so much longer. "It takes a special kind of week to win there," he stated, "for someone outside the bombers. But it can still be done." It would certainly be special to see Canadas most successful golfer in the hunt again at the Masters, or anywhere for that matter. If he doesnt, it certainly wont be from lack of effort. Weir has spent long hours on the range and the putting green, trying to find the magic once again. Perhaps it will finally come together for him at Augusta National. Joe Mixon Womens Jersey . Nothing pretty. But this is 1/4 World Cup. Usually plays out this way. Anthony Munoz Womens Jersey . -- Deshorn Brown scored twice, the first coming 13 seconds into the game, and the Colorado Rapids beat the undermanned Seattle Sounders 5-1 Saturday night. http://www.bengalsrookiestore.com/Customized/ .com) - Wimbledon runner-up Eugenie Bouchard notched a win, while second-seeded two-time champion Ana Ivanovic, third- seeded Australian Open runner-up Dominika Cibulkova and fifth seed Sabine Lisicki all exited the draw at the Generali Ladies Linz tennis event.He let fans know what happened during the John Tortorella dressing room invasion. The last time we played against Vancouver, coach Tortorella tried to come see us in our dressing room. — Boring Sean Monahan (@boringmonahan) March 9, 2014The Edmonton Oilers did not win against Monahan and the Flames. We played against the Edmonton Oilers tonight but they didnt win. — Boring Sean Monahan (@boringmonahan) March 23, 2014Hes shared his artwork of his team; which according to him is by far his best attempt. Ive tried to draw the Calgary Flames logo again. This is by far my best attempt. pic.twitter.com/xcODF2ofxZ — Boring Sean Monahan (@boringmonahan) March 19, 2014Hes asked teammate TJ Brodie if he wanted to go to the driving range. I had a conversation with T.J. Brodie about The Masterrs today. Anthony Munoz Jersey. pic.twitter.com/DQtDNwNJNA — Boring Sean Monahan (@boringmonahan) April 9, 2014Hes even provided commentary on what hes seen in the NHL playoffs. Pavel Datsyuk is better than some of the other players in the NHL. — Boring Sean Monahan (@boringmonahan) April 19, 2014Hes pulled classic pranks on his teammates. I said congrats to Joe Colborne on his 28th point, he said thanks Monny! I said April Fools Joe, you only have 27 points. — Boring Sean Monahan (@boringmonahan) April 2, 2014Even Brian Burke got into the action. At the team breakup dinner with @boringmonahan. He had steak. So did four other people at the table. — Brian Burke (@Burkie2020) April 15, 2014The account is still active and lets hope it stays that way for a long, long time. ' ' '

CHICAGO -- Luol Deng and the Chicago Bulls found a way to win, so this ugly game looked just fine to them. Denzel Ward Womens Jersey . Deng scored 21 points and the Bulls overcame a rough shooting night to beat the Charlotte Bobcats 86-81 on Monday for their fifth straight victory. "As I told our guys, it got choppy, particularly in the second quarter, and they do that to you. Theyre very good defensively," Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said. "I thought in the second half we did a better job of getting the ball to the second side, which you have to do." Carlos Boozer had 12 points and 17 rebounds for Chicago, which is on its longest winning streak since taking eight in a row from Feb. 20-March 7, 2012. Jimmy Butler had 14 points and Derrick Rose finished with 12. Dengs 3-pointer with 27.1 seconds remaining gave the Bulls an 85-81 lead. Gerald Henderson then missed for the Bobcats, and Rose had a free throw to help Chicago wrap it up. The Bulls went 26 for 31 at the foul line, compared to 8 for 16 for the Bobcats. "We fought hard. Obviously, the difference in the game was the difference in free throws," Bobcats coach Steve Clifford said. "You come here and theyre a great team, theyre well prepared. You cant get outscored by 18 at the free-throw line. Thats the game in a nutshell." Rose, who hit a career-high six 3-pointers in the Bulls 110-94 win Saturday over Indiana, went 4 for 13 from the field. The Bulls shot 27 of 75 (36 per cent) overall. "Well take it," said Rose, who played 31 minutes in his second game back after missing Chicagos win at Toronto on Friday with a sore right hamstring. Butler missed part of the game with a right toe injury but came back with 6:35 left in the fourth. Charlotte was looking for its fourth consecutive road victory and third in four games overall, but it was unable to take advantage of the Bulls poor shooting. Once again, the Bobcats struggled from the floor despite a strong effort in the paint. The Bobcats were shooting a league-worst 40.2 per cent from the field coming into the day, and they were 28th from 3-point range at 29.3 per cent. On Monday, they shot 36.3 per cent despite outscoring the Bulls 38-28 in the paint. "We played hard the whole game," said Henderson, who made two free throws with 51.3 seconds left to cut the Bulls lead to one. "We came out a little sluggish. We played them hard. We just didnt come up with the plays at the end of the game, defensively." Jeffery Taylor led Charlotte with a career-high 20 points and Henderson had 16 in a game that featured two of the leagues top defensive teams. Entering Monday, the Bulls were third in opponents scoring at 90.0 points per game, while the Bobcats were fourth at 93.6. "Theyre great defensively," Thibodeau said. "Steves a hell of a coach. Hes doing an unbelievable job. Im happy for him that hes finally gotten an opportunity and the job that hes doing." That defence helped Charlotte stay in the game without one of its best scorers. Bobcats centre Al Jefferson missed his third consecutive game with a bone bruise in his right ankle. Clifford said he hopes Jefferson can play Wednesday against Brooklyn, but he will more likely play Friday against Phoenix. Jefferson, who signed a three-year, $40.5 million contract with the Bobcats in July, has played in three of Charlottes 11 games and is averaging 15 points and 8.7 rebounds. Without him, Charlotte had a chance to win in the final minutes in Chicago, but couldnt find a way past the Bulls. "It was a long summer. We havent played in a while, all together. I think were starting to get a rhythm," Deng said. "Our offence, it still can get a lot better." NOTES: It was the Bulls last home game before they host New Orleans on Dec. 2. Their next six are away from Chicago as they go on their annual circus trip. ... Clifford and Thibodeau were on the New York Knicks coaching staff from 2001-2003 and in Houston from 2003-2007. ... Charlotte plays five of its next six at home. ... Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel, former Houston Rockets centre Yao Ming, Bulls Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen and NBA deputy commissioner Adam Silver were in attendance. Odell Beckham Jr Jersey . The appointment of Boullier continues the behind-the-scenes restructuring at McLaren, who recently brought back former team principal Ron Dennis as its new chief executive. Austin Seibert Womens Jersey .S. Olympic hockey management team have been making what he called "ghost rosters" since August. http://www.brownsrookiestore.com/Browns-Jarvis-Landry-Jersey/ .com) - Calgary Flames forward Johnny Gaudreau has been selected as the NHLs Rookie of the Month for December, the league announced Friday.Sky Sports presenter Alex Payne provides his predictions for Saturdays Autumn Internationals. Alex has run his eye across Sky Bets markets and has picked out plenty of selections from the try scorer and result markets, adding some interest for those fancying a wager.Heres what he is expecting this weekend... England v South Africa (Twickenham, 2.30pm, live on Sky Sports 1HD) England vs South Africa November 12, 2016, 2:00pm Live on Get Sky Sports Get a Sky Sports pass The history and form tell two very different stories coming into the first match of the Old Mutual Wealth series. England have not beaten the Boks in a decade (with 11 losses and a draw in that time) but have won their last ten internationals on the trot, nine of which coming under Eddie Jones, stretching back to the final game of the 2015 World Cup. However, whilst the Boks have dominated this recent head-to-head, they have managed only one win in their last six, and were pretty lucky to scrape a draw against the make-shift Barbarians last weekend.The problems for South Africa stretch far beyond those wearing the shirt and although they will be fired up, Jones should have his men too well prepared to be troubled. The head coach does have injury problems, but will expect those chosen to grab their chance. England to take it by more than 13 at 11/8 with Sky Bet.Electric Englishman Could Jamie George come on and score for England? Englands wingers have scored 23 tries in their last 20 tests which gives you a pretty good shot at Jonny May or Marland Yarde (both 9/4). But Im going for Elliot Daly; he has been chomping at the bit for this opportunity, I think his pace could cause huge problems in the 13 channel - he is 3/1 to score on his first start. For longer odds, consider Jamie George. Englands replacement hooker is the top try scorer in the Premiership this season with five in eight - all of them have come in the second half, and I fancy him to score the last try at 20/1.South Africa striker South Africa flanker Willem Alberts The Boks have scored one try in their last three tests and looked very blunt last weekend against the Babaas. No visitors try is worth covering at 3/1 but their biggest threat is their power game - Willem Alberts brings plenty of that, and has scored three tries in four games against England. He is 9/1 anytime.Wales v Argentina (Principality Stadium, 5.30pm)Wales have won four of the last five between these two but come into the game off the back of a mauling against the Wallabies and a heavy three-test loss to the All Blacks in the summer. Argentina registered just the one win in the Rugby Championship, but did play some great rugby - most notably against New Zealand in Dunedin. Last week, they warmed up with an easy win over Japan.Sam Warburton, Alun Wyn Jones and Liam Williams are back in red, but are short of game time of late. Although they will have Wales fired up, I think there is more woe to come. Argentina have squad depth and continuity in selection and I think theyll squeeze home by 1-5 at 5/1.Welsh wonder Gareth Davies in action for Wales Gareth Davies has seven tries in 14 tests and always threatens the line. Given the nine shirt in the absence of Rhys Webb, he worth backing to grab a try.Puma powerFacundo Isa has been superb for the Pumas this year, and has scored against Australia and New Zealand recently. Austin Seibert Browns Jersey. . My bold call for this weekend is for the No 8 to score the first try at 22/1 with Sky Bet.Scotland v Australia (Murrayfield, 2.30pm)There has been plenty of talk from Scotland about using the pain of last years World Cup quarter-final loss as motivation this weekend. But the more significant talking point is the inexperience on either side of the front row - Allan Dell is making his debut, Zander Fagerson is winning his second cap.The Wallabies had a big injection of confidence in Cardiff, and if they get the nudge up front, they should have too many options in attack at Murrayfield. The last four have been very close - two wins apiece settled by an average of less than three points - but with clear conditions forecast, I think Australia should ease home by 11-15 at 4-1.Scottish scorcher Scotlands Stuart Hogg (top) is pushing for a Lions place In a Lions season, these are the games to catch the eye. Stuart Hogg has made no secret of his desperation to be on the plane to New Zealand; he is probably the form No 15 at the moment and is worth backing as an anytime try scorer.Awesome Australian Will Genia has been standout performer for the Wallabies this season Will Genia has been standout performer for the Wallabies this season, and returns to the starting line-up this weekend after club commitments in France. The scrum-half is a good bet snipe in for a try.Ireland v Canada (Aviva Stadium, 7.15pm, live on Sky Sports 3HD) Ireland vs Canada November 12, 2016, 7:00pm Live on Get Sky Sports Get a Sky Sports pass Joe Schmidts Ireland are all change from the heroes of Chicago, but dont expect a drop off in performance. After their first win over the All Blacks, the Aviva will be absolutely bouncing and I expect the men in green to register a comfortable win. Canada are not a side ready to claim the scalp of a tier one team - their last win over a major nation came against Scotland in 2002. Ireland put 50 on them in the Rugby World Cup a year ago, and I expect them to break the half century again, beating Sky Bets 38-point handicap at 10/11.Irish inspirationThe time has finally come for Garry Ringrose to make his international debut. There has been a lot of hype around the young Irishman, and he is worth backing to fan those flames with a debut try.Canadian candidate Will DTH van der Merwe get a chance to show his pace? DTH van der Merwe. Chances may be few and far between for Canada, but if they are on offer van der Merwe will snaffle them. Remarkably hes scored six tries in his last five tests (including one against Ireland last year) and is definitely worth a nod at a decent price. Get a Day Pass Watch the Autumn Internationals with a Day Pass from NOW TV, ￡6.99 - no contract Also See: England v SA: Key battles Jones: England must be smart Strauss shrugs off Jones jibes Follow @SkySportsRugby ' ' '

INDIANAPOLIS - Reggie Wayne keeps moving up the receiving charts. Mark Stone Jersey . On Sunday, he passed Hall of Famer Cris Carter for No. 8 on the NFLs career list in yards receiving. Wayne caught five passes for 34 yards in the first quarter, giving him 13,904 yards, 5 more yards than Carter gained in his career. Wayne also extended his NFL record of consecutive games with three or more receptions to 76. And Wayne may not be done. Hall of Famer James Lofton is eighth on the NFLs career list with 14,004 yards. Nick Holden Golden Knights Jersey .J. -- Having Ondrej Pavelec earn his 100th NHL win and seeing Mark Scheifele and Evander Kane break goal droughts were nice highlights for the Winnipeg Jets. Cody Eakin Jersey . That was OK with him. He was just happy his team came away with two points. Letestu redirected Jack Johnsons shot from the point with 2:38 left, lifting the Blue Jackets past the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-2 on Monday night. http://www.goldenknightssale.com/authentic-marc-andre-fleury-golden-knights-jersey/ . The Indians scored twice in the top of the ninth, getting the go-ahead run on a wild pitch by closer Matt Lindstrom. Axford (0-1) came in seeking his fifth save in as many chances.Got a question on rule clarification, comments on rule enforcements or some memorable NHL stories? Kerry wants to answer your emails at cmonref@tsn.ca. Hi Kerry, Love reading your column and loved watching your analysis on the TSN broadcasts!And were now in Round 2! Bruins! Canadiens! We know all about the great games of the past from the players, the broadcasters and the writers. How many games have you officiated between these two teams and what memories do you have from them?Kenneth Wilder,Montreal Kenneth: I worked far too many games between these two great Original Six Adams Division rivals during my 30 year NHL career to even count. What I will never forget is the intense energy that was created both on the ice and in the stands whenever these two teams met. The Bruin teams that general manager Harry Sinden assembled always had some scary dudes in the lineup to deal with over the years. The Big Bad Bruins were best known for playing a tough, intimidating, yet hard-working style that often made it a challenge for any referee to keep things under control. Players such as Wayne Cashman, Terry OReilly, Stan Jonathan or Jay Miller, just to mention a few, could usually be counted upon to make my life interesting. Star players like Raymond Bourque, Rick Nifty Middleton, and power forwards Al Secord and Cam Neely balanced the Bruins attack. I saw Jean Ratelle at the end of his career as a Boston Bruin and recall that Mr. Ratelle was one of the finest gentlemen I ever dealt with on the ice. Montreal tended to prefer a speed and finesse game led by the grace and skill of Guy Lafleur but they had their share of top notch muckers, grinders and checkers as well. Bob Gainey, Guy Carbonneau, Brian Skrudland, Mike Keane, Ryan Walter, Kirk Muller were all examples of Hab players that played a 200 foot game that was instilled by a long list of Hab coaches. Some of the best fights I witnessed involved John Kordic of the Habs. Mario Tremblay was a guy that played the game the right way and could really fight as well. I would be remiss if I didnt mention my new bestie Chris Nilan who I always had to keep a sharp eye on when he played for both the Canadiens and the Bruins! One of the most bizarre lines of defense I ever heard from a player in a league hearing came from Nuckles after I assessed the Canadiens tough guy a match penalty for knocking Nifty Middletons teeth out with a butt-end (Nucks still insists it was his glove). The incident took place in a game in the Bruins end zone, well away from the play and as the puck was moving up ice. Fortunately I snapped my head back toward Nilan in the perfect moment to catch the strike on Middleton. At the subsequent hearing held in the NHL boardroom in Montreal I got the cold icy stare from Nuckles when he arrived with team general manager Serge Savard. League disciplinarian, V.P. Brian ONeill, read my game report and the asked Chris if he had anything to say on his behalf. Reilly Smith Golden Knights Jersey. In a thick Boston accent Nucks said, "Yah, I got something to say for myself; Kerry Fraser picks on me and gives me more penalties than any other referee in the league. Whenever Im on the ice hes always watching me. Just to prove my point, if he had of been watching what he should have been (the puck and play going up ice) he wouldnt have seen me butt-end Middleton in the mouth!" Serge Savard practically spit his coffee all over the board room table following Nilans unusual line of defense. Brian ONeill suspended Chris for eight games, which at the time was substantial (Catch Nuckles on his terrific show on TSN Radio Montreal. Chris picks on me now as a frequent guest on his radio show). As we approach Game 1 tonight of the 34th such playoff series between the Bruins and the Canadiens, I will share two personal experiences. The first involves the classy superstar and HHOF member Raymond Bourque. After the national anthem and prior to the opening puck drop, Bourque approached me quietly and advised me to be sure to move away from the dot at center ice quickly if his center ice man won the faceoff cleanly back to him. If that were to happen, Bourque said he was going to pound the puck at the Montreal net to try and catch Patrick Roy off guard. Sure enough, the puck was drawn back cleanly to Raymond. The Bruin wound up for a slapper with his head up but noticed that I got caught up in the wingers behind me and was unable to clear the spot. Instead of blasting the puck, Bourque froze his pose in the back swing. My life practically passed before my eyes but the deliberate pregnant pause allowed me to back away before Raymond pounded the puck through the very spot that I had been standing a moment earlier. Game on as Roy made the save. The other involves a fan that was either drunk, out of control, or most likely both. In a very tough game I had just assessed a penalty and was standing in the referee crease during a commercial timeout and as the players stood at their respective bench. An empty 26 ounce Seagrams whiskey bottle flew out of the upper level of the Forum and landed at center ice. The bottle hit the ice flat, didnt break and began to spin as it moved in my direction. The bottle then struck the dasher kick plate beside my skate and amazingly still did not break. I picked the empty bottle of 5 Star off the ice and handed it to the penalty timekeeper. Even though these incidents occurred in different games from different playoff seasons, I had two narrow misses; one from a Raymond Bourque slap shot while the other was a flying whiskey bottle. Ray demonstrated the class I always experienced from the Bs superstar. The only positive thing I can say about the classless fan is that at least he drained the contents of the bottle prior to throwing it! I expect an emotional, tough series between these two old Adams Division rivals. ' ' '

NEW YORK, N. Mitch Wishnowsky Womens Jersey .Y. -- Toronto Blue Jays slugger Edwin Encarnacion was named American League player of the month Tuesday while Yasiel Puig of the Los Angeles Dodgers took the National League honour. Encarnacion belted a club record 16 home runs last month and batted .281 with five doubles, one triple and 33 RBIs. He scored 26 runs and walked 16 times over 30 games to claim the honour for the first time. Encarnacion had five multi-homer games in May. He was just shy of Carlos Delgados club record of 34 RBIs in a month set in June 2003. Others receiving votes included Miguel Cabrera (.380, 8 HR, 34 RBI), Detroit teammate Victor Martinez (.372, 9 HR, 21 RBI) and Baltimores Nelson Cruz (.339, 13 HR, 27 RBI). Jose Bautista was the last Toronto player to win the award. He took the honour in June 2012. Deebo Samuel Jersey . - Chris Davis hit a two-run double, scoring Nelson Cruz in his Orioles debut in Baltimores 9-7 win over to the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday. Roger Craig 49ers Jersey . Halladays resume as a Blue Jay is among the elite in the franchises 36-year history. Over 12 seasons in Toronto, he was named an All-Star six times. He had arguably the finest campaign of his career in 2003 when he posted a 22-7 record, a 3. http://www.thesf49ersshoponline.com/Youth-Ya-Tittle-49ers-Jersey/ . -- Jaye Marie Green shot a course-record 10-under 62 on Wednesday to take the first-round lead in the LPGA Tours qualifying tournament. SPA, Belgium -- Lewis Hamilton surprised even himself after beating both Red Bulls to secure his fourth consecutive pole position in a rain-soaked qualifying session at the Belgian Grand Prix on Saturday. The Mercedes driver is the first Briton since Damon Hill in 1995 to get four straight poles and has set himself up perfectly to keep the pressure on championship leader Sebastian Vettel, who starts Sundays race from second ahead of teammate Mark Webber. "I dropped to five, six seconds back, so I didnt know what was going on," Hamilton said. "But I kept pushing ... I feel so fortunate to get pole." He had expected worse. "When I started the lap, I looked at the screen and I was seventh or eighth and it was raining more and more," Hamilton said. "I feel quite comfortable in changing conditions and I feel I am able to find my limits." Many observers predicted Hamiltons off-season transition from McLaren to Mercedes would be difficult, and while he took until last months Hungarian GP to get his first win, Hamilton has been remarkably consistent in qualifying. Hamilton starts on the front row for the seventh consecutive race and eight from nine. "I feel I have been driving well for some time now," said the 2008 F1 champion, who is fourth overall and needs to make up 48 points on Vettel in nine races. Teammate Nico Rosberg starts from fourth on the grid. The German has three poles this season -- all consecutive -- giving Mercedes eight from 11 altogether. Vettel has the other three, but the last was when he won from the front at the Canadian GP in June. "I saw Lewis catching me up in the last lap, so I could have gone quicker," Vettel said. "Lets now see what happens tomorrow when we expect similar conditions." Hamilton left it to the last second to beat Vettels time as the lead changed hands in a flurry of activity. Rosberg, Webber and then Vettel beat each others marks, only for Hamilton to go fastest for the fifth time this season and the 31st time in his career. Kwon Alexander Womens Jersey. He let out a long scream of delight on crossing the line. "I just hope we can do that in the race tomorrow," Hamilton said. "The (Mercedes) guys have done a fantastic job to bring the right package here." Mercedes has won three of the past five races and has the edge on Red Bull for speed if not durability. Paul di Resta qualified in fifth and the British driver looked set for an upset until the drivers came back out on new tires. Last years winner Jenson Button starts from sixth for McLaren, ahead of Lotus pair Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean. But it was a bad afternoon for Fernando Alonso, who was ninth for Ferrari -- which has struggled in qualifying all season. "The aim is to win. Anything can happen here," a defiant Alonso said. "If we manage to pass people in front, we have the pace." Alonso was fastest in the first qualifying run ahead of Hamilton, with Dutchman Giedo van der Garde a surprising third. Raikkonen topped Q2 ahead of Alonso. The rain returned for Q3 and up went the umbrellas around the 7.004-kilometre (4.352-mile) circuit -- the longest on the F1 calendar and most difficult along with Monaco. Di Resta gambled on some parts of the track keeping dry because the unique microclimate in Spa means it can be wet and dry in different places. He stayed out while all the others funneled back in single file to switch to intermediates. "I saw umbrellas coming up so I made the right choice," he said. "It was the right time, but our car is not that quick in the wet." The unpredictable and rapidly-changing conditions induced a sense of panic in the air around the thick Ardennes forest. "We need to get out there as soon as possible," Rosberg barked over race radio. It made for painful viewing back in the paddock. "I think I aged about 10 years," Red Bull team principal Christian Horner said. "The boys did a tremendous job to turn around both cars and get them out in time." ' ' '

OAKLAND, Calif. Tom Brady Jersey . -- Jon Lester took the mound in a different uniform and, for the first time in his major league career, felt just slightly out of place. Quickly enough, he put aside the newness of pitching for Oakland -- and the expectations that hell help lead baseballs winningest team on a deep run in October. Lester worked into the seventh inning to win his Athletics debut and Gomes produced two timely hits during an eight-run burst in his Bay Area return for an 8-3 victory against the Kansas City Royals on Saturday. Two days after being traded from the sagging World Series champion Boston Red Sox, Lester and Gomes teamed up on a nice win out West. "After warming up it felt a little more normal, getting back to the pitching performance and worrying about that and not worrying about living situations or moving or anything like that," Lester said. "It was a little different at first." Lesters parents flew down from the Seattle area for his start. The 6-foot-4 lefty instantly became an imposing presence in the pitcher-friendly Coliseum. Fans in the crowd of 30,097 cheered as he went through his warmup routine in left field, then Lester (11-7) tipped his cap to a roaring ovation when he left after 6 2-3 innings and 104 pitches. "To walk off to the ovation was great," Lester said. "It kind of makes you feel welcome." Lester gave up three runs and nine hits, striking out three and walking one. Manager Bob Melvin joked about being scared to take him out. "I said, Nice going, big fella. He is a big fella," Melvin said. Back with the AL West-leading As, Gomes delivered like old 2012 times. He singled and scored off Jason Vargas (8-5), then added a hit a two-run single off Aaron Crow. "Every once in a while some new blood, some new energy can help out," Gomes said. Pitching on seven days rest after being scratched Wednesday ahead of the trade deadline, Lester improved to 8-3 with a 2.20 ERA in 12 career starts against the Royals. He hasnt lost in nine starts overall since June 7 at Detroit. "Jonny Lester is one of the best pitchers in the American League," Royals manager Ned Yost said. The As went ahead with their planned promotion, passing out 10,000 Yoenis Cespedes T-shirts reading "La Potencia" -- it pays tribute to his power. The two-time Home Run Derby champ was traded to Boston in the big swap and made his Red Sox debut Saturday. Vargas came off the disabled list to make his first start since undergoing an appendectomy July 9. After the first 12 As batters were retired in order, the next 12 produced eight hits and eight runs. Oakland lost second baseman Nick Punto when he strained his right hamstring, and he will require a disabled list stint. He rounded third on Jed Lowries RBI single in the fifth, but slid toward the coachs box and grabbed the back of his leg before hobbling back to the bag. REPLAY REVIEW: In the fourth, the umpires went to replay to determine whether As catcher Derek Norris improperly blocked the plate when he tagged a sliding Alex Gordon. The out call was confirmed, with newly acquired centre fielder Sam Fulds throw resulting in a sensational double play. "I knew I had a chance," Fuld said. "Its hard to throw guys out at home, especially with the new rules." TRAINERS ROOM Royals: First baseman Eric Hosmer went on the 15-day disabled with a stress fracture of the third finger on his right hand. Athletics: Center fielder Coco Crisp missed his sixth straight game with a strained neck. Melvin said the As arent putting him on the DL because Crisp has shown he can make quick progress once back doing baseball activities, which could be Sunday. ON DECK Kansas City right-hander James Shields (9-6, 3.50 ERA) makes his team-leading 24th start. Scott Kazmir (12-3, 2.37) opposes him. Custom New England Patriots Jerseys .Just like old times.Only this time, just one got to enjoy a victory.James return to Miami as an opponent was a success — for the Heat, that is. Wade scored 24 of his 31 points in the first half, Luol Deng had 25 points and dogged James defensively all night, and the Heat beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 101-91 in a hyped Christmas matchup Thursday. Drew Bledsoe Patriots Jersey . Jason Zucker and Matt Cooke also scored for Minnesota, which has won five of six. Kuemper made five saves in the first, nine in the second, and nine in the third. The rookies best save came with 2:17 left in the third period when he denied former Wild forward Matt Cullen from just outside of the crease on the right side. https://www.patriotssportsgoods.com/Womens-Tedy-Bruschi-Inverted-Jersey/ . For the Blue Jays the time was Wednesday and the ace was R.A. Dickey. He stepped up. "I feel some responsibility as a stopper from time to time," said Dickey.ST. LOUIS -- Jeff Fisher has never been afraid to buck a trend, draft a troubled player or grant a second chance. The coach of the Rams stuck with Adam "Pacman" Jones and Kenny Britt when he was at Tennessee, despite their off-field problems. Britt is now reunited with Fisher in St. Louis. Fisher recently rehired Gregg Williams, the defensive co-ordinator who was given a one-year suspension by the league for the bounty scandal with the Saints. It was not a surprise that it was Fisher who helped Michael Sam make history as the first openly gay player drafted by an NFL team. "He is an amazing leader, and even better, hes a better man," said Wade Davis, the head of an advocacy group for lesbian and gay athletes. Davis currently is doing some work with the NFL. "He looks at everything from all angles and hes not afraid to take on a challenge." The 56-year-old Fisher deflects any praise for being a trailblazer, insisting it was simply a football decision to upgrade one of the NFLs top pass rushes by taking Sam at No. 249. "In our world, nobodys going to agree with what you do 100 per cent of the time because everybody has opinions, and thats fine," Fisher said. "Im concerned about whats going on in the building, with the staff and players, the direction were headed. Thats always been the case." At least on the field, Fisher can relate to the challenge for Sam. He also was a seventh-round pick, the fourth wheel of a star-studded Southern California secondary that featured Ronnie Lott, Dennis Smith and Joey Browner. He then carved out a career playing under Mike Ditka for a Super Bowl winner in Chicago and is entering his 19th season as an NFL head coach. Lott, a Hall of Famer, recalls Fisher smoothly making the switch from wide receiver to cornerback. "To me, its easy to play wide receiver because you know where youre going," Lott said. "Having to react, respond and do it with confidence and knowing youre not going to win every play, thats the mindset on defence. The determination he had then has stayed with him." Not long after Sam came out in February, Fisher said hed have no problem having him on the team, that this was an age of diversity. Turns out it wasnt just talk. Several picks before the Rams took Sam, Fisheer broached the subject with owner Stan Kroenke and general manager Les Snead. Tedy Bruschi Jersey. Ditka said he wasnt surprised it was Fisher who stepped up when every other team was backing away from Sam. Ditka, who once traded all his draft picks to land Ricky Williams, called it a "pretty gutsy move." Players have fallen in lockstep with their coach on the question of picking Sam. Defensive end Chris Long called it a "football move" and so did linebacker James Laurinaitis. "I dont think it was courageous," Laurinaitis said. "I think its a calculated move by the organization. ... If you have the opportunity to draft a guy that you think is extremely productive and maybe you had a higher grade on him than where he is, you go ahead and take that. I think football-wise, it was a very smart decision." Fisher wouldnt say how far Sam slid on the Rams draft board. The coach joked that divulging that information might affect Sams rookie contract. Titans broadcaster Thom Abraham remembers Fisher in 2009 after Tennessees 0-6 start removing his sport coat, tie and shirt at the podium of a civic function to reveal a Peyton Manning jersey underneath. The punch line: "I just wanted to know what it felt like to be a winner." "Picking Sam did not surprise me one bit," Abraham said of Fisher. "Hes confident in his ability to be out front, and almost represent the NFL." Sam has had several off-season workouts and more practices are on tap this week with the veterans. Long said Sam was working hard and former Missouri teammate, receiver T.J. Moe, said the team viewed Sam simply as someone trying to make it in the NFL. "He is on the team. Theres a 90-man roster, it doesnt go 89 and then Michael Sams over there, this is the gay team, this is the straight team," Moe said. "Michael Sam is on this team and hes treated just like anybody else." And if Sam struggles, nobody that knows Fisher well doubts the coach will have any problem cutting him loose. "He doesnt like doing that part of it," said Brad Hopkins, a former Pro Bowl offensive tackle who played his entire NFL career under Fisher. "But he knows it has to be done, and that you cant make everybody happy." ' ' '

ABERDEEN -- Three years after virtually giving up on links golf, a more mature Rory McIlroy appears ready to give it another chance. Chuck Foreman Womens Jersey . McIlroy tamed blustery conditions on day one of the Scottish Open to shoot a 7-under 64 on Thursday, giving him a one-stroke lead and showing his links game is in great shape ahead of next weeks British Open at Hoylake. "I feel I am as prepared as I have ever been to play this type of golf," a smiling McIlroy said after rolling in eight birdies -- six of which came in a stunning seven-hole spell from Nos. 8-14 at Royal Aberdeen. How things have changed from 2011. At a wet and wild British Open at Royal St. Georges that year, a frustrated McIlroy opened his heart, saying he wasnt a fan of tournaments where the "outcome is predicted so much by the weather" and that "theres no point in changing your game for one week a year." Coming from someone who grew up playing on the links in his native Northern Ireland, it was a strange outburst. That seems to be in the past now. "Im going to make it my favourite style for two weeks a year," said McIlroy, adding he was "relishing the challenge" of playing in the wind and rain. Unheralded Swede Kristoffer Broberg -- who went out in the first group at 6:30 a.m. local time -- and Ricardo Gonzalez of Argentina shot 65s to lie one shot behind McIlroy. Michael Hoey, a compatriot of McIlroy, was a stroke further back after a 5-under 66, and former world No. 1 Luke Donald was among four players to shoot 67. Phil Mickelson missed a 3-foot par putt at the final hole for his only bogey in a 68, a solid start by the American to the defence of his title. McIlroys course-record round stood out, though. Refreshed after a two-week break that included a five-day trip to the Spanish island of Ibiza with friends, the two-time major winner looked back to his sharpest. He showed a good feel on the greens, especially in that barrage of birdies around the turn, and drove straight and long in the face of winds of up to 20 mph (30 kph). One of the highlights of his round was driving the green on the 436-yard 13th hole while the group ahead was on the putting surface. "I didnt really think that was out there," American golfer Rickie Fowler said of McIlroys score. Ominously for his British Open rivals, McIlroy said he felt completely at one with his game, the "polar opposite" to this time last year when he was "not very confident with anything." "Everything was pretty much on," he said. "In the conditions, this is as low as I have ever been." McIlroy has had problems backing up good opening rounds this season, so there is still hope for the rest of the field in northern Scotland. Up at 4 a.m. local time, Broberg showed the kind of form that won him four events on the second-tier Challenge Tour in 2012, earned him his tour card, and marked him as a star of the future. Five of his six birdies came from Nos. 6-12 and Broberg had just 24 putts in his round, putting him in contention to claim one of the four qualifying berths for the British Open that are available at Royal Aberdeen for non-exempt players finishing in the top 10. Gonzalez made light work of a front nine playing into the wind, and was 8 under par after an eagle 3 at No. 12. Two bogeys at the end saw him drop off the lead. Mickelsons round was typically eventful. A chip to 10 feet from a cart path at No. 13 was his shot of the day, while the British Open champion avoided a penalty on the 10th when his ball moved on his backswing for his second shot. A sharp gust of wind was to blame. Lee Westwood recovered from dropping five shots in his first five holes to post a 72, and six-time major winner Nick Faldo, playing his first regular European Tour event since 2010, had a 2-over 73 as he gets ready for a return to the British Open. Tom Lewis made a hole in one on the par-3 No. 17 on his way to a 70. Adrian Peterson Jersey .C. -- The Carolina Panthers announced Thursday theyve signed free agent wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery to a two-year contract, helping rebuild a depleted wide receiving corps. Dalvin Cook Youth Jersey .C. -- Marcus Paige and his North Carolina teammates have endured so many wild swings -- big wins, surprising losses, NCAA drama -- that no one can blame their Hall of Fame coach for wondering whats next. http://www.thevikingsshoponline.com/Youth-Alan-Page-Vikings-Jersey/ . Ferrer was unable to find his rhythm in losing 6-4, 6-2 to Teymuraz Gabashvili in his opening match while Nadal struggled past fellow Spanish player Albert Ramos 7-6 (2), 6-4. Nadal eventually overcame his 103rd-ranked opponent to reach the third round, rebounding from a surprise loss to Ferrer in the Monte Carlo Masters quarterfinals.Aston Villa have completed the sale of the club to the Recon Group, a day after its owner Tony Xia passed the Premier League and Football Leagues fit and proper person test. The Chinese businessman bought the Sky Bet Championship club in May from American Randy Lerner, who had been looking to sell up since 2014.Xia needed to pass the customary test for his takeover of the club to be completed and it was understood on Monday that the 39-year-old had been given the green light and was in the UK to complete Villas acquisition. A statement on the clubs website on Tuesday afternoon read: Aston Villa is delighted to confirm the sale of the club.. Who is the new Villa owner? All you need to know about Dr Tony Xia The completion of 100 per cent ownership from Randy Lerner has been rubber-stamped by the Football League.Dr Xia has been informed he passed the owners and directors test and following the completion of paperwork, is now the Clubs new owner and chairman. A new board will be appointed later this week. New Aston Villa owner Tony Xia revealed the club will have £30-40m to invest in new players Investigations into Xias conglomerate, Recon Group, were carried out jointly by the Premier League and Football League as Villa, relegated from the top-flight this season, did not officially become a Championship club until June. Adrian Peterson Youth Jersey. On May 18, when the sale of the club was first announced pending the fit and proper tests, Villa said that their new owner decided to buy an iconic football club in England as the cornerstone of his Sports, Leisure and Tourism Division.Their statement added: He became a fan of Aston Villa many years ago and is delighted at the opportunity to become the new owner. Roberto Di Matteo and Steve Clarke will link up at Villa Dr Xias immediate objective is to return Aston Villa to the Premier League and then to have the club finish in the top six, bringing European football back to Villa Park.He plans to make Aston Villa the most famous football club in China with a huge fan base.Villa appointed Roberto Di Matteo as their new manager on a two-year contract on June 3, with the Italian then securing the services of Steve Clarke, sacked as Reading boss in December, as his assistant. Also See: Di Matteo is new Aston Villa boss Who is Tony Xia? Villa can be worlds most famous Villa takeover completed ' ' '