Bernie’s Sports Focus - 9th August 2012

Olympics

America’s Aries Merrit stormed to gold in the men’s 10m and Allyson Felix finally clinched gold in the women’s 200m.

It’s third time lucky for Felix who took silver in 2004 and 2008.

31-year old Natalya Antyukh of Russia won gold in the women’s 400m hurdles beating off a strong challenge from world champion Lashinda Demus of the United States.

There was a bronze for Ireland and Cian O’Connor in show-jumping and Paddy Barnes gave Ireland their forth boxing medal.

Defending volleyball champions United States were knocked out by Italy who completely dominated their more favoured opponents.

The Italians will now meet 2008 silver medalists Brazil for a place in the final.

Usain Bolt will be aiming to add to his 100mgold when he runs in the 200mfinals tonight.

Other highlights tonight include the men’s 800m final and the opening rounds of the men’s 4x 400m relay.

Football

Manchester United’s bid to sign Arsenal striker robin Van Persie has so far feen unsuccessful with United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admitting it is very difficult to deal with the London club.

Last night United played Barcelona in a pre-season friendly in Sweden, losing 2-0 on penalties after the game ended goal-less.

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Celtic booked their place in the next round of the champions League with a comfortable 2-nil win over HJK Helsinki.

In other games last night, Motherwill lost 3-0 to Panathinaikos and Limassol of Cyprus beat Partizan Belgrade 1-0.
There is Europa League action tonight with Liverpool at home to FK Gomel, Dundee United are away to Dinamo Moscow and Inter have a 3-0 advantage for their second leg against Hajduk Split.

Jamica’a Yohan Blake, silver medalist in the 100m behind Usain Bolt goes head to head with his countryman again tonight in the 200m.

But Blake could face sanctions from the I O C because of a designer watch he wore during the 100m.
The IOC have strict rules on what sponsorships athletes can wear.

If Blake is fined, he could always sell the watch..it is a unique one-off design with a price tag of $500,000.

Flash news

It is being reported that Valentino Rossi is to sign a new contract with Yamaha for next season.

The nine times world champion has struggled with Ducati and his return to Yamaha will re-kindle his fierce rivalry with current Moto GP leader Jorge Lorenzo.