Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

The Sports Matrix: Thursday 27 December 2012

 

Wednesday 26 December 2012 20:00 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Ferguson's lauds United's 'courage' after vital victory

Sir Alex Ferguson described Manchester United's display in their 4-3 win over Newcastle as "Championship-winning" form. United exploited Manchester City's defeat 1-0 against Sunderland when Javier Hernandez scored in the 90th minute, extending their Premier League lead to seven points. James Perch put Newcastle ahead and, though Jonny Evans levelled in the 25th minute, the United defender scored an own-goal three minutes later. Patrice Evra levelled before Papiss Cisse's shot made it 3-2 to Newcastle. Robin van Persie then equalised before Hernandez struck the winner for United – who were without Wayne Rooney – and who Ferguson said will miss "two to three weeks" having pulled a knee ligament in training. Ashley Young was also injured in the session. "Once again they have proved their courage," said Ferguson. "Never gave in. Down three times and eventually they deserved to win the game. The statement was the performance, never mind where we are at this moment in time. That was a Championship-winning performance." page 52

O'Driscoll sacked after Forest win

Nottingham Forest sacked manager Sean O'Driscoll after he led them to a 4-2 win over Leeds which left the club one point off the play-off places. Owners Fawaz al-Hasawi and Abdulaziz al-Hasawi said they wanted a manager with "Premier League experience". MORE

Stoke strike thrice to stun Liverpool

Stoke City claimed a 3-1 win over Liverpool at the Britannia Stadium last night. Steven Gerrard's second-minute penalty gave Liverpool the lead before Jonathan Walters levelled for Stoke and Kenwyne Jones headed the hosts in front, with Walters adding a third. MORE

Bale's hat-trick secures Spurs win

Gareth Bale struck a second-half hat-trick as Tottenham beat Aston Villa 4-0. Chelsea defeated Norwich 1-0 thanks to Juan Mata's 38th minute goal, moving the London club to within four points of second-placed Manchester City. MORE

Lambert claims Saints a point

Rickie Lambert's 85th minute penalty earned Southampton a 1-1 draw at Fulham, after the hosts led through Dimitar Berbatov. Meanwhile, basement club QPR suffered a 2-1 home defeat to West Brom. MORE

Long Run claims King George win

Long Run claimed victory in an enthralling finish to the King George VI Chase at Kempton, winning it for a second time. Jockey Sam Waley-Cohen, last year's Gold Cup winner, made an error five out but persevered to triumph by a neck. MORE

Ospreys close in on play-offs with win

The Ospreys moved to within one point of the Pro12 play-off places with a 32-3 triumph over the Scarlets, who had replacements Rob McCusker and Gareth Owen sent off in the final minutes.

Interview: Courtney Lawes

Northampton's versatile forward tells Richard Rae about his high hopes for England and the Lions after the 23-year-old's 2012 was spoiled by injuries and a lack of motivation. MORE

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in