Murray's conqueror marches on in Rome

Murray's conqueror marches on in Rome
Argentina's Juan Monaco continued his fine run at the Rome Masters with a fine victory over 15th seed Marin Cilic of Croatia.

Bolt survives high speed car crash

Bolt survives high speed car crash
The world's fastest man Usain Bolt escapes serious injury in a crash in his native Jamaica which wrecks his high-speed sports car. Bolt became a global superstar after winning three golds at the Beijing Olympics last year.

Man Utd face anxious wait over Ferdinand

Man Utd face anxious wait over Ferdinand
Machester United are sweating on the fitness of Rio Ferdinand after the central defender picked up a rib injury in the dying moments of their Champions League semifinal against Arsenal on Wednesday night.

Nuggets Win Their First Playoff Series Since 1994

Armstrong returns to action after injury
Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong is back in competitive action after breaking his collarbone in a race in Spain last month.
Nuggets Win Their First Playoff Series Since 1994
DENVER -- With a little help from the hometown kid, Carmelo Anthony is finally moving on.

Paster's last-minute goal lifts Immaculate boys
Danny Paster scored the winning goal with 50 seconds remaining as the Immaculate High boys lacrosse team beat crosstown rival Danbury 14-13 in a non-conference game on Wednesday. Conor Murphy assisted on the goal. Greg Wax led Immaculate with three goals and two assists.

Murray crashes out of Rome Masters

Murray crashes out of Rome Masters
World number four Andy Murray crashed out of the Rome Masters to qualifier Juan Monaco on Wednesday.

McLaren get suspended three-race ban

McLaren get suspended three-race ban
World champion Lewis Hamilton and his McLaren team escape with a suspended three-race ban for "deliverately misleading" stewards at the Australian Grand Prix.

McLaren handed suspended three-race ban

McLaren handed suspended three-race ban
World champion Lewis Hamilton and his McLaren team have escaped with a suspended three-race ban for "deliverately misleading" stewards at the Australian Grand Prix.

Blazers Beat Rockets to Avoid Elimination

IOC confirm six athletes test positive
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirm that further analysis of samples taken from the Beijing Games revealed that seven samples, from six athletes, tested positive for the blood-boosting hormone CERA.
Blazers Beat Rockets to Avoid Elimination
Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge each scored 25 points, as Portland staves off elimination in the playoffs with an 88-77 victory over Houston on Tuesday night.

Freshman ace leads Wildcats
BETHEL -- Bethel's Lydia Socci held the visiting Stratford Red Devils to two runs in the Wildcats' 8-2 South-West Conference Tuesday afternoon. The freshman pitcher racked up nine strikeouts and no walks during her seven innings on the mound. "I've been working on my change-up and trying to get a bigger stride," said Socci.

Shevchenko poised to leave Milan in summer

Shevchenko poised to leave Milan in summer
Andriy Shevchenko's agent admits it is highly unlikely the AC Milan striker will stay at the San Siro beyond the end of the season.

Flintoff set for Ashes after knee surgery

Flintoff set for Ashes after knee surgery
England expect all-rounder Andrew Flintoff to be available for the ICC World Twenty20 tournament and the Ashes after successful knee surgery.

Veteran Giggs awarded top player accolade

Veteran Giggs awarded top player accolade
Veteran Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs has been named as the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year -- the first time he has won the award in his glittering career.

Newcastle draw continues relegation form

Newcastle draw continues relegation form
Newcastle United's relegation form shows no signs of abating in the English Premier League after a 0-0 draw at home to Portsmouth leaves the side three points from safety with four games remaining.
Bryant, Lakers Close Out Jazz
LOS ANGELES -- Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers are moving on in the NBA playoffs _ as if that was really in doubt.

Scholastic scoreboard
resultsBoys golfHousatonic 186, Nonnewaug 193, Shepaug 199INDIVIDUALS: Housatonic: Will Parker 45, Jordan Lashones 45, Kyle Godburn 47, Garrett Foley 49, Kevin Cantele 56. Nonnewaug: Nick Manzella 44, John Suszynski 49, Sean Dinallo 50, Joe Amabile 50, Bryan Charette 53.

United defender Rafael signs new contract

United defender Rafael signs new contract
Manchester United right-back Rafael has signed a two-year contract extension to keep him at Old Trafford until June 2013.

Loeb makes it five from five in Argentina

Loeb makes it five from five in Argentina
World champion Sebastien Loeb clinched his fifth victory in the five rounds of the 2009 World Rally Championship so far with another impressive performance in the Rally of Argentina on Sunday.

Kelly ends title drought in Zurich Classic

Kelly ends title drought in Zurich Classic
Jerry Kelly grabbed his first US Tour victory for seven years by taking the Zurich Classic by a single stroke in dramatic fashion in New Orleans on Sunday.

High school schedule for Monday

Klinsmann dismissed as Bayern Munich coach
German champions Bayern Munich sack coach Jurgen Klinsmann and appointed the experienced Jupp Heynckes as his replacement for the final five games of the Bundesliga season.
News & Notes: Jerry Kelly Wins PGA Tour's Zurich Classic; Washington Freedom Wins First Match of Season
GOLF Jerry Kelly rallied with two birdies on the back nine yesterday to claim the $1.1 million payday at the Zurich Classic in Avondale, La.

High school schedule for Monday
TodayBaseballCSCAbbott Tech at Wilcox Tech, 3:45 SWCNewtown at Brookfield, 3:45 Stratford at Bethel, 3:45 Pomperaug at Immaculate, 3:45 New Fairfield at Joel Barlow, 3:45 New Milford at Notre Dame-Fairfield, 3:45 FCIACRidgefield at Danbury, 6 SoftballCSCWilcox Tech at Abbott Tech, 3:45 SWCLauralton Hall at Brookfield, 3:45 Pomperaug at Immaculate, 3:45 New Fairfield at Barlow, 3:45 New Milford at Notre Dame, 3:45 Newtown at Kolbe, 3:45 FCIACDanbury at Ridgefield, 4

Fed Cup champions Russia crash out to Italy

Fed Cup champions Russia crash out to Italy
Two-time defending champions Russia have crashed out at the semifinal stage of this year's Fed Cup after losing to Italy on the clay-courts of Castellaneta Marina.

Button victorious again in Bahrain heat

Button victorious again in Bahrain heat
Briton Jenson Button makes it three wins from four races to strengthen his early grip on the Formula One world championship with victory in a heat-sapping Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday.

Olympic champion Wanjiru wins in London

Olympic champion Wanjiru wins in London
Olympic champion Sammy Wanjiru of Kenya improves on last year's second place to win the London Marathon in a new course record and personal best time of two hours, five minutes and 10 seconds.

Kelly increases Zurich lead to three shots

Kelly increases Zurich lead to three shots
Jerry Kelly, playing his 200th event since his last US Tour win at the 2002 Western Open, opened up a three-stroke lead at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans with a third-round 69 on Saturday.

Man Utd stun Spurs to close on Premier glory

Man Utd stun Spurs to close on Premier glory
Manchester United stage a remarkable second half revival as a double apiece from Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo sees them come from two goals down to beat Tottenham Hotspur 5-2 and move three points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Blackhawks Start Fast, Rout Flames for Series Lead
Patrick Sharp and Kris Versteeg score 19 seconds apart in a three-goal first period and the Blackhawks grab control early to beat the Flames, 5-1, to take a 3-2 series lead.
Danbury boys reclaim O'Grady Relays crown
DANBURY -- Hardly a focal point of the high-powered Danbury High track program, Hatters senior Kurtis Driehuizen was a little surprised when he learned Wednesday that he'd be running in the 4x800 event at Saturday's O'Grady Relays. He certainly capitalized on the opportunity, though.

MotoGP washout leaves Rossi on pole

MotoGP washout leaves Rossi on pole
Defending world champion Valentino Rossi will start on pole for Sunday's MotoGP in Japan after Saturday's qualifying session was called off due to torrential rain.

Nadal heads for five straight in Barcelona

Nadal heads for five straight in Barcelona
Rafael Nadal remained on track for his fifth straight title on the clay of the Real club in Barcelona with a straight sets semifinal victory over Nikolay Davydenko on Saturday.

Leader Derksen slams 'unfair' conditions

Leader Derksen slams 'unfair' conditions
Robert-Jan Derksen retained his two-shot lead at the Ballantine's Championship after a controversial third round on Jeju Island with the Dutchman describing conditions as "unplayable and unfair."

Gonzalez prevents top four Barcelona sweep

Gonzalez prevents top four Barcelona sweep
Fifth seed Fernando Gonzalez has prevented a clean-sweep of the top four seeds reaching the Barcelona Open semifinals, after seeing off second-seeded Spaniard Fernando Verdasco in Friday's final quarterfinal.
James Lifts Cavs to 3-0 Series Lead Over Pistons
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- LeBron James huffed and puffed about being pushed and shoved by the Detroit Pistons.

Former UConn Rizzotti star a big hit at charity hoop tournament
DANBURY -- Seven year-old Danbury resident Heidi Silva posed for a picture with former University of Connecticut basketball star Jennifer Rizzotti, walked a few steps away, then went back to take another just to be sure it came out right. Smiling constantly behind a pair of glasses with thick white frames, holding a small notebook with Rizzotti's autograph in it, Silva certainly didn't mind having to do it twice.

Ducks Blank Sharks Again, Take 3-1 Series Lead

IOC 'deeply impressed' by London 2012 plans
International Olympic Committee officials have declared they are "deeply impressed" by plans for London 2012 and are confident of having an "excellent Games" in three years' time.
Ducks Blank Sharks Again, Take 3-1 Series Lead
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- In between Bobby Ryan's two electric goals in a 4-minute span of Game 4, Anaheim's remarkable rookie accidentally broke a big pane of glass between the benches.

Injured Flintoff ruled out of Windies series

Injured Flintoff ruled out of Windies series
England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has been ruled out of the forthcoming Test series against West Indies after contracting a knee injury playing in the Indian Premier League.

Unsung Wi holds early Zurich Open advantage

Unsung Wi holds early Zurich Open advantage
Unsung Korean Charlie Wi leads the field after the opening round of the Zurich Open of New Orleans on Thursday.

Boozer Leads Jazz Back Into Series

Inter lose semi despite second leg victory
Zlatan Ibrahimovic scores the only goal of the game as Inter Milan beat Sampdoria 1-0 in their Italian Cup semifinal second leg at the San Siro, but it is not enough to prevent the visitors from reaching the final 3-1 on aggregate.
Boozer Leads Jazz Back Into Series
SALT LAKE CITY -- Deron Williams hit a fadeaway jumper with 2.2 seconds left to give Utah an 88-86 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night, getting the Jazz back into the first-round playoff series.

Masuk's Fico sets perfect games record
MONROE -- The decision to wear No. 21 didn't hold too much significance for Rachele Fico when she arrived at Masuk four years ago. Thursday afternoon the No. 21 was plenty special to the senior pitching phenom. Hurling against Bethel, Fico struck out all 21 batters she faced in what was her national record-setting 21st career perfect game as Masuk won 9-0.

Brown and Fernandez-Castano lead in Korea

Brown and Fernandez-Castano lead in Korea
In-form Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano and Mark Brown shared the lead after the first round of the Ballantine's Championship at the Pinx Golf Club on Jeju Island.

Lel given all-clear to defend London title

Lel given all-clear to defend London title
Two-time defending champion Martin Lel is given all-clear to run in the London Marathon.

Brown and Fernandez-Castano lead in Korea

Brown and Fernandez-Castano lead in Korea
In-form Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano and Mark Brown shared the lead after the first round of the Ballantine's Championship at the Pinx Golf Club on Jeju Island.

Scholastic scoreboard
WednesdayBaseballSWCNewtown at Bethel, ppd. TBAFCIACDanbury at Trinity Catholic, ppd. to April 28, 4 p.m.SoftballSWCNewtown at Bethel, ppd. TBAFCIACTrinity Catholic at Danbury, ppd. to April 28, 4 p.m.Boys TennisSWCNotre Dame-Fairfield at Bethel, ppd.

Billups Leads Nuggets to 2-0 Lead Over Hornets

Keane returns to management at Ipswich
Former Manchester United star Roy Keane has made a surprise return to management at second-flight Ipswich just four months after walking away from Premier League Sunderland.
Billups Leads Nuggets to 2-0 Lead Over Hornets
DENVER -- Chauncey Billups hasn't had this much fun on the basketball court in Denver since he was winning two high school state titles back in the mid-1990s. Billups led the Nuggets to another blowout of the New Orleans Hornets on Wednesday night, scoring 31 points in Denver's 108-93 win.

'Refrigerator' Perry Hospitalized in S. Carolina

Injury hampers Lel's London Marathon hopes
Two-time defending champion Martin Lel is struggling with a hip injury ahead of Sunday's London Marathon, but still plans to run.
'Refrigerator' Perry Hospitalized in S. Carolina
CHICAGO -- Former Chicago Bears defensive lineman William "The Refrigerator" Perry is in serious condition at a South Carolina hospital, a spokeswoman said Tuesday.

Bethel tops undefeated Pomperaug

Frequent flyer Els needs lift-off in Korea
Three-time major winner Ernie Els has made the long flight to Jeju Island in South Korea as he bids to get his faltering career back on track with victory in this week's Ballantine's Championship.
Lakers Defeat Jazz to Take 2-0 Series Lead
LOS ANGELES -- Utah kept coming, relentlessly closing within six points time and again. The Lakers never let their lead get away.

Bethel tops undefeated Pomperaug
SOUTHBURY -- Bethel High's baseball team knocked three of its five hits and scored three runs in the top of the seventh inning, rallying to beat previously undefeated Pomperaug 4-2 on Tuesday at Pomperaug High in an South-West Conference battle.Joe Carillo recorded and RBI single and PJ Rinaldi blasted an RBI double in the final frame.

Wimbledon champions to get big pay rise

Wimbledon champions to get big pay rise
Rafael Nadal and Venus Williams are set to receive big pay rises if they successfully defend their Wimbledon singles titles this year.

Ireland's O'Connell to captain British Lions

Ireland's O'Connell to captain British Lions
Ireland's Paul O'Connell is named as captain of the British Lions for their summer tour of South Africa, coach Ian McGeechan announces on Tuesday. He will lead a 37-strong squad for three Tests against the world champions.

Liverpool missing Gerrard for Arsenal clash

Liverpool missing Gerrard for Arsenal clash
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been ruled out of their crunch Premier League clash against Arsenal at Anfield on Tuesday.

Newtown native Lyddy teams up with UConn

LPGA loses Corning Classic as downturn bites
Women's professional golf has lost another big tournament after the LPGA Tour announced that this year's Corning Classic will be the last.
Billups Leads Nuggets to Win Over Hornets
DENVER -- Chauncey Billups can't recall any of his other 117 playoff performances being as big as his 36-point outburst in front of his homies.

Newtown native Lyddy teams up with UConn
When college students spend their time traveling to an inner city to encourage elementary and middle school students to stay physically active, pay attention to nutrition while also concentrating on their studies, it can often have a lasting impact.When two of the most well known college students in Connecticut stop by a school in the state's capital city, it hammers that message home.

21 Polo Horses Die at Fla. Match; Cause Unknown

Wembley pitch will be dug up say FA
Wembley's controversial pitch will be dug up and replaced before the start of next season, the English Football Association say on Monday following criticism from losing semifinal managers Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger.
21 Polo Horses Die at Fla. Match; Cause Unknown
WELLINGTON, Fla. -- Seven more Venezuelan polo horses sickened just before a Florida tournament died overnight, raising the death toll to 21, and officials said Monday they may have been killed by some type of poison.

Gay celebrates record 10-shot Heritage win

Gay celebrates record 10-shot Heritage win
Brian Gay re-wrote the record books on Sunday when he cruised to his second US PGA Tour career victory, at Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

Around the Horn
Today's game to watch: Orioles at Red Sox, 11 a.m. (MASN)

Pakistan: Loss of World Cup a 'disaster'

Pakistan: Loss of World Cup a 'disaster'
On television, radio and in the streets, Pakistanis are calling the loss of their hosting of the 2011 World Cup, a decision made by the International Cricket Council on Friday, a national disaster.
Power Play Boosts Canucks Past Blues
ST. LOUIS -- Roberto Luongo carried the Vancouver Canucks for two games. Their special teams helped them take a 3-0 series lead against the St. Louis Blues.
Scholastic scoreboard
Girls tennisWooster 5, Chase Collegiate 2SINGLES: Chandler Johnson (W) def. Diana Larkin 10-5; Grace Hamilton (W) def. Katherine Lioni 10-5; Anita Shah (C) def. Dylan Herman 10-5; Nine Kogekar (W) def. Arianne Elmy 10-7.DOUBLES: Anne Ferguson/Jesse Haestad (C) def.

Strange swoops for China Open title

Strange swoops for China Open title
Australian Scott Strange snatched a one-stroke victory at the European Tour China Open in Beijing on Sunday when a late birdie burst saw him fire his best-of-the-week 68 for a 280 total.

Teens Wozniacki and Lisicki in showdown

Teens Wozniacki and Lisicki in showdown
Eighteen-year-old Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark and Germany's Sabine Lisicki, 19, stage a teenage showdown in the final on the Charleston tournament in South Carolina.

UConn football team has a need for Easley's speed

Vettel gives Red Bull first F1 win in China
German driver Sebastian Vettel wins a rain-hit Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai from Australian team-mate Mark Webber as Red Bull claim a one-two finish to record their first F1 triumph.
Yao has 24 points, Rockets beat Blazers 108-81
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Yao Ming scored 24 points, all in the first half, and the Houston Rockets spoiled Portland's back-in-the playoffs euphoria with a 108-81 victory over the Trail Blazers in the opener of their first-round series Saturday night.

UConn football team has a need for Easley's speed
EAST HARTFORD -- The quarterback question at UConn has pretty much been answered. Junior Zach Frazer appears ready to take over under center next season for the Huskies.The only question that remains is who will Frazer throw to?Wide receiver Marcus Easley made a strong case to be the answer during the annual Blue-White Game, catching 10 passes for 169 yards and two touchdowns.

Gay holds narrow halfway Heritage lead

Gay holds narrow halfway Heritage lead
Brian Gay leads a revitalized Todd Hamilton by a shot at the halfway stage of the Verizon Heritage at Hilton Head Island after a second round five-under-par 66.

Vettel ends Brawn GP's pole domination

Vettel ends Brawn GP's pole domination
Germany's Sebastian Vettel claims his first-ever pole for Red Bull as this season''s all-conquering Brawn GP team are relegated to fourth and fifth fastest in qualifying for the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai on Saturday.

Guerin's OT Goal on Two-Man PP Gives Penguins Win

Hiddink tells CNNI will leave Chelsea
Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink insists he will leave at the end of the season, regardless of whether they win a trophy.
Guerin's OT Goal on Two-Man PP Gives Penguins Win
PITTSBURGH -- Bill Guerin scored his second goal of the game after Pittsburgh went on a rare two-man advantage in overtime, and the Penguins went up two games in their first-round playoff series against the Philadelphia Flyers, winning 3-2 on Friday night.

Sound Tigers fall in playoff opener
UNIONDALE, N.Y. -- If this East Division semifinal series plays to history, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have six more games of this exhilaration and anguish to come.Then again, if the Bridgeport Sound Tigers can't stay out of the penalty box better than they did Friday in a 3-2 loss at Nassau Coliseum, it might not.

Blue Jays Keep Bashing as Halladay Beats Twins

World Cup matches moved out of Pakistan
The International Cricket Council have moved all 2011 World Cup matches out of Pakistan, due to the uncertain political situation in the country.
Blue Jays Keep Bashing as Halladay Beats Twins
MINNEOLIS -- After seven dominant innings, Roy Halladay humbly offered this: He just wanted to hold the lead.

Nadal and Murray reach Monaco last eight

Nadal and Murray reach Monaco last eight
Top seed Rafael Nadal and fourth seed Andy Murray remain on course for a semifinal clash at the Monte Carlo Masters after both players won their rain-affected third round matches on Friday.

Button tops timesheets in Shanghai practise

Button tops timesheets in Shanghai practise
World championship leader Jenson Button completes another impressive day for Brawn GP by topping the timesheets in Friday afternoon's free practise ahead of the Chinese Formula One Grand Prix in Shanghai.

Korean Choi takes two-shot China Open lead

Korean Choi takes two-shot China Open lead
Korean Choi Ho-sung produced four birdies over the back nine to establish a two-stroke lead after a second-round 67 in the Volvo China Open in Beijing.

Hamburg through despite second leg defeat

Hamburg through despite second leg defeat
Bundesliga title chasers Hamburg reach the last four of the UEFA Cup, where they will now face compatriots Werder Bremen, after defeating 10-man Manchester City 4-3 on aggregate despite losing the second leg of their quarterfinal 2-1.
Hiller Gets Shutout, Ducks Stun Top-seeded Sharks
SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Jonas Hiller coolly stopped every puck like a seasoned playoff veteran, showing all the postseason poise that the top-seeded San Jose Sharks still haven't found.

Danbury boys top Housy
FALLS VILLAGE -- Taylor Petty, Mike Gillotti and Dan Crean each had two goals and an assist to lead the Danbury High boys lacrosse team to an 11-2 victory over Housatonic Valley Regional on Thursday. Chris Crane added a goal and four assists and Bryan Sih, Daniel Grenier, Nick Briganti and Mike Pristouris all scored.

Champions rivals back on domestic cup agenda

Champions rivals back on domestic cup agenda
Managerial juggernauts Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger have put their Champions League semifinal collision on the backburner to concentrate on this weekend's FA Cup semifinals.

Champs rivals back on domestic cup agenda

Champs rivals back on domestic cup agenda
Managerial juggernauts Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger have put their Champions League semifinal collision on the backburner to concentrate on this weekend's FA Cup semifinals.

Austrian Brier climbs into China Open lead

Austrian Brier climbs into China Open lead
Austrian Markus Brier carded a five-under 67 for a one-shot lead over England's Nick Dougherty and Australian David McKenzie after the first round of the China Open in Beijing.

Checkered flag for McLaren chief Dennis

Checkered flag for McLaren chief Dennis
McLaren chairman Ron Dennis, right, ends his long-standing involvement in Formula One on Thursday when he announces a major restructuring of the British-based company.

Venus Williams battles for 'Family' win

Venus Williams battles for 'Family' win
Former winner Venus Williams was made to work hard before eclipsing Sania Mirza of India 6-1 3-6 6-2 at the $1 million Family Circle tournament at Charleston, South Carolina.
Canucks Beat Blues in Playoff Opener
VANCOUVER, British Columbia -- Daniel Sedin had a goal and an assist, and Roberto Luongo made 25 saves to help the Vancouver Canucks beat the St. Louis Blues 2-1 on Wednesday night in their playoff opener.

On deck
FRIDAY, RIL 17NM freshmen baseball at New Fairfield (3:45 p.m.)NM softball vs. Lauralton Hall at home (4 p.m.)Shepaug baseball at Litchfield (3:45 p.m.)Shepaug JV baseball at Litchfield (3:45 p.m.)Shepaug softball vs. Litchfield at home (3:45 p.

Flower confirmed as England cricket coach

Flower confirmed as England cricket coach
Former Zimbabwe Test star Andy Flower will take charge of the England cricket team ahead of the crucial Ashes series against Australia.

Fans pay homage to Hillsborough victims

Fans pay homage to Hillsborough victims
Thousands of Liverpool fans marked the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster in a special memorial service at Anfield on Wednesday. 96 fans died in a crush before an FA Cup semifinal between their team and Nottingham Forest on April 15, 1989.

Federer breezes through Monte Carlo opener

Federer breezes through Monte Carlo opener
Roger Federer began his clay court campaign with a straight sets win over Italian Andreas Seppi in the second round of the Monte Carlo Masters on Wednesday.

How Hillsborough triggered football revolution

How Hillsborough triggered football revolution
It was inevitable that a tragedy on the scale of Hillsborough, when 96 Liverpool fans were crushed to death during an FA Cup semifinal with Nottingham Forest, would have a transformative effect on English football.

Falcons clip short-handed Green Wave

Brawn GP win F1 legal battle over diffusers
Jenson Button's wins in the opening two races of the Formula One season will stand after motorsport chiefs rule on Wednesday that the aerodynamic diffuser fited to the rear of his Brawn GP car is legal.
Washington Nationals Starting Rotation Struggles
The Nationals' starters are struggling -- together they have a 9.29 ERA. Opponents are batting .35. None has left a game with a lead.

Falcons clip short-handed Green Wave
NEW MILFORD -- Drew Scharf and the rest of the Joel Barlow boys lacrosse team haven't forgotten the turbulent 2008 season.And they don't want to."It's motivation," said Scharf, a senior captain. "It was a tough year. A building year and it's been fuel for us this year.

America's Cup foes given ticking off
America's Cup holders Alinghi and challenger of record Oracle have been told to get over their differences in an open letter from some of sailing's most influential figures.
Immaculate High set to honor Hall of Fame inductees
Immaculate High School will celebrate its 14th Sports Hall of Fame Induction on April 25 at 7 p.m. at Anthony's Lake Club in Danbury. Dating back to 1989, the Hall will now have 56 members. The following will be honored this month: John Barata ('96), Jaimie Bierwirth Stewart ('97), Kenny Rausch ('91) and Kristi Setaro ('91), as well as veteran teacher and former coach Linda Sabel.

Chelsea rule out Hiddink staying on

Chelsea rule out Hiddink staying on
Chelsea moved to quash increased media speculation by saying that interim manager Guus Hiddink will not stay in charge next season despite recent fine results.

Gerrard winning battle to face Chelsea

Gerrard winning battle to face Chelsea
Inspirational captain Steven Gerrard is winning his battle to lead Liverpool into Tuesday's Champions League quarterfinal against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Benches Clear in Red Sox-Angels Game; Torii Hunter, Mike Scioscia Ejected

Woods and Mickelson light up final day
Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson ensured the 2009 Masters will live long in the memory with an epic head-to-head duel in the final round at Augusta National.
Benches Clear in Red Sox-Angels Game; Torii Hunter, Mike Scioscia Ejected
A high pitch from Josh Beckett to Bobby Abreu as time was being called touched off a bench-clearing incident in the first inning of the Los Angeles Angels' 5-4 victory over the visiting Boston Red Sox.

Barry penalty rescues draw for Aston Villa

Barry penalty rescues draw for Aston Villa
Aston Villa captain Gareth Barry converted a controversial penalty as Martin O'Neill's side recovered from 2-0 and 3-1 down to draw 3-3 with Everton and remain just ahead of their Premier League rivals rivals in fifth position in the table.

Hewitt through to rare clay-court final

Hewitt through to rare clay-court final
Former world number one Lleyton Hewitt is through to his first clay-court final in 10 years after a straight sets victory over Russian Evgeny Korolev at the US Men's Clay Court tournament in Houston, Texas.

Stoner takes pole for opening Qatar MotoGP

Stoner takes pole for opening Qatar MotoGP
Australian Casey Stoner continued to hold the upper hand over rival Valentino Rossi after taking pole position for the opening round of the MotoGP race in Qatar.

Perry and Cabrera leading after third round

Perry and Cabrera leading after third round
Argentina's Angel Cabrera (above) and veteran American Kenny Perry share the lead going into the final round of the Masters after the traditional "moving day" at Augusta failed to throw up any significant challenges from the chasing pack.

Ex-Canterbury football star set to shine at UConn

Perry and Cabrera lead Masters after third round
Former U.S. Open champion Angel Cabrera and American veteran Kenny Perry share the lead going into the final round of the U.S. Masters after the traditional "moving day" at Augusta National failed to throw up any significant challenges from the chasing pack.
Orioles Shut Out Rays, 6-0
Melvin Mora's third career grand slam and Jeremy Guthrie's six shutout innings lead the Orioles to a 6-0 victory over the Rays.
Ex-Canterbury football star set to shine at UConn
STORRS -- There is at least one area of his game where defensive end Trevardo Williams must improve if he is to get on the field for the UConn football team in the fall. That would be the area between his ears.Williams, a former Bridgeport Central football and track standout, enrolled at UConn in January and is in the middle of spring practice with the Huskies.

Inter blow two-goal lead in San Siro

Inter blow two-goal lead in San Siro
Serie A leaders Inter Milan suffered a setback in their Italian title defense as they wasted a two-goal lead to be held 2-2 at home by Palermo.

Hewitt reaches second ATP semi of 2009

Hewitt reaches second ATP semi of 2009
HOUSTON, Texas, April 10, 2009 (AFP)Australian Lleyton Hewitt reached the semi-finals of the US men's Clay Court Championship on Friday with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Spain's Guillermo Garcia-Lopez.

UConn hoop recruit likes what he sees

Campbell continues to blaze Augusta trail
American Chad Campbell produces the best front nine on Friday morning to open up a commanding five-stroke Masters lead before finally ending his second round at Augusta with a two-under-par 70.
Red Stars at Freedom
When: Today, 6 p.m. Where: Maryland SoccerPlex, Boyds.

UConn hoop recruit likes what he sees
STORRS -- Darius Smith committed to play basketball at UConn without ever having set foot on the Huskies' campus. Thankfully, when the 6-foot-2 guard arrived in Storrs Friday, he liked what he saw."Oh man, I love it," Smith said. "I was very anxious to see the campus, even though I had already made the decision to come here.

DiarraI learned nothing from Wenger

DiarraI learned nothing from Wenger
Real Madrid midfielder Lassana Diarra claims he learned "nothing" from Arsene Wenger during his unhappy four-and-a-half-month stint at Arsenal.

Villa confirms his commitment to Valencia

Villa confirms his commitment to Valencia
Valencia striker David Villa intends to see out his six-year contract with the Spanish Primera Liga club -- even if they fail to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Campbell cards 65 to lead Masters field

Campbell cards 65 to lead Masters field
American Chad Campbell holds a one-shot lead over compatriots Jim Furyk and Hunter Mahan after launching the greatest opening birdie salvo ever seen at the Masters in Augusta.

Masters: Campbell's roaring start gives him lead

Masters: Campbell's roaring start gives him lead
American Chad Campbell has a one-shot lead over countrymen Jim Furyk and Hunter Mahan after launching the best opening birdie salvo seen at the tournament.
Norman and Mize Remain Linked Together 22 Years After Famous Finish
Greg Norman and Larry Mize remain linked 22 years after their famous finish at the 1987 Masters as both turn in surprising opening rounds.

Vendel leads Newtown to girls lacrosse victory
CHESHIRE -- Senior Betsy Vendel scored seven goals, including two in the final two minutes to help lift the Newtown High girls lacrosse team to a 16-15 non-conference victroy over Cheshire on Thursday.Vendel also finished with three assists in the season opener.

Serena loses world No.1 ranking to Safina

Serena loses world No.1 ranking to Safina
Russia's Dinara Safina will go to the top of the world rankings in place of Serena Williams after the American's shock defeat at a tournament in Spain, the WTA announces.

Barca 'catastrophe' turns heat on Klinsmann

Barca 'catastrophe' turns heat on Klinsmann
Bayern Munich coach Juergen Klinsmann is under increased pressure after their 4-0 Champions League defeat to Barcelona -- described by club legend Franz Beckenbauer as a "catastrophe".

Gallas ruled out for remainder of season

Gallas ruled out for remainder of season
Arsenal's hopes of winning silverware suffered an injury setback with central defender William Gallas ruled out for the remainder of the season on Thursday.

Barca 'catastrophe' turns heat on Klinsmann

Barca 'catastrophe' turns heat on Klinsmann
Bayern Munich coach Juergen Klinsmann is under increased pressure after their 4-0 Champions League defeat to Barcelona -- described by club legend Franz Beckenbauer as a "catastrophe".

Milan's Kaka rules out move Real Madrid

Milan's Kaka rules out move Real Madrid
Brazilian superstar Kaka has again pledged his future to AC Milan and ruled out a summer move to Real Madrid.
Blue Jackets Clinch First Playoff Spot
CHICAGO -- Defenseman Fedor Tyutin scored the lone goal in the shootout and the Columbus Blue Jackets earned their first playoff berth in franchise history Wednesday night, beating the Chicago Blackhawks 4-3.

On deck
FRIDAY, RIL 10NM baseball vs. Abbott Tech in Danbury (3:45 p.m.)SATURDAY, RIL 11NM baseball vs. New Canaan at home (4 p.m.)NM boys' lacrosse vs. Hall at home (noon)NM JV boys' lacrosse vs. Hall at home (noon)NM girls' lacrosse vs. Joel Barlow in Redding (4 p.

Injured Azarenka to miss Family Circle Cup

Injured Azarenka to miss Family Circle Cup
Belarussian Victoria Azarenka has pulled out of next week's star-studded Family Circle Cup tournament in the United States with a shoulder injury.

Czechs sack coach Petr Rada and six players

Czechs sack coach Petr Rada and six players
Czech football is in turmoil after national coach Petr Rada was sacked on Wednesday and six star players given indefinite suspensions for a "breach of discipline."

Vaughan recalled to England cricket squad

Vaughan recalled to England cricket squad
Former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan has been recalled to their 25-performance squad and awarded a 12-month central contract.

Keppinger's 10th-inning Single Lifts Astros

Injured Azarenka to miss Family Circle Cup
Belarus star Victoria Azarenka has pulled out of next week's star-studded Family Circle Cup tournament in the United States with a shoulder injury.
Keppinger's 10th-inning Single Lifts Astros
HOUSTON -- Jeff Keppinger's broken-bat single in the 10th inning off closer Kevin Gregg gave the Houston Astros a 3-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday night.

UConn women win national title
ST. LOUIS -- This is the moment that Renee Montgomery had been dreaming about since she first picked up a ball at UConn four years ago. For so long, it seemed so elusive.The Huskies didn't have the right mix of players. Players with the same goals in mind, with matching work ethics and the desire to be the best team it could be each time they stepped on the floor together.

India denied by rain in NZ but win series

India denied by rain in NZ but win series
India clinched their first series win in New Zealand since 1968 on Tuesday when the third Test ended in a draw after the final day in Wellington was hit by bad weather.

Griffey Hits 8th Career Opening-Day HR
MINNEOLIS -- Wearing No. 24 on his back with Seattle stitched across his chest, Ken Griffey Jr. quickly got back into the swing of things with the Mariners.

UNC captures NCAA championship title
DETROITIt was over by the second jump ball. Michigan State's Delvon Roe and North Carolina's Deon Thompson had jumped the traditional big man-on-big man tip Monday, but Spartans guard Travis Walton and Tar Heels center Tyler Hansbrough fell to the floor wrestling for the ball three seconds later. With no possession gained to set the possession arrow, officials put the pair in the center circle. The 6-foot-2 Walton stared straight up to meet the 6-9 Hansbrough's gaze.
UConn women set to battle Louisville for national title
ST. LOUIS -- Seniors Kalana Greene and Renee Montgomery sat in their dorm room during their freshman year talking about what it would be like to win a national championship at UConn. They had each won at least one state championship in high school. They figured the success would immediately continue at the next level.

Jordan, Robinson, Stockton Among 5 Elected to Hall

Villa penalty double lifts Valencia Euro bid
Atletico Madrid crashed to a 4-2 home defeat at the hands of Osasuna on Sunday, denting their hopes of reaching the Primera Liga Champions League places.
Jordan, Robinson, Stockton Among 5 Elected to Hall
DETROIT -- It was only a matter of time, and now Michael Jordan is in the Hall of Fame. Jordan was elected to the class of 2009 Monday with David Robinson, John Stockton, Utah Jazz coach Jerry Sloan and Rutgers women's coach C. Vivian Stringer.

Tampa Bay Rays Enter Season with High Hopes

Casey masters America ahead of Augusta
Paul Casey launches his Masters challenge at Augusta this week from a career-high sixth in the world after a play-off victory over American JB Holmes at the Houston Open on Sunday.
Tampa Bay Rays Enter Season with High Hopes
The Rays have high expectations entering this season.

Debutant Macheda snatches win for United

Debutant Macheda snatches win for United
Italian teenager Federico Macheda enjoys a remarkable debut to as he curls home an injury-time winner that sends Manchester United back to the top of the Premier League with a thrilling 3-2 home victory over Aston Villa.

Huskies storm into NCAA championship game

Murray beats Djokovic to take Miami title
Andy Murray on Sunday became the first player to win three times on the ATP tour in 2009. The world number four defeated Novak Djokovic 6-2, 7-5 for the Sony Ericsson Open title. Murray's win closed the gap between him and the world number-three spot, which is currently owned by Djokovic.
News & Notes: Lincicome's Eagle Putt Seals LPGA Kraft Nabisco Win
GOLF Brittany Lincicome sank a six-foot eagle putt on No. 18 yesterday to upstage good friend Kristy McPherson and win the LPGA Kraft Nabisco Championship in Rancho Mirage, Calif., for her first victory in a major.

Huskies storm into NCAA championship game
ST. LOUIS -- Maya Moore couldn't quite put her finger on it. She just felt different this year being at the Final Four. The entire UConn team felt that way.The glare of the spotlight wasn't as bright. That simple joy of reaching the national semifinals after an extended layoff was no longer evident.

Pellissier hat-trick dents Juve's hopes

Pellissier hat-trick dents Juve's hopes
Juventus suffered a setback in their hopes of catching Inter Milan at the top of the Serie A table after they were held to a 3-3 home draw by improving Chievo on Sunday.

Unstoppable Loeb makes it four from four

Unstoppable Loeb makes it four from four
Sebastien Loeb's immaculate start to the World Rally Championship continued on Sunday with victory in the Rally of Portugal, his fourth win out of four events in 2009.

England back Lewsey to retire from rugby

England back Lewsey to retire from rugby
England international back Josh Lewsey will retire from professional rugby at the end of the season, his club Wasps have confirmed.

Tourists India closing-in on series victory

Tourists India closing-in on series victory
India continued to dominate on day three of the third and final Test at Wellington's Basin Reserve to close in on their first series win in New Zealand in over 40 years.

Washington Nationals Finalize Opening Day Roster

Eto'o goal keeps Barcelona on winning run
Barcelona kept up their relentless pace at the top of the Spanish Primera with a 1-0 win at Valladolid on Saturday.
Washington Nationals Finalize Opening Day Roster
The Washington Nationals finalized their 25-man Opening Day roster yesterday, opting for a rather unconventional combination that includes three catchers and three left-handed relievers.

Huskies' title dream falls short against Spartans
DETROIT -- There are world champion track stars who faced fewer hurdles than the UConn men's basketball team did this season. The Huskies had been clearing them with ease, but the one just in front of the finish line finally tripped them up.Facing a Michigan State team on a neutral court a stone's throw from its campus Saturday night, the Huskies suffered their first loss in the Final Four with an 82-73 setback in the national semifinals.

Zaheer puts India on top at Basin Reserve

Zaheer puts India on top at Basin Reserve
India are on course for a series-clinching victory in Wellington after skittling out New Zealand for 197 on the second day of the third and final Test.

Djokovic stuns Federer to reach ATP final

Djokovic stuns Federer to reach ATP final
Novak Djokovic rallied on Friday to stun Roger Federer and reach the finals of the ATP World Masters tournament in Key Biscayne, Florida. He will face Andy Murray in Sunday's final after Murray defeated Juan Martin del Potro.
Nash, Suns beat Kings 139-111, gain ground in West
PHOENIX -- Steve Nash had 29 points and nine assists, then sat out the fourth quarter Friday night and watched his Phoenix Suns gain ground in their last-ditch playoff drive by beating the Sacramento Kings 139-111.

News-Times baseball preview capsules
FCIACDANBURYHead Coach: Shaun Ratchford (25th season)Last season: 7-13, 6-12 FCIACKey Losses: CF/P Chris Fiddner; INF Josh Stanley; INF Jimmy Reinhardt; 1B Kevin Holmes; P Stephen Sirko. Key Players: 3B/P Anthony Mannuccia, Sr.; C Mike Beers, Sr.

Rangers strip Ferguson of club captaincy

Rangers strip Ferguson of club captaincy
Disgraced Scotland international Barry Ferguson has been stripped of the captaincy of his club side Rangers and could have played his last game for the Glasgow giants.

Liverpool star Gerrard denies affray charge

Liverpool star Gerrard denies affray charge
Steven Gerrard pleaded not guilty to a charge of affray on the same day he agreed a two-year extension to his current contract at Premier League Liverpool.

Man Utd short of strikers for Villa test

Man Utd short of strikers for Villa test
Manchester United go into Sunday's Premier League match against fifth-placed Aston Villa facing a striker shortage after Dimitar Berbatov was ruled out for a further two weeks.

'I'm no liar' says F1 champion Hamilton

'I'm no liar' says F1 champion Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton says the controversy over his disqualfication from the Australian Grand Prix had been the "worst time of my life" but claims he was told to lie to race stewards by McLaren sporting director Dave Ryan.

McGowan leads Estoril Open after 64

McGowan leads Estoril Open after 64
England's Ross McGowan claimed a two-shot lead after an opening round of seven-under 64 at the Estoril Open in Portugal on Thursday.
Twins' Scott Baker Will Miss Opening Day Start
Minnesota Twins right-hander Scott Baker is placed on the 15-day disabled list with shoulder stiffness and will miss his scheduled start on Opening Day.

Hatters clean up state, again
and Cody Raphael set a new state record en route to a first-place finish in 3:37.34, holding off Wilbur Cross and its All-State star Cas Loxsom.The Bubniak brothers, Joey and Danny, also earned first place finishes in the 1600-meter and 1000-meter.Daryl Baptiste added to the Hatters' point total with a second place showing in the long jump and a fourth place effort in the high jump while Robert Guider grabbed second in the shot put.

America's Cup holders lose court battle

America's Cup holders lose court battle
The future of the 33rd America's Cup remains uncertain after a New York Court of Appeals ruling Thursday supported the position of U.S. syndicate Oracle in their legal battle with holders Alinghi.

Ferdinand gives Man United fitness boost

Ferdinand gives Man United fitness boost
Central defender Rio Ferdinand looks likely to give Sir Alex Ferguson some good news by declaring himself fit for Manchester United's crucial Premier League clash with Aston Villa on Sunday.

Hamilton disqualified from Australian GP

Hamilton disqualified from Australian GP
World champion Lewis Hamilton is disqualified from third place in Sunday's Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne after presenting "misleading" evidence to stewards. Toyota's Jarno Trulli, who originally finished third, has been reinstated.

Date confirmed for Klitschko, Haye showdown

Date confirmed for Klitschko, Haye showdown
Briton David Haye has finally secured a shot at the world heavyweight title after signing a contract to take on Ukrainian champion Wladimir Klitschko.

Nationals Notebook: Hernández Will Open Season on Disabled List

Dismal Argentina are hit for six in Bolivia
Diego Maradona's Argentina side have suffered their worst-ever World Cup defeat -- and heaviest loss in over 60 years -- going down 6-1 to Bolivia at La Paz's high-altitude Hernando Siles' stadium.
Nationals Notebook: Hernández Will Open Season on Disabled List
Washington Nationals starting second baseman Anderson Hernández will open the regular season on the disabled list with an injured left hamstring, opening a spot in the lineup for veteran Ronnie Belliard.

Canterbury boys win double-OT thriller
NEW MILFORD -- Doug Bergner scored the winning goal with just 26 seconds remaining in the second overtime to lift the Canterbury boys lacrosse team to a season-opening 6-5 victory over Kent on Tuesday. Billy Bergner led Canterbury with four goals and an assist and goalie Sean Heaton made 24 saves.

Murray charges into Miami last eight

Murray charges into Miami last eight
Andy Murray charged into the quarterfinals of the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami with a 6-1 6-0 demolition of Serbian Victor Troicki in just 58 minutes.

Cavaliers win 13th straight, 79-73 over Pistons
CLEVELAND -- LeBron James refuses to let the Cavaliers lose.

Wily Mo Pena Released by Washington Nationals

Reports: Shearer set to manage Newcastle
Alan Shearer is to make his keenly awaited return to Newcastle United in a bid to save the Premiership club from being relegated, UK media have reported.
Wily Mo Pena Released by Washington Nationals
After refusing to accept a minor league assignment, Wily Mo Peña was released on Tuesday by the Washington Nationals, ending the outfielder's tenure with an organization that once viewed him as a centerpiece of its future.

All-Area Boys Swim Team 2009
Brian BollermanRIDGEFIELDSophomoreA versatile swimmer who excelled in the postseason for the Tigers, Bollerman, along with teammate Andrew Klutey, won all four events he entered in the Class L meet, where he was selected as the meet's top swimmer. He took individual firsts in the 200 IM and the 100 breast and swam a leg on the winning 200 medley and 400 freestyle relays.