Deadspin | Deep lineup has Cards confident going into series against Marlins Apr 12, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Cardinals right fielder Jordan Walker (18) reacts after hitting a single against the Boston Red Sox during the sixth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images The St. Louis Cardinals are having success — a season-best five-game win streak — and a big reason why is their offense. The Cardinals entered Sunday ranked third in the National League in homers and seventh in runs. They have scored at least five runs in five straight games. St. Louis, which is set to open a three-game series at the Miami Marlins on Monday night, believes in its balance. “From one to nine, nobody is an easy out,” Cardinals catcher/designated hitter Ivan Herrera said. “Everybody is putting together great at-bats, and we’re putting pressure on (opponents).” The biggest bat in the Cardinals lineup belongs to Jordan Walker, a 23-year-old who is off to a great start — eight homers, 16 RBIs, a .305 batting average and 1.013 OPS in 21 games. The Cardinals selected Walker in the first round (21st overall) of the 2020 MLB Draft out of Decatur High School in Georgia. He has struggled to meet expectations. Last year, for example, he played 111 games and produced just six homers and a .584 OPS. Listed at 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, Walker has finally tapped into his power and is hitting fewer ground balls. Due in part to a more upright batting stance, Walker has improved his launch angle from 10.3 degrees to 15.7 degrees. Aside from the St. Louis offense, the Cardinals also have a solid defense, led by rocket-armed shortstop Masyn Winn, who won a Gold Glove award last year. Other Cardinals defensive standouts are catcher Pedro Pages and center fielder Victor Scott II. Of course, run prevention starts with pitching, and the Cardinals on Monday will start right-hander Michael McGreevy (1-1, 2.49 ERA). For his brief career, McGreevy, 25, is 12-5 with a 3.72 ERA in 25 games (23 starts) since 2024. He has faced Miami only once, and that was last August, emerging from start with a win after tossing six innings of two-run ball. Miami will counter with right-hander Max Meyer (1-0, 4.12). The Marlins drafted Meyer in the first round (third overall) in 2020, but he has yet to live up to that hype. The former University of Minnesota star made his MLB debut in 2022, and in 29 career starts, the 27-year-old is 7-11 with a 5.13 ERA. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022 and missed the 2023 season. In his only appearance against the Cardinals, which came in 2024, Meyer allowed one run over six innings in a 6-1 victory. Meyer might not have made Miami’s rotation this year except that the team traded Edward Cabrera to the Cubs and Ryan Weathers to the Yankees. In addition, Braxton Garrett — who missed last season due to injuries — was sent to the minors for more rehab work. This season, the Marlins are 2-2 when starting Meyer, who has yet to last more than five innings in those appearances. The Marlins — who have lost seven of their past nine games — got good news on Sunday when left fielder Kyle Stowers was activated from the injury list after missing the first 21 games due to a hamstring injury. In his first plate appearance on Sunday, Stowers was hit on the right hand by a 102-mph fastball from Milwaukee starter Jacob Misiorowski. “First at-bat, 100 off the hand, I was certainly worried in the moment,” Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said of Stowers, who made his first All-Star Game last year, when he hit 25 homers in just 117 games. “But he was fine. “Great to have Kyle back. He lengthens our lineup.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Deep #lineup #Cards #confident #series #Marlins

Deadspin | Deep lineup has Cards confident going into series against Marlins
Deadspin | Deep lineup has Cards confident going into series against Marlins Apr 12, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Cardinals right fielder Jordan Walker (18) reacts after hitting a single against the Boston Red Sox during the sixth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images The St. Louis Cardinals are having success — a season-best five-game win streak — and a big reason why is their offense. The Cardinals entered Sunday ranked third in the National League in homers and seventh in runs. They have scored at least five runs in five straight games. St. Louis, which is set to open a three-game series at the Miami Marlins on Monday night, believes in its balance. “From one to nine, nobody is an easy out,” Cardinals catcher/designated hitter Ivan Herrera said. “Everybody is putting together great at-bats, and we’re putting pressure on (opponents).” The biggest bat in the Cardinals lineup belongs to Jordan Walker, a 23-year-old who is off to a great start — eight homers, 16 RBIs, a .305 batting average and 1.013 OPS in 21 games. The Cardinals selected Walker in the first round (21st overall) of the 2020 MLB Draft out of Decatur High School in Georgia. He has struggled to meet expectations. Last year, for example, he played 111 games and produced just six homers and a .584 OPS. Listed at 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, Walker has finally tapped into his power and is hitting fewer ground balls. Due in part to a more upright batting stance, Walker has improved his launch angle from 10.3 degrees to 15.7 degrees. Aside from the St. Louis offense, the Cardinals also have a solid defense, led by rocket-armed shortstop Masyn Winn, who won a Gold Glove award last year. Other Cardinals defensive standouts are catcher Pedro Pages and center fielder Victor Scott II. Of course, run prevention starts with pitching, and the Cardinals on Monday will start right-hander Michael McGreevy (1-1, 2.49 ERA). For his brief career, McGreevy, 25, is 12-5 with a 3.72 ERA in 25 games (23 starts) since 2024. He has faced Miami only once, and that was last August, emerging from start with a win after tossing six innings of two-run ball. Miami will counter with right-hander Max Meyer (1-0, 4.12). The Marlins drafted Meyer in the first round (third overall) in 2020, but he has yet to live up to that hype. The former University of Minnesota star made his MLB debut in 2022, and in 29 career starts, the 27-year-old is 7-11 with a 5.13 ERA. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022 and missed the 2023 season. In his only appearance against the Cardinals, which came in 2024, Meyer allowed one run over six innings in a 6-1 victory. Meyer might not have made Miami’s rotation this year except that the team traded Edward Cabrera to the Cubs and Ryan Weathers to the Yankees. In addition, Braxton Garrett — who missed last season due to injuries — was sent to the minors for more rehab work. This season, the Marlins are 2-2 when starting Meyer, who has yet to last more than five innings in those appearances. The Marlins — who have lost seven of their past nine games — got good news on Sunday when left fielder Kyle Stowers was activated from the injury list after missing the first 21 games due to a hamstring injury. In his first plate appearance on Sunday, Stowers was hit on the right hand by a 102-mph fastball from Milwaukee starter Jacob Misiorowski. “First at-bat, 100 off the hand, I was certainly worried in the moment,” Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said of Stowers, who made his first All-Star Game last year, when he hit 25 homers in just 117 games. “But he was fine. “Great to have Kyle back. He lengthens our lineup.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Deep #lineup #Cards #confident #series #MarlinsApr 12, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Cardinals right fielder Jordan Walker (18) reacts after hitting a single against the Boston Red Sox during the sixth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

The St. Louis Cardinals are having success — a season-best five-game win streak — and a big reason why is their offense.

The Cardinals entered Sunday ranked third in the National League in homers and seventh in runs. They have scored at least five runs in five straight games.

St. Louis, which is set to open a three-game series at the Miami Marlins on Monday night, believes in its balance.

“From one to nine, nobody is an easy out,” Cardinals catcher/designated hitter Ivan Herrera said. “Everybody is putting together great at-bats, and we’re putting pressure on (opponents).”

The biggest bat in the Cardinals lineup belongs to Jordan Walker, a 23-year-old who is off to a great start — eight homers, 16 RBIs, a .305 batting average and 1.013 OPS in 21 games.

The Cardinals selected Walker in the first round (21st overall) of the 2020 MLB Draft out of Decatur High School in Georgia.

He has struggled to meet expectations. Last year, for example, he played 111 games and produced just six homers and a .584 OPS.

Listed at 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, Walker has finally tapped into his power and is hitting fewer ground balls. Due in part to a more upright batting stance, Walker has improved his launch angle from 10.3 degrees to 15.7 degrees.

Aside from the St. Louis offense, the Cardinals also have a solid defense, led by rocket-armed shortstop Masyn Winn, who won a Gold Glove award last year. Other Cardinals defensive standouts are catcher Pedro Pages and center fielder Victor Scott II.

Of course, run prevention starts with pitching, and the Cardinals on Monday will start right-hander Michael McGreevy (1-1, 2.49 ERA).


For his brief career, McGreevy, 25, is 12-5 with a 3.72 ERA in 25 games (23 starts) since 2024. He has faced Miami only once, and that was last August, emerging from start with a win after tossing six innings of two-run ball.

Miami will counter with right-hander Max Meyer (1-0, 4.12).

The Marlins drafted Meyer in the first round (third overall) in 2020, but he has yet to live up to that hype. The former University of Minnesota star made his MLB debut in 2022, and in 29 career starts, the 27-year-old is 7-11 with a 5.13 ERA. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022 and missed the 2023 season.

In his only appearance against the Cardinals, which came in 2024, Meyer allowed one run over six innings in a 6-1 victory.

Meyer might not have made Miami’s rotation this year except that the team traded Edward Cabrera to the Cubs and Ryan Weathers to the Yankees. In addition, Braxton Garrett — who missed last season due to injuries — was sent to the minors for more rehab work.

This season, the Marlins are 2-2 when starting Meyer, who has yet to last more than five innings in those appearances.

The Marlins — who have lost seven of their past nine games — got good news on Sunday when left fielder Kyle Stowers was activated from the injury list after missing the first 21 games due to a hamstring injury.

In his first plate appearance on Sunday, Stowers was hit on the right hand by a 102-mph fastball from Milwaukee starter Jacob Misiorowski.

“First at-bat, 100 off the hand, I was certainly worried in the moment,” Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said of Stowers, who made his first All-Star Game last year, when he hit 25 homers in just 117 games. “But he was fine.

“Great to have Kyle back. He lengthens our lineup.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Deep #lineup #Cards #confident #series #Marlins

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Apr 12, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Cardinals right fielder Jordan Walker (18) reacts after hitting a single against the Boston Red Sox during the sixth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

The St. Louis Cardinals are having success — a season-best five-game win streak — and a big reason why is their offense.

The Cardinals entered Sunday ranked third in the National League in homers and seventh in runs. They have scored at least five runs in five straight games.

St. Louis, which is set to open a three-game series at the Miami Marlins on Monday night, believes in its balance.

“From one to nine, nobody is an easy out,” Cardinals catcher/designated hitter Ivan Herrera said. “Everybody is putting together great at-bats, and we’re putting pressure on (opponents).”

The biggest bat in the Cardinals lineup belongs to Jordan Walker, a 23-year-old who is off to a great start — eight homers, 16 RBIs, a .305 batting average and 1.013 OPS in 21 games.

The Cardinals selected Walker in the first round (21st overall) of the 2020 MLB Draft out of Decatur High School in Georgia.

He has struggled to meet expectations. Last year, for example, he played 111 games and produced just six homers and a .584 OPS.

Listed at 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, Walker has finally tapped into his power and is hitting fewer ground balls. Due in part to a more upright batting stance, Walker has improved his launch angle from 10.3 degrees to 15.7 degrees.

Aside from the St. Louis offense, the Cardinals also have a solid defense, led by rocket-armed shortstop Masyn Winn, who won a Gold Glove award last year. Other Cardinals defensive standouts are catcher Pedro Pages and center fielder Victor Scott II.

Of course, run prevention starts with pitching, and the Cardinals on Monday will start right-hander Michael McGreevy (1-1, 2.49 ERA).

For his brief career, McGreevy, 25, is 12-5 with a 3.72 ERA in 25 games (23 starts) since 2024. He has faced Miami only once, and that was last August, emerging from start with a win after tossing six innings of two-run ball.

Miami will counter with right-hander Max Meyer (1-0, 4.12).

The Marlins drafted Meyer in the first round (third overall) in 2020, but he has yet to live up to that hype. The former University of Minnesota star made his MLB debut in 2022, and in 29 career starts, the 27-year-old is 7-11 with a 5.13 ERA. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022 and missed the 2023 season.

In his only appearance against the Cardinals, which came in 2024, Meyer allowed one run over six innings in a 6-1 victory.

Meyer might not have made Miami’s rotation this year except that the team traded Edward Cabrera to the Cubs and Ryan Weathers to the Yankees. In addition, Braxton Garrett — who missed last season due to injuries — was sent to the minors for more rehab work.

This season, the Marlins are 2-2 when starting Meyer, who has yet to last more than five innings in those appearances.

The Marlins — who have lost seven of their past nine games — got good news on Sunday when left fielder Kyle Stowers was activated from the injury list after missing the first 21 games due to a hamstring injury.

In his first plate appearance on Sunday, Stowers was hit on the right hand by a 102-mph fastball from Milwaukee starter Jacob Misiorowski.

“First at-bat, 100 off the hand, I was certainly worried in the moment,” Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said of Stowers, who made his first All-Star Game last year, when he hit 25 homers in just 117 games. “But he was fine.

“Great to have Kyle back. He lengthens our lineup.”

–Field Level Media

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Deadspin | Sabastian Sawe shatters 2-hour barrier to win London Marathon Apr 23, 2023; London, UK; Participants of the London Marathon seen in the finish area after completing the race. Mandatory Credit: Peter van den Berg-Imagn Images Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe became the first runner to complete an official marathon in less than two hours as he broke the world record at the London Marathon on Sunday. On a calm, sunny morning, the 31-year-old finished the marathon in one hour, 59 minutes and 30 seconds. That crushed the previous record — set by Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum in the 2023 Chicago Marathon — by 65 seconds. “I am feeling good,” Sawe told BBC Sport. “I am happy. It is a day to remember for me.” Not only did Sawe blast through a psychological and physiological barrier akin to the four-minute mile, he set the pace for Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha to go under two hours as well. Kejelcha finished in 1:59.41. “We started the race well and approaching the end of the race, I was feeling strong and I remember (Kejelcha) was so competitive,” Sawe said. “I think he helped me a lot. Finally, reaching the finish line, I saw the time. I was so excited.” Pushed by Kejelcha, Sawe ran a reverse split to defend his London Marathon title. After reaching the halfway point in 1:00.29, he needed just 59:01 to complete his second 13.1 miles. Sawe wasn’t the only racer to set a world record in London on Sunday. Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa needed just 2:15.41 to break the tape, which placed her in the record books — again — for a marathon run only by women. Last year in London, she ran the marathon in a record 2:15:50. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Sabastian #Sawe #shatters #2hour #barrier #win #London #MarathonApr 23, 2023; London, UK; Participants of the London Marathon seen in the finish area after completing the race. Mandatory Credit: Peter van den Berg-Imagn Images

Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe became the first runner to complete an official marathon in less than two hours as he broke the world record at the London Marathon on Sunday.

On a calm, sunny morning, the 31-year-old finished the marathon in one hour, 59 minutes and 30 seconds. That crushed the previous record — set by Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum in the 2023 Chicago Marathon — by 65 seconds.

“I am feeling good,” Sawe told BBC Sport. “I am happy. It is a day to remember for me.”


Not only did Sawe blast through a psychological and physiological barrier akin to the four-minute mile, he set the pace for Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha to go under two hours as well. Kejelcha finished in 1:59.41.

“We started the race well and approaching the end of the race, I was feeling strong and I remember (Kejelcha) was so competitive,” Sawe said. “I think he helped me a lot. Finally, reaching the finish line, I saw the time. I was so excited.”

Pushed by Kejelcha, Sawe ran a reverse split to defend his London Marathon title. After reaching the halfway point in 1:00.29, he needed just 59:01 to complete his second 13.1 miles.

Sawe wasn’t the only racer to set a world record in London on Sunday. Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa needed just 2:15.41 to break the tape, which placed her in the record books — again — for a marathon run only by women. Last year in London, she ran the marathon in a record 2:15:50.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Sabastian #Sawe #shatters #2hour #barrier #win #London #Marathon">Deadspin | Sabastian Sawe shatters 2-hour barrier to win London Marathon Apr 23, 2023; London, UK; Participants of the London Marathon seen in the finish area after completing the race. Mandatory Credit: Peter van den Berg-Imagn Images Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe became the first runner to complete an official marathon in less than two hours as he broke the world record at the London Marathon on Sunday. On a calm, sunny morning, the 31-year-old finished the marathon in one hour, 59 minutes and 30 seconds. That crushed the previous record — set by Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum in the 2023 Chicago Marathon — by 65 seconds. “I am feeling good,” Sawe told BBC Sport. “I am happy. It is a day to remember for me.” Not only did Sawe blast through a psychological and physiological barrier akin to the four-minute mile, he set the pace for Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha to go under two hours as well. Kejelcha finished in 1:59.41. “We started the race well and approaching the end of the race, I was feeling strong and I remember (Kejelcha) was so competitive,” Sawe said. “I think he helped me a lot. Finally, reaching the finish line, I saw the time. I was so excited.” Pushed by Kejelcha, Sawe ran a reverse split to defend his London Marathon title. After reaching the halfway point in 1:00.29, he needed just 59:01 to complete his second 13.1 miles. Sawe wasn’t the only racer to set a world record in London on Sunday. Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa needed just 2:15.41 to break the tape, which placed her in the record books — again — for a marathon run only by women. Last year in London, she ran the marathon in a record 2:15:50. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Sabastian #Sawe #shatters #2hour #barrier #win #London #Marathon

Shillong Lajong FC was held to a goalless draw by a resolute Dempo SC in its Indian Football League Championship Phase fixture at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.

The result kept Shillong second in the table with 18 points, seven behind leader Diamond Harbour FC, while Dempo remained sixth with 10 points.

Shillong named an unchanged starting XI from its last match, while Dempo made two changes, with Sebastián Gutiérrez Atehortua and Vieri Colaco replacing Ariston Costa and Richmond Kwasi Owusu.

Shillong imposed itself from the outset, applying immediate pressure on Dempo straight from kick-off. Inside the opening minute, a long ball into the box created an early opening as Phrangki Buam rose to meet it, but the defence recovered in time to clear.

The host sustained a high tempo in the early exchanges, unsettling Dempo’s backline before the visitor slowed the pace and attempted to play out from the back.

Both sides showed a clear inclination to build through the flanks, with Buam and Ephraim Lalremtluanga stretching play for Shillong, while Saiesh Bagkar and Kapil Hoble looked to supply Gutiérrez and Marcus Leric Jr Joseph centrally.

Shillong’s sharpness in possession, aided by strong home support, translated into early control. In the eighth minute, Lamlallian found space in the final third and struck at goal, but Aubin Kouakou positioned himself well to block.

Dempo’s attempts to construct from deep led to repeated turnovers under Shillong’s high press, while Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah tested Ashish Sibi with a skidding effort from distance that the goalkeeper handled securely.

ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid’s Barrios to miss Arsenal Champions League semifinal tie with thigh injury

The clearest opening of the first half came in the 34th minute when Kouakou lost possession, allowing Sana to break through on goal. Jose Luis Moreno Pena recovered with a well-timed sliding challenge to prevent the shot.

Shillong continued to threaten. In the 38th minute, Damaitphang Lyngdoh delivered a low cross across the six-yard area that evaded any finishing touch. Five minutes later, Buam’s shot from a tight angle was parried by Sibi before Lyngdoh struck the woodwork from distance.

Shillong resumed on the front foot after the interval, but Dempo produced a moment of quality in the 58th minute as Gutierrez connected cleanly with a first-time volley from a tight angle, forcing Ranit Sarkar into a sharp save.

The visitor came close again in the 67th minute from a set-piece, but Sarkar reacted well before Joseph fired over the bar from the rebound.

Shillong pushed hard for a breakthrough and came agonisingly close in stoppage time, when substitute Abelson Jachi forced a spill from Sibi and Kenstar Kharshong lifted the rebound over the goalkeeper, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.

Shillong’s inability to convert dominance into goals proved decisive. Despite registering 20 shots, including five on target, it could not breach a disciplined Dempo defence.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#IFL #Dempo #frustrates #Shillong #Lajong #goalless #Championship #Phase #clash">IFL 2025-26: Dempo frustrates Shillong Lajong in goalless Championship Phase clash Shillong Lajong FC was held to a goalless draw by a resolute Dempo SC in its Indian Football League Championship Phase fixture at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.The result kept Shillong second in the table with 18 points, seven behind leader Diamond Harbour FC, while Dempo remained sixth with 10 points.Shillong named an unchanged starting XI from its last match, while Dempo made two changes, with Sebastián Gutiérrez Atehortua and Vieri Colaco replacing Ariston Costa and Richmond Kwasi Owusu.Shillong imposed itself from the outset, applying immediate pressure on Dempo straight from kick-off. Inside the opening minute, a long ball into the box created an early opening as Phrangki Buam rose to meet it, but the defence recovered in time to clear.The host sustained a high tempo in the early exchanges, unsettling Dempo’s backline before the visitor slowed the pace and attempted to play out from the back.Both sides showed a clear inclination to build through the flanks, with Buam and Ephraim Lalremtluanga stretching play for Shillong, while Saiesh Bagkar and Kapil Hoble looked to supply Gutiérrez and Marcus Leric Jr Joseph centrally.Shillong’s sharpness in possession, aided by strong home support, translated into early control. In the eighth minute, Lamlallian found space in the final third and struck at goal, but Aubin Kouakou positioned himself well to block.Dempo’s attempts to construct from deep led to repeated turnovers under Shillong’s high press, while Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah tested Ashish Sibi with a skidding effort from distance that the goalkeeper handled securely.ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid’s Barrios to miss Arsenal Champions League semifinal tie with thigh injuryThe clearest opening of the first half came in the 34th minute when Kouakou lost possession, allowing Sana to break through on goal. Jose Luis Moreno Pena recovered with a well-timed sliding challenge to prevent the shot.Shillong continued to threaten. In the 38th minute, Damaitphang Lyngdoh delivered a low cross across the six-yard area that evaded any finishing touch. Five minutes later, Buam’s shot from a tight angle was parried by Sibi before Lyngdoh struck the woodwork from distance.Shillong resumed on the front foot after the interval, but Dempo produced a moment of quality in the 58th minute as Gutierrez connected cleanly with a first-time volley from a tight angle, forcing Ranit Sarkar into a sharp save.The visitor came close again in the 67th minute from a set-piece, but Sarkar reacted well before Joseph fired over the bar from the rebound.Shillong pushed hard for a breakthrough and came agonisingly close in stoppage time, when substitute Abelson Jachi forced a spill from Sibi and Kenstar Kharshong lifted the rebound over the goalkeeper, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.Shillong’s inability to convert dominance into goals proved decisive. Despite registering 20 shots, including five on target, it could not breach a disciplined Dempo defence.Published on Apr 26, 2026 #IFL #Dempo #frustrates #Shillong #Lajong #goalless #Championship #Phase #clash

Atletico Madrid’s Barrios to miss Arsenal Champions League semifinal tie with thigh injury

The clearest opening of the first half came in the 34th minute when Kouakou lost possession, allowing Sana to break through on goal. Jose Luis Moreno Pena recovered with a well-timed sliding challenge to prevent the shot.

Shillong continued to threaten. In the 38th minute, Damaitphang Lyngdoh delivered a low cross across the six-yard area that evaded any finishing touch. Five minutes later, Buam’s shot from a tight angle was parried by Sibi before Lyngdoh struck the woodwork from distance.

Shillong resumed on the front foot after the interval, but Dempo produced a moment of quality in the 58th minute as Gutierrez connected cleanly with a first-time volley from a tight angle, forcing Ranit Sarkar into a sharp save.

The visitor came close again in the 67th minute from a set-piece, but Sarkar reacted well before Joseph fired over the bar from the rebound.

Shillong pushed hard for a breakthrough and came agonisingly close in stoppage time, when substitute Abelson Jachi forced a spill from Sibi and Kenstar Kharshong lifted the rebound over the goalkeeper, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.

Shillong’s inability to convert dominance into goals proved decisive. Despite registering 20 shots, including five on target, it could not breach a disciplined Dempo defence.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#IFL #Dempo #frustrates #Shillong #Lajong #goalless #Championship #Phase #clash">IFL 2025-26: Dempo frustrates Shillong Lajong in goalless Championship Phase clash

Shillong Lajong FC was held to a goalless draw by a resolute Dempo SC in its Indian Football League Championship Phase fixture at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.

The result kept Shillong second in the table with 18 points, seven behind leader Diamond Harbour FC, while Dempo remained sixth with 10 points.

Shillong named an unchanged starting XI from its last match, while Dempo made two changes, with Sebastián Gutiérrez Atehortua and Vieri Colaco replacing Ariston Costa and Richmond Kwasi Owusu.

Shillong imposed itself from the outset, applying immediate pressure on Dempo straight from kick-off. Inside the opening minute, a long ball into the box created an early opening as Phrangki Buam rose to meet it, but the defence recovered in time to clear.

The host sustained a high tempo in the early exchanges, unsettling Dempo’s backline before the visitor slowed the pace and attempted to play out from the back.

Both sides showed a clear inclination to build through the flanks, with Buam and Ephraim Lalremtluanga stretching play for Shillong, while Saiesh Bagkar and Kapil Hoble looked to supply Gutiérrez and Marcus Leric Jr Joseph centrally.

Shillong’s sharpness in possession, aided by strong home support, translated into early control. In the eighth minute, Lamlallian found space in the final third and struck at goal, but Aubin Kouakou positioned himself well to block.

Dempo’s attempts to construct from deep led to repeated turnovers under Shillong’s high press, while Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah tested Ashish Sibi with a skidding effort from distance that the goalkeeper handled securely.

ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid’s Barrios to miss Arsenal Champions League semifinal tie with thigh injury

The clearest opening of the first half came in the 34th minute when Kouakou lost possession, allowing Sana to break through on goal. Jose Luis Moreno Pena recovered with a well-timed sliding challenge to prevent the shot.

Shillong continued to threaten. In the 38th minute, Damaitphang Lyngdoh delivered a low cross across the six-yard area that evaded any finishing touch. Five minutes later, Buam’s shot from a tight angle was parried by Sibi before Lyngdoh struck the woodwork from distance.

Shillong resumed on the front foot after the interval, but Dempo produced a moment of quality in the 58th minute as Gutierrez connected cleanly with a first-time volley from a tight angle, forcing Ranit Sarkar into a sharp save.

The visitor came close again in the 67th minute from a set-piece, but Sarkar reacted well before Joseph fired over the bar from the rebound.

Shillong pushed hard for a breakthrough and came agonisingly close in stoppage time, when substitute Abelson Jachi forced a spill from Sibi and Kenstar Kharshong lifted the rebound over the goalkeeper, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.

Shillong’s inability to convert dominance into goals proved decisive. Despite registering 20 shots, including five on target, it could not breach a disciplined Dempo defence.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#IFL #Dempo #frustrates #Shillong #Lajong #goalless #Championship #Phase #clash
Deadspin | Dodgers, Cubs close series with potential pitching duel Apr 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Justin Wrobleski (70) throws a pitch against the New York Mets during the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images A resurgent Los Angeles Dodgers’ offense will take on the visiting Chicago Cubs in the rubber match of a three-game series on Sunday afternoon. The Dodgers snapped the Cubs’ 10-game winning streak with a 12-4 win on Saturday night. Teoscar Hernandez was 2-for-3 with two runs and two RBIs as Los Angeles racked up 14 hits. Hitless in his previous three games, Hernandez lined a two-RBI single up the middle in a six-run fourth inning. “I haven’t been on base for the last couple games, but it is OK, everyone goes through that,” he said. “Hopefully I can keep up doing that and be consistent with it.” Shohei Ohtani also snapped an 0-for-12 skid over his previous three games when he led off the game with an opposite-field single. Andy Pages, Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland posted two-hit games as the Dodgers scored in double digits for a major league-leading fifth time this season. The Cubs have scored in double figures in four games. Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts said Max Muncy will be out on Sunday. The Dodgers third baseman felt sick yet still hit his ninth home run of the season, a two-run shot in the third. “Muncy wasn’t feeling well,” Roberts said. “We talked and said to him, give us what you got, three at-bats. That’s what we did and felt good about getting him three at-bats. Max will be down tomorrow and be back in there on Monday.” Left-hander Justin Wrobleski (3-0, 1.88 ERA) is slated to start for the Dodgers. He covered seven innings in his most recent start and earned the decision in a 12-3 road win over the Colorado Rockies on Monday, yielding one run on eight hits with three strikeouts. In his past three starts — all wins– he has allowed only two runs in a combined 20 innings. He never has faced the Cubs. “At the end of the day I am going out there and doing the same thing every time,” Wrobleski said. “That’s trying to fill the zone, create contact and see what happens.” Chicago’s scheduled starter is Shota Imanaga (2-1, 2.17), who earned the win when he surrendered one run on three hits over seven innings in his last start, a 7-4 home win against the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday. The lefty is 1-0 with a 1.64 ERA on the road this season. In four career starts against Los Angeles, Imanaga has a 1-0 record with a 3.48 ERA. “I come to the field every day, whether it’s a start day or not, with the same responsibility,” Imanaga said. “I know if someone gets injured I can help cover them. We have a very tight circle with full support.” He has a stellar defense in the field — the Cubs are ranked No. 1 on FanGraphs with 17 defensive runs saved — and knows he can pitch to contact. “It helps with my confidence as well, knowing that behind me, the Cubs’ defense is the best of all 30 teams,” Imanaga said. “If I can control and avoid damage and extra-base hits, I know they are going to get outs. So it’s a big confidence booster.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Dodgers #Cubs #close #series #potential #pitching #duelApr 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Justin Wrobleski (70) throws a pitch against the New York Mets during the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

A resurgent Los Angeles Dodgers’ offense will take on the visiting Chicago Cubs in the rubber match of a three-game series on Sunday afternoon.

The Dodgers snapped the Cubs’ 10-game winning streak with a 12-4 win on Saturday night.

Teoscar Hernandez was 2-for-3 with two runs and two RBIs as Los Angeles racked up 14 hits. Hitless in his previous three games, Hernandez lined a two-RBI single up the middle in a six-run fourth inning.

“I haven’t been on base for the last couple games, but it is OK, everyone goes through that,” he said. “Hopefully I can keep up doing that and be consistent with it.”

Shohei Ohtani also snapped an 0-for-12 skid over his previous three games when he led off the game with an opposite-field single.

Andy Pages, Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland posted two-hit games as the Dodgers scored in double digits for a major league-leading fifth time this season. The Cubs have scored in double figures in four games.

Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts said Max Muncy will be out on Sunday. The Dodgers third baseman felt sick yet still hit his ninth home run of the season, a two-run shot in the third.

“Muncy wasn’t feeling well,” Roberts said. “We talked and said to him, give us what you got, three at-bats. That’s what we did and felt good about getting him three at-bats. Max will be down tomorrow and be back in there on Monday.”


Left-hander Justin Wrobleski (3-0, 1.88 ERA) is slated to start for the Dodgers. He covered seven innings in his most recent start and earned the decision in a 12-3 road win over the Colorado Rockies on Monday, yielding one run on eight hits with three strikeouts.

In his past three starts — all wins– he has allowed only two runs in a combined 20 innings. He never has faced the Cubs.

“At the end of the day I am going out there and doing the same thing every time,” Wrobleski said. “That’s trying to fill the zone, create contact and see what happens.”

Chicago’s scheduled starter is Shota Imanaga (2-1, 2.17), who earned the win when he surrendered one run on three hits over seven innings in his last start, a 7-4 home win against the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday.

The lefty is 1-0 with a 1.64 ERA on the road this season. In four career starts against Los Angeles, Imanaga has a 1-0 record with a 3.48 ERA.

“I come to the field every day, whether it’s a start day or not, with the same responsibility,” Imanaga said. “I know if someone gets injured I can help cover them. We have a very tight circle with full support.”

He has a stellar defense in the field — the Cubs are ranked No. 1 on FanGraphs with 17 defensive runs saved — and knows he can pitch to contact.

“It helps with my confidence as well, knowing that behind me, the Cubs’ defense is the best of all 30 teams,” Imanaga said. “If I can control and avoid damage and extra-base hits, I know they are going to get outs. So it’s a big confidence booster.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Dodgers #Cubs #close #series #potential #pitching #duel">Deadspin | Dodgers, Cubs close series with potential pitching duel Apr 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Justin Wrobleski (70) throws a pitch against the New York Mets during the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images A resurgent Los Angeles Dodgers’ offense will take on the visiting Chicago Cubs in the rubber match of a three-game series on Sunday afternoon. The Dodgers snapped the Cubs’ 10-game winning streak with a 12-4 win on Saturday night. Teoscar Hernandez was 2-for-3 with two runs and two RBIs as Los Angeles racked up 14 hits. Hitless in his previous three games, Hernandez lined a two-RBI single up the middle in a six-run fourth inning. “I haven’t been on base for the last couple games, but it is OK, everyone goes through that,” he said. “Hopefully I can keep up doing that and be consistent with it.” Shohei Ohtani also snapped an 0-for-12 skid over his previous three games when he led off the game with an opposite-field single. Andy Pages, Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland posted two-hit games as the Dodgers scored in double digits for a major league-leading fifth time this season. The Cubs have scored in double figures in four games. Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts said Max Muncy will be out on Sunday. The Dodgers third baseman felt sick yet still hit his ninth home run of the season, a two-run shot in the third. “Muncy wasn’t feeling well,” Roberts said. “We talked and said to him, give us what you got, three at-bats. That’s what we did and felt good about getting him three at-bats. Max will be down tomorrow and be back in there on Monday.” Left-hander Justin Wrobleski (3-0, 1.88 ERA) is slated to start for the Dodgers. He covered seven innings in his most recent start and earned the decision in a 12-3 road win over the Colorado Rockies on Monday, yielding one run on eight hits with three strikeouts. In his past three starts — all wins– he has allowed only two runs in a combined 20 innings. He never has faced the Cubs. “At the end of the day I am going out there and doing the same thing every time,” Wrobleski said. “That’s trying to fill the zone, create contact and see what happens.” Chicago’s scheduled starter is Shota Imanaga (2-1, 2.17), who earned the win when he surrendered one run on three hits over seven innings in his last start, a 7-4 home win against the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday. The lefty is 1-0 with a 1.64 ERA on the road this season. In four career starts against Los Angeles, Imanaga has a 1-0 record with a 3.48 ERA. “I come to the field every day, whether it’s a start day or not, with the same responsibility,” Imanaga said. “I know if someone gets injured I can help cover them. We have a very tight circle with full support.” He has a stellar defense in the field — the Cubs are ranked No. 1 on FanGraphs with 17 defensive runs saved — and knows he can pitch to contact. “It helps with my confidence as well, knowing that behind me, the Cubs’ defense is the best of all 30 teams,” Imanaga said. “If I can control and avoid damage and extra-base hits, I know they are going to get outs. So it’s a big confidence booster.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Dodgers #Cubs #close #series #potential #pitching #duel

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