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Deadspin | Rob Refsnyder ‘calming veteran presence’ as Mariners face A’s Apr 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners right fielder Rob Refsnyder (30) is congratulated by designated hitter Cal Raleigh (29) after hitting a solo home run during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images Even veteran major leaguers want to make a good first impression. But Rob Refsnyder had plenty on his mind this spring. After going hitless in his first 18 at-bats this season, Refsnyder homered on the first pitch of the bottom of the first inning from Texas’ MacKenzie Gore, sparking the host Seattle Mariners to a 5-2 series-clinching victory Sunday. J.P. Crawford and Randy Arozarena also went deep and Bryan Woo pitched seven strong innings as the Mariners won their second straight game. The Mariners are scheduled to open a three-game home series against the American League West rival Athletics on Monday. “You never want to be in a slump, especially early in the year, new team, new city,” said Refsnyder, 35. “So I’ve definitely been hard on myself. … “As an older guy, you try to preach having a routine and don’t worry about the results. But sometimes when it’s happening to you, it’s hard to think like that. But it keeps a good perspective on how long the year is and just the ups and downs of the season.” Not only is Refsnyder on his seventh team in 11 seasons, but he had to make a cross-country move this offseason with his pregnant wife Monica. She gave birth to the couple’s third child, a son named Ryan, last week, and Sunday’s game was Refsnyder’s first start since being activated from the paternity list. “You’re going through a really tough start of the year, but probably one of the most beautiful moments of my life is happening at the same time,” Refsnyder said. “So just to try to keep that perspective when you’re not getting results or hits has helped. But I’m very tired, so if I’m pretty monotone or dragging a little bit, hopefully you guys give me some grace.” Woo said Refsnyder has fit in seamlessly with a team that reached Game 7 of the AL Championship Series last fall. “He brings such a calming veteran presence …” Woo said. “So for him to kind of break through a little bit there, I know he’s been hard on himself, so that means a lot. Everybody was stoked to see that.” The Athletics remain tied with Texas atop the division despite losing three of their past four games, including a 7-4 defeat to the Chicago White Sox on Sunday in West Sacramento, Calif. Darell Hernaiz hit his first homer of the season for the A’s, who couldn’t overcome a 6-1 deficit. “Did like that we got the tying run to the plate in the ninth inning … we still continued to battle and fight,” A’s manager Mark Kotsay said. “Those are the signs of a team that has expectations to win games. Not a great series for us, but we’ve got a big one coming up … hopefully, the energy in Seattle is good.” Monday’s series opener is set to feature a pair of right-handers in the A’s J.T. Ginn (0-0, 3.31 ERA) and the Mariners’ Emerson Hancock (2-1, 2.28). Ginn will be making his third start since moving into the rotation. He allowed two runs on three hits over 9 1/3 innings in his first two. Ginn is 0-0 with a 3.00 ERA in one career start against Seattle in September 2024. Hancock, who is 0-0 with a 3.97 ERA in two previous starts against the A’s, took a no-decision Wednesday at San Diego as closer Andres Munoz blew a four-run lead in the ninth inning of a 7-6 defeat. Hancock went six innings and gave up two runs on four hits, with one walk and six strikeouts. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Rob #Refsnyder #calming #veteran #presence #Mariners #face

Deadspin | Rob Refsnyder ‘calming veteran presence’ as Mariners face A’s
Deadspin | Rob Refsnyder ‘calming veteran presence’ as Mariners face A’s Apr 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners right fielder Rob Refsnyder (30) is congratulated by designated hitter Cal Raleigh (29) after hitting a solo home run during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images Even veteran major leaguers want to make a good first impression. But Rob Refsnyder had plenty on his mind this spring. After going hitless in his first 18 at-bats this season, Refsnyder homered on the first pitch of the bottom of the first inning from Texas’ MacKenzie Gore, sparking the host Seattle Mariners to a 5-2 series-clinching victory Sunday. J.P. Crawford and Randy Arozarena also went deep and Bryan Woo pitched seven strong innings as the Mariners won their second straight game. The Mariners are scheduled to open a three-game home series against the American League West rival Athletics on Monday. “You never want to be in a slump, especially early in the year, new team, new city,” said Refsnyder, 35. “So I’ve definitely been hard on myself. … “As an older guy, you try to preach having a routine and don’t worry about the results. But sometimes when it’s happening to you, it’s hard to think like that. But it keeps a good perspective on how long the year is and just the ups and downs of the season.” Not only is Refsnyder on his seventh team in 11 seasons, but he had to make a cross-country move this offseason with his pregnant wife Monica. She gave birth to the couple’s third child, a son named Ryan, last week, and Sunday’s game was Refsnyder’s first start since being activated from the paternity list. “You’re going through a really tough start of the year, but probably one of the most beautiful moments of my life is happening at the same time,” Refsnyder said. “So just to try to keep that perspective when you’re not getting results or hits has helped. But I’m very tired, so if I’m pretty monotone or dragging a little bit, hopefully you guys give me some grace.” Woo said Refsnyder has fit in seamlessly with a team that reached Game 7 of the AL Championship Series last fall. “He brings such a calming veteran presence …” Woo said. “So for him to kind of break through a little bit there, I know he’s been hard on himself, so that means a lot. Everybody was stoked to see that.” The Athletics remain tied with Texas atop the division despite losing three of their past four games, including a 7-4 defeat to the Chicago White Sox on Sunday in West Sacramento, Calif. Darell Hernaiz hit his first homer of the season for the A’s, who couldn’t overcome a 6-1 deficit. “Did like that we got the tying run to the plate in the ninth inning … we still continued to battle and fight,” A’s manager Mark Kotsay said. “Those are the signs of a team that has expectations to win games. Not a great series for us, but we’ve got a big one coming up … hopefully, the energy in Seattle is good.” Monday’s series opener is set to feature a pair of right-handers in the A’s J.T. Ginn (0-0, 3.31 ERA) and the Mariners’ Emerson Hancock (2-1, 2.28). Ginn will be making his third start since moving into the rotation. He allowed two runs on three hits over 9 1/3 innings in his first two. Ginn is 0-0 with a 3.00 ERA in one career start against Seattle in September 2024. Hancock, who is 0-0 with a 3.97 ERA in two previous starts against the A’s, took a no-decision Wednesday at San Diego as closer Andres Munoz blew a four-run lead in the ninth inning of a 7-6 defeat. Hancock went six innings and gave up two runs on four hits, with one walk and six strikeouts. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Rob #Refsnyder #calming #veteran #presence #Mariners #faceApr 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners right fielder Rob Refsnyder (30) is congratulated by designated hitter Cal Raleigh (29) after hitting a solo home run during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Even veteran major leaguers want to make a good first impression.

But Rob Refsnyder had plenty on his mind this spring.

After going hitless in his first 18 at-bats this season, Refsnyder homered on the first pitch of the bottom of the first inning from Texas’ MacKenzie Gore, sparking the host Seattle Mariners to a 5-2 series-clinching victory Sunday.

J.P. Crawford and Randy Arozarena also went deep and Bryan Woo pitched seven strong innings as the Mariners won their second straight game.

The Mariners are scheduled to open a three-game home series against the American League West rival Athletics on Monday.

“You never want to be in a slump, especially early in the year, new team, new city,” said Refsnyder, 35. “So I’ve definitely been hard on myself. …

“As an older guy, you try to preach having a routine and don’t worry about the results. But sometimes when it’s happening to you, it’s hard to think like that. But it keeps a good perspective on how long the year is and just the ups and downs of the season.”

Not only is Refsnyder on his seventh team in 11 seasons, but he had to make a cross-country move this offseason with his pregnant wife Monica. She gave birth to the couple’s third child, a son named Ryan, last week, and Sunday’s game was Refsnyder’s first start since being activated from the paternity list.


“You’re going through a really tough start of the year, but probably one of the most beautiful moments of my life is happening at the same time,” Refsnyder said. “So just to try to keep that perspective when you’re not getting results or hits has helped. But I’m very tired, so if I’m pretty monotone or dragging a little bit, hopefully you guys give me some grace.”

Woo said Refsnyder has fit in seamlessly with a team that reached Game 7 of the AL Championship Series last fall.

“He brings such a calming veteran presence …” Woo said. “So for him to kind of break through a little bit there, I know he’s been hard on himself, so that means a lot. Everybody was stoked to see that.”

The Athletics remain tied with Texas atop the division despite losing three of their past four games, including a 7-4 defeat to the Chicago White Sox on Sunday in West Sacramento, Calif.

Darell Hernaiz hit his first homer of the season for the A’s, who couldn’t overcome a 6-1 deficit.

“Did like that we got the tying run to the plate in the ninth inning … we still continued to battle and fight,” A’s manager Mark Kotsay said. “Those are the signs of a team that has expectations to win games. Not a great series for us, but we’ve got a big one coming up … hopefully, the energy in Seattle is good.”

Monday’s series opener is set to feature a pair of right-handers in the A’s J.T. Ginn (0-0, 3.31 ERA) and the Mariners’ Emerson Hancock (2-1, 2.28).

Ginn will be making his third start since moving into the rotation. He allowed two runs on three hits over 9 1/3 innings in his first two. Ginn is 0-0 with a 3.00 ERA in one career start against Seattle in September 2024.

Hancock, who is 0-0 with a 3.97 ERA in two previous starts against the A’s, took a no-decision Wednesday at San Diego as closer Andres Munoz blew a four-run lead in the ninth inning of a 7-6 defeat. Hancock went six innings and gave up two runs on four hits, with one walk and six strikeouts.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Rob #Refsnyder #calming #veteran #presence #Mariners #face

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Apr 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners right fielder Rob Refsnyder (30) is congratulated by designated hitter Cal Raleigh (29) after hitting a solo home run during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Even veteran major leaguers want to make a good first impression.

But Rob Refsnyder had plenty on his mind this spring.

After going hitless in his first 18 at-bats this season, Refsnyder homered on the first pitch of the bottom of the first inning from Texas’ MacKenzie Gore, sparking the host Seattle Mariners to a 5-2 series-clinching victory Sunday.

J.P. Crawford and Randy Arozarena also went deep and Bryan Woo pitched seven strong innings as the Mariners won their second straight game.

The Mariners are scheduled to open a three-game home series against the American League West rival Athletics on Monday.

“You never want to be in a slump, especially early in the year, new team, new city,” said Refsnyder, 35. “So I’ve definitely been hard on myself. …

“As an older guy, you try to preach having a routine and don’t worry about the results. But sometimes when it’s happening to you, it’s hard to think like that. But it keeps a good perspective on how long the year is and just the ups and downs of the season.”

Not only is Refsnyder on his seventh team in 11 seasons, but he had to make a cross-country move this offseason with his pregnant wife Monica. She gave birth to the couple’s third child, a son named Ryan, last week, and Sunday’s game was Refsnyder’s first start since being activated from the paternity list.

“You’re going through a really tough start of the year, but probably one of the most beautiful moments of my life is happening at the same time,” Refsnyder said. “So just to try to keep that perspective when you’re not getting results or hits has helped. But I’m very tired, so if I’m pretty monotone or dragging a little bit, hopefully you guys give me some grace.”

Woo said Refsnyder has fit in seamlessly with a team that reached Game 7 of the AL Championship Series last fall.

“He brings such a calming veteran presence …” Woo said. “So for him to kind of break through a little bit there, I know he’s been hard on himself, so that means a lot. Everybody was stoked to see that.”

The Athletics remain tied with Texas atop the division despite losing three of their past four games, including a 7-4 defeat to the Chicago White Sox on Sunday in West Sacramento, Calif.

Darell Hernaiz hit his first homer of the season for the A’s, who couldn’t overcome a 6-1 deficit.

“Did like that we got the tying run to the plate in the ninth inning … we still continued to battle and fight,” A’s manager Mark Kotsay said. “Those are the signs of a team that has expectations to win games. Not a great series for us, but we’ve got a big one coming up … hopefully, the energy in Seattle is good.”

Monday’s series opener is set to feature a pair of right-handers in the A’s J.T. Ginn (0-0, 3.31 ERA) and the Mariners’ Emerson Hancock (2-1, 2.28).

Ginn will be making his third start since moving into the rotation. He allowed two runs on three hits over 9 1/3 innings in his first two. Ginn is 0-0 with a 3.00 ERA in one career start against Seattle in September 2024.

Hancock, who is 0-0 with a 3.97 ERA in two previous starts against the A’s, took a no-decision Wednesday at San Diego as closer Andres Munoz blew a four-run lead in the ninth inning of a 7-6 defeat. Hancock went six innings and gave up two runs on four hits, with one walk and six strikeouts.

–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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