Football: Houghton still a doubt

Ray Houghton is struggling to be fit for the Republic of Ireland's second leg World Cup play-off against Belgium on Saturday. The 35-year- old Reading midfielder again took no part in training yesterday.

The Tranmere striker David Kelly has a slight knee problem while the Everton defender Terry Phelan is suffering from a slight calf strain.

Belgium have lost two injured men, the midfielder Nico Van Kerckhoven and the defender Bart De Roover, while Marc Wilmots is doubtful.

Saudi Arabia gained a 1-0 win in Qatar yesterday to qualify for the World Cup finals. The Asian play-off on Sunday in Malaysia will be between Iran and Japan. The winners qualify, the losers play Australia for the last place at the finals.