The Sports Matrix: Monday 8 August 2011

Miller spoils Big Sam’s Boleyn bow

Kenny Miller scored a late winner as Cardiff beat West Ham 1-0 at Upton Park yesterday. The hosts, under the guidance of new manager Sam Allardyce, had the best of the chances but Miller’s stoppage-time turn and shot secured the points for the visitors. MORE

Moody plays down World Cup fears

England captain Lewis Moody has played down his injury-enforced withdrawal from Saturday’s 23-19 victory over Wales as “precautionary”, despite suspicions that the injury may cause him to miss next month’s World Cup in New Zealand. MORE

Late Sinfield kick puts Leeds in final

Kevin Sinfield kicked a penalty four minutes into extra time to help Leeds beat Castleford 10-8 and earn a place in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley. They will face Wigan, who defeated St Helens 18-12 on Saturday. MORE

Capello on course for Wenger dispute

Fabio Capello’s plans to start Jack Wilshere in Wednesday’s friendly with the Netherlands may set him on a collision course with Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger. Wilshere is included in England’s squad despite suffering an ankle complaint a week ago. MORE

Kearney relief after comeback

One positive for Ireland from their 10-6 defeat at Scotland on Saturday was the return of Rob Kearney from a serious knee injury. “It’s a huge relief to be playing again,” he admitted. “From a personal perspective it was good to get through it.” MORE

Lukaku excited by ‘team of winners’

New Chelsea signing Romelu Lukaku says he is excited about joining his “dream team” after a move from Anderlecht was completed over the weekend. “I am entering a team full of experienced guys and winners,” the 18-year-old striker said.

Zaheer heads home to add to India woes

India’s injury problems continued with the news that bowler Zaheer Khan will miss the remainder of the tour of England because of the hamstring strain he suffered in the first Test. He also requires surgery on an ankle injury and may be out for 14 to 16 weeks. MORE

Opinion: James Lawton

United remain what they were while winning their 19th title in a less than vintage season: a team shorn of classic strengths but still possessing, to a greater degree than any of their rivals, a remarkable competitive edge. MORE

Nani double seals comeback to put City in their place

Manchester United recovered from a two-goal deficit to defeat neighbours Manchester City 3-2 at Wembley and lift the Community Shield, thanks in no small part to a double from Nani. After going behind to goals from Joleon Lescott and Edin Dzeko before the interval, Sir Alex Ferguson’s side pulled one back when Chris Smalling converted Ashley Young’s free-kick before Nani equalised six minutes later. The Portuguese midfielder added his second deep into stoppage time, rounding Joe Hart after a breakaway move. “I think today was a footballing lesson,” Wayne Rooney tweeted after the game. “Great win for the champions.” MORE

Ferguson’s pride in youth showing

Sir Alex Ferguson claimed victory over Manchester City was vindication over those who questioned his belief in youth, as a young United side prevailed at Wembley. “This confirms what I thought,” the Scot said. “These young players are the future.” MORE

Team GB hopefuls endure mixed day

Britain’s athletes had a mixed final day of the London Grand Prix ahead of tomorrow’s squad announcement for the World Championships. Helen Clitheroe achieved a personal best in the 5,000m, but Christine Ohuruogu finished last in the 400m. MORE