The Sports Matrix: Thursday 3 January 2013

Wright-Phillips makes wasteful Chelsea pay

A late goal by substitute Shaun Wright-Phillips helped QPR to a surprise 1-0 victory at Chelsea last night. The former Blues midfielder struck from the edge of the area to leave Chelsea in fourth place. Rafa Benitez hopes to conclude a deal for Newcastle United striker Demba Ba today, with the player due to undergo a medical. MORE

Everton come from behind in victory

Everton came from behind to beat Newcastle 2-1 at St James' Park last night. Papiss Cissé headed the hosts ahead before Leighton Baines and Victor Anichebe replied. Newcastle hope to conclude the imminent signings of Loïc Rémy and Mathieu Debuchy. MORE

Suarez shines as Reds move on up

Another virtuoso display from Luis Suarez helped Liverpool to a 3-0 victory over Sunderland at Anfield. Watched by new signing Daniel Sturridge, the Uruguayan set up Raheem Sterling for the opener before scoring either side of the break to move Liverpool up to eighth. MORE

Kompany: the title chase is all in hand

Vincent Kompany says last season's Premier League win gives Manchester City confidence they can reel in neighbours United and retain their crown. "Now we have done it, nobody panics," he said. "Everything is possible. We have proved what we can do and everybody is very calm." MORE

Taylor's mum his sternest critic

Phil Taylor admitted his mum would not be happy at his loss of four sets to Michael van Gerwen before winning Tuesday's PDC World Championship. "She will hit me with a bucket and her walking stick," he said. "She will be saying, 'What are you doing, losing four sets to him?'" MORE

Watson misses out against Bertens

British No 1 Heather Watson missed a number of chances as she lost 6-4 3-6 6-3 to Kiki Bertens in the second round of the ASB Classic. The 20-year-old converted just five of 12 break points against a rival ranked 14 places below her. MORE

Kiwis skittled out for 45 by Proteas

New Zealand were bowled out for just 45 as South Africa dominated the opening day of the first Test in Cape Town. Only Kane Williamson reached double figures as the Kiwis made the lowest Test score in 39 years. The hosts ended on 252 for 3 in reply.

Cook seeks perfect recipe with Giles

Alastair Cook is looking forward to working with coach Ashley Giles on the limited-overs tour of India. "He has a fantastic record," the captain said. "Everyone speaks highly of him. I am looking forward to our relationship growing." MORE

Ryder hopes to set up Flintoff fight

New Zealand cricketer Jesse Ryder has challenged Andrew Flintoff to a bout during the upcoming Test series with England. "My people have been in touch to try and set up a fight," Ryder said. "I'm keen to get in the ring again."

Russell starts with new year treble

Horse trainer Lucinda Russell made a flying start to 2013 yesterday, collecting three races in barely an hour at Ayr. One horse, Tap Night, recorded his fifth victory in six starts in winning by five lengths. MORE

James Lawton

For David Moyes' side it was more than a victory filled with character and moments of superb professional accomp-lishment. It was a refusal to buckle under the most dispiriting pressure. MORE