JUDGEMENTS

Winners and losers of the last seven days

WINNERS

Kevin Keegan

Whose Newcastle United team go into tonight's game with second-placed Manchester United 10 points clear at the top. The questions that were being asked earlier this month about their mid-season form are apparently being answered.

Northampton rugby club

Who, despite losing at Bath in the cup, learned that they have made spectacular progress during their time in the Second Division.

The Sri Lanka cricket team

Who were cleared of allegations of ball-tampering in the first Test against Australia. They received an apology from the International Cricket Council, which also criticised the umpires involved.

LOSERS

The Sri Lanka cricket team

Whose off-spinner, Muttiah Muralitharan, had his bowling method ruled illegal yesterday on the opening day of the second Test against Australia. The International Cricket Council, which backed the umpires, urged the Sri Lankans to work on the player's action.

Angus Fraser

Not so long ago the bowler England could not do without, now the one they seem most keen to have serving the drinks.

Rugby League

Which is in danger of failing to make the distinction between selling its TV rights to Mr Murdoch and selling itself.

Boxing Day racegoers

Who were denied the chance of a single bet when all yesterday's meetings were called off for the first time since 1962.