Lyon off to ideal start

LYON, France: French champions Lyon on Sunday got its title defence off to the ideal start with a 2-0 home win against a timid Auxerre side.

Beckham's MLS debut on hold

TORONTO: There were several David Beckham and Posh Spice impersonators strolling the terraces of BMO Field but no sign of the genuine article on the pitch as the Los Angeles Galaxy and Toronto FC battled to a 0-0 draw on Sunday.

IN BRIEF (Page 24)

Sharapova In form & Out for US repeat

SAN DIEGO: Maria Sharapova was feeling confident about her US Open defence after beating Patty Schnyder to win the last San Diego Classic on Sunday before the event moves to Beijing next year.

Sports

Annika calls on Tiger's British Open yardstick

ST ANDREWS, Scotland: Annika Sorenstam is hoping some advice from good friend Tiger Woods will help the Swede claim her 11th major at the Women's British Open starting on Thursday over the Old Course at St Andrews.

Phelps back in grand style at US titles

CHICAGO: Michael Phelps grabbed the spotlight at the US swimming nationals on Wednesday, scooping a pair of titles while narrowly missing out on a world record in the 200m backstroke in Indianapolis.

Nesta hangs up international boots

MILAN: AC Milan's Italy defender Alessandro Nesta has retired from the international game following in the footsteps of striker Francesco Totti.

Espionage cloud hangs over Alonso title revival

BUDAPEST: The Formula One circus arrives in Budapest this weekend as the 'espionage' case between Ferrari and McLaren drags on and the title race really begins to hot up.

IN BRIEF (Page 24)

Sports

F1 body sends 'spy saga' verdict to appeal

LONDON: McLaren's title prospects were plunged back into doubt on Tuesday when Formula One's governing body agreed an appeal court should have the final say on the 'spy saga' gripping the sport.