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Auckland FC members of the Team of the Seasnon from back left Hiroki Sakai, Francis de Vries, Steve Corica, Nado Pijanaker, and Alex Paulsen, front row Louis Verstraete and Guillermo May PHOTO: AUCKLAND FC They missed out of the A-League Grand Final but Auckland FC dominate the Professional Footballers Australia Team of the Season The squad consists of 18 players, with Premiers Plate winners Auckland FC having the most representatives of any club. LATEST HEADLINES: Kiwi downhill, enduro's face Pyrenees Jets see off Sharks solidify playoffs spot Tuipulotu stays with NZR, Blues til 2028 Savea brothers start against Hurricanes Ouwehand no Aquatic World Champs Auckland FC goalkeeper Alex Paulsen captains the side, for the second consecutive season, after he received the most votes of any player. Paulsen, who was on loan to Auckland FC from English Premier League side Bournemouth, will move on from the A-League next season. He couldn't believe he was named captain. "I'm still taking it in to be honest. "I'm thankful to everyone who voted for me, it means so much. I want to thank my teammates, the coaching staff and my family who have all supported me over this past year and encouraged me to become a better person and a better goalkeeper. "It is a huge honour and privilege to be represented on behalf of Auckland FC." Joining Paulsen in the PFA team are Auckland's Francis de Vries, Hiroki Sakai, Louis Verstraete, Guillermo May and Nando Pijnaker. Steve Corica has been voted as coach. Only five players from the two A-League Grand Finalists were included. Melbourne City have four players in the squad, including two starters in defence with Kai Trewin and Nathaniel Atkinson voted in the back four, while Aziz Behich and Marco Tilio are among the substitutes. Melbourne Victory have only one player, midfielder Ryan Teague. The team: The team is comprised of a 4-3-3 formation, with seven substitutes on the bench. All selected players received the most votes among their peers by PFA A-League Men members at the conclusion of the regular season. The members also voted on their coach of the season.  Goalkeeper: Alex Paulsen (Auckland FC) Defenders: Francis De Vries (Auckland FC), Kai Trewin (Melbourne City), Nathaniel Atkinson (Melbourne City FC), Hiroki Sakai (Auckland FC) Midfielders: Angus Thurgate (Western United), Ryan Teague (Melbourne Victory), Louis Verstraete (Auckland FC)  Forwards: Adrian Segecic (Sydney FC), Archie Goodwin (Adelaide United), Nicholas Milanovic (Western Sydney Wanderers) Substitutes: Lawrence Thomas (Western Sydney Wanderers), Aziz Behich (Melbourne City), Nando Pijnaker (Auckland FC), Anthony Caceres (Sydney FC), Guillermo May (Auckland FC), Marco Tilio (Melbourne City), Noah Botic (Western United) Captain: Alex Paulsen (Auckland FC) Coach: Steve Corica (Auckland FC)

Lachlan Stevens-McNab at the 2024 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Andorra PHOTO: SWPix New Zealand mountain bikers return to a favoured stop in the French Pyrenees for the next rounds in the UCI World Series for both downhill and enduro competition this weekend. The popular venue of Loudenvielle-Peyragudes, perched in the Louron Valley, will host the second round of the UCI MTB World Series for downhill and the third row for enduro. LATEST HEADLINES: Jets see off Sharks solidify playoffs spot Tuipulotu stays with NZR, Blues til 2028 Savea brothers start against Hurricanes Ouwehand no Aquatic World Champs Sun, Venus doubles win French Open Last year nine kiwi riders finished in the top-10 and they are all returning to look for further success across both disciplines. The enduro competition features familiar trails across five stages with a race distance of 43kms with 1470m of ascending and 2410 of descending. Last year Charlie Murray (Specialized) finished sixth in the elite men, and is joined in elite competition by Rotorua’s Joe Millington from the Yeti NZ Development team, who was second in the junior men last year. Nelson national champion George Swift (Yeti-Fox) scored a top-10 in the elite women. The downhill track was made by local course builders which melds man-made features with the sheer contours of the hillside. The top half of the track is relatively flat and open giving way to a steep and wooded bottom half which proved a major challenge. Rotorua’s Lachie Stevens-McNab (Trek Factory) was ninth fastest in qualifying last year and was third quickest at the midpoint in the final but succumbed with a fall on the treacherous descent. The 21-year-old is excited about the race ahead. “I like riding the track and look forward to getting out there to see what they have changed and hopefully the weather stays away because the track is going to be real fast,” said Stevens-McNab. “The top bit it flat so it is important that you are carrying good speed and not make any mistakes because when it is flat you can’t get the speed back as quickly. “The bottom is very technical. I like riding the track and look forward to getting out there to see what they have changed and hopefully the weather stays away because the track is going to be real fast.” Stevens-McNab has moved to the high profile Trek Factory team this year and impressed with the set-up. “The new team is awesome. Everyone is here to do their best, whether they are a rider, a mechanic, or a manager - everyone is doing their best for one another which I feel is important. “I have a new team, a new trainer and more testing than ever. My mechanic was with me in New Zealand for a month so preparation has been good.” Fellow Rotorua rider Luke Wayman, who riders for the exciting Continental Atherton team, enjoys this track also, finishing on the podium in the junior men last year. Compatriot Tyler Waite (Hawkes Bay, Yet Fox Factory) returns to the junior men’s competition after finishing runner-up last year. Two-time junior world champion Erice van Leuven, who has made a miraculous recovery from significant injury, has her first elite start at the track where she won last year on the way to the overall junior title along with a second world title. Also moving up to elites is Auckland’s Sacha Earnest (Trek Factory), who was third in the junior final at Loudenvielle last year, while Bellah Birchall (Rotorua, Team High Country) and Eliana Hulsebosch (Tauranga, Santa Cruz) return with high hopes after both placed in the top six last year. All downhill riders will need to get to grips with the new qualification system this year where all elite riders completing qualifying round one, where the top 20 men and top 10 women advance to the final. The remainder have a second qualifying run where the top 10 men and top five women also make the final. There is a single qualifying session for junior riders where the top-20 men and top-15 women advance. There are 21 kiwi riders across both disciplines racing this weekend with the enduro competition on Saturday from 6pm to Sunday 1am (NZ Time). The downhill qualifying is from 10.30pm on Saturday to 3am Sunday (NZ Time) and finals are on Sunday (NZT) from 8.50pm (junior female), 9.20pm (junior male), 10.15pm (elite female) and 11.10pm (elite male) – also NZ time. The New Zealand entries are: Enduro, Elite women: Winni Goldsbury (Specialized Gravity, Christchurch), George Swift (Yeti-Fox, Nelson). Elite men: Oliver Jenkins-Jablonski (Christchurch), Edward Masters (Pivot Factory, New Plymouth), Joe Millington (Yeti NZ Development, Rotorua), Charles Murray (Specialized Gravity, Wanaka), Lachie Ross (Upper Hutt), Matthew Walker (Pivot Factory, Kawerau). Junior men: Cooper Millward (Yeti Development NZ, Alexandra), Marcus Sayers (Yeti Development NZ, Rotorua). Downhill, Elite women: Jess Blewitt (Cube Factory, Queenstown), Sacha Earnest (Trek Factory, Auckland), Jenna Hastings (Pivot Factory, Rotorua), Erice van Leuven (Norco Race, Wellington) Junior women: Bellah Birchall (Team High Country, Rotorua), Indy Deavoll (Queenstown), Eliana Hulsebosch (Santa Cruz, Tauranga). Elite men: Nico Arnold (Wanaka), Angus Ferguson (Christchurch), Sam Gale (Nelson), Toby Meek (Queenstown), Lachlan Stevens-McNab (Trek Factory, Rotorua), Tuhoto-Ariki Pene (MS Racing, Rotorua), Luke Wayman (Continental Atherton, Christchurch). Junior men: Seppy Binsbergen (New Plymouth), Malik Boatwright (Team High Country, Queenstown), Oli Clark (MS Racing, Kaikoura), Rory Meek (Queenstown), Sterling Stevens-McNab (Rotorua), Tyler Waite (Yeti Fox Factory, Clive), Jonty Williamson (Yeti Fox Factory, Palmerston North).

The Manawatu Jets took another step towards ending their long National Basketball League (NBL) playoffs drought. The Jets, out of the postseason since 2012, defeated the Southland Sharks 91-88 to open Week 11 of the Sal's NBL at Hawera's TSB Hub on Wednesday night to improve to 8-5 and fourth spot in the standings. LATEST HEADLINES: Tuipulotu stays with NZR, Blues til 2028 Savea brothers start against Hurricanes Ouwehand no Aquatic World Champs Sun, Venus doubles win French Open Auckland FC win at A-League awards Warriors co-captains named for Souths With Tall Blacks veteran Corey Webster still out for Manawatu, young Kiwi guard Dontae Russo-Nance stepped up, hitting the game-winning transition three with just four seconds remaining. Russo-Nance finished with a team-high 21 points (9/16 FG, 3/7 3pt), six rebounds, five assists and three steals, while the Jets' three imports also did the heavy lifting on offence. Forward Miles Gibson produced 19 points (6/16 FG, 2/5 3pt, 5/6 FT), seven boards and three assists, new import guard Quinton Rose 18 points (7/14 FG, 2/5 3pt), six assists and four steals, and Kenny Goins 11 points (5/8 FG), five boards and three assists. Dontae Russo-Nance scored a team-high 21 points and hit the game-winning three for the Manawatu Jets. PHOTO: NBL Isaac Miller-Jose also had 11 points (4/6 FG), five rebounds and four assists, a steal and block, as the Jets starting five scored 82 of their 91 points. Forward Keylan Boone scored a game-high 29 points (9/16 FG, 4/10 3pt, 7/7 FT), eight rebounds and three steals, supported by 14 points (4/7 FG, 3/5 3pt, 3/4 FT), six boards, six assists and two steals from fellow American Caleb Asberry. Sharks captain Alonzo Burton provided 15 points (5/14 FG, 5/13 3pt) and import centre Josiah Allick 10 points (4/6 FG), five rebounds and five assists. In a game in which neither side led by more than eight points - with 12 lead changes and eight ties - the Jets took the lead for good in a frenetic final minute. Miller-Jose, Gibson and Russo-Nance all hit late threes to either tie the game or take the lead. Sam Timmins gave Southland an 86-84 lead with 51 seconds to play, while Boone hit a pair of free-throws with nine seconds left to level it at 88-88. The Jets overcame a 14-0 Sharks run that turned an eight-point lead into a six-point deficit. Manawatu had an 11-0 stretch early in the second period but their lead was fleeting. Manawatu (8-5) catch a break, with their next game not until Sunday, June 8 when they take on the Giants (3-10) in Nelson (tip-off 1pm), while the Sharks (5-8) take on the Taranaki Airs (8-4) in New Plymouth on Friday (tip-off 7.30pm). Manawatu Jets 91 (Dontae Russo-Nance 21, Miles Gibson 19, Quinton Rose 18, Kenny Goins 11, Isaac Miller-Jose 11) Southland Sharks 88 (Keylan Boone 29, Alonzo Burton 15, Caleb Asberry 14, Josiah Allick 10). 1Q: 17-23, HT: 46-48, 3Q: 66-61

Leory Carter was part of the Chiefs blitz of Moana Pasifika last week PHOTO: CRAIG BUTLAND/ lINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY The final round of Super Rugby Pacific has three teams aiming to cement sixth place and the others searching for prime positions. The Savea brothers, Ardie and Julian are set to start against their old team the Hurricanes this weekend. Moana Pasifika are looking to bounce back from the thrashing they got at the hands of Chiefs. LATEST HEADLINES: Ouwehand no Aquatic World Champs Sun, Venus doubles win French Open Auckland FC win at A-League awards Co-captains named for NZ Warriors Neyder Moreno leaves Auckland FC The Hurricanes have Brett Cameron at first five and Ruben Love moving back to fullback. Tjay Clarke comes onto the bench for his first appearance of the season. There's only a few minorl changes to the Highlanders with Cam Millar back at first five and Tai Cribb starting at lock for their match against the Chiefs. Etene Nanai-Seturo finally returns after a hamstring injury in round one. He links up with Leroy Carter on the right wing and Shaun Stevenson at fullback. Josh Lord is back from injury too at lock, with Samipeni Finau and Simon Parker swapping places in the starting lineup. Back for the Crusaders after yet anotehr injury layoff is Ethan Blackadder.He'll be alongside Tom Chritie and Christian Lio-Willie in a formidable loose forward trio. Antonio Shalfoon is at lock, while David Havili gets a rest as Dallas McLeod and Levi Aumua start in the midfield. The Blues have to beat the Waratahs and gain the full five points and hope that Moana Pasifika get just four points if they beat the Hurricanes or that they lose. The Waratahs can still make sixth if they beat the Blues and Moana lose. Simple really. Finlay Christie starts for the Blues at halfback as the Blues return from the bye while Mark Tele'a is back on the wing after his suspension. Highlanders v Chiefs, 7:05pm Friday 30 May, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin Highlanders : 1. Ethan de Groot, 2. Jack Taylor, 3. Saula Ma'u, 4. Fabian Holland, 5. Tai Cribb, 6. TK Howden, 7. Veveni Lasaqa, 8. Sean Withy, 9. Folau Fakatava, 10. Cam Millar, 11. Taniela Filimone, 12. Timoci Tavatavanawai, 13. Tanielu Tele'a, 14. Jonah Lowe, 15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens Bench: 16. Soane Vikena, 17. Daniel Lienert-Brown, 18. Sosefo Kautai, 19. Will Stodart, 20. Michael Loft, 21. Adam Lennox, 22. Sam Gilbert, 23. Thomas Umaga-Jensen Chiefs : 1. Jared Proffit, 2. Bradley Slater, 3. Reuben O'Neill, 4. Josh Lord, 5. Tupou Vaa'i, 6. Samipeni Finau, 7. Luke Jacobson (c), 8. Wallace Sititi, 9. Xavier Roe, 10. Damian McKenzie, 11. Etene Nanai-Seturo, 12. Quinn Tupaea, 13. Daniel Rona, 14. Leroy Carter, 15. Shaun Stevenson Bench: 16. Samisoni Taukei'aho, 17. Ollie Norris, 18. George Dyer, 19. Naitoa Ah Kuoi, 20. Simon Parker, 21. Cortez Ratima, 22. Josh Jacomb, 23. Manasa Mataele Brumbies v Crusaders, 9:35pm Friday 30 May, GIO Stadium, Canberra Crusaders : 1. George Bower, 2. Codie Taylor (c), 3. Tamaiti Williams, 4. Scott Barrett, 5. Antonio Shalfoon, 6. Ethan Blackadder, 7. Tom Christie, 8. Christian Lio-Willie, 9. Noah Hotham, 10. Rivez Reihana, 11. Sevu Reece, 12. Dallas McLeod, 13. Levi Aumua, 14. Chay Fihaki, 15. Johnny McNicholl Bench: 16. George Bell, 17. Lewis Ponini, 18. Seb Calder, 19. Tahlor Cahill, 20. Corey Kellow, 21. Kyle Preston, 22. James O'Connor, 23. Braydon Ennor Blues v Waratahs, 4:35pm Saturday 31 May, Eden Park, Auckland Blues : 1. Joshua Fusitu'a, 2. Ricky Riccitelli, 3. Marcel Renata, 4. Patrick Tuipulotu (c), 5. Laghlan McWhannell, 6. Anton Segner, 7. Dalton Papali'i, 8. Hoskins Sotutu, 9. Finlay Christie, 10. Beauden Barrett, 11. Caleb Clarke, 12. AJ Lam, 13. Rieko Ioane, 14. Mark Tele'a, 15. Corey Evans Bench: 16. Kurt Eklund, 17. Jordan Lay, 18. Angus Ta'avao, 19. Josh Beehre, 20. Adrian Choat, 21. Sam Nock, 22. Harry Plummer, 23. Cole Forbes Hurricanes v Moana Pasifika, 7:05pm Saturday 31 May, Sky Stadium, Wellington Hurricanes : 1. Xavier Numia, 2. Jacob Devery, 3. Tyrel Lomax, 4. Zach Gallagher, 5. Hugo Plummer, 6. Devan Flanders, 7. Du'Plessis Kirifi (cc), 8. Peter Lakai, 9. Cam Roigard, 10. Brett Cameron, 11. Fatafehi Fineanganofo, 12. Peter Umaga-Jensen, 13. Billy Proctor (cc), 14. Bailyn Sullivan, 15. Ruben Love Bench: 16. Raymond Tuputupu, 17. Pouri Rakete-Stones, 18. Pasilio Tosi, 19. Will Tucker, 20. Brad Shields (cc), 21. Ereatara Enari, 22. Jone Rova, 23. Tjay Clarke Moana Pasifika: 1. Tito Tuipulotu, 2. Millennium Sanerivi, 3. Feleti Sae-Ta'ufo'ou, 4. Tom Savage, 5. Samuel Slade, 6. Miracle Faiilagi, 7. Ardie Savea, 8. Semisi Tupou Ta'eiloa, 9. Jonathan Taumateine, 10. Patrick Pellegrini, 11. Solomon Alaimalo, 12. Julian Savea, 13. Lalomilo Lalomilo, 14. Kyren Taumoefolau, 15. Tevita Ofa Bench: 16. Samiuela Moli, 17. Abraham Pole, 18. Chris Apoua, 19. Allan Craig, 20. Lotu Inisi, 21. Melani Matavao, 22. Jackson Garden-Bachop, 23. Pepesana Patafilo Other: Reds v Drua Kick-off: 9:35pm Saturday 31 May Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane Force - bye

Patrick Tuipulotu has re-signed with the Blues and NZR until the end of Super Rugby 2028 PHOTO: CRAIG BUTLAND/LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY Patrick Tuipulotu is staying with the Blues and New Zealand Rugby (NZR), until the end of the 2028 Super Rugby Pacific season One of the most respected figures in New Zealand rugby and cornerstone of the Blues forward pack, Tuipulotu’s presence will remain central to the team’s ambitions. LATEST HEADLINES: Teams named for Super Rugby rnd 16 Ouwehand no Aquatic World Champs Sun, Venus doubles win French Open Auckland FC win at A-League awards Co-captains named for NZ Warriors Tuipulotu, who made his debut for the Blues in 2014, has since amassed over 100 caps for the club and established himself as one of the most dominant locks in Super Rugby. “This club is home. I care deeply about the people, the jersey, and what it represents,” said Tuipulotu. “I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, but I believe there’s still more to come. I’m excited about the future and honoured to lead this team into the next chapter.” Standing at 1.98m, his imposing physicality and relentless work rate have long made him a key figure in both the Blues and All Blacks environments. After taking on the full-time captaincy in 2020, Tuipulotu has helped shape the culture of the club, culminating in the historic 2024 Super Rugby Pacific title. Despite suffering a serious injury late in the season, Tuipulotu returned in time to lead the team to victory in the Grand Final, a performance that epitomised his grit and character. Now aged 32, Tuipulotu’s journey began at St Peter’s College in Auckland before rising through the New Zealand Schools and Under 20s programmes. He made his All Blacks debut in 2014. Off the field, Tuipulotu has also been instrumental within the community as founder of the Blues Charitable Trust (BCT), a youth development charity on a mission to help rangatahi (young people) make informed choices and build brighter, more successful futures. Blues CEO Andrew Hore said Tuipulotu’s re-signing represents much more than a just a contract extension. “Patrick is the heartbeat of this team. He leads with integrity, plays with passion, and gives everything for the jersey,” he said. “His decision to stay is a powerful endorsement of what we’ve built here at the Blues, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have him with us through 2028.” All Blacks Assistant Coach Jason Ryan added to the endorsement. “Patty brings a wealth of experience and a calm, commanding presence that lifts the standard of everyone around him. His leadership on and off the field is immense and having a player of his calibre commit to New Zealand Rugby through to 2028 is fantastic news.” The Blues host the Waratahs in a must-win match on Saturday at Eden Park to make the Super Rugby playoffs.

A week on the sideline and James Fisher-Harris is back named ofr Warriors PHOTO: NRL NZ Warriors co-captains Mitchell Barnett and James Fisher-Harris have both been named along with centre Rocco Berry for Sunday’s 13th-round NRL clash against the Rabbitohs Barnett starts for New South Wales in tomorrow night’s opening match of the 2025 State of Origin series against Queensland at Suncorp Stadium before backing up for his club in Sydney four days later. LATEST HEADLINES: Neyder Moreno leaves Auckland FC Wellington Phoenix lose biggest star Highlanders rating tow big-name stars Kerr takes gold at Rabat Diamond League Mystics close win over Steel in Premiership Fisher-Harris is set to be reunited with his front row teammate after being forced to sit on the sideline for last Sunday night’s clash against Canberra as he served a one-match suspension. The inclusion of the veteran front rowers is a huge boost after they were unavailable for the gruelling 10-16 loss to the Raiders which ended the Warriors’ five-game winning run since losing to Melbourne on April 13. Berry has been recalled for his fourth appearance of a disrupted season after suffering a hamstring strain just after halftime in the Magic Round clash against the Cowboys. He earlier sat out the match against the Broncos as he served a one-match suspension. With Berry back, Ali Leiataua makes way while the hoped-for availability of both Barnett and Fisher-Harris sees Marata Niukore, who started at prop against Canberra, reverting to the second row alongside Kurt Capewell while Leka Halasima shifts to the interchange. Named on the interchange with Halasima are utility Te Maire Martin and middle forwards Demitric Vaimauga and Jackson Ford. Martin has been used in brief stints off the bench in the last three matches and also did the same against the Broncos in round seven. He’s in sight of his 100th career game as he eyes his 98th appearance on Sunday. With their narrow loss on Sunday night the Warriors are in a share of second on the table but are third behind Canberra on points for and against, just two points behind the Bulldogs. The Wayne Bennett-coached Rabbitohs are coming off a bye sitting sixth on the ladder on 14 points with a 6-5 win-loss record. They have two players in the New South Wales squad in centre Latrell Mitchell and 18th man Campbell Graham. In 41 matches between the two clubs, South Sydney has 21 wins to the Warriors’ 20. The Warriors won 34-4 when the two teams Warriors: 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, 3. Adam Pompey, 4.Rocco Berry, 5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita, 7. Luke Metcalf, 8. James Fisher-Harris, 9. Wayde Egan, 10. Mitch Barnett, 11. Kurt Capewell (c), 12. Marata Niukore, 13. Erin Clark Interchange (from): 14. Te Maire Martin, 15. Leka Halasima, 16. Demetric Vaimauga, 17. Jackson Ford, 18. Jacob Laban, 20. Sam Healey, 21. Tanah Boyd, 22. Tanner Stowers-Smith, 23. Taine Tuaupiki

Hazel Ouwehand breaking records but not going to the World Championships PHOTO: SIMON WATTS BW MEDIA Simmer Hazel Ouwehand, has explained not putting her name forward for selction for the World Aquatics Championships. That's despite being the leading light at the recent New Zealand Championships. She broke her own national 50m butterfly record and is currently the highest ranked New Zealand swimmer at fourth in the world in her main event. LATEST HEADLINES: Sun, Venus doubles win French Open Auckland FC win at A-League awards Co-captains named for NZ Warriors Neyder Moreno leaves Auckland FC Wellington Phoenix lose biggest star In typical fahsion Ouwehand left the following message on her social media. "After various conversations with my Coach several months ago I made the decision not to compete at World Championships in Singapore this year. . I’m not gonna give a massive long post on why, cause honestly who can be bothered reading that… right? In short, there are a lot of factors that contributed to this decision: health, rest, training, finances etc. But the main thing to note is that it’s not in my swim plan devised by my Coach and I. . This was honestly quite an easy decision to make, and though I am sure I will have severe FOMO watching everyone compete, I am confident this is the best decision for me." The team for the 2025 World Aquatics Championships, to be held in Singapore in July and August, is: Lewis Clareburt Louis Clark (debutant) - Open water Caitlin Deans Erika Fairweather Amber George (debutant) Finn Harland (debutant) Andrew Jeffcoat Savannah-Eve Martin (debutant) Zoe Pedersen (debutant) Laura Quilter Milana Tapper (debutant) Eve Thomas The team for the World Aquatics Junior Swimming Championships, to be held in Romania in August, is: Milan Glintmeyer Daniel Kregting Alyssa Lawson James Leigh Ariel Muchirahondo Zoe Pederson Igor Russanov Alyssa Tapper Monique Wieruszowski

Lulu Sun has had a first round doubles win at Roland Garros as has fellow Kiwi Michael Venus PHOTO: LULU SUN SOCIALS Lulu Sun and Michael Venus have both had first round wins intheir their respective doubles matches at the French Open. Sun and Chinese partner Yuan Yue beat Russia’s Anna Blinkova and Mayar Sherif (Egypt) Egypt 6-2 5-7 6-3, while Venus and Croat Nikola Mektic knocked out Gregorie Jacq from France and Australia’s Matthew Romios 6-4 1-6 6-4. LATEST HEADLINES: Auckland FC win at A-League awards Co-captains named for NZ Warriors Neyder Moreno leaves Auckland FC Wellington Phoenix lose biggest star Highlanders rating tow big-name stars On Court 2, Sun and Yuan raced out to a 3-0 lead in the opening set of their match and had two break points to go up 4-1. However their opponents fought back to make the score 4-4 before Sun hitting a winning drop shot for the set. Sun survived a break point against her in the opening game of the second set, but Yuan wasn’t so successful two games later. That was followed by five breaks of serve in a row, before Sun finally got a hold, with Blinkova putting a forehand into the net on game point. There were breaks for both teams in the early stages of the deciding set, but Sun and Yuan got the crucial one in the eighth game to go up 5-3. On the first match point Yuan put a backhand down the line into the net, but she earned themselves a second match point and this time Yuan hit a perfectly placed forehand into the corner. On Court 8 Venus and Mektic had a break in the sixth game of the opening set and then kept hold of that lead. But the No 7 seeds couldn’t get going in the second set and found themselves down 5-0 before they got on the board. At 4-5 in the deciding set, Venus and Mektic stepped up their returns and went after Jacq’s serve to go up 0-40. The next two points went the way of Jacq the Frenchman, but on the third match point Mektic hit a blistering return to secure a spot for himself and Venus in the second round.

Steve Corica was named A=League Men's coach of the year PHOTO: A-LEAGUE Despite their loss in the semifinals Auckland FC have taken away four accolades at the A-Leagues' end-of-season Dolan Warren awards. The wins came from Steve Corica being named men's A-League coach of the year, Alex Paulsen was goalkeeper of the year. LATEST HEADLINES: Co-captains named for NZ Warriors Neyder Moreno leaves Auckland FC Wellington Phoenix lose biggest star Highlanders rating tow big-name stars Kerr takes gold at Rabat Diamond League Francis de Vries was the fan player of the year while Paulsen also received the award for save of the year, for his stop against Melbourne Victory striker Nikos Vergos in round 27. Football Ferns goalkeeper Claudia Jenkins, who plays for Adelaide United, won the save of the year award in A-League Women, for keeping out a longe-range effort by Cass Davis of the Newcastle Jets in round nine. The Johnny Warren Medal for player of the year in A-League Men went to Nicolas Milanović of Western Sydney Wanderers, Auckland captain Hiroki Sakai was third in the Johnny Warren Medal, with 24 votes. Milanović gained 28 and Angus Thurgate 25. Aucklnad FC forward Guillermo was sixth-equal with 20. Now retired Wellington Phoenix captain Annalie Longo was fifth in the Julie Dolan points for women with Alex Chidiac from the Melbourne Victory taking the Julie Dolan Medal.

Neyder Moreno won't be returnin g to Auckland FC next seasons PHOTO: A-LEAGUE Popular Auckland FC's import Neyder Moreno will not be returning to the A-League club next season, The 28-year-old Colombian signed with Auckland in October after not being with a club since the middle of 2024.' LATEST HEADLINES: Wellington Phoenix lose biggest star Highlanders rating tow big-name stars Kerr takes gold at Rabat Diamond League Mystics close win over Steel in Premiership New Zealand team World Aquatics Champs He played 24 games for Auckland including Saturday's loss to Melbourne Victory and scoring eight goals in the regular season. Moreno put a message on social media in Spanish that he was following "a different path" and moving on from Auckland FC. "With a lump in my throat, but with great gratitude, today I have to say good-bye to this team that has been like a second family to me," he wrote. "We've shared many hours in training, matches, trips, and moments that go far beyond football. I learned to fight, to get up after each fall, to enjoy victories and learn from defeats, always with you by my side. "I'm taking with me great memories, sincere friendships, and a deep respect for each and every one of you. Thank you for making me part of this group, for believing in me, for pushing me to be better on and off the field. "Today it's time for me to follow a different path, but I will always carry the team's colours in my heart. I hope you continue to grow, that you never lose your passion, and that you continue giving your all in every game, as we always did." Coach Steve Corica said post-match on Saturday Moreno and New Zealand midfielder Luis Toomey were two players who were not signed. Next season the A-League will start introducing a salary cap that sets spending limits and reduce the number of players who sit outside the salary cap. Next season a $A3.5 million hard cap trial would be put in place, followed in season 2026/27 by a hard cap of $A3m, plus one marquee player whose salary sits outside the cap.

Kosta Barbarouses is leaving the Wellington Phoenix PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY The Wellington Phoenix have lost arguably their biggest name player, striker Kosta Barbarouses, is leaving the A-League club. The, 35-year-old All Whites forward has turned down his option of a contract extension and has informed the club he intends to play elsewhere next season. LATEST HEADLINES: Highlanders rating tow big-name stars Kerr takes gold at Rabat Diamond League Mystics close win over Steel in Premiership New Zealand team World Aquatics Champs Alker rallies at Senior Major, Kobori top-10 Earlier this month defenders Sam Sutton and Scott Wooton, who had each played over 100 games for the club, announced they were leaving. The club finished 11th this season with just six wins 26 games. Barbarouses, 35, has had three stints with the Phoenix. In the last two years under head coach Giancarlo Italiano he scored 23 goals in 54 A-League matches. Earlier this month he became the club's first three-time winner of the men's player of the year award. The four-time A-League champion signed off by scoring the match-winner in Wellington's Australia Cup playoff against Brisbane Roar in Darwin last week. "The three years I've spent with the Phoenix in my home town have been very special to me," Barbarouses said. "I'm grateful to the fans, the squad and many of the staff members for everything. "The decision to leave has been a very difficult one to make and I wish the Phoenix all the best in the future." Phoenix director of football Shaun Gill is convinced the club did all it could to keep hold of Barbarouses. "Kosta has had two of the best seasons of his career at the Phoenix and we believed he was in the best place to secure selection in the All Whites' World Cup squad," Gill said. "In recognition of his performances over the past two seasons we tabled what we believed was a very competitive contract offer. "We're disappointed he's turned down our contract extension, but we respect his decision and thank him for all of his contributions to the club." The club also lost All Whites defender Sam Sutton to Perth Glory as they try to retain players for the next season. Currently they have 18 men's players contracted for the 2025-26 A-League season.

Fabian Holland on the charge for the Highlanders is staying with the franchise for three more seasons PHOTO: CRAIG BUGLAND/LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY The Highlanders have confirmed the signings of two mainstay players for their future in Super Rugby Pacific. Lock Fabian Holland has re-signed with the franchise for an additional three years, extending his commitment through to the end of the 2028 Super Rugby Pacific season. Backline utility and co-captain Timoci Tavatavanawai has also re-signed for a further two years, committing to the team through the end of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season. LATEST HEADLINES: Kerr takes gold at Rabat Diamond League Mystics close win over Steel in Premiership New Zealand team World Aquatics Champs Alker rallies at Senior Major, Kobori top-10 Disastrous start for NZ drivers at Indy 500 Since arriving in New Zealand from the Netherlands as a 16-year-old Holland has rapidly ascended through the rugby ranks. Selected for the NZ U20s in 2021 he also made his NPC debut for Otago in the same season. In 2022 at just 19 years of age he played the first of his 33 appearance for the Highlanders and has since become a mainstay in the starting lineup playing 13 games in 2024 and every game in 2025. His consistent performances have earned him recognition at national level, including a call-up to the All Blacks XV in 2024 and a match for the renowned Barbarians club against Fiji alongside All Black great Sam Whitelock. At a domestic level Holland was announced as the 2025 Forward and Defender of the year at the Highlanders annual awards evening held on Monday night. Highlanders Head Coach Jamie Joseph commended Holland's development: “Fabian has come a long way in a short amount of time. He’s hungry for knowledge, has lots of energy, wants to help and focused on fulfilling his rugby aspirations. We are delighted that he has committed to the team for the future.” Holland expressed his enthusiasm about the extension. “This was not a hard decision for me really, being a Highlander means everything to me—a little Dutch kid’s dream that has become a reality. I love this club and the people of the region and can’t wait to get stuck into another season with this team.” The highly touted Holland will no doubt be in line for higher honours at some point and at 22 years old has a big future in front of him. Meanwhile Tavatavanawai, who joined the Highlanders in 2024, has quickly become a fan favourite and a pivotal part of the Highlanders’ backline with his explosive speed, relentless physicality, and try-scoring prowess. His on-field impact and off-field leadership have been instrumental, culminating in his appointment as co-Captain for the 2025 season. Joseph expressed his enthusiasm about the re-signing and what Tavatavanawai brings to the franchise. “Timoci brings a unique blend of power and agility that lifts the entire squad. Beyond his athletic ability, he’s a leader who sets high standards and drives our culture forward. We’re thrilled to have him locked in for the next two seasons.” Tavatavanawai said he is proud to extend his time in the Highlanders jersey: “It’s a privilege to be part of this club and community. The support from the fans and the environment we’ve built here make Dunedin feel like home. I’m excited about the direction we’re heading and honoured to continue representing the Highlanders.” Originally from Fiji, Tavatavanawai first made his mark in Super Rugby with Moana Pasifika before joining the Highlanders. His consistent performances, strong leadership qualities and trademark smile have made him a standout personality in the competition this season.