Cantwell dies: Noel Cantwell, one of Ireland's greatest international soccer players and a leading light at Man. United in the 1960s, died yesterday aged 73. Cantwell, who also represented his country in international cricket, died in hospital following a short illness. The Cork-born all rounder began his professional career at West Ham in the mid-50s before being signed by Matt Busby for Manchester United when he was 29. He went on to captain a team that included Bobby Charlton, Denis Law, and Harry Gregg, steering them to an FA Cup final triumph over Leicester in 1963.

Ramos: Sergio Ramos, the most expensive defender to sign for Real Madrid, says he hopes to justify the 27 million euros the club paid for him by helping them win a trophy this season. "I can't really answer the question as to whether I'm worth the money, it would be better to ask the person who paid it," he said. "What I can say, however, is that I consider myself as a player who will work hard, give of their best and I'm sure I will help bring success to Real in what is a very important season for the club."

Local results: Division II/III KO - Dingli vs Kalkara 6-1; Sta Venera vs Sta Lucija 2-1; Sirens vs Ghaxaq 1-0; Birzebbuga vs Zejtun 2-0. Youths - St Andrews vs Marsaxlokk 2-0; Siggiewi vs Zurrieq 9-2; Rabat vs San Gwann 3-2; Attard vs Msida 1-0. GFA Independence Cup - Victoria H. vs St Lawrence 1-1 (aet; Victoria win 4-2 on pens); Sannat vs Xewkija 2-2 (aet; Xewkija win 5-4 on pens).

Cricket: England were 319-7 at the close of play against Australia on the first day of the fifth and final Ashes test at The Oval yesterday. Scores: England 319-7 (A. Strauss 129, A. Flintoff 72; Warne 5-118) vs Australia.