The Sport Matrix: Monday 21 April 2014

Rodgers reveals Hillsborough words inspired win

Brendan Rodgers used the words of Hillsborough justice campaigner Margaret Aspinall to focus his Liverpool players ahead of their crucial 3-2 victory at Norwich. Raheem Sterling struck twice and Luis Suarez found the net for Liverpool, who opened up a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League.

“I used some words of Margaret Aspinall: we put them up on the wall,” revealed Rodgers after the game. “She said that ‘stress is difficult – but stress is also good. It gives you a determination to fight’.” The words were put up in three languages so that all the players could understand. MORE

Moyes determined to keep Welbeck as United lose again

David Moyes insisted that Manchester United “were on track to make changes”, but said he would attempt to keep Danny Welbeck at Old Trafford despite reports that the England striker wishes to leave the club. United fell to a 2-0 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park and Moyes stated afterwards there was still a place in his side for the forward.

“Danny Welbeck is extremely important to me and I really value him,” Moyes said.

“There have been a lot of stories about him but I can only tell you that Danny is really important to me, and really important to Manchester United.” MORE

Podolski double helps Arsenal win

Lukas Podolski struck twice as Arsenal defeated Hull 3-0 to strengthen their pursuit of a fourth-place finish. Aaron Ramsey found the net before Podolski scored either side of the break for Arsène Wenger’s side, as Mesut Özil impressed on his return from injury. MORE

Westwood savours victory in Malaysia

Lee Westwood clinched the 40th title of his career, overcoming a four-hour weather delay to win the Malaysian Open by seven shots. “I’m delighted,” he said. “My short game was good and tee to green I was solid.” MORE

Cook enthused by ‘brilliant’ Moores

England captain Alastair Cook has thrown his support behind new coach Peter Moores. “When I heard it was Mooresy I was really excited by it,” Cook said. “He’s a really good coach, a brilliant coach, in fact.” MORE

Comment: Stephen Brenkley

England’s new head coach Peter Moores must hit the ground not so much running as at the speed of light. Defeat against Scotland is unthinkable. It would make his return untenable from the off. MORE

City suffer second straight defeat

Manchester City suffered their second successive Women’s Super League defeat, falling 2-0 at home to Bristol Academy. Steph Houghton scored an own goal in the 10th minute before Angharad James fired home from 15 yards out seven minutes later.

Hamilton thrilled with third victory

Lewis Hamilton eased to victory in China to win three straight races for the first time in his career. “Honestly, I can’t believe how amazing the car is,” he said. His Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg took second.

Saints hold off London Irish

Northampton held off a spirited comeback by London Irish to win 36-21. Saints led 24-0 at half-time but then conceded three tries as Irish rallied, but their revival proved in vain as Alex Waller scored for Northampton. MORE