2012.5.11 Weekend Picks
Published: 10 May. 2012, 20:21
Ulsan Hyundai FC (7-3-1) at Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (5-3-3)
Jeonju World Cup Stadium, North Jeolla
Friday, 7 p.m.
This is a rematch of last year’s K-League championship, but while defending champion Jeonbuk sits in sixth place, Ulsan is currently sitting atop the league table.
Ulsan was last year’s strongest defensive team and this year, the team is also holding its own on the back line. So far, they have allowed just six goals, tied for the league’s fewest goals allowed with the Suwon Samsung Bluewings.
The key to the game will be how Ulsan’s attacking trio, Lee Keun-ho, Ko Seul-ki and Brazilian forward Luis Carlos Dos Santos Martins perform.
Jeonbuk will match them with reigning K-League MVP Lee Dong-gook, who is also the top scorer in the league with seven goals, and Enio, the Brazilian midfielder who is awaiting Korean citizenship.
KBO
Samsung Lions (11-13) at LG Twins (13-11)
Jamsil Stadium, Seoul
Friday 6:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 5 p.m.
Two traditional rivals clash again after meeting in the season opener in Daegu. The defending champion Lions were swept in their first series of 2012, but will look for revenge in Seoul this weekend.
The Lions’ offense is led by veteran Lee Seung-yeop, who has the second-best batting average in the league, but last year’s home run king Choi Hyung-woo is struggling to find his form, hitting just 0.185.
The Twins lead the league in steals, so the Lions’ pitchers and catchers will have to keep an eye on the bases. The hosts recently switched closers, with Bong Jung-keun replacing Radhames Liz, who has struggled thus far, throwing walks and blowing saves.
For this three-game series, the Twins announced that they have set up special events for lady fans in attendance.
KPGA
GS Caltex Maekyung Open
Namseoul Country Club, Seongnam, Gyeonggi
Thursday to Sunday
The 31st edition of the golf event started yesterday with 156 players in the field. The tournament, which is co-sanctioned by the KPGA and One Asia Tour, has a total purse of 1 billion won ($875,000).
All eyes are on whether Kim Kyung-tae, last year’s top prize money earner, can successfully defend his title.
If Kim manages to win, he will be the first golfer to win the event three times and clinch back-to-back titles.
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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