SPORT | IN BRIEF
Armstrong Tour hopes dashed
CYCLING: Lance Armstrong’s hopes of winning an eighth Tour de France are all but over after just lost more than 11 minutes in a disastrous eighth stage in the mountains.
The American fell twice after losing contact with the leading group, and now finds himself 13.26 minutes behind overall leader Cadel Evans.
“My Tour has finished,” said 38-year-old Armstrong. “But I will stay in the race.”
Luxembourg’s Andy Schleck outsprinted Samuel Sanchez to take the stage and moves up into second place, 20 seconds behind Evans.
Botha handed nine-week ban
RUGBY UNION: South Africa lock Bakkies Botha has received a nine-week ban for headbutting New Zealand scrum-half Jimmy Cowan during his side’s crushing 32-12 defeat to the All Blacks in Auckland on Saturday.
Botha butted the back of Cowan’s head while both men were grounded, chasing a loose ball.
He is not eligible to play until the final game of the Tri-Nations series, against Australia, on 4 September.
All Blacks coach Graham Henry said of the punishment: “He’s got a history. He’s probably lucky he didn’t get more than nine weeks.”
Wolves are closing in
RUGBY LEAGUE: Warrington moved to within four points of leaders Wigan in the Super League after running in nine tries in a 50-32 demolition of Castleford.
Richie Myler touched down for a hat-trick for the Wolves, while Joe Westerman scored two of the Tigers’ six tries.
In the other game, Huddersfield Giants also ran in six tries as they beat Crusaders 30-12.