Lille cops admit shooting Toffees

Football: Lille police confirmed yesterday that they had fired rubber bullets at Everton supporters in the city’s Grand Place square before the club’s 0-0 Europa League draw on Thursday night.

A spokesman claimed that officers had acted in self-defence, tear-gassing and shooting at the football fans to “drive back the rioters.”

Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson said the police’s actions appeared to be “totally disproportionate” and urged returning fans to contact him. Everton also has urged travelling supporters to get in touch through the club’s website.

Pakistan power ahead of Aussies

Cricket: David Warner’s third consecutive century was not enough to keep Australia in touch with Pakistan, who ended day three of the first Test in Dubai yesterday in an ominous position.

The Baggy Greens started the day on 113-0 thanks to an encouraging Warner-Chris Rodgers partnership at the tail end of Thursday.

But Rogers was soon bowled by Rahat Ali on 128 and Australia wrapped up their innings on 303 all-out. Pakistan then racked-up 38 in 13 overs without loss, leading by 189.

Poulter slams sexist PGA boss

Golf: Ian Poulter condemned US PGA chief Ted Bishop yesterday for making sexist remarks.

Seemingly outraged by Poulter’s criticisms of US Ryder Cup captains Tom Watson and Nick Faldo in a new book, Bishop ridiculed the Englishman’s record and called him a “lil girl.”

Poulter said Bishop’s Twitter comments were “pretty shocking and disappointing.”

Murray through to Valencia semis

Tennis: Andy Murray saw off a stern test by Kevin Anderson yesterday to progress to the semi-finals of the Valencia Open.

The world number 10 slogged his way to a 6-7 (3/7) 6-4 6-4 win over the seventh-seeded South African in two hours and 43 minutes.