41.   The Rome club can still qualify for the UEFA Cup next season despite its current seventh-place standing.

42.   The Tigers won consecutive games for just the second time this season despite one error in the field and several on the basepaths.

43.   The Vancouver Canucks, who have been struggling this season despite the addition of Mark Messier, announced Friday they have signed holdout restricted free agent Alexander Mogilny.

44.   Tourism increased during the peak December travel season despite negative publicity about Mexico that caused some hoteliers to worry.

45.   Until Thursday, Burress had not missed a practice all season despite the injury.

46.   Hibernian stayed fourth after hanging on to secure their first home win of the season despite a late Falkirk rally at Easter Road.

47.   And Klinsmann is convinced Spurs boss Francis will certainly be at White Hart Lane next season despite speculation over his future as well.

48.   Birmingham finished mid-table in the English first division this season despite some frantic transfer dealings by Fry.

49.   Before Paris, he had failed to win a tournament this season despite reaching the finals at Dubai, Monte Carlo and Madrid.

50.   Ferguson also insisted that United will be challenging for honours again next season despite the controversial clearout from Old Trafford.