Alonso pips Schumacher in thriller

FERNANDO ALONSO resisted huge pressure from rampant defending world champion Michael Schumacher to seize a thrilling victory and complete a Formula One hat-trick in yesterday’s San Marino Grand Prix.

The young Spaniard, showing the verve and calm temperament of a future champion himself, steered his Renault to a third straight win to confirm his early-season leadership of this year’s title race on Ferrari’s home soil.

Seven-time champion Schumacher had to be content with roaring home just a split second behind Alonso.