SportsNewsIreland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/ Sports News, Live GAA scores, GAA fixtures Tue, 02 Dec 2025 09:56:57 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://i0.wp.com/www.sportsnewsireland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/sni-icon.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 SportsNewsIreland https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/ 32 32 229439223 Northern Ireland’s Play-Off Push: A Campaign Nobody Could Read Properly https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/soccer/soccer-irish/northern-irelands-play-off-push-a-campaign-nobody-could-read-properly https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/soccer/soccer-irish/northern-irelands-play-off-push-a-campaign-nobody-could-read-properly#respond Tue, 02 Dec 2025 09:56:57 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34987 Northern Ireland’s Play-Off Push: A Campaign Nobody Could Read Properly Northern Ireland didn’t have a clean qualifying campaign. They didn’t build momentum or fall apart. It was something messier, the kind of run where every match felt like it could tilt either way. Analysts didn’t know what to make of them. Even betting traders on […]

The post Northern Ireland’s Play-Off Push: A Campaign Nobody Could Read Properly appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
Northern Ireland’s Play-Off Push: A Campaign Nobody Could Read Properly

Northern Ireland didn’t have a clean qualifying campaign. They didn’t build momentum or fall apart. It was something messier, the kind of run where every match felt like it could tilt either way. Analysts didn’t know what to make of them. Even betting traders on bet Malawi couldn’t get a consistent feel for this team because their matches never followed the expected rhythm.

A Group Where Nothing Came Easy

Germany, Slovakia, Luxembourg.
 On paper, it looked predictable.
 In reality, Northern Ireland kept making the group awkward.

The start was steady with the 3–1 win in Luxembourg which is one of those results where early models barely react because it’s “supposed” to happen. Then Germany beat them 3–1 in Cologne, but the match wasn’t the blowout people expected. Germany had to work. Northern Ireland didn’t fold. You could actually see live projections settle again after the early wobble because the match stayed structured rather than chaotic.

And then came the night that confused almost everyone:
 2–0 over Slovakia in Belfast.
 Slovakia arrived as favourites in most pre-match predictions, but Northern Ireland played like the stronger side. The early own goal didn’t flatten Slovakia as Northern Ireland did. Anyone watching the live numbers saw the shift. The pause. The recalculation. For once, Northern Ireland looked not like spoilers, but like the team setting the terms.

The Type of Matches That Leave No Middle Ground

Northern Ireland’s problem is that they don’t close the door when they should.
 The Slovakia game in Košice was the perfect example.

They defended for almost the entire match. They were seconds from a result that would’ve changed the whole trajectory of the group. And then a 91st-minute goal. One moment that changed everything: the table, the mood, the in-game models, the sense of momentum. Ballard’s red card after that made it feel even heavier.

But Northern Ireland being Northern Ireland, they pushed that aside and beat Luxembourg 1–0 three days later. Slow match, one big moment, done. A match that looks boring to some fans but weirdly predictable to anyone who has followed this team for years.

They Get In Through the Side Door

Finishing third normally ends the story.
 But the Nations League ranking system threw them a lifeline. Results elsewhere fell into place, and Northern Ireland slipped into the play-offs without winning anything that night. A strange mix: the bitterness of the loss in Slovakia and the quiet confirmation that they were still alive.

Why They’re a Nightmare to Forecast

Northern Ireland confuse every type of observer because they don’t behave like a “normal” team. They rarely collapse.
 Only six goals conceded in the entire group. Against Germany twice. That stability makes their matches low-event, and low-event matches are always hard to read.

They don’t score much.
 Seven goals total. That means their games almost always land in tight scorelines, where one mistake or one set piece wipes out whatever was expected.

Home games bend the mood.
 Windsor Park didn’t just lift the team against Slovakia, it changed the tone of the match. You could actually feel the difference through the screen.

Northern Ireland matches often sit in that zone bettors call “knife-edge football” and its not chaos, not control, just constantly waiting for one moment.

Their Real Chances? Hard to Pin Down

Northern Ireland won’t go into the play-offs as favourites.
 They’ll be labelled “awkward,” “stubborn,” “defensive,” the usual things people say when they don’t know how to categorise a team.

But there’s something about knockout football that fits them.
 A slow match.
 A quiet first half.
 One header.
 One loose ball in the box.
 One set piece.

They’re not built to dominate.
 They’re built to hang around longer than they should.

And when the match shrinks to one moment Northern Ireland are exactly the kind of team that can turn that moment into something bigger

The post Northern Ireland’s Play-Off Push: A Campaign Nobody Could Read Properly appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/soccer/soccer-irish/northern-irelands-play-off-push-a-campaign-nobody-could-read-properly/feed 0 34987
Paula Doherty Elected First Female President of GAA Rounders https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/gaa/paula-doherty-elected-first-female-president-of-gaa-rounders https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/gaa/paula-doherty-elected-first-female-president-of-gaa-rounders#respond Mon, 01 Dec 2025 09:51:26 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34982 Paula Doherty Elected First Female President of GAA Rounders Paula Doherty, from Castlebar, Co Mayo, has been elected as the first female President of GAA Rounders — a landmark moment for the sport and a hugely popular appointment across the country. A current All-Star and a key member of the dominant Breaffy Senior Ladies team […]

The post Paula Doherty Elected First Female President of GAA Rounders appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
Paula Doherty Elected First Female President of GAA Rounders

Paula Doherty, from Castlebar, Co Mayo, has been elected as the first female President of GAA Rounders — a landmark moment for the sport and a hugely popular appointment across the country. A current All-Star and a key member of the dominant Breaffy Senior Ladies team that won four All-Ireland titles in a row, Paula brings both on-field success and deep administrative experience to the role.

Outside of Rounders, she works in education as Programme Director in St Angela’s College, Sligo, where her background in leadership, organisation, and student support has shaped her reputation for calm, steady, and practical decision-making.

Over the past decade she has become one of the most respected figures in the sport, contributing to juvenile development, national structures, and club growth, while earning widespread trust from volunteers and clubs alike.

Accepting the role, Paula kept her message grounded and focused on the people who drive the sport forward:

“It’s a privilege to take on this position. My only aim is to do right by the clubs, the volunteers, and the players who keep this sport alive every single week.”

While acknowledging the significance of her election, she was quick to place the emphasis back on the work ahead:

“Being the first woman to hold the role is something I’m proud of. But what matters now is the work. Titles are one thing — getting things done is another.”

Drawing on themes she discussed in her interview, Paula highlighted structure, communication, and stability as the central priorities of her presidency:

“People want clarity, consistency, and respect. If we get our systems right — fixtures, communication, development, refereeing — everything else will follow.”

She also emphasised the need to rebuild trust and support the growing number of clubs nationwide:

“This sport has huge potential, but potential only becomes progress when everyone feels listened to. That’s the standard I’m setting for myself and for the Association.”

Paula closed her speech by thanking those who encouraged her to step forward:

“I didn’t put myself into this lightly. I care about Rounders, and I’ll give the job everything I have.”

Her election has been warmly welcomed, with clubs across the country viewing her presidency as a fresh chapter and a steadying influence at a key moment for the sport.

The post Paula Doherty Elected First Female President of GAA Rounders appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/gaa/paula-doherty-elected-first-female-president-of-gaa-rounders/feed 0 34982
Irish Players at the 2025/26 PDC World Darts Championship – Full Fixtures, Dates and Start Times https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/other_sports/irish-players-at-the-2025-26-pdc-world-darts-championship-full-fixtures-dates-and-start-times https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/other_sports/irish-players-at-the-2025-26-pdc-world-darts-championship-full-fixtures-dates-and-start-times#respond Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:25:15 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34976 Irish Players at the 2025/26 PDC World Darts Championship – Full Fixtures, Dates and Start Times Ireland will have seven players on the Ally Pally stage at the 2025/26 Paddy Power World Darts Championship, with Willie O’Connor, Steve Lennon, Keane Barry, Josh Rock, Daryl Gurney, Brendan Dolan and Mickey Mansell all confirmed for Round One […]

The post Irish Players at the 2025/26 PDC World Darts Championship – Full Fixtures, Dates and Start Times appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>

Irish Players at the 2025/26 PDC World Darts Championship – Full Fixtures, Dates and Start Times

Ireland will have seven players on the Ally Pally stage at the 2025/26 Paddy Power World Darts Championship, with Willie O’Connor, Steve Lennon, Keane Barry, Josh Rock, Daryl Gurney, Brendan Dolan and Mickey Mansell all confirmed for Round One action. Below is the complete list of Irish fixtures, dates and start times.


🇮🇪 Full Irish Schedule – Round One (Dates, Times, Opponents)

Steve Lennon

  • Date: Friday 12 December
  • Time: 7:00pm
  • Opponent: Damon Heta

Brendan Dolan

  • Date: Monday 15 December
  • Time: 12:30pm
  • Opponent: Tavis Dudeney

Mickey Mansell

  • Date: Friday 19 December
  • Time: 12:30pm
  • Opponent: Leonard Gates

Josh Rock

  • Date: Friday 19 December
  • Time: 12:30pm
  • Opponent: Gemma Hayter

William O’Connor

  • Date: Friday 19 December
  • Time: 7:00pm
  • Opponent: Krzysztof Kciuk

Daryl Gurney

  • Date: Friday 19 December
  • Time: 7:00pm
  • Opponent: Beau Greaves

Keane Barry

  • Date: Friday 19 December
  • Time: 7:00pm
  • Opponent: Tim Pusey

🗓 Quick Summary – Irish Fixtures by Day

Friday 12 December

  • Steve Lennon – 7:00pm

Monday 15 December

  • Brendan Dolan – 12:30pm

Friday 19 December (Huge Irish Day)

  • 12:30pm: Mickey Mansell, Josh Rock
  • 7:00pm: William O’Connor, Daryl Gurney, Keane Barry

<

The post Irish Players at the 2025/26 PDC World Darts Championship – Full Fixtures, Dates and Start Times appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/other_sports/irish-players-at-the-2025-26-pdc-world-darts-championship-full-fixtures-dates-and-start-times/feed 0 34976
Dragons RFC v Leinster Rugby – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/dragons-rfc-v-leinster-rugby-full-stats-preview-team-news-betting https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/dragons-rfc-v-leinster-rugby-full-stats-preview-team-news-betting#respond Wed, 26 Nov 2025 11:02:39 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34973 Dragons RFC v Leinster Rugby – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting Date: Friday, 28 November 2025 Venue: Rodney Parade, Newport Kick-off: 19:45 (IRE/UK) | 20:45 (ITA) | 21:45 (SA) Live on: Premier Sports, TG4, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv Match Officials Referee: Morne Ferreira (SARU) – 19th URC appearance AR 1: Craig Evans […]

The post Dragons RFC v Leinster Rugby – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
Dragons RFC v Leinster Rugby – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting

Date: Friday, 28 November 2025
Venue: Rodney Parade, Newport
Kick-off: 19:45 (IRE/UK) | 20:45 (ITA) | 21:45 (SA)
Live on: Premier Sports, TG4, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Match Officials

  • Referee: Morne Ferreira (SARU) – 19th URC appearance
  • AR 1: Craig Evans (WRU)
  • AR 2: Lucas Yendle (WRU)
  • TMO: Chris Allison (SARU)

Overview

Leinster travel to Rodney Parade as 20-point favourites, with the form guide, scoring trends and defensive numbers all pointing strongly in their direction. Dragons remain winless after five rounds and are conceding over 30 points per match, while Leinster’s attack has exploded into life in recent weeks with 81 points scored in their last two fixtures.

Despite missing several Ireland internationals through injury, Leinster’s depth remains one of the strongest in the competition and they arrive in Newport seeking a third win of the season.


Dragons RFC – 2025/26 Season Results

Match Score Result
Ulster v Dragons 42–21 Loss
Dragons v Sharks 17–17 Draw
Glasgow v Dragons 49–0 Loss
Dragons v Cardiff 17–24 Loss
Dragons v Ospreys 19–19 Draw

Record: P5 | W0 | D2 | L3
Points For: 74 | Points Against: 151
Average Score: Dragons 14.8 – 30.2 Opponents
Points Difference: –77

Key Dragons Trends

  • Conceded 42, 49 and 24 points in three losses.
  • Have yet to win a match this season.
  • Scored between 17–21 points in every game except the Glasgow result.
  • Defence statistically weakest in the URC after five rounds.

Leinster Rugby – 2025/26 Season Results

Match Score Result
Stormers v Leinster 35–0 Loss
Bulls v Leinster 39–31 Loss
Leinster v Sharks 31–5 Win
Leinster v Munster 14–31 Loss
Leinster v Zebre 50–26 Win

Record: P5 | W2 | L3
Points For: 126 | Points Against: 136
Average Score: Leinster 25.2 – 27.2 Opponents
Points Difference: –10

Key Leinster Trends

  • Scored 31, 31 and 50 points in three of their last four matches.
  • Attack improving significantly across the last two rounds.
  • Bench impact continues to be a major strength.
  • Defence inconsistent but improving at scrum and maul.

Leinster Injury Update

  • Tommy O’Brien: GRTP protocols – unavailable.
  • Ryan Baird: Leg injury – out up to 3 months.
  • Will Connors: Arm injury – out for several weeks.
  • Robbie Henshaw: Hamstring rehab – still unavailable.
  • Jamie Osborne: Shoulder injury – out up to 4 months.
  • James Culhane: Knee injury – out for next few months.

Head-to-Head (URC)

Season Fixture Score
2020/21 Dragons v Leinster 29–35
2022/23 Dragons v Leinster 10–43
2023/24 Dragons v Leinster 10–33
2024/25 Leinster v Dragons 34–6

Average Margin (last 4 meetings): Leinster by 22.5 points


Match Analysis

1. Leinster’s Power & Tempo v Dragons’ Defence

Dragons concede over 30 points per match and have already leaked 42, 49 and 24 this season. Leinster’s attack is trending upwards, making this a difficult matchup for the hosts.

2. Dragons’ Scoring Limits

Dragons have yet to score more than 21 points and were held to zero in Glasgow. Against a Leinster side that has recently rediscovered its attacking edge, that may not be enough to stay competitive.

3. Leinster’s Depth Advantage

Even with key injuries, Leinster’s second-string remains among the strongest units in the URC. Their set-piece dominance and bench impact should tilt the later stages heavily in their favour.


Betting Preview – Leinster –20

Why Leinster Are Favoured

  • Dragons winless in all five matches.
  • Dragons have conceded 151 points – the most in the league.
  • Leinster have won the last four head-to-heads by margins of 6, 33, 23 and 28.
  • Leinster scored 50 points last weekend.
  • Dragons have scored only 14–21 points in every game.

Recommended Bets

  • Leinster –20 Handicap
  • Leinster Winning Margin 21–30
  • Over Leinster 29.5 Points
  • Anytime Tryscorer: Harry Byrne, Jason Jenkins, Scott Penny
  • Dragons Under 17.5 Points

Prediction

Leinster 38–13 Dragons
Leinster’s attacking form, physical dominance and squad depth should be too much for a Dragons side struggling for confidence and defensive stability. Unless conditions are severe, Leinster should have enough to cover the handicap.


The post Dragons RFC v Leinster Rugby – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/dragons-rfc-v-leinster-rugby-full-stats-preview-team-news-betting/feed 0 34973
Connacht Rugby v Hollywoodbets Sharks – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/connacht-rugby-v-hollywoodbets-sharks-full-stats-preview-team-news-betting https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/connacht-rugby-v-hollywoodbets-sharks-full-stats-preview-team-news-betting#respond Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:48:25 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34970 Connacht Rugby v Hollywoodbets Sharks – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting Date: Saturday, 29 November 2025 Venue: Dexcom Stadium, Galway Kick-off: 19:45 (IRE/UK) | 20:45 (ITA) | 21:45 (SA) Live on: TG4, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv Match Officials Referee: Ben Breakspear (WRU) – 14th URC game AR 1: Andrew Brace […]

The post Connacht Rugby v Hollywoodbets Sharks – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
Connacht Rugby v Hollywoodbets Sharks – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting

Date: Saturday, 29 November 2025
Venue: Dexcom Stadium, Galway
Kick-off: 19:45 (IRE/UK) | 20:45 (ITA) | 21:45 (SA)
Live on: TG4, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Match Officials

  • Referee: Ben Breakspear (WRU) – 14th URC game
  • AR 1: Andrew Brace (IRFU)
  • AR 2: Jack MacNeice (IRFU)
  • TMO: Keith David (WRU)

Overview

Connacht welcome the Hollywoodbets Sharks to Galway in Round 6 of the URC, with the bookmakers installing the home side as 8-point favourites. Both teams have shown flashes of quality this season, but the statistics paint a clear picture of Connacht being the more consistent and defensively reliable of the two.

Despite sitting mid-table, Connacht have a positive points differential and all three of their defeats have come by a single score. The Sharks, meanwhile, remain unpredictable and have struggled defensively on the road, conceding over 27 points per game.


Connacht – Season Results (2025/26)

Match Score Result
Connacht v Benetton 26–15 Win
Cardiff v Connacht 14–8 Loss
Connacht v Bulls 27–28 Loss
Munster v Connacht 17–15 Loss
Connacht v Scarlets Postponed

Record: P4 | W1 | L3
Points For: 76 | Points Against: 74
Average Score: Connacht 19 – 18 Opponents

Connacht have lost games by 6, 1 and 2 points, underlining that performance levels remain strong. Their defence, conceding just 18.5 points per match, is among the best in the league to date.


Sharks – Season Results (2025/26)

Match Score Result
Glasgow v Sharks 35–19 Loss
Dragons v Sharks 17–17 Draw
Leinster v Sharks 31–5 Loss
Ulster v Sharks 34–26 Loss
Sharks v Scarlets 29–19 Win

Record: P5 | W1 | D1 | L3
Points For: 96 | Points Against: 136
Average Score: Sharks 19 – 27 Opponents

The Sharks have conceded 30+ points in three of their five matches and remain winless away from home this season. Their defence has been the most inconsistent element of their campaign.


Form Guide & Key Statistics

Connacht

  • Positive points differential (+2) despite a losing record.
  • Conceding only 18.5 points per match.
  • Two-point loss away to Munster shows improvement in tight games.
  • Mack Hansen and Byron Ralston remain injury concerns.
  • New signing Sam Gilbert could make his Connacht debut.

Sharks

  • –40 points differential across five games.
  • Conceding 27.2 points per match.
  • Winless in all away fixtures.
  • Jean Smith and Vincent Tshituka are the main attacking threats.
  • Siya Kolisi remains a turnover machine at the breakdown.

Head-to-Head (URC)

Season Fixture Score
2021/22 Sharks v Connacht 21–20
2022/23 Connacht v Sharks 24–12
2023/24 Sharks v Connacht 31–19
2024/25 Connacht v Sharks 36–31

Average total points: 47.5
Average Connacht score: 24.8
Average Sharks score: 22.8

Three of the four meetings have been decided by seven points or fewer, though Connacht’s scoring output at home tends to be significantly higher.


Betting Preview – Connacht –8

Why Connacht Are Favourites

  • Sharks concede almost 9 points more per game than Connacht.
  • Connacht’s home performances include a win and a one-point loss to the Bulls.
  • Sharks have not won away this season.
  • Connacht’s defeats have been by extremely narrow margins.

Suggested Bets

  • Connacht –8 Handicap (most statistical support)
  • Connacht to Win by 6–12 Points
  • Under 50.5 Total Points (weather-dependent)
  • Anytime Tryscorer: Josh Ioane or Vincent Tshituka

Prediction

Connacht 24–16 Sharks
Home strength, defensive control and better discipline should carry Connacht through. Sharks will threaten in moments, but Connacht’s consistency and structure point to a steady, controlled victory.

The post Connacht Rugby v Hollywoodbets Sharks – Full Stats Preview, Team News & Betting appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/connacht-rugby-v-hollywoodbets-sharks-full-stats-preview-team-news-betting/feed 0 34970
URC Rugby Betting Lines Swing Wild as International Call-Ups Hit Welsh & Italian Sides https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/urc-rugby-betting-lines-swing-wild-as-international-call-ups-hit-welsh-italian-sides https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/urc-rugby-betting-lines-swing-wild-as-international-call-ups-hit-welsh-italian-sides#respond Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:14:23 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34965 URC Betting Lines Swing Wild as International Call-Ups Hit Welsh & Italian Sides The opening URC handicap lines landed on Monday morning, but it didn’t take long for the bookmakers to react. By Tuesday, several fixtures had already seen major line movement — with international call-ups playing a huge role in shifting the odds. Wales […]

The post URC Rugby Betting Lines Swing Wild as International Call-Ups Hit Welsh & Italian Sides appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
URC Betting Lines Swing Wild as International Call-Ups Hit Welsh & Italian Sides

The opening URC handicap lines landed on Monday morning, but it didn’t take long for the bookmakers to react. By Tuesday, several fixtures had already seen major line movement — with international call-ups playing a huge role in shifting the odds.

Wales are in action this weekend, meaning the Welsh regions are missing multiple front-line players. Cardiff, Ospreys, Scarlets, and Dragons have all been affected, and the market corrected aggressively once squads became clearer.

On the Italian side, there are growing concerns that not all of Benetton’s Italian internationals will line out, triggering one of the biggest handicap swings of the round. With depth tested and uncertainty surrounding selection, punters have quickly moved against the Treviso outfit.

Meanwhile, Irish provinces have held steady, and the South African sides — who are now back after Champions Cup commitments — are beginning to settle into their winter rhythm.


URC Handicap Line Movement – Monday → Tuesday

Dragons vs Leinster

  • Opening: Dragons +18
  • Tuesday: +21

Leinster have been backed hard from the start. Dragons are badly hit by Welsh call-ups, and the market doesn’t fancy their depth against a Leinster side that rarely shows mercy.

Ulster vs Benetton

  • Opening: Ulster -8
  • Tuesday: -15

The biggest Irish swing of the week. The market reacted immediately once doubts emerged about Benetton’s access to their Italy internationals.

Bulls vs Lions

  • Opening: Bulls -11
  • Tuesday: -12

A small but steady move toward the Bulls.

Zebre vs Cardiff

  • Opening: Zebre -1
  • Tuesday: -7

Cardiff have lost several starters to Wales duty, leading to strong support for Zebre.

Edinburgh vs Ospreys

  • Opening: Edinburgh -13
  • Tuesday: -23

The most dramatic move of the round — a ten-point swing driven by Ospreys’ depleted squad.

Munster vs Stormers

  • Opening: Munster -7
  • Tuesday: -7

No change. The market remains confident in the original number.

Connacht vs Sharks

  • Opening: Connacht -8
  • Tuesday: -8

Unchanged. Both sides priced accurately from the start.

Scarlets vs Glasgow

  • Opening: Scarlets +11
  • Tuesday: +14

Scarlets drifting due to Welsh call-ups, while Glasgow remain firm favourites.


The Big Picture

Wales call-ups hurting Welsh URC teams.
Italian uncertainty hurting Benetton.
Irish lines holding steady.

The early value has already been hit — but further movement is likely once squads are confirmed.

The post URC Rugby Betting Lines Swing Wild as International Call-Ups Hit Welsh & Italian Sides appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/urc-rugby-betting-lines-swing-wild-as-international-call-ups-hit-welsh-italian-sides/feed 0 34965
List of Top 10 at Number 10: Irish Rugby Players at Out-Half https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/list-of-top-10-at-number-10-irish-rugby-players-at-out-half https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/list-of-top-10-at-number-10-irish-rugby-players-at-out-half#respond Tue, 25 Nov 2025 08:04:26 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=13897 There is so much debate about the Out Half position for the Ireland rugby team, we look at the top ten players who could wear the number 10 shirt at the next world cup. Ireland has more out-half options than at any point in the last decade, but opinions on pecking order vary wildly depending […]

The post List of Top 10 at Number 10: Irish Rugby Players at Out-Half appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
There is so much debate about the Out Half position for the Ireland rugby team, we look at the top ten players who could wear the number 10 shirt at the next world cup.

Ireland has more out-half options than at any point in the last decade, but opinions on pecking order vary wildly depending on who you ask. This is one ranking — a straight, honest depth chart based on current form, reliability, potential, and what each player brings heading into the end of 2025.

Below is Joe’s personal ranking of the top 10 Irish-qualified 10s, in order, with clear factual context for each.

1. Harry Byrne

Byrne has finally had a long, uninterrupted run of games, and his control, kicking accuracy, and game-management have matured massively. When fully fit, he is one of the most composed out-halves in Ireland, and his skillset suits modern test rugby.

2. Sam Prendergast

Still young, still developing, but his ceiling is enormous. Prendergast brings creativity, long passing range, and a booming left boot. He is already a central figure in Leinster’s long-term planning and continues to grow into the shirt.

3. Jack Crowley

Crowley remains a high-quality operator with strong all-round fundamentals. He has plenty of big-game mileage with Munster and remains one of Ireland’s safest and most experienced options in the position.

4. Ciarán Frawley

Frawley is the most versatile back in the country — able to play 10, 12, and 15. That flexibility sometimes pushes him out of the pure 10 conversation, but his distribution, kicking game, and control make him a top-tier option when needed.

5. Casper Gabriel

A young talent who has gathered momentum through provincial development systems. Gabriel is still very much a prospect, but his potential is the reason he ranks this high. Strong technically and highly rated by those who have watched him closely.

6. JJ Hanrahan

The experienced head on the list. Hanrahan has played in multiple leagues, understands the position inside out, and remains a reliable, steady 10 who can step in and control a game with maturity.

7. Jack McGrath

Another player viewed as a developing option with a tidy kicking game and good tactical shape. Still progressing, but clearly talented enough to be included in the national discussion as depth builds.

8. Sean Naughton

A younger option, improving year on year. Shows sharp decision-making, good organisation, and has the raw tools to push further up the rankings with more game time and refinement.

9. Jack Carty

One of the most experienced out-halves in the country. While others have overtaken him in long-term projection, Carty’s passing range and composure keep him relevant and useful in any ranking.

10. Tony Butler

Still early in his senior career, but progressing well. Butler has shown confidence and solid fundamentals, earning his place on the list as another promising Munster-developed 10 with room to grow.

The post List of Top 10 at Number 10: Irish Rugby Players at Out-Half appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/rugby/rugby_irish/list-of-top-10-at-number-10-irish-rugby-players-at-out-half/feed 0 13897
Republic of Ireland Drawn Away to Czechia in World Cup Play-Off https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/soccer/republic-of-ireland-drawn-away-to-czechia-in-world-cup-play-off https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/soccer/republic-of-ireland-drawn-away-to-czechia-in-world-cup-play-off#respond Thu, 20 Nov 2025 13:03:47 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34959 Republic of Ireland Drawn Away to Czechia in World Cup Play-Off The Republic of Ireland will have to navigate a tricky away tie against old rivals Czechia in their bid to reach the World Cup finals. If Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side can win that semi-final, they will host the winners of the other last-four clash between […]

The post Republic of Ireland Drawn Away to Czechia in World Cup Play-Off appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
Republic of Ireland Drawn Away to Czechia in World Cup Play-Off

The Republic of Ireland will have to navigate a tricky away tie against old rivals Czechia in their bid to reach the World Cup finals.

If Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side can win that semi-final, they will host the winners of the other last-four clash between Denmark and North Macedonia in a home final on 31 March.

Thursday’s draw placed Ireland in the same path as Wales, Poland, Slovakia and Czechia, but it is the Czechs who await the Boys in Green on 26 March, with the semi-final set to be played away from home.

Czechia, currently ranked 44th in the world, have won four of their eight meetings with Ireland since the breakup of Czechoslovakia. The most recent competitive encounters came in the Euro 2008 qualifiers, where Ireland lost 1–0 in Prague before a 1–1 draw in Dublin.

While Ireland will be relieved to have avoided Poland, the Czechia tie presents its own complications for travelling supporters.

The Czech FA have rotated venues for their qualifiers, using stadiums in Prague, Olomouc, Hradec Králové and Plzen. Although the host venue has yet to be confirmed, Prague is almost certain to be selected.

However, the expected venue — the Fortuna Arena — has a capacity of just 19,500. With the FAI only entitled to five per cent of away allocation, that leaves Irish fans facing the reality of roughly 1,000 tickets for travelling supporters.

The post Republic of Ireland Drawn Away to Czechia in World Cup Play-Off appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/soccer/republic-of-ireland-drawn-away-to-czechia-in-world-cup-play-off/feed 0 34959
Rory McIlroy’s Irish Open triumph: A homecoming to remember https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/other_sports/rory-mcilroys-irish-open-triumph-a-homecoming-to-remember https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/other_sports/rory-mcilroys-irish-open-triumph-a-homecoming-to-remember#respond Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:57:02 +0000 https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=34957 Rory McIlroy produced one of the most memorable victories of his career at the Irish Open, giving the home supporters plenty to cheer at The K Club. It was the kind of weekend that had fans following every shot closely, and for those keeping an eye on the action with a free bet no deposit […]

The post Rory McIlroy’s Irish Open triumph: A homecoming to remember appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
Rory McIlroy produced one of the most memorable victories of his career at the Irish Open, giving the home supporters plenty to cheer at The K Club.

It was the kind of weekend that had fans following every shot closely, and for those keeping an eye on the action with a free bet no deposit offer, it was the perfect finish to an entertaining tournament.

McIlroy’s closing stretch will be remembered for his remarkable play on the 18th hole during the final round. Knowing he needed an eagle to stay in contention, he calmly rolled in a 25-foot putt to reach 17-under and force a playoff with Sweden’s Joakim Lagergren. The reaction from the Irish crowd was immediate, with a huge cheer breaking out that showed just how much the moment meant to those watching on home soil.

The playoff took place on the par-5 18th hole and stretched across three tense attempts. Both players matched birdies on the first two occasions, demonstrating composure under pressure. On the third trip down the hole, McIlroy pushed his tee shot into the rough but recovered well with a solid second shot that found the green.

Lagergren, by contrast, found trouble when his second attempt landed in the water hazard. That mistake left McIlroy in control, and after two putts for birdie, he had the advantage. Lagergren needed to chip in from off the green to extend the playoff, but his effort just missed, confirming McIlroy as the champion.

The win gave McIlroy his second Irish Open title, following his success at the same venue in 2016. It also marked his 45th career victory on the DP World Tour, underlining both his consistency and his ability to perform under pressure. The atmosphere created by the Irish fans added to the occasion, and the roar that greeted his eagle putt on the 72nd hole will be one of the standout memories of the week.

This latest success comes during what has already been an impressive year for McIlroy. Having captured the Masters earlier in the season to complete the career Grand Slam, he is enjoying one of the most consistent runs of form of his career. With the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black just around the corner, Europe will be hoping their star man can carry this momentum into the team event as they look to defend the trophy against the United States.

McIlroy will also head to the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth with confidence high, and supporters will be eager to see whether he can continue to add to his tally of wins. For fans who enjoy following golf with a small wager, there will no doubt be interest in backing him again, with a free bet often providing an easy way to join the excitement.

In the end, the Irish Open was another reminder of McIlroy’s enduring quality and his ability to deliver when it matters. It may not have been the most dominant win of his career, but it was one that showcased his resilience, patience, and connection with the Irish fans who continue to support him passionately.

The post Rory McIlroy’s Irish Open triumph: A homecoming to remember appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/other_sports/rory-mcilroys-irish-open-triumph-a-homecoming-to-remember/feed 0 34957
List of live GAA matches on Sky Sports, TG4, GAA+ & RTE https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/gaa/list-of-51-gaa-live-matches-scheduled-to-be-shown-on-tv-by-rte-sky-sports https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/gaa/list-of-51-gaa-live-matches-scheduled-to-be-shown-on-tv-by-rte-sky-sports#respond Tue, 18 Nov 2025 15:02:16 +0000 http://www.sportsnewsireland.com/?p=121 We have the list of live GAA matches that will be broadcast live on Online, GAAGO, Clubber, Sky Sports & RTE, here are the fixtures Hurling and Gaelic Football league and championships. CLICK FOR LIVE GAA SCORES CLICK FOR List of Live GAA Matches on Clubber Here’s a full list of this week’s fixtures from the […]

The post List of live GAA matches on Sky Sports, TG4, GAA+ & RTE appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
We have the list of live GAA matches that will be broadcast live on Online, GAAGO, Clubber, Sky Sports & RTE, here are the fixtures Hurling and Gaelic Football league and championships.

CLICK FOR LIVE GAA SCORES

CLICK FOR List of Live GAA Matches on Clubber Here’s a full list of this week’s fixtures from the image, grouped by county:

Next weekend’s TV GAA club games:

Live GAA Games on TG4 – Sunday, 23 November

1.30pm – Leinster SHC Semi-Final
St Martin’s (Wexford) v Naas (Kildare)

3.30pm – Ulster SFC Semi-Final
Scotstown (Monaghan) v Newbridge (Derry)

This Week’s Fixtures on Clubber TV

Leinster Club (Hurling)

Sat, Nov 22nd
Lusmagh v Ratoath — 1:00pm
Longford Slashers v Amsterdam — 1:00pm
Danesfort v Commercials — 1:30pm
Clane v Clonad — 1:30pm
Barrow Rangers v Davidstown C. — 1:30pm

Sun, Nov 23rd
Ballyhale Shamrocks v Clough B. — 1:30pm

Corn Uí Dhúill (Hurling)

Tue, Nov 18th
CM Johnstown v CM Mullingar — 12:00pm

Wed, Nov 19th
St Peter’s College v Enniscorthy CBS — 12:30pm
Kilkenny CBS v St Kieran’s College — 2:30pm

Br. Bosco Cup (Football)

Thu, Nov 20th
Ardscoil na Trionoide v Moate CS — 12:00pm

Fri, Nov 21st
Knockbeg v Coláiste Choilm — 11:30am

Munster Camogie

Sat, Nov 22nd
St Finbarrs v De La Salle — 1:00pm

Sun, Nov 23rd
Moycarkey–Borris v Ballincollig — 1:00pm
Patrickswell v Clooney Quin — 1:00pm

Munster Club (Football)

Sat, Nov 22nd
Ballymacelligott v Clonmel Óg — 1:00pm
Ahane v Buttevant — 1:00pm

Sun, Nov 23rd
Dingle v Mungret St Paul’s — 1:00pm
An Ghaeltacht v Corofin — 1:00pm
Askeaton/BALKill/Aghabullogue — 1:00pm
Éire Óg Inis v St Finbarr’s — 3:30pm

Dr. Harty Cup (Hurling)

Wed, Nov 19th
De La Salle v CBS Midleton — 12:00pm
Blackwater CS v John The Baptist — 1:30pm
Cashel CS v Nenagh CBS — 1:30pm
St Flannans v Árdscoil Rís — 1:45pm
CBC Cork v St Joseph’s Tulla — 1:45pm
Gaelcholáiste Mhuire v Our Ladys — 1:45pm

Tipperary (Hurling)

Sun, Nov 23rd
Ballingarry v St Patrick’s — 2:00pm

The post List of live GAA matches on Sky Sports, TG4, GAA+ & RTE appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

]]>
https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/gaa/list-of-51-gaa-live-matches-scheduled-to-be-shown-on-tv-by-rte-sky-sports/feed 0 121