Could the Irish Rugby Team see More Success in this Year’s Rugby World Cup?

We are now just a few weeks away from the Rugby World Cup with hosts France opening the tournament against the All Blacks on September 8.

Rugby world cup odds currently have the two teams as the favorites for the tournament with New Zealand’s All Blacks narrowly leading the way ahead of Le XV de France.

Among the rest of the more favored teams are Ireland who bookmakers have just below New Zealand and France. The team, led by head coach Andy Farrell, had a disappointing campaign in the 2019 Rugby World Cup. They exited the tournament in the quarterfinals in a heavy 46-14 defeat at the hands of New Zealand. This came after their second place finish in Pool A where they suffered one of the biggest shock defeats in the history of the sport when they lost 19-12 to hosts Japan.

A new path

Head coach Joe Schmidt stepped down after the tournament as he had previously announced at the end of 2018. In his place came current coach Andy Ferrell, who had previously been the Ireland defence coach. A lot of their hopes will be pinned on him in the forthcoming World Cup and he has settled into life well since taking the reigns at the Aviva Stadium.

He currently has a record of 18-4 as head coach with some big wins over the likes of England, Wales and New Zealand. His rejigging of the squad came to a head in 2023 when he led Ireland to a Grand Slam-Six Nations win. It was just the fourth time in the teams history, that they had completed the Grand Slam and that performance catapulted them to the forefront of the favorites for the World Cup.

Farrell’s form as coach has breathed a new lease of life into the Irish team ad they are in good form and good spirits heading to France. Elsewhere, there are a number of key players that should impress.

One player whose chances of appearing at the World Cup are up in the air is captain Johnny Sexton. The legendary fly-half has already announced that he will retire following the tournament but after re-aggravating a groin injury in the final Six Nations game his status is up in the air. In his place, lock James Ryan has been captaining the nation and is set to make his eighth appearance as skipper in their coming fixture against England at the time of writing.

They also have a quality front row in Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong with the latter proving to be one of Ireland’s best players in this current crop. However, something that many point to as a potential downfall in Ireland’s game is their psychological approach.

Hope?

It is worth noting that Ireland have never won the rugby World Cup despite consistently being one of the best teams in the world. In fact, they are currently ranked as the number one Rugby Union nation in the world, their standing made even stronger by their dominant six nations performance.

Could it be that there is simply something deeply embedded into these players that prevents them from winning the big one? There is no doubt they have had plenty of teams throughout the years who were more than capable of winning but for whatever reason it has never been done.

There is an argument that they perhaps focus on short term results too often. This has of course been a successful approach for them at times, however it looks as if it may hinder them when it comes to lifting the Webb Ellis Trophy. They may need to usher in new blood more often rather than sticking to the old guard, however under Farrell we have seen that happen a lot more often.

One thing that is certain is that both Irish fans and players will be expecting a lot more from the team that underperformed in 2019. With their fortunes seemingly taking a turn since then, it seems increasingly likely that we will see that happen.

The Irish may not be the tournament favourites, but it would be incredibly foolish to write them off. It has been 20 years since a team that wasn’t South Africa or New Zealand won the World Cup, but Ireland is certain to do everything they can to put an end to that run. They are the number one ranked team in the world for a reason and they may just have as good a chance as they ever have at finally getting their hands on the Webb Ellis Trophy in 2023.

Ciara Mageean 4th in World 1500m Final

Ciara Mageean delivered the performance of her career to break her own Irish record in a time of 3:56.61 to take 4th place in Tuesday evening’s World Athletics Championships 1500m Final in Budapest.

The City of Lisburn AC athlete, ranked ninth on her season’s best, ran a tactically superb race throughout to put herself right in contention for a medal at the bell in what was one of the best 1500m fields ever assembled for a championship final.

💥NATIONAL RECORD AND 4TH IN THE WORLD FOR CIARA MAGEEAN💥

An outstanding run from one of the stars of Irish sport🙌🤩🇮🇪 Ciara left it all out there and did us proud once again💚 A national record in a global final!!🤯

⏱️3:56.61 NR@Ask123ie #IrishAthletics pic.twitter.com/KvMvPjXfOD

— Athletics Ireland (@irishathletics) August 22, 2023

Ciara Mageean went with the leading athletes in the race defining move with 300m to go but unfortunately could not reel in the front three of hot favourite Faith Kipyegon from Kenya (3:54.87), Ethiopia’s Diribe Welteji (3:55.69), and Sifan Hassan from The Netherlands (3:56.00).

Speaking after the race, the Portaferry runner said:

“To be honest, to be disappointed with 4^th is probably a good thing. I came in with the aim of a medal because it’s the best I’ve ever felt coming into a championships. To come away with 4^th is bittersweet but I’ve had the season of my life.”

"To come away with fourth is so bittersweet. I'll probably have a wee bit of a cry.

"But many years ago I wouldn't have dreamt of fourth in the world.

"I just know that I have it, it's there. Another year to Olympics."

– @ciaramageean. 💚#TeamIreland #WorldAthleticsChamps pic.twitter.com/sO5fa1OLlD

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) August 22, 2023

The European silver medallist added:

“Many years ago I wouldn’t have dreamt of 4th at a global senior final and I’m standing her disappointed with 4th and a national record so I know I can do it. It’s another year to the Olympics, and I’m putting myself in with a fighting chance with the best 1500m athletes in the world”.

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝟭𝟱𝟬𝟬𝗺 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹! @ciaramageean runs a brilliant 3:56.61 to claim fourth in the world and a new National Record! 🇮🇪

Gold goes to the phenomenal Faith Kipyegon. 🥇#TeamIreland #WorldAthleticsChamps #Budapest2023 pic.twitter.com/fW2cDvcaOZ

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) August 22, 2023

“I ran the race perfectly and did the best I could so I’ll walk away with my head held high. The dream lives on and I’ve many races ahead of me next year and the year after”, said Mageean.

This evening’s excellent performance continues a remarkable period for the Irish record holder who achieved Commonwealth Games and European silver medals in the last 12 months.

Top Irish Footballers in the European Leagues

From the bustling streets of Dublin to the quiet countryside towns, Irish players have left a mark on the world of international football. From Robbie Keane to Damien Duff, the annals of the king of sports have recorded top Irish footballers, each a symbol of unwavering dedication and a source of national pride.

Now, in turn, a new generation of players continues to the reputation of Irish football. Here are the most valuable Irish players who are poised to carry the torch forward.

Caoimhín Kelleher (Liverpool FC)

A native of Cork., Kelleher graduated from Liverpool’s youth academy in 2019 and joined the first team in the same year. While he didn’t have much opportunity to shine – Becker is in the spotlight – he did make his presence felt in the 2022 EFL Cup final where he scored the decisive penalty against Chelsea.

According to Transfermarkt, Kelleher has a market value of EUR 12 million.

Josh Cullen

A West Ham graduate, Cullen stayed in East London for most of his career. Or at least he did on paper, because he spent most of his five seasons with the Hammers on loans. He left England for Belgium in 2020, playing two seasons with Anderlecht, and earning the club’s (and the fans’) respect in the process. In 2022, he returned to England, joining Burnley FC as a defensive midfielder.

Josh Cullen is currently worth EUR 13 million.

Gavin Bazunu

Bazunu’s career at the Shamrock Rovers was short – he left the club after half a dozen apps, including two in the Europa League. He joined Man City in 2019 but spent most of his time there on loan before signing a five-year contract with Southampton.

The 21-year-old goalkeeper has a “Premier League Save of the Month” and 16 national team apps under his belt, and a market value of EUR 15 million.

Nathan Collins

Collins started his career at Cherry Orchard, like his father and uncle before him, moving on to Stoke City, and spending three years as a youth, and two seasons as a senior there. His next stop was Burnley for a season, and the Wolves for one more. This year, he ended up at Brentford – the Bees paid £23m (circa EUR 26.7 million) to have him.

Evan Ferguson

He may be just 18, but he’s already the stuff of legends. Ferguson grew out of St Kevin’s Boys to join the Bohemians, signing his first professional contract with the club in 2019 – at the age of 14, becoming the club’s youngest player to join the senior team. By age 17, he already left – he currently plays with Brighton & Hove Albion as a striker, and he has been playing there ever since.

According to Transfermarkt, Ferguson has a market value of EUR 30 million. And he just signed a fresh contract with Brighton, making Falmer Stadium his home for the coming years.

In conclusion

In the realm of European football, Irish players shine bright. A new generation, like Kelleher, Cullen, Bazunu, Collins, and Ferguson, stands ready to carry the legacy. Their journey, a blend of dedication and talent, adds an exciting twist to the soccer bet we place on their future.

Evolution of Irish Football: A Journey of Passion and Pride

The Origin of Irish Football

Irish football’s journey began in the late 19th century. During those early years, it was more than just a game. It was an outlet for political and social sentiments, reflecting the emotions of the nation. As with many European footballing stories, Irish teams were often formed around local churches and community hubs. Interestingly, around the same time, the culture of betting on sports was beginning to gain traction. Even in today’s digital age, many are drawn to online offerings, with platforms like 5 pound deposit casinosbeing particularly popular, paralleling the evolution of both football and its associated industries.

The Splitting Path: North and South

The early 20th century saw a major split in Irish football. 1921 marked the division of Ireland into North and South, leading to the establishment of two separate football associations: The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) in the South and the Irish Football Association (IFA) in the North. Both associations developed their leagues and teams, adding another layer of rivalry to the beautiful game on the island.

Significant Achievements and Moments

The 20th century had its fair share of memorable moments for Irish football. A few highlights include:

● Republic of Ireland: Qualifying for their first World Cup in 1990, and then reaching the quarter-finals.

● Northern Ireland: Their World Cup journey in 1958, where they reached the quarter-finals.

● Memorable matches against some of football’s biggest giants, including England, Germany, and Spain.

Modern Times: The Rise of Talents

The 21st century has been significant for the rise of individual talents from Ireland. Players like Robbie Keane, Damien Duff, and Shay Given have played for top clubs in the English Premier League and beyond. Northern Ireland, too, has produced gems like Steven Davis and Jonny Evans, showcasing the continuous evolution and growth of the sport across the island.

Domestic Leagues and Their Challenges

While the talents of individual players have been recognized on the international stage, domestic leagues like the League of Ireland have faced their share of challenges. From financial difficulties to the migration of top talents abroad, the domestic scene has often been overshadowed. However, steps are being taken to revive and strengthen the home leagues, with increased investments and grassroots initiatives.

The Fans: The Heartbeat of Irish Football

Irish football fans, both from the North and the South, are renowned for their passion and loyalty. Whether it’s supporting the national teams in major tournaments or travelling across Europe with their club teams, their energy is unmistakable. A few noteworthy fan moments include:

● The incredible atmosphere in Euro 2016, where both Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland fans were awarded the Medal of the City of Paris for their exemplary sportsmanship.

● Local derbies, which bring cities and towns alive with fervor and excitement.

Conclusion: A Future Bright and Promising

The journey of Irish football is a testament to the resilience, passion, and love for the game that exists on the island. From its humble beginnings in the 19th century to the bright lights of major European tournaments, the sport has evolved remarkably. With initiatives aimed at strengthening domestic leagues and the continuous production of world-class talents, the future looks bright for Irish football. And as always, the fans will be at the heart of this journey, cheering, supporting, and celebrating every goal, every win, and every memorable moment.

Dominant Ireland beat England 29-10

Ireland 29 England 10 — Ireland beat England 29-10 on Saturday. Credit: @Irishrugby.

Ireland dominated England in their second and final Bank of Ireland Nations Series game at Aviva Stadium, Lansdowne Road, on Saturday evening.

In a game where the home side scored 5 tries to one for the visitors, they dominated throughout the field before finally showing that domination on the scoreboard.

Centurion Keith Earls was among the try scorers to the delight of the home fans, while England’s Billy Vunipola, who was initially yellow-carded for a high tackle on Andrew Porter, saw a review of the tackle upgrade his card to red.

First Half

Though Ireland had a strong starting team, the usual high level of accuracy was missing in the opening half as the home side conceded 6 penalties.

The visitors opened the scoring through George Ford when he kicked a Tadhg Beirne conceded penalty. Kicking from slightly left of the posts, the Sale Sharks’ man slotted over just before the clock hit 5 minutes.

Try for Bundee

An attacking move from Ireland gave winger James Lowe possession with the New Zealand-born player gaining metres. He was strongly supported by Peter O’Mahony who found a lot of space in the centre of the English defence. The Corkman eventually off-loaded to the onrushing Bundee Aki, with the centre having space to comfortably make the try-scoring line. A Ross Byrne conversion from in front of the posts, put Ireland into a 7-3 lead approaching 10 minutes on the clock.

It’s all too easy as Ireland break through the England line with ease and Bundee Aki has a clear run. pic.twitter.com/YQHOo4fEGa

— RTÉ Rugby (@RTErugby) August 19, 2023

Mack Hansen failing to roll away gave England an opportunity to close the gap on the scoreboard on 25 minutes, but George Ford surprisingly struck it to the right and wide of the far post.

In spite of some unforced errors from Andy Farrell’s side during the opening half, Ireland made some good decisions on the ball and ran some clever lines in the dying minutes of that opening period.

Hansen finds Ringrose

With the energetic Mack Hansen, the Player of the Match, in possession of the ball on the far side of the pitch, he saw centre Garry Ringrose on the opposite end. A long, well-directed accurate kick from the Connacht winger found Ringrose who had enough to cross for Ireland’s second try of the half.

Byrne attempted the conversion from 40m out, and though he had the distance, he failed with accuracy and send the ball left of the far post and wide.

Great vision from Mack Hansen and Garry Ringrose touches down to give Ireland a 12-3 half-time advantage. Live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. pic.twitter.com/jmfbMSBJMD

— RTÉ Rugby (@RTErugby) August 19, 2023

With the teams heading to the dressing rooms for the half-time team talk, Ireland lead 12-3.

Second Half

James Lowe scored his 10th international try 15 minutes into the second half. With England down for 14 men following a yellow card for Billy Vunipola for a dangerous high tackle on Andrew Porter, England were stretched by the home side, and Lowe found himself in splendid isolation out on the wing. A fast pass to the winger saw him run in for his side’s third try of the game.

Ireland quickly make the most of their numerical advantage as James Lowe is left with an acre of space to walk in and touch down. Live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. pic.twitter.com/HkVQUbKPsX

— RTÉ Rugby (@RTErugby) August 19, 2023

Ross Byrne’s conversion attempt came back off the left post, leaving the Irish side with a 17-3 advantage.

It was then announced that the review panel had upgraded Billy Vunipola’s yellow card to red, meaning the Saracens’ man’s day was over.

The positive use of width and space brought more success for Ireland when claiming their fourth try of the evening. The industrious Mack Hansen touched down for his 7th international try, giving the scoreboard a more respectable look, and showing more accurately the difference between the two sides. Ross Byrne’s difficult day at kicking for the posts continued as he missed another attempt, leaving Ireland 22-3 ahead.

100th cap for Keith Earls

The loudest cheer of the day seemed to come on 60 minutes when Limerick’s Keith Earls became the 9th Irish player to win 100 International caps.

Here comes the centurion. Keith Earls receives a thunderous ovation as he replaces James Lowe to make his 100th appearance for Ireland. pic.twitter.com/x0NrFhhJhO

— RTÉ Rugby (@RTErugby) August 19, 2023

The loudness of that roar was bettered in the 73rd minute, however, when Earls dived into the corner to score the 36th international try of his career. His Munster comrade Jack Crowley converted from close to the touchline, giving Ireland a 29-10 victory.

What a moment! What a finish!

Keith Earls’ day just gets better as he goes over in the corner to blow the roof off the Aviva Stadium. pic.twitter.com/owLTS6018i

— RTÉ Rugby (@RTErugby) August 19, 2023

Keith Rossiter new Wexford Senior Hurling Manager

Wexford GAA Announces Keith Rossiter as Prospective Wexford Senior Hurling Manager

Wexford GAA have unveiled Keith Rossiter as the potential Wexford Senior Hurling Manager, with a proposed three-year tenure. Keith’s impressive track record includes successful leadership of Wexford’s U20 Hurling Team for the past two seasons, culminating in consecutive appearances at the Leinster Finals. His extensive experience also encompasses his prior role as a selector within our senior hurling team from 2017 to 2021.

A Legacy of Excellence in Playing and Coaching

Keith Rossiter’s impact extends beyond the coaching realm. As a distinguished player, he proudly represented Wexford at the senior level for over a decade. Notably, his contributions played a pivotal role in securing Wexford’s Leinster title victory in 2004. Beyond his county achievements, Keith’s prowess shone through in his association with Oulart-The Ballagh, where he garnered an astounding ten Wexford Senior Hurling titles, two of which he achieved as captain. His exceptional achievements also encompassed a remarkable victory in the Leinster Senior Club Hurling Championship.

Ratification Set for County Committee Meeting

The nomination of Keith Rossiter as Wexford’s Senior Hurling Manager, along with the endorsement of his proficient support team, is slated for official ratification. This critical juncture will be addressed during the upcoming County Committee meeting, scheduled to convene on Tuesday, August 29, 2023. Stay tuned for the official announcement following this pivotal gathering.

How to Watch NFL 2024 with Maximum Excitement

The National Football League, a beloved professional American football league boasting 32 dynamic teams divided into the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC), holds the hearts of over 160 million fans worldwide. With the 2024 season right around the corner, it’s time to decide where and how you are going to watch the most popular football tournament.

The Beginning of National Football League

Before diving into the exhilarating NFL to be held in 2024, let’s take a quick recap of the NFL 2023. The NFL’s fascinating journey began in 1920 when 14 teams banded together to create a remarkable legacy. Since then, it has become the epitome of sports entertainment across the world. Moreover, the NFL has been an advocate for social change, breaking barriers and championing gender equality.

The Thrilling NFL 2023 Season

The previous season, NFL 2023, was a whirlwind of unpredictability and excitement, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. In the final Super Bowl, the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 38-35. The star of the moment was none other than the talented quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, who rightfully earned the title of Super Bowl MVP.

Watch NFL 2024 Live

Now, let’s explore how you can savor every electrifying moment of NFL 2024 without missing a beat, and here’s the best part—you can do it all with a burst of excitement!

1. Stream NFL 2024 on TV apps

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Tune in to streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu with Live TV, Direct TV stream, Fubo TV and Sling TV, offering you live NFL action at your fingertips. Even better, many of these services offer free trials, allowing you to immerse yourself in the excitement before committing to a subscription.

Take advantage of those enticing free trials offered by streaming platforms—it’s a win-win scenario! Moreover, these streaming apps are available on popular devices like Amazon Fire Stick, Fire TV, Roku Stick, Xbox and all android devices. Firestick and android users have the option to watch live NFL games from the comfort of their home.

In addition, these apps are accessible in most countries. Therefore, NFL lovers can watch their favourite matches on any of these devices regardless of their location.

2. The Official NFL Services

The league itself has realized that the digital age is upon us, and they’re ready to cater to the tech-savvy fans. With a few simple clicks, you can find official NFL streaming services that will beam the excitement straight to your device, giving you a front-row seat to every electrifying moment. Say goodbye to blurry streams and buffering delays; it’s time to experience football in crystal-clear high definition.

Download the NFL app to embark on a journey of live streaming NFL games available in your local market. The thrills don’t end there—replays of previously aired games are also at your disposal. So, if you missed a match of your favourite team, you have the option to watch the replay. Best of all, the NFL app comes at no cost, though you’ll need to sign in with a TV provider to access live games.

3. Join Online Fan Communities

Football isn’t just about watching the game; it’s about the camaraderie, the banter, and sharing the joy of victory (or the agony of defeat) with fellow fans. Online fan communities are like those secret locker room handshakes—they bring fans together, united by their love for the sport. Joining these communities can be a game-changer, giving you a place to discuss epic plays, share funny memes, and, of course, argue over whose team is the best. Remember, in the digital world, we’re all part of one big tailgating party

4. Look for Exclusive Game Day Offers

As the saying goes, “A penny saved is a touchdown earned!” (Okay, maybe I just made that up, but it’s a touchdown-worthy phrase, right?) Keep an eye out for exclusive game day offers from streaming platforms or even your favorite snack brands. You might score a sweet deal on a subscription or get a bucket of chicken wings at half the price. The NFL 2024 season brings not just thrilling games but exciting deals as well!

5. Witness the Action Live

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For the ultimate NFL experience, nothing beats being in the stadium’s heart, breathing in the electrifying atmosphere, and being one with the fans. While tickets might be pricey, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is well worth it for true NFL enthusiasts.

Some Additional Tips

As we gear up for NFL 2024, here are some savvy tips to elevate your experience:

Scout for discounts and coupons from various streaming services and cable companies—there might be hidden treasures to uncover.

For fans outside the United States, a VPN is your secret weapon to bypass regional blackouts, granting you unrestricted access to all the thrilling NFL moments.

How to Choose the Best Streaming Service for You

The best streaming service for you will depend on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a free option, the NFL App or NFL Game Pass are good choices. If you want a more reliable option, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, or DIRECTV Stream are all good choices. And if you want to watch all out-of-market NFL games live, NFL Sunday Ticket is the only option.

Summing Up

No matter which streaming service you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy all the excitement of the 2024 NFL season from the comfort of your own home. So sit back, relax, and get ready to witness the exhilarating spectacle that is NFL 2024! Enjoy the roaring action live on your TV screen.

Is the Titleist Pro V1 the right golf ball for me?

Choosing the best golf balls for your game is very important, as it’s the only piece of equipment you use on every single shot.

The Titleist Pro V1 has been the most-played golf ball on tour and the world’s best-selling ball since it launched back in 2000. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best ball for every golfer.

To help you decide whether it’s the best ball for you, let’s look at what the Pro V1 brings to the table and what you’ll need to get the best out of it.

Swing speed

The Pro V1, like all tour-level balls, has a relatively firmcompression, which means you’ll need a decent swing speed to get the most out of it. Golfers with below-average swing speeds will get more distance from golf balls with a lower compression.

Soft feel

The Pro V1 has a soft feel, which many golfers love, although some prefer a slightly firmer, clickier sound, as they find this gives them more feedback on short shots, particularly with the putter. If that is the case for you, the firmer-feeling Titleist Pro V1x will be a better option.

Flight & spun

Feel isn’t the only difference between the Pro V1 and Pro V1x. The Pro V1 provides a slightly lower flight and less spin than its sibling; whether you view that as a positive or negative will depend on your impact conditions, typical ball flight, and the type of golf course you normally play.

If you want even lower spin than the Pro V1, the Titleist AVX provides that, as well as the softest feel of the three tour-level Titleist models.

Price

The Pro V1 is a premium ball and comes at a premium price. At £50 per dozen, it’s one of the most expensive golf balls on the market. Budget-conscious golfers or those who tend to lose a few balls during a round may prefer to look at a cheaper option.

Durability

Titleist cut no corners when it comes to quality control, but the very nature of the Pro V1’s soft urethane cover means it won’t be quite as durable as some golf balls. It’s a ball designed for the world’s best golfers, who don’t have to worry about the cost or durability of the balls they use!

Design options

Titleist are pretty traditional when it comes to design. While brands like TaylorMade and Callaway are releasing all manner of creative ball designs with various alignment aids, the Pro V1 is only available in plain white or a high optic yellow.

Custom fitting

Custom fitting isn’t just for golf clubs. Titleist have a ballfitting service on their website, where you’ll answer several questions and be given a ball recommendation. Even better, Titleist run ball fitting events throughout the year at various locations, where an expert will run you through a series of tests in different parts of the game – including short game, driving, and putting – in order to determine which Titleist ball will suit you best. You may even be given a couple of balls to take away, which is an added bonus!

All-Ireland Rounders GAA Junior Finals Preview: Exciting Clashes and Rising Stars

As the GAA rounders season reaches its climax, anticipation mounts with semi-final and final stages now underway. A thrilling month lies ahead, showcasing the best of the sport as top teams vie for victory.

Junior Ladies Final: Carrickmacross Emmets vs. Castletown Liams Mellows

In a captivating showdown, Carrickmacross Emmets from Monaghan face off against Castletown Liams Mellows from Wexford for the Junior Ladies championship title. Both teams, in just their second year of the sport, have impressively risen to prominence.

Carrickmacross Emmets’ Journey

Carrickmacross Emmets dominated their group, reminiscent of their senior men’s team who competes in the upcoming senior semi-finals. Victories against Dunderry, Skyrne, The Dublin Mets, and a triumph over neighbors Drumhowan showcased their prowess. A remarkable comeback in the semi-finals against Emo from Laois demonstrated their determination.

Castletown Liams Mellows’ Rise

Castletown Liams Mellows’ journey included topping Group A, overcoming challenges from Emo, Myshall, and Glynn/Barntown. Although facing a setback against St. Kieran’s, their resilience was evident as they battled back to secure a semi-final spot against Dublin Mets.

The Final Showdown

With both teams well-matched, the final promises to be enthralling. The potential for extra time and innings heightens the suspense, leaving the outcome uncertain.

All-Connacht Showdown: Kilmeena vs. Galway City Rapparees

A showdown of Connacht contenders unfolds as Mayo’s Kilmeena takes on Galway City Rapparees. Despite their shared regional origins, their paths to the final have been markedly distinct.

Kilmeena’s Path to Glory

Kilmeena secured second place in their group, avoiding quarterfinal playoffs. Their impressive displays against Mayo Gaels and St. Senan’s showcased their determination, setting the stage for a compelling quarter-final victory against Inniskeen.

Galway City Rapparees’ Resilience

Galway City Rapparees who are in their first year entering a mixed team have players from all over the world navigated a challenging route, finishing third in their group due to score difference.

Overcoming Mayo Gaels and Kilmeena, they secured a playoff victory against Carrickmacross. A hard-fought quarterfinal against Fenagh and a revenge win against St. Senan’s in the semis highlight their perseverance.

A Rematch in the Final

Kilmeena seeks to overturn their earlier defeat by Galway City Rapparees, promising an intense and closely contested final.

Final Thoughts

As these gripping finals approach, fans are advised to secure their tickets in advance for this all-ticket event. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness these exciting matchups and rising stars in the world of GAA rounders. Here is link for tickets

Ireland Squad, Live TV & Schedule for World Athletics Championships in Budapest

World Athletics Budapest — Credit: worldathletics.org.

Athletics Ireland has named a squad athletes for the World Athletics Championships in Budapest from August 19th – 27th 2023.

Event is live on Virgin TV

The Irish squad is the largest ever selected for a World Athletics Championships and will compete alongside over 2,000 athletes from 200 countries at the new 35,000 capacity National Athletics Stadium in Budapest.

Leading the Irish challenge across the busy nine-day schedule will be European Championship medal winners Ciara Mageean (City of Lisburn AC), Mark English (Finn Valley AC), Sarah Lavin (Emerald AC) and Rhasidat Adeleke (Tallaght AC).

The Championships, which start on 19th August, will see Virgin Media present live coverage across all nine days.

Morning – Saturday August 19th

David Kenny – Men’s 20km Race Walk – Final – 07:50 (08:50)
Eric Favors – Men’s Shot Put – Qualification – 09:30 (10:30)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon 100m Hurdles – Heats – 09:35 (10:35)
Mixed 4x400m Relay – Round One – 10:05 (11:05)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon High Jump – 10:45 (11:45)
Ciara Mageean – Women’s 1500m – Round One – 12:15 (13:15)
Sarah Healy – Women’s 1500m – Round One – 12:15 (13:15)
Sophie O’Sullivan – Women’s 1500m – Round One – 12:15 (13:15)

Evening – Saturday August 19th

Andrew Coscoran – Men’s 1500m – Round One – 18:02 (19:02)
Luke McCann – Men’s 1500m – Round One – 18:02 (19:02)
Nick Griggs – Men’s 1500m – Round One – 18:02 (19:02)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Shot Put – 18:05 (19:05)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon 200m – Heats – 19:30 (20:30)
Men’s Shot Put – Final – 19:35 (20:35)
Mixed 4x400m Relay – Final – 20:47 (21:47)

Morning – Sunday August 20th

Rhasidat Adeleke – Women’s 400m – Round One – 08:35 (09:35)
Sharlene Mawdsley – Women’s 400m – Round One – 08:35 (09:35)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Long Jump – 08:50 (09:50)
Christopher O’Donnell – Men’s 400m – 09:25 (10:25)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Javelin – Group A – 11:00 (12:00)

OR

Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon Javelin – Group B – 12:05 (13:05)

Evening – Sunday August 20th

Women’s 1500m – Semi-Final – 16:05 (17:05)
Men’s 1500m – Semi-Final – 16:35 (17:35)
Kate O’Connor – Women’s Heptathlon 800m – 17:00 (18:00)

Evening – Monday August 21st

Women’s 400m – Semi-Final – 20:10 (21:10)

Evening – Tuesday August 22nd

Sarah Lavin – Women’s 100m Hurdles – Round One – 17:40 (18:40)
Mark English – Men’s 800m – Round One – 18:20 (19:20)
John Fitzsimons – Men’s 800m – Round One – 18:20 (19:20)
Men’s 400m – Semi-Final – 20:00 (21:00)
Women’s 1500m – Final – 20:30 (21:30)

Morning – Wednesday August 23rd

Louise Shanahan – Women’s 800m – Round One – 09:05 (10:05)

Evening – Wednesday August 23rd

Women’s 100m Hurdles – Semi-Final – 19:40 (20:40)
Men’s 1500m – Final – 20:15 (21:15)
Women’s 400m – Final – 20:35 (21:35) *

Morning – Thursday August 24th

Brendan Boyce – Men’s 35km Race Walk – Final – 06:00 (07:00)

Evening – Thursday August 24th

Brian Fay – Men’s 5000m – Round One – 18:00 (19:00)
Men’s 800m – Semi-Final – 19:50 (20:50)
Women’s 100m Hurdles – Final – 20:25 (21:25)
Men’s 400m – Final – 20:35 (21:35)

Evening – Friday August 25th

Women’s 800m – Semi-Final – 19:25 (20:25)

Evening – Saturday August 26th

Women’s 4x400m Relay – Round One – 18:55 (19:55)
Men’s 800m – Final – 19:30 (20:30)

Evening – Sunday August 27th

Men’s 5000m – Final – 19:10 (20:10)
Women’s 800m – Final – 19:45 (20:45)
Women’s 4x400m Relay – Final – 20:47 (21:47)

Team selections as of 10.08.2023

Athlete Name	Event(s)	Club	Coach
Rhasidat Adeleke	400m, W4x400m	Tallaght AC	Edrick Floreal
Sharlene Mawdsley	400m, Mx4x400m, W4x400m	Newport AC	Gary Ryan
Louise Shanahan	800m	Leevale AC	Phil O’Dell
Ciara Mageean	1500m	City of Lisburn AC	Helen Clitheroe
Sophie O’Sullivan	1500m	Ballymore Cobh AC	Mauricia Powell
Sarah Healy	1500m	UCD AC	Trevor Painter
Sarah Lavin	100mH	Emerald AC	Noelle Morrissey
Kate O’Connor	Heptathlon	Dundalk St. Gerald’s AC	Michael O’Connor
Sophie Becker	Mx 4x400m, W4x400m	Raheny Shamrocks AC	Jeremy Lyons & Gerard O’Donnell
Roisin Harrison	Mx 4x400m, W4x400m	Emerald AC	Eoghan McNamara
Niamh Murray	W4x400m	Bray Runners	Aine Murray & Joe Ryan
Kelly McGrory	W4x400m	Tir Chonaill AC	Drew & Hayley Harrison
Chris O’Donnell	400m, Mx4x400m	North Sligo AC	Benke Blomqvist
John Fitzsimons	800m	Kildare AC	Joe Ryan
Mark English	800m	UCD AC	Feidhlim Kelly
Andrew Coscoran	1500m	Star of the Sea AC	Feidhlim Kelly
Luke McCann	1500m	UCD AC	Thomas Dreißigacker & Clark McCann
Nick Griggs	1500m	Candour Track Club	Mark Kirk
Brian Fay	5000m	Raheny Shamrocks AC	Feidhlim Kelly
David Kenny	20km Walk	Farranfore Maine Valley AC	Rob Heffernan
Brendan Boyce	35km Walk	Finn Valley AC	Rob Heffernan
Eric Favors	Shot Put	Raheny Shamrocks AC	Dane Miller
Jack Raftery	Mx 4x400m	Donore Harriers AC	Jeremy Lyons & Gerard O’Donnell
Callum Baird	Mx 4x400m	Ballymena & Antrim AC	Ian Neely

* Selection subject to medical clearance.