Home Blog Page 104

Can Manchester City Win the EPL Seasons 2023/24 Again?

Fourth Time Lucky?

The Premier League has rolled around again for another season, and all the participating teams are set to have another go at clinching silverware. Manchester City, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Newcastle finished in the top four spots last season, so they are gearing up to enjoy the Champions League football this season. Newly promoted sides Burnley, Sheffield United, and Luton Town seek to make their reentrance into the top flight worthwhile.

As the new season 2023/24 season unfolds, all the participating teams must possess resilience and momentum. Arsenal’s slip-up last season, especially at the tail end of the season, can cause all efforts to be wasted. Had the Gunners gone all the way, it would have been the first time since the 2003-04 season, ending a 20-year wait for the Premier League trophy. They seemed to have been touched by the spirit of the Invincibles of ’03 fame. But just as the finish line came into view, they stuttered, lost momentum, and were quickly replaced by Man City at the top of the league table.

Pep Guardiola’s men appeared to be biding their time, waiting for them to falter, and just as they did, the city boys swooped in and held on till the end, giving them their third consecutive Premier League trophy.

Formidable Foes

All eyes will be on the Etihad Stadium this season to see if they can replicate similar heroics. As it turns out, that will be no mean feat, as in 134 years, no team has ever been fourth-time lucky. So Manchester City are not just going up against sides who are eager to take their crown; they’re going against history itself.

Many football lovers are already going to https://tips.gg/football/matches to watch EPL matches with their favourite teams. The hope is high for Pep Guardiola, as he is known for making history and setting new records and might do so again. Let’s see how other football teams in strong contention for the Premier League title have fortified themselves.

Arsenal

First on the list are the almost-champions that came closest to clinching the trophy. Though bested by City last time, they have already taken a pound of flesh from the champions, defeating them 4-1 on penalties to cart away the Community Shield. They have sent out a message loud and clear to the citizens that they are not to be trifled with, even though some may claim that the Shield is a mere glorified pre-season game.

Mikel Arteta has also secured the services of West Ham’s defensive midfielder Declan Rice for €116.60m. If the performance of the 24-year-old in his first matches for the Gunners is anything to go by, then he may just have made a good addition to the squad.

The acquisition of Kai Harvertz from Chelsea for €75m also emboldens Arsenal’s attack and adds a new dimension to their midfield.

Chelsea

The Blues may have performed underwhelmingly last season, finishing in 12th position with just 44 points. Yet, they look to have made some interesting transfers that suggest they are prepared to wrestle the trophy from the hands of Manchester City.

The addition of Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo for €140 m might revamp the midfield and give it more depth. The arrival of Christopher Nkunku for €53m from RB Leipzig. Also, the €35m former Villarreal striker, Nicolas Jackson, might be a key addition for the Blues. If all goes well, the recent additions might give Chelsea the impetus to challenge City’s reign.

Manchester United

Erik Ten Haag’s tactics might finally be settling into the hearts of the Red Devils. Under the tutelage of the Dutch tactician, they managed to win a Champions League spot for the 2023/2024 campaign and lift the Carabao Cup. A number of changes have been made to enable these possibilities, though, some of which are the cutting loose of older legs like Eric Bailly, Juan Mata, Edinson Cavani, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

This has paved the way for fresh talent like Andre Onana, Mason Mount, and Rasmus Hojlund. Hopefully, these players would fit seamlessly with the others to form a coherent team that can give the champions a run for their money.

Liverpool

The Reds are another team lying in wait to steal Manchester City’s thunder. The club has let go of some old, fringe players like Fabinho, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Firmino, and Jordan Henderson. This gives them the room to bring in fresh talent like Attacking midfielder Dominic Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig for a few of €70m, Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton for €42m and defensive midfielder Wataru Endo from VFB Stuttgart for €20m.

We still have the season ahead of us to gauge the impact these fresh additions will have on the team, but rest assured boss Jurgen Klopp has an ace or two up his sleeves.

Conclusion

Football matches today tend to be greatly impacted, from the activities on the pitch to the behaviors of players outside it. So, looking at the stats, football live scores, and other metrics might not reveal who would be favorites to clinch the trophy in a season. But as we’ve seen Manchester City do in other years, surmounting huge odds through the tactical genius of coach Pep Guardiola, we can be fairly confident to say that he’d give his all to win this cup. Undoubtedly, all the fans and viewers are in to enjoy another great footballing season.

 

The Rise of Virtual Sports Viewing Parties: How to Host and Enjoy

In this era, where digital innovations continue to shape our lives, the rise of virtual sports viewing parties is inevitable. These parties have become quite the trend, allowing sports fans from any part of the globe to watch their favorite teams together, without the need for actual physical meet-ups. 

Today, we explore how you can host your own virtual sports viewing party and enjoy it with your loved ones. 

Understanding Virtual Sports Viewing Parties

Virtual sports viewing parties are exactly what they sound like; they are events held online where fans can gather virtually to watch a sports event in real time. 

Essentially, these parties bring the energy, camaraderie, and thrill of watching a sports event at a stadium or a local pub right into your digital screens. 

So, whether you are a football fanatic, a basketball buff, or a soccer enthusiast, hosting or being a part of a virtual party might be a good idea for you. 

Hosting a Virtual Sports Viewing Party

While there are plenty of sites to watch sports online, hosting a virtual sports viewing party can seem daunting, but once you understand the basics, it’s relatively straightforward. 

Let’s break down the process into simple steps:


Step 1: Select the Platform
First, you need to decide on the platform for hosting the party. That could be any video conferencing software that supports screen sharing. Popular options include Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Consider your guest’s familiarity and comfort with the platform when choosing.

Some other platforms, like Twitch and Scener, are specifically designed for co-watching sports and movies online. 


Step 2: Set the Date & Time
Make sure to check the schedule of the sports event you plan to view together. Confirm the date and time, and remember to consider different time zones if your guests are from various parts of the world.


Step 3: Send Invitations to Participants
Now you will want to send out your invitations. These can be as simple as an email or message with the link, date, and time of the gathering, or you could get more creative with a digital flyer. Make sure to include instructions for accessing the platform and the event start time.


Step 4: Test Your Equipment
Before the party, ensure your equipment is ready – a solid internet connection, a good quality screen for sharing the game, and a powerful audio system for clear and loud game commentaries. 

Do a test run before the actual event to ensure all the technical bits are in place.

Enjoying the Experience

While the logistics of organizing a virtual sports viewing party can be straightforward, the true success lies in how much enjoyment the participants can draw from it. However everything has its Pros and cons and Watch Party like this also has some pros and cons as well. But, right now we are not going to discuss that, so let’s just stick to the topic. Here are some tips to enjoy your meetups:


Engage participants: As the host, keep the participants engaged. Set aside time for introductions and let fans talk about their favorite aspects of the team or game they’re watching. Stir discussions during halftime or post-game.


Encourage team spirit: Encourage fans to show their team spirit. They could wear their team’s colors or jerseys. Maybe have a virtual background featuring their favorite team’s logos. That serves to enhance the overall feel and excitement of the event.


Know when to mute: Be conscious of not over-talking the game. The primary reason everyone is there is to watch and hear the game, remember to keep yourself on mute during key parts of the game to let everyone savor the match.


Food and Drink: While you can’t share snacks and drinks, encourage your guests to prepare their favorite game-day foods and beverages. You could discuss the game over a beer or share your homemade guacamole recipe.


Plan for technical issues: Be ready to assist guests who may struggle with technical setups or experience streaming issues. Give clear instructions upfront and be available for support during the event.

Conclusion

In conclusion, virtual sports viewing parties are no longer the future – they are the present. They offer a great way to still feel connected and enjoy sports events together while staying safe indoors. 

With the right platform, good preparation, and strategies to keep everyone engaged, your virtual party can be just as good as cheering from the stands!


If you are a sports fan missing camaraderie with your fellow fans, it might be time to host a virtual sports viewing party. Trust us; it’s not as hard as it seems. 

Just follow the simple steps and tips provided here, and you’ll be on your way to hosting a fantastic event that your friends will enjoy.


The rise of virtual sports viewing parties is a testament to how we’ve adapted our social experiences and hobbies to the digital environment. Yes, times are changing, but our love for sports and cheering on our teams – never will. 

Let us know your views on the virtual watch parties. Does it enhance your sports-watching experience, or is it a distraction, do let us know in the comments section below. 

 

MLS betting tips: Who has the most chance to win the upcoming season

The MLS may not have as big a following as the Premier Division or the Premier League, but it still draws in a lot of fans from Ireland.  

 

After a hiatus of a month or so, the 2023 MLS season is about to kick back into gear. The league has been on a break as teams have competed in the Leagues Cup, with Inter Miami impressing as Lionel Messi continues to dominate and have no trouble scoring.

 

However, while things have been exceptional on the pitch in this cup competition for the club, they have been very poor in the league. Even with the Argentine wizard in their team, they are unlikely to pull up any trees and win the MLS Cup by qualifying for the postseason. Although never say never with the FIFA World Cup winner – and Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba – in the side; a mantra some bookmakers appear to be following with the latest odds available.

 

Fans who have been eagerly awaiting the return of the 2023 MLS season as a potential wagering opportunity can get an early look at the betting odds on the football and see if there is any value to be had in placing your bets early.

 

Let’s take a look at which teams have the best chances of winning this season.

FC Cincinnati

According to the latest odds that are available, FC Cinncinatiappear to be the team to be the favorites to win the 2023 MLS. The team sits handsomely at the top of the Eastern Conference, although they are the best team in the league according to the statistics that matter.

 

Managed by Pat Noonan, the Orange and Blue have managed to accumulate a total of 51 points. This is eight more than the New England Revolution (second in the East), and ten more points than new boys St. Louis City SC (top of the West in their first season in the MLS). FC Cincinnati has managed 15 wins on the season, with St. Louis having 13, while being one of the best at keeping the goals out. They have conceded just 25 in 23 games, with Nashville SC (22) and the Seattle Sounders (23) the only teams to have conceded fewer at this stage of the campaign.

 

Tough games are still left to be played, but with the team in good shape and having been able to exert dominance after losing just two games all season thus far, it is hardly a surprise that they are the favorites.

Los Angeles FC

LAFC are thought to be the biggest contenders to challenge FC Cincinnati for the 2023 MLS title, with the club also in good shape. They are second in the Western Conference at the moment, having managed to amass 37 points from their 23 fixtures played. They are four points behind St. Louis City, but with the top eight from each conference going through to the postseason, they just need to keep going as they are before going into overdrive.

 

They are favored by many as they have experience of going all the way. The club, managed by Steve Cherundolo, where champions last season after finishing top of the West and then going on to defeat everyone in their path to win the MLS Cup.

 

If there is any cause of concern if wagering on the Black and Gold, it is the fact that they can be rather up and down. They may have won more than they have lost or drawn (ten victories), but they have struggled at times. They have drawn seven and lost six times in the current campaign. They have scored 34 times which, while is good in the West, pales in comparison to those in the East, and have conceded just 25 (one of the best in the MLS). This may provide some concern for those wondering whether to wager on them.

Who else could challenge?

Thankfully, the MLS is not a two-team race each year, with it possible to see several franchises each have the opportunity to win. The format of the league allows this to happen, as teams will only need to finish inside the top eight of their respective conference before going through the postseason, which features a knockout round. This makes it free for any team of the 16 to qualify to win.

 

With this in mind, the Philadelphia Union and Inter Miami are among those listed. It is hard to look beyond FC Cincinnati at the moment, but with so much football still to be played, and with Messi doing his magic, it will be very interesting to see how the MLS playoffs look, as this could be rather telling about who may go on to win the 2023 MLS season.

The Soaring Popularity of Sports Betting in Japan: A Deep Dive

In recent times, the landscape of gambling in Japan has undergone a significant transformation, with one particular aspect standing out: the surging popularity of sports betting. This article delves into the factors driving the rise of sports betting in the country and its impact on the gambling industry.

A Cultural Shift

Embracing Sports Betting Culture

Traditionally, Japan’s gambling scene was dominated by pachinko parlors and lottery games. In addition, online casinos in Japan have gained particular popularity in recent years. Read the explanation for this topic. However, a cultural shift is underway, driven by the increasing acceptance of sports betting as a legitimate form of entertainment. As attitudes evolve, more individuals are embracing the thrill of predicting outcomes and placing bets on their favorite sports events.

Influence of International Sporting Events

Global sporting events like the Olympics and World Cup have played a pivotal role in fostering interest in sports betting in Japan. As the nation units to support its athletes, the excitement spills over into sports betting, where enthusiasts seek to capitalize on their predictions while supporting their teams.

Technological advancements

The Digital Revolution

Technological advancements have redefined the landscape of sports betting. Online platforms and mobile applications have made it convenient for people to engage in betting from the comfort of their homes or on the go. The user-friendly interfaces and real-time updates enhance the betting experience, contributing to the industry’s growth.

In-Play Betting and Live Streaming

One of the game-changing aspects of modern sports betting is the availability of in-play betting and live streaming. Enthusiasts can place bets during the course of a match, leveraging their insights and instincts. Live streaming adds an interactive element, allowing bettors to follow the action and make informed decisions in real-time.

Regulatory Changes

Legalization and regulation

The growing interest in sports betting prompted regulatory changes in Japan. In 2018, the government legalized sports betting on certain events, creating a more structured and regulated environment. This move not only ensures consumer protection but also opens up avenues for revenue generation and tourism enhancement.

Responsible Gambling Measures

While embracing sports betting, Japan also emphasizes responsible gambling practices. Regulatory authorities and operators collaborate to implement measures that prevent addiction and promote responsible behavior among bettors. These measures include setting betting limits, providing access to resources, and conducting awareness campaigns.

Economic Impacts

Boosting Economic Growth

The surge in sports betting activity contributes to economic growth in multiple ways. From the revenue generated by operators and taxes paid to the government to the creation of job opportunities in various sectors, sports betting serves as a catalyst for economic stimulation.

Tourism and Entertainment

Sports betting has the potential to attract international tourists who seek to engage in the excitement of sports events while placing bets. Integrated resorts and entertainment hubs that offer sports betting facilities can further enhance Japan’s tourism offerings.

Community and Social Engagement

Fostering Community Bonds

Sports betting transcends the realm of individual betting; it fosters community bonds and camaraderie among fans. Betting pools, friendly wagers, and discussions about odds and predictions bring people together, enhancing the overall sports-watching experience.

Knowledge and Strategy Building

Engaging in sports betting requires a level of knowledge and strategy. Enthusiasts often delve into researching teams, players, statistics, and trends, which not only enriches their understanding of sports but also adds an intellectual aspect to the entertainment.

Future Outlook

Continued Growth Trajectory

The popularity of sports betting in Japan is on a continued growth trajectory. As more people engage with online platforms and embrace the convenience of betting, the industry is expected to expand further.

Evolving Regulatory Frameworks

Japan’s regulatory frameworks for sports betting will likely evolve to accommodate the industry’s growth while ensuring responsible gambling practices. Striking a balance between consumer protection and market growth will remain a priority.

FAQs

Is sports betting legal in Japan?

Yes, sports betting on certain events was legalized in Japan in 2018, creating a regulated framework for enthusiasts to participate.

What is in-play betting?

In-play betting allows bettors to place wagers during the course of a sports event, leveraging real-time developments to inform their bets.

How does sports betting contribute to tourism?

Integrated resorts and entertainment hubs offering sports betting can attract international tourists seeking to engage in sports-related activities.

Are responsible gambling measures in place for sports betting?

Yes, regulatory authorities and operators collaborate to implement responsible gambling measures, including betting limits and awareness campaigns.

What is the future outlook for sports betting in Japan?

Sports betting is expected to continue growing in popularity, with evolving regulatory frameworks and technological enhancements shaping its trajectory.

Conclusion

The surge in the popularity of sports betting in Japan is indicative of a changing cultural landscape and the embrace of modern entertainment options. As technological advancements, regulatory changes, and responsible gambling measures come together, sports betting is poised to become a significant component of Japan’s gambling industry, contributing to economic growth, community engagement, and a dynamic sports-watching experience.

Islands of Opportunity: A Deep Dive into UK and Irish Gambling

Teed Up and Raymond Barron win Connacht Hotel Handicap at Galway.

In the islands that make up the United Kingdom and Ireland, gambling has long been a part of the cultural fabric.

From horse racing to football betting, the options are plentiful. However, the landscape has evolved dramatically with the rise of online casinos and sports betting platforms. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a novice looking to get in on the action, understanding the current scene can give you a significant edge. In this in-depth look, we’ll explore the booming world of UK and Irish gambling, including emerging trends and must-visit platforms, with a special mention of TopCasinoSearch.com as your go-to source for reliable online casino reviews and guides.

 

The Traditional Realm: Betting Shops and Casinos

Both the UK and Ireland have a long-standing history of betting shops and traditional casinos. Renowned for its horse racing, the UK alone hosts some of the world’s most prestigious events like the Grand National and the Royal Ascot. Ireland isn’t far behind, with events like the Irish Grand National attracting a large pool of bets.

 

Digital Transformation: Online Betting

While traditional avenues remain popular, online gambling has significantly changed the game. Online casinos and sportsbooks offer the convenience of betting from the comfort of your home, or even on the go. With just a smartphone or computer, gamblers can now access a myriad of betting options, from classic table games to intricate slot machines and virtual sports.

 

Regulatory Framework

Both the UK and Ireland have robust regulatory frameworks to ensure that gambling remains fair, safe, and responsible. The UK operates under the Gambling Commission, which enforces stringent rules on licensing, advertising, and customer interaction. In Ireland, the regulatory landscape is under transformation, aiming for stricter oversight and consumer protection.

 

Emerging Trends: What’s on the Rise?

  1. Live Casinos: These provide an immersive experience that replicates the atmosphere of a real-life casino.
  2. E-sports Betting: As competitive video gaming gains traction, so does the betting market surrounding it.
  3. Cryptocurrency Betting: Many platforms are now accepting Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as a form of payment.

 

Finding the Right Platform: The Role of TopCasinoSearch.com

Navigating the vast sea of online casinos can be overwhelming, but that’s where TopCasinoSearch.com comes into play. This platform is a trusted source for impartial reviews and guides, helping you find the perfect casino or sportsbook tailored to your needs. It cuts through the noise, providing valuable insights into bonuses, game variety, customer service, and payment options. With resources like TopCasinoSearch.com, making educated bets becomes a much simpler task.

 

The Surrounding Islands

It’s worth noting that the UK and Ireland aren’t the only players in the game. The Isle of Man, for example, has become a hub for online gambling companies, thanks in part to its favorable tax laws and advanced IT infrastructure.

 

Conclusion

From the high streets filled with betting shops to the digital landscape offering endless possibilities, the UK and Ireland are paradises for gamblers. As the industry continues to evolve, platforms like TopCasinoSearch.com prove invaluable for both newcomers and seasoned bettors looking for reliable reviews and guides. It’s an exciting time to be a part of this ever-changing world, filled with opportunities for those willing to take a chance.

 

Ireland Rugby World Cup Squad

Andy Farrell named Ireland's Rugby World Cup squad on Sunday. Credit: IRFU.

Head Coach Andy Farrell announced his 33-player Ireland squad on Sunday afternoon for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Jonathan Sexton is named to captain the team in France.

The Ireland squad will depart Dublin for their base camp in Tours on Thursday next, as preparations step up a gear for the Rugby World Cup Pool B opener against Romania in Bordeaux on Saturday, 9 September (Kick-off 2.30pm Irish time).

Sexton is one of three Ireland players set to appear at their fourth Rugby World Cup, with the captain having featured at the 2011, 2015 and 2019 editions alongside Conor Murray and recent Test centurion Keith Earls.

Experienced Players

There is a wealth of Rugby World Cup experience throughout the 33-player travelling squad, as Tadhg Furlong, Iain Henderson, Robbie Henshaw and Peter O’Mahony prepare for their third Rugby World Cup. Bundee Aki, Tadhg Beirne, Jack Conan, Dave Kilcoyne, Andrew Porter, James Ryan, Garry Ringrose and Josh van der Flier were all involved in Japan four years ago.

18 players making Rugby World Cup debut

The remaining 18 players in Farrell’s squad will be making their Rugby World Cup debuts in France. Forwards Ryan Baird, Finlay Bealham, Jeremy Loughman, Caelan Doris, Rob Herring, Ronan Kelleher, Joe McCarthy, Tom O’Toole and Dan Sheehan and backs Ross Byrne, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley, Jamison Gibson-Park, Mack Hansen, Hugo Keenan, Stuart McCloskey, James Lowe and Jimmy O’Brien all earn selection following Ireland’s recent Bank of Ireland Nations Series wins over Italy, England and Samoa.

Ireland’s Rugby World Cup Matches

Ireland open their Pool B campaign against Romania at Stade de Bordeaux, before playing on Tonga in their second outing in Nantes on Saturday, 16 September (Kick-off 8pm Irish time).

Farrell’s side then go to Stade de France in Paris for games against defending champions South Africa on Saturday, 23 September (Kick-off 8pm Irish time) and Scotland on Saturday, 7 October (Kick-off 8pm Irish time).

Credit: Irish Rugby TV/IRFU.

“Hugely Exciting” says Farrell

Commenting on Ireland’s squad announcement, Head Coach Andy Farrell said: “It has been a difficult selection process over the last number of weeks because a squad of 43 players have worked extremely hard throughout an eight-week pre-season period, with the group pushing each other on the pitch and becoming very close off it.

“As coaches, we are pleased with our 33-player selection and believe we have chosen the right group to represent Ireland in France. It is a hugely exciting time for the group as we prepare to depart for Tours and finalise our preparations for our Rugby World Cup opener against Romania.

“We look forward to the challenges ahead, knowing there is a huge level of support for the team from across the four Provinces, from all those in green around the world and from the thousands who will be in France backing us throughout the tournament.”

Honour for Sexton to captain Ireland

Ireland captain Jonathan Sexton added: “It is a great honour to lead this group of players to the Rugby World Cup. We have been open and honest about our ambitions for the weeks ahead and with a strong body of work behind us in pre-season, we are looking forward to travelling to France this week to fine-tune our preparations.

“We are under no illusions of the size of the task ahead, starting with Romania in our Pool opener. We will take each challenge as it comes, leaning on the experiences and lessons we have learnt as a group over the last four years, and with our supporters travelling in numbers, we will be working hard to make this a tournament to remember.”

Credit: Irish Rugby TV/IRFU.

Ireland’s Rugby World Cup campaign is live on RTÉ and Virgin Media.

Ireland Squad – Rugby World Cup 2023
Forwards (18):

Ryan Baird (Leinster/Dublin University)(13)
Finlay Bealham (Connacht/Buccaneers)(32)
Tadhg Beirne (Munster/Lansdowne)(41)
Jack Conan (Leinster/Old Belvedere)(39)
Caelan Doris (Leinster/St Mary’s College)(31)
Tadhg Furlong (Leinster/Clontarf)(67)
Iain Henderson (Ulster/Academy)(74)
Rob Herring (Ulster/Ballynahinch)(37)
Ronan Kelleher (Leinster/Lansdowne)(21)
David Kilcoyne (Munster/UL Bohemians)(52)
Jeremy Loughman (Munster/Garryowen)(3)
Joe McCarthy (Leinster/Dublin University)(3)
Peter O’Mahony (Munster/Cork Constitution)(96)
Tom O’Toole (Ulster/Ballynahinch)(11)
Andrew Porter (Leinster/UCD)(54)
James Ryan (Leinster/UCD)(55)
Dan Sheehan (Leinster/Lansdowne)(18)
Josh van der Flier (Leinster/UCD)(52)

Backs (15):

Bundee Aki (Connacht/Galwegians)(47)
Ross Byrne (Leinster/UCD)(21)
Craig Casey (Munster/Shannon)(12)
Jack Crowley (Munster/Cork Constitution)(6)
Keith Earls (Munster/Young Munster)(100)
Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster)(26)
Mack Hansen (Connacht/Corinthians)(16)
Robbie Henshaw (Leinster/Buccaneers)(64)
Hugo Keenan (Leinster/UCD)(31)
James Lowe (Leinster)(21)
Stuart McCloskey (Ulster/Bangor)(13)
Conor Murray (Munster/Garryowen)(106)
Jimmy O’Brien (Leinster/Naas)(6)
Garry Ringrose (Leinster/UCD)(51)
Jonathan Sexton (Leinster/St Mary’s College)(captain)(113)

Ireland Fixtures, Rugby World Cup 2023:

Pool B:
Ireland v Romania, Saturday 9 September, Stade de Bordeaux (2.30pm Irish time).
Ireland v Tonga, Saturday 16 September, Stade de la Beaujoire (8pm Irish time).
Ireland v South Africa, Saturday 23 September, Stade de France (8pm Irish time).
Ireland v Scotland, Saturday 7 October, Stade de France (8pm Irish time).

Notre Dame 42 Navy 3 in Aer Lingus Classic

Credit: @cfbIreland.

Notre Dame and Navy were back in Dublin on Saturday evening, competing in the Aer Lingus Classic 2023, with the former running out easy winners on a score line of 42-3.

The 97th meeting of the Fighting Irish and the Midshipmen of the US Naval Academy was the third edition of the Aer Lingus Classic, which was played in 2016 (Georgia Tech v Boston College) and 2022 (Northwestern v Nebraska).

The game, broadcast live on NBC throughout the USA, attracted a full-house at the Lansdowne Road venue, where the game kicked off at 7.30pm Irish time.

The 2023 Aer Lingus College Football Classic marked the third meeting between the Notre Dame and Navy in Ireland, but the first time that the Fighting Irish were the designated home team. The teams met in 1996 at Croke Park where Notre Dame won 54-27 and at Aviva Stadium in 2012 where they achieved a 50-10 victory.

In a dominant opening first two quarters, Notre Dame scored four touchdowns, each of them converted. The side had 17 first downs and passed for 200 yards. They added another two touchdowns during the third and fourth quarters to complete their comfortable victory.

Notre Dame took the lead through a rushing touchdown scored by Audric Estimé, the 13th play of the drive, which covered 81 yards and took 6 minutes 28 seconds of the opening quarter. Estimé just missed out on a 1,000-yard season in 2022 (he finished with 920 yards), with his specialty is wearing down the defence throughout the game.

The kick which followed from Spencer Shrader was successful giving the designated ‘home’ side a 7-0 lead. Shrader, a former professional soccer player, decided to play his final year at Notre Dame, claiming the starting kicker duties, has rushed twice in his career (once for a 22-yard touchdown), caught a pass for seven yards, made two tackles on kick offs, punted once for 36 yards and has converted 28 career field goals.

A 19-yard rushing touchdown from Jadarian Price, followed by another successful kick from Shrader, saw Notre Dame double their advantage to 14-0 with over a minute remaining in the opening quarter.

Jaden Greathouse worked well to gather the ball from quarterback Sam Hartman at the end of a Notre Dame four-play drive. The 6-pointer extended the South Bend, Indiana college’s advantage over their great rivals. With Shrader maintaining his accuracy at the posts, Notre Dame were 21-0 ahead, with 10 minutes still remaining in the first half.

Placekicker Evan Warren failed to get his side on the scoreboard at the end of Navy’s next possession. His effort failed to dissect the posts. This miss was soon punished as Notre Dame’s wide receiver Jayden Thomas got in on the scoring act when claiming his side’s fourth touchdown on the cusp of half-time.

Thomas, the leading returning receiver for the Irish offence, catching 25 passes for 361 yards and three touchdowns in 2022, received a 14-yard pass from quarterback Hartman in the ninth move of the drive which saw his side move 80 yards down the field. Shrader succeeded with his fourth kick at the posts and moved his team into a comfortable 28-0 at half-time.

Jaden Greathouse scored his second touchdown of the game early in the third quarter. Receiving an accurate 20-yard pass from quarterback Hartman, wide receiver Greathouse brought his personal points tally for the night to 10 points, before Shrader again kicked the extras for a 35-0 lead.

Shrader’s impeccable record at kicking for the posts ending with 4 minutes remaining in the third quarter. A 42-yard field goal attempt went right and wide of the uprights, as Shrader’s 100% success record on the night ended.

A 25-yard reception for Deion Colzie, who posted his best game of the season against Navy last year when catching two passes for 50 yards, saw the ‘home’ team extend their lead early in the final quarter. Seven plays in the drive saw Notre Dame move 60 yards in 3:43 minutes. With Shrader adding the extra score, it was a 42-0 advantage for Irish.

An Evan Warren field goal attempt from 31 yards out finally put Navy on the score board, but it was all too little, to late. The score came at the end of a 15-play 62-yard drive which lasted 8 minutes 21 seconds.

This one-sided game saw Notre Dame run out easy 42-3 victors over Navy.

The next instalment of US college football in Dublin, the 2024 Aer Lingus College Football Classic, will see Florida State University and Georgia Tech visit the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, 24 August 2024.

Major winners Adam Scott & Danny Willett set for Irish Open

Credit: Getty Images. Photo provided by DP World Tour.

With the Horizon Irish Open at the K Club from September 6-10 fast approaching, it has been confirmed that Adam Scott and Danny Willett will both participate in the tournament.

The two major champions will tee it up alongside fellow Major champions Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry and Pádraig Harrington at the Horizon Irish Open.

Scott, who won the Masters Tournament in 2013, three years before Willett claimed the coveted Green Jacket in 2016, will also be making his 250th DP World Tour appearance that week.

“I’m looking forward to returning to Ireland to play in the Horizon Irish Open,” said Scott. “We’re coming up to a very exciting time in the DP World Tour season and I’m excited to play in front of the Irish crowds again after a few years.”

Adrian Meronk, the defending champion, will tee it up at The K Club alongside two-time Ryder Cup player Tyrrell Hatton and PGA TOUR winners Séamus Power and Tom Hoge. Hoge ranked 44th on the Official World Golf Ranking, will be making his first appearance in a regular DP World Tour event next month.

Poland’s Meronk will defend his title in the company of a number of Ryder Cup hopefuls, including the Højgaard twins, Nicolai and Rasmus, and Yannik Paul, with Luke Donald, also set to tee it up at The K Club, making his six Captain’s Picks on the Monday of event week.

Meronk made history at last year’s Horizon Irish Open as he became the first player from Poland to win on the DP World Tour. He has since won his second and third DP World Tour titles, with all three of his victories coming at national opens – the Horizon Irish Open, ISPS HANDA Australian Open and DS Automobiles Italian Open.

Last year, he added his name to a roll of honour that includes the likes of Seve Ballesteros, McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Nick Faldo, Colin Montgomerie, Harrington and José María Olazábal.

The Horizon Irish Open returns to The K Club this year for the first time since 2016, when McIlroy won his first professional title on Irish soil. The prestigious venue, which hosted the Ryder Cup in 2006, will also host the Irish Open in 2025 and 2027, when the tournament will celebrate its 100th anniversary the same year as Ireland hosts The Ryder Cup at Adare Manor.

There will be live music at the conclusion of play on Saturday and Sunday, with chart-toppers Scouting for Girls taking to the main stage on Saturday September 9 and The Stunning, from Galway, bringing festivities to a close after the final putt has dropped on Sunday September 10.

All tickets have sold out for Sunday September 10, with General Admission tickets selling fast for Saturday’s third round.

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 speaking to Virgin Media Sport after her 4th place finish in tonight's World Championships 1500m Final. Credit: @VMSportIE.

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.

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 4th 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 4th is bittersweet but I’ve had the season of my life.”

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”.

“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.

1...103104105...584Page 104 of 584

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

SportsNewsIreland is an Irish website launched in 2009 to offer sports fans in Ireland an alternative and independent source to keep them up to date with all the news from around the country. Every week we bring you live score updates from all levels of GAA, rugby, soccer, racing and athletics. Contact

Contact us: Email: info@sportsnewsireland.com

FOLLOW US

Design by SportsMediaIreland.ie