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Armagh v Westmeath : Preview, Live Scores & Starting Teams

Armagh and Westmeath Set for Championship Clash

Armagh and Westmeath are gearing up to face each other in an exciting championship encounter, marking only the third time the two teams have met in the championship. Previous clashes occurred in successive years, with Armagh emerging victorious on both occasions during the All-Ireland qualifiers in 2017 and 2018. As anticipation builds for this upcoming showdown, both teams have displayed their capabilities throughout the Championship 2023.

Click here for live scores on Armagh v Westmeath 

Armagh’s Journey to the Clash

Armagh’s path to the match has been eventful, starting with a convincing victory over Antrim in the Ulster preliminary round, where they secured a scoreline of 0-20 to 1-8. Building on their success, they triumphed over Cavan in the Ulster quarter-final, with a final score of 1-14 to 0-12. In the Ulster semi-final, Armagh’s prowess shone through as they dominated Down with a commanding scoreline of 4-10 to 0-12. However, they experienced a setback in the Ulster final, where they were defeated by Derry in a hard-fought battle that ended in a draw, ultimately resulting in a 3-1 penalty loss for Armagh.

Key Scorers for Armagh

Throughout their championship journey, several players have been instrumental in Armagh’s scoring efforts. Conor Turbitt leads the team’s scoring chart with an impressive tally of 0-15, including frees and a mark. Rian O’Neill has also made significant contributions, recording 1-6, consisting of frees and a ’45’. Rory Grugan has proven to be a reliable free-taker, accumulating 0-7, while Shane McPartlan and Andrew Murnin have showcased their scoring prowess with 1-5 and 1-2 respectively.

Westmeath’s Performance Leading Up to the Clash

On the other side, Westmeath’s journey to the encounter has seen them face Louth in the Leinster quarter-final. They put up a spirited fight, but fell short as Louth secured a 2-10 to 1-11 victory. Notably, Westmeath’s fourth-place finish in Division 3 this year granted them a spot in the All-Ireland series, thanks to their success in the previous year’s Tailteann Cup.

Key Scorers for Westmeath

Ronan O’Toole has been Westmeath’s standout scorer, contributing 1-1 to the team’s cause. John Heslin and Luke Loughlin have also been crucial to their scoring efforts, tallying 0-3 each, with Heslin’s points coming from frees. Senan Baker has chipped in with 0-2.

Previous Championship Meetings

Armagh holds the upper hand in the history of championship encounters between the two teams. In their previous clashes, Armagh emerged victorious in both instances. In 2018, Armagh dominated with a convincing 3-16 to 1-11 win, while in 2017, they secured a 1-12 to 1-7 victory.

Armagh battle hardened 

Armagh’s extensive provincial campaign, consisting of four games, highlights their resilience and determination throughout the Championship. This places them as the county with the highest number of provincial games this year. Westmeath’s qualification for the All-Ireland series stems from their successful performance in last year’s Tailteann Cup, where they demonstrated their ability to compete at a high level.

Starting Teams


Prediction and betting odds 

Expect Armagh to win by at least seven points, bookies expect Armagh to win by 8pts. They are 1/12 to win the match with Westmeath at 8/1.

Dublin v Roscommon – Preview, Live Scores and Starting Teams

Leinster Champions Dublin kick off their All-Ireland series campaign against Roscommon in group 3 this Sunday at 4pm in Croke Park.

Click for live scores on Dublin v Roscommon 

Recent Form:

Dublin come into this encounter fresh off the back of winning their 13th consecutive provincial championship after a routine win over Louth. While also defeating Laois and Kildare respectively along the way.

Roscommon will look to bounce back after losing out to Galway in the Connacht championship Semi Final.

Head-to-Head:

This championship match marks the seventh meeting between Dublin and Roscommon. However, history has favored Dublin, as they have emerged victorious in all six previous encounters. Notably, Dublin has amassed an impressive tally of 6-50 against Roscommon in their last two championship clashes in 2018 and 2019. Moreover, Dublin’s dominance extends beyond this matchup, as they scored an impressive 9-51 against Laois and Louth in the Leinster quarter-final and final, respectively.

While Roscommon faces an uphill battle against Dublin, they will aim to defy the odds and secure a historic victory. Roscommon’s last triumph over Dublin in Croke Park dates back to the 1984 National League when they emerged victorious with a narrow 0-8 to 0-6 win in a Division 2 clash. Despite Dublin’s formidable record, it’s worth noting that the only teams to defeat them in the championship since 2015 were Mayo in 2021 and Kerry in 2022.

 

Key Battles:

For Roscommon to stand a chance on Sunday, they will have to rely on their defence which was the best in division 1, conceding just 3 goals. That means experienced campaigners such as David Murray along with Daly brothers Niall and Conor, will have to be at their optimum level to stop the Dublin full forward line.

Starting Teams

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Prediction:

Roscommon managed to be competitive in all games they have played in division 1 this year and Davy Burke’s charges might feel that they can cause an upset.

Dublin look to have dusted off the cobwebs against Louth, after a lethargic performance against Kildare the previous day out. Dublin to win by 5

URC Grand Final 2023: The Stormers vs. Munster – Preview and Starting teams

The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as the DHL Stormers and Munster clash in the highly anticipated URC Grand Final.

Both teams have battled through a grueling season to reach this point, and now they stand on the precipice of glory. As the two sides prepare to go head-to-head, let’s take a closer look at their journey so far and what we can expect from this thrilling encounter.

Head-to-Head Record and Historic Feats

In terms of their overall URC head-to-head record, Munster holds the advantage, having won both of their previous encounters against the Stormers. However, records can be rewritten on the grandest stage, and the Stormers will be determined to overturn this statistic and claim their maiden victory over the Irish side.

The DHL Stormers are aiming to achieve a remarkable back-to-back URC title, a feat previously accomplished only by Leinster. The last time a repeat final venue was witnessed was in 2017 and 2018 at the Aviva Stadium. With their home ground, the DHL Stadium, hosting its second successive final, the Stormers will have the backing of their passionate fans as they look to etch their names in URC history.

Recent Form and Playoff Success

The Stormers have been in scintillating form, having secured victory in their last three matches since their home defeat to Munster earlier in the season. Remarkably, that loss was the Stormers’ only defeat at home in any competition since December 2021 when the Lions triumphed at the DHL Stadium. Furthermore, they have not tasted defeat in a playoff fixture since July 2017 when the Chiefs emerged victorious in the quarter-final of Super Rugby.

However, the Stormers’ triumphs over Irish provinces have been scarce this season, with their only two victories against Connacht. This adds another layer of challenge as they face Munster, a team with a strong track record in URC Finals.

Munster’s URC Final Legacy and Resilient Away Performances

For Munster, this is their seventh appearance in a URC Final. They have emerged victorious in two of their previous encounters, defeating Neath at the Principality Stadium in 2003 and triumphing over Leinster in Limerick in 2011. However, they have fallen short in their last three Championship finals, losing to Glasgow in 2015, Scarlets in 2017, and most recently, Leinster in 2021. Eager to redeem themselves, Munster will be highly motivated to seize the URC crown.

Munster’s recent away performances have been noteworthy. Although they suffered defeat in their opening four away games this campaign, they have been undefeated on the road since then. Their resilience and determination will be key assets as they aim to topple the reigning champions on their home turf.

Head-to-Head Comparison

When comparing the two teams’ performances in the URC this season, the Stormers finished in the third position with an impressive record of 12 wins, 2 draws, and 4 losses, amassing 68 points. Munster secured the fifth spot with 10 wins, 1 draw, and 7 losses, accumulating 55 points. Both sides have shown glimpses of their potential and have displayed resilience throughout the season.

In terms of recent form, the Stormers have claimed victory in their last three URC matches, accumulating 23 points. Similarly, Munster enters the final on the back of four consecutive unbeaten games, also earning 23 points. These statistics highlight the formidable form and momentum both teams bring to this climactic encounter.

Starting teams for  Stormers v Munster

There are three personnel changes and one positional switch to the side that won away to Leinster in the semi-final.

Conor Murray, Malakai Fekitoa and Calvin Nash return to the side after completing their return to play protocols following the quarter-final against Glasgow.

Murray and Jack Crowley start together in the half-backs as Crowley moves from inside centre to out-half.

Fekitoa resumes his centre partnership with Antoine Frisch in midfield as Nash joins full-back Mike Haley and Shane Daly to start in the back three.

The pack is unchanged with Captain Peter O’Mahony joined by John Hodnett and Gavin Coombes in the back row.

Jeremy Loughman, Diarmuid Barron and Stephen Archer pack down in the front row while Jean Kleyn and Tadhg Beirne start in the engine room.

RG Snyman joins the squad as a replacement.

Munster: Mike Haley; Calvin Nash, Antoine Frisch, Malakai Fekitoa, Shane Daly; Jack Crowley, Conor Murray; Jeremy Loughman, Diarmuid Barron, Stephen Archer; Jean Kleyn, Tadhg Beirne; Peter O’Mahony (C), John Hodnett, Gavin Coombes.

Replacements: Niall Scannell, Josh Wycherley, Roman Salanoa, RG Snyman, Alex Kendellen, Craig Casey, Ben Healy, Keith Earls.

 

URC Grand Final

Saturday, May 27

DHL Stormers v Munster, DHL Stadium, 5.30pm Irish time; Live on TG4

Manchester United Outshine Chelsea to Secure Champions League Spot

In a thrilling encounter, Manchester United emerged victorious with a commanding 4-1 win over Chelsea, securing their place in next season’s Champions League.

 

The result propelled them into third position, surpassing Newcastle United. The match showcased Manchester United’s clinical finishing, while Chelsea struggled to convert their numerous opportunities. The standout performer of the game was Casemiro, who proved to be the difference maker.

Clinical Finishing Gives Manchester United the Edge:

Despite Chelsea’s dominance in possession and numerous chances, Manchester United’s clinical finishing set them apart. The Red Devils efficiently capitalized on their opportunities, leaving Chelsea frustrated in their quest for goals. The match was a treat for neutral spectators, as both teams displayed attacking intent and created an enthralling spectacle.

Bruno Fernandes Reflects on Manchester United’s Achievement:

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes expressed his satisfaction with securing a Champions League spot. He acknowledged that while it is a decent achievement, the team aspires for more success. Considering their performance throughout the season, Fernandes views securing a trophy as a fitting outcome after falling short in the Premier League title race. He emphasized the importance of ending the league campaign on a high note and targeting success in the FA Cup.

Supporters’ Impact and Appreciation:

Fernandes commended the Manchester United fans for their unwavering support throughout the season. He acknowledged their contribution to the team’s success, highlighting the electric atmosphere they created at Old Trafford. The midfielder expressed deep gratitude for the fans’ dedication, recognizing their crucial role in motivating the players to perform at their best.

Derailing Liverpool’s Champions League Hopes:

Fernandes acknowledged the significance of denying Liverpool a place in the Champions League, recognizing the emotional value this holds for the Manchester United faithful. However, he emphasized that their primary focus remains on achieving their own goals and ambitions. While preventing Liverpool’s qualification would be an added bonus, Fernandes reiterated the team’s commitment to pursuing their own objectives.

FA Cup Final Showdown with Manchester City:

Looking ahead to the FA Cup final, Fernandes highlighted the team’s determination to emerge victorious. He emphasized the importance of securing the trophy, as it represents another opportunity for Manchester United to assert their dominance. The midfielder acknowledged the significance of preventing Manchester City from completing a treble but underscored that their main motivation lies in adding another trophy to their collection.

Manchester United’s impressive 4-1 victory over Chelsea not only secured their place in the Champions League but also highlighted their clinical edge in front of goal. Bruno Fernandes expressed his satisfaction with the team’s achievement while recognizing the crucial role of the fans in their success. The FA Cup final against Manchester City represents another chance for Manchester United to lift silverware and further solidify their status as a dominant force in English football.

Video : Hukum beats Derby winner Desert Crown on route to Royal Ascot

Hukum, the 5-1 underdog, made a triumphant return to the racetrack after nearly a year since his Group One victory in the DahlBury Coronation Cup. The seasoned gelding outperformed the 2022 Derby winner, Desert Crown (2-5 favorite), who was also making his comeback since Epsom Downs. The thrilling encounter took place during the Group Three Racehorse Lotto Brigadier Gerard Stakes at Sandown Park.

In the race, Desert Crown took the lead a furlong and a half from the finish line, appearing to have a secure hold on the victory as he accelerated impressively, establishing a clear advantage. Meanwhile, Hukum faced some challenges navigating through the field and still had a significant gap to close as they entered the final furlong. However, the determined six-year-old, guided by jockey Jim Crowley, showcased his resilience and gradually caught up to Desert Crown, ultimately seizing the win by half a length. Hukum’s memorable triumph was highlighted by the iconic blue and white Shadwell silks.

Reflecting on the race, winning trainer Owen Burrows expressed his astonishment at Hukum’s exceptional performance. He credited jockey Jim Crowley, who had previously mentioned the horse’s improved speed during training sessions. Burrows revealed that Hukum underwent necessary gallops in the previous week to prevent him from being overly fresh, and the strategy paid off splendidly. The victory in the Brigadier Gerard Stakes was seen as a preparatory run for the upcoming Hardwicke Stakes.

Burrows emphasized the importance of favorable ground conditions for Hukum, stating that if the going was on the fast side of good, they would need to reconsider their plans. Despite Hukum’s previous success over longer distances, including a win over a mile and six furlongs, Burrows emphasized the horse’s inherent speed. He acknowledged the need to challenge the perception of Hukum as a slow horse and hinted that there might be slight adjustments to their plans. However, at the moment, the trainer did not anticipate significant changes. Notably, Hukum and Desert Crown were closely matched in ratings, further underlining the significance of Hukum’s triumph.

Burrows expressed his gratitude to Sheikha Hissa, who had generously agreed to send Hukum back for training after his injury. The trainer recognized the valuable addition of a Group win over a mile and a quarter to Hukum’s racing record, as it helped dispel the notion of him being solely a stayer. Burrows praised the course conditions provided by Andrew Cooper, the Clerk of the Course at Sandown Park, and admitted to having initial concerns about the ground. He humorously shared that he had walked the full distance himself and felt a bit tired, receiving a playful comment from Richard Hills, indicating that he hoped Hukum was fitter than the trainer. Overall, the race was crucial in getting Hukum back on track before the prestigious Royal Ascot.

Jockey Jim Crowley commended the remarkable training efforts of Owen Burrows and the entire Shadwell team for successfully bringing Hukum back to form. Crowley regarded Hukum as a genuinely exceptional horse and expressed hope for further Group One successes in the future. While acknowledging that Desert Crown had the advantage of a head start in the race, Crowley believed that Hukum’s true potential would be realized over longer distances, particularly a mile and a half. The jockey appreciated witnessing Hukum’s convincing victory over 10 furlongs and expressed a desire to see him compete in a wet King George race during the summer

Why Evan Ferguson’s a shining star for club and country

Evan Ferguson’s breakthrough year in the English Premier League (EPL) has propelled the Irish teenager to become a wanted man both in England and Italy.



The Brighton & Hove Albion hot-shot, who started and scored in Ireland’s 3-2 success against Latvia in March, is being monitored by such major clubs as Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Italian giants AS Roma.

Ferguson’s impact for the Seagulls this term has resulted in such a meteoric rise that he recently put pen to paper on the English south coast, to extend his contract to 2028.

The icing on the cake for the Bettystown native’s remarkable season was bagging a brace in their recent 3-1 triumph over Southampton. This sealed European football for the first time in Brighton’s history.

He then outshined Manchester City’s attackers, including goal machine Erling Haaland, in their fast-paced 1-1 stalemate at the AMEX Stadium.

While it appears unlikely that offers will be entertained during the summer, Ferguson could be moving to a new club at the end of next season. This seems a spectacular rise for a player who only made his first EPL start at the beginning of 2023.

Manchester United are likely to be his favoured choice, as he used to support the club and his great uncle Damien was on the books at Old Trafford but never played a game. Old Trafford rumours consider Ferguson a bargain at £50 million.

The tenacious teenager offers more than scoring goals. He holds the ball up well with great touch, makes intelligent runs and is clinical when he gets his chance.  

Having only been called up to the Irish senior squad for the first time in November 2022, his attributes offer Stephen Kenny a focal point to his Ireland team that has long been lacking.

Ferguson’s goals would totally transform Ireland’s fortunes as they tackle the EURO 2024 Qualifying campaign against France, Gibraltar, Greece and the Netherlands from June to November.

Showcasing his skills on the international stage means that an overseas move is viable. Should Jose Mourinho remain as AS Roma head coach, and not be allured by Paris St.-Germain, then the Portuguese could get the most of Ferguson.

Mourinho enhanced his reputation as the self-acclaimed “Special One” by brilliantly utilising such big and physical forwards as Tammy Abraham and Didier Drogba.

who fancies betting where he could end up next should check out online-slot.co.uk,” we are kind of misleading readers since online-slot only has casino reviews. Can we reword it to mention bet365 first for example? (then make the connection by saying that bet365 is an operator that is favored by both casino enthusiasts, as online-slot.co.uk outlines, as well as betting enthusiasts) – something like that

It wouldn’t be a gamble for Ferguson to ply his trade overseas. Anyone who fancies betting where he could end up next should check out Bet365, an operator favoured by both casino enthusiasts — as online-slot.co.uk acknowledges as well as betting fans.

Ferguson’s emergence is not sudden, He kicked off his passion to be a striker with the schoolboy club St. Kevin’s Boys in Dublin, then competed in the youth section for Bohemians and moved onto the National Underage Leagues.

His senior debut, as a 14-year-old substitute, was for League of Ireland outfit Bohemians when Dalymount Park welcomed Chelsea for a friendly in July 2019.

Fast forward 18 months and Ferguson had to decide between signing for either Brighton or Liverpool. He made his first team debut, as an 81st-minute substitute, in August 2021 and bagged his inaugural professional goal for Brighton U23 in November 2021.

With the bit between his teeth, he started to make in-roads from being a fringe player and in February 2022 made his EPL debut as a sub against Burnley. Six months later he found the back of the net for the Seagulls, in their EPL Cup success over Forest Green Rovers.

Going from strength to strength this season, Ferguson signed his first long-term professional contract at Brighton on his 18th birthday — 19 October 2022 — which ensured he was committed to the club until 2026.

He became both Brighton’s and Ireland’s youngest ever EPL goal scorer in their 4–2 home reversal to Arsenal on New Year’s Eve.

Even though Ferguson recently committed his future to the Seagulls, he remains on the radar of the top teams who are already preparing to tackle next season’s EPL.

Another feast of football from Ferguson appears on the menu for the 2023/24 campaign, wherever he kicks off the season, with both club and country wanting more than a slice of the luck from their Irish shining star.

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The globalisation of the Premier League has come at the expense of British and Irish talents

The English Premier League is by far the most popular football league across the globe.

It is followed by fans from all regions of the world, as it features the greatest players, as well as generally players from all corners of the Earth.

Decades in the past, the league was heavily dominated by British and Irish players. Foreign nationals were once a rarity in the top flight but now they are the very reason that the league’s product thrives. What are the reasons for the league no longer being dominated by players from the United Kingdom and Ireland? Is the disparity due to footballing ability, or is there a structural issue?

Man City have a predominantly foreign squad

Manchester City is a great example to use when looking at what factors deliver success in the league. They have won five out of the past six titles, with foreign nations often being their standout players. In the English Premier League winner oddsfor the 2023/24 season, they will likely be expected to claim their sixth crown in seven years. This would represent an unrivalled level of dominance in England.

City’s league-winning squad this season featured just three English starters and there was not an Irish player in sight. Before their takeover in 2008, their key players included Irish internationals Richard Dunne and Stephen Ireland. However, once a club has significant transfer funds available, there are often greater markets to exploit than Britain and Ireland. 

<blockquote class=”twitter-tweet”><p lang=”en” dir=”ltr”>🗣️Richard Dunne: “If you go through Man City&#39;s squad, there is nobody that Man United, Chelsea, or Liverpool couldn&#39;t afford. Man City have got a plan for how they recruit people, how they do it &amp; what type of player they want for each position. Over a period of 2 years. 

The likes of Kevin de Bruyne now highlight the City squad, and some top English internationals play alongside them. It is tough to envision developing talents breaking through into the City squad. A huge structural issue with player development in English football is that there is rarely a clear pathway for stars to progress through the ranks.

This means that top English and Irish talents are rarely given the necessary opportunities in order to flourish at top clubs. They can often spend many years stagnating at the academy of a leading club, before eventually plummeting down the pyramid at the end of their contract. 

The depth of worldwide talent available

In recent decades the level of scouting available at top clubs has reached an unprecedented level. Major English clubs have the ability to scout all areas of the world to find hidden talents. This comes at the expense of British and Irish talents. Clubs would rather sign players on cheap deals from areas like South America than pay a premium for British and Irish players. Again looking at Manchester City their recent transfer market dealings show that they have more often brought in Argentinian exports than they have promoted English and Irish talents from their development squads in recent times.

Perhaps there is simply too much competition in the UK and Ireland. Players are under immense pressure to stand out. While players from Argentina and Brazil amongst other nations, can often showcase their abilities at first-team level from a younger age. 

Ultimately, the culture of promoting from within has died out in the English game in recent history. The height of the competitiveness in the league means that teams do not have the patience for players to develop. Top British and Irish players will surely continue to be prevalent in the Premier League in the future, but they will likely always be rivalled by marketable foreign nationals. The greatest players ever to play in the league tend to have been imported from abroad. 

Leinster Minor Football semi-final reviews – Dublin v Kildare Final

Leinster Minor Football Semi-Final Reviews

Click here for preview of Dublin v Kildare minor football final


Dublin 6-15 Offaly 1-8: Dublin’s Dominance

Dublin showcased their attacking prowess in a dominant performance against Offaly. The game started strongly for Dublin, with Paddy Curry and Harry Curley scoring impressive goals. However, Offaly managed to respond with a goal from Cian Bracken, keeping themselves in the match. Despite enjoying possession, Offaly struggled to convert their chances, while Dublin continued to create high-quality opportunities. Lenny Cahill’s exceptional point-scoring ability was a standout feature of Dublin’s play. With contributions from players like Cillian Bourke, Cameron Egan, and Robert Carney, Dublin established a commanding lead by halftime.

A missed penalty by Offaly further dampened their hopes of a comeback, and Dublin went on to score more goals through Curley and Luke O’Boyle. Noah Byrne was once again on the goal scoring sheet and looks a real star of the championship for Dublin.

Shane Mullarkey’s impressive performance off the bench added to Dublin’s strength. The final scoreline of 6-15 to 1-8 reflected Dublin’s comprehensive victory.

Kildare 0-13 Meath 0-12: A Tight Battle

The clash between Kildare and Meath at Hawkfield was a closely contested affair. Meath’s Cian Commons and Kildare’s Joey Cunningham emerged as the standout performers, scoring 0-5 and 0-4 respectively. Commons played a crucial role in pushing Meath ahead early on with three points.

However, Kildare staged a strong comeback in the second and third quarters, relying on their defensive resilience and the accurate long-range kicking of goalkeeper Cathal Moore. Points from Cunningham, Donnchadh Kinch, and Evan Donnelly helped Kildare establish a narrow lead.

Meath made a late surge, closing the gap to just one point on two occasions, but Kildare managed to hold on until the final whistle, securing a hard-fought 0-13 to 0-12 victory.

Dublin vs. Kildare Final: A Repeat of Last Year’s Showdown

The stage is set for an exciting rematch in the Electric Ireland Leinster minor football final. Dublin and Kildare, the only unbeaten teams in the competition, emerged as the finalists in contrasting styles.

Dublin’s attacking prowess and ability to capitalize on mistakes were on full display in their comprehensive win over Offaly.

On the other hand, Kildare showcased their resilience and determination to secure a narrow victory against Meath. With both teams vying for the Leinster title once again, the final promises to be a thrilling encounter.

Preview of the final day of the 2022/23 Premier League matches

Preview  of the final day matches in the 2022/23 Premier League, if bookmakers like Betway are correct it looks like Everton will avoid relegation.

Arsenal vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers

  • Arsenal: Aiming for Record Wins
    • Arsenal has won 25 league games this season, second only to their title-winning campaigns of 2001-02 and 2003-04.
    • Arsenal has historically performed well on the final day, with a 70% win rate in their last match of the season.
  • Wolverhampton Wanderers: Struggling Away
    • Wolverhampton is winless in their last seven away league games, losing the last three by a wide margin.

Aston Villa vs. Brighton and Hove Albion

  • Aston Villa: European Aspirations
    • A victory for Villa will secure at least a Europa Conference League spot, their first European competition since 2010-11.
    • Villa has a strong recent record against Brighton, winning their last three league encounters.
  • Brighton and Hove Albion: Relying on Welbeck’s Form
    • Brighton’s Danny Welbeck has been involved in five goals in his last four matchday 38 appearances, scoring in his last two games.
    • Brighton will look to break their losing streak against Villa.

Brentford vs. Manchester City

  • Brentford: Eyeing an Upset
    • Brentford previously defeated Manchester City this season and aims to complete a league double over them.
  • Manchester City: Haaland and De Bruyne’s Influence
    • Erling Haaland has been instrumental for City, scoring five of their nine league goals in London.
    • Kevin De Bruyne has an impressive record on the final day, being involved in nine goals in his last six appearances.
    • City will be determined to avenge their earlier loss to Brentford.

Chelsea vs. Newcastle United

  • Chelsea: Winless at Home
    • Chelsea is winless in their last seven home games in all competitions, their longest such run since 1987-88.
    • Kai Havertz and Raheem Sterling are Chelsea’s top scorers at Stamford Bridge this season.
  • Newcastle United: Trippier’s Creative Impact
    • Kieran Trippier has created a record-breaking 110 chances in the league this season, the most by any Newcastle player since 2003-04.

Crystal Palace vs. Nottingham Forest

  • Crystal Palace: Eze’s Influential Season
    • Eberechi Eze has been involved in 14 goals in 37 league games this season, more than any other Palace player.
    • Palace has lost just one of their last nine home league matches and is unbeaten in four games since Roy Hodgson’s return.
  • Nottingham Forest: Awoniyi’s Consistency
    • Taiwo Awoniyi has scored in all seven league games he has found the net, putting Forest 1-0 ahead every time.

Everton vs. Bournemouth

  • Everton: McNeil’s Goal-Scoring Record
    • Dwight McNeil is Everton’s top league goal-scorer this season with seven goals, the lowest for a top scorer since 2001-02.
    • Everton is winless in their last four home league games, conceding 10 goals in the process.
  • Bournemouth: Safe from Relegation
    • Despite conceding 70 goals, Bournemouth is safe from relegation and can finish as high as 13th.

Leeds United vs. Tottenham Hotspur

  • Leeds United: Fight Against Relegation
    • Leeds will face relegation if they fail to defeat Tottenham, marking their seventh top-flight relegation and their second from the league after 2003-04.
  • Tottenham Hotspur: European Football at Stake
    • A defeat for Tottenham would mean no European football for them next season, the first time since 2009-10.
    • Harry Kane has been the leading goal scorer in the league, finding the net in 25 games this season.

Leicester City vs. West Ham United

  • Leicester City: Battle to Avoid Relegation
    • Leicester needs a win to avoid relegation from the top-flight, just seven years after their title triumph.
    • James Maddison has been their key player, contributing the most goals and assists for the team this season.
  • West Ham United: Bowen’s Impact
    • Jarrod Bowen has been involved in five goals in his five league games against Leicester, displaying his effectiveness against them.

Manchester United vs. Fulham

  • Manchester United: Dominance against Promoted Sides
    • United has won all five of their league games against promoted teams this season and will look to continue their perfect record.
    • Fulham is guaranteed their best top-half finish in the league since 2011-12.
  • Fulham: Mitrovic’s Goal-Scoring Form
    • Aleksandar Mitrovic has scored 14 league goals this season, including three in his two games since returning from suspension.

Southampton vs. Liverpool

  • Southampton: Seeking Redemption against Liverpool
    • Southampton has lost 10 of their last 11 league games against Liverpool, with a solitary home win in January 2021.
  • Liverpool: Salah’s Prolific Form
    • Mohamed Salah has been in sensational form, involved in 17 goals in 14 league games since March, the most by any player in the competition during that period.
    • Liverpool has won their last three away league games, improving their away form in the latter part of the season.

The final day of the 2022/23 Premier League season promises exciting battles, with teams fighting for European spots, battling relegation, and seeking to end their campaigns on a high note. Fans can anticipate thrilling encounters as the season concludes.

Steelers awarded rights to build global brand for the island of Ireland

The Pittsburgh Steelers were awarded rights to expand their brand and activities for the Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland, as part of the NFL’s ‘Global Markets Program’, it was announced by the National Football League on May 23, 2023.

A Special Connection: Art Rooney II’s Vision for Ireland

“We are excited to have been granted the rights to engage more deeply with our fans in Ireland,” Steelers President Art Rooney II said. “My family has deep roots throughout Ireland and being able to connect with our fans across the Island is something special to our organization. My father did so much in Ireland during his lifetime, first as one of the founders of the Ireland Funds, then as Ambassador. We look forward to growing our fan base and the love of American football in the years to come.”

Expanding Activities and Strengthening Partnerships

Pittsburgh can carry out in-person activities such as fan and youth football activities throughout Ireland. The ‘Global Markets Program’ license also enables the Steelers to partake in corporate sponsorship and merchandise sales, as well as co-marketing relationships throughout the island of Ireland.

“We are thrilled the Pittsburgh Steelers have been awarded the marketing and commercial rights to the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland,” said Brett Gosper, Head of NFL Europe & UK. “With their deep roots and heritage, the Steelers make for a fantastic partner in helping to grow and engage with the passionate NFL fan base across the island of Ireland. Growing the game globally is a major strategic priority for the League and 32 clubs, and the ‘Global Markets Program’ will continue to help accelerate the momentum and interest in our sport around the world.”

Honoring Dan Rooney’s Legacy

Dublin’s Croke Park played host to the Steelers and Chicago Bears preseason game in 1997, still the only NFL game to ever be played in Ireland. The game was made possible in large part to the Steelers late Chairman, Dan Rooney. Rooney’s ties with Ireland were notable, as he served as the United States Ambassador to Ireland from 2009-2012. He also helped establish the Ireland Funds, a program founded to promote and support peace, culture, education and community development across Ireland and among Irish communities around the world.

Rooney also worked to further the knowledge of the game of football throughout Ireland, efforts that included an annual flag football contest.

Building on Tradition: Bringing Back Initiatives

This ‘Global Markets Program’ license will enable the Steelers to bring back some of the traditions and initiatives instituted by Dan Rooney, as well as to bring some new ones forward. The team has already launched dedicated Irish social media accounts and intends to hold its first in-market event this upcoming season by hosting a fan watch party. As part of its long-term planning, the team aspires to return to the island to play an NFL game.

The ‘Global Markets Program’ and Future Plans

As part of the ‘Global Markets Program’ initiative, NFL clubs have access to international markets for at least a five-year term, during which a club has the rights to pursue activities in that international market that are consistent with what they can do in their home market.

Following the granting of the ‘Global Markets Program’ for Ireland, the Steelers are looking to host a series of events for new and existing fans such as watch parties and flag football events, and will work to connect Ireland with Pittsburgh.

About the Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers, founded on July 8, 1933, by Arthur Joseph Rooney, are the fifth-oldest franchise in the NFL. Pittsburgh is among the most successful franchises in League history, with six Super Bowl titles and numerous conference title game appearances. The Steelers have a rich history and have played a significant role

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