Gaelic Football New Rule Changes for 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Gaelic Football Rule Changes for 2025: Everything You Need to Know

The Standing Committee on Playing Rules has proposed several rule changes for the 2025 Gaelic football season. These updates, if approved, will impact kick-outs, advanced marks, player positioning, scoring, fouls, and discipline. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and their potential impact on the game.

1. Kick-Out Mark – More Protection for Players

A major change to the kick-out mark rule ensures better protection for players making a clean catch.

A player who catches a kick-out mark may play on immediately without being challenged within four metres.
If illegally challenged, the player will be awarded a free kick 50m more advantageous, up to the opponent’s 13m line.
The free kick may be taken from outside the 40m arc, even if the original foul occurred inside it.

Impact: This rule encourages contested kick-outs while rewarding clean marks with better attacking positions.

2. Advanced Mark – Clearer Advantage Rule

The updated advanced mark rule clarifies when an advantage is applied:

If a point or goal is scored, the advantage applies.
If no advantage occurs, the referee will reset play at the mark’s original location.

Impact: Ensures fair application of the rule and reduces unnecessary stoppages.

3. Minimum Players in Each Half – New Tactical Restrictions

A new rule requires teams to maintain balance across the field:

At least four players (including the goalkeeper) must remain in their own half.
At least three outfield players must be in the opposition’s half.

Exceptions: If a player unintentionally crosses the halfway line, is within 4m of it, or is not interfering with play, no breach occurs.

Impact: Designed to prevent ultra-defensive tactics and promote a more attacking game.

4. Scoring Changes – Introduction of Two-Point Scores

A significant scoring change introduces two-point scores for long-range kicks.

A player who kicks a point from outside the 40m arc, with at least one foot on or beyond it, earns two points.
The ball must not be touched by another player before crossing the bar.
Exceptions: A point from a 45 will still count as one point.

Impact: Rewards long-range accuracy and adds a new tactical dimension to attacking play.

5. Technical Fouls – Free Kicks for Illegal Positioning

A new rule enforces positional discipline:

If a player breaches the minimum players in each half rule while receiving or intercepting a ball, the referee will award a free kick from where the player crossed the halfway line.

Impact: Ensures teams comply with the new field positioning rules.

6. Stricter Penalties for Dissent & Abuse of Officials

New penalties target misconduct by team officials, including:

Verbal abuse of referees, umpires, or sideline officials.
Physical interference, such as pushing or jostling an official.
Assault on a match official.

Penalty: A free kick from the offending team’s 20m line, or optionally from the 40m arc, where a successful kick will be worth two points.

Impact: Aimed at protecting officials and reducing abuse during games.

Final Thoughts

These proposed rule changes are set to shape Gaelic football in 2025, bringing more clarity, fairness, and attacking play to the game. If approved, they will influence how teams approach kick-outs, scoring, defensive structures, and discipline.

How Do Player Props Work In NFL Betting?

Player props are an exciting way to bet on NFL games without worrying about the final score.

Instead of betting on which team wins, you wager on individual player performances—like passing yards, rushing attempts, or even touchdowns. These bets allow you to focus on specific matchups, player trends, and game scripts, making them popular among sharp bettors and casual fans alike.

What Are NFL Player Props?

Player prop bets revolve around statistical performances in an NFL game. Rather than backing a team, you’re betting on an individual’s output. Sportsbooks set over/under lines on a variety of categories, allowing bettors to predict whether a player will exceed or fall short of expectations.

Common player props include:

● Passing Props – Total passing yards, completions, touchdowns, or interceptions thrown.

● Rushing Props – Total rushing yards or carries.

● Receiving Props – Total receptions, yards, or receiving touchdowns.

● Scoring Props – Anytime touchdown scorer or first touchdown scorer.

● Defensive Props – Total tackles, sacks, or interceptions.

Some books even offer combo props, like a quarterback’s combined passing and rushing yards or a receiver’s yards plus touchdowns.

How Do Player Prop Lines Work?

Sportsbooks set player prop lines using a combination of historical data, matchup analysis, and betting trends. Each prop has an over/under total with odds attached to both sides, typically in fractional or decimal odds format (e.g., Over 275.5 Passing Yards at 10/11 or Under 275.5 Passing Yards at 19/20).

These lines aren’t static—they shift based on betting action, injuries, and other factors. If a quarterback’s passing yardage prop opens at 275.5 yards, but sharp bettors back the Over heavily, sportsbooks may adjust the total to 280.5 yards to balance the action. That’s why checking the latest line before placing your bet is crucial. A five-yard shift might not seem like much, but over time, these small differences can make or break profitability.

If you stake £115 on the Over at 10/11 odds, you’d win £100 if the quarterback surpasses 275.5 yards. But if you take the latest line at 280.5 yards, he now needs an extra completion or two to cash your bet. Tracking line movement ensures you get the best number before the market adjusts.

What Impacts NFL Player Props?

Several factors influence player props, from defensive matchups to weather conditions. Bettors who pay attention to these details can gain an edge over the sportsbook and make more informed decisions.

Matchups and Opponent Strength

Defensive rankings are crucial when analyzing player props. A quarterback up against a weak secondary is more likely to surpass his passing yardage prop, while a running back facing a top-tier rush defense may have a harder time. Assessing opponent tendencies is key to uncovering valuable betting opportunities.

Game Script and Pace

Teams playing from behind tend to pass more, increasing opportunities for quarterbacks and receivers. Conversely, teams with a lead run more, benefiting running backs. Understanding a team’s offensive tendencies and projected game flow is crucial for prop betting success.

Injuries and Player Usage

The absence of a star wide receiver can result in increased targets for secondary players, making their reception props more valuable. Likewise, an injured starting running back often opens up opportunities for backups to step in. However, injuries aren’t the only consideration—coaching decisions, changes in the depth chart, and trends in player workload can also impact betting value.

That’s why staying updated on NFL player news is essential. A last-minute lineup change, a reduced snap count, or even a coach hinting at a different game plan can significantly impact player props. If a team announces a reduced workload for a running back due to a lingering injury, his rushing yards total might still be set too high, creating a valuable betting opportunity. Always check the latest reports before placing a wager.

Key Strategies for Betting NFL Player Props

Winning in player prop betting isn’t just about picking your favourite players—it requires research, timing, and strategy. Knowing how to spot soft lines and identify value can make a huge difference in long-term success.

1. Research Trends and Historical Data

A player’s recent performances provides insight into their likely output. If a quarterback has thrown for over 250 yards in five straight games, that trend may continue unless the matchup suggests otherwise.

2. Exploit Soft Lines Early

Sportsbooks release player props days before kickoff, but they don’t always get them right. Early in the week, lines can be softer before sharp bettors force adjustments. Identifying mispriced props early often provides better value.

3. Consider Correlation

Some props are directly linked. If you expect a team to win big, their running back’s carries may increase, while their quarterback’s passing yards might decrease. Identifying correlated outcomes can help refine bets.

4. Line Shopping for the Best Odds

Not all sportsbooks offer the same lines or odds. If one book sets a quarterback’s passing yards at 260.5 while another offers 255.5, taking the lower number provides a better chance of winning. Comparing books for the best lines maximizes value over time.

5. Monitor Late-Breaking News

NFL rosters aren’t finalized until just before kickoff. A late injury, coach’s decision, or unexpected lineup change can dramatically alter a player’s role. Staying updated helps avoid bad bets and creates opportunities to exploit last-minute adjustments.

The Appeal of NFL Player Props

Unlike traditional bets tied to the final score, player props provide action throughout the game. A quarterback hitting his passing yard total in the third quarter or a receiver catching a touchdown in the first half allows for immediate results. Props also let bettors capitalize on specific knowledge—whether it’s identifying a defense’s weakness or anticipating a player’s breakout performance.

Additionally, sportsbooks often limit betting volume on props due to their vulnerability to sharp bettors. While this means professional bettors can’t wager as much, it presents opportunities for those who can accurately predict player performance.

Maximizing Value with NFL Player Props

NFL player props add a unique dimension to sports betting, allowing bettors to focus on individual matchups and statistical performances. By analyzing trends, matchups, and game scripts, bettors can find value beyond traditional spreads and totals. Success requires research, timing, and discipline, but with the right approach, player props can be a highly profitable betting market.

Inothewayurthinkin Heads Strong Irish Entries For 2025 Grand National

An Irish-trained horse has won five of the last six renewals of the Grand National at Aintree, and with some strong entries this year, there is a good chance Ireland could continue to dominate the world’s most famous steeplechase.

Irish Champion Trainer Willie Mullins, multiple Grand National winner Gordon Elliott and Henry De Bromhead all have entries in the Aintree feature. It includes Inothewayurthinkin, who with an official rating of 160, is one of the highest-rated horses in the race.

Grade One Winning Chaser Looking for More Success at Venue

Inothewayurthinkin won the Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree last season, proving his ability at the highest level. He is now the 7/1 favourite in the betting on horse racing to have more success at the meeting, this time in the Grand National.

Gavin Cromwell’s runner sits ahead of last year’s champion, I Am Maximus, who is 12/1 in the Grand National betting. He has finished in front of the Aintree hero in both the Savills Chase and Irish Gold Cup this season.

🟢🟡 @DerekOConnor82 has ice in his veins 🥶

Glorious ride, glorious performance. Inothewayurthinkin absolutely hoses up in the Kim Muir for Gavin Cromwell & JP McManus pic.twitter.com/ai5EUtWulm

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) March 14, 2024

The seven-year-old added his name to the roll of honour at the Cheltenham Festival in 2024, winning the Kim Muir Challenge Cup. Since then, he has not featured outside of Grade One company. His owner JP McManus has won the Grand National three times and his latest chaser will have a great chance of helping the Irishman prevail in the marathon race for a record fourth occasion.

I Am Maximus Handed Top Weight in Defence of Crown

Mullins tasted success in the Grand National for the second time in his career when I Am Maximus prevailed in Liverpool in 2024. His chaser scored by just over seven lengths, a victory which helped the trainer seal the Trainers’ Championship title.

I Am Maximus’ task will be much harder this year as he will have 6lb more weight on his back. The handicapper has handed the champion top weight in the field, something no horse has prevailed with since Red Rum in 1977.

Mullins has opted to give his runner just two appearances this season ahead of his return to the Grand National. He was pulled up in the Savills Chase on his first run of the campaign. The 10-year-old then fared better at the Dublin Racing Festival, finishing eighth in the Irish Gold Cup.

Intense Raffles Vying to Complete Grand National Double

Run it back ⏪

An incredible performance from Intense Raffles to win the Irish Grand National!#ITVRacing pic.twitter.com/yV9JLaF0Gr

— ITV Racing (@itvracing) April 2, 2024

Intense Raffle will be bidding to become just the sixth horse to complete the Grand National and Irish Grand National double in their careers when he lines up at Aintree later this year. Last season’s impressive Fairyhouse winner has shown he has the stamina for the longer distances.

Thomas Gibney’s runner appeared over fences for the first time this season in the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse in February. He finished a close second behind Nick Rockett in a race that has recently been considered a trial for the Grand National. His connections were delighted with that performance and are now happy to head across the Irish Sea with their talented chaser.

The 2025 Grand National is set to take place on Saturday, 5th of April at 16:00. It will be the 177th running of the steeplechase in history.

Team Ireland Athletes & Full Schedule – European Athletics Indoor Championships 2025

Team Ireland has officially departed for the 2025 European Athletics Indoor Championships, taking place in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, from March 6th to 9th.

The event will feature 700 elite athletes from 50 nations, competing over four action-packed days at the sold-out Omnisport Apeldoorn stadium, which will host over 27,500 spectators.

🇮🇪 Full List of Irish Athletes at European Indoor Championships 2025

🏃‍♂️ Individual Events

• Sharlene Mawdsley – Women’s 400m

• Sarah Healy – Women’s 3000m

• Jodie McCann – Women’s 3000m

• Sarah Lavin – Women’s 60m Hurdles

• Kate O’Connor – Women’s Pentathlon

• Andrew Coscoran – Men’s 3000m

• Cathal Doyle – Men’s 1500m

• Mark English – Men’s 800m

• Cian McPhillips – Men’s 800m

• James Gormley – Men’s 3000m

• Bori Akinola – Men’s 60m

• Lauren Cadden – Women’s 400m

• Rachel McCann – Women’s 400m

🔹 Irish Athletes in Relay Events

• Mixed 4x400m Relay Team (Athletes TBD)

• Women’s 4x400m Relay Team (Including Olympic finalists Phil Healy & Sharlene Mawdsley)

🏆 Paralympic Athlete Representing Ireland

• Orla Comerford – Para 60m Mixed Classification

📅 Full Team Ireland Schedule – European Athletics Indoor Championships 2025

🔹 Thursday, March 6th – Evening Session

• 18:55 – Men’s 1500m – Round One (Cathal Doyle)

• 19:50 – Women’s 60m Hurdles – Round One (Sarah Lavin)

• 20:50 – Mixed 4x400m Relay – Final

🔹 Friday, March 7th – Morning Session

• 10:05 – Men’s 800m – Round One (Mark English, Cian McPhillips)

• 10:55 – Women’s 400m – Round One (Sharlene Mawdsley, Lauren Cadden)

• 12:45 – Women’s 60m Hurdles – Semi-Final (Sarah Lavin) [If Qualified]

🔹 Friday, March 7th – Evening Session

• 18:58 – Women’s 400m – Semi-Final (Mawdsley, Cadden) [If Qualified]

• 20:15 – Men’s 1500m – Final (Cathal Doyle) [If Qualified]

• 20:43 – Women’s 60m Hurdles – Final (Sarah Lavin) [If Qualified]

🔹 Saturday, March 8th – Morning Session

• 09:20 – Women’s 3000m – Round One (Sarah Healy, Jodie McCann)

• 11:00 – Men’s 60m – Round One (Bori Akinola)

• 11:45 – Men’s 3000m – Round One (Andrew Coscoran, James Gormley)

• 12:17 – Para 60m Mixed Classification – Final (Orla Comerford)

🔹 Saturday, March 8th – Evening Session

• 18:10 – Men’s 60m – Semi-Final (Bori Akinola) [If Qualified]

• 19:13 – Men’s 800m – Semi-Final (English, McPhillips) [If Qualified]

• 20:40 – Men’s 60m – Final (Bori Akinola) [If Qualified]

• 20:50 – Women’s 400m – Final (Mawdsley, Cadden) [If Qualified]

🔹 Sunday, March 9th – Morning & Evening Sessions

• 08:00 – 18:50 – Kate O’Connor competes in the Women’s Pentathlon (All events)

• 15:50 – Men’s 3000m – Final (Andrew Coscoran, James Gormley) [If Qualified]

• 16:27 – Men’s 800m – Final (Mark English, Cian McPhillips) [If Qualified]

• 16:36 – Women’s 3000m – Final (Sarah Healy, Jodie McCann) [If Qualified]

• 17:50 – Women’s 4x400m Relay – Final

📢 Why This Championship Matters for Team Ireland

The European Athletics Indoor Championships 2025 serve as an important stepping stone towards the 2025 outdoor season, the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, and the longer-term build-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Stay tuned for live updates, results, and analysis as Ireland competes in Apeldoorn, Netherlands!

Predicted Starting Teams – Ireland v France – Six Nations

Ireland’s Grand Slam Hopes Rest on Huge Test Against France

With three wins from three, Ireland are two victories away from a second Grand Slam in three years, but their biggest challenge of the Six Nations awaits as France arrive at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Simon Easterby, standing in as head coach while Andy Farrell focuses on his British & Irish Lions duties, has kept Ireland on course, but the final two rounds will determine whether they are remembered as champions or left disappointed.

A win over France would set up a final-day clash with Italy, where victory would guarantee the Grand Slam. However, a loss could be devastating for Ireland’s Six Nations title hopes, as their points difference is not as strong as France, leaving them vulnerable if the race comes down to the final standings.

Crunch Selection Calls for Easterby

The injury to Tadhg Furlong means Finlay Bealham is expected to return at tighthead, while a decision on his backup remains between Roman Salanoa and Tom O’Toole.

The good news is that Hugo Keenan, Caelan Doris, and Bundee Aki are all fit to return, adding significant quality to the starting XV.

However, Ireland could be without Mack Hansen, with reports suggesting he is struggling with injury. If he is ruled out, Jamie Osborne is expected to start at 14, giving the young Leinster back his biggest test yet on the international stage.

Predicted Ireland XV vs France

Starting Team:

15. Hugo Keenan
14. Jamie Osborne OR Mack Hansen
13. Robbie Henshaw
12. Bundee Aki
11. James Lowe
10. Jack Crowley
9. Jamison Gibson-Park
1. Andrew Porter
2. Dan Sheehan
3. Finlay Bealham
4. Joe McCarthy
5. Tadhg Beirne
6. Peter O’Mahony (captain)
7. Josh van der Flier
8. Caelan Doris

Replacements:

16. Rob Herring OR Gus McCarthy
17. Cian Healy
18. Roman Salanoa OR Tom O’Toole
19. James Ryan
20. Ryan Baird
21. Jack Conan
22. Conor Murray
23. Sam Prendergast

A Six Nations Showdown With Huge Consequences

Ireland know a victory over France keeps everything in their hands, with a home tie against Italy in the final round enough to seal another Grand Slam.

However, if Ireland lose on Saturday, their title hopes could slip away. England are still in contention, and with Ireland’s weaker points difference, a defeat could see them fall behind in the standings, even if they beat Italy in Round 5.

With home advantage and a Six Nations title on the line, Saturday at the Aviva Stadium could be one of the defining moments of Ireland’s campaign.

A win would put them one step from history. A loss could leave them empty-handed. The pressure is on.

Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly)

🏉 Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly)

Last Updated: March 5, 2025

The 2025/26 season is on the horizon, and while player movement across Ireland’s four provinces has been minimal, a few key signings have been confirmed. Will we see more transfers in the coming weeks? Here’s a weekly updated list of confirmed signings for each province.

🔴 Munster – Leading the Transfer Market

Munster have been the most active province so far, confirming four signings:

Michael Milne (Prop, 25) – from Leinster (IRL)
Lee Barron (Hooker, 24) – from Leinster (IRL)
JJ Hanrahan (Fly-half, 32) – from Connacht (IRL)
Dan Kelly (Centre, 24) – from Leicester Tigers (ENG)

With two front-row additions, a playmaker, and a promising centre in Dan Kelly, Munster are strengthening across key areas.

⚫️ Ulster – A Single But Significant Addition

Ulster have made just one signing so far:

Juarno Augustus (Back row, 27) – from Northampton Saints (ENG)

The powerful South African No. 8 will bring much-needed physicality to Ulster’s back row.

🔵 Leinster – No Confirmed Signings Yet

Leinster have yet to announce any additions. Given their incredible academy pipeline, they may not feel the need to recruit externally. Will that change?

🟢 Connacht – Yet to Enter the Market

Like Leinster, Connacht have yet to confirm any signings. With JJ Hanrahan leaving for Munster, will they look for a replacement?

📢 Should We Be Concerned About the Lack of Transfers?

Compared to previous seasons, Irish rugby’s transfer activity has been unusually quiet. Munster and Ulster have made moves, but Leinster and Connacht remain inactive.

Are budgets tighter than before?
Is there confidence in homegrown talent?
Will we see late-window signings?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

🛑 Latest Irish Rugby Transfers (Updated Weekly)

Province	Player	Position	Age	From
Munster	Michael Milne	Prop	25	Leinster
Munster	Lee Barron	Hooker	24	Leinster
Munster	JJ Hanrahan	Fly-half	32	Connacht
Munster	Dan Kelly	Centre	24	Leicester
Ulster	Juarno Augustus	Back row	27	Northampton
Leinster	❌	❌	❌	❌
Connacht	❌	❌	❌	❌

This table will be updated weekly as new signings are announced.

📣 Have Your Say!

Are you surprised by the lack of movement so far? Which province needs to strengthen most? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 👇

Arnold Palmer Invitational 2024: Expert Betting Tips & Predictions

The Arnold Palmer Invitational 2024 at Bay Hill Club & Lodge is set to deliver another thrilling PGA Tour showdown. With Scottie Scheffler aiming for a third consecutive title and Rory McIlroy seeking redemption, smart bettors will be looking for value beyond the favorites.

🏌 Best Bets Based on Course History

✅ Scottie Scheffler (4/1) – Defending Champion & Top Favorite

Recent Finishes: 1st (2024), 4th (2023), 1st (2022), 15th (2020)

With two wins in the last three years, Scheffler dominates Bay Hill. His elite ball-striking and consistency make him a strong pick, but at 4/1, the value is limited.

✅ Rory McIlroy (9/1) – Each-Way Option

Recent Finishes: 21st (2024), 2nd (2023), 13th (2022), 10th (2021), 5th (2020)

McIlroy’s four top-10 finishes in the last five years make him an excellent each-way bet at 9/1.

✅ Max Homa (22/1) – Value Pick

Recent Finishes: 8th (2024), 14th (2023), 17th (2022), 10th (2021), 24th (2020)

Steady improvement at Bay Hill and strong recent form make Homa a great mid-range betting option.

📈 Trending Upwards – Potential Value Bets

🔹 Sungjae Im (30/1) – Safe Each-Way Play

Recent Finishes: 18th (2024), 21st (2023), 20th (2022), 21st (2021)

Four consecutive top-25 finishes prove his consistency at Bay Hill.

🔹 Russell Henley (50/1) – Long-Shot Sleeper

Recent Finishes: 4th (2024), 53rd (2023), 13th (2022)

After a 4th-place finish in 2024, Henley is a major long-shot contender at 50/1.

❌ Golfers to Avoid – Poor Course History

🚩 Matt Fitzpatrick (24.40 Avg. Finish) – Missed cut in 2024, overpriced at 20/1.
🚩 Chris Kirk (24.00 Avg. Finish) – Inconsistent finishes, not worth a bet.
🚩 Viktor Hovland (27.80 Avg. Finish) – Only one top-10 finish, lacks consistency.

🎯 Final Betting Picks for Arnold Palmer Invitational 2024

🏆 Best Outright Bets

✔ **Scottie Scheffler – 4/1** (Defending champ, elite form)
✔ **Rory McIlroy – 9/1 Each-Way** (Strong track record, solid bet)

🎯 Each-Way & Value Picks

✔ **Max Homa – 22/1** (Consistently improving at Bay Hill)
✔ **Sungjae Im – 30/1** (Four straight top-25 finishes)
✔ **Harris English – 40/1** (Runner-up in 2023, great long shot)

💰 Long-Shot Sleeper Bets

✔ **Russell Henley – 50/1** (Finished 4th in 2024, trending up)
✔ **Sam Burns – 45/1** (Elite putter on Bermuda greens, great upside)

🔎 Key Betting Trends for Arnold Palmer Invitational 2024

✅ 7 of the last 8 winners ranked inside the top 10 for greens in regulation.
✅ Elite ball-strikers dominate at Bay Hill.
✅ Players with strong Florida form perform well.

With Scheffler and McIlroy leading the market, Homa, Im, and Henley offer solid value. For **big returns, sleeper picks like Henley and Burns could surprise**.

For the latest PGA Tour betting insights, predictions, and expert picks, stay tuned for more analysis!

Top Referee Angus Gardner to Officiate Crucial Ireland vs. France Clash

Angus Gardner has been confirmed as the referee for Saturday’s pivotal Six Nations showdown between Ireland and France, a game that could decide the championship.

The Australian official will be joined by England’s Matthew Carley and Christophe Ridley as assistant referees, with Ian Tempest overseeing TMO duties. Andrew Jackson has been appointed as the FPRO (Fourth Performance Review Official).

With the winner likely to go on and claim the Six Nations title, the stakes couldn’t be higher. If Ireland emerge victorious, they will be strong favourites to complete a Grand Slam, with only Italy standing in their way.

McConville Calls for Consistency as Rule Changes Face Scrutiny

Wicklow boss Oisín McConville believes the initial goodwill towards football’s new rules is fading fast, with inconsistencies now coming under the spotlight as the league heats up.

Brought in at the start of the year, the rule changes have been met with mixed reactions from inter-county managers. Football Rules Committee (FRC) chairman Jim Gavin confirmed this morning that further refinements are on the table, with discussions set for the GAA’s Central Council meeting on March 13th.

McConville, speaking on BBC Sport NI’s The GAA Social podcast, highlighted a major disparity in their application across the Allianz League. He pointed out that while some divisions use the hooter to signal full-time, others do not.

“It’s not a level playing field,” the former Armagh star remarked. “If we can’t get it right across four inter-county divisions, what hope do we have of rolling it out properly at grassroots? No chance.”

With every point now crucial in the race for promotion and survival, McConville feels the reality of the new rules is setting in.

“The honeymoon period is over,” he admitted. “We always knew these games would take on greater importance as the season progressed. Now that they do, everything is under the microscope. The smallest decisions can have a massive impact on a team’s entire season.”

As the GAA prepares to assess potential changes, the focus will be on whether they can ensure greater uniformity across all levels of the game.

Mack Hansen Commits Future to Ireland and Connacht with New Contract

The IRFU has confirmed that Mack Hansen has signed a new two-year deal, keeping him with Connacht and Ireland until at least the end of the 2026/27 season.

Connacht Rugby and @IrishRugby are delighted to confirm Mack Hansen has signed a two-year contract extension ✍️⁰ #OneConnacht pic.twitter.com/LvmQ6aYgUI

— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) March 3, 2025

Since making his Test debut against Wales in February 2022, Hansen has been a standout performer in Ireland’s back three. The 25-year-old has earned 27 caps and crossed the whitewash 12 times, cementing his status as one of the most exciting attacking threats in the game.

Hansen’s meteoric rise saw him nominated for the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year in his first international season. His decision to remain in Ireland is another boost for Andy Farrell’s squad as they build towards Rugby World Cup 2027.

Having joined Connacht in 2021, Hansen has made 38 appearances for the province, quickly becoming a fan favourite in Galway and beyond.

Speaking about his contract extension, Hansen said:

“Since moving to Ireland, I’ve loved every minute, and I’m delighted to sign this new contract. Playing for Connacht and Ireland means a huge amount to me, and I feel like I’ve developed massively thanks to the coaching and structures here. There’s a lot to play for this season, and my focus is on finishing strongly with both club and country. I’d like to thank the IRFU for their faith in me, and I’m really excited for the future.”

IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys also welcomed the news:

“Mack has been a key player for Ireland and Connacht in recent years, and securing his future is a huge boost for Irish rugby. He’s a proven performer who thrives on the big stage and is a firm favourite with fans. We believe there’s still more to come from him, and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to progress.”