Last week, McGeeney stated that the FRC had issued a ‘guideline’ rather than a strict rule on the 20-second kick-out limit. However, that ambiguity came under scrutiny during Armagh’s weekend win over Dublin, as both goalkeepers were penalised for delays.
“I do think some of the stuff is a joke,” McGeeney said. “Like 20 seconds ‘maybe’ – can somebody tell me how that is a rule? There wasn’t one of those kick-outs that he blew tonight that was over 15 seconds.”
McGeeney also criticised a ruling on passing within the goalkeeper’s square.
“I just think that people are getting carried away with themselves, and now we’re being told that when you pass the ball back into the square that it is a ‘pass’, as in one pass.
“The next thing is, you will only be allowed to do it on a Sunday when the sun is shining from the east.
“What is it that they want us to do, just not let goalkeepers touch the ball?”
Video - Pádraic Joyce Backs Review Process but Urges Consistency
Pádraic Joyce Backs Review Process but Urges Consistency
Pádraic Joyce has urged the Football Review Committee (FRC) to make its final decisions on rule changes and stick to them, as the group prepares to meet this evening to finalise any amendments ahead of the upcoming championship.
🗣️Weekend Wrap up🎙️ Galway Senior football manager, Pádraic Joyce, spoke to the media and Galway GAA TV after this afternoon’s draw with Tyrone in Round 5 of the Allianz Football League in Tuam Stadium pic.twitter.com/J7ZkdLgHxi
“That has to be it. We can’t be changing them [after that],” the Galway boss insisted after his side salvaged a dramatic home draw against Tyrone, maintaining their position at the top of Division 1.
Joyce pointed to recent tweaks—such as penalising goalkeepers for delaying kick-outs beyond 20 seconds—being poorly communicated.
“They changed the goalkeeping one and we got an email the week after it was changed, which is ridiculous. So look, again, a small breakdown in communication there,” he remarked.
Despite these frustrations, Joyce praised the FRC’s overall efforts, noting that the rule changes have brought more excitement and fluidity to the game.
“Whatever they decide to do, we’ll coach it . . . but it needs to be whatever is decided. They have two weeks now to look at it and get the information out,” he added.
“But all in all, you have to praise the FRC because people were probably doubting at the start, will this work, will it not work? But it seems to have worked a good bit and there’s a bit more excitement in the game, a bit more jeopardy – and a bit more football being played as well, which is no harm.”
Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley has strongly dismissed claims made by former Ireland international Ian Harte, who accused League of Ireland clubs of hindering young players’ careers by pricing them out of moves abroad.
Harte, who runs a player agency, suggested that some LOI clubs were demanding excessive fees for young prospects, limiting their chances of securing moves to top European leagues. However, Bradley has come out swinging, insisting that the League of Ireland is not only developing talent but also ensuring clubs get fair value for their assets.
“It’s a crazy statement. I don’t know where it’s coming from,” Bradley said. “If anything, we need more funding to help clubs develop young players properly. We’ve seen so many players move on successfully – that doesn’t happen if clubs are pricing them out of moves.”
Bradley pointed to Justin Ferizaj’s recent move to Italy as an example of the LOI system working well, allowing young players to progress while clubs are still compensated fairly. He also stressed that Irish clubs operate with limited financial backing compared to their European counterparts and that selling players is often crucial to their sustainability.
This debate highlights a growing tension between agents looking to move players quickly and domestic clubs aiming to secure fair returns for the talent they develop. With increasing interest in LOI players from clubs in England and beyond, this argument is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
Connacht Schools Senior A Cup Semi-Final Preview: Can Anyone Stop Sligo Grammar’s Dominance?
The Bank of Ireland Connacht Schools Senior A Cup has reached its semi-final stage, with four schools battling for a place in the final. Defending champions Sligo Grammar School are chasing a historic fourth consecutive title, while traditional powerhouses Garbally College and Marist College look to reclaim their dominance. Meanwhile, Colaiste Einde aims to upset the odds and continue their impressive run.
Marist College vs Colaiste Einde – 12:30pm, Marist College
Marist College has been a strong force in this year’s competition, topping Pool A with an unbeaten record. Their experience in high-pressure matches was evident in their 29-14 win over St Joseph’s College, and they carried that form into their 33-19 victory over Summerhill. Historically, Marist has won three Connacht Senior A titles, but they have been runners-up in both 2023 and 2024, losing to Sligo Grammar each time. They’ll be desperate to make it back to the final and change their fortunes.
Colaiste Einde, however, cannot be underestimated. They came through a hard-fought quarter-final against Colaiste Iognaid, winning 32-17, with standout performances from Sean Walsh and Michael Mullery, who both scored twice. With momentum on their side, they will fancy their chances of causing an upset. However, they are up against a Marist side determined to end their recent heartbreak.
Garbally College vs Sligo Grammar, 1pm Garbally College
This is a heavyweight clash between two of Connacht’s most successful rugby schools. Garbally College holds the record for the most Connacht Senior A titles, with an incredible 47 championships. The Ballinasloe school has been a dominant force in the competition for decades but hasn’t lifted the trophy since 2019. They finished top of Pool B this year and showed their quality with a 48-21 win over CBS Roscommon. However, they face their toughest test yet.
Sligo Grammar School is the team to beat. They have been the dominant side in Connacht schools rugby in recent years, winning three consecutive titles in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Their most recent triumph saw them defeat Marist College 29-18 in the 2024 final, proving their ability to handle the big occasion. This year, they once again topped Pool C with a perfect record and demonstrated their defensive strength in a 17-0 win over Colaiste Iognaid.
Prediction
This year’s semi-finals promise intense battles. Marist College has the experience and talent to overcome Colaiste Einde, but they will need to be at their best to avoid an upset. Meanwhile, Garbally College vs Sligo Grammar is the standout tie, with the defending champions looking to continue their dominance. Garbally will push them all the way, but Sligo’s recent track record makes them slight favourites.
With Sligo Grammar chasing a fourth straight title, the pressure is on—can anyone stop them?
Connacht Must Deliver as Coaching Changes Loom and Benetton Travel Depleted
For Connacht, this weekend’s URC fixture against Benetton in Galway feels less like another round of the league and more like a defining moment in their season — a crossroads between a campaign fizzling out or finding a late surge of momentum.
The harsh reality is that Connacht’s hopes of a top-eight finish are fading fast. Their 24-19 victory over Cardiff last time out mercifully snapped a four-game losing streak, but consistency — so often their Achilles’ heel — continues to haunt them. A 3-3 home record at Dexcom Stadium is hardly the form of playoff contenders, and if Pete Wilkins’ men have any intentions of keeping their faint URC hopes alive, this weekend simply has to end in victory.
The backdrop to this game is layered in intrigue with Rod Seib suggested to be coming as attack coach to work alongside Pete Wilkins. He will needed to get some talent into the club with Santi Cordero, Piers O’Conor, Josh Ioane all likely to be gone next season and JJ Hanrahan already confirmed as going to Munster.
There’s also the Challenge Cup to consider. Connacht have secured a home run in Europe, offering not just another route to silverware but also a golden chance to raise much-needed funds for next season — a crucial element for a club always walking the financial tightrope. In that sense, keeping fans engaged and filling the new Dexcom next season becomes as important off the pitch as the results on it.
Injuries and Selection Headaches
Connacht head into this clash without key Ireland internationals Finlay Bealham, Bundee Aki, and Mack Hansen, as well as Byron Ralston, Sean Jansen, and Ben Murphy. Despite these absences, Cian Prendergast is available and captains the side from the back row.
The backline has seen significant changes, with Hugh Gavin (3rd cap) and Finn Treacy (1st cap) stepping into the starting XV. Josh Ioane starts at fly-half, forming a half-back pairing with the experienced Caolin Blade (204 caps), who will be crucial in controlling the game.
In the pack, Peter Dooley, Dave Heffernan, and Jack Aungier form the front row, with Darragh Murray and David O’Connor in the second row. Prendergast is joined in the back row by Shamus Hurley-Langton and Paul Boyle, giving Connacht plenty of physicality and work rate at the breakdown.
On the bench, Denis Buckley (258 caps) and Dylan Tierney-Martin provide front-row cover, while JJ Hanrahan and David Hawkshaw offer depth in the backs.
Key Factors for Connacht:
•Blade and Ioane will control the tempo – Connacht’s success hinges on their game management.
•The back three are untested at this level – Shayne Bolton and Finn Treacy will need to handle Benetton’s kicking game.
•Breakdown dominance – With Prendergast, Boyle, and Hurley-Langton, Connacht have the edge over a disrupted Benetton back row.
Despite missing some of their biggest names, this is a game Connacht are expected to win—and anything less than a dominant performance will be a disappointment.
Benetton Team News: Weakened but Still Dangerous
Benetton arrive in Galway severely depleted, with 14 players away on Italy duty, including key names like Niccolò and Lorenzo Cannone, Juan Ignacio Brex, Tommaso Menoncello, Paolo Garbisi, and Simone Ferrari. This level of turnover forces Marco Bortolami to dig deep into his squad, with several changes across the pack and backline.
Despite these absences, Benetton are far from pushovers. Malakai Fekitoa anchors the midfield, while Rhyno Smith and Ignacio Mendy provide attacking threats in the back three. Tomas Albornoz remains a steady presence at fly-half, though the absence of Garbisi at scrum-half means the half-back pairing will be less familiar.
Up front, Bautista Bernasconi replaces Siua Maile at hooker, while Federico Ruzza steps in for Niccolò Cannone in the second row. Jadin Kingi and Toa Halafihi slot into the back row, replacing Manuel Zuliani and Lorenzo Cannone, respectively.
Benetton’s most significant challenge will be squad cohesion. With so many changes, their defensive structure and set-piece play may suffer, but if Albornoz, Smith, and Fekitoa can link up well, they still have the firepower to test Connacht.
The Italian side were thrashed 43-0 away to Ospreys last time they travelled, and while they will be eager to avoid a repeat, the absence of their internationals means they will start as clear underdogs in Galway.
Head coach Pete Wilkins says:
“This is the second of two games which we knew would put us back into playoff contention if we win them. We got what we needed from Cardiff, so if we can further elevate our performance and pick up another win, we’re right in the mix. Benetton are a tough, physical side who have had the better of us the last few years, so we if can front up from the start and get the crowd behind us, we’ll give ourselves every chance.”
CONNACHT RUGBY MATCHDAY SQUAD VS BENETTON 19:35, Saturday 1st March 2025 @ Dexcom Stadium
16. Dylan Tierney-Martin (49)
17. Denis Buckley (258)
18. Sam Illo (28)
19. Josh Murphy (30)
20. Oisín Dowling (70)
21. Matthew Devine (11)
22. JJ Hanrahan (22)
23. David Hawkshaw (40)
Yet, even with those absences, Connacht can have few excuses here. Benetton arrive in Galway severely depleted, missing 14 players who are away with the Italian national squad. To add to the sense of transition, the club announced earlier this week that head coach Marco Bortolami will depart at the end of the season. It’s a team in flux — and Connacht must capitalise.
Bookies Back Connacht to Dominate
Though Benetton have been solid in recent URC fixtures, losing just once in their last four games, that sole defeat was a bruising 43-0 hammering away to Ospreys — a result that has shaped expectations for this weekend. Bookmakers have installed Connacht as overwhelming 1/9 favourites with a -13 handicap. In truth, given Benetton’s injury crisis and recent form, Connacht should be aiming for a far more emphatic win — a 25+ point victory wouldn’t just be expected, it’s demanded.
The historical context adds further weight. Benetton haven’t beaten an Irish province on the road since 2018, when they edged out Leinster at the RDS Arena. Their last, and only, win in Galway came back in December 2011 — a nail-biting 15-13 result. Since then, Connacht have made the Sportsground a difficult place for Italian teams to visit.
The Bottom Line
This is a test of professionalism and ruthlessness. Connacht have the odds in their favour, home support behind them, and face an understrength opponent in a state of transition. Anything less than a convincing, dominant win — the kind that reasserts belief in the squad and pleases a fanbase craving momentum — will be a disappointment.
With the Challenge Cup still offering a potential route to silverware and financial gain, and the URC playoff race all but slipping away, Connacht need to deliver a statement performance. In many ways, they simply cannot afford not to.
Key Stats:
Connacht: 3 wins, 3 losses at Dexcom Stadium this season.
Connacht: Only one loss in their last 6 games vs Italian opposition.
Benetton: 1 loss in their last 4 URC fixtures.
Benetton: Last win in Ireland was in April 2018 (vs Leinster).
Head-to-head: 2 wins each in their last 4 meetings.
Champions Shelbourne will welcome arch-rivals Shamrock Rovers to Tolka Park on Friday night in what promises to be a highly anticipated Dublin derby. Damien Duff’s side have started their title defence in perfect fashion, registering wins over Derry City (3-1) and Waterford (1-0). Another victory here would send out a strong statement of intent.
A sell-out crowd of 5,100 is expected at the famous Drumcondra venue, and the home side has received a major boost with a fully fit squad available for selection.
For Shamrock Rovers, this fixture provides a chance to make a statement after being edged out by Shels for the title on the final day of last season. Stephen Bradley’s side endured a disappointing opening-day defeat to Bohemians but had last weekend off due to a postponement, giving them extra time to prepare.
The 𝗥𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗱 Derby in the 1920s, the 𝗧𝗼𝗹𝗸𝗮 Derby in the 1990s.
Shels’ strong start has been built on a solid defensive foundation and an ability to take chances when they come. New signings Mipo Odubeko, Ellis Chapman, Daniel Kelly, and Ryan O’Kane have settled in well, adding quality to Duff’s squad.
Duff knows that derby wins will be vital if Shelbourne are to retain their crown.
“Derbies were a topic we referenced in a team meeting this morning,” he said. “They’re not about bragging rights, they’re about putting points on the board. If you want to win the league, you have to win Dublin derbies.
“You also need a strong points return from Friday-to-Monday games. More often than not, if you manage that, you’ll be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.”
With back-to-back games in quick succession, Duff has highlighted the importance of squad depth, praising his medical and coaching staff for keeping players fit.
Shamrock Rovers Team News & Preview
Rovers’ title defence crumbled in the early months of last season, and Bradley is determined to ensure they hit their levels consistently this time around.
“We just need to be better than what we were last season,” Bradley said. “We don’t look at any individual team, we never have or never will. It’s more about what we know—if we do what we do to our best, we’ll give ourselves a better chance of being successful.
“Last season we didn’t do that domestically. The second half of the season was good, but that’s not enough at this club. It’s not enough to do it for four or five months, and we know that wasn’t acceptable.”
Bradley is boosted by the return of Jack Byrne, Trevor Clarke, and Adam Matthews, though Darragh Nugent and Danny Mandroiu remain out.
Despite Shels’ improvements, the Rovers boss isn’t expecting any major tactical surprises from the hosts.
“They’ve added some good players, but they pretty much do similar things,” he noted. “They’re good at what they do, but it’s similar to what they’ve done last season and the one before.”
Key Battle: Shelbourne’s Defence vs Rovers’ Attack
Shels had the best record in Dublin derbies last season, and their defensive structure frustrated Rovers at times. Rovers, meanwhile, will look to Johnny Kenny, Graham Burke, and Aaron Greene to provide the firepower needed to break through.
Match Prediction
Shelbourne have momentum and home advantage, but Rovers’ extra preparation time could prove crucial. Expect a tight and physical contest under the Tolka Park lights.
Venue: Sullivan & Lambe Park
Date: Friday, 28th February 2025
Kick-off: 7:45 PM
Referee: Eoghan O’Shea
Drogheda United and Galway United meet at Sullivan & Lambe Park for an early-season Premier Division clash, with both sides aiming to extend their unbeaten runs.
DROGHEDA UNITED
Kevin Doherty’s men have made a solid start, securing a 0-0 draw away to St Patrick’s Athletic before comfortably beating Sligo Rovers 3-0 at home. That victory extended their unbeaten league run to four games, a streak that stretches back to last season.
However, Galway caused problems for Drogheda in 2024, winning twice and drawing twice across four meetings. Defender James Bolger remains optimistic about their current form.
“Defensively, we’ve been solid, and we know how lethal our attack can be. Four points is a brilliant start, but we need to build on it now. It’s great to be part of a backline where you can trust the lads beside you, with strong midfield cover and a solid keeper behind us.”
Bolger also acknowledged the challenge ahead:
“Galway are notoriously physical and tricky to play against. Chances will be hard to come by, but we’re confident of getting another three points.”
Team News – Drogheda United
• Injured: Elicha Ahui, Douglas James-Taylor.
• Doubtful: Paul Doyle, Joshua Thomas.
• Suspended: None.
GALWAY UNITED
The Tribesmen arrive in Louth after an impressive 1-0 win over St Patrick’s Athletic. That result followed an entertaining 2-2 draw away to Cork City on the opening day. Like Drogheda, they have collected four points from their first two games.
Assistant manager Ollie Horgan praised Drogheda’s transformation over the past year:
“I’ve seen teams improve, but they turned a side that looked relegation-bound into a Cup-winning team last year. Their recent results show they have high expectations again.”
He also called for patience as Galway continues to develop:
“People need to be realistic about where we came from and where we’re trying to go. We’ve only taken a small step forward.”
Team News – Galway United
• Injured: None reported.
• Doubtful: None reported.
• Suspended: None.
PREDICTION:
Drogheda United 2-1 Galway United
Both teams have started well, but Drogheda’s defensive structure and home advantage could prove decisive. Galway will battle hard, yet the Boynesiders look primed for a narrow win.
Dublin Face All-Ireland Champions Armagh in Key Allianz League Clash
📍 Match Details:
🗓️ Date: Saturday, March 2, 2024
⏰ Time: 7:35 PM
🏟️ Venue: BOX-IT Athletic Grounds, Armagh
📺 TV: Live on RTÉ
Dublin Look to Extend Strong Start to League Campaign
Dublin head to Armagh this weekend aiming for their third win of the Allianz Football League. Dessie Farrell’s men have impressed so far, bouncing back from a Round 2 loss to Donegal with wins over Kerry and Derry.
🔹 Key Performers for Dublin
• Seán Bugler led the scoring in last weekend’s victory over Derry, notching six points.
• Niall Scully struck the net in the 22nd minute, setting Dublin on course for a dominant win.
• Conor Tyrell & Lorcan O’Dell both found the net early in the second half to put the game beyond doubt.
• Con O’Callaghan chipped in with four points, while his brother Niall O’Callaghan put in a solid performance.
With new faces blending well with seasoned stars, Farrell will be eager for another strong showing against the defending All-Ireland champions.
Armagh Seeking Consistency After Mixed League Results
Reigning All-Ireland champions Armagh have had a frustrating league campaign so far. Kieran McGeeney’s side secured a commanding eight-point win over Tyrone but have struggled for consistency, with defeats to Galway and Donegal followed by a draw against Mayo last weekend.
🔸 Key Armagh Players to Watch
• Paddy Burns hit the net in the 15th minute against Mayo, giving Armagh a five-point lead at the time.
• Conor Turbitt, Rory Grugan & Ethan Rafferty have provided crucial scores throughout the league.
• Stefan Campbell was vital in halting Mayo’s comeback last weekend.
Armagh will be determined to use home advantage to kickstart their campaign and challenge Dublin for the points.
🔢 Dublin v Armagh – Recent Allianz League Meetings
Rian O’Neill Poised for Armagh Return Ahead of Crucial League Run-In
Rian O’Neill is set to rejoin the Armagh panel as the All-Ireland champions prepare for a critical stage of their season. The Crossmaglen star, who stepped away from the squad before the league campaign began, has now committed to making a return.
O’Neill Ready to Bolster Armagh’s Title Defence
Manager Kieran McGeeney had previously stated that O’Neill was “taking some time for himself,” but it now appears the influential forward is ready to reintegrate into the squad. His return comes at a vital juncture, with Armagh struggling in the Allianz Football League.
The Orchard County have managed just one win from their opening four matches, leaving them under pressure heading into a make-or-break clash with Dublin at the BOX-IT Athletic Grounds this weekend. However, the upcoming fixture may come too soon for O’Neill’s involvement.
Targeting a Championship Impact
While his return will be a major boost for Armagh, McGeeney and his management team will be more focused on having O’Neill fully fit for the Ulster Championship. The defending All-Ireland champions begin their provincial campaign against Antrim in April, and O’Neill’s presence could be crucial as they aim for back-to-back titles.
He could also feature in the latter stages of the league, particularly in their early March fixture against Kerry. With Armagh looking to recover from their sluggish start, O’Neill’s return offers renewed hope for another strong championship push.
For the latest updates on Armagh GAA and all the breaking sports news, stay tuned to SportsNewsIRELAND.
Garry Ringrose Banned for Three Matches – Breakdown of decision
Ireland’s Six Nations campaign has taken a significant hit with Garry Ringrose receiving a three-match suspension following a dangerous tackle during Ireland’s victory over Wales on 22nd February 2025. The Leinster centre was cited under Law 9.13 for a high tackle that involved head and neck contact, which automatically triggered a minimum mid-range entry point.
Breakdown of the Decision
The disciplinary panel determined that Ringrose’s challenge was:
✅ Head contact
✅ Reckless
While the incident did not involve intentional foul play, injury to the opposing player, or a vulnerable player designation, the mid-range entry point of six matches was applied due to the nature of the offence.
Mitigation Applied
Ringrose received a 50% reduction, reducing his ban from six to three matches based on:
✅ Guilty plea
✅ Good disciplinary record
✅ Apology and remorse
✅ Good conduct during the hearing
No Aggravation Factors
The panel found no reason to extend the ban further, with no repeat offending history, no need for deterrence, and no other aggravating circumstances.
Matches Missed
Ringrose will be unavailable for the following fixtures:
• Leinster vs Cardiff (1st March 2025 – United Rugby Championship)
• Ireland vs France (8th March 2025 – Six Nations)
• Italy vs Ireland (15th March 2025 – Six Nations)
However, the final match of the suspension could be substituted if Ringrose successfully completes World Rugby’s Head Contact Process Coaching Intervention Programme. This would allow him to return for Ireland’s final Six Nations fixture against Scotland.
Impact on Ireland’s Six Nations Hopes
Ringrose’s absence is a blow to Andy Farrell’s squad as they prepare for a crucial clash against France in Dublin. The experienced centre has been a key figure in Ireland’s backline, and his absence could see Stuart McCloskey or Robbie Henshaw stepping in to partner Bundee Aki in midfield.
With Ireland aiming for back-to-back Grand Slams, this suspension comes at a critical juncture. Fans will now be hoping for a swift return for Ringrose, with the option of completing the coaching intervention programme potentially softening the impact of the ban.
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