FAI will not renew Eileen Gleeson’s contract

The FAI will not offer a new contract to Eileen Gleeson to continue as Head Coach of the Ireland Women’s National Team.

The decision comes following a meeting of the Football Association of Ireland Board and following a review.

Gleeson was initially appointed on an interim basis in August 2023, and led the team to promotion to League A in the UEFA Nations League before being confirmed as Head Coach on a full-time basis in December 2023.

Win over France a highlight

For the 2025 UEFA European Championships qualification campaign, a brilliant 3-1 win over France in Páirc Uí Chaoimh saw the side record their best ever result. The Women’s National Team went on to reach Round 2 of the Qualifying Play-Offs, where they narrowly lost to Cymru over two legs.

‘A terrific ambassador for women and girls’ football’

FAI CEO David Courell said: “On behalf of the Football Association of Ireland, we acknowledge the dedication and passion that Eileen has showed in leading the Ireland Women’s National Team over the last 16 months. Eileen has long been a terrific ambassador for women and girls’ football in Ireland and she leaves behind a positive impact on our Women’s National Team that included an excellent UEFA Nations League campaign, a memorable win over France in Cork and a run to the Play-Offs for EURO 2025. We thank Eileen for everything that she has done.”

The FAI has stated that the process to recruit a new Head Coach will begin immediately.

Six-time Grade 1 winner Energumene returns at Cork

Energumene is the main draw at Cork Racecourse, Mallow, on Sunday, as the six-time Grade 1 winner returns to action.

The Willie Mullins-trained inmate will contest the day’s featured €100,000 Bar One Racing Hilly Way Chase.

This will be Energumene’s first race for 593-days, not having been seen since his win in the Grade 1 William Hill Champion Chase at the Punchestown Festival in 2023.

The French-bred son of Denham Road bids to claim a third victory in the Grade 2 Bar One Racing Hilly Way Chase, following previous triumphs in the race in 2021 and 2022.

This year’s renewal of the race will boast the largest field since 2018, with eight runners set to participate, with six of them coming from Mullins’ powerful Closutton stable.

Mullins hoping to extend record

Energumene will be reunited with Cork jockey Paul Townend as he aims to extend Mullins’ incredible record in the race, having trained the winner of the Hilly Way Chase every year since 2007, with the exception of 2012 and 2018.

Among the other Mullins representatives will be Hunters Yarn and four other Grade 1 winners Dinoblue, Ferny Hollow, Appreciate It, and Blue Lord.

Patrick Mullins, Ireland’s champion amateur jockey, will ride Ferny Hollow; Mark Walsh will be aboard Dinoblue; Danny Mullins will partner Appreciate It, and Brian Hayes will take the mount on Hunters Yarn.

Despite his historic dominance in the race, and the strength of his participants for this season’s contest, Team Mullins will face a strong challenge from both the Joseph O’Brien and John Queally yards.

O’Brien’s Carriganóg team will be represented by Grade 1 William Hill Champion Chase winner at last season’s Punchestown Festival, Banbridge.

Queally will have the recent Cork winner The Banger Doyle in the field.

Con O’Keeffe aims for another Mares’ Novice Chase win

The Grade 2 Coolmore NH Sires Order Of St George Irish EBF Mares Novice Chase at Cork Racecourse on Sunday has attracted a field of eight runners.

Last season’s successful handler with Silent Approach at 33/1, Con O’Keeffe, will be represented this time around by Kilbarry Saint.

Zenta, third in the race last year, will again contest the Grade 2 event, and will be joined by sable companion Karia Des Blaises.

The 2023 winning rider Danny Mullins will partner A Law Of Her Own from the Peter Fahey yard, while Henry de Bromhead will be represented by Nara.

This race has been won by mares of the calibre of Shattered Love (2017) and Vroom Vroom Mag (2014) in the past.

Six runners contest Grade 3 Stayers Novice Hurdle

The Grade 3 Singletons Supervalu Stayers Novice Hurdle, which has been won by eight different trainers in the past eight years, will have six runners on Sunday.

Ther Gordon Elliott-trained Minella Sixo may be the headline act, but Willie Mullins will be double-handed with Luckinthecity and Just For Love.

Cork-based trainers make up the remainder of the field: Jonathan Sweeney’s Churchroad Prince; recent 40/1 winner Therellbguddaysyet from Michael O’Connor’s stable, and Kilworth’s Desmond Kenneally has Pray Tell in the line-up.

The opening race of the seven-race card gets underway at Cork Racecourse, Mallow, at 12.03pm with the Bar One Racing 3YO Maiden Hurdle.

Racing will conclude at 3.25pm with the 24-runner Greenvalley Transport Novice Handicap Hurdle.

Munster 33 Stade Francais 7 in Champions Cup

Munster v Stade — Munster Rugby beat Stade Francais Paris 33-7 in their Champions Cup game at Thomond Park. Credit: @Munsterrugby.

Munster Rugby opened their Investec Champions Cup campaign with a 33-7 victory over Stade Francais Paris at Thomond Park on Saturday evening.

In a game where the home side claimed a five-try bonus point victory, the most talked about incidents in this game will be four minutes of Stade Francais madness in the second half.

The visitors’ ill discipline saw two of their players, Pierre-Henri Azagoh and Baptiste Pesenti, red carded four foul play. Azagoh’s high and dangerous tackle on Peter O’Mahony meant the second row had to take an early shower.

Incredibly, his second row companion Pesenti followed him to the dressing room four minutes later. The big lock picked Munster’s Craig Casey up before dropping him dangerously on the ground.

First Half

Munster and Stade Francais entered this evening’s game with similar recent records in their domestic championships, with just two wins each in their last five games.

Munster won their second URC game of the season with a 17-10 victory over Lions last weekend, while Stade Francais lost 13-21 to Bayonne in their Top14 game last weekend.

In an opening half where Munster dominated on the scoreboard, the men in red ended the first half with a 14-0 lead over the Parisian side.

Abrahams opens scoring

Thaakir Abrahams put the home side on the scoreboard when crossing for a try on 15 minutes. A successful Jack Crowley kick for the posts, the first of two during the game’s opening 40 minutes, gave Inter Head Coach Ian Costello’s team a 7-0 advantage.

Alex Nankivell was sin-binned on 26 minutes for leading with his elbow. Ironically, it was during this 10 minute period, with Munster down to 14 men, that the side doubled their scoring.

Daly scores on 100th appearance

A beautiful piece of individual brilliance from Shane Daly on his 100th appearance for the province saw him kick the ball forward and chase it down to claim the 25th seven-pointer of his Munster career. The second successful kick of the night from Jack Crowley moved the home side into a 14-0 at half-time.

Half-time: Munster Rugby 14 Stade Francais Paris 0

Pierre-Henri Azagoh was red carded for foul play on Munster’s Peter O’Mahony on 49 minutes. The hosts immediately made their visitors pay for the infringement as Alex Klendellen crashed over for his side’s third try of the game. Jack Crowley maintained his excellent kicking record by adding another conversion.

Shortly afterwards, Baptiste Pesenti picked Craig Casey up and dumped him into the ground. Referee Luke Pearce had no hesitation in producing another red card, the second in four minutes, and reduced Stade Francais to 13 men.

Try for Farrell

Centre Tom Farrell soon added Munster’s fourth try of the evening, and with Crowley kicking successfully again, in difficult windy conditions, Munster were 28-0 with 55 minutes played.

Stade Francais finally got on the scoreboard after 59 minutes when front row Clement Castets touched down. An excellent conversion effort from Zack Henry was successful, leaving Munster with a 28-7 advantage.

Gavin Coombes completing the Munster scoring by claiming his 47th try for the province, as Jack Crowley missed his only kick of the night.

Munster ran out 33-7 winners over 13-man Stade Francais to claim an opening night Investec Champions Cup win.

Munster will travel to Castres Olympique next for their Friday evening Investec Champions Cup second round tie, while Stade Francais will host Saracens tomorrow week.

Full-time: Munster Rugby 33 Stade Francais Paris 7

Munster:

15 Shane Daly, 14 Calvin Nash, 13 Tom Farrell, 12 Alex Nankivell, 11 Thaakir Abrahams, 10 Jack Crowley, 9 Craig Casey.

1 Dian Bleuler, 2 Diarmuid Barron (captain), 3 John Ryan, 4 Evan O’Connell, 5 Fineen Wycherley, 6 Peter O’Mahony, 7 Alex Kendellen, 8 Gavin Coombes.

Munster Replacements:

16 Niall Scannell, 17 Kieran Ryan, 18 Stephen Archer, 19 Tadhg Beirne, 20 John Hodnett, 21 Paddy Patterson, 22 Billy Burns, 23 Jack O’Donoghue.

Stade Francais:

15 Joe Jonas, 14 Charles Laloi, 13 Joe Marchant, 12 Pierre Boudehent, 11 Samuel Ezeala, 10 Zack Henry, 9 Thibaut Motassi.

1 Clement Castets, 2 Lucas Peyresblanques, 3 Francisco Gomez Kodela, 4 Pierre-Henri Azagoh, 5 Baptiste Pesenti, 6 Pierre Huguet, 7 Ryan Chapuis (captain), 8 Yoan Tanga.

Stade Francais Replacements:

16 Luka Petriashvili, 17 Moses Alo-Emile, 18 Paul Alo-Emile, 19 Setareki Turagacoke, 20 Andy Timo, 21 Juan Martin Scelzo, 22 Louis Foursans-Bourdette, 23 Louis Carbonel.

Referee: Luke Pearce (RFU)

Munster v Stade Francais in Champions Cup, Saturday 5.30pm

The Munster team has been named for tomorrow evening’s Investec Champions Cup Pool 3 game against Stade Francais at Thomond Park (5.30pm).

The game will be live on RTÉ 2 and Premier Sports 1.

Barron to captain Munster

Shane Daly starts at full-back on his 100th appearance for Munster with Diarmuid Barron captaining the side in the Champions Cup for the first time.

Academy lock Evan O’Connell keeps his place on the team to start on his first Champions Cup game, while Munster Rugby Academy prop Kieran Ryan is expected to make his first European appearance off the bench.

Daly is one of five changes to the starting Munster team that defeated Emirates Lions 17-10 last week.

Returning internationals

Returning Ireland internationals Calvin Nash, Jack Crowley, Craig Casey and Peter O’Mahony all start, with Tadhg Beirne named among the replacements.

Short-term signing Dian Bleuler, Tom Farrell and Thaakir Abrahams start on their first Champions Cup appearances for Munster.

Daly, Nash and Abrahams comprise the back three as Alex Nankivell, who has signed a new two-year contract, and Tom Farrell, continue their centre partnership.

Casey and Crowley are the half-backs.

Bleuler, Barron and John Ryan are in the front row with O’Connell and Fineen Wycherley completing an unchanged front five.

O’Mahony, Alex Kendellen and Gavin Coombes start together in the back row.

Replacements Bench

Niall Scannell, Kieran Ryan and Stephen Archer provide the front row back-up. Tadhg Beirne, John Hodnett and Jack O’Donoghue complete the forward cover.

Paddy Patterson and Billy Burns are the backline replacements with Burns set for his first appearance in the Champions Cup for the men in red.

Munster Team

15 Shane Daly, 14 Calvin Nash, 13 Tom Farrell, 12 Alex Nankivell, 11 Thaakir Abrahams, 10 Jack Crowley, 9 Craig Casey.

1 Dian Bleuler, 2 Diarmuid Barron (captain), 3 John Ryan, 4 Evan O’Connell, 5 Fineen Wycherley, 6 Peter O’Mahony, 7 Alex Kendellen, 8 Gavin Coombes.

Munster Replacements

16 Niall Scannell, 17 Kieran Ryan, 18 Stephen Archer, 19 Tadhg Beirne, 20 John Hodnett, 21 Paddy Patterson, 22 Billy Burns, 23 Jack O’Donoghue.

2024 HRI Awards: Willie Mullins and Aidan O’Brien Lead Irish Horse Racing Excellence

The Irish horse racing community celebrated its annual achievements at the 2024 Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) Awards in Dublin, with prominent figures such as Willie Mullins and Aidan O’Brien receiving top honors.

Willie Mullins, a distinguished trainer from Kilkenny, was awarded the National Hunt Award. This accolade recognizes his exceptional accomplishments, including securing his 18th Irish champion trainer title and becoming the first Irish-based trainer in 70 years to clinch the British National Hunt title during the 2023/2024 season.

Aidan O’Brien Receives Flat Award

Tipperary’s Aidan O’Brien was honored with the Flat Award, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to flat racing. His achievements over the past year have further solidified his reputation as one of Ireland’s leading trainers.

Galopin Des Champs Named Horse of the Year

In addition to individual accolades, Galopin Des Champs was celebrated as Ireland’s Horse of the Year. This honor reflects the horse’s exceptional performances and significant impact on the racing scene throughout the year.

The HRI Awards serve as a testament to the dedication and excellence within Irish horse racing, highlighting the remarkable achievements of its trainers, jockeys, and equine athletes.

GAA News – Donegal Trip, Limerick Panel, Galway v Armagh opener

Galway 1-10 Kerry 0-14 Tuam Stadium League div1 round 4 2019 — Expect no quarter asked and no quarter given as Galway and Kerry do battle again on Sunday. Photo credit: Shane Tighe

As the 2025 GAA season approaches, counties across Ireland are intensifying their preparations, with a focus on training camps, squad selections, and adapting to new regulations.

Limerick Hurling’s Pre-Season Developments

Limerick’s senior hurling manager, John Kiely, has unveiled a 46-player pre-season squad, drawing talent from 20 clubs within the county. This comprehensive panel includes seasoned players like Declan Hannon and emerging talents such as Evan O’Leary, reflecting a strategic blend aimed at sustaining Limerick’s competitive edge.

Donegal Football’s Warm-Weather Training

The Donegal senior football team, under the leadership of Jim McGuinness, is set to embark on a warm-weather training camp in Abu Dhabi. This initiative, commencing on December 7, aligns with the lifting of the collective training ban and mirrors last year’s successful pre-season strategy that culminated in Ulster SFC and Allianz League Division 2 titles.

Tipperary’s Strategic Preparations

Tipperary’s inter-county teams are gearing up for the season, with collective training sessions scheduled to start on December 7. The senior hurlers, led by Liam Cahill, are anticipated to begin their National League campaign against Galway on January 26. Simultaneously, the senior footballers, now under the guidance of Philly Ryan, will face Carlow on January 25, marking the onset of their competitive season.

Galway vs. Armagh: A Notable Season Opener

The National Football League Division 1 is set to feature a compelling rematch between Galway and Armagh on January 25. This encounter at Pearse Stadium will be the first under the newly installed floodlights, offering Galway an opportunity to avenge their previous All-Ireland final loss to Armagh.

Regulatory Changes and Player Welfare Initiatives

In a significant move, the GAA has suspended pre-season competitions for 2025, including the O’Byrne Cup and McKenna Cup, to alleviate player burnout and prioritise welfare. This decision, endorsed by the Gaelic Players Association (GPA), underscores a commitment to balancing competitive demands with athlete health.

As the 2025 GAA season unfolds, teams are diligently preparing through strategic training camps, squad enhancements, and adherence to new guidelines, all aimed at achieving success in the forthcoming competitions.

Champions Cup 2024/25 season is set to commence this weekend

The Investec Champions Cup 2024/25 season is set to commence this weekend, with Ireland’s provincial teams—Leinster, Munster, and Ulster—poised to make significant impacts on the European stage.

Simultaneously, Connacht is gearing up for a promising campaign in the EPCR Challenge Cup.

Leinster’s Pursuit of European Glory

Leinster Rugby, under the stewardship of head coach Leo Cullen, will begin their Champions Cup journey with an away fixture against Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate on Sunday, December 8. The team faces challenges with key players Tadhg Furlong, Jamie Osborne, and Will Connors ruled out due to injuries. However, the squad sees the return of Ryan Baird, Jordan Larmour, Jimmy O’Brien, Lee Barron, and Jack Conan, bolstering their lineup. Additionally, new signing Jordie Barrett is available for selection and has expressed enthusiasm about joining the team.

Munster’s Home Advantage

Munster Rugby, led by head coach Graham Rowntree, will host Stade Français at Thomond Park on Saturday, December 7, kicking off at 5:30 PM. The team aims to leverage their home advantage and the passionate support of their fans to secure a strong start in the competition.

Ulster’s Challenging Opener

Ulster Rugby faces a formidable challenge as they travel to Stade Ernest Wallon to play against Stade Toulousain on Sunday, December 8, with a 3:15 PM kickoff. Head coach Dan McFarland will look to his experienced players to lead the team in this tough opening fixture.

Connacht’s Challenge Cup Campaign

In the EPCR Challenge Cup, Connacht Rugby begins their campaign at home against Zebre Parma at the Dexcom Stadium on Saturday, December 7, with an 8:00 PM kickoff. The team aims to make a strong impression in the competition.

As the European rugby season unfolds, Irish provinces are set to showcase their resilience and skill on the continental stage, with fans eagerly anticipating the performances of their teams.

Premier League Midweek Action: Key Results and Standings Update

The Premier League midweek fixtures on December 3 and 4, 2024, delivered thrilling results that reshaped the league standings.

Crystal Palace secured a crucial 1-0 victory against Ipswich Town, with Odsonne Édouard’s strike in the 68th minute proving the difference. This win helps Palace climb to 10th place, while Ipswich remains rooted near the relegation zone. Leicester City, meanwhile, continued their impressive run with a commanding 3-1 win over West Ham United, thanks to a brace from Jamie Vardy and a clinical finish from James Maddison.

Wednesday’s matches included a clash between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St. James’ Park. Liverpool managed a hard-fought 2-1 win with goals from Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai. Arsenal hosted Manchester United in a dramatic encounter that ended in a 2-2 draw, with late goals from both sides keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

As the league approaches the halfway mark, Liverpool remains on top, followed closely by Arsenal and Chelsea. With Manchester City lurking in fourth, the title race promises to be one of the most competitive in years. Fans are eagerly awaiting this weekend’s fixtures, which could further shake up the standings.

Leinster’s Jordie Barrett Set for Champions Cup Debut

Leinster Rugby is set to unleash their star signing, Jordie Barrett, as the team gears up for their Champions Cup opener against the Bristol Bears this Sunday. The All Blacks legend, who joined Leinster earlier this year, has recovered from a minor knee injury and is ready to make an impact.

Rumors suggest that Jordie Barrett won’t be in Leinster for long, as he’s reportedly set to sign with an English Premiership club for next season. Even if it’s just a short stint, it’s fantastic to have one of the world’s best players in the URC! 🌟🏉 pic.twitter.com/Qlxo7Xev3o

— Joe Naughton (@JoeNaConnacht) December 2, 2024

A New Era for Leinster

Barrett’s arrival has generated significant excitement among Leinster fans. Known for his versatility, Barrett can excel at fly-half, centre, or full-back, making him a valuable asset for the team. With his exceptional kicking game, strong defensive skills, and ability to read the game, Barrett is expected to elevate Leinster’s performance on the European stage.

Head coach Leo Cullen expressed his excitement about Barrett’s availability, saying, “Jordie has integrated seamlessly into the squad. His experience and skill set bring an extra edge to our game. We’re thrilled to see him in action.”

Bristol Bears Provide a Stern Test

Leinster’s opponents, the Bristol Bears, are no pushovers. With a squad full of talent, including players like Charles Piutau and Ellis Genge, Bristol is expected to challenge Leinster in every department. Their fast-paced attacking style could test Leinster’s defensive organisation, making this a crucial early-season clash.

Champions Cup Stakes

The Champions Cup opener marks the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling campaign for Leinster. After falling short in last season’s semi-finals, the team is determined to go all the way this year. Barrett’s inclusion bolsters an already strong lineup featuring Irish internationals like James Ryan, Caelan Doris, and Hugo Keenan.

What Fans Can Expect

Leinster fans will be eager to see how Barrett adapts to the European competition. His experience in high-pressure situations, having played in Rugby World Cups and Bledisloe Cup clashes, should make him a key figure in Leinster’s bid for glory.

The match kicks off at 5:30 PM on Sunday, and all eyes will be on Barrett as Leinster looks to start their Champions Cup campaign with a win. For supporters, the game represents not just an exciting debut but a glimpse into Leinster’s ambitions for the season.

Arsenal Make History with Fourth Straight Win Over Manchester United

Arsenal wrote their names into Premier League history books last night with a convincing 2-0 victory over Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium. This win marked the first time the Gunners have defeated their rivals in four consecutive matches—a feat that highlights Arsenal’s resurgence under Mikel Arteta.

A Dominant Display

The Gunners set the tempo early, with Bukayo Saka opening the scoring in the 25th minute. Saka’s curling shot from just outside the box left United goalkeeper Andre Onana helpless. Arsenal’s attack continued to flourish, and Gabriel Martinelli doubled the lead just after halftime, finishing off a swift counterattack.

Arsenal’s defense, led by William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, effectively neutralised United’s star-studded attack, including Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes. United struggled to find rhythm, with only a few half-chances created throughout the game.

Arteta’s Arsenal: A Team on the Rise

This historic victory is yet another sign of the progress Arsenal has made under Arteta. The manager’s emphasis on high-pressing football and fluid attacking play has transformed the team into genuine title contenders. Key players like Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice have stepped up this season, forming a formidable core.

Speaking after the game, Arteta said, “This result shows how far we’ve come as a team. Beating Manchester United four times in a row is no small feat. It’s a testament to the hard work and belief of these players.”

Pressure Mounts on Ten Hag

For Manchester United, this defeat adds to a growing sense of frustration. Erik ten Hag’s side has struggled for consistency this season, with defensive frailties and lackluster midfield performances becoming recurring issues.

Ten Hag acknowledged the challenges, stating, “We need to address our defensive lapses and create more opportunities. It’s a tough loss, but we have to move forward.”

A Heated Title Race

With this win, Arsenal solidifies their position in the top four and continues to chase Liverpool, who remain nine points clear at the top. The Gunners will be hoping to close the gap as the season progresses, while fans eagerly anticipate what promises to be an intense title race.

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