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Premier League Finishing Positions Predictions for the 2024-25 Season

Premier League Predictions for the 2024-25 Season

As the new Premier League season approaches, it’s time for my annual predictions for where all 20 clubs will finish. Last year’s forecast saw Manchester City clinching the title, which was a no-brainer, but predicting Aston Villa’s impressive fourth-place finish showed some insight. With the usual caveats about potential transfer activity, here’s how I see the standings shaping up for the 2024-25 season.

1. Manchester City

**Last Season:** Champions

Predicting against Manchester City feels almost futile. Pep Guardiola’s squad, led by the incredible Erling Haaland, continues to dominate, having secured their sixth Premier League title in seven years. With world-class talent and the financial power to bolster their squad further, City remains the team to beat.

**Insight:** Manchester City is likely to remain at the top, given their consistent quality and Guardiola’s relentless pursuit of success.

2. Arsenal

**Last Season:** Second

Arsenal made significant strides last season with the addition of Declan Rice and came close to challenging City. With Riccardo Calafiori strengthening their defense and potential improvements in attack, Arsenal will again be City’s closest competitor for the title. However, they might still fall short of clinching first place.

**Insight:** Arsenal’s strong squad and the experience gained from last season’s Champions League will keep them in contention for silverware.

3. Liverpool

**Last Season:** Third

Arne Slot takes over from Jurgen Klopp, inheriting a squad rich in talent. With Mohamed Salah, Alisson, and Virgil van Dijk still in the mix, Liverpool remains formidable. Slot’s challenge will be to integrate new signings and adapt to his new role, but the squad’s quality will ensure a top-four finish.

**Insight:** Liverpool is expected to challenge for trophies and secure a top-four position, despite some uncertainties surrounding the new manager.

4. Aston Villa

**Last Season:** Fourth

Under Unai Emery, Aston Villa exceeded expectations last season by finishing in the top four and qualifying for the Champions League. Although Douglas Luiz’s departure to Juventus is a blow, the squad’s depth and recent signings, including Amadou Onana, should help them maintain their position among the elite.

**Insight:** Aston Villa is poised to remain in the top four, thanks to a strong managerial presence and a talented squad.

5. Manchester United

**Last Season:** Eighth

Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United will be under scrutiny, especially after winning the FA Cup last season. With few transformative signings and some injury concerns, United’s progress hinges on their ability to resolve internal issues and integrate new players effectively.

**Insight:** Manchester United should see an improvement in their league position, aiming for a top-four finish, though challenges remain.

6. Tottenham Hotspur

**Last Season:** Fifth

Ange Postecoglou’s first season showed promise, but Spurs’ inability to secure a top-four spot was disappointing. With Dominic Solanke’s arrival and other intriguing signings, Tottenham aims to build on last season’s improvements and secure a top-six finish.

**Insight:** Spurs are likely to finish in the top six again, but top-four aspirations may be just out of reach.

7. Chelsea

**Last Season:** Sixth

Chelsea’s managerial changes continue with Enzo Maresca replacing Mauricio Pochettino. Despite a squad full of talent, the constant upheaval and ongoing transfer activity may impact their stability. If Maresca can harness the squad’s potential, Chelsea could exceed expectations.

**Insight:** Chelsea may struggle to break into the top four but should remain competitive, finishing around seventh place.

8. West Ham United

**Last Season:** Ninth

Julen Lopetegui takes over from David Moyes, bringing fresh tactics to a squad that includes exciting new signings. With strong additions like Niclas Fullkrug and Crysencio Summerville, West Ham aims to build on last season’s performance and push for a top-eight finish.

**Insight:** West Ham’s strong squad and promising new signings suggest a possible top-eight finish.

9. Newcastle United

**Last Season:** Seventh

Newcastle’s summer was marked by administrative changes and player sales. Despite losing key players and experiencing boardroom shifts, the squad still has potential. Securing a top-six finish could be challenging, but Newcastle’s squad depth and potential additions could keep them competitive.

**Insight:** Newcastle is likely to remain in the top ten, aiming for a top-six spot if they can stabilize their situation.

10. Crystal Palace

**Last Season:** Tenth

Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner, played exciting football last season. With the departure of key players like Michael Olise and potential interest in others, maintaining their position in the top half will be crucial. Their attacking style promises another entertaining season.

**Insight:** Palace is expected to stay in the top half, possibly finishing around tenth place.

11. Everton

**Last Season:** 15th

Sean Dyche’s focus will be on improving Everton’s fortunes in their final season at Goodison Park. Despite losing Amadou Onana and with an injury-prone striker, Everton’s defensive solidity and new additions should ensure a more comfortable finish.

**Insight:** Everton is likely to secure a mid-table position, aiming for around eleventh place.

12. Brighton & Hove Albion

**Last Season:** 11th

Brighton has undergone a managerial change with Fabian Hurzeler taking charge. With exciting young players and new signings, the squad has potential but will need time to adapt. Maintaining their mid-table status will be an achievement in a competitive league.

**Insight:** Brighton is expected to finish around twelfth, depending on how well the new manager integrates the squad.

13. Fulham

**Last Season:** 13th

Fulham faces challenges after losing key players like Joao Palhinha and Tosin Adarabioyo. However, with new signings and a talented squad, Marco Silva’s team should navigate a mid-table finish with some stability.

**Insight:** Fulham is likely to end the season around thirteenth, balancing between consolidation and progress.

14. Bournemouth

**Last Season:** 12th

Bournemouth will need to adapt after losing Dominic Solanke. Under Andoni Iraola, the team showed resilience last season and should continue to improve. Their goal will be to stay clear of relegation and achieve a respectable finish.

**Insight:** Bournemouth is expected to finish around fourteenth, with survival as a primary goal.

15. Wolverhampton Wanderers

**Last Season:** 14th

Gary O’Neil’s steady hand at Wolves is crucial, especially after losing key players. The squad’s performance will depend on new signings and reinvestment. Maintaining a mid-table position will be the goal.

**Insight:** Wolves should finish around fifteenth, contingent on their ability to replace departed players effectively.

16. Nottingham Forest

**Last Season:** 17th

Nottingham Forest’s focus will be on stability under Nuno Espirito Santo. Key players like Morgan Gibbs-White will be vital, and maintaining squad cohesion will be crucial for avoiding relegation.

**Insight:** Forest is likely to finish around sixteenth, aiming for another season of survival.

17. Southampton

**Last Season:** N/A

Returning to the Premier League, Southampton will be under the guidance of Russell Martin. Their strategy will be crucial, and survival will be the primary objective, with some potential for surprises.

**Insight:** Southampton might finish seventeenth, aiming to stay in the league and avoid immediate relegation.

18. Leicester City

**Last Season:** N/A

Leicester City’s return to the Premier League comes with challenges, including financial issues and a new manager in Steve Cooper. Their primary goal will be survival, with an uphill struggle expected.

**Insight:** Leicester is likely to finish eighteenth, focusing on avoiding relegation after a tumultuous period.

19. Ipswich Town

**Last Season:** N/A

Ipswich Town’s return to the Premier League will be challenging. Manager Kieran McKenna’s goal will be to ensure survival, with the team facing an uphill battle against established top-flight clubs.

**Insight:** Ipswich is expected to finish nineteenth, with survival as their main goal.

20. Sheffield United

**Last Season:** N/A

Sheffield United’s aim will be to adapt quickly to Premier League demands. With a focus on survival, they will need to navigate a tough season against more established teams.

**Insight:** Sheffield United may struggle and could finish in twentieth place, aiming to stay up against the odds.

This forecast considers current squad strengths and managerial changes but is subject to significant alterations as the season progresses and new transfers are made.

Wins for Francis Derwin and Emilie Conter at Dublin Horse Show

Belgium's Emilie Conter and Ocean Quality won the Minerva Stakes in the Main Arena on Wednesday. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

The opening Speed Stakes on day one of the Dublin Horse Show at the RDS saw an Irish 1-2-3 with Francis Derwin taking the win aboard Parvati AEG. The combination were clear in 52.51 seconds to claim the winner’s prize.

The runner-up spot went to Niamh McEvoy and Templepatrick Welcome Limmerick – stopping the timers in 53.46 seconds.

Derry’s Daniel Coyle and Lena VDL were also clear in a slightly slower time of  54.53 seconds – good enough for third place.

The Minerva Stakes by LHK Insurance was the second International class in the Main Arena on Wednesday. This class went the way of Belgium through Emilie Conter and Ocean Quality. Their clear round in 56.42 was unbeatable.

Julien Gonin of France, riding Estrella De La Batia, claimed the second spot, with a clear round in 57.91 seconds.

Best of the Irish combinations in this class was Olympian Cian O’Connor, who took the third position with Fox Chapel – they went clear in 58.15 seconds.

There will be 15 international classes throughout the five days, including Friday’s Underwriting Exchange Nations Cup of Ireland for the award of the Aga Khan Trophy.

The highly anticipated Defender Puissance will be the main attraction in the Main Arena on Saturday evening, while the Rolex Grand Prix of Ireland, part of the Rolex Series, will the the final international event in the Main Arena on Sunday, 18 August, 2024, the final day of the 2024 Dublin Horse Show.

Connacht Rugby 2024-25 Squad Depth Analysis

Connacht Rugby 2024-25 Squad Depth Analysis

As Connacht Rugby prepares for the 2024-25 season, their squad depth shows a promising mix of experience and emerging talent. Here’s a detailed look at the squad across different positions:

**Back Three**
1. Mack Hansen
2. Santiago Cordero
3. Shayne Bolton
4. Shane Jennings
5. Andrew Smith
6. Chay Mullins
7. John Porch
8. Shane Mallon*

**Back Row**
1. Shamus Hurley-Langton
2. Cian Prendergast
3. Conor Oliver
4. Paul Boyle
5. Sean Jansen
6. Oisin McCormack

**Locks**
1. Niall Murray
2. Oisín Dowling
3. Josh Murphy
4. Darragh Murray
5. Joe Joyce
6. David O’Connor

**Out-Half**
1. Josh Ioane
2. Jack Carty
3. Harry West*
4. Sean Naughton*
5. JJ Hanrahan (Injured)

**Scrum-Half**
1. Matthew Devine
2. Colm Reilly
3. Caolin Blade
4. Ben Murphy

**Centre**
1. Bundee Aki
2. Cathal Forde
3. Byron Ralston
4. Piers O’Conor
5. Hugh Gavin
6. David Hawksaw
7. John Devine*

**Hookers**
1. Dylan Tierney-Martin
2. Dave Heffernan
3. Eoin De Buitléar
4. Adam McBurney

**Props**
1. Finlay Bealham
2. Peter Dooley
3. Denis Buckley
4. Jack Aungier
5. Jordan Duggan
6. Sam Illo
7. Temi Lasisi

Thoughts on Connacht’s Squad Depth

Connacht Rugby’s 2024-25 squad depth reflects a strong balance across all positions. The back three offers a mix of seasoned internationals and emerging talent, while the back row features a robust selection of versatile players. The locks are well-covered with a blend of experience and potential, and the out-half and scrum-half positions are supported by both seasoned and promising players. In the centre, Connacht has a depth of talent that could prove crucial in high-stakes matches. The hookers and props demonstrate a solid foundation with depth and strength in the forward pack.

Overall, Connacht’s squad looks poised for a competitive season with a mix of experience, emerging stars, and depth across key positions.

Premier Sports new Broadcaster for Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup

EPCR Announces Premier Sports as UK and Ireland Broadcaster for Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup

EPCR has secured a three-year partnership with Premier Sports, making them the lead broadcaster for the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup in the UK and Ireland through the 2026/27 season. This deal includes coverage of all 63 Investec Champions Cup matches and extensive EPCR Challenge Cup fixtures, including pool matches, knockout rounds, and finals.

Premier Sports, a key player in the rugby broadcasting landscape, already covers the BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) and TOP14. This new deal will see Premier Sports expand its rugby coverage to include all top European club fixtures, positioning itself as the most comprehensive rugby destination in the UK and Ireland.

The broadcaster aims to launch a 24/7 rugby channel, featuring the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup at its core. Premier Sports’ extensive rugby lineup will include 80 European fixtures, 151 URC games, and 110 TOP14 matches, showcasing their commitment to delivering unmatched rugby content.

Jacques Raynaud, CEO of EPCR, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Premier Sports’ ambition to enhance rugby coverage and ensure maximum visibility for EPCR competitions. Mickey O’Rourke, Managing Director of Premier Sports, emphasized the channel’s dedication to expanding rugby coverage and providing exceptional viewing experiences for fans.

With the 2024/25 season kicking off on December 6, 2024, rugby enthusiasts can look forward to three seasons of premier club rugby action, exclusively on Premier Sports.

DATES FOR INVESTEC CHAMPIONS CUP AND EPCR CHALLENGE CUP 2024/25 SEASON

Round 1: 6/7/8 December 2024

Round 2: 13/14/15 December 2024

Round 3: 10/11/12 January 2025

Round 4: 17/18/19 January 2025

Round of 16: 4/5/6 April 2025

Quarter-Finals: 11/12/13 April 2025

Semi-Finals: 2/3/4 May 2025

EPCR Challenge Cup Final: 23 May 2025

Investec Champions Cup Final: 24 May 2025

 

Cork Triumphs Over Galway to Secure 30th All-Ireland Senior Camogie Title

Cork Triumphs Over Galway to Secure 30th All-Ireland Senior Camogie Title

**Cork 1-16, Galway 0-16**

Cork claimed their 30th Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship title, edging out Galway in a thrilling encounter at Croke Park. Substitutes Sorcha McCartan and Clodagh Finn played pivotal roles, with McCartan scoring two crucial points after replacing injured goal-scorer Katrina Mackey.

An official attendance of 27,811 witnessed the intense clash, with Cork’s depth proving decisive as they secured back-to-back titles and a senior/intermediate double. Galway, led by the inspirational Aoife Donohue, who scored four points from play, fought back valiantly from a six-point deficit to level the game. However, Cork’s strong bench and resilience in the final stretch sealed the victory.

The first half saw all six Cork forwards on the scoresheet, while Galway’s defense successfully contained their goal threats. Cork started strong, with early points from Mackey and Saoirse McCarthy, but Galway’s tactical adjustments, including positioning Niamh Hanniffy and Carrie Dolan in the full-forward line, caused problems for the Rebels.

The teams were tied eight times in the first half, and Galway led 0-10 to 0-9 at halftime. However, Cork turned the game around in the second half, with Mackey’s 36th-minute goal—a scrappy effort that pushed her to the top of the championship’s scoring charts—proving crucial. Despite Mackey’s injury forcing her off, McCartan’s introduction and subsequent scores kept Cork ahead.

Galway responded with six unanswered points, showcasing their tenacity and closing the gap. Yet, McCartan’s late points, combined with Finn’s skillful play, ensured Cork’s triumph. Laura Treacy’s standout performance in defense also contributed to the Rebels’ success, securing their place in camogie history once again.

SCORERS FOR CORK: K Mackey 1-2; S McCarthy (1f) A O’Connor (fs) 0-3 each; O Cahalane, S McCartan 0-2 each; C Healy, F Keating, A Thompson, C Finn 0-1 each
SCORERS FOR GALWAY: C Dolan 0-8(6fs); A Donohue 0-4; A O’Reilly 0-2; N Mallon, C Hickey 0-1 each
CORK: A Lee, I O’Regan, M Murphy, P Mackey, H Looney, L Treacy, L Hayes, A Thompson, A Healy, S McCarthy, F Keating, C Healy, A O’Connor, K Mackey, O Cahalane. Subs: S McCartan for Mackey inj (38), C O’Sullivan for C Healy (47), M Cahalane for Looney (51), C Finn for F Keating (53), E Murphy for O Cahalane (60+3)
GALWAY: S Healy, R Hanniffy, R Black, D Higgins, A Starr, A Keane, C Hickey, O Rabbitte, N Kilkenny, N Mallon, N McPeake, A Donohue, C Dolan, N Hanniffy, A O’Reilly. Subs: O McGrath for O’Reilly (49), N Niland for N Hanniffy (60+2), A Hesnan for Rabbitte (60+6)
REFEREE: Liz Dempsey (Kilkenny)

 

Video – Louis Rees-Zammit and Charlie Smyth Shine on NFL Debuts

Louis Rees-Zammit and Charlie Smyth Shine on NFL Debuts

Welsh rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit made an impressive NFL debut for the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, in their pre-season matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite the Chiefs’ 26-13 loss at EverBank Stadium in Florida, Rees-Zammit’s first appearance on the American football stage was a “great first experience.”

Rees-Zammit, known for his speed on the rugby field, showcased his versatility by taking on multiple roles during the game. The 23-year-old featured as a running back, kicker, kick-returner, and even contributed to punt coverage. His stat line included two carries for one yard, one reception for three yards, and a tackle on special teams. In a surprising twist, he also handled a kick-off in the fourth quarter.

Reflecting on his debut, Rees-Zammit shared his excitement with the Irish NFL Show: “It was a great first experience. I loved getting the snaps I did, especially on special teams. Now, it’s about reviewing my performance and figuring out how I can improve.”

The atmosphere at the stadium left a strong impression on Rees-Zammit, who added, “The atmosphere was electric, with loads of Chiefs fans in the stands. It was a great game, and I’m looking forward to the next one.”

Currently, Rees-Zammit is vying for a spot on the Chiefs’ 53-man regular-season roster. However, he was listed as the fifth-choice running back on the team’s initial depth chart, indicating stiff competition ahead.

Another European player making his NFL debut was Charlie Smyth, a former Gaelic football goalkeeper from Ireland. Smyth made headlines by kicking a game-winning field goal in his first appearance for the New Orleans Saints, securing a 16-14 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. The 22-year-old rookie, like Rees-Zammit, entered the NFL through the International Player Pathway Programme earlier this year. His decisive 37-yard field goal with just five seconds left on the clock highlighted a memorable debut.

Rees-Zammit’s transition from rugby to the NFL is being closely watched, and his debut has only fueled anticipation for what he can achieve on the gridiron. As he continues to adapt to American football, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how his skills translate in the highly competitive NFL environment.

Lara Gillespie Secures Top Ten Finish in Olympic Omnium at Paris 2024

Lara Gillespie Secures Top Ten Finish in Olympic Omnium at Paris 2024

Lara Gillespie, making her Olympic debut, delivered an impressive performance in the Women’s Omnium at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, finishing 10th overall. As the final Team Ireland athlete to compete at the Games, Gillespie showcased her talent in the last race at the Saint Quentin-en-Yvelines velodrome, concluding her Olympic campaign with a top-ten finish.

The Omnium, a challenging event that consists of four races in just three hours, featured 22 riders vying for Olympic medals. Gillespie’s journey began with the Scratch Race, where she completed the 7.5km course in 15th place, earning 12 points.

Her standout moment came in the Tempo Race, where she secured a crucial lap gain and four sprint victories, propelling her to first place in this event and adding 40 points to her tally.

In the Elimination Race, Gillespie’s strong performance continued as she finished ninth, bringing her total score to 76 points, just 20 points shy of a bronze medal.

The final Points Race saw Gillespie gain an early lap, adding another 20 points to her score. With fierce competition among the top ten, the leaderboard remained fluid, but Gillespie maintained her position and finished 10th overall.

At just 23 years old, Gillespie demonstrated immense potential and resilience. Reflecting on her Olympic experience, she expressed a mix of pride and determination: “I was hoping for a top-five result, but I’m proud of how I raced. I was brave, took chances, and gave everything. There’s a lot to improve on, but also many positives to take away. I’m looking forward to the next four years.”

Gillespie’s performance in Paris caps off a successful week, where she also made history as part of the first Women’s Team Pursuit squad to represent Ireland at the Olympics, setting a new national record. She also competed in the Women’s Madison alongside Alice Sharpe.

As the Paris 2024 Olympic Games come to a close, Gillespie’s journey marks the beginning of what promises to be a bright future in international cycling. Having already won gold in the Omnium at the UEC Under 23 European Championships last year, and finishing just off the podium at the 2024 UEC European Championships, she is poised for even greater achievements in the years ahead.

Jennifer Valente of the USA claimed her second consecutive Omnium Olympic Gold, while Poland’s Daria Pikulik took silver, and New Zealand’s Ally Wollaston secured bronze. Gillespie’s top ten finish solidifies her status as one of the rising stars in women’s track cycling.

Tipperary Beat Laois to Win All-Ireland Junior Camogie Title

Tipperary Secures Dramatic Win Over Laois to Claim Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Junior Camogie Title

In a thrilling finale, Jenny Grace’s injury-time free clinched a 0-12 to 1-8 victory for Tipperary over Laois, securing the Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Premier Junior Camogie title. Grace’s decisive point in the fifth minute of stoppage time completed a stunning comeback, as Tipperary redeemed themselves from last year’s final defeat.

Laois dominated the opening stages, taking control early on and holding the lead until the 52nd minute. Despite their strong start, they were unable to capitalize fully, leading by only four points at halftime. Their early momentum was highlighted by a powerful goal from Susie Delaney, but missed opportunities and wides left the door open for Tipperary.

Tipperary showed resilience after the break, transforming into a more physical and determined side. Key contributions from their bench, particularly Eva O’Dwyer and Lily Fahie, turned the tide. Fahie, who entered the game in the 58th minute, set up her sister Anna for a crucial equalizer in the 62nd minute before winning the free that led to the winning point.

Grace’s performance was pivotal, as she notched nine points, including the game-winner, demonstrating her experience and composure under pressure.

Laois, despite their early dominance, were left to rue their missed chances. They employed an effective strategy of stretching the Tipperary defense with diagonal passes and fast-paced attacks, but their inability to extend their lead proved costly.

Tipperary’s comeback was fueled by a determined second-half performance, as they tightened their defense and capitalised on Laois’s mistakes. The match ended in heartbreak for Laois, who had fought valiantly but fell just short as Grace’s late heroics secured the title for Tipperary.

Babouche wins Keeneland Phoenix Stakes for Ger Lyons and Colin Keane

Babouche and Colin Keane won the Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at The Curragh on Saturday. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

Babouche, in the colours of Juddmonte, gave Ger Lyons and Colin Keane Group 1 success at The Curragh this afternoon.

The previously unbeaten Kodiac filly maintained her 100% record when taking the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes over six furlongs, the highlight of an eight-race Saturday card at flat racing’s headquarters.

Sent off the 5/2 second favourite behind the Aidan O’Brien-trained son of No Nay Never, Whistlejacket (8/13 favourite), Babouche gave Tally Ho Stud stallion Kodiac an eighth individual Group 1 winner.

The Ballydoyle runner, Whistlejacket, in the hands of Ryan Moore was second, one and a half lengths behind the winning filly, with the Adrian Murray-trained, David Egan-ridden 16/1 chance Arizona Blaze coming home third, a length and three-quarters behind the runner-up.

Watch Replay – Ireland’s 4x400m Relay Team Secures Historic Spot in Olympic Final

Ireland’s 4x400m Relay Team Secures Historic Spot in Olympic Final with Thrilling Performance in Paris

In a stunning display of athleticism, Ireland’s 4x400m relay team has advanced to the final of the Olympic Games, making history as the first Irish women’s relay team to do so. Competing in the heats this morning in Paris, the team—comprising Sophie Becker, Phil Healy, Kelly McGrory, and Sharlene Mawdsley—clocked an impressive 3:25.05, securing third place behind Jamaica (3:24.92 SB) and the Netherlands (3:25.03), and claiming one of the automatic qualification spots.

Wexford’s Sophie Becker set the pace with her fastest-ever relay split (50.90), handing the baton to Bandon’s Phil Healy, who maintained the team’s position through a determined leg. Becker’s performance was the fastest of all opening legs by half a second.

Donegal’s Kelly McGrory followed, delivering a remarkable Olympic debut with her fastest relay leg to date, before passing the baton to Tipperary’s Sharlene Mawdsley. Mawdsley, renowned for her strong finishes, anchored the team with a final leg of 49.65, ensuring their place in the final.

The team expressed their excitement and pride after the race:

“It’s unbelievable to come away as Olympic finalists. That was our goal coming in here. We knew the draw was tough, but to secure an automatic qualification early in the morning is just fantastic,” said Phil Healy.

Kelly McGrory added, “I knew I had to go out hard from the start. We passed the baton alongside the Dutch, and my goal was to be ahead at the 200m mark, especially to set Sharlene up well. I’m so happy with how it went. All the girls ran brilliantly, and we got the job done.”

Sophie Becker reflected on her performance: “I’m absolutely delighted. It was challenging not knowing how Jamaica was performing, so I focused on staying close. The repechage helped a lot; I felt great after my race a few days ago and was eager to go again. The result speaks for itself; the repechage was definitely worth it!”

Sharlene Mawdsley shared her thoughts on their historic achievement: “The girls always say I look so composed on the last leg, but inside, I’m constantly deciding when to make my move. That’s what we train for—to handle those moments. I trust myself in the last 100m of a relay now, and I just charged for home.”

Phil Healy concluded with praise for the supporters: “The atmosphere was electric, and it’s all thanks to the traveling Irish fans. Rhasidat was right—it really did feel like Morton Stadium out there! The roar Sophie got at the start was unbelievable, and the support from back home has been incredible. It’s the closest we’ll ever get to a ‘home Games’.”

This historic performance sets the stage for an exciting final, as Ireland’s 4x400m relay team prepares to compete for Olympic glory.

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