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Tennessee Titans @ Indianapolis Colts – Preview, Fantasy Advice & Prediction

Sunday’s live games on Sky begins with a huge game for control of the AFC North as the Indianapolis Colts welcome the Tennessee Titans to Lucas Oil Stadium.

Preview

This is, of course, the reverse fixture of the game 2 weeks ago between these team in which Indianapolis came away with an impressive 34-17 win in Nashville. With both sides sitting on 7-3 records this is what is known as a ‘6-pointer’ in soccer terms and will be a major factor in determining the winner of this division. The Colts will have the psychological advantage from winning 2 weeks ago and will surely be confident of wrapping up the series sweep but Tennessee will feel they didn’t do themselves justice in that game and be out to prove a point. This one could be fireworks!

Betpat Betting:
Money line: Tennessee 11/8 Indianapolis 6/10
Points Spread: Indianapolis -3
Over/Under: 51.5

I wouldn’t go near 6/10 on Indy especially if I don’t know for definite if Quenton Nelson is playing. If he gets ruled out, expect those odds to change significantly, so I’d take that gamble on Tennessee at 11/8 while I can get them. Even if Nelson does play, they still have a really good shot to win this game.



Fantasy Football Outlook:


Tennessee Titans:
As per usual, the Tennessee game-plan offensively will revolve largely around Derrick Henry. Their formula of establishing Henry’s ultra-physical brand of running and slicing in play-action off it has proven to be very difficult for teams to handle. Expect Henry to deliver his usual high performance, even against an extremely stingy Colts defense.

Ryan Tannehill will be one of those players who will feel his performance needs to improve on the last game if Tennessee are to reverse their fortunes this time out.  He was held to 15/27 for a pedestrian 147 yards and a TD in that game, and while they’re not terrible stats (The Titans have won playoff games with him doing much less) he wasn’t able to make big plays when needed to keep the Titans in real contention to win that game. But Tannehill has more ability than he is generally given credit for so don’t count him out of this one.

Their game breakers in the passing game are WR AJ Brown and Tight End Jonnu Smith. Smith in particular has put his name in the conversation of elite fantasy TE’s this year and is actually still available to be picked up in over 10% of NFL.com fantasy leagues. I find that staggering.

Looking further down their roster, it’s tough to see anyone I would be confident of having a good day against the Colts. They run a lot of 2 Tight End stuff so Anthony Firkser could be one. He has shown he can be a factor, especially in the red zone, so if you are stuck at TE, he could be a shout. But that would be a brave call. And I was a big believer in D’onta Foreman coming out of college. His career hasn’t panned out thus far, but he has enough ability to get the job done. Just don’t expect his carry count to be high while Derrick Henry is healthy.


Indianapolis Colts:
The Colts offense had a really good day against Tennessee the last time and Philip Rivers looked very comfortable in that game. Rivers is listed as questionable for this game but is expected to play. He has been inconsistent throughout his career so it will be interesting to see if he can have another solid outing here.
The Colts run game has been dealt a blow with impressive Rookie RB Jonathan Taylor has being ruled out so the combination of Nyheim Hines and Jordan Wilkins will carry that load. Hines recent form has been quite good, and he gashed the Titans for 115 total yards and 2 TD’s last time out. Expect him to see the field often, but the tough running will be left to Wilkins.

Outside, we may be starting to see the emergence of rookie Michael Pittman as a legit go-to receiver. With Tennessee’s defense being fairly meagre at defending receivers, Pittman and veteran TY Hilton are both solid options at wide receiver. Trey Burton, Mo-Allie Cox and Jack Doyle make up the TE trio but none of these stand out to me as a quality option in this game to be honest.

One thing with noting is the injury report on their offensive line. Centre Ryan Kelly is out and star Guard Quenton Nelson is questionable. Both would be huge losses and could severely affect their offensive output with a strong Titans defensive front waiting in the wings.

 

My Prediction:


I genuinely think this game could be decided by whether Quenton Nelson plays or not. With Centre Ryan Kelly already out, if Nelson doesn’t play, I can’t see anything other than a Titans victory. If he does, they still have a tough task on their hands but it’s not impossible. Their defense is rock solid and can keep them in the game for as long as needs be. But if they can’t get any rhythm on offense, and with DT DeForest Bucker missing for the Colts, Derrick Henry will take this game over without needing to be asked twice. It’s a much closer game if the Colts offense can mount a threat but Tennessee are my favourites for this game.

Tennessee by 4 (much more if Q is out)

Video Highlights – Waterford beat Kilkenny to reach All-Ireland Final

WATERFORD got the perfect result as they won the All-Ireland hurling semi-final by 4pts to reach All-Ireland Final on Sunday 13th December.  

Kilkenny 2-23 2-27 Waterford, Result

Kilkenny had the perfect start with goals from TJ Reid and Martin Keoghan in the first 20 minutes. Waterford hit nine wides in the first half and trailed by 7pts. It was Kilkenny 2-11 0-10 Waterford at the break.

man of the match Stephen Bennett hit a great goal and some lovely free pucks in the second half as Waterford ran riot on a punch drunk Kilkenny team. Austin Gleeson was super and hit 5pts. Daragh Lyons superb goal probably sealed victory for the Deise.

The second half was Waterford 2-17 to 0-12 Kilkenny, It was the first semi-final Kilkenny have lost in 15years and only the third time Waterford have beaten the Cats in the championship.

MORE TO FOLLOW

  • 75′

    Kilkenny 2-23 2-27 Waterford, Result

     
  • 74′

    Austin Gleeson point to put Waterford 4pts up

     
  • 74′

    Tadhg De Burca, Waterford lead by 3pts

     
  • 73′

    Paddy Deegan point

     
  • 72′

    Iarlaith Daly point

     
  • 70′

    TJ Reid point, there are 4min injury time

     
  • 69′

    Point of the day from Austin Gleeson

     
  • 68′

    TJ Reid from play, two in it

     
  • 67′

    TJ Reid free and its only 3pts in it

     
  • 66′

    It’s Kilkenny 2-19 to Waterford 2-23 with five min plus injury time to play

     
  • 65′

    John Donnelly with a lovely score

     
  • 64′

    Super point by Stephen Bennett

     
  • 62′

    TJ Reid free, Kilkenny trail by 4pts

     
  • 60′

    Darragh Lyons GOAL

     
  • 61′

    Jack Fagan and TJ trade scores

     
  • 58′

    Bennett free goes wide

     
  • 55′

    Neil Montgomery and TJ Reid trade scores

     
  • 54′

    Dessie Hutchinson puts Waterford 2pts up

     
  • 52′

    Neil Montgomery point puts Waterford 1pt up

     
  • 51′

    Auston Gleeson point, its all level

     
  • 50′

    Jamie Barron gets Waterford within a point

     
  • 43′

    Bennett free, only two in it

     
  • 42′

    Bennett gets Waterford back to within 3pts

     
  • 38′

    Bennett from play and TJ Reid from a free

     
  • 37′

    Stephen Bennett GOAL

     
  • 36′

    Neil Montgomery wide, thats ten wides for Waterford

     
  • 35′

    Kilkenny 2-11 0-10 Waterford, Half time in Croke Park

     
  • 35′

    Stephen Bennett free

     
  • 35′

    TJ Reid free

     
  • 34′

    Neil Montgomery

     
  • 34′

    Lovely score from Bennett

     
  • 33′

    Stephen Bennett point

     
  • 32′

    John Donnelly point

     
  • 28′

    TJ Reid free, another Austin Gleeson wide

     
  • 29′

    Dessie Hutchinson point

     
  • 26′

    TJ Reid GOAL, Kilkenny 8pts up

     
  • 25′

    Stephen Bennett free

     
  • 25′

    Stephen Bennett free

     
  • 25′

    Conor Browne

     
  • 25′

    Eoin Cody point

     
  • 23′

    Another TJ Reid free

     
  • 22′

    Two poor wides from Austin Gleeson

     
  • 20′

    Calum Lyons point

     
  • 17′

    It’s been all Kilkenny, they could be 10pts up. They have hit four wides.

     
  • 14′

    Stephen Bennett point free and TJ Reid free

     
  • 12′

    Martin Keoghan GOAL for Kilkenny

     
  • 10′

    Jack Prendergast point for Waterford

     
  • 6′

    Martin Keoghan score, Richie Hogan score, they now lead by 4pts

     
  • 3′

    TJ Reid point

     
  • 1′

    TJ Reid free

     

Teams

  • Waterford : Stephen O’Keeffe; Ian Kenny, Conor Prunty, Shane McNulty; Calum Lyons, Tadhg De Burca, Kevin Moran; Jamie Barron, Jake Dillon; Jack Fagan, Kieran Bennett, Stephen Bennett; Dessie Hutchinson, Austin Gleeson, Jack Prendergast. Subs: Billy Nolan, Peter Hogan, Mark O’Brien, Mikey Kearney, Patrick Curran, Colin Dunford, Conor Gleeson, Darragh Lyons, Neil Montgomery, Iarlaith Daly, Billy Power.

     

  • Kilkenny : Eoin Murphy; Conor Delaney, Huw Lawlor, Tommy Walsh; Padraig Walsh, Cillian Buckley, Paddy Deegan; Conor Browne, Conor Fogarty; John Donnelly, TJ Reid, Martin Keoghan; Billy Ryan, Richie Hogan, Eoin Cody. Subs: Darren Brennan, Paul Murphy, Joey Holden, Ciaran Wallace, Richie Reid, Alan Murphy, Colin Fennelly, Walter Walsh, Liam Blanchfield, Ger Aylward, Niall Brassil.

Ireland Showjumping team third in Spanish Nations Cup

The Irish Showjumping team finished in third place in FEI Nations Cup at Vejer De La Frontera in Spain today.

Seventeen teams competed at the Spanish venue with the Irish side managed by Michael Blake.

Ireland started brilliantly and shared the lead at the halfway stage. Three clear rounds from Mark McAuley with Jasco VD Bisschop, Michael G Duffy with Lapuccino 2 (ISH) and Cameron Hanley with his own ESI Toulouse (ISH) meant Denis Lynch didn’t need to jump in the first round with Cristello.

The top eight teams at the end of round one advanced to round two.

Ireland and Egypt started the second round on zero faults, with Denmark on 2 faults, and Germany and Sweden on four faults. Morocco, Portugal and Brazil also make it through to the second round on five faults.

Britain, The Netherlands, France, Italy and the home team from Spain all missed out on the second round of the competition.

Ireland’s lead slips in round two

In round two, Mark McAuley completed an excellent double clear and it looked at that stage that Ireland could be set for victory.

Four fault rounds from both Michael G Duffy and Cameron Hanley, along with three clear rounds from the Germany team, put the pressure on Ireland’s anchor rider Denis Lynch.

The Tipperary native needed to jump clear to force a jump-off and he left all the fences standing with Cristello, however a foot in the water ended Ireland’s hopes of a win.

It was a second victory in the space of a week for the Germans after they had also won at Vilamoura in Portugal.

They finished on a score of four faults while Denmark finished as runners-up on six faults and Ireland third on eight faults.

Ireland team manager Michael Blake said of today’s competition:

“We again tried out a couple of new horses and a completely different team to the one from last week in Portugal. It was disappointing that our lead ebbed away in the second round.”

Blake continued:

“We again finished on the podium and that means we have finished on the podium five times from the six Nations Cups during a year in which we had huge disruption to the Nations Cup calendar.”

Liverpool undone by late VAR controversy at The Amex

Brighton scored a late equaliser after an injury time penalty was awarded.

Liverpool travelled to The Amex this afternoon for their meeting with Brighton. A win – or draw – for Liverpool would mean they go top of the table momentarily, with Tottenham still to play. They only managed a draw in the end after a late Brighton penalty to the displeasure of Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool fans alike.

Brighton manager Graham Potter has his side playing fast, progressive football. They have, however, struggled for goals despite retaining possession well and creating chances. That was the same story today as they squandered a number of opportunities to take the lead, they will, however, be satisfied with the end result.

Liverpool had a succession of half chances early in the match but failed to capitalize.

Brighton were the ones to fashion the first big chance of the match. Neal Maupay did well on the halfway line to turn his defender before playing Aaron Connolly through on goal. The Irish striker had the goal at his mercy but he dragged his shot wide. A brilliant chance for Brighton to take the lead.

Connolly caused Liverpool yet more problems in the 19th minute as he was upended by Neco Williams in the Liverpool box. He turned provider for Maupay on this occasion as the French striker stepped up to take the penalty. He sent Alisson the wrong way, but shot wide of the post while doing so.

Just minutes after the striker walked straight down the tunnel while clutching his hamstring. A nightmare few minutes for him.

Liverpool forwards Mohamed Salah thought he gave his side the lead in the 35th minute as he was played in behind before finishing past Matt Ryan. After a lengthy check by VAR though, the Egyptian was adjudged to be slightly offside which in turn ruled the goal out.

A small number of half chances for both sides followed before the referee sounded for the break. Brighton might have felt hard done by not to be in the lead.

Brighton’s hard luck in front of goal eventually came back to haunt them in the 60th minute. It was that man again, Diogo Jota, who put his side in the lead. After a good run in which he made space for himself, the Portuguese international finished sharply into the bottom left corner.

Connolly and Salah were taken off within minutes of each other shortly after the goal. Neither were happy with their manager’s decision to make the substitution – and rightly so. Although Salah has had better games, he still looked dangerous on occasion and being a key player for the team, would have expected to last the full 90. The substitution was likely taken as a fitness precaution given the Egyptian’s recent positive Covid-19 test, but he obviously felt up to the mark based on the reaction. Aaron Connolly was equally bemused and frustrated with his substitution. After a string of matches where the Irish striker started on the bench, he got his chance in the starting XI today. Although he missed an early opportunity to take the lead, he caused serious problems for Liverpool on occasion.

Liverpool thought they had the game wrapped up in the 84th minute after Sadio Mane headed in from a Fabinho free kick. Upon review, however, the Senegalese forward had strayed offside meaning the goal would be disallowed.

Liverpool looked fairly comfortable despite Brighton’s refusal to lay down and probably thought they were good value for the lead. VAR would strike again, though, as another penalty was awarded in injury time after Brighton forward Danny Welbeck was fouled in the area. Referee Stuart Attwell was called over to the monitor to review the incident after a VAR check and controversially pointed to the spot after some thought.

Pascal Gross stepped up to take the penalty this time. He made no mistake as he sent the keeper the wrong way and into the back of the net. Jurgen Klopp wasn’t too pleased with the decision as he sarcastically applauded the officials from the sideline.

There was to be no further contentious issues as the match finished as a 1-1 draw. Liverpool can feel hard done by given the number of VAR incidents against them during the match, but a Brighton loss would have equally been harsh.

Limerick vs Galway: Hurling Semi-Final Preview, TV Channel, Betting, Prediction

Galway redeemed themselves from their Leinster Final defeat by beating Tipperary last weekend. Now, they are one game away from competing in another All-Ireland final. But, they have the toughest opponent going in the form of John Kiely’s Limerick. The Munster men have swatted aside all who stood in their way so far this year and are current favourites to lift the Liam McCarthy.

Last weekend, Galway took to the field in the quarter-final to face last year’s winners Tipperary. It was a game where both teams showed why they’re among the best in the country. In the end, just two points separated them. This difference was largely thanks to Aidan Harte’s 66th minute goal for Galway. The corner-back doesn’t appear on the score sheet too often but he was there when Galway needed something special.

Before that, the westerners were in arrears but after Harte’s strike they held firm to eliminate the holders. Furthermore, the dismissal of Cathal Barrett for Tipperary in the 52nd minute gave Galway an advantage that they put them beyond the Premier men.

Tipperary made the Galwegians earn their semi-final spot. From the throw-in they were intense and clinical. Galway’s ability to win their own puck-out was a huge factor in them gaining a foothold in the game. Likewise, their economical use of possession was crucial. Joe Canning was his usual laser-like best from the dead-ball. However, a lapse in the second-quarter saw Tipperary outscore them by 8. If Limerick are allowed such a chance, it could be game over.

Limerick on a Quest for Liam McCarthy

To date, the 2018 All-Ireland Champions have beaten Clare, Tipperary, and Waterford. But, what was most impressive was the manner in which they won. They have been dominant in every area of the pitch during every performance. Their nine-point win over Tipperary was a real example of them displaying their intention of challenging for the title.

Most recently, Waterford fell victim to Kiely’s team in the Munster final. The Déise men really put up a challenge but in the end, Limerick’s four-point victory was well-deserved. Their superior conditioning continues to prove effective in the middle third. In addition to that, Limerick have developed a good habit of not wasting their chances. This formula has made them the team to beat.

There is no doubt that Galway possess the tools to overcome Limerick. But, they cannot afford to be wasteful in any area of the pitch. Also, the Tipperary game likely took its toll on the Galway team. As a result, Limerick’s superior squad depth could be vital if this game goes down to the wire.

The game is live on RTÉ and Sky Sports Mix.

Limerick are 8/15 favourites with Paddy Power. On the other hand, Galway are 2/1 and a draw is a long 9/1.

Prediction: Limerick. The Munster men just seem to be a different animal this year.

Team News

Limerick Senior Hurling Team to play Galway in the All Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Semi Final on Sunday 29th. November in Croke Park 4pm. is selected as follows

Limerick : Nicky Quaid; Sean Finn, Dan Morrissey, Barry Nash; Diarmaid Byrnes, Declan Hannon, Kyle Hayes; Darragh O’Donovan, William O’Donoghue; Gearoid Hegarty, Cian Lynch, Tom Morrissey; Aaron Gillane, Seamus Flanagan, Graeme Mulcahy.

Subs: Barry Hennessy, Conor Boylan, Adrian Breen, Peter Casey, Ronan Connolly, Aaron Costello, Richie English, Robbie Hanley, Paddy O’Loughlin, David Reidy, Pat Ryan.

Galway : Eanna Murphy; Aidan Harte, Daithi Burke, Shane Cooney; Fintan Burke, Gearoid McInerney, Joseph Cooney; Padraic Mannion, Johnny Coen; Joe Canning, Cathal Mannion, David Burke; Brian Concannon, Conor Cooney, Conor Whelan.

Subs: James Skehill, Darren Morrissey, Jack Fitzpatrick, Sean Loftus, Adrian Tuohy, Evan Niland, Jason Flynn, Sean Linnane, Niall Burke, Jarlath Mannion, Tadhg Haran.

 

 

 

 

 

Hurling Championship Semi-Final: Limerick vs Galway, Sunday, 29th November, 16:00 (Croke Park).

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Kilkenny vs Waterford: Hurling Semi-Final Preview, Team News, Betting, Prediction

After consecutive seasons of failing to emerge from Munster, Waterford have emerged as the surprise package in this year’s Championship. Now, Liam Cahill’s men are just one game away from competing in the final again. The last time the Liam McCarthy Cup went back to Waterford was 1959. On the other hand, Kilkenny were this year’s Leinster Champions after fighting off a strong Galway team in the final. Brian Cody’s side were the Championship runners-up in 2019. This year, he has an opportunity to go one better, but there is still a lot of work for the Cats to do.

Click for Live score commentary from Kilkenny v Waterford

Waterford overcame Clare in last weekend’s quarter-final by a healthy nine points. After an opening half of breathtaking hurling, Waterford were just three points ahead thanks to Jack Fagan’s goal just before the interval. That was their third major after Dessie Hutchinson had already netted two in a scintillating individual performance. Equally as important, Waterford were successful in quenching the flaming hot Tony Kelly who hit two from play despite injuring his ankle before the game.

After the break, Waterford’s squad depth proved instrumental as Cahill put faith in his subs to finish the job. Clare managed to go point-for-point with Waterford during the third quarter but never came within the three-point deficit. Then, when Waterford went seven ahead on 55 minutes, Clare responded with a goal. The Déise ship held firm however. The introduction of the Waterford reserves yielded no fewer than five scores. By full-time, Cahill had steered his team to a well-deserved victory.

Previously, Kilkenny qualified for the semi-final by beating Galway in the Leister Final. Before the game, Galway were widely tipped to advance after their commanding win over Wexford. In fact, for much of the Leinster final it looked as if the tipsters were going to be proved correct. By the 55th minute, the Galwegians were five up and going from strength to strength. Then lightning struck twice in 40 seconds as the Cats goaled twice for a six-point swing. Firstly, Richie Hogan lit up the Dark Dublin sky with one of the most skillful goals scored on a Hurling pitch. Then, from the very next play, the same man set up TJ Reid who buried it into the Galway net. From there, Kilkenny were on top and Galway never recovered.

That was Brian Cody’s 16th Leinster title but he hasn’t won an All-Ireland since 2015. Last year, they finished runners-up to Tipperary but were demolished in the final. After a sluggish start against Dubin this year, Cody’s experience has proved influential in this Kilkenny team’s improvement. There is no doubt he has his eyes firmly set on the final. But, Waterford will make him earn a place in the showdown.

Waterford’s win over Clare was a tremendous way to bounce back from defeat in the Munster final a week earlier. They have gone from strength to strength themselves this year and will be ready to take on the Kilkenny challenge on Saturday evening. The excitement of an All-Ireland semi-final is sure to quench the fatigue of three games in three weeks.

Regardless of how both sides enter this game, it is sure to be a fascinating watch. There has already been a lot of surprises this year and no one will rule out another.

The game is live on RTÉ as well as Sky Sports Mix.

Paddy Power are fancying Kilkenny to go through. The Leinster men are 4/6. In contrast, Waterford as 13/8 and a draw is 9/1.

Prediction: Kilkenny.

Teams

Kilkenny : Eoin Murphy; Conor Delaney, Huw Lawlor, Tommy Walsh; Padraig Walsh, Cillian Buckley, Paddy Deegan; Conor Browne, Conor Fogarty; John Donnelly, TJ Reid, Martin Keoghan; Billy Ryan, Richie Hogan, Eoin Cody.

Subs: Darren Brennan, Paul Murphy, Joey Holden, Ciaran Wallace, Richie Reid, Alan Murphy, Colin Fennelly, Walter Walsh, Liam Blanchfield, Ger Aylward, Niall Brassil.

Waterford : Stephen O’Keeffe; Ian Kenny, Conor Prunty, Shane McNulty; Calum Lyons, Tadhg De Burca, Kevin Moran; Jamie Barron, Jake Dillon; Jack Fagan, Kieran Bennett, Stephen Bennett; Dessie Hutchinson, Austin Gleeson, Jack Prendergast.

Subs: Billy Nolan, Peter Hogan, Mark O’Brien, Mikey Kearney, Patrick Curran, Colin Dunford, Conor Gleeson, Darragh Lyons, Neil Montgomery, Iarlaith Daly, Billy Power.

All-Ireland Hurling Championship Semi-Final: Kilkenny vs Waterford, Saturday, 28th November, 18:00 (Croke Park).

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Connacht V Ospreys postponed due to Covid-19 cases

It has been confirmed that Connacht V Ospreys postponed due to Covid-19 cases, the game was due to be played on Saturday 28th November.

One Ospreys player has returned a positive case of Covid-19 and others identified as close contacts are now isolating. Having considered all the available evidence, the PRO14 Rugby

Medical Advisory Group has deemed that this fixture cannot go ahead.

Benetton Rugby, who played against Ospreys on Sunday, carried out routine squad testing this week and returned negative results all round.

PRO14 Rugby will examine potential dates in early 2021 to reschedule the game.

Everyone at Connacht wishes the Ospreys player a speedy recovery and we look forward to welcoming them to The Sportsground early next year.

TV Highlights – Top 10 Sporting Events in December

Top 10 Sporting Events in December: A look into all the sporting events to keep you entertained over the next month and the festive period.

In what has been a tough year for everyone with Covid 19 so we are looking forward to lockdown finishing and enjoying December. A joyful and family orientated holiday that will cheer the population up to take minds off all that is going on.

With current restrictions and more pending come Christmas time indoors will be the safest for all. And for sports fans there will be plenty to dive into this Christmas. With plenty of sports such as football, golf, rugby, horse racing and many more all continuing on.

Lets take a look at the top 10 sporting events this Christmas period.

1 Football – The Premier League

Number one on our list is the worlds most exciting league in football, the English Premier League. The league has always historically continued to have games around the Christmas and New Year period.

Unfortunately for fans the games will likely remain behind closed doors despite popular vaccine news. There will be around 30 matches being shown on tv and streaming platforms from the 26th to 2nd of January.

See below the full list of Premier League fixtures for St Stephens Day will channels yet to be released. All kick offs will then be at 3pm.

Saturday December 26th Fixtures (All 3pm Kick Off)

Arsenal v Chelsea

Aston Villa v Crystal Palace

Fulham v Southampton

Leeds United v Burnley

Leicester City v Manchester United

Liverpool v West Bromwich Albion

Manchester City v Newcastle United

Sheffield United v Everton

West Ham United v Brighton

Wolverhampton v Tottenham Hotspur

Monday, December 28, 2020 (all 3pm kick-offs)

Brighton v Arsenal

Burnley v Sheffield United

Chelsea v Aston Villa

Crystal Palace v Leicester City

Everton v Manchester City

Manchester United v Wolverhampton

Newcastle United v Liverpool

Southampton v West Ham United

Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham

West Bromwich Albion v Leeds United

Saturday, January 2, 2021 (all 3pm kick-offs)

Brighton v Wolverhampton

Burnley v Fulham

Chelsea v Manchester City

Crystal Palace v Sheffield United

Everton v West Ham United

Manchester United v Aston Villa

Newcastle United v Leicester City

Southampton v Liverpool

Tottenham Hotspur v Leeds United

West Bromwich Albion v Arsenal

2 GAA – All Ireland Championships

Ranking at number two for GAA fans is the All Ireland Football and Hurling Championship finals. The Football final will take place on Saturday the 19th of at 5:00pm. The Hurling final will take place at 3:30pm on the 13th of December.

With semi finals of both championships still underway its undecided who will then be in the finals. In the football, Dublin, Cavan, Tipperary and Mayo are the semi finalists. Whilst over in the Hurling Kilkenny, Limerick, Galway and Waterford will all be in with a chance.

Both fixtures will be live on Sky Sports and RTE. However, the coverage times are to be announced.

Saturday 13th Of December – All Ireland Hurling Championship

Kilkenny/Waterford v Limerick/Galway – 3:30pm RTE/Sky Sports

Saturday 19th Of December – All Ireland Football Championship

Dublin/Cavan v Mayo/Tipperary – 5:00 pm RTE/Sky Sports

3 PDC World Darts Championship

Ranking in at number three during the Christmas period for darts fans is the PDC World Darts Championship. The annual tournament will begin this year from Friday the 18th of December to Monday the 4th of January.

Current reining champion Peter Wright be looking to retain the title this year. Unfortunately, the Alexandre Palace will be quiet this year with covid 19 without its usual rocking crowds.

The tournament will be then broadcast live on Sky Sports all through Christmas and then via live stream on PDC’s own site.

However times for the broadcast are pending an announcement.

Friday December 18th – Monday January 4th

2021 PDC World Darts Championship – Sky Sports / PDC Live stream

4 Boxing – Anthony Joshua versus Kubrat Pulev

Coming in at number four on the list is the long awaited fight between Anthony Joshua and Kubrat Pulev. Joshua is due to defend his WBA ‘super’ IBF and WBO belts against IBF against Kubrat Pulev this December.

Joshua battled hard last year to regain his titles after his rematch against Andy Ruiz Jr. However, The Englishman and current title holder can’t afford any slip ups against Pulev.

Although, If Joshua is to win it sets up a clash of titans of Joshua versus Fury next year. This would allow the winner to unify all belts and become the undisputed champion of the world.

The fight takes place in the O2 Arena on December 12th. The fight will be shown live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Sunday December 12th

Anthony Joshua versus Kubrat Pulev – Sky Sports Box Office

5. Rugby – Pro 14

Fifth on our list for Rugby fans is the rugby pro 14. The Pro 14 have recently announced their Christmas period fixtures this week. This coming after multiple games have been postponed and rescheduled.

However, with the new Christmas fixtures confirmed postponed matches from rounds 4 and 6 were then slotted in. These postponed games being the clashes of Connacht versus Benetton and Glasgow vs Dragons.

The biggest fixture of the Christmas period being Leinster taking on Munster on St Stephens Day.

Both TG4 and Premier Sports will be the flagship stations broadcasting most games during this time. See the full list of games for the festive period below.

Saturday, December 26 –

Zebre v Benetton Rugby, Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi, 2pm local time (live on DAZN/Premier Sports)

Dragons v Cardiff Blues, Rodney Parade, 3pm (live on S4C/Premier Sports)

Ospreys v Scarlets, Liberty Stadium, 5.15pm (live on Premier Sports)

Munster V Leinster, Thomond Park, 7.35pm (live on eir Sport)

Sunday, December 27 –

Glasgow Warriors v Edinburgh, Scotstoun Stadium, 3pm (live on Premier Sports)

Connacht V Ulster, the Sportsground, 7.35pm (live on TG4/Premier Sports/eir Sport)

Friday, January 1 –

Scarlets v Dragons, Parc y Scarlets, 5.15pm (live on S4C/Premier Sports)

Cardiff Blues v Ospreys, venue tbc, 7.35pm (live on Premier Sports)

Saturday, January 2 –

Benetton Rugby v Zebre, Stadio di Monigo, 2pm local time (live on DAZN/Premier Sports)

Edinburgh v Glasgow Warriors, BT Murrayfield, 3pm (live on Premier Sports)

Ulster V Munster, Kingspan Stadium, 5.15pm (live on Premier Sports/eir Sport)

Leinster V Connacht, the RDS, 7.35pm (live on eir Sport/Premier Sports)

6. Horse Racing – Leopardstown Christmas Festival

Sixth on our list is the annual horse racing event of the Leopardstown Christmas Festival. The big event will run for four days over the festive period. The glamorous event will run from the 26th to 29th of December.

Crowds will be desperately missed with the usual music, entertainment and the National Racing Hunt all gone as a result. However, during the cold days of winter gives fans can watch from the comfort of their homes.

The Festival features 7 Grade 1 races over the four days, including the Grade 1 Racing Post Novice Steeplechase on Thursday 26th December then The Paddy Power Steeplechase on Friday 27th December, The Grade 1 Savills Chase on Saturday 28th December and a Grade 1 Matheson Hurdle on Sunday 29th December.

RTE will be showing live coverage of this fabulous event. However,  times of coverage time are yet to be announced.

December Thursday 26th – Sunday 29th

First Race 12.00pm, Last Race 3.30pm – RTE/RTE Player

7 Formula 1 – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

At number seven on our list is the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix for all the motor heads to get into. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix looks to end the 2020 season 12 days before Christmas on the 13th of December.

However, with Covid 19 postponing some races this year it will then be the shortest finish to a season since 1963. The Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi could make a record breaking week for Englishman Lewis Hamilton.

He will be looking to be crowned official World Champion for a record 7th time tied with Michael Schumacher.

With recent news from England suggesting he will then receive a knighthood for his achievement having been recommended by Boris Johnson.

Saturday December 11th – Monday the 13th

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – Sky Sports F1 8:30pm.

8 Golf – European Tour DP Championship

The climax of the European Tour season reaches it’s conclusion with Race to Dubai in the World Tour DP Championship. However, Originally meant to be played back in November the event has since then pushed back to December due to covid.

The event boasts the biggest prize fund on the tour with an estimated 8.5 million in prize money. The event will take place from Thursday the 10th of December to Sunday the 13th. American Patrick Reed sits top of the Race to Dubai rankings on 2,200,883 million earned.

However, Sitting just behind him in close second is this years PGA Championship winner Collin Morikawa on 1,712,886 million.

It will be an exciting end to the golfing calendar year with Reed looking to win his first Race to Dubai.

The golf will then be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Golf. However, golf will start at an early time of 7:00am for early risers due to time difference.

Thursday December 10th – Sunday December 13th

DP World Championship – 8pm Sky Sports Main Event/ Sky Sports Golf 7:00AM

9 Cricket – Big Bash Australia

For anyone that has not watched Twenty20 or even Cricket, this tournament will get you interested. Great news for the cricket fans across the globe as the schedule and venues for Australia’s most-watched sporting competition, the Big Bash League (Dec 10, 2020-Feb 06, 2021) have been confirmed.

With over 60 high-octane matches, there will be no dearth of high-level cricket in Australia as all KFC BBL clubs will host matches in their local markets, however is subject to the public health situation. Australia currently has just around 2,000 active Covid-19 cases which has allowed cricket, both international and domestic, to go ahead.

The league, which has previously seen the inception of quirky additions like the bat flip and zing bails, has made quite a few changes this year as well.

Thursday December 10th – Saturday February 6th

Big Bash Australia – BT Sport

10 Snooker – World Grand Prix

Ranking in at number ten is the Snooker Grand Prix. The event ranks at eleventh highest in the Snooker calendar. The event will take place over six days from December 14th to the 20th of December.

This years event will mark the 7th edition of the competition with its first back in 2014/15.  World number 3 Australian Neil Robertson is the current champion, looking to defend his title.

The event will be then held in Milton Keynes with live television coverage from ITV 4. However, exact times in relation to the coverage has yet to be confirmed.

Tuesday December 14th – Monday the 20th

Snooker World Grand Prix – ITV 4

Read our other articles on everything Sport ,keeping you up to date at Sports News Ireland.

Click here for more.

Republic of Ireland in Pot 3 of UEFA draw for 2022 FIFA World Cup

Both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland will be in Pot 3 for the upcoming UEFA preliminary draw for FIFA World Cup 2022.

In Pot 3 with the Irish sides are Russia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Norway, Iceland, Scotland, Greece and Finland.

Belgium are the confirmed top seeds for the draw in Zurich on 7 December 2020 and will be in Pot 1. France, England, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Croatia, Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands are also in the top pot.

Wales, who recently played the Republic of Ireland in the UEFA Nations League competition, are in Pot 2. Alongside them are Switzerland, Poland, Sweden, Austria, Ukraine, Serbia, Turkey, Slovakia and Romania.

Fifty-five teams will be divided into five groups of five and five groups of six.

The qualifiers will be played on a home and away basis between March and November 2021.

Pots 1-6

1: Belgium, France, England, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Croatia, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands.

2: Switzerland, Wales, Poland, Sweden, Austria, Ukraine, Serbia, Turkey, Slovakia, Romania.

3: Russia, Hungary, Republic of Ireland, Czech Republic, Norway, Northern Ireland, Iceland, Scotland, Greece, Finland.

4: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Bulgaria, Israel, Belarus, Georgia, Luxembourg.

5: Armenia, Cyprus, Faroe Islands, Azerbaijan, Estonia, Kosovo, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Latvia, Andorra.

6: Malta, Moldova, Liechtenstein, Gibraltar, San Marino.

The Qualification Process

The winners of the 10 UEFA qualifying groups will qualify automatically for the finals in Qatar.

Another three places will be fought out between the 10 group runners-up and the two highest-ranked teams from the Nations League who have not already qualified or finished in a runners-up spot.

The 12 teams will be divided into three play-off paths, each featuring four countries, to determine the final three European places for Qatar.

Qatar will host the FIFA World Cup during November and December of 2022.

Dundalk’s Europa League qualification hopes dashed after loss to Rapid Wien

The Lilywhites have lost all of their Europa League group stage games so far.

Dundalk hosted Austrian side Rapid Wien tonight at the unfamiliar venue of the Aviva Stadium as they attempted to keep their Europa League hopes alive. Unfortunately, though, they suffered a 3-1 defeat meaning they won’t compete in the knockout stages.

Despite their disappointing group stage form, Dundalk can be proud of how they performed throughout the entirety of the campaign. The Louth side were never fancied, even in the qualifying rounds.

Their season leading up to qualification was nothing short of abysmal – by their standards. A culmination of poor domestic form and elimination from Champions League qualifying led to the sacking of Vinny Perth. Filippo Giovagnoli was chosen as his successor. Giovagnoli’s appointment raised plenty of eyebrows, mainly owing to his lack of appropriate experience.

So far, though, he has proved many of his doubters wrong. Under his guidance, the club qualified for the Europa League group stage for the first time since 2016. They also finished 3rd in the league and have progressed to the FAI Cup semi-finals.

Giovagnoli accomplished all this despite not holding a UEFA Pro License. His lack of qualifications meant he was forced to watch from the stands tonight. UEFA forbade the manager from entering the technical area, despite having done so in previous games. Instead, coach Shane Keegan took charge. The former Wexford Youths and Galway United manager is the only member of the Dundalk backroom staff with the necessary qualifications.

FIRST HALF

The match started at a high pace with both teams getting forward at will. It was Rapid Wien who took the lead in the 10th minute though after a misplaced pass from Seán Hoare. Christoph Knasmüllner intercepted the ball before unleashing a long-range drive into the top corner. A brilliant goal from the Austrian midfielder.

Dundalk very nearly caused further problems for themselves just minutes later with another misplaced pass. This time it was Chris Shields’ careless back-pass which was intercepted by Taxiarchis Fuentas. He then tested Gary Rogers in the Dundalk goal but the Meath native produced a good save this time around. Fuentas was causing problems in the early stages having missed the previous meeting between the two sides due to injury.

Dundalk’s first shot on goal came shortly after. Michael Duffy got a shot off from outside the box after good, progressive play from Dundalk. His shot was right under the throat of the keeper, however, and easily saved.

Rogers was called into action again in the 28th minute after a deflected free kick from Ercan Kara was heading into the net. Rogers got a good hand to the ball, though, which deflected out for a corner.

Rapid Wien scored their second of the night in the 36th minute after another brilliant goal. This time it was a brilliant team move as they easily retained possession before Ercan Kara latched onto a cross and finished with his head.

Stefan Čolović had the chance to reduce the deficit minutes after following a period of sustained pressure. Seán Hoare produced a cross which met the Serbian but he glanced his header wide.

Dundalk controlled much of the half thereafter, but couldn’t turn their dominant into any meaningful chances. Rapid Wien deservedly led 2-0 at the break.

SECOND HALF

The Dundalk manager, clearly not happy with his side’s first half performance, brought on 3 subs after the interval. Nathan Oduwa, Patrick McEleney and Daniel Kelly all came on in an attempt to rescue the game.

It didn’t take long for the substitutes to make an impact as Daniel Kelly won a penalty after some good work in the 48th minute. Nathan Oduwa stepped up to take the penalty but he shot wide after a casual run up. The Tottenham academy graduate won’t want to see any replays of the attempt.

Rapid Wien got their third of the night in the 57th minute. It was Ercan Kana with another spectacular goal. The striker made space for himself at the edge of the box before placing an accurate shot into the top corner.

Daniel Kelly had a chance to score himself at the edge of the box moments after. He was set up by Greg Slogett, his resulting shot went over the bar, however.

Nathan Oduwa made amends for his poor penalty as he was fouled inside the Rapid Wien box in the 61st minute. Chris Shields took the resulting penalty and made no mistake as he placed his shot into the left corner.

Rapid Wien had a handful of chances within the Dundalk box in the 76th minute but failed to convert. Sean Gannon blocked the first shot before Gary Rogers got a good hand on the rebound to keep the score at 3-1.

Nathan Oduwa had a fantastic chance in injury time to get one back for Dundalk. Michael Duffy went on a great run before crossing low into the feet of Oduwa but he then blasted over the bar.

The score finished 3-1 to Rapid Wien with Dundalk eliminated from the knockout stages. Dundalk travel to Norway next week as they take on Molde in their penultimate Europa League fixture.

Dundalk starting XI: Gary Rogers, Seán Hoare (Daniel Kelly 45′), Andy Boyle, Daniel Cleary, Sean Gannon, Chris Shields, Greg Sloggett (Sean Murray 71′), Cameron Dummigan (Darragh Leahy 80′), Stefan Čolović (Patrick McEleney 45′), David McMillan (Nathan Oduwa 45′), Michael Duffy.
Rapid Wien starting XI: Paul Gartler, Filip Stojković, Maximilian Hofmann, Mateo Barać, Maximilian Ullmann, Christoph Knasmüllner (Yusuf Demir 80′), Srđan Grahovac, Thorsten Schick, Taxiarchis Fountas (Lion Schuster 66′), Melih Ibrahimoglu (Kelvin Arase 54′), Ercan Kara (Koya Kitagawa 66′).

Where to watch the Premier League this Christmas

Live Premier League on this Christmas

Saturday 19th – Monday 21st December.

  • Crystal Palace vs Liverpool – 19 Dec, 12.30pm on BT Sport
  • Southampton vs Man City – 19 Dec, 3pm on Amazon
  • Everton vs Arsenal – 19 Dec, 5.30pm on Sky Sports
  • Newcastle Utd vs Fulham – 19 Dec, 8pm on Sky Sports
  • Brighton vs Sheffield Utd – 20 Dec, 12pm on Sky Sports
  • Tottenham vs Leicester City – 20 Dec, 2.15pm on Sky Sports
  • Man Utd vs Leeds Utd – 20 Dec, 4.30pm on Sky Sports
  • West Brom vs Aston Villa – 20 Dec, 7.15pm on BT Sport
  • Burnley vs Wolves – 21 Dec, 5.30pm on Sky Sports
  • Chelsea vs West Ham – 21 Dec, 8pm on Sky Sports

 

Saturday 26th – Sunday 27th December

  • Leicester City vs Man Utd – 26 Dec, 12.30pm on BT Sport
  • Aston Villa vs Crystal Palace – 26 Dec, 3pm on BBC
  • Fulham vs Southampton – 26 Dec, 3pm on Sky Sports
  • Arsenal vs Chelsea – 26 Dec, 5.30pm on Sky Sports
  • Man City vs Newcastle Utd – 26 Dec, 8pm on BT Sport
  • Sheffield Utd vs Everton – 26 Dec, 8pm on BT Sport
  • Leeds Utd vs Burnley – 27 Dec, 12pm on Sky Sports
  • West Ham vs Brighton – 27 Dec, 2.15pm on Sky Sports
  • Liverpool vs West Brom – 27 Dec, 4.30pm on Sky Sports
  • Wolves vs Tottenham – 27 Dec, 7.15pm on Sky Sports

 

Monday 28th -Wednesday 30th December (All on Amazon).

  • Crystal Palace vs Leicester City – 28 Dec, 3pm
  • Chelsea vs Aston Villa – 28 Dec, 5.30pm
  • Everton vs Man City – 28 Dec, 8pm
  • Southampton vs West Ham – 29 Dec, 6pm
  • Brighton vs Arsenal – 29 Dec, 6pm
  • West Brom vs Leeds Utd – 29 Dec, 6pm
  • Burnley vs Sheffield Utd – 29 Dec, 6pm
  • Man Utd vs Wolves – 29 Dec, 8pm
  • Tottenham vs Fulham – 30 Dec, 6pm
  • Newcastle Utd vs Liverpool – 30 Dec, 8pm

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