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Drogheda United clinch Irish First Division title after last day drama

They will now play in the Irish Premier Division for the 2021 season

All ten teams kicked off at the same time tonight to draw the 2020 First Division season to a close. There was no lack of drama as there was plenty at stake, particularly for clubs at the top half of the division.

Drogheda vs. Cabinteely

Drogheda took on Cabinteely at Stradbrook Road in one of tonight’s most decisive fixtures. There was far-reaching implications for both teams based on the result. Drogheda ran out winners which ultimately meant they claimed the league title and automatic promotion to the Premier Division. Goals from James Brown and Luke Heeney ensured their victory. On the other side of things, Cabinteely missed out on a promotion play-off place as a result of their defeat at the hands of Drogheda and fixtures elsewhere. Both teams met last season in the promotion/relegation play-off semi-final. Like tonight, Drogheda came out on top as they ran away with a 6-2 aggregate win before they lost to Finn Harps in the final. Losing a play-off final can be demoralising for any team but Drogheda showed their heart and determination throughout the season. They battled for promotion until the penultimate day of the season where they made their dreams a reality.

Bray Wanderers vs. Athlone Town

Bray Wanderers managed to pick up a victory against Athlone, but they’ll be disappointed after Drogheda picked up a result. Before the match, one point separated 2nd placed Bray from Drogheda. That remains the same after tonight as both teams managed to win. If Drogheda had lost – or even drew – against Cabinteely, Bray would be celebrating promotion to the Premier Division tonight. Unfortunately for them, that was not the case. Their season is far from over yet, though. Finishing 2nd means they await a play-off semi-final against the winners of the play-off quarter finals. If they can come out of the semi-final with a win, they’ll then face the 2nd team from last in the Premier Division to determine if they go up or stay down.

Elsewhere in the division, there were no less than five teams battling for a promotion play-off place. The teams in question were; UCD, Longford Town, Cabinteely, Galway United and Cobh Ramblers. As mentioned previously, Cabinteely missed out on a spot due to their result against Drogheda.

Longford Town vs. Wexford FC

Longford Town were in the most enviable position prior to kick off as they took on league strugglers Wexford FC. Wexford picked up just 5 points all season before tonight. However, in a shock result Wexford managed to defeat Longford by 2-1. Goals from Karl Fitzsimmons and former Longford man Jack Doherty secured a win for Wexford. Despite their loss, Longford still managed to secure a play-off spot due to UCD’s draw against Galway. This is the second year in a row that Longford have reached the play-offs after tonight. Last season they were cruelly knocked out on penalties at the hands of Cabinteely. They’ll be anticipating they can get further than the quarter finals this time. Although, they’re going to have to put in a better performance than they did tonight if they wish to do so.

UCD vs. Galway United

UCD could only manage a draw at Eamonn Deacy Park against fellow play-off chasers Galway United, but it would be enough for them to clinch a play-off spot. UCD were 3 points ahead of Galway and Cobh Ramblers pre match, meaning a draw would be sufficient as long as either Longford or Cabinteely drew or lost. They just about managed a draw in the end as Galway were leading until the 81st minute when UCD pulled one back. They would score a further goal in the 89th minute before Galway drew level again in the 93rd minute from a 30-yard Shane Duggan screamer. Galway will be cursing their luck as they had a play-off spot secured until the 81st minute, but they needed to win the game in order to have any chance of getting a play-off spot. UCD will now face Longford Town in the play-off quarter finals in their next fixture. They were relegated from the Premier Division last season so they’ll be hoping they can right their wrongs and gain promotion back to the division at the first time of asking.

Cobh Ramblers vs. Shamrock Rovers II

Cobh Ramblers played Shamrock Rovers II in what was the least dramatic match of the night. Cobh Ramblers still had a *slim* chance of promotion before the match but they failed to capitalize as they played out a 0-0 draw. Good result for Shamrock Rovers II as they fielded several young players including Kevin Zefi (15) and Sam Curtis (14).

Drogheda United can look forward to playing in the Premier Division next season. Longford, UCD and Bray, on the other hand, will be planning for their upcoming play-off games.

Longford and UCD will play each other first and the winner of that game will play Bray in the play-off semi-final. The victor of the semi-final will be involved in a relegation/promotion play-off final against the 2nd last team in the Premier Division – which is yet to be decided.

How teams are treating the advanced mark

The introduction of the advanced mark to Gaelic football at the start of 2020 was a polarising one. Purists argued that it would make the game too defensive and that teams would condense their own ’45 to stop forwards catching the ball cleanly. The opposing view argued that it would re-introduce the kick-pass to a game where running the ball had become the popular option.

Obviously, there were pros and cons to the rule. For example, teams with taller players were at an obvious aerial advantage. But, to counter the argument that teams were going to adopt defensive set-ups, kick-passing often moves the ball too quickly for teams to get enough bodies back into their ’45.

Old Habits Die Hard

However, since its introduction, the advanced mark has been used less frequently than one may have expected. Instead, the running game that has been drilled into many teams is proving hard to shake. Even when the ball does get kicked, forwards often elect to run it rather than take on the mark.

For example, in the return of the National League Donegal played Tyrone. In the first-half, Donegal talisman Michael Murphy collected a kick-pass on the ’21 on the right-hand side of the pitch. Instead of claiming the mark and taking a free (note that Murphy is Donegal’s primary free-taker), he carried on and shook off his marker to kick a lovely left-footed score. But, had he missed that chance his decision not to take the mark would have been criticised.

Over time it may become a case that the mark is the go-to for forwards. Meanwhile, it seems like old habits die hard. In the final round of the National League last weekend, only five scores were kicked from marks in the four Division 1 games. Tyrone’s win over Mayo was a game that yielded no scores as a result of marked balls.

In addition to this, Tyrone’s second goal in that game is evidence of how the new rule is not affecting the game negatively. Just before half-time, Tyrone’s Conor McKenna picked up the ball around halfway. Then, he kicked a Connelly-esque ball inside to Dara Canavan. Mayo’s Oisin Mullin was the defender responsible for Canavan and to his credit Mullin did nothing wrong. He was marking in front and to the wingside of his man. But, such was the accuracy of the ball that it landed on Canavan’s chest. As a result, the Tyrone forward was goalside of his man. Using his pace, Canavan opted to run the ball and ended up finding the net.

Of course, he could have graced the pass with a mark. But, some kick passes deserve more than a point.

Will the Mark alter tactics?

As a result, the advanced mark is having the desired effect of encouraging more kick-passes. Thus far, forwards are only giving it a second-thought after first looking to play on.

This could bridge the gap between weaker and stronger teams. If weaker teams can use the rule effectively, they can pick off points against stronger opposition when forwards may be isolated inside.

On the other hand, we could see the use of sweepers re-introduced. Otherwise, teams will have to pressurise their opposition much higher up the pitch. This type of game would make the middle-third a much more competitive battleground.

A faster game as a result of increased kick-passing would be an improvement in many eyes. This could come with its own downsides though. For example, if a ball moves the length of the pitch in two passes will the referee be close enough to the action to make accurate decisions? This could result in the GAA mimicking the AFL and using multiple referees.

The rule is still in its infancy. Therefore, the teething problems are following it (Aidan O’Shea’s misunderstanding of the rule last weekend is one example). With the Championship about the commence though, we will see the rule have its true effect.

Championship football differs from League in that teams will do what it takes to win. Hence, exploitation of the advanced mark could be incoming. But, for now the evidence has been promising. In the coming weeks, it will be of great interest to see how teams utilise the prompt to kick the ball.

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Greenwatch: A Brace for Alan Browne

Premier League

Firstly to Anfield where John Egan and co failed, despite their best efforts, to hang onto the draw as Sheffield United narrowly lost to champions Liverpool. Egan and fellow international Enda Stevens had a front four of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, Diogo Jota and Mohamed Salah to contest with. After taking an early lead, the Blades went home with nothing to show for in spite of Egan’s best efforts.

At the Amex Stadium on Monday night, West Bromwich Albion grabbed a late equaliser against Brighton Hove Albion. Callum Robinson came off the bench to set up Karlan Grant for his first goal for the Baggies. Dara O’Shea missed the game with a suspected ankle injury.

Championship

Both James McClean and Alan Browne made the Whoscored.com ‘Team of the Week’. Michael O’Neill’s Stoke City team gained all three points after an impressive performance against Brentford. James McClean put in a man of the match display with a goal and assist as his team won 3-2. At the back, Nathan Collins continued his run in the team. He will have one eye on the Irish senior squad as we head towards the World Cup qualifiers next year.

Preston North End also enjoyed a successful Saturday afternoon thanks to an Alan Browne brace. Browne’s performance against Slovakia in Ireland’s play-off game drew some criticism after he missed a couple of crucial chances. Two goals for the Irishman was the perfect way to respond to the critics. His first goal was a well-placed finish into the corner of the net, his second a cheeky dink over the keeper with his back to goal.

Elsewhere in the Championship, Adam Idah saw red in Norwich City’s 2-1 win over Wycombe Wanderers. Blackburn Rovers thrashed Coventry City 4-0 as Irish pair Darragh Lenihan and Derrick Williams claimed a clean sheet. Williams in particular has impressed his manager Tony Mowbray so far this season.

Munster maintain unbeaten start to season with 38-27 win over Blues

Munster Rugby maintained their unbeaten start to the Guinness Pro14 season with a 38-27 win over Cardiff Blues in Limerick.

Monday night’s clash of two unbeaten teams saw the visitors ahead within two minutes of the game starting. Slopping defending from Munster saw Lee-Lo touch down behind the posts, giving Jarrod Evans an easy conversion.

Gavin Coombes soon replied for Johann van Graan’s side, as the Corkman scored the first of his brace of tries. Two conversions and a penalty from Ben Healy as well as two Evans penalties in the opening half, saw Munster lead 17-13 at the break.

A try-fest following after the interval. Munster scored three tries and Cardiff two within 27 minutes of half-time. It was Kevin O’Byrne who crossed first for the southern province in the 51st minute.

Cardiff response

Each time Munster scored, Cardiff seemed to immediately reply. Aled Summerhill scored a five-pointer for the Blues. Then player of the match Jack O’Donoghue touched down for the bonus-point try for the men in red.

A Cardiff reply came through Willis Halaholo, who had been yellow-carded in the first forty minutes. Replacement JJ Hanrahan soon scored the try of the evening, with some excellent handling from replacements Rhys Marshall and Damian De Allende in the build up to the score.

Two conversions a piece from kickers Healy and Evans in the second half, were added to by Hanrahan when converting his own try.

Munster Rugby wrapped up a bonus-point winning game on a 38-27 scoreline in an entertaining free-flowing Monday night game.

Conference leaders on 13 points

The men in red now sit top of Conference B with 13 points from three games, four points ahead of Cardiff Blues and Connacht Rugby who are both on 9 points each.

Johann van Graan’s men are on the road next weekend as they travel to Rodney Parade to face Dragons in Round 4 on Sunday.

Could Mayo’s relegation be a blessing in disguise?

For the first time in 23 years Mayo find themselves in Division 2 of the National Football League. A one-point defeat to Tyrone last weekend condemned them to the second tier after a spirited fight to stay up. Previously, Mayo had beaten Galway by a record score to give themselves a chance of survival. As a result, it was somewhat surprising to see Tyrone eight-points up at half-time. Despite threatening a comeback for the rest of the game, James Horan’s side came up short to finish 7th in the table. But, the Mayo side is very much a team in transition. Therefore, Mayo’s relegation to Division 2 may prove to be a blessing in disguise.

The Mayo team of the 2010s is arguably the best team to never actually win an All-Ireland. Defeats in the 2012, ’13, ’16, and ’17 finals have meant the Sam Maguire has still not entered Mayo since 1951. Furthermore, they reached semi-finals in 2011, ’14, ’15, and ’19.

Yes, many of the key figures of that decade are still in or around the Mayo squad. But, they are not the young, promising, sprightly footballers they were when they first arrived on the scene. For example, Cillian O’Connor won Young Footballer of the Year for the first time in 2011. That is now almost ten years ago.

Likewise, Aidan O’Shea made his senior debut in 2009 and is entering his thirties.

2020 will be the first year that Mayo enter a Championship without Andy Moran since 2004. Furthermore, the likes of Donal Vaughan, Keith Higgins, Seamus O’Shea, Tom Parsons, and Colm Boyle have seen their game time reduce in recent seasons. In addition to this, these veterans have begun to accumulate more injuries than ever before.

Even Lee Keegan is in his thirties now. It seems like an age ago that his battles with Diarmuid Connolly were unfolding in the Croke Park arena. Recently, the marauding half-back has been deployed in the full-back line as Mayo’s key man-marker.

As a result, the time for Mayo to introduce some new blood has long past. Unfortunately, this year’s sprint-like Championship has meant Horan may have to rely on his tried and tested members. But, when Division 2 rolls around next season, Mayo can finally inject new life into their team. This is why Mayo’s relegation could turn out to be of benefit.

The Up-and-Coming

Despite Mayo’s relegation, they very nearly clung onto Division 1 status. This was largely thanks to some of the younger players James Horan put his trust in.

Against Galway, Mark Moran took the plaudits for his performance at centre-forward. Then, it was Tommy Conroy who drove the charge against Tyrone. In addition to this, Eoghan McLoughlin of Westport put in two big displays in the half-back line and Oisin Mullin’s runs from corner-back were almost unstoppable at times.

These four examples are all players who are under 22 years old. This just shows that there is a pool of talent coming through the ranks in Mayo. Furthermore, David McBrien and Paul Towey are two more U20 players that have already earned senior debuts.

Before the lockdown, Belmullet’s Ryan O’Donoghue had been the one to turn heads and did so again in just 20 minutes against Galway.

If these youngsters continue to develop in the manner they have demonstrated, they will be valuable assets to the Mayo team and could launch the return to an All-Ireland showdown.

All of this is not to say no player has broken into the side in recent years. To illustrate, Paddy Durcan has nailed down one of the half-back spots and become one of the best players in the country on his day.

Similarly, Cillian O’Connor’s brother Diarmuid brought his U-21 form straight to senior and has never looked back.

Other examples of players to come to the fore in recent years are Stephen Coen and Matthew Ruane. This duo were the midfield pairing when Mayo won the U21 All-Ireland in 2016. However, it is only now that it seems like either is on course for an extended run in the team.

On the other hand, many have failed to kick-on from initial runs in the senior teams. For young footballers, one of the hardest things to do is maintain form. Just ask any of James Carr, Conor Loftus, Fionn McDonagh, Fergal Boland, or Eoin O’Donoghue.

With that in mind, the prospect of playing Division 2 football is one that Mayo should embrace. Now, this is not to undermine Division 2 by any means. Instead, it should be taken by the Mayo contingent as a good level at which to filter players into their senior team.

The competition Mayo will face in Division 2 is not to be scoffed at. In fact, it will require seven good performances to ensure promotion. On the other hand, it can a very slippery slope in the other direction.

But, these League games will be a chance for Mayo’s youngsters to make their mark and ease the transition. In Division 1 it is much harder for youngsters to do so. For example, Mark Moran introduced himself with a man of the match performance against Galway. However, when he was given special attention from Tyrone, he was anonymous.

In conclusion, Mayo’s relegation is far from the be-all and end-all. In contrast, it could prove to be a blessing in disguise. James Horan has a nicely balanced squad at his disposal. If he uses the next six months wisely, he could have Mayo’s next generation of title challengers.

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Pressure mounts on Celtic and Neil Lennon

Aberdeen 3-3 Celtic

It has been a week to forget for Neil Lennon and his Celtic side. A brace from Connor Goldson ensured Rangers took all three points in last weekend’s Glasgow derby. Then came a 3-1 defeat to AC Milan in a midweek Europa League clash. Celtic needed a win against Aberdeen on Sunday. With no sign of Rangers slowing down, the pressure was on Lennon’s men to pick up a win. Aberdeen’s Lewis Ferguson didn’t get the memo however, as he converted a 92nd minute penalty to tie the game.

A few eyebrows were raised when Neil Lennon took over from Brendan Rodgers back in 2019. Yet the Northern Irishman’s managerial record during his first stint at Celtic Park boasted some impressive numbers, including two Scottish Premiership titles, two Scottish Cup trophies and 70% win record. Despite his success, it was always going to be an underwhelming appointment in the eyes of Celtic fans regardless of who next sat in the hot seat. Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic team were a machine.

Ten in a Row

In any other season and in any other league, Celtic’s form would not be worthy of a paragraph in the sports section of the newspaper, let alone the main headline on the front page. But this is no ordinary season. Celtic are on track for ten in a row in terms of league titles. They are so close they can almost taste it.

It may be no coincidence that Celtic’s ‘week to forget’ coincides with start striker Odsonne Edouard’s absence due to a positive COVID-19 result. The defence took the brunt of the blame after the draw against Aberdeen as Lennon alluded to their “fragility”. Moreover, this form may simply resemble a small bump in the road to ten in a row. This time it feels different though. Take for instance the 2016/17 season under Rodgers. Celtic strolled through the campaign, remaining unbeaten and gathering a record 106 points along the way. Rangers were nowhere to be seen.

After two full seasons under his belt, Steven Gerrard is now in a strong position to put a halt to any premature celebrations from Celtic fans. His Rangers side are the only team to remain unbeaten across all top four divisions in England and Scotland. Their eyes are firmly set on the SPL title.

Celtic currently sit in second place, six points behind Rangers with a game in hand. With over half of the season still to play, a lot can happen. One thing we do know is that the pressure on Celtic and Neil Lennon won’t ease. Forget what titles are already on display in the trophy cabinet. This season’s league title has the potential to trump them all.

Munster Rugby v Cardiff Blues – kick-off 8.15pm – Live on TG4 and eir sport

Munster Rugby host Cardiff Blues tonight at Thomond Park in Conference B of the Guinness Pro14. The two unbeaten sides meet in the first non-Christmas/New Year Monday night rugby game in the championship with live coverage on TG4 and eir sport.

Munster won the last two meetings against the Blues and will hope to maintain that good recent record tonight. Johann van Graan has made nine changes to the side that defeated Edinburgh 25-23 in Limerick in Round 2.

Billy Holland will make his seasonal appearance for this Round 3 clash with the Corkman captaining the team. Holland will be partnered in the second row by Fineen Wycherley as Munster aim to maintain their unbeaten start to the season.

A new-look front row sees James Cronin, Kevin O’Byrne and Stephen Archer named by the South African-born Head Coach.

Munster Rugby Academy player John Hodnett is chosen at openside with Gavin Coombes named at number eight. Waterford’s Jack O’Donoghue remains on the blindside flank.

Recent Munster hero Ben Healy named

Craig Casey and Munster Rugby Academy out half Ben Healy remain as the half back pairing. Healy has been the hero in both of Munster’s games this season. Firstly, his late kick gave the southern province a 30-27 win over the Scarlets in Round 1. Then, he converted CJ Stander’s late try against Edinburgh in their Round 2 clash.

Dan Goggin is named in midfield alongside Rory Scannell. Darren Sweetnam and Calvin Nash are chosen on the wings, with Mike Haley named at fullback.

In the replacements, Munster Rugby Academy prop Josh Wycherley, younger brother of Fineen, looks set to make his senior debut. He is joined on the bench by the experience of Rhys Marshall, Jean Kleyn, Chris Cloete and JJ Hanrahan amongst others.

Munster Rugby team:
15. Mike Haley, 14. Calvin Nash, 13. Dan Goggin, 12. Rory Scannell, 11. Darren Sweetnam, 10. Ben Healy, 9. Craig Casey.

1. James Cronin, 2. Kevin O’Byrne, 3. Stephen Archer, 4. Fineen Wycherley, 5. Billy Holland (captain), 6. Jack O’Donoghue, 7. John Hodnett, 8. Gavin Coombes.

Munster Rugby replacements:
16. Rhys Marshall, 17. Josh Wycherley, 18. Roman Salanoa, 19. Jean Kleyn, 20. Chris Cloete, 21. Nick McCarthy, 22. JJ Hanrahan, 23. Damian de Allende.

Players not considered for selection

Peter O’Mahony wasn’t considered for the game as he was involved in Ireland’s win over Italy on Saturday. Joey Carbery continues to suffer from an ankle injury. Neil Cronin and Keith Earls miss out with knee and back problems respectively.

Speaking ahead of tonight’s game, Munster Rugby Senior Coach Stephen Larkham said:

“If you look at our run of games coming up, this will be our best preparation for a while. We’ll have 16 games in a row now. We had a couple of days off last week and had really good prep for this as we had a proper seven-day turnaround.

“It’s all part of the environment that we live in now, and adapting to different situations.”

The game kicks off at 8.15pm, with TV coverage beginning on eir sport at 7.45pm and TG4 at 7.50pm.

Premier League: Vardy scores as Arsenal slump to defeat against Leicester

Vardy has scored more goals against Arsenal than he has any other Premier League team

Arsenal played Leicester at the Emirates in today’s late fixture. In the end, it was Leicester who emerged victorious as Arsenal failed to capitalize on their earlier chances.

Arsenal were at an advantage before the match had even kicked off. Leicester’s talisman striker Jamie Vardy was only named on the bench due to fitness concerns. They failed to make the advantage count, though, as Vardy came on as a substitute to haunt them. Out of all the clubs Vardy has faced in the Premier League, he’s netted the most goals against Arsenal. In total, he’s scored 11 times in just 12 games against them after his goal tonight.

In terms of Arsenal team news, Thomas Partey received his first Premier League start tonight. He played well midweek against Rapid Wein but failed to get involved in the match today and had very few touches compared to others. Thomas Partey had faced Leicester prior to the match, appearing as a sub against them in the 2016/17 Champions League season – a match which Leicester would go on to lose.

The first opportunity of the match didn’t take long to come by. James Maddison attempted a lob from distance just 1 minute in as Leno swept up from outside his box before reaching Maddison’s feet. Unfortunately for him though, his shot narrowly missed the target. It would have been one of the goals of the season if it had gone in.

In the 3rd minute, Arsenal had the ball in the net and celebrations began. They wouldn’t last long as VAR then disallowed the goal. They adjudged that an offside Arsenal player had touched the ball on the way into the net, deeming the goal void.

10 minutes in and David Luiz produced a brilliant through ball in behind the Leicester defence which Hector Bellerin ran onto. Johnny Evans did well though, the Northern Irishman closed down the space quickly and produced a superb block to alleviate the goalkeeper’s worries.

A series of half chances for Arsenal followed until the 28th minute. Another exceptional crossfield ball by David Luiz went over the head of the Leicester defender before landing at the feet of Kieran Tierney. Tierney then took the ball inside the box before whipping a cross across the six-yard box. Alexandre Lacazette was there but it skimmed off him as he failed to connect properly, and went wide of the net.

32 minutes in and there was a bad challenge from Christian Fuchs on Alexandre Lacazette. Just a booking though, nothing more severe. Although, it could have easily been a red on another day. Fuchs can count himself lucky.

Other than that, Arsenal had a couple more half chances in a first half which they largely dominated. Leicester failed to get going as Arsenal controlled the vast majority of possession and squandered Leicester attacking moves. Brendan Rodgers would not have been happy with his team’s first half display.

David Luiz was forced off with injury just 3 minutes into the second half and replaced by Shkodran Mustafi. This would have disappointed Arsenal fans as he was the unlikely creative outlet for Arsenal during the first half.

Maddison once again attempted an extravagant shot in the 53rd minute. This time, he shot from within his own half. Leno was comfortable though as he gathered easily. Just moments later, Maddison had another opportunity from just outside the box, his shot was blocked and went out for a corner. He took the resulting corner, but it was cleared on the first attempt by Arsenal before Lacazette gave away a free kick from outside the box. Maddison was the taker again but his shot sailed over the bar. After a quiet first half, Maddison was getting more and more involved in the second.

The moment many Leicester fans would have been waiting for occurred in the 59th minute as Jamie Vardy came on to replace Dennis Praet. Leicester would have to increase their creative output if Vardy was to have any chance of scoring though. They relied on half chances up to his substitution and failed to get a shot on target.

Hector Bellerin, who was already on a yellow card, mistimed his challenge on James Justin completely in the 60th minute. Like Fuchs, he could count himself lucky to still be on the pitch.

Arsenal made their second change of the game in the 64th minute as Nicolas Pepe replaced Bukayo Saka. Saka picked up a knock earlier in the half so that was likely a factor in his substitution.

67 minutes in and Arsenal fashioned their first opportunity of the second half. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang drove to the byline before crossing to Bellerin who connected on the volley but his shot was straight at Kasper Schmeichel. A wasted opportunity.

Leicester made their 2nd substitution of the night as Harvey Barnes was taken off for new signing Cengiz Under in the 74th minute. Barnes had failed to make impact on the match so it was only a matter of time before he was subbed, really.

Although Arsenal had controlled much of the match, Leicester broke on 79 minutes and completely exposed the Arsenal backline. Two subs were involved as Under crossed into the path of who else but Jamie Vardy, who scored his 11th goal against Arsenal. It wasn’t the hardest finish of his career as he headed into an open net, but he’ll take it nonetheless.

Just after the goal, Tierney came off as he was replaced by Eddie Nketiah. Tierney was arguably Arsenal’s best player, but his dangerous crosses failed to lead to a goal. Arsenal had to chase the game after the goal so that’s likely one of the reasons as to why Tierney was taken off for a striker.

Leicester’s 3rd and final substitution came in the 84th minute as James Maddison was replaced by Marc Albrighton, who played a key role in their Premier League winning campaign.

There was 5 minutes of extra time but Arsenal failed to take advantage as Leicester held onto the win.

Arsenal XI: Leno; Bellerin, Luiz (Mustafi 48′), Gabriel, Tierney (Nketiah 80′); Ceballos, Xhaka, Partey, Saka (Pepe 64′), Lacazette, Aubameyang

Leicester XI: Schmeichel; Fofana, Evans, Fuchs, Castagne; Mendy, Praet (Vardy 59′), Justin, Tielemans, Barnes (Under 74′), Maddison (Albrighton 84′)

San Francisco 49ers @ New England Patriots – Preview and Fantasy Predictions

The 2-3 New England Patriots play hosts to last year’s SuperBowl runner ups San Francisco 49er. As their records suggest, both teams have struggled to find the kind of consistency they would have wanted early this season and neither have been helped by key injuries and other personnel issues. This is an important game for 2 teams who are still no doubt harbouring ambitions of making the playoffs. Can the offensive creativity of Kyle Shanahan overcome the defensive genius of Bill Belichick?

Betpat Betting:
Money line: 49ers 11/8 Patriots 6/10
Points Spread: Patriots -3
Over/Under: 45

Again, nothing stands out to me there. If the SF run game can find their rhythm this could be a higher scoring game than many people would predict. Both teams to score a TD and FG in each half is an interesting one at 22/1



Fantasy Football:
49ers:
If you do a quick scroll through the 49ers depth chart, the name that stands out for fantasy players is that of George Kittle. The big Tight End is almost unplayable at times and has the ability to tear defences apart with his combination of size, speed and aggression. He does however face a Patriot defense who have built their names on being experts at shutting down team’s primary weapons. So, handle with care.

While Deebo Samuel returned week 4 against the Eagles, fantasy owners didn’t see any real return on their investment until last week. His chances of making further impact this week will be seriously hampered by the fact that when he lines up, he will most likely be starring at reigning defensive MVP Stephon Gilmore across from him. Rookie Brandon Aiyuk may provide the biggest  chance of fantasy points amongst the Niners receivers, especially if they get him involved in the run game.

At running back, the 49ers usually prefer a committee approach but Raheem Mostert remains out and Jeff Wilson is questionable so Jerick McKinnon and JaMycal Hasty will provide the threat on the ground. The versatility of McKinnon in particular could be a valuable weapon if they are to unlock the Pats defense. A banged up offensive line doesn’t do their cause any favours however.

Patriots:
The Patriots also prefer a more committee-based backfield but, unlike San Fran, they have their full compliment of backs available. You will see receiver Julien Edelman’s name listed as questionable for the game but don’t buy too much into that, he is fully expected to play without any hinderance. The bigger question is whether QB Cam Newton can feed him enough.

Cam’s form has been fairly inconsistent so far this year. Most of his most telling work comes on the ground, running for 5 TD’s so far this year while he has only thrown 2. Expect a heavy dose of read option to keep the 49ers defense on their toes.

The biggest fantasy asset the Patriots have may be that defense. Despite suffering from a list of big-name injuries, covid opt-outs and offseason departures that would cripple most defences, they have remained one of the leagues better ones. 


My Prediction:
This game is a nightmare to predict. The form of both teams has been erratic for various reasons and they both have the ability to be produce big performances when logic would dictate that they would struggle. While the physical battle will go a long way to deciding the Steelers and Titans game, tactical warfare comes to the fore in this contest. And it’s hard to bet against the old master Bill Belichick in that regard.

Patriots by 9

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Tennessee Titans – Preview Predictions & Fantasy advice

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Tennessee Titans – Preview Predictions & Fantasy advice, game kicks off at 5pm on Sunday evening.

Someone’s ‘O’ is gonna go. The Sunday slate of games for Week 7 kicks off in style on Sky as 2 undefeated sides go head to head. The clash of Tennessee’s high-powered run game led by “King” Derrick Henry and the rock-solid Pittsburgh run defense in a game within a game in itself. If either team can get the upper hand in that battle, they will feel very optimistic about coming away with their unblemished record intact. Elsewhere both teams are in the top 5 in the league in turnover differential, with the Steelers at 4th and the Titans topping the league outright. Expect an extremely physical affair and neither side will be too willing to concede any ground to the other in that respect.


PP Betting:
Money line: Steelers EVNS Titans 5/6
Points Spread: Titans -1.5
Over/Under: 50.5

The best value I can find are the HT/FT bets with PIT/TEN at 7/1 and TEN/PIT at 15/2. Other odds that stoked my interest are 11/2 for Henry to get a TD in each half and 6/1 for both Jonnu Smith and Chase Claypool to score TD’s.

Fantasy Football:
Steelers:
The Steelers defense is ranked 4th in fantasy so far this year but, as already mentioned, they face the toughest game they have had yet in the Titans offense. Not only is Henry a threat but they balance it out with a very competent pass game, especially when they can count on play action. But the 8 interceptions they have amassed is tied for 2nd in the NFL. I’d be cautiously optimistic about the Steelers D here, albeit being mindful of the fear that Henry could wreak havoc.

On offense, the story of the early part of the season for the Steelers has been the emergence of Chase Claypool as a big playmaker. He has formed a great partnership with Juju Smith-Schuster and against the Titans secondary, who while being 2nd in Points allowed per game also rank 28th in passing yards allowed, could be up for continuing the good form, which also helps Big Ben’s value too.

James Conner is someone I have a hard time putting my faith in, and I just can’t honestly put my finger on why, it may just be sheer stubbornness at this point. As much as I’d love to tell you he will put up big numbers, I can never quite convince myself of it first. Conner fans will tell you he has already racked up 2 20+ points weeks this year and generally scores overall. So, take that for what it’s worth.

Titans:
Can Derrick henry continue his path of destruction against a ferocious Steeler front 7? The result of this won’t only affect his and the Steelers defense fantasy production but could also carry significant ramifications on the rest of the Titans offense who operate at their best when Henry is in full flow and they can work a heavy dose of play action into the game plan.

But Tannehill is playing with a confidence that wasn’t seen enough up until now in his career and the game winning drive last week shows he has the capability of producing without having to rely on Henry to set the table for him. Can he do it against a defense the calibre of Pittsburgh though? Consider it a gamble.

His weapons are well known at this stage, AJ Brown carries the big play threat, and has rebounded from a slow start to the season, hampered by injury, with 2 solid weeks. Corey Davis is back in the line-up after missing 2 games. Him and Adam Humphries could be looked at as a flex option if you are in need of one.

Tight End Jonnu Smith has become a big part of the Titans arsenal and his athleticism could be a key factor to breaking down the Steeler defense. His no.2 Anthony Firkser has emerged as a reliable target for Tannehill and don’t be surprised if he soon starts contributing more, especially in goal line situations, and become somewhat fantasy relevant.


My Prediction:
These are both teams I have underestimated until now and I am very surprised that at week 7 this is game features 2 unbeaten sides. I probably have more faith in the Steelers defense making enough big plays to squeeze out a win here, but I expect this to go down to the wire. Probably not going to be a shootout by any stretch of the imagination, but definitely a game to watch if you’re a fan of tough, physical football.

Steelers by 3

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