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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.

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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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Washington @ Dallas Cowboys 9:30pm – Fantasy, Betting and Prediction

The 2nd Thanksgiving game is a Disaster Division clash between the Washington Football Team and the Dallas Cowboys.

It has been well documented just how bad this division has been. The 4 teams have all gotten 3 wins, with The Eagles tie with Cincinnati being the only thing separating the entire division. So, somehow, 2 3-7 teams are playing to go to top spot in the division before the weekend’s slate of games. 

Betpat Betting:
Money line: Washington 5/4 Dallas 13/20
Points Spread: Dallas -2.5
Over/Under: 46

I’m not surprised to see the Cowboys listed as favourites given the amount of quality in the team, especially on the offensive side of the ball. As good as the Washington defense has been, I would have to favour the overs at 46 points. There are just too many playmakers offensively on the field for me to be comfortable with backing less than 50 points.

Fantasy Football Outlook:


Washington Football Team:
The Football Teams’ offense sees one of the feel-good stories of the season, the returning Alex Smith, at Quarterback. Unfortunately, he is unlikely to have much effect at the top of the fantasy landscape, but his steady presence is, at least, good news for owners of receiver Terry McLaurin. 

Rookie Antonio Gibson leads the stable of Running Backs while JD McKissic provided the change of pace option. Gibson has had an excellent rookie season so far, especially the last 4 games where he has averaged nearly 17 points. McKissic is the pass catching back out of the group and while he won’t score big points on a regular basis, he’s capable of big days.

Their receiving options revolve around the afore mentioned ‘Scary’ Terry McLaurin, although he is listed as questionable with an ankle problem and, even if he plays, his production may suffer. Isaiah Wright and Cam Sims are the supporting cast along with former QB now playing Tight End Logan Thomas. None are household names and the only legit reason for playing either of them is the dire quality of the Cowboys secondary. Worth noting Thomas racked up 60 yards and a TD in the week 7 game between these 2.

Washington have a surprisingly good defense for a 3-7 team and only conceded 3 points against the Cowboys last time out, although Dallas finished that game with Ben DiNucci at QB.


Dallas Cowboys:
The Red Rifle had an impressive return last week after missing 2 games out due to the injury he suffered at the hands of the Football Team, throwing 3 TD’s in the win at Minnesota.

A big factor in that win was the performance of RB Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott has been underperforming since getting the big contract the Cowboys handed him in the 2019 off-season and the Cowboys have struggled to separate themselves from the rest of a brutal division as a result. We all know what he is capable of if he is on song and they feed him the ball.

Much like the Alex Smith effect, the Cowboys receiver corps gets a massive boost from Andy Dalton returning. They’ll need him too as the Washington defense is statistically the best in the league against WR’s in fantasy.

My Prediction:
How can anyone predict what will happen in this train-wreck of a division at this stage. On one hand, Andy Dalton’s return gives Dallas a shot and if they can get Elliott rolling again, you’d have to put them as favourites. On the other hand, Washington’s defense are really good and Ron Rivera is beginning to stamp his mark on the team. If Alex Smith can manage the game effectively, which he has made his career doing, this is a big ask for Dallas. I’m leaning towards the team with the better defense, but this is anyone’s game.

Washington by 1

Houston Texans @ Detroit Lions 5:30pm – Fantasy, Betting and Prediction

It’s Thanksgiving which means not only do we get 2 NFL games live on Sky at a half decent hour on Sunday, but we also get 2 more on Thursday this week. Unfortunately, the 2 bonus games we get feature 4 teams with a combined record of 13 – 27. But damn it, it’s more football so I’m not complaining.

Houston Texans @ Detroit Lions

 

The festivities begin at 5:30 with Houston Texans heading North to take on the Detroit Lions. Since going a respectable 3-3 to open the season, the Lions have lost 3 of their last 4 and suffered the ignominy of a shut out last week at the Carolina Panthers. By contrast, the Texans have won 2 of their last 3 after an ugly 1-6 opening which included the removal of GM and Head Coach Bill O’Brien. Romeo Crennel took over on an interim basis, making him the oldest HC in the league, and will be eager to earn himself the job full time. To do that, the will have to beat fellow ex-New England Defensive Co-ordinator Matt Patricia and mount even more pressure on the 3rd year Detroit Head Coach.

Betpat Betting:
Money line: Texans 8/15 Lions 6/4
Points Spread: Texans  -3
Over/Under: 51.5

I reckon the Texans being odds on and 3 point favourites is generous, especially if the Lions have Swift in the line-up. While Golladay is a big loss, Stafford can still win this game with Jones and Hall. TJ Hockenson is good value for 1st TD at 10/1.



Fantasy Football Outlook:


Houston Texans:
Luckily for Houston, their offense is led by QB Deshaun Watson which provides the receiving corps a good chance to make plays. His recent form has improved and had his 2nd best fantasy performance of the season last week against New England.

Of course, that group of receivers no longer includes DeAndre Hopkins, but Will Fuller has done a respectable job of stepping into his spot. Kenny Stills misses out with injury so Fuller is joined by Brandin Cooks and Keke Coutee. The Lions secondary have been far from impressive, so Houston’s receivers have potential for big days.

One of the biggest disappointments this season for the Texans is the lack of a run game. The combination of David and Duke Johnson have only 5 total TD’s between them, and 4 of those were by David who is in a position he has found himself in all too often in his career, IR. I’ve always been a believer that Duke Johnson has enough talent to be a good NFL RB but it’s clear Houston have been unable to get the best out of him.

Jordan Akins and Darren Fells have been battling it out for the no.1 Tight End spot in the Texans ranks and it’s still hard to know which one, if either, can provide a decent fantasy option.


Detroit Lions:
As per usual, ex Georgia Bulldog, Matthew Stafford is under Center for the Lions. He has generally been a really good fantasy qb throughout his career, but this hasn’t exactly been a vintage year for Stafford. And last week’s game at Carolina marked the first time this season he failed to register over 200 passing yards or a TD. Stafford is not one you should write off too easily though.

Stafford will be without the services of his primary weapon Kenny Golladay and veteran slot receiver Danny Amendola. So, the 2 Marvin’s, Jones and Hall have to carry the threat in the air alongside 2nd year Tight End TJ Hockenson. Hockenson was a 1st round pick last year and definitely has everything a Tight End needs to succeed. His production has been OK this year and if he can start adding more TD’s he has high end TE potential.  

Rookie RB is in a race against time to get cleared for this game as he is still currently in the NFL’s concussion protocol. He has shown himself to be a good fantasy RB so far this year and if he plays, he is worth starting if you have him in your squad. Should he be out, expect Adrian Peterson and Kerryon Johnson to split carries. If you’re stuck for a Running Back, you can check in before kick-off to see if Swift is playing. If he isn’t, I’d highly consider picking up Peterson.

 

My Prediction:


At full strength, I’d expect the Lions to win this one with reasonable comfort but the absences of Golladay and Amendola, and the questions surrounding D’Andre Swift, make this much closer than it should be. However I’m sticking with the Lions to squeeze out a Thanksgiving win. 

Lions by 4.

Ireland team to play Georgia on Sunday

Ireland Rugby Head Coach Andy Farrell has today named him side to play Georgia in the Autumn Nations Cup at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday.

Among the match day 23 named by Farrell is the uncapped Cork Constitution man Shane Daly, who is named among the replacements.

Changes from last weekend

In a largely changed side to the team that played England last weekend, James Ryan remains as captain.

The front row is made up of Finlay Bealham at loosehead, Rob Herring as hooker and Andrew Power continuing at tighthead prop.

The Ireland captain James Ryan is joined in the second row by Iain Henderson.

Tadhg Beirne is named as blindside flanker, Will Connors at openside, with CJ Stander chosen at No. 8.

Conor Murray returns to the scrum-half role and will play alongside Billy Burns who makes his first starting appearance as out-half.

Bangor’s Stuart McCloskey will partner Chris Farrell in the centre.

Keith Earls and Hugo Keenan are named on the wings with Jacob Stockdale chosen at fullback.

Shane Daly among the replacements

Alongside the uncapped Shane Daly on the bench will be plenty experience in the shape of Cian Healy and Peter O’Mahony, who have over 170 International caps between them.

Three Connacht players, namely Dave Heffernan, Quinn Roux and Kieran Marmion are also named among the replacements.

Munster’s John Ryan and Ross Byrne, who started at number 10 against England at Twickenham last weekend, are the other players among the 23-man match day squad.

The game kicks off at 2pm on Sunday next, with live coverage on both RTÉ and Channel 4.

Ireland Team

15. Jacob Stockdale, 14. Hugo Keenan, 13. Chris Farrell, 12. Stuart McCloskey, 11. Keith Earls, 10. Billy Burns, 9. Conor Murray.

1. Finlay Bealham, 2. Rob Herring, 3. Andrew Porter, 4. Iain Henderson, 5. James Ryan (captain), 6. Tadhg Beirne, 7. Will Connors, 8. CJ Stander.

Ireland Replacements

16. Dave Heffernan, 17. Cian Healy, 18. John Ryan, 19. Quinn Roux, 20. Peter O’Mahony, 21. Kieran Marmion, 22. Ross Byrne, 23. Shane Daly.

Fairyhouse Winter Festival 2020 Grade 1 races

A host of stars will contest the three Baroneracing.com-sponsored Grade 1 races on the second day of the Winter Festival at Fairyhouse on Sunday.

Drinmore Novice Chase
The unbeaten Cheveley Park Stud-owned Envoi Allen stands out among the seven horses remaining in the Grade 1 BARONERACING.COM Drinmore Novice Chase. This is a race his trainer Gordon Elliott has already won on five occasions. Owners Gigginstown House Stud may provide the stiffest opposition with four contenders, Embittered, Easywork, Assemble and Coko Beach. The JP McManus-owned Andy Dufresne and Seán O’Driscoll’s hat-trick seeker Home By The Lee also stand their ground.
Hattons Grace Hurdle

Honeysuckle makes her eagerly awaited return to action in the Grade 1 BARONERACING.COM Hatton’s Grace Hurdle. She won the race last year before success in the Irish Champion Hurdle and at the Cheltenham Festival.

A five-time winner at Fairyhouse, she heads the nine remaining entries in the race. Gordon Elliott’s Fury Road, the Willie Mullins-trained Saldier, Noel Meade’s Beacon Edge and the Matthew Smith-trained Ronald Pump among the opposition.

Royal Bond Novice Hurdle

A cracking renewal of the Grade 1 BARONERACING.COM Royal Bond Novice Hurdle is on the cards. Gordon Elliott’s Down Royal winner Ballyadam looks set to clash with Willie Mullins’ Cheltenham Festival scorer Concertista and N’golo. Cask Mate is set to take his chance for Noel Meade while the Ted Walsh-trained Dewcup, and Henry de Bromhead’s Annexation, are also among the 11 entries.

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