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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

Limerick vs Clare: Munster SHC Preview, Starting Teams & Live scores

There are two prizes on offer for the winner of Limerick vs Clare on Sunday. Firstly, the victor will advance to the Munster semi-final against Tipperary the following week. Secondly, the winner will also be crowned League Champions. After finishing top of Group A and B in Division 1 respectively, Limerick and Clare’s Championship decider has conveniently doubled up as the League decider.

CLICK HERE FOR LIVE SCORES

Limerick manager John Kiely admitted to not giving much thought to the fixture’s status as a double-header. It is clear that the Championship is the priority for Limerick. In 2019, they fell at the semi-final stage of the Championship to Kilkenny.

Now, Kiely’s team are out to go one better and claim their second Championship in three years. Their League form earlier in the year was certainly cause for optimism.

On the other hand, Clare’s U20 defeat to Tipperary last Monday night has freed up a number of players who Brian Lohan can call upon. However, Aidan McCarthy remains out with a broken thumb.

Earlier in the year, Clare went unbeaten in the League. A draw on the road against Kilkenny was particularly promising. After getting knocked out of the Championship early last year, the Banner county are out with a point to prove.

The game is live on RTÉ 2 on Sunday.

The winner plays Tipperary a week later. Whereas, the loser enter into the All-Ireland SHC Qualifiers on November 7/8.

Prediction

Limerick. Despite the absence of a crowd, the home advantage is still a welcome one. Furthermore, Limerick will be aiming to go all the way this year and laying down a marker in their first game is a target. But, Clare are more than able to challenge and will be a good test for the 2018 Champions.

Team News

Limerick (Munster SHC v Clare): Nickie Quaid; Sean Finn, Dan Morrissey, Barry Nash; Diarmaid Byrnes, Declan Hannon, Paddy O’Loughlin; Cian Lynch, Will O’Donoghue; Gearoid Hegarty, Kyle Hayes, Tom Morrissey; Graeme Mulcahy, Aaron Gillane, Peter Casey.

Subs: Barry Hennessy, Conor Boylan, Jerome Boylan, Adrian Breen, Ronan Connolly, Seamus Flanagan, Robbie Hanley, Darragh O’Donovan, Brian O’Grady, David Reidy, Pat Ryan.

Clare (Munster SHC v Limerick): Eibhear Quilligan; Jack Browne, Conor Cleary, Stephen O’Halloran; Seadna Morey, Patrick O’Connor, Aidan McCarthy; David McInerney, Tony Kelly; Diarmuid Ryan, David Reidy, David Fitzgerald; Ryan Taylor, Cathal Malone, Shane O’Donnell.

Subs: Donal Tuohy, Paidi Fitzpatrick, Rory Hayes, Domhnall McMahon, Aron Shanagher, Aaron Cunningham, Jason McCarthy, Gary Cooney, Colin Guilfoyle, Paul Flanagan.

Limerick vs Clare: Munster SHC Quarter-Final. Sunday, October 25th (Thurles). 

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Mayo vs Tyrone: Division 1 Preview, starting teams & live scores

Mayo vs Tyrone has the makings of a relegation shoot-out in Castlebar next Sunday. Despite Mayo’s comprehensive victory over Galway, they still need a win in their final game to guarantee safety. Meanwhile, Tyrone are just one point above the drop zone after their defeat to Donegal. If they lose and Monaghan win next weekend, they will drop to Division 2.

Mayo v Tyrone, Castlebar, 2pm Click for live score commentary

Mayo didn’t show any sign of rustiness in their return to action last Sunday. On the contrary, they produced arguably their best performance during James Horan’s second coming. From the off, they blew Galway out of the water. In the first-half, they accumulated a remarkable 2-17. Then, a further 1-6 after the break solidified their dominance.

However, with Galway missing many of their star names, it was easy for the Mayo players to find gaps in the defence. Next weekend, it will be much more attritional against Mickey Harte’s side. As a result, it will be impressive if Mayo can replicate such a scoreline.

The silver-lining for Mickey Harte in his loss to Donegal is the return of Conor McKenna. After six years in the AFL, the 24-year-old started for Tyrone. He scored 1-2 from play and added further assists.

Harte will be keen to stem the gaps Donegal were able to find in the Tyrone defence last weekend. If Mayo’s running game is on point, they can punish Tyrone just as easily. In a must-win game, Tyrone can’t afford to fall far behind.

Team News

Tyrone will be sweating over the availabilty of Rory Brennan. The referee brandished a red card after the corner-back fouled Murphy a minute from time and appeared to lay a hand on Jerome Henry.

On the other hand, Kieran McGeary’s dismissal won’t have any ramifications. He got his marching orders three minutes before Brennan after a black card on top of a yellow.

Cathal McShane won’t be available this season. But, Peter Harte could return and link up with Conor McKenna.

For Mayo, Mark Moran was the standout performer. The young Westport centre-forward made his debut for Mayo and fitted in seamlessly. A personal tally of 1-2 rounded off a dream debut. Likewise, Paddy Durcan, Oisin Mullin, and Aidan O’Shea all found themselves in the team of the week.

James Horan has very few complaints after the weekend. Therefore, we can’t expect many changes to the side that will take the field next Sunday.

Team News

Tyrone (Mayo): Niall Morgan; Liam Rafferty, Ronan McNamee, Darragh Canavan; Tiernan McCann, Kieran McGeary, Michael McKernan; Brian Kennedy, Frank Burns; Matthew Donnelly, Conor McKenna, Darren McCurry; Peter Harte, Conall McCann, Conor Meyler.

Mayo (Tyrone): David Clarke; Oisin Mullin, Stephen Coen, Lee Keegan; Patrick Durcan, Kevin McLoughlin, Eoghan McLaughlin; Matthew Ruane, Conor Loftus; Diarmuid O’Connor, Mark Moran, Bryan Walsh; Tommy Conroy, Aidan O’Shea, Cillian O’Connor.

Prediction: Mayo. They found a way to survive against Donegal in 2018 and will find a way to do so again, especially in McHale Park.

Mayo vs Tyrone: Division 1, Sunday October 25th, 2pm (Castlebar).

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Galway vs Dublin: Division 1 Preview, starting teams and live scores

Galway fell off the summit of Division 1 following their loss to Mayo at the weekend. However, a lot of Padraic Joyce’s star names were absent. On the other hand, Dessie Farrell’s stint as Dublin manager continued with another win over Meath. In a high-scoring game, Dublin had the only goal to aid a four-point win. As a result, these sides are tied on 8 points, just one behind Kerry. Thus, a win could see either of these teams crowned champions if the Kingdom don’t beat Donegal. Galway vs Dublin is on TG4 on Sunday.

Click for live score commentary

Padraic Joyce labelled the 15 point loss to Mayo as “Probably the most embarrassing day of my career”. After already losing Shane Walsh and the Moycullen contingent, Joyce was further hampered by losing Damien Comer and Johnny Duane early in the game.

Therefore, Galway go into the final round with a depleted squad. But, Joyce will prioritise the Championship game against Sligo rather than risk players against Dublin.

Worryingly, Mayo’s 17 first-half points at the weekend all came in or around the D. This will be cause for concern for Joyce who knows Dublin will punish them for such openness. As a result, expect to see a more condensed Galway defence this Sunday.

Meanwhile, Dublin oozed class in the game against Meath. Despite conceding 0-19, they were never really under threat. Dean Rock, Con O’Callaghan, and Dean Rock all had a day of shooting practice to hone their touch. But, Brian Fenton and Paddy Small were the only other scorers.

It will be interesting to see how Farrell approaches the Galway game. Will he deploy his big guns and go for the title? Or will he rotate his squad to look at some of his other options? Such is Dublin’s squad depth that even if he opts to rotate, there may be nothing Galway can do to stop Dublin challenging Kerry.

Team News

Padraic Joyce doesn’t have any good news ahead of this game. Comer’s hamstring injury appeared to be more than just a niggle. Likewise, Johnny Duane probably won’t feature this time around. As a result, Joyce’s options are limited and he may have to make do with what he has.

Aaron Byrne and Sean Bugler were given cameos off the bench for Dublin against Meath. Farrell could use them from the start against Galway to rest some of his key forwards. Similarly, Robbie McDaid could have another chance to impress in the half-back line.

Johnny Cooper limped off after 11 minutes last weekend. Eoin Murchan could be his replacement for the Galway game.

Prediction: Dublin. The five-in-a-row All-Ireland Champions haven’t shown any signs of slowing down in the transition between managers. Against a weakened Galway side, they should have too much firepower over the course of 70 minutes.

Dublin (Galway): Stephen Cluxton; Cian Murphy, David Byrne, Michael Fitzsimons; John Small, Jonny Cooper, Robert McDaid; Brian Fenton, Emmet O Conghaile; Eric Lowndes, Ciaran Kilkenny, Niall Scully; Paddy Small, Con O’Callaghan, Dean Rock.

Galway (Dublin): Bernard Power; Sean Kelly, Sean Mulkerrin, James Foley; Liam Silke, Gary O’Donnell, Johnny Heaney; Cein Darcy, Tom Flynn; Paul Kelly, Paul Conroy, Jason Leonard; Robert Finnerty, Adrian Varley, Ian Burke.

Galway vs Dublin: Division 1, Sunday, October 25th, 2pm (Pearse Stadium). 

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Guinness Six Nations – Ireland v Italy – Andy Farrell’s reaction

Ireland’s Guinness Six Nations dream is still alive following their 50-17 win over Italy at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Speaking after the game, Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell was happy with the bonus-point win.

“We got out of it what we wanted to – the bonus-point win. It takes us into the final week and we’re still in the hunt.”

Though the concession of a late try was frustrating, overall Farrell said he thought “we defended so well. I thought we created out own energy. We had great energy, great line speed. We got some good turnovers on the back of it. We were a bit frustrated in the end, but I thought our defence was excellent today.”

Work ethic was good

The Englishman was impressed with the debutants and less experienced players’ performances, with Hugh Keenan, Will Connors and Dave Heffernan in particular shining.

“The work ethic is there for all to see. I’m delighted for all of the lads. They played exceptional all of them. I’m just gutted their parents could have been here to see the game. They’ve worked so hard taking them around the country. They deserved to be here, but anyway, it is what it is.”

Centre Garry Ringrose left the field during the game for a HIA after a knock to the jaw. Farrell explained however that he passed the HIA but looked to have fractured his jaw.

“It looks like he’s had some back luck. He had a bang to the jaw. It doesn’t look too great. It looks as though he could have some type of fracture. He looks like he could be out for 4, 5, 6 weeks.”

It was later confirmed that Ringrose had in fact sustained a broken jaw.

Paris next weekend

Looking ahead to next weekend, the Irish management team is well aware of the task facing Ireland. If they achieve a bonus point win in Paris, they could be crowned 2020 Guinness Six Nations Champions.

Farrell is aware of the difficulty of winning in Paris:

“Next week, it’s a tall order to go to Paris and win over there. We know that if we got a bonus point, we could win the Trophy. That’s a tall order, isn’t it? We’ve got to make sure we analyse this performance and assess where we’re at and try and get better next week.”

He knows well it’s one thing beating Italy in Dublin, but beating the French in Paris will require a much improved overall performance from his side.

“We’re going to have to be better in all aspects of our game,” Farrell admitted. “They’re a formidable side, especially over there in Paris. We need to be better across the board. A little more composure on the ball at times would help. We’re in the hunt though. We should be looking forward to it as well.”

Irish trainers win Group 1 races at Doncaster and Saint-Cloud

Irish trainers Jim Bolger and Aidan O’Brien both won Group 1 races abroad on Saturday. Bolger trained MacSwiney to win the Vertem Trophy and Doncaster, while Aidan O’Brien was successful with Van Gogh at Saint-Cloud.

MacSwiney, who won a Group 2 on soft ground at The Curragh in August displayed his stamina and tenacity in the final British Group 1 of the season to win by three-quarters of a length.

The winner (12/1) was last to challenge under Kevin Manning as he overhauled eventual third Baradar (9/1) and held of the 6/4f One Ruler.

It was a first British Group 1 for Manning since Pléascach took the 2015 Yorkshire Oaks.

The winning rider said of MacSwiney:

“He’s got a great attitude and didn’t fight me through the race, but at the business end he’s there when you want him.”

Named after Terence MacSwiney

The colt is named after the Irish playwright and politician Terence MacSwiney, who died 100 years ago on 25 October 1920, in Brixton prison. The Cork man had been on hunger strike have been placed in Brixton charged with sedition.

“I must have known he was good back in January when I named him Mac Swiney” said winning trainer Jim Bolger. “It wouldn’t have been good for me or anyone around here to name a horse after a Cork man if he wasn’t very good”, he joked.

“He’s one of our outstanding patriots and I’m thrilled for his memory that this fellow was able to go back to England 100 years after his death and win like he did.”

Van Gogh wins French Group 1

Van Gogh produced an impressive burst of speed to win the Group One Criterium International for Aidan O’Brien at Saint-Cloud.

Ridden by French jockey Pierre-Charles Boudot, Van Gogh was last of the six runners until entering the home straight. Boudot quickly moved the 2-year-old to the rail on the stand side before he ran on for a comfortable victory.

It was a first European Group 1 win for the colt’s sire, American Pharoah, as Van Gogh won by our lengths from long-time leader Normandy Bridge.

Though it was his seventh career start, it was Van Gogh first race on heavy ground, something he seemed to relish.

Winning jockey, Boudot, said of the winner:

“He is impressive. Aidan told me before the race that he needed cover, for a nice trip and be relaxed. He has a nice turn of foot. He is still green and tricky when he arrived in front, but he won in very good style.”

Watch: Controversy as Manchester United draw with Chelsea

What promised to be an exciting affair was anything but that as the match finished goalless

Solsjkaer took on Lampard today as the two managers aimed to gain valuable points in what has been a disappointing Premier League campaign for both clubs thus far.

Although we’re just a handful of games into the season, United have had a rollercoaster of a season so far. They’ve had low points and high points. For example, they suffered an embarrassing 6-1 loss to Spurs earlier in the season but have also defeated last seasons Champions League finalists PSG during the week.

Chelsea have also had a similarly disappointing season. Despite their big spending during the summer, they’ve failed to live up to expectations. They drew to Schalke midweek and gave up a three-goal lead last weekend as they drew with Southampton.

Both teams could have done with a win today but unfortunately that wasn’t the case. There was an air of excitement before the game, but the fixture certainly didn’t live up to expectations.

There really wasn’t many talking points in the game, but one moment that stood out was an incident between Harry Maguire and Cezar Azpilicueta in the United box. Maguire appeared to grab hold of Azpilicueta and obstruct him from getting a proper header on the ball. VAR apparently took a look although it wasn’t shown on screen. They deemed it wasn’t a penalty. It’s a difficult one because we have seen penalties given for similar incidents in the past. On another day it could have easily been a spot kick.

Arguably, the best opportunity of the match came in the 35th minute – in a match where there wasn’t many chances. Marcus Rashford was slipped in after a good through ball by Bruno Fernandes. He shot low and hard, but Mendy managed to stretch his legs just enough to turn it around the post.

There’s a case that Edouard Mendy could have been man of the match. Although he didn’t have an awful lot to come up against, he did he job well as he saved a handful of shots of varying difficulty. There was one shaky moment where a shaky pass from the keeper narrowly avoided going into his own net, but other than that he was very comfortable between the sticks.

Cavani came on for him Manchester United debut in the 57th minute along with Paul Pogba. It was Cavani’s first game of professional football in nearly a year. That didn’t stop him from getting straight into the action, however. Seconds after he came on, he very nearly scored with his first touch after instinctive movement inside the box. Unfortunately for him though, it was the wrong side of the net.

Cavani had one more opportunity towards the end of the match but his shot was blocked inside the box by his former teammate, Thiago Silva. The pair had spent 7 years together at PSG so they would have been very familiar with each other.

Other than that, there really wasn’t much more entertainment on show. Both teams failed to hold onto possession for long periods of time and they were generally sloppy.

After tonight’s result, Manchester United sit in 15th while Chelsea move up to 6th for the time being.

United take on Arsenal next Sunday in what is another tough fixture while Chelsea have an away trip to Turf Moor as they are set to face Burnley.

Keenan, Connors and Heffernan star as Ireland get win over Italy

Irish debutants Hugo Keenan, Will Connors and Dave Heffernan shined in their Test match debuts for the Ireland Rugby team this afternoon, as Andy Farrell’s side romped to victory against Italy. After eight months side-lined due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Guinness Six Nations tournament returned this weekend to the Aviva Stadium. 

BONUS POINT

After a moderately slow start, Farrell’s side took control of the tie once the 20-minute mark hit. CJ Stander opened the scoring for the boys in green in the 8th minute with his second try of the season. But it was the new boys who shone today in the capital, after breath-taking performances from Hugo Keenan and Will Connors. 

Keenan, who had a try disallowed in the first half, came away from the game with two separate tries to his name. 

While Leinster flanker Will Connors finished the game with a Man of the Match performance. Connors shone this afternoon after 9 carries and a debut Test match try. In addition, Connaught’s Dave Heffernan also saw himself on the scoresheet with a third debut try for the squad. 

All three debutants played vital roles in a game which saw Ireland gain a bonus point in their fight to win their fifth Six Nations Championship. Ireland currently now sit top of the table with 14 points, a point ahead of England and France.

PARIS INCOMING

Ireland now travel to Paris to face rivals France in what will turn out to be a decisive moment both of their seasons. All eyes will be on the fixture as both teams hope for England to slip-up against Italy and fail to gain the bonus point. 

Ireland will be hopeful to keep up their performances after a good opening to the restart of the tournament. Captain Johnny Sexton helped the team to victory, converting five conversions from six attempts and bagging himself a try in the 65th minute. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIlhqvFOwk8 

Centre Bundee Aki also got on the scoresheet just three minutes after Sexton’s try, while Ross Byrne managed to convert in the 80th minute from Heffernan’s debut try. 

While it was a comfortable afternoon for Farrell’s side, Irish fans will be anxiously awaiting the result from England’s closing fixture. After a lapse in concentration from the Irish defence late in the game, another debutant got on the scoresheet. Italy’s Paolo Garbisi converted from his own try score deep into the game. 

While the bonus point stay in Dublin, fans can only hope that lapse of judgement doesn’t come back to haunt the team next Saturday.

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