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Mohamed Salah the latest victim among a string of positive Covid-19 tests during international break

The Egyptian FA confirmed the forward’s positive result earlier today.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has tested positive for coronavirus, according to the Egyptian football association. He must now undergo mandatory quarantine, despite not displaying any symptoms.

Salah will undergo additional testing to further assess his condition. If tests reveal a negative result, he will not have to quarantine in the UK and will be available for selection against Leicester. He will, however, miss Egypt’s upcoming games against Togo in AFCON qualifying.

The forward was filmed enjoying himself at his brother’s wedding prior to the positive test.

Salah’s test comes as one of the many positive tests during international break amongst different squads.

Additional Covid-19 outbreaks

The FAI confirmed today that Alan Browne has tested positive. This comes after the midfielder played a full 90 minutes against England yesterday – where he had the virus according to reports. There has been no confirmation of additional positive tests between the two camps since the match, though. Alan Browne is Ireland’s second Covid-19 related absence after Callum Robinson also tested positive earlier in the week.

There has also been virus outbreaks within the Denmark and Brazil camps. Denmark missed no less than 20 of their players in a friendly against Sweden – who were also missing players due to the virus – on Wednesday. Gabriel Menino of Brazil also tested positive having trained with the Brazilian squad. Several Premier League players trained with Menino including Roberto Firmino, Alisson Becker and Alex Telles.

Norway and Israel cancelled their friendly on Tuesday, also. Israel striker Munas Dabbur contracted the virus leading to the cancellation.

This is not the first time there has been an excess of cases among players during international breaks, either. During last month’s international break there was also a series of positive test results. Shamrock Rovers midfielder Jack Byrne tested positive for the virus while on Ireland duty. The Italy u21s also had an outbreak in their camp, leading them to play a weakened side against the Ireland u21s.

Another week of football is to be played with further cases likely. It’s clear that changes must be made regarding the safety of international football during these times.

Two wins for Ireland U-21’s could be enough to seal EURO 2021 qualification

Italy U-21 2-1 Iceland U-21

Italy’s late victory over third place Iceland may prove pivotal in Ireland’s EURO 2021 qualification push. The Ireland team continue to occupy second place, one point above Sweden and Iceland. Following a disappointing defeat at the hands of group leaders Italy last month, there was feeling that Jim Crawford’s men may have missed their best chance at qualifying.

However today’s match in Iceland has further heightened the importance of Ireland’s next two fixtures. A win against Iceland at Tallaght Stadium on Sunday, followed by a win in Luxembourg on Wednesday evening, should be enough to qualify for next year’s tournament.

Chance to make history by qualifying for EURO 2021

Manchester City goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has been impressing whilst out on loan at Rochdale this season, and was close to getting his first senior call-up according to boss Stephen Kenny. He returns to the home of his boyhood club Shamrock Rovers on Sunday and will be hoping the Ireland team can emulate the success of the SSE Airtricity Premier Division champions.

Ireland U-21s have never qualified for a competition of this nature and Bazunu notes this as a “huge incentive” going into the final two games. But the focus remains on the Iceland game first.

Team News

Jim Crawford must continue without Adam Idah, Jayson Molumby and Dara O’Shea who have all made the step up to the senior side. Striker Jonathan Afolabi has also dropped out through injury. He is replaced by Accrington Stanley forward Ryan Cassidy.

On the flip side, Troy Parrott makes his return to the U-21 camp after recently overcoming an injury that has kept him on the sidelines for much of this season. Despite the good news, Millwall boss Gary Rowett is wary of Parrott’s fitness levels heading into the international fixtures.

Meanwhile, Bohemian’s winger Danny Grant ended his impressive breakthrough season with another goal.

Italy are odds on for automatic qualification. Five of the best-performing runners up from each group will also qualify for the competition. Ireland currently stand as the fifth best team in second place of their respective group, with a game in hand and a point behind Poland who have completed all of their games.

With the unlikely scenario of several teams below Ireland in the “runners-up group” winning their remaining fixtures, two wins should be enough to clinch qualification. Ireland’s faith is in their own hands.

Nevertheless, as many a footballer and manager would say – Gavin Bazunu included – the focus is on the next game. Ireland U-21 vs Iceland U-21 kicks off at 12.30pm on Sunday afternoon in Tallaght Stadium.

The full Ireland U-21 squad is listed below.

Goalkeepers: Gavin Bazunu (Rochdale, on loan from Manchester City), Ed McGinty (Sligo Rovers)

Defenders: Nathan Collins (Stoke City), Darragh Leahy (Dundalk), Conor Masterson (Queens Park Rangers), Mark McGuinness (Ipswich Town, on loan from Arsenal), Danny McNamara (St Johnstone, on loan from Millwall), Lee O’Connor (Tranmere Rovers, on loan from Celtic), Thomas O’Connor (Gillingham, on loan from Southampton), Liam Scales (Shamrock Rovers)

Midfielders: Conor Coventry (West Ham United), Luca Connell (Celtic), Will Ferry (Southampton), Jason Knight (Derby County), Danny Mandroiu (Bohemians), Connor Ronan (Grasshopper Zurich, on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers), Anthony Scully (Lincoln City), Jack Taylor (Peterborough United)

Forwards: Ryan Cassidy (Accrington Stanley, on loan from Watford), Zack Elbouzedi (Lincoln City), Danny Grant (Bohemians), Joshua Kayode (Carlisle United, on loan from Rotherham United), Michael Obafemi (Southampton), Troy Parrott (Millwall, on loan from Tottenham Hotspur)

5 Names who could be the Next Tyrone Manager

On Wednesday afternoon, mummers emerged from Tyrone that Mickey Harte had a request for a one-year extension as manager refused. Niall Gartland of the Ulster Herald and Gaelic Life broke the story. Harte signed a three-year contract with Tyrone in 2017 that will expire in 2020. If he is to remain at the helm, he may have to interview among other candidates.

Harte first took charge of the Tyrone team in 2003. That season he steered them to their maiden All-Ireland win.

Since then, he has led his teams to six Ulster Senior Championship titles and three All-Irelands. This followed a successful tenure with Tyrone underage teams.

If Harte should leave his role as manager for 2021, it will be interesting to see how Tyrone choose to move forward. Will they promote from inside as they did in 2003 or will they look outside their current set-up for a fresh input?

Along with the senior position, the U20 and minor management positions are also scheduled for a reshuffle. Hence, the timing could be right to move an underage manger up.

Here are five possible candidates for the next Tyrone manager.

1. Peter Canavan.

The Tyrone legend won two All-Ireland’s under Mickey Harte and is the first name many people will suggest to be his successor.

Canavan has managed before. Firstly, he had two years as the head man in Fermanagh. Secondly, he brought Cavan Gaels to a club Championship that seen as a huge success. Then, he was a part of Feargal Logan and Brian Dooher’s backroom team that brought Tyrone U21s to All-Ireland glory in 2015.

However, Canavan is currently enjoying success as a pundit with Sky Sports. Furthermore, he has openly said he won’t take on the Tyrone senior job while he has family on the team: “If Mickey opts out, I’ll not be involved in managing a team where I’ve a son and a son-in-law involved.”. Hence, fans shouldn’t hold their breath on this one.

2. Paul Devlin.

The current Tyrone U20 manager. Like Mickey Harte, Devlin is under a contract that ends in 2020.

After a slow start to his term as manager, Devlin’s team came good. Back-to-back Ulster Championships in 2019 and 2020 was as far as his teams got. Recently, they lost a tight semi-final to Dublin.

A youthful injection is perhaps something Tyrone need. Devlin has worked with many of the younger players on the squad so he knows them well. An internal promotion worked before so the Tyrone hierarchy may decide to stick to the trend.

3. Feargal Logan (and Brian Dooher).

The U21 winning manager in 2015. Among Logan’s team were Kieran McGeary, Lee Brennan, Mark Bradley, Conor Meyler, Cathal McShane, Rory Brennan, Padraig Hampsey, Michael Cassidy and Frank Burns, all who are senior squad players now. After so long under one manager, it may be a smooth transition if a familiar face comes into the dressing room.

4. Sean Cavanagh.

Cavanagh was an excellent servant to Mickey Harte during his inter-county career. Since retiring in 2017 he has enjoyed success at club level. The ‘youthful’ option, Cavanagh knows Harte’s ways and has been closer to the action recently than some other contenders. So, his insight would highly valued.

But, it’s maybe too soon for Cavanagh to take this job and he could opt to cut his teeth as part of a backroom team first.

5. Gavin McGilly.

Firstly, McGilly was a part of the management team that saw St. Mary’s win a famous Sigerson Cup in 2017 by beating a loaded UCD team. Then, he took Sean Cavanagh’s club Moy to Intermediate All-Ireland glory in 2018.

Now, he has the head job at St. Mary’s and is a part of Paddy Tally’s backroom team at Down. He has no shortage of management experience but would be an outsider to succeed Harte.

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Garbally Players Colm Reilly & Conor Kenny get their first Connacht starts

Former Garbally players Colm Reilly and Conor Kenny are set to make their first starts for Connacht against the Scarlets this weekend. Last time out in Edinburgh, the 21-year-old scrum-half Reilly came off the bench. Now, Andy Friend gives him the nod to start this time around.

Kenny meanwhile has made 7 appearances as a replacement since making his debut at the start of last season. The tighthead prop starts for the first time alongside Shane Delahunt and Paddy McAllister who also enjoys his first start of the campaign.

Kenny is another product of the Connacht grassroots system, having played for Buccaneers RFC and Garbally College where he won a Connacht Schools Cup.

Reilly was a part of the Ireland U-20 team that won a 6 Nations Grand Slam in 2019. The young ball-slinger made four appearances in that famous win. Furthermore, he scored an excellent solo try against Wales in the title-clinching finale.

Connacht rewarded Reilly with his first professional contract in June of this year after coming through the academy. With a selection of top scrum-halves already in Connacht, Reilly is learning from the best.

Previously, he came on against Edinburgh for the closing eight minutes. Connacht won that game comfortably in the end, making it a memorable debut for Reilly.

In 2018, Reilly was a key member of the Garbally team that won the Connacht Senior Cup. In fact, he scored a try in that 45-26 win over Coláiste Iognáid.

The Ballinasloe college is the most successful team in that tournament with a proud rugby history. Reilly joins an impressive list of alumni to go on and play rugby at the top level including Tiernan O’Hallaran, Ciaran Fitzgerald, Noel Mannion, Ray McLoughlin, Johnny O’Connor, Tiernan O’Halloran & Willie Ruane the current CEO of Connacht Rugby.

Reilly’s father Stephen is a former principal of the distinguished secondary school. Hence, the Ballinasloe native’s debut is even more reason to be proud.

Having also played rugby for Ballinasloe, Reilly will have a large support group watching on when he takes to the field this weekend.

With Kieran Marmion also available to Connacht this weekend, Colm Reilly will start the game before making way for the Ireland international.

Watch Colm introduce himself here: https://fb.watch/1IR17dDv30/

Commenting ahead of the game, Head Coach Andy Friend said:

“While having two postponed games was disappointing, we’ve made sure to take a positive approach to the situation. We’ve had a great few weeks training and it’s given some players the opportunity to reach full fitness again. It’s also our first home game in six weeks so we’re looking forward to that.”

Regarding his team selection, Friend added:

“In Conor and Colm we have two more Academy graduates making their first starts which is a real positive for us as a club. We’ve also got plenty of experience available to us again since the Edinburgh game, like Jack Carty, Ultan Dillane, Kieran Marmion and Matt Healy. So we’re in a healthy spot overall and we can’t wait to get back playing.”

Player ratings as Ireland fall to England

Here’s how we rated the Boys in Green tonight.

DARREN RANDOLPH – 6

Not much Randolph could have done about the 3 England goals. Executed the basics well and showed good distribution. He was however hesitant to deal with a cross on one occasion, which could have easily lead to a Harry Maguire goal.

CYRUS CHRISTIE – 5

Cyrus Christie was afforded a rare international start tonight owing to Séamus Coleman’s absence. Looked good at times defensively in the first half. Unfortunately though, he gave away a penalty in the second half which led to England’s 3rd goal. Subbed off for Kevin Long in the 60th minute.

MATT DOHERTY – 6

Doherty had an unusual start at left back tonight due to Enda Stevens’ unfortunate injury. He played well in the unfamiliar position. He looked astute defensively and kept possession well.

SHANE DUFFY – 6

Although normally dominant in the air, he lost his 50/50 with Harry Maguire for the first England goal. Otherwise, made a handful of key blocks and looked fairly comfortable on the ball. Not his best game for Ireland, but not his worst.

JOHN EGAN – N/A

Egan was subbed off for Dara O’Shea in the 14th minute due to a head injury. His collision with Conor Hourihane while defending a corner was the cause of the injury.

ALAN BROWNE – 6

Injected good energy into the Ireland midfield as he regularly chased lost causes and made good runs for his teammates to pick him out. Combined well with Daryl Horgan in the first half which nearly resulted in an opportunity for Ireland. Had Ireland’s first shot of the night in the 70th minute which was saved by Dean Henderson.

CONOR HOURIHANE – 6

Played a few good crossfield passes throughout the game, however failed to progress the ball as he would have liked. Had a good chance from a set piece in the first half, but the ball was easily dealt with in the end. Subbed off for Jayson Molumby in the 70th minute.

JEFF HENDRICK – 7

Looked very good in possession when on the ball. Played a brilliant lofted ball into the box for Daryl Horgan which ultimately resulted in nothing. His work rate for Ireland has been criticized in the past, but he was very busy in midfield tonight.

DARYL HORGAN – 6

Daryl Horgan played just his 8th Ireland game tonight, starting on the right wing. He was arguably Ireland’s best player in the first half. He got behind the England backline on occasion and provided a few dangerous crosses. Unfortunately though, his crosses were not met by his teammates. Subbed in the 60th minute for Robbie Brady.

CALLUM O’DOWDA – 5

Was quiet and didn’t get on the ball as much as he would have liked. He did, however, perform well defensively when called into action. Subbed off for James McClean in the 60th minute.

ADAM IDAH – 6

Looked comfortable in possession but failed to create any danger in the opposition box. Normally plays in behind the defence, but was deployed in a more David McGoldrick-esque role tonight as he dropped deep on occasion to receive the ball. He also displayed good pressing throughout the match. Subbed off for Ronan Curtis in the 70th minute.

SUBSTITUTIONS

DARA O’SHEA – 6

Came on for John Egan in the 14th minute. Looked very comfortable on the ball as he sprayed passes while operating at centre back. Converted to right back after Cyrus Christie came off.

JAMES MCCLEAN – 5

Played one good cross into Shane Duffy towards the end of the match, but otherwise didn’t have much of an impact.

ROBBIE BRADY – 5

Kept possession well after coming on, but didn’t do much in other respects.

KEVIN LONG – 6

Did his job well when he came on. Made two vital interceptions towards the end of the game to halt England goalscoring opportunities.

JAYSON MOLUMBY – 6

Looked good in possession. He was always keen to get on the ball and made a good run in the 80th minute which eventually led to a Ronan Curtis shot. Covered a lot of ground after coming on.

RONAN CURTIS – 6

Made a good run turned shot in the 80th minute which forced Dean Henderson into a save. Otherwise, didn’t have much of an impact.

Donegal vs Armagh: Ulster Semi-Final Preview

After eliminating Tyrone in a tough Championship opener, Donegal return to action against Armagh. The Orchard county overcame Derry in a 70-minute duel in their opening game. The winner of this one advances to the final against Cavan or Down.

The Ulster Championship is undoubtedly the most competitive of the four pronvincials. So, when Donegal were drawn against Tyrone for their opener, the rest of Ulster would have rejoiced in being guaranteed to lose a big team straight away. Of course, Donegal were the ones to advance but they still have work to do to be crowned Ulster Champions.

Meanwhile, Armagh have struggled to play to their potential in recent Championships. Having won promotion to Division 1, they’re under pressure to compete with the biggest teams. So, this fixture will be a good test of their credentials.

Donegal were impressive against Tyrone. In particular, Ciarán Thompson and Michael Langan were standout performers. The latter was the Donegal goalscorer. On 25 minutes, he made a direct run forward, getting the ball from Peadar Morgan and holding off challenges before rifling the ball past Niall Morgan in the Tyrone goal.

Donegal only had 5 scorers in the game, Langan notching 1-12 of their total. Absentees from the scoresheet included Michael Murphy, Ryan McHugh, Niall O’Donnell, and Paddy McBrearty who was kept in reserve. If Donegal can add these names to their list of scorers, it will take a mammoth challenge to beat them.

Meanwhile, Armagh led for the entirety of their game against Derry but had to dig deep to see off the oakleafers.

Rian O’Neill kicked four frees that went a long way in Armagh’s favour. But, they allowed Derry to kick seven dead balls that helped them get back in the game. Kieran McGeeney will be sure to make sure his side tidy up their discipline as such fouling could cost them this game.

Leading 0-11 to 0-5 at the interval, McGeeney’s men allowed Derry back into the game in the second half. Jamie Clarke’s black card in the 51st minute only added to their self-inflicted struggles. Despite Derry coming back to make the game a closely contested one, Armagh held on. But, they will know that Donegal would put the game beyond them if they take their foot off the gas in such a way again.

Armagh haven’t won an Ulster title since 2008. With the absence of a back door this year they have to set their sights on ending that drought. Meanwhile, Donegal are going for their third Ulster final in a row. With Monaghan losing on the other side of the draw, Declan Bonner knows it is his to lose now.

Donegal are 2/7 favourites to advance. Otherwise, Paddy Power have Armagh at 7/2 to cause an upset while a draw is 9/1.

The game is live on Sky Sports Mix.

Prediction: Donegal. Armagh are a good side but even if they show up on Saturday Donegal will find a way to win. The north-westerners are just further along in their development than the Orchard men.

This will be their 28thth championship clash, with Armagh winning fifteen to Donegal’s nine  and three draws from the previous 27 contests. Both have one win behind them in the Ul ster championship: Donegal beat Tyrone by two points while Armagh had the same amount  to spare over Derry in their quarter-final.

Team News

Armagh (Ulster SFC v Donegal): Blaine Hughes; Paddy Burns, Ryan Kennedy, James Morgan; Conor O’Neill, Aidan Forker, Mark Shields; Oisin O’Neill, Stephen Sheridan; Rory Grugan, Callum Cumiskey, Stefan Campbell; Jamie Clarke, Rian O’Neill, Niall Grimley.

LAST FIVE CHAMPIONSHIP CLASHES 

2015: Donegal 2-11 Armagh 0-8 (Ulster quarter-final) 

2014: Donegal 1-12 Armagh 1-11 (All-Ireland quarter-final) 

2010: Armagh 2-14 Donegal 0-11 (All-Ireland qualifier) 

2007: Donegal 1-9 Armagh 1-8 (Ulster quarter-final) 

2006: Armagh 1-9 Donegal 0-9 (Ulster final) 

Facts to know

This will be their first championship meeting since 2015 when Donegal won an Ulster quar ter-final by nine points. 

Donegal are bidding to reach the final for the ninth time in ten seasons. The only year they missed out was 2017. 

Armagh were last in the final in 2008.

Team News 

Armagh team – Blaine Hughes, Paddy Burns, Ryan Kennedy, James Morgan, Conor O’Neil, Aidan Forker, Mark Shields, Oisin O’Neill, Stephen Sheridan, Rory Grugan, Callum Cumiskey, Stefan Campbell, Jamie Clarke, Rian O’Neill, Niall Grimley

Donegal – TBC

Ulster Football Semi-Final: Donegal vs Armagh, Saturday, 14th November, 13:15 (Kingspan Breffni Park).

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Katie Taylor vs Miriam Gutierrez – Preview, Live Stream & Start time

Katie Taylor returns to the ring on Saturday night as she fights Spaniard Miriam Gutierrez at Wembley Arena. Other fights on the card include Terri Harper vs Katharina Thanderz and Rachel Ball vs Jorgelina Guanini. A day for the history books, with three women’s world title belts on the line. It will be undisputed champion Taylor’s first fight since her victory over Delfine Persoon in their rematch back in August.

Taylor’s convincing win over Persoon silenced critics after a closely contested first bout between the pair. Now the Bray native heads into Saturday’s fight aiming to defend her lightweight championship title once again.

Who is Miriam Gutierrez?

The 37-year-old boasts an impressive professional boxing record, winning all thirteen of her fights to date, with five of them won by knockout. However just under a year has passed since Gutierrez last fought.

Earlier in 2019 the Spaniard went ten rounds against British boxer Sam Smith. Smith believes that Gutierrez will enter Saturday’s fight fully prepared, whilst also highlighting her ability to adapt quickly when in the ring. Nevertheless, Smith went onto add that “she (Gutierrez) didn’t have anything there that would worry you”.

Creating a Legacy

Speaking to BBC Sport, Katie Taylor outlined what legacy she wants to leave behind:  “I want those young girls to be multiple-time world champion and multiple-time Olympic champion. I want to inspire the next generation to dream big dreams”. But retirement is not on Taylor’s agenda. The 34-year-old still wants to headline in her home country before thinking about calling it a day.

Yet for now, focus is on retaining her title on Saturday against Gutierrez.

Where to watch, start time and live stream details

As part of Sky Sports’ initiative in supporting women’s sport, this weekend’s fight card will be free to air via Sky Sports Youtube and Facebook channels as well as skysports.com. The action commences at 7pm on Saturday night.

 

Cavan vs Down: Preview, TV Channel, Betting, Prediction

Cavan added to their usurping of Monaghan with a win over Antrim last weekend. Now, they face Down in the Ulster semi-final. The Mourne man were victorious against Fermanagh in their quarter-final on Sunday. Both of these sides have made it to Ulster finals in recent years. Last season, Cavan made it to the decider but lost to Donegal. Likewise, Down played the 2017 final against Tyrone but came out on the wrong side. Now, one of these teams is guaranteed to contest the Anglo-Celt Cup again.

After their famous win over Monaghan, Cavan returned to action against Antrim last weekend. Initially they made the game hard work for themselves. Antrim were well set-up defensively. But, even when Cavan got a look at goal they were slow to take their chances. 6 wides in the first half saw them enter the break a point down.

Antrim stuck to their system in the second half, showing great discipline. In the third quarter they threatened to steal a goal that would leave Cavan with a lot of work to do. But, Ray Galligan came to Cavan’s rescue again.

Then, in the final stages Antrim finally ran out of steam. Cavan showed the benefit of having already played a Championship game and they finished strongly. After leaving it late twice now, Mickey Graham will be keen to get his team off the mark quickly in the semi-final.

Meanwhile, Down came up against a similarly stubborn Fermanagh team. Both teams adopted big defensive blocks in this fixture and the scoreline was evidence of this. Goals were never really on offer in the first half and long-range shooting proved beneficial. There was never more than one between the teams as Down went into the break 0-7 vs 0-6.

There was always a sense that one goal could open the game up. Caolan Mooney was the one to offer up such a chance. After a bursting run he left the Fermanagh defence stretched. As a result, Daniel McGuinness found space at the back post and palmed it into the empty net.

Fermanagh had no reply from there and Down’s forwards continued to tack on the scores. Barry O’Hagan scored 0-4 from play in an impressive display that will leave him full of confidence.

The experience of winter Championship aided Cavan in their last game. However, they now enter their fifth game in five weeks. With heavy ground under foot, fatigue may play a part, especially after going for more than 90 minutes against Monaghan.

Otherwise, Down are fresh and ready to take on Graham’s men. Their strong finish against Fermanagh was an excellent display of their firepower. At the same time, they showed great patience and discipline to break down a stout Fermanagh defence.

The game is live on BBC Northern Ireland.

Down are 4/6 favourites with Paddy Power. Cavan are the opposite at 6/4 and a draw is 15/2.

Prediction: Down. Cavan proved capable of providing an upset already and have been underestimated in Ulster before. But, five games in five weeks is a lot in these circumstances and Down may just have the extra legs coming down the stretch.

Facts and Figures

This will be their first Ulster championship meeting since 2007 when Down won a prelimi nary round tie by four points. They met in the All-Ireland qualifiers two years ago when  Cavan won by two points. 

LAST FIVE CHAMPIONSHIP CLASHES 

2018: Cavan 1-14 Down 0-15 (Qualifier Round 2) 

2007: Down 0-15 Cavan 0-11 – Replay (Ulster preliminary round) 

2007: Down 3-8 Cavan 2-11 – Draw (Ulster preliminary round) 

2006: Down 1-13 Cavan 0-11 (Ulster preliminary round) 

2004: Cavan 3-13 Down 2-12 – Replay (Ulster quarter-final) 

*Cavan beat Monaghan (2-15 to 1-17 after extra-time) and Antrim (0-13 to 0-9) to reach the semi-final. Down beat Fermanagh by 1-15 to 0-11. 

*Cavan, who lost to Donegal in last year’s Ulster final, are bidding to reach the final in suc cessive years for the first time since 1968-69. 

*Down were last in the Ulster final in 2017. They haven’t won the title since 1994 while Cavan’s last success was in 1997. 

Ulster Championship Semi-Final: Cavan vs Down, Sunday, 15th November, 13:30 (Athletic Grounds). 

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Limerick vs Waterford: Munster Hurling Final – Preview, Betting and Team News

Limerick have a chance to make it back-to-back Munster Championships on Sunday. The 2018 All-Ireland Champions got off to a flying start by defeating last year’s winners Tipperary a fortnight ago. On the other hand, Waterford overcame Cork to reach their first Munster final since 2016. The winner of this final goes on to the semi-final where they’ll patiently await the 29th of November.

CLick for live score commentary

Since Waterford won Munster in 2010, they have returned to the final four times. However, each of these ended in defeat. Now, there is a chance for Waterford to capitalise on the new Championship format and claim Munster after just two games.

Previously, they began their Championship against Cork. Entering the game as underdogs, they soon showed they were there to play. A frantic opening ten minutes had the score at 0-5 to 0-4 for Cork. But, then Waterford enjoyed a good spell. Soon after the first-half water break, they made it double scores at 0-10 to 0-5. Although Cork kept coming back, Waterford took a three-point lead into the break.

Waterford were against a stiff wind in the second period. Yet, they more than held their own. Another frantic restart saw them go point-for-point with the rebels. Then, the ever-impressive Calum Lyons made a characteristic burst up the wing, holding off Cork challenges before firing into the net. That gave the Déise men a six-point lead.

From there, Waterford kept the scoreboard ticking over at a safe pace. At the full-time whistle they celebrated a 1-28 to 1-24 win. Ten different scorers contributed to the Waterford tally. This is something Liam Cahill will be delighted about. However, they still accumulated a worrying amount of wides. Limerick are more efficient than Cork and will punish Waterford for such wastefulness.

Limerick earn the badge of favourites

Last year’s Munster winners came back with a point to prove after losing the All-Ireland semi-final last year. They did just that against Tipperary who they took apart ruthlessly in Páirc Uí Chaoimh. Limerick applied the lessons they learned about winter Championship in their opener against Clare to their semi-final tie. As a result, there was a physical duel in the middle third that Limerick’s middle eight embraced. Their superior conditioning stopped the Tipperary charge at its source and in turn supplied the forwards with all the chances they needed.

When Aaron Gillane scored Limerick’s first goal shortly after the first-half water-break, Limerick were four points ahead. From then until half-time they put their opponents to the sword. As a result, it was 1-17 to 1-8 at the break.

Facing a strong wind in the second-half, Limerick’s work rate off the ball made sure they were never on the back foot. Furthermore, they were incredibly economical in possession, making sure to be patient with the sliotar in midfield and finding the right passes inside. It ended 3-23 to 2-17 and Limerick’s performance saw them jump the queue to be favourites for this year’s Championship.

But, they won Munster convincingly last year and still failed to reach the All-Ireland final. Based on the evidence thus far, John Kiely’s side are out to prove a point to themselves.

Waterford have already proved capable of competing with the big teams. But, they need to be at their best and above to trump this Limerick team. Even if they fail to conquer Munster for the first time in a decade, Waterford could have a big part to play in the rest of the Championship.

Whereas, Limerick should have too much class for their opponents here. They know how to manage games and the competition within the team is only driving them on.

The Munster Hurling Final is on RTÉ on Sunday.

Limerick are 2/9 favourites with Paddy Power versus Waterford’s 4/1. A draw is 11/1.

Prediction: Limerick.

Teams

Waterford : Stephen O’Keeffe; Shane Fives, 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.

They meet in the Munster final for the first time in 13 years when Waterford won by nine  points (3-17 to 1-14) in 2007. Limerick later avenged that defeat in the All-Ireland semi-final,  winning by 5-11 to 2-15. 

HOW THEY GOT HERE 

Limerick 0-36 Clare 1-23 

Limerick 3-23 Tipperary 2-17 

*** 

Waterford 1-28 Cork 1-24 

LAST FIVE CHAMPIONSHIP MEETINGS 

2019: Limerick 2-24 Waterford 0-10 (Munster round robin) 

2018: Limerick 2-26 Waterford 1-16 (Munster round robin) 

2011: Waterford 3-15 Limerick 3-14 (Munster semi-final) 

2009: Waterford 0-25 Limerick 0-17 (Munster semi-final) Replay 

2009: Waterford 0-11 Limerick 1-8 (Munster semi-final) Draw 

MUNSTER FINAL MEETINGS 

2007: Waterford 3-17 Limerick 1-14 

1934: Limerick 4-8 Waterford 2-5 

1933: Limerick 3-7 Waterford 1-2 (unfinished – Limerick awarded game) 

Facts and Figures

*Limerick are seeking their 21st Munster title; Waterford are bidding for their 10th. 

*Limerick beat Waterford by 2-24 to 0-10 in last year’s Munster championship ‘round robin.’  The last competitive clash between them was in this year’s Allianz League when Limerick  won by four points in March. 

*Limerick are attempting to win the Munster title in successive years for the first time since  1980-81. Waterford last won the title in 2010 and were last in the final in 2016 when they  lost to Tipperary.

*Aaron Gillane 2-18 (0-14 frees, 1-0 pen, 0-1 ‘65’), Ger Hegarty 0-7, Tom Morrissey 0-6,  Diarmuid Byrnes 0-6 (0-2 frees) are Limerick’s top scorers in their two championship  games to date. 

*Stephen Bennett 0-12 (0-12 frees), Calum Lyons 1-2 were Waterford’s top scorers in the  semi-final win over Cork.

Munster Hurling FInal: Limerick vs Waterford, Sunday, 15th November, 16:00 (Semple Stadium, Thurles). 

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Cork vs Tipperary: Hurling Championship Preview

Championship holders Tipperary suffered a first-round loss to Limerick in the Munster hurling championship.

As a result, they are in the qualifiers where a win will see them advance to the quarter-finals. Cork are the ones standing in their way. The rebels have an extra game played so far. Firstly, they lost to Waterford before going on to beat Dublin. The last time a team won consecutive Championships was when Kilkenny won in 2015. Tipperary left themselves much to do to replicate that feat by going down to Limerick a fortnight ago.

Cork bounced back from their opening defeat to Waterford with a 6 point win over Dubin last weekend. Kieran Kingston’s side were very impressive as they dismantled the DUblin challenge with precision.

It was a game where the sweeper system was on full display. Mark Coleman was Cork’s designated extra defender and he excelled. His positional awareness allowed him to snuff out Dublin attacks and his passing accuracy, in turn, put Cork on the front foot. Kingston may well opt to deploy such a system again against Tipperary given its success.

The Cork wing-forwards, Seamus Harnedy and Robert O’Flynn, proved elusive all day. Their success in the middle third resulted in five direct points and a constant supply line to the inside forwards.

Can the Premier Strike Back?

Last year’s Champions Tipperary looked tame in their first outing against Limerick. Jason Forde’s frees proved to be the main source of scores for them. In addition, they never threatened to stretch the Limerick defence, apart from when Jake Morris found the net in the first half.

Tipperary trailed by nine at half-time. When they began to show signs of a comeback in the second half, Limerick made a duel out of the middle third and their superior conditioning made sure they came out on top.

When John McGrath scored Tipperary’s second goal in the 55th minute, there was still never a real sense of them catching Limerick.

In a similar way, Tipperary lost the Munster Final to Limerick before going on to win the Championship in 2019. So, the holders may be down but they’re certainly not out. If the Premier County can return to playing to their strengths they will be at the business end of the Championship again. But, Cork will provide a tough challenge.

The game is live on Sky Sports Mix on Saturday.

Tipperary are 8/15 favourites with Paddy Power versus Cork’s 15/8. A draw is 9/1.

Prediction: Tipperary. But, Cork will be a tough test of their title credentials.

They meet in the championship for the 88th time, with Tipperary leading 40-38 in wins.  There have also been eight draws and one abandoned game. 

HOW THEY GOT HERE 

Waterford 1-28 Cork 1-24 (Munster semi-final) 

Cork 1-25 Dublin 0-22 (All-Ireland qualifier) 

** 

Limerick 3-23 Tipperary 2-17 (Munster semi-final)  

LAST FIVE CHAMPIONSHIP MEETINGS 

2019: Tipperary 2-28 Cork 1-24 (Munster ‘round robin’) 

2018: Tipperary 2-20 Cork 1-23 (Munster ‘round robin’) 

2017: Cork 2-27 Tipperary 1-26 (Munster quarter-final) 

2014: Tipperary 2-18 Cork 1-11 (All-Ireland semi-final) 

2012: Tipperary 1-22 Cork 0-24 (Munster semi-final) 

Stats and Figures

Patrick Horgan scored a total of 1-16 (1-8 frees, 0-1 ‘65’) for Cork against Waterford and  Dublin. Seamus Harnedy and Shane Kingston scored 0-8 each. 

Jason Forde on 0-10 (all frees) was Tipperary’s top scorer against Limerick in the semi final. 

Cork beat Tipperary two points in this year’s Allianz League. 

The winners will play the losers of the Leinster or Munster finals in the All-Ireland quarter -finals.

HURLING ALL-IRELAND SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS 2020 

LEINSTER 

Quarter-final 

October 24: Dublin 2-31 Laois 0-23, Croke Park. 

Semi-finals 

October 31: Kilkenny 3-20 Dublin 2-22, Croke Park; Galway 1-27 Wexford 0-17, Croke Park Final 

November 14: Galway v Kilkenny, Croke Park 

Hurling Championship Round 2 Qualifier: Cork vs Tipperary, Saturday, 14th November, 16:00 (LIT Gaelic Grounds).

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