Second stage win for Wout van Aert as Sam Bennett loses green jersey

Wout van Aert won explosive stage seven of the Tour de France to Lavaur as Adam Yates held on to the yellow jersey of race leader.

Van Aert of Jumbo-Visma became the first rider to win two stages in the 107th Tour de France as he outsprinted Edvald Boasson Hagen (NTT) and Bryan Coquard (B&B) in Lavaur after a fierce battle.

It was a double victory for van Aert’s team after they helped to split the 168 kilometres stage with just over 40km to go in a move that saw them work with rivals Ineos Grenadiers as both teams looked to exploit the opposition in the crosswinds.

Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) and Mikel Landa (Bahrain McLaren) both missed the split and would lose well over a minute at the finish but they weren’t the only riders to see their General Classification bids dented with the Trek-Segafredo duo of Richie Porte and Bauke Mollema both missing out. Richard Carapaz, also lost time after he was forced to drop back after a late mechanical on a day that also saw the peloton fracture as early as the first climb due to extensive pressure from Peter Sagan and his Bora-hansgrohe team.

Sagan, for all the effort from his team, could only manage 12th at the line after getting boxed in and being forced to slow. His consolation came from the fact that he now leads the green jersey by nine points ahead of Sam Bennett.

Bennett finished a tough day empty handed, part of a group that finished more than 10 minutes down on the road. That means that Sagan, who began the day trailing Bennett by 12 points in the fight for green, now leads the category by nine.

Nicolas Roche is the leading Irish rider on general classification, 27 minutes 53 seconds down in 54th place, while Dan Martin is 72nd, nearly 14 minutes behind his cousin.

New Zealand Rugby: North vs South Battle Reignited

The successful return of New Zealand Rugby continues this weekend. In June, professional sport in New Zealand returned. In fact, it even had stadiums full of fans. Indeed, the country’s management of the Coronavirus pandemic allowed had just rewards.

Since then, the entire Super Rugby Aotearoa tournament has been played. This one-off competition featured New Zealand Rugby’s five teams. It may have only been intended to fill the void left by this year’s cancellations, but it was extremely successful. In the end, the Crusaders came out winners after seriously impressive performances.

This North vs South Island battle first appeared in 1897. Formally, it was an annual fixture. After 1986 though, it has rarely come around. 2012 was the last time it was played.

After the disappointment of the 2019 World Cup, New Zealand rugby is in transition. Firstly, Steve Hansen stepped down. He was replaced by Ian Foster. Secondly, a team that had been much unchanged in years is in need of new blood.

In fact, it was Foster himself who chose the two squads with help from his selectors. It has not been confirmed whether the international team will play in 2020 yet. However, the coaches had the advantage of using the club games played to look at players. Nonetheless, this is another chance to make notes.

Match-Ups

The squads have revealed some delicious match-ups. Firstly, the battle for out-half resumes. The 2016 and 2017 Player of the Year Beauden Barrett returns to his preferred position. In the World Cup he largely featured at full-back. Consequently, there has been a huge debate over where he should play.

The man keeping him back is Crusader Richie Mo’Unga. His form during 2020 has made him undroppable. They line out on opposite sides on Saturday.

Barrett will be linking up with TJ Perenara who gets the nod at 9. He has a chance to lay down the gauntlet to Aaron Smith.

The North has a backline that any international team would kill for. There is lightning pace along the back with McKenzie, Reece, and Clarke. This compliments Lienert-Brown and Ioane’s power in midfield.

Yet, the South’s backline is more than capable in its own right. Crusaders Will Jordan and George Bridge deservedly get a place on the wings. They’re joined by the versatile Jordie Barrett.

The Crusaders’ club form is further reflected in the pack. Nepo Laulala is the only non-Crusader in the first 5.

Kick-off is at 8.10 am Irish time. For those willing to get up, Sky Sports Main Event is the place to watch it. Otherwise, it will be repeated on Sky Sports Arena at 2.30 pm.

New Zealand Rugby – North vs South Teams:

North: 15 Damian McKenzie, 14 Sevu Reece, 13 Rieko Ioane, 12 Anton Lienert-Brown, 11 Caleb Clarke, 10 Beauden Barrett, 9 TJ Perenara. 1 Karl Tu’inukuafe 2 Asafo Aumua, 3 Ofa Tuungafasi, 4 Patrick Tuipulotu (c), 5 Tupou Vaa’i, 6 Akira Ioane, 7 Ardie Savea, 8 Hoskins Sotutu.

Replacements: 16 Ash Dixon, 17 Ayden Johnstone, 18 Angus Ta’avao, 19 Scott Scrafton, 20 Dalton Papalii, 21 Aaron Smith, 22 Peter Umaga-Jensen, 23 Mitchell Hunt.

South: 15 Jordie Barrett, 14 Will Jordan, 13 Brayden Ennor, 12 Jack Goodhue, 11 George Bridge, 10 Richie Mo’unga, 9 Brad Weber. 1 Joe Moody, 2 Codie Taylor, 3 Nepo Laulala, 4 Samuel Whitelock (c), 5 Mitchell Dunshea, 6 Shannon Frizell, 7 Tom Christie, 8 Tom Sanders.

Replacements: 16 Liam Coltman, 17 George Bower, 18 Tyrel Lomax, 19 Manaaki Selby-Rickit, 20 Dillon Hunt, 21 Finlay Christie, 22 Josh Ioane, 23 Leicester Faingaanuku.

Class of 2020#NorthvSouth pic.twitter.com/KmWPAlbfq0

— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) September 4, 2020

https://twitter.com/AllBlacks/status/1301814760963559424

http://34.245.76.62/rugby/video-new-heineken-champions-cup-rugby-format-explained/

Underwriting Exchange Grand Prix League at Portmore on Saturday

Some of the country’s top showjumpers will be in action in the Underwriting Exchange Grand Prix League at Portmore Equestrian on Saturday.

With only three rounds of the competition remaining, riders will go in search of crucial extra points in the Bluegrass Horsefeeds-sponsored class worth €4,000.

With the top four contenders in the Underwriting Exchange League all due to contend in Portmore exciting action is expected tomorrow.

Current leader Jonathan Smyth and Crystal Tom lead the competition on 38 points, having shown great consistency in securing three wins and a second-place finish.

The reigning National Grand Prix Champion, Liam O’ Meara and Curraghgraigue Jack Take Fligh, are hot on Smyth’s heels on 30 points, while in third place is Derek Mc Connell and Dothraki Warlord sit on 28 points. Despite both of these riders failing to register a win in the competition so far this season, they have been consistently placed throughout the rounds.

Mark Finnerty is on 25 points in fourth place, following a win and three other placings.

Winner of the round in Tipperary Equestrian, Joan Greene and Vivendi Tipperary are declared to jump on Saturday and will also be looking to gather extra points and will be one to watch.

In total, 47 combinations have been declared for this round, and of those 15 spots are occupied by young riders. Amongst the young riders on the list is Mikey Pender, Molly Hughes Bravo, Adam Carey, Annie Courtney-Cadam (JU/YR), Jon McEntee, Brendan Murphy, Katie Conlon, Kerrie Kerr and Mackenzie Healy (JU/YR).

Following his big win in the Irish Breeders Classic on Monday (5 & 6 yr championship), Kevin Gallagher will be looking to add to his record sheet. Gallagher has declared three horses to contest this round (Arcadia LVS Z (8 YO), ESI Star Struck, Flexability).

Ulster riders won’t let the win go that easily and amongst those to watch are Luke Campbell, Frank Curran and Kenneth Graham. The Army Equitation School will be represented by Captain Geoff Curran and Captain Charlene Kehoe.

How to watch Ulster vs Edinburgh plus match preview

We have how to watch Ulster v Edinburgh plus a preview of the match, Ulster has a big task if they are to add to their single League title.

Finishing second in Conference A, they’ve earned a semi-final against Edinburgh. The Scottish side trumped Munster to top Conference B. As a result they have the home advantage for this game.

How to watch Ulster v Edinburgh

Éir Sport 1 are offering this game live. Kick-off from Murrayfield is at 7.35 pm. Coverage begins earlier at 6.45.

Preview of Ulster v Edinburgh

Ulster have lost both of their games since rugby returned. Firstly, Connacht gave them a rude awakening in the Aviva. Dan MacFarland’s side had some good spells in the game. However, the westerners finished stronger for a 26-20 win.

Secondly, they fell to Leinster. With Leinster comfortably on top of the conference, Ulster were up against a rotated side. This went unnoticed though. They looked to be carrying a hangover from their previous defeat. As a result, they lost 28-10. This won’t be too demoralising as Leinster are very much the team to beat in the competition.

Ulster Squad Announcement

Billy Burns returns to captain Ulster at out-half with Ian Madigan an option off the bench. Also, John Cooney will hope to continue his form from scrum-half. Jacob Stockdale remains at 15 after shaking off a knock. Rob Lyttle and Louis Ludik are on the wings. On the other hand, Stuart McCloskey and James Hume continue their partnership in the center.

Alan O’Connor is the only change in the pack. He comes in to join Sam Carter in the second row. Eric O’Sullivan and Tom O’Toole surround Rob Herring in the front row. Finally, Matthew Rea, Jordi Murphy, and Marcell Coetzee complete the scrum.

📋 🅃🄴🄰🄼 🄽🄴🅆🅂

Ulster make 3 changes for tomorrow night’s @PRO14Official semi-final against @EdinburghRugby at BT Murrayfield.

📺 Watch live on @PremierSportsTV, kick-off 7.35pm.#SUFTUM 🔴⚪️ #GuinnessPRO14 #EDIvULS

— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) September 4, 2020

https://twitter.com/UlsterRugby/status/1301837719081975810

The Opposition

Likewise, Edinburgh were table toppers in Conference B. Nonetheless, they were lucky to pip Munster.

In their own two games since the restart, they have beaten and lost to rivals Glasgow. For starters, they won 30-15. Then, they were deservedly defeated at home 15-3.

Head Coach Richard Cockerill was happy to see the game as preparation ahead of this weekend. “We have to look at the bigger picture of next Saturday and a semi-final.”

This will be Éir Sport 1’s second Pro14 semi-final of the weekend. They are also covering the Leinster and Munster tie at 19.35 on Friday night.

What a weekend ahead 🏉🏉🏉#GuinnessPRO14 pic.twitter.com/tewRFTOwmi

— eir Sport (@eirSport) September 2, 2020

https://twitter.com/eirSport/status/1301179335492198405

http://34.245.76.62/rugby/rugby_irish/video-new-heineken-champions-cup-rugby-format-explained/

This Weekend’s Live GAA Preview

Saturday 5 December

All-Ireland Football semi-final
Dublin v Cavan, Croke Park, 5.30pm – RTÉ

All-Ireland Ladies Junior Football final
Fermanagh v Limerick, Parnell Park, 4pm – TG4

All-Ireland Intermediate Camogie Final
Antrim v Down, Kingspan Breffni, 3.45pm – RTÉ Newsnow

All-Ireland Premier Junior Camogie Final
Armagh v Cavan, Kingspan Breffni, 1.45pm – RTÉ Newsnow

Sunday 6 December

All-Ireland Football semi-final
Mayo v Tipperary, Croke Park, 3.30pm – RTÉ

All-Ireland Ladies Football semi-final
Cork v Galway, LIT Gaelic Grounds, 1.30pm – TG4
Saturday 12 December

All-Ireland Senior Camogie final
Galway v Kilkenny, Croke Park, 7pm – RTÉ

Sunday 13 December

All-Ireland Hurling final
Waterford v Limerick, Croke Park, 3.30pm

Joe McDonagh Cup final
Antrim v Kerry, Croke Park, 1pm

Saturday 19 December

All-Ireland Football final
Dublin or Cavan v Mayo or Tipperary, Croke Park, TBC

Dublin v Mayo (Well that’s what Mayo people hope)

Late Duffy goal gives Ireland a point

Bulgaria 1 Republic of Ireland 1

Shane Duffy played a captain’s role as his equaliser against Bulgaria in injury time gave the Republic of Ireland a 1-1 draw in their UEFA Nations League game in Sofia tonight.

A Bozhidar Kraev goal in the 56th minute gave Bulgaria the lead despite an impressive display from the Republic of Ireland before the new Celtic signing Duffy equalised with a powerful header from a corner to give his side a point.

With Stephen Kenny beginning his tenure as national team manager, the former Dundalk FC manager gave a senior international debut to 19-year-old Adam Idah, and also named new Tottenham signing Matt Doherty instead of Séamus Coleman, Callum O’Dowda started, while the Dubliner also chose James McCarthy for his first international game since 2016.

Bulgaria coach Georgi Dermendzhiev made numerous changes to the side that beat the Czech Republic in their last Euro 2020 qualifier with only keeper Georgi Georgiev, defenders Strahil Popov and Petar Zanev and midfielders Georgi Kostadinov and Kristiyan Malinov surviving.

Despite retaining possession well, showing some composure on the ball, and pressing impressively in the opening 45 minutes, the game was scoreless at the interval, as Aaron Connolly had the best chance for Kenny’s side during that period.

Bozhidar Kraev, who had been pretty anonymous throughout the game, broke the deadlock in the 56th minute. Nedelev sent a perfect pass up the middle for the unmarked Kraev, who has been played onside by Shane Duffy. The Bulgarian took a touch before slotting the ball low past Darren Randolph and into the net.

Just when it looked as though Stephen Kenny’s managerial stint would begin with a loss, Shane Duffy cropped up at the far post in the 93rd minute to score from a Robbie Brady-taken corner kick. Brady, who had won the corner, curled the ball into the Bulgarian penalty area, finding Duffy, who headed past goalkeeper Georgiev to claim the equaliser.

Final score: Bulgaria 1 Republic of Ireland 1.

Republic of Ireland: Randolph, Doherty, Egan, Duffy, Stevens, Hendrick, McCarthy, Hourihane, Connolly, Idah, O’Dowda.

Bulgaria: Georgiev, Popov, Zanev, Dimitrov, Nedyalkov, Malinov, Kostadinov, Ivanov, Kraev, Delev, Nedelev.

Bennett still in green as Roche wins stage 6 combativity award

Carrick-On-Suir’s Sam Bennett stretched his green jersey lead to 12 points over Peter Sagan in Thursday’s 191km sixth stage from Le Teil, as Alexey Lutsenko took his first career stage win on the mountainous trip to Mont Aigoual.

Bennett, who became the first Irish cyclist to wear the green jersey since Seán Kelly, gained six points on the day’s intermediate sprint to increase his lead over his current main rival for the jersey, Sagan. With Bennett set to spend a second day in green on Friday, he will match the feat of his fellow Irishman, Stephen Roche, in 1987.

“Wearing this jersey today was amazing, a lovely experience”, Bennett proudly admitted. “People applauded me, I heard my name as the stage progressed, and to see the support I got was just beautiful. Coming into the Tour it wasn’t a goal, but it would be a huge honour to win it. I know it’s still a long way to Paris and a lot of work has to be put in to conquer this jersey, but I will take it day by day and see what happens”, the Waterford rider said of his first day’s experience of wearing the green jersey.

The day’s eight-man breakaway included Team Sunweb’s Nicolas Roche, who won two King of the Mountain points before a difficult finish, which saw the group splinter on the day’s principal climb, the Col de la Lusette, late in the 191km stage from Le Teil.

Roche, who won the stage’s combativity award as the day’s most aggressive rider, is now third overall in the polka-dot rankings, on 11 points, behind leader Benoit Cosnefroy on 23 points and Michael Gogl on 12.

Nicolas Roche won the combativity award on stage 6 today. Credit: A.S.O./Pauline Ballet.

Adam Yates, who yesterday became the ninth Briton to wear the Tour de France’s yellow jersey, retained the race leadership following today’s stage.

Nicolas Roche finished 56th in the stage, seven minutes and seven seconds down on the stage victor Lutsenko and now finds himself in 44th place overall, 11 minutes and 59 seconds behind Yates.

Israel Start-Up Nation’s Dan Martin was 71^st today and now finds himself in 76th position in the general classification, almost 40 minutes behind the race leader.

Nations League – Ireland v Bulgaria – Preview & Starting team

Stephen Kenny was appointed Ireland manager almost two years ago. This Thursday its Ireland v Bulgaria, we have a preview and starting teams.

Ireland team v Bulgaria

Ireland will play in the competition’s second tier in a group comprising of Wales, Finland, and Bulgaria. Thursday is the competition’s opening round. Three days later Ireland host Finland in Dublin. The Nations League offers the former Dundalk a coach a chance to make his mark.

After a long break, Ireland have a busy autumn schedule. Nations League games appear in September, October and November. As well as this the Euro 2021 qualifier play-off against Slovakia is on the 8th of October.

Kenny will know the rewards that come from a good campaign here. Uefa Nations ranking currently have Ireland 20th. This puts them in pot 2 for next year’s world cup qualifiers. Staying there will yield a favorable draw ahead of next March’s fixtures.

⏰ 𝑪𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏…#NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/MaMFNvDbth

— UEFA Nations League (@EURO2020) August 31, 2020

New Blood for Ireland

There will be chances for Kenny to experiment with his squad here. The quick turnaround between games will mean plenty of minutes for players. Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Kenny admitted that “Places are up for grabs”. Younger players such as Jayson Molumby and Aaron Connolly will take that as a challenge to be accepted. The likes of Adam Idah and Michael Obafemi could also get minutes.

Kenny has given call-ups to West Brom’s Dara O’Shea and Preston’s Sean Maguire. Defender O’Shea captained the Irish u-21s under Kenny. “His ability to play the four positions is an asset” said the manager. Maguire meanwhile comes in after Troy Parrott picked up an injury while on club duty with Milwall.

Kenny’s familiarity with younger players is reason for excitement. In the next few months we can expect to see new faces in the international set up. This competition for places will be healthy for the Irish team.

Ireland hope to replicate their 3-1 win over Bulgaria last September. This time you may see new names to get on the scoresheet.

Ireland v Bulgaria Teams – Predicted XI

Ireland: Randolph, Doherty, Duffy, Egan, Stephens, McCarthy, Hourihane, Robinson, Hendrick, Brady, Long (4-2-3-1)

Stephen Kenny’s men are 11/8 with BETPAT football betting to secure a first win for the former Dundalk manager. Bulgaria is 5/2 to pull off the shock.

Fantasy Premier League Football Top Picks 20/21 – Defenders

When it comes to Fantasy Football, defenders are often the hardest to score points with. With this in mind, we’ll try to find the players with a balance of attacking and defending.

5. Lewis Dunk (Brighton)

A good run of form after the restart ensured Brighton will remain in the Premier League. Dunk was a huge part of this. At the heart of the defence, Dunk contributed at both ends of the pitch. He racked up 128 points in 36 games. Brighton ended the season 9 clean sheets. Contrastingly, he had a tally and 3 goals and 3 further assists. For a central defender he can get you points many ways. Good value at £5 million. However, Brighton have some tough games early on.

4. Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa)

Jack Grealish received most of the plaudits for Villa’s survival. At the back though, Mings has grown into his role. He is becoming a Premier League journeyman. This fact will stand to him in the coming seasons. £5 million is a humble price, but Mings could only become more valuable. A threat going forward, it’s entirely possible that he’ll add to his 2 goals last season.

3. Reece James (Chelsea)

The young Chelsea right-back burst onto the scene last season. One of England’s rising stars, expect him to push on in 2020/21. For instance, he’s strongly backed to make the right-back position his own under Lampard. With the major additions to Chelsea this summer, James could add to the 2 assists he got last season. Another could buy at £5 million.

2. Matt Doherty (Tottenham)

Spurs’ new signing has been hailed as a great one. Doherty is Premier League proven and Wolves will miss him. With 4 goals and 8 assists, he’s one of the best-attacking defenders in the League. A Fantasy Football favorite, his £6 million price tag could rise during the season. Of course, his defending is just as good. He accumulated 12 clean sheets last season. Deployed correctly, Mourinho could have the best of both worlds with Doherty.

1. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)

Obviously. The youngster had 210 points last season. 29 ahead of teammate Robinson in second. Alexander-Arnold featured in all 38 League games. As a result, Fantasy Football players benefitted. 4 goals and 15 assists is a better return than most midfielders. His crossing is deadly. Furthermore, he has become something of a set-piece specialist. Overall, he’s worth the £7.5 million price tag.

Proud. #PLAwards pic.twitter.com/zi6gxqhEVT

— Trent Alexander-Arnold (@trentaa98) August 14, 2020

https://twitter.com/trentaa98/status/1294236416038273024

http://34.245.76.62/soccer/transfer-news-shane-duffy-signs-with-celtic/

Fantasy Premier League Football Top Picks & Tips 20/21 – Forwards

Firstly, forwards score goals. Secondly, goals lead to points. As a result, it’s important that your attacking line is right. Here are 5 to consider when choosing your Fantasy Football forwards.

5. Rodrigo (Leeds)

Leeds have finally returned to the top flight. Led by Marco Bielsa, they’ll be hoping to show what the League has been missing. Accordingly, Bielsa has brought in Spanish striker Rodrigo to bolster the attack. Signed from Valencia, he is a proven goalscorer. For £6 million, he’s a worthy inclusion. Bielsa’s tactics will set up the team favorably. Rodrigo should profit from this.

✍️ #LUFC are delighted to announce the signing of Rodrigo from Valencia for a club record transfer fee

— Leeds United (@LUFC) August 29, 2020

https://twitter.com/LUFC/status/1299618539813265408

4. Timo Werner (Chelsea)

Likewise, Werner joins the Premier League this season. Lampard signed the much sought-after striker from RB Leipzig for £48 million. In Fantasy Football, he’ll cost you £9.5 million. Chelsea have added a plethora of attacking options this summer. Werner will no doubt rack up points as a result.

3. Raúl Jiménez (Wolves)

A reliable contributor among Premier League forwards. The Mexican played in all 38 League games last season. This yielded 17 goals and 7 assists. With this in mind, £8.5 million is a modest price tag. Apart from Man City in Gameweek 2, Wolves have a kind opening schedule where he could score early points.

2. Jamie Vardy (Leicester)

Last season’s top scorer. It’ll cost a cool £10 million to avail of his services. Being 33 has not slowed Vardy down. His form has Leicester back among the top teams competing for Europe. Equally as important, he has a decent team around him. When you’re in the market for marquee forwards, you could do worse than to add this prolific scorer.

1. Harry Kane (Spurs)

Finally, Mourinho’s main man is a Fantasy Football favourite. After a long injury last season, the England striker will make up for lost time. 18 goals in 29 games makes you wonder what a full season would have meant for him. He’ll cost you £10.5 million of your £100 million budget. When spending this big you want to be sure you’ll get the points. However, Mourinho has his team built around his talisman.

http://34.245.76.62/soccer/shamrock-rovers-v-ac-milan-in-europa-league/

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