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GAA announce Club Hurling Team of the Year

The GAA have announced the club hurling team of the year. Kilkenny and All-Ireland champions Ballyhale Shamrocks and Munster champions Borris Ileigh have 10 players between them on the team.

Ballyhale in fact beat Borris Ileigh in the club final earlier this year at Croke Park. The Kilkenny side have players like TJ Reid, Colin Fennelly, Evan Shefflin, Joey Holden and Darren Mullen on the team. The Tipperary champions Borris-Ileigh have goalkeeper James McCormack on the side, as well as defenders Paddy Stapleton, Brendan Maher and Dan McCormack. Jerry Kelly who had a super year is also named in the forwards.

Chrissy McKaigue from the Slaughtneil club in Derry is named in midfield. He is joined by Brendan Rogers who is named at wing forward. Rogers also picked up an award in 2018. Shane Cooney of the St Thomas’ club in Galway is named at wing back, while Dessie Hutchinson of Ballygunner is in the full forward line along with Carlow ace attacker and St Mullins club man Marty Kavanagh.

The awards will be presented to the players at a banquet on Friday night. The football equivalent of the awards were announced yesterday and these will also be presented.The club hurler and footballer of the year will also be announced. TJ Reid and Evan Shefflin are up for the award from Ballyhale, with Brendan Maher of Borris-Ileigh the other representative.

Club Team of the Year

1 James McCormack (Borris-Ileigh)
2 Paddy Stapleton (Borris-Ileigh)
3 Joseph Holden (Ballyhale Shamrocks)
4 Darren Mullen (Ballyhale Shamrocks)
5 Evan Shefflin (Ballyhale Shamrocks)
6 Brendan Maher (Borris-Ileigh)
7 Shane Cooney (St Thomas)
8 Dan McCormack (Borris-Ileigh)
9 Christopher McKaigue (Slaughtneil)
10 Brendan Rogers (Slaughtneil)
11 TJ Reid (Ballyhale Shamrocks)
12 Jerry Kelly (Borris-Ileigh)
13 Dessie Hutchinson (Ballygunner)
14 Colin Fennelly (Ballyhale Shamrocks)
15 Martin Kavanagh (St Mullins)

CLUB HURLER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

TJ Reid (Ballyhale Shamrocks)
Evan Shefflin (Ballyhale Shamrocks)
Brendan Maher (Borris-Ileigh)

Munster U20 Final, Kerry v Cork: Betting, Team News and live score updates

Kerry v Cork will meet in the Munster U20 football final on Wednesday. The game throws in at 7.30pm in Austin Stack Park in Tralee. We have betting and news below. We will have live score updates of the game also that is live on TG4.

Preview

Kerry come into this game on the back of beating Limerick 0-14 to 0-07 in the Munster semi-final last week. Kerry are now managed by John Sugrue who had a stint in charge of the Laois senior footballers. This will obviously be a tougher game for the Kingdom but if players like Killian Falvey, Sean Horan and Dylan Casey perform they will be tough to beat.

Cork played Clare in the other semi-final and they were narrow winners. The Rebels winning 1-12 to 2-07 in Miltown Malbay. Keith Ricken has kept faith with the same team so he obviously believes the 15 are good enough to beat Kerry. Players like Blake Murphy, Mark Cronin and Daniel O’Connell are key players.

Team News

Kerry: 1. Marc Kelliher (Glenflesk),2. Owen Fitzgerald (Gneeveguilla),3. James McCarthy (Kenmare Shamrocks),4. Dan McCarthy (Kenmare Shamrocks),5. Luka Brosnan (Castleisland Desmonds),6. Dylan Casey (Austin Stacks),7. Sean O’Brien (Beaufort),8. Darragh Lyne (Killarney Legion),9. Michael O’Gara (Austin Stacks),10. Paul Walsh (Brosna), 11. Patrick Darcy (Glenflesk),12. Killian Falvey (Annascaul),13. Paul O’Shea (Kilcummin),14. Seán Horan (Scartaglen), 15. Ruaidhrí Ó Beaglaoich (An Ghaeltacht)

Cork: 1. Josh O’Keeffe (Newmarket), 2. Colm O’Shea (Kilshannig), 3. Daniel O’Mahony (Knocknagree),4. Diarmaid Phelan (Aghada)5. David Buckley (Newcestown), 6. Bill Foley (Bantry Blues),7. Brian Lynch (Douglas), 8. Jack Lawton (Argideen Rangers),9. Daniel O’Connell (Kanturk),10. Jack Murphy (Éire Óg),11. Aodhán Ó Luasa (Naomh Aban),12. Brian Hayes (St Finbarr’s),13. Mark Cronin (Nemo Rangers – joint captain),14. Fionn Herlihy (Dohenys), 15. Blake Murphy (St Vincent’s – joint captain)

Betting

Not much to separate the sides in terms of betting. Kerry are 5/4 with Cork priced at 5/6. I fancy Kerry to win and also to be winning the game at half time. Kerry to be winning at half time is priced at 6/5.

Verdict: Kerry

Quinn hails Volunteers with 100 days to UEFA EURO 2020

FAI Interim Deputy CEO Niall Quinn joined former Republic of Ireland Women’s international Olivia O’Toole, UEFA EURO 2020 volunteers and tournament mascot Skillzy to mark the ‘100 Days To Go’ milestone in Dublin today.

Dublin will host three matches from Group E and one Round of 16 clash in June, in the world’s third largest sporting event. UEFA EURO 2020 is expected to reach in excess of 5 billion broadcast viewers in this, its 60th year.

With Poland and Sweden already booked into Dublin for the group stages, the final Group E team will be confirmed following the conclusion of the play-offs later this month with the Republic of Ireland vying for the final coveted place alongside Bosnia, Northern Ireland and Slovakia.

Over 110,000 supporters are set to visit Ireland this summer for Euro 2020 and Quinn believes that they will play a major part in showcasing the best of Ireland to the world.

Speaking in Dublin, FAI Interim Deputy CEO Niall Quinn said: “UEFA EURO 2020 will be an incredible showcase for Irish football, Irish sport and indeed the Irish nation and we are hugely excited to reach this significant milestone with 100 days to go.

“There’s a lot of hard work going on behind the scenes as Dublin joins the 11 other cities in hosting matches. The four matches to be held in the Dublin Arena will leave a lasting legacy for our game across Ireland.

“With over 1,400 volunteers already signed up by the UEFA EURO 2020 team and our partners in Dublin City Council, spanning more than 70 nationalities, it is especially fitting that we celebrate their involvement today. If you are interested in being a part of this exciting summer of football, there are still some places available so do get in touch with the Volunteer team.

“Volunteerism is at the core of our wonderful sport and their engagement and participation will greatly enhance the match-day experience for the tens of thousands of supporters who will descend on Dublin in June.”

Joining Quinn on the landmark day was fellow Dubliner Olivia O’Toole who is one of the Republic of Ireland’s most decorated international footballers and who scored 54 goals in a hugely successful 18-year career, from 1991-2009.

UEFA EURO 2020 will open on Friday, 12 June in Rome and will conclude with the final on Sunday, 12 July in London.

To be a part of the EURO 2020 City Volunteer Team visit: https://euro2020.fai.ie/2020/02/27/be-part-of-euro-2020-city-volunteer-team/

Dublin’s UEFA EURO 2020 Fixtures:

Monday, 15 June: Poland v Play-Off Winner B (5pm)
Friday, 19 June: Sweden v Play-Off Winner B (2pm)
Wednesday, 24 June: Sweden v Poland (5pm)
Tuesday, 30 June: Winner Group D v Second Place Group F (5pm)

‘He wants to prove there is still fight in him’ – Solskjaer

During this morning press conference talked about Wayne Rooney and gave an injury update on Paul Pogba.

Speaking about former Manchester United striker and team-mate Wayne Rooney, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, joked: “Wazza (Rooney) gave absolutely everything for this club [Man Utd] and every goal he scores against us will be chalked off his goal tally!

“He is a threat – set plays in and around the box and Wayne will show what he can do,” United manager Solskjaer added.

“He wants to prove there is still fight in an old dog!

“We have got to be on our toes and not give him any space in the box or in midfield.”

Paul Pogba injury update

“Paul’s still working with the physios outside,” says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, on midfielder Paul Pogba’s injury rehab porgress.

“He won’t be training with the first-team until next week, so then let’s see how long that will take. But he’ll need some time to train, to get his call it football fitness back.”

Massive financial loss for Aston Villa

It appears Aston Villa made a loss £68.3m in the 2018/19 season, a £30m increase from the previous year a record for a Championship side.

Promotion & Aston Villa Loss

Excluding promotion & other one off costs & income, Aston Villa made an operating loss of £84 million in 2018/19, it made £36m profit from the sale of Villa Park, £14.5m in HS2 compensation, £10.6m from player sale profits, paid £16m bonuses on promotion & paid £30m to Randy Lerner on being promoted. Turnover – down 20% to £51.4m as a direct result of £18.07m reduction in TV income (via reduction in parachute payment)

Cashflow

In terms of cash flow, the accounts show that Villa had £21.9m cash in the bank a substantial increase on the £2.4m recorded in 2018.

Turnover was down from £68.6m to £54.3m due to a reduction in TV revenue from parachute payments.

Sustainability rules

In a statement in the accounts, Villa’s chief executive Christian Purslow confirmed that the club had remained compliant with the EFL’s profitability and sustainability rules and remained confident they would pass the Premier League’s threshold.

 

Groupings and Fixtures for 2020-21 Nations Cup Football

The draw for the groups in the 2020-21 Nations Cup Football was straightforward because of the way the leagues and pots happened. There were no instances where teams who need to be kept apart – which sometimes happens for political or other reasons – can be drawn against each other.

League A for 2020-21 Nations Cup Football


Republic of Ireland will face Wales Bulgaria and Finlan

England drew Belgium, Denmark and Iceland

Scotland drew Israel, Slovakia and Czech Republic

Northern Ireland face Austria, Romania and Norway

When are the games?

Ireland’s fixtures
Thurs Sep 3: Bulgaria v Ireland
Sun Sep 6: Ireland v Finland
Sat Oct 10: Ireland v Wales
Tues Oct 13: Finland v Ireland
Fri Nov 13: Wales v Ireland
Mon Nov 16: Ireland v Bulgaria

Matchday 1: 3-5 September 2020

Matchday 2: 6-8 September 2020

Matchday 3: 8-10 October 2020

Matchday 4: 11-13 October 2020

Matchday 5: 12-14 November 2020

Matchday 6: 15-17 November 2020

Finals: 2, 3, 6 June 2021

League C relegation and World Cup 2022 play-offs: 24, 25, 28, 29 March 2022*

*in the unlikely event one of the teams who finish bottom in a League C group also qualify for the World Cup play-offs, the relegation play-offs will be cancelled and the two teams with the fewest points relegated instead

The Benefits of Betting on Football Predictions

When it comes to betting on a football match the chances of winning are fifty-fifty. Football plans place their bets by predicting the results of the games, hoping that the odds are in their favour. 

 

There’s a science to football predictions, to bet smart, follow today’s football predictions from football experts themselves. Having insights from professionals who study the ins and outs of the game will help optimize your chances of winning bets. 

 

How does football predictions help with betting?

 

There are a string of different variables that contribute to either the success or failure of a team. Being attentive is the key to predicting who has the slight upper hand. Staying attentive on a certain player’s performance or goal differentials are pointers to consider when placing a bet. 

 

To gain credible insight on today’s football predictions, people seek out professionals who understand the different aspects of the game and performances of each player. Enabling them to consider the team of their choice’s outcome will be. 

 

Variables to Consider Before Placing Your Bets

 

 

  • Ensure that the team has a solid bond

 

A team is only as strong as its weakest link, taking a look at how well the team works together as well as bond together as one is a good indication of how they will perform in the match. 

 

 

  • How does The Weather Affect the Their Performance

 

A major insight to consider is the weather. Rain or shine the game must go on. For example, when the weather forecast indicates heavy rains for tomorrow’s match, the football predictions today will take into account each player’s past performances, under the same circumstances. 

 

 

  • Get to Know the Team 

 

How a player and the team are as one is a determining factor that should be considered when making football predictions. One could get helpful insights after gaining a deep understanding and observe the interactions between each team member. 

 

 

  • Home Ground Advantage

 

The Betting Expert website points out, a football club’s performance will increase to +0.74 goal advantage when they are in their home ground. Therefore, if the team will be playing at their field there’s a guaranteed chance of winning. 

 

  1. Team Lineup

Football players come and go, to ensure that you’re betting on the right team for the season, taking a look at each player’s track record and give you a good idea of how far and well they’ll go. 

 

  1. Keep in Mind The Team’s Track Record

If you aren’t attentive of a team’s recent performances, taking a look at their overall track record gives a good indication of their performance. The number of wins and losses do lead to certain expectations from the team.

 

Although there’s not a hundred percent certainty that you will win the bet. The benefit of betting on football predictions is the number of ways you can up your chances at winning. Taking out time to properly understand the game and its players or invest in getting football experts to make it easier to place a bet on the winning edge.

Coleman to miss Slovakia game

Ireland defender Seamus Coleman will miss Ireland’s Euro 2020 play-off semi-final with Slovakia later this month. Mick McCarthy confirmed the news to the media on Wednesday saying the Donegal man will miss the next four to six weeks due to injury.

Coleman had to be substituted after 28 minutes in the 1-1 draw with Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday. Coleman appeared to be holding his thigh leaving the field. Speaking to RTE, McCarthy said, “I think Seamus is struggling for the games. He’s got a thigh strain, a strain or a tear”. I’m told it could be four to six weeks. That will put him out if that’s the case.

McCarthy said Matt Doherty will be his replacement. Saying, “Matt Doherty is doing great”. “I was at Fulham at the weekend and Cyrus Christie came on and was excellent. But the Doc’s great. He’s doing really well.” McCarthy also was speaking about Jack Byrne, speaking to the FAI website he said, “What did impress me on the night was Jack’s ability to see a pass and make the pass. Plenty of players can see a pass but Jack is able to play the ball as well and that was a key factor in the game”.

McCarthy will be delighted that some of his strikers are banging in the goals. Shane Long has certainly put his hand up for selection, while Scott Hogan, Michael Obafemi and Dave McGoldrick have also been getting goals. Speaking about this McCarthy said, “Our players are scoring at just the right time as we get closer to Slovakia,”.

Ireland will travel to Bratislava on March 26th to play Slovakia. If they win they face an away game against either Bosnia or Northern Ireland for a right to play in Euro 2020.

Olympics could be postponed

Japan Olympic Minister Seiko Hashimoto has said the the 2020 Tokyo games could be postponed from the summer until later in the year owing to the coronavirus.

He was speaking to the Japanese Parliament and referenced the contract Tokyo have with the International Olympic Committee which says the games have to be held within the year 2020. He said there’s room for the games to moved towards the end of the year.

BBC Report that Hashimoto said, “We are doing all we can to ensure that the Games go ahead as planned”. Furthermore, IOC President Thomas Bach has said the organisation is fully committed to hosting the games.

The IOC Executive board released a statement on Tuesday saying they are fully committed to hosting the Olympic Games in Tokyo. It said, “The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board (EB) today expressed its full commitment to the success of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, taking place from 24 July to 9 August 2020”.

It continued and stated that a task force has been established which involves organisations such as the World Health Organisation, the IOC, the Japanese Government and Tokyo 2020. It said,”The IOC EB heard a report on all the measures taken so far to address the coronavirus situation, which was followed by a comprehensive discussion.
“A joint task force had already been created in mid-February, involving the IOC, Tokyo 2020, the host city of Tokyo, the government of Japan and the World Health Organization (WHO). Dick Pound a member of the IOC has said a decision on whether games will go ahead or not will have to be taken in May. However, he did state, the games would only be postponed if there was a threat to health of the athletes and of course spectators.

 

UEFA boss says rules needs to change on racism

UEFA boss Aleksander Cerefin has said the rules regarding racism needs to change. The Slovenian addressing the UEFA Congress on Tuesday spoke about the sporting successes and great commercial success of the organisation also.

However, he did mentioned that racism has to be tackled and rules need to change on how racism is handled. He said a huge amount of work needs to be done. UEFA have come under serious pressure for not enforcing stricter penalties for fans that engage in such discriminatory behaviour.  Cerefin said, “Things need to change,”. He continued, “We must begin by applying the rules we already have. That would be a good starting point. That means applying the three-step procedure. We must not be afraid to do so. Everywhere. No exceptions.

Furthermore, he said that in the last three season UEFA have imposed 73 partial stadium closures, while also ordering 39 games to be played behind closed doors. He said, “In the last three seasons, the UEFA disciplinary bodies have imposed 73 partial stadium closures and ordered 39 matches to be played behind closed doors following incidents of discrimination.

He says, it shows the organisation is doing the job but more simply has to be done. In addition, He said, “That shows that we are doing what is currently in our power to do. But it also shows what a serious problem it is, and that we need to do more. More, and perhaps differently. So we that can be proud of ourselves once again.”

He said football should be celebrated. “Football is, above all, a celebration of life, community and unity. It’s an exchange. It’s about sharing”. “The problem is not on the pitch, where diversity is greater than in any other sport and probably any other part of society. The problem is in our societies. And this has to stop.”

It remains to be seen now whether tougher fines and bans will come in for racism at games. For instance Bulgaria when they took on England and engaging in racist behaviour were told they had to play one match behind closed doors. Bulgaria were only fined 75,000 euro as well. Harsher penalties need to put in place to end racism in sport. Players should also should stand together and say enough is enough and walk off the field.