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The Irish Premier League: who is in pole position?

The race for the Irish premier league has just begun, even at that, all clubs have proven in one way or the other why they are at the position they are presently holding. And in a few months, it will become clearer who wins it all and who goes out of the top-flight league. Currently, at matchday two, the league is still up for the taken. Here is how the league has been so far.

The Ireland Premier League is currently being topped by the unstoppable Shamrocks who came third last season. They have won two out of two games and have only let just a single goal in. Their first win came against the Waterford with a slender 2-1 win away from home courtesy goals from A. Greene and E. Boyle. Shamrocks Rovers also defeated Derry City with a positive exhibition and, adding to the 2-0-win, Derry City received a late red card which made sure they had no shout back in the game. 

Closely behind Shamrock rovers are Bohemian FC and St Patrick’s Athletic who are also yet to drop a point this season. The Bohemian FC has kept a clean sheet in the two games they have played and are only bettered by the goal difference of the Shamrock Rovers who have scored more goals than them. D. Corcoran is their present highest goal scorer having scored two goals in two matches.

Up there in the top is the St Patrick’s Athletic, who have also not let a single goal in this season. This can be attributed to their solid backline who are always on hand to deny even the very best goal scorers. If they keep their compact defensive exhibitions, one can expect them to be quite difficult to break for opposite teams. 

The winner of the competition last season Dundalk FC have not found the new season easier, presently holding the sixth position on the table with two unconvincing draws against Sligo Rovers, and another 1-1 draw against Finn Harps. We can only expect a better run from them in the coming week; it is worthy to note though that the league is still very much open for winning. 

While some sides are enjoying remarkable success, one of the top team has been finding the season very hard to cope with. Coming second last season, Cork City has failed to either score a single goal this season or to win a single game. They have been beaten both by St Patrick’s Athletic and disgraceful 2-0 by Waterford FC. This has left them in the bottom of the league looking for the way to the top. 

The University College Dublin who was the First Division Champion last season had found the Premier League tougher than expected. Having shipped in 5 goals in two games scoring none, they are probably on their way to the first division if things don’t change in a few weeks.  As of present, they have conceded more goals, and they are one of the two teams yet to score a goal this season. 

About individual figures, M. Drennan from St. Patrick and D. Corcoran, who plays are the Bohemians, are presently tied as the league highest goal scoresr with two goals in two games. 

It is important to note that at the end of the season, the league winner will be qualified for the UEFA Champions League where they will have the opportunity to compete against the top teams in Europe, but they will need to pass through three qualifying rounds to get into the group stages. The past July Cork City, 2017 season title winners, had to face polish champions Legia Warsaw and they were defeated both at home (0-1) and away (0-3). The irish team later fell down to second tier of European international football, Europa League, but they lost again at the hands or Norwegian team Rosenborg. The other irish team in this competition Dundalk FC, also left the competition very early, getting beaten 4-0 at Cyprus, after a draw at home against AEK Larnaca. The same Dundalk FC who in the season before was almost operating a miracle of getting into Champions League, after successfully passing two rounds but failed to do the last step by losing by an aggregate score of 3-1 against… Legia Warsaw.

It is unquestionable that work needs to be done and the Irish Premier League needs to take measures to be able to bring back moments of glory to Irish football. Also, let’s stay away from the polish folks who seem to be the favorite killer of Irish hopes and dreams!

Ireland name U20 side to play Wales

Ireland head coach Noel McNamara has named his U20 side to play Wales in the Six Nations Clash at Irish Independent Park on Friday. The side shows two changes from the team that beat Scotland last weekend 38-26.

In the forwards, Marcus Hannan is named at tighthead, while he will alongside Tom Stewart and Tom Clarkson in the front row. The second row will see Thomas Ahern partner Brian Deeny. The back row impressed against Scotland and remains unchanged here for this meeting. Therefore, Sean O’Brien, Mark Hernan and captain David McCann.

In the backs their is a debut for Ben Moxham on the wing, while Oran McNulty continues at full back. Hayden Hyde and Daniel Kelly continue the midfield partnership. Andrew Smith starts on the other wing. Jack Crowley is named at out half once more after his impressive showing against Scotland. His terrific try which can be seen below from that game. Lewis Finlay starts alongside him.

On the bench there is plenty of cover. John McKee, Harry Noonan and Charlie Ward cover the front row, while  Joe Ward and Cian Prendergast are also named as substitutes. Ben Murphy, Tim Corkery and Luis Faira cover the backs in terms of replacements. Speaking ahead of the game U20 boss Noel McNamara said, “We got things started on a positive note on Friday night in Cork and now that we are up and running in the championship”. He continued, “This Friday night presents a new challenge against Wales. “The players have worked hard during the week with the emphasis very much on ourselves and building towards this week’s game”.

The games takes place on Friday night. It is live on RTE from 7pm.

Ireland Under-20 side to play Wales : Oran McNulty, Ben Moxham, Dan Kelly, Hayden Hyde, Andrew Smith, Jack Crowley, Lewis Finlay; Marcus Hannan, Tom Stewart, Thomas Clarkson, Thomas Ahern, Brian Deeny,  Sean O’Brien, Mark Hernan, David McCann (captain).

Replacements: John McKee, Harry Noonan, Charlie Ward, Joe McCarthy, Cian Prendergast, Ben Murphy,  Tim Corkery, Luis Faria.

DCU win Collingwood Cup

DCU have won the Irish Universities Collingwood Cup. In the 100th staging of the tournament it was the Dublin college that came out on top against Ulster University in a penalty shootout at Dalymount Park. DCU winning 4-1 in the end.

It was both sides third game in a matter of days. The game was a tight contest. Dylan Connolly went close early on for DCU. He was found with a neat pass by Sean McCarthy but his low finish went wide of the post. Jack O’Connor probably had the best chance on the night with half time approaching. He made a good run beating Ulster University defenders  Nathan Best and Stephen Cairns. He then cut inside into the box, before rounding goalkeeper Matt McClurg and striking goal bound. However, his shot was taken off the goal line by Owen McConville.

The second half slowed in pace. This was probably due to the games played throughout the tournament. However, Ryan Connolly had a good effort on goal but it just went over the bar of McClurg. Taylor then had a free that also went over the bar. However, the deadlock couldn’t be broken and therefore extra time was needed. However, it remained scoreless in extra time and penalties were needed to determine the winner.

David Mugulu, Sean McCarthy, Tristan Noach Hofmann and Jack O’Connor all beating McClurg in the Ulster University goal.  However, it was DCU who go home with the trophy and are crowned the Collingwood Cup champions for 2020.

Player of the Tournament: Eric Whelan (DCU)

DCU: I Toth; R Smith, P Kelly, E Whelan, T Noach Hofmann; S Cronin, A Connolly (J Rice 99); S Trimble (D Mugalu 79), J O’Sullivan (D Sexton 59), S McCarthy, J O’Connor.

Ulster University: M McClurg; S Cairns, M Greenfield, O McConville. C Taylor; M McKenna, N McGinley; N Best (R Weatherhead 77), R Wilson, N Maciulaitis; N Beta.

What To Look For When Buying American Football Gloves

Football is one of those sports that expose players to sprains and other injuries regularly. The importance of wearing the right football gear keeps players protected from unnecessary physical pain and injury. We know how important wearing the right football helmet is—we see professional football players donning them during games. But wearing the most suitable football gloves should also not be ignored.

 

Football Gloves: For Protection and Performance

 

Being an athlete is not easy. You work hard to improve your skills. You eat right and exercise regularly to keep your body in top condition. But if you’re a football player, you should also invest in the right gear to maximize your performance and keep you safe during the game. 

The Internet holds a wealth of information on how to choose the right pair of football gloves. You should take the time to find a great review on the best grip football gloves. There are different factors to consider when buying football gloves. These questions will guide you on what you should look for when purchasing football gloves.

 

  1. Who will use the football gloves?

 

When purchasing football gloves, one of the most important factors to consider is who will use the gear. Remember to take the age of the player and the player’s position into consideration.

 

  • Age: It is not right to let a young football player wear adult gloves. Fit is critical in buying football gloves. The gloves should fit comfortably—it must not be too tight nor too loose. Youth football gloves are available at any sporting goods store. Football gloves for adults are naturally bigger than youth football gloves. It is crucial to buy this gear based on the age of the user to make sure the size, weight, and flexibility work for them.

 

  • Position: When it comes to football gloves, it is essential to choose a pair that is suitable for the position that you hold. Football is a position-based sport, thus your football gloves must help you handle your role in the game effectively.

 

  • Quarterback – As the primary ball-handler, you should choose thinner, lightweight gloves so that you have better control of the ball. Avoid football gloves with dense padding as it can affect your grip on the ball.

 

  • Lineman – In comparison to a quarterback’s football gloves, a lineman’s should have thick, durable padding. Linemen’s football gloves also have thick wrist straps to protect the player from impact and overextending their wrist.

 

  • Wide Receiver – If you’re holding this position, then your goal is to catch the ball and hold on to it. Receiver gloves must be flexible and have excellent grip support.

 

  • Defensive Back – The role of the defensive back is very physical, so their football gloves should have sufficient padding to protect them from impact. However, the defensive back’s gloves should not be too thick to prevent them from gripping the ball as needed.

 

  1. What features should football gloves have?

 

Playing football is fun, but it is also an aggressive and competitive sport. Your hands and fingers need to be protected from impact and injuries. Choosing a pair of football gloves must be taken seriously. The right pair can help you play better without worrying too much about getting hurt. The following features are what you should look for when buying football gloves:

 

  • Padding: Look for flexible padding that protects your palm and backhand. Depending on your position, you should look for football gloves that will protect your hand while allowing you to grip the ball comfortably.

 

  • Ventilation: Wearing football gloves with added ventilation helps your hands cool even when the game is getting rough. Choose a pair that uses mesh for better airflow to keep your fingers and hands from sweating too much.

 

  • Materials: Imagine wearing a pair of football gloves that break down while the game is ongoing. This is why buying a pair of high-quality football gloves matters because your performance and the safety of your hands depends on it. Avoid buying low-quality gloves for the sake of saving money. The best football gloves are made with sturdy yet stretchable materials.  

 

  1. Where should I buy football gloves?

 

You can purchase football gloves from a physical store or an online shop. Both sources have their pros and cons. Buying your football gloves online is more convenient since you can have them delivered right to your doorstep. However, purchasing them at a brick-and-mortar store allows you to try out the gloves before paying for them. If it’s your first time to buy football gloves, you should buy them at a reputable physical sporting goods shop. Your succeeding purchases can be made online since you already know what type of football gloves to order.

 

Conclusion

 

Football gloves are not accessories that you can choose to wear today and forget about tomorrow. These gloves protect you from injuries and also improve your performance on the field. While football is a beautiful sport, it can also be very dangerous if you are not wearing the proper gear.

 

 

Division 1: Meath v Mayo, Preview, Team News and live scores

Meath v Mayo takes place on Sunday in Pairc Tailteann, Navan at 2pm. We have a preview of the games, as well as team news and betting. If you can’t make the game follow our live match below.

Livescores.sportsnewsireland.com

Preview

Both sides are in serious trouble even only after two games. Andy McEntee’s men have two losses from two. A win here is a must for them, considering they will have to play Dublin, Kerry, Galway and Monaghan. They lost the first two games to Tyrone and then last weekend to Donegal losing 3-07 to 0-08. Meath will look to players like Thomas O’Reilly, Cillian O’Sullivan and Donal Keogan.

Mayo come into the game on the back of one loss and one draw from the two games thus far. They drew with Donegal in their opening Allianz League game thanks to a James Durcan goal. However, they once again lost out to Dublin last weekend 1-11 to 0-08. James Horan would have been rather disappointed with the performance. However players like Diarmuid O’Connor, Paddy Durcan and Fergal Boland.

Team News

Meath : Marcas Brennan; Robin Clarke, Conor McGill, David Toner; James McEntee, Brian Conlon, Donal Keogan; Bryan Menton, Ronan Jones; Matthew Costello, Bryan McMahon, Eamon Wallace; Cillian O’Sullivan, Thomas O’Reilly, Joey Wallace.

Mayo: Rob Hennelly; Padraig O’Hora, James McCormack, Brendan Harrison; Eoin O’Donoghue, Michael Plunkett, Patrick Durcan; Stephen Coen, Diarmuid O’Connor; Fergal Boland; Ryan O’Donoghue, James Durcan; Tommy Conroy, James Carr, Kevin McLoughlin.

Betting

Mayo are 2/5 favourites to win this game. Meath are 5/2 outsiders. The draw is priced at 15/2. I can’t see Mayo losing this. They should win by 3 or 4 points. There is no live coverage of Meath v Mayo. There will be highlights on League Sunday.

Dublin v Carlow: Preview, team news & live score commentary

Dublin v Carlow at Dr Cullen Park this Saturday, National Hurling League Division 1B.  Home side Carlow have an uphill battle on recent form.

CLICK HERE FOR LIVE SCORE COMMENTARY

Form
Carlow was defeated by Kilkenny  0-09 to 3-21  on the 2nd February whilst Dublin was defeated by Kilkenny 0-18 -3-21 earlier on the 26th January. The last season clash between the two ended with a win for Dublin. To date the Dubs have looked useful, this could be a big season for the county.

Carlow gained promotion 2 seasons ago and despite losing each of their matches to date, they have shown huge resolve and character. It is only a matter of time before the get the better of one of the bigger teams, but it is unlikely to be this weekend.

Team News

Carlow have yet to announce their starting fifteen for this match.

Players To Watch

Shane Kavanagh is the Carlow free taker and he can contribute much to his side this weekend.

Betting Advice:

Dublin are as short as 1/20 and while they should win, and win easily, this is a match to watch rather than have an interest in.

 

 

Click for More Racing News

 

Division 1: Tyrone v Kerry, Preview, Team News and live scores

Tyrone v Kerry takes place on Sunday afternoon in Omagh at 2pm. We have a preview of the games as well as team news and betting information. If you can’t make the game follow the below link for live updates.

Livescores.sportsnewsireland.com

Preview 

This game between old rivals promises to be a thrilling game. Tyrone have won one and lost so far this season. They beat Meath in their opening game 1-14 to 1-09 , before losing out to Monaghan last weekend. Mickey Harte will look to players like Darren McCurry, Ronan O’Neill and Peter Harte in attack. Players like Ronan McNamee and Tiernan McCann will be key players in the Red Hand defence.

Kerry are in fine form with one win and one draw from two games. The draw came against Dublin in the opening round of the league at Croke Park when it finished 1-19 apiece. They needed added time scores to secure the win over Galway last weekend but a win here would certainly set them up nicely.

Team News

Tyrone (FL1 v Kerry): Niall Morgan; Niall Kelly, Ronan McNamee, Liam Lafferty; Tiernan McCann, Rory Brennan, Peter Harte; Colm Cavanagh, Conn Kilpatrick; Kieran McGeary, Niall Sludden, Darren McCurry; Daniel Kerr, Frank Burns, Conor Meyler

Kerry (Allianz FL Division 1 v Tyrone): Shane Ryan; Jason Foley, Tadhg Morley, Graham O’Sullivan; Paul Murphy, Gavin Crowley, Gavin White; Liam Kearney, Jack Barry; Micheal Burns, Sean O’Shea, Stephen O’Brien; Killian Spillane, David Clifford, Paul Geaney.

Betting

Kerry are 4/6 to win this game, while Tyrone are 6/4 to win the game. The draw could be worth a bet at odds of 15/2. David Clifford at 6/1 to get the first goal looks a great bet. Kerry for me to win by 2 or 3 points. Tyrone v Kerry is live on TG4 at 2pm.

Farrell names team to play Wales

Ireland rugby boss Andy Farrell has named his team to play Wales on Saturday at 2.15pm in the Aviva Stadium. The team shows two changes from the side selected to start against Scotland weekend. We made our predicted team here on Monday and we weren’t far wrong.

In the front row Cian Healy, Rob Herring and Wexford’s Tadhg Furlong continue their partnership. The second row is also unchanged with Iain Henderson and James Ryan selected to start. Peter O’Mahony comes in at number 6, while CJ Stander switches to number 8 after Caelan Dorris is ruled out due to Return to play Protocols. Speaking of this Andy Farrell said, “He had a bit of a knock previously this year, we do the right thing by young kids and make sure they are treated properly”. Josh Van Der Flier also retains his place in the side.

In the backs Jordan Larmour is once again named at full back. Andrew Conway and Jacob Stockdale will occupy the wings. Johnny Sexton is once again at fly-half and will captain the side, he will be partnered by Conor Murray. In the centre Robbie Henshaw comes in to replace the injured Garry Ringrose, Bundee Aki is named once again.

On the bench Keith Earls returns from injury, while Max Deegan could make his Ireland debut also. Dave Kilcoyne, Andrew Porter and Devin Toner are also selected. Ross Byrne is named as the replacement fly-half, while John Cooney is expected to get game time once again.

Ireland come into the game with 2 World Cup warm game wins over the Welsh. However, when they last played in the Six Nations Wales romped to 25-7 win. Ireland will need to be at their very best if they are to come away with the win in my opinion.

Ireland: Jordan Larmour, Andrew Conway, Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki, Jacob Stockdale, Johnny Sexton (capt), Conor Murray; Cian Healy, Rob Herring, Tadhg Furlong, Iain Henderson, James Ryan, Peter O’Mahony, Josh van der Flier, CJ Stander

Replacements: Ronan Kelleher, Dave Kilcoyne, Andrew Porter, Devin Toner, Max Deegan, John Cooney, Ross Byrne, Keith Earls.

Video from Off The Ball.

Division 1: Dublin v Monaghan, Preview, Team News and live scores

Dublin v Monaghan takes place on Saturday night at 7pm in Croke Park. We have a preview of the game, as well as team news and betting. We will also be providing updates of the game from the below link.

Livescores.sportsnewsireland.com

Preview

Dublin have made another super start to the season. They drew with Kerry in the opening round of the league at Croke Park 1-19 to 1-19. Dessie Farrell this however get his first competitive win last weekend. His side beating Mayo at MacHale Park 1-11 to 0-08. Farrell will be impressed with the performances of several players including Ciaran Kilkenny who put in another man of the match performance. Dean Rock and James McCarthy also impressed and these will likely be pivotal players if Dublin are to win here.

Monaghan come into the game with 1 win and 1 loss under the belt. They lost to Galway in their opening game. However, they wontheir latest game last weekend against Ulster rivals Tyrone. They won 1-12 to 0-11. Conor McCarthy was absolutely superb knocking over 0-04 from play for Banty McEnaney’s charges. They will all need to be at their best here though if they are to beat the 5 in a row All-Ireland Champions in Croke Park

Team News

Teams have yet to be announced by managers. Once we get them we will post here.

Betting

Dublin are 2/9 to win this game, while Monaghan are 4/1 to come away with the win. I fancy Dublin to win this easily enough. Therefore backing to win by 4-6 points at 4/1 looks a great bet. Dublin v Monaghan is live on RTE Sport at 7pm.

Video – Farrell talks about Ireland Team v Wales, Saturday 2.15pm kick-off

Ireland Rugby Head Coach Andy Farrell has made two changes to his side to face Wales in the 6 Nations Championship at The Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

In the back-row Peter O’Mahony comes in for Caelan Doris who was injured in the early minutes of the game last Saturday. CJ Stander reverts to No. 8 with Josh van der Flier named at openside.

Iain Henderson and James Ryan start in the second row and the front row is unchanged with Cian Healy, Rob Herring and Tadhg Furlong all named.

Conor Murray and Jonathan Sexton will both reach significant milestones this weekend with the scrumhalf set to win his 80th and the captain winning his 90th cap.

The hand injury picked up by Garry Ringrose means that Robbie Henshaw will partner Bundee Aki in the centre.

The back three of Jacob Stockdale, Andrew Conway and Jordan Larmour is also unchanged.

The uncapped Max Deegan is inlcuded in the replacements which also sees the return of Keith Earls.

Ronan Kelleher, who won his first cap off the bench against Scotland, is named alongside Andrew Porter and Dave Kilcoyne, subject to him completing his Return To Play protocols this week.

Devin Toner, John Cooney and Ross Byrne complete the 23.

IRELAND Team & Replacements (v Wales, 2020 Guinness Six Nations Championship, Aviva Stadium, Saturday, February 8, kick-off 2:15pm):

Player/Club/Province/Caps –

15. Jordan Larmour (St Mary’s College/Leinster) 22 caps
14. Andrew Conway (Garryowen/Munster) 19 caps
13. Robbie Henshaw (Buccaneers/Leinster) 41 caps
12. Bundee Aki (Galwegians/Connacht) 24 caps
11. Jacob Stockdale (Lurgan/Ulster) 26 caps
10. Jonathan Sexton (St Marys College/Leinster) 89 caps Captain
9. Conor Murray (Garryowen/Munster) 79 caps
1. Cian Healy (Clontarf/Leinster) 96 caps
2. Rob Herring (Ballynahinch/Ulster) 9 caps
3. Tadhg Furlong (Clontarf/Leinster) 42 caps
4. Iain Henderson (Academy/Ulster) 54 caps
5. James Ryan (UCD/Leinster) 24 caps
6. Peter O’Mahony (Cork Constitution/Munster) 65 caps
7. Josh van der Flier (UCD/Leinster) 24 caps
8. CJ Stander (Shannon/Munster) 38 caps

Replacements:
16. Ronan Kelleher (Lansdowne/Leinster) 1 cap
17. Dave Kilcoyne (UL Bohemians/Munster) 37 caps
18. Andrew Porter (UCD/Leinster) 24 caps
19. Devin Toner (Lansdowne/Leinster) 68 caps
20. Max Deegan (Lansdowne/Leinster) 0 caps
21. John Cooney (Terenure College/Ulster) 9 caps
22. Ross Byrne (UCD/Leinster) 4 caps
23. Keith Earls (Young Munster/Munster) 82 caps