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Leinster Dominates Investec Player of the Year Nominations 2024

Leinster Dominates 2024 Investec Player of the Year Nominations

Leinster Rugby continues to showcase its dominance in the rugby world as several of its players secure nominations for the highly coveted 2024 Investec Player of the Year award. The list, featuring some of the brightest talents in the sport, highlights the exceptional performances throughout the season.

Among the nominees are familiar names from Leinster Rugby, including Caelan Doris, Jamison Gibson-Park, James Lowe, and Dan Sheehan, who have consistently delivered outstanding performances on the field. Their contributions have been pivotal in shaping the team’s success and securing their place among the top contenders for the prestigious award.

However, they face stiff competition from other exceptional players across various teams. Antoine Dupont of Stade Toulousain, Courtney Lawes of Northampton Saints, and Marcus Smith of Harlequins are just a few of the formidable contenders vying for the title of Player of the Year.

The judging panel, comprising esteemed figures such as two-time Investec Champions Cup winner Jim Hamilton, 2019 Rugby World Cup winner Francois Louw, and sports presenter Elma Smit, among others, faces the challenging task of selecting the ultimate winner from this illustrious lineup of nominees.

Reflecting on previous winners adds another layer of prestige to the award. In 2023, Gregory Alldritt of Stade Rochelais clinched the title, following in the footsteps of past victors like Josh van der Flier, Antoine Dupont, and Sam Simmonds. The Roll of Honour is a testament to the exceptional talent that has graced the rugby field over the years, with each winner leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

As anticipation builds towards the announcement of the 2024 Investec Player of the Year, fans and pundits alike eagerly await to see who will join the illustrious list of winners. The award not only recognizes individual excellence but also celebrates the collective effort and dedication of players who have raised the bar in rugby excellence.

“`wordpress
[roll_of_honour]
2013: Jonny Wilkinson (RC Toulon)
2014: Steffon Armitage (RC Toulon)
2015: Nick Abendanon (ASM Clermont Auvergne)
2016: Maro Itoje (Saracens)
2017: Owen Farrell (Saracens)
2018: Leone Nakarawa (Racing 92)
2019: Alex Goode (Saracens)
2020: Sam Simmonds (Exeter Chiefs)
2021: Antoine Dupont (Stade Toulousain)
2022: Josh van der Flier (Leinster Rugby)
2023: Gregory Alldritt (Stade Rochelais)
“`

Derry v Donegal – Preview, Startings Teams, Betting & TV details

Derry v Donegal - Preview and team news
Derry v Donegal - Preview and team news

Derry v Donegal Match Preview: Ulster Championship Quarter-Final

Saturday 20 April

Ulster Football quarter-final
Derry v Donegal, Celtic Park, 6.15pm –

GAA TV Coverage – RTE & BBC

Live scores for Derry v Donegal 

The Ulster Championship quarter-final between Derry and Donegal promises to be a captivating encounter as these two teams renew their rivalry for the third successive year. Derry have won the last two championship meetings, including a memorable victory over Donegal in last year’s All-Ireland ’round robin’ competition. However, Donegal will be seeking redemption and aiming to reverse their fortunes against the reigning champions.

Pre-Match Build-Up

Mickey Harte’s Perspective

Derry manager Mickey Harte acknowledges the pressure on his side as they aim to defend their Ulster title. After clinching the Division One title, Derry is aiming for a hat-trick of Ulster titles, but Harte is wary of the challenge posed by Donegal under the management of Jim McGuinness. Harte recognizes McGuinness’s managerial prowess and the quality of players at Donegal’s disposal, making them a formidable opponent.

Harte shared his thoughts on the upcoming clash, emphasizing the significance of the match and the quality of opposition his team will face. “We’ve seen what [Jim McGuinness] has done the last time he was in,” Harte said of McGuinness. “He organizes and motivates people very well. He’s a very astute manager and he has quality players there, players who were successful at underage and have matured into young Gaelic football athletes of the highest standard.”

Regarding the expectations on Derry as defending champions, Harte acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to handle the pressure. “Derry will be favorites because they’re champions of the last two years and that’s something they’ll have to manage to carry and be wary of what’s coming down the track,” he remarked.

Harte also highlighted the blend of experience and youth in the Derry squad, stating, “With Derry’s seasoned campaigners being ably supported by a growing cast of fresh-faced youngsters blooded by Harte such as Cormac Murphy, Diarmuid Baker, and Donncha Gilmore, many feel they have enough ammunition to end a 31-year wait for the county’s second Sam Maguire.”

Derry’s Resurgence

This year marks Mickey Harte’s 34th consecutive season in management, a testament to his enduring passion for the game. After a distinguished tenure with Tyrone, Harte has taken on the challenge of leading Derry, aiming to build on the team’s recent successes. Despite the pressure and expectations, Harte remains focused on his commitment to improving the team’s performance and striving for success.

Recent Form

Derry

Derry heads into the championship as the Allianz League Division 1 winners, having secured seven victories out of eight games. Their only defeat came against Dublin in the group series, a setback they avenged in the final by defeating Dessie Farrell’s men on penalties after extra time. Derry’s impressive form in the league positions them as strong contenders in the Ulster Championship.

Donegal

Donegal claimed the Division 2 title this year, winning seven games and drawing one out of eight. Despite their defeat to Derry in last year’s championship, Donegal remains a formidable force in Ulster football. With a talented squad and a hunger for success, Donegal will be determined to make their mark in this year’s championship campaign.

Head-to-Head Record

Derry and Donegal have a recent history of closely contested matches:

– **2023:** Derry 3-14 Donegal 1-15 (All-Ireland ‘round robin’)
– **2022:** Derry 1-16 Donegal 1-14 aet (Ulster final)
– **2021:** Donegal 0-16 Derry 0-15 (Ulster quarter-final)
– **2018:** Donegal 2-16 Derry 0-16 (Ulster quarter-final)
– **2015:** Donegal 1-9 Derry 0-10 (Ulster semi-final)

Derry’s recent dominance in championship meetings adds intrigue to this clash, but Donegal will be eager to turn the tide and secure victory against their rivals.

Match Outlook

The Derry v Donegal quarter-final promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams hungry for success. Derry’s potent attacking play and defensive solidity will be put to the test against Donegal’s resilience and tactical acumen. Expect a fiercely contested battle with high stakes, as the winners will advance to face Tyrone or Cavan in the Ulster semi-final.

As two of Ulster’s footballing powerhouses collide, fans can anticipate an enthralling spectacle filled with drama and excitement. The outcome of this match will be determined by the team that can best execute their game plan and handle the pressure of knockout football. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a memorable clash between Derry and Donegal.

Derry v Donegal - Preview and team news
Derry v Donegal – Preview and team news

Betting

Derry are very strong favourites and they have been playing at a different level this season. Expect Derry to win by 5/6 points.

Starting teams for Derry v Donegal 

Teams will be announced at 12pm Friday

Predicted Final URC table and quarter-finals 2023/24

Predicted results and final URC table, along with quarterfinal line up and Champions Cup 2024/25 qualifiers. 

Gonna be some huge games with one win maybe moving from 11th to 8th, also score difference could decide H Cup places.

(1) Leinster – Lions (1), Stormers (1), Ospreys (5), Ulster (5), Connacht (5)
– 71pts

(2) Bulls – Munster (5), Ospreys (5), Glasgow (5), Bennetton (5), Sharks (5)
– 70pts

(3) Glasgow – Sharks (5), Zebre (5), Bulls (0), Lions (1), Zebre (5)
– 65pts

(4) Stormers – Ospreys (5), Leinster (5), Dragons (5), Connacht (0), Lions (5)
– 59pts

(5) Munster – Bulls (0), Lions (1), Connacht (4), Edinburgh (2), Ulster (5)
– 55pts

(6) Edinburgh – Scarlets (5), Cardiff (4), Zebre (5), Munster (5), Benetton (1)
– 54pts

(7) Lions – Leinster (5), Munster (5), Cardiff (5), Glasgow (4), Stormers (0).
– 53pts

(8) Connacht – Zebre (5), Dragons (5), Munster (1), Stormers (4), Leinster (0).
– 49pts

(9) Ulster – Cardiff (4), Bennetton (5), Scarlets (4), Leinster (0), Munster (0)
– 48pts

(10) Bennetton – Dragons (5), Ulster (1), Sharks (0), Bulls (0), Edinburgh (4)
– 47pts

(11) Ospreys – Stormers (0), Bulls (0), Leinster (0), Dragons (5), Cardiff (4)
– 44pts

Quarter-Finals & H Cup places
Leinster v Connacht
Bulls v Lions
Glasgow v Edinburgh
Stormers v Munster

Entries for Grade One races at Punchestown festival 2024

Punchestown Festival Grade 1 Entries Unveiled: Top Contenders and Exciting Matchups Await

Introduction

The anticipation is palpable as the prestigious Punchestown Festival unveils its Grade 1 entries, setting the stage for thrilling showdowns and memorable moments in the world of horse racing. From Galopin Des Champs’ bid for glory in the Ladbrokes Punchestown Gold Cup to emerging talents vying for recognition, the festival promises an unrivaled display of skill, determination, and excitement. Let’s delve into the top contenders and exciting matchups awaiting fans at this year’s Punchestown Festival.

Galopin Des Champs Leads the Charge

Fresh off his impressive victory in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, Galopin Des Champs emerges as a formidable contender in the Ladbrokes Punchestown Gold Cup. Trained by the peerless Willie Mullins, Galopin Des Champs will face fierce competition as he seeks to add another prestigious title to his collection. With his electrifying performances and proven track record, Galopin Des Champs is sure to capture the hearts of racing enthusiasts as he navigates the challenging course at Punchestown.

Rivalry Renewed

Among Galopin Des Champs’ challengers is Fastorslow, his nemesis from previous Punchestown encounters. Owned by Seán and Bernardine Mulryan of the Ballymore Group and trained by Martin Brassil, Fastorslow poses a formidable threat to Galopin Des Champs’ quest for victory. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown between these two titans of the turf, as they renew their rivalry on the hallowed grounds of Punchestown.

Trainer’s Perspective

Trainers like Gordon Elliott and Nicky Henderson weigh in on their prospects for success at the Punchestown Festival. With a mix of seasoned champions and promising newcomers, each trainer brings their own unique strategy and expertise to the competition. From fine-tuning their horses’ training regimens to analyzing the competition, these trainers leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory at Punchestown.

Exciting Matchups Across the Board

Beyond the Ladbrokes Punchestown Gold Cup, the festival boasts a lineup of Grade 1 contests that promise excitement and drama at every turn. From the Boodles Champion Hurdle to the William Hill Champion Chase, each race features top contenders vying for glory on the grandest stage of Irish racing. With each race offering its own unique blend of talent and competition, fans can expect a spectacle like no other at this year’s Punchestown Festival.

Click here for Tuesday April 30th entries
Click here for Wednesday May 1st entries
Click here for Thursday May 2nd entries
Click here for Friday May 3rd entries
Click here for Saturday May 4th entries

Leinster Football is a ‘Shambles’ and Championship Restructuring needed

Colm O’Rourke Slams Leinster SFC as ‘Shambles’ and Calls for Championship Restructuring

Colm O’Rourke’s critique of the Leinster SFC extends beyond mere observation; it’s a pointed condemnation of the championship’s current state.

The term ‘a shambles’ encapsulates his frustration and disappointment, reflecting the sentiment shared by many fans and pundits alike.

Meath’s recent defeat to Dublin served as the catalyst for O’Rourke’s outspoken remarks, highlighting the glaring issues plaguing the competition.In his assessment, O’Rourke doesn’t absolve Meath or other struggling teams of responsibility. He acknowledges the lack of competitiveness from teams like Meath, hinting at the broader structural deficiencies within the championship.

This self-awareness adds weight to his argument and underscores the urgency for change.Central to O’Rourke’s argument is the call for a restructuring of the championship calendar. By advocating for provincial championships to precede the Allianz League, he addresses a fundamental flaw in the current setup.

The uncertainty surrounding fixture schedules and competition formats creates undue stress and confusion for teams, undermining the integrity of the competition.

O’Rourke’s proposed solution is straightforward yet impactful. By concluding provincial championships before the league commences, teams would have clarity regarding their objectives and pathway to the coveted Sam Maguire Cup. This clarity not only benefits top-tier teams but also provides much-needed direction for those in lower divisions, fostering a more competitive and equitable landscape.

Ultimately, O’Rourke’s critique goes beyond mere dissatisfaction; it’s a rallying cry for meaningful reform. His words resonate with those who share his passion for the sport and desire to see it thrive.

As discussions surrounding the future of Gaelic football continue, O’Rourke’s insights serve as a valuable contribution to the ongoing dialogue on how best to revitalize and rejuvenate the Leinster SFC and beyond.

4 Outstanding Perks of Playing Free Slots

Slot games are indeed thrilling, easy to play, and have high RTP. And that is why many avid casino gamers consider them a favorite. If you love slots and everything they offer, you should know that you don’t have to risk your hard-earned money to play. How so? The answer is free slots. 

Numerous casinos allow slots enthusiasts like you to play for fun with no commitment. All you have to do is find these platforms, sign up, and play without risking negative financial repercussions. By doing so, you’ll put yourself in a position to reap many perks, including the following:

1. Enjoy Risk-Free Gaming

Free slot games allow you to enjoy online gaming without putting your hard-earned cash on the line. Remember, other gaming options require you to wager some money. You can also lose your investment easily since slot games are primarily based on luck, not skills.

If you decide to play free slots today, you will expose yourself to reduced financial risks and protect your gambling bankroll from premature depletion.

2. Prepare for Real-Money Play

If you are a newbie in slot gaming, start your journey by playing free slots. These games will prepare you for real money sessions and give you a glimpse of what to expect. If you dive into real money slots without adequate preparation, you might panic, lose money, and worsen the situation by chasing losses.

While playing free slots as a newbie, you get an uncapped opportunity to learn the fundamentals of real money play and practice without fretting over financial risks.

3. Explore New Games

In the past, punters like yourself had access to a limited variety of slot games. Available options included traditional fruit machines and popular games like Double Diamond. However, technological advancements have made it easier for developers to release countless new games. Gamers can access next-gen options like Gonzo’s Quest and Irish Riches Megaways today.

The good news is you can try many new slot games today. And don’t worry about risking your funds. With free slots, you can explore as many new gaming options as possible and spend all the time you need to familiarize yourself with new slot machines.

4. Relax and Unwind

As a person living in the fast-paced modern world, the chances are high that you’re wrestling with many issues. These may range from mental problems like anxiety and depression to career frustrations and marital complications. Sadly, although you may try to unwind with casino games, it can be tricky since a situation that exposes you to potential financial losses will likely exacerbate your problems.

But don’t worry. If you want to relax and unwind without fretting over potential financial losses, free slots can help you to that end. Playing these games allows you to relax and relish casual gameplay without financial pressure.  

Final Thoughts

Playing free online slots is a splendid idea for numerous reasons. For starters, it’s the key to enjoying risk-free gaming and entertainment. Moreover, you can use free slot games to prepare for real-money play, explore new games, and unwind after a stressful day.

GAA Video Highlights – Dublin get result against in Meath

Dublin’s Dominance: A Comprehensive Analysis of Their Victory over Meath in the Leinster SFC Quarter-Final

Dublin’s journey in the Leinster Senior Football Championship (SFC) began with a resounding victory over Meath at Croke Park. In a match that showcased Dublin’s strength and prowess, they demonstrated why they are perennial favorites in Gaelic football. Let’s delve deeper into the key moments and performances that defined this quarter-final clash.

The Return of Legends:

The inclusion of stalwarts Stephen Cluxton and Michael Fitzsimons injected experience and stability into the Dublin lineup. Cluxton’s leadership and Fitzsimons’ defensive prowess bolstered Dublin’s resolve, setting the tone for the team’s performance.

Dynamic Midfield Duo:

The midfield partnership of Ciarán Kilkenny and Con O’Callaghan proved instrumental in Dublin’s success. Kilkenny’s vision and playmaking ability, combined with O’Callaghan’s explosive pace and finishing, posed constant threats to the Meath defense.

First-Half Showdown:

The opening period saw Meath putting up a commendable fight, with players like Darragh Campion and Ronan Jones showcasing their skills with well-taken points. However, Dublin’s composure and clinical finishing ensured they maintained a comfortable lead going into halftime.

Seán Bugler’s Impactful Goal:

Dublin’s first-half dominance was punctuated by a crucial goal from Seán Bugler, orchestrated by Ross McGarry’s deft flick. Bugler’s clinical finish underscored Dublin’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and seize control of the game.

Second-Half Surge:

As the second half commenced, Dublin continued to assert their authority on the match. Led by the dynamic duo of O’Callaghan and John Small, Dublin extended their lead with a flurry of points, leaving Meath struggling to mount a comeback.

Sublime Team Play:

Dublin’s success was not solely reliant on individual brilliance but also on their cohesive team play. Substitute Paddy Small’s instrumental role in creating goal-scoring opportunities exemplified Dublin’s depth and versatility, while the contributions of Cormac Costello and Cian Murphy off the bench underscored the team’s strength in depth.

Conclusion:

Dublin’s comprehensive victory over Meath served as a statement of intent as they embarked on their quest for yet another Leinster SFC title. With a blend of experience, skill, and tactical nous, Dublin showcased why they are considered the benchmark in Gaelic football. As they progress through the championship, their opponents will undoubtedly have their work cut out to dethrone the reigning champions.

List of runners, riders and weights for the 2024 Aintree Grand National

We have the list of possible runners for the 2024 Aintree Grand National. It will be run on Saturday 15th April.

Randox Grand National (Premier Handicap) 4m 2f 74y The Jockey Club announces today The Randox Grand National at Aintree Racecourse will have a new earlier start time of 4pm from this year.

Confirmation of the new time comes as a total of 94 horses were entered for the 176th running of the world’s greatest steeplechase on Saturday 13th April at today’s noon deadline.

The switch from 5.15pm is one of several changes to the £1 million showpiece first announced nearly four months ago as part of an ongoing focus on equine welfare.

Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) 4m 2f 74y – 4:00pm, Aintree, Saturday 13th April

 

RANDOX GRAND NATIONAL FESTIVAL NEWS: PROVISIONAL DECLARATIONS FOR THE 2024 RANDOX GRAND NATIONAL

Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) 4m 2f 74y

4.00pm, Saturday 13th April

Current Going: Heavy, Soft in places

1 Noble Yeats (IRE) ts, p 9 11 12 Mr Robert Waley-Cohen Emmet Mullins Ireland Harry Cobden
2 Nassalam (FR) bl 7 11 8 John and Yvonne Stone Gary Moore Caoilin Quinn
3 Coko Beach (FR) bl 9 11 8 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
4 Capodanno (FR) ts 8 11 8 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins Ireland Keith Donoghue
5 I Am Maximus (FR) 8 11 6 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins Ireland P. Townend
6 Minella Indo (IRE) 11 11 6 Mr Barry Maloney Henry de Bromhead Ireland Rachael Blackmore
7 Corach Rambler (IRE) ts 10 11 6 The Ramblers Lucinda Russell Derek Fox
8 Janidil (FR) ts, p 10 11 6 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins Ireland Jody McGarvey
9 Stattler (IRE) ts 9 11 5 Mr R. A. Bartlett W. P. Mullins Ireland Mr P. W. Mullins
10 Mahler Mission (IRE) ts 8 11 5 Colm Herron & Rockview Racing Syndicate John McConnell Ireland Ben Harvey

11 Delta Work (FR) bl,ts 11 11 4 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
12 Foxy Jacks (IRE) p 10 11 4 Ms Rachel Carthy M. F. Morris Ireland Gavin Brouder
13 Galvin (IRE) 10 11 2 Mr R. A. Bartlett Gordon Elliott Ireland
14 Farouk d’Alene (FR) 9 11 1 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
15 Eldorado Allen (FR) ts 10 11 00 J P Romans & Terry Warner Joe Tizzard Brendan Powell
16 Ain’t That A Shame (IRE) 10 10 13 Mr David Maxwell Henry de Bromhead Ireland Mr David Maxwell
17 Vanillier (FR) ts, p 9 10 12 Mrs H. M. Keaveney Gavin Cromwell Ireland Sean Flanagan
18 Mr Incredible (IRE) 8 10 11 Paul Byrne & J. Carthy W. P. Mullins Ireland Brian Hayes
19 Run Wild Fred (IRE) bl 10 10 10 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
20 Latenightpass 11 10 10 Mrs P. A. Ellis Tom Ellis Miss Gina Andrews

21 Minella Crooner (IRE) p 8 10 10 KTDA Racing/Nick Courtney/Cillian Moran Gordon Elliott Ireland
22 Adamantly Chosen (IRE) 7 10 9 Watch This Space Syndicate W. P. Mullins Ireland Sean O’Keeffe
23 Mac Tottie ts 11 10 9 Steve & Jackie Fleetham Peter Bowen James Bowen
24 Chemical Energy (IRE) 8 10 9 Bective Stud Gordon Elliott Ireland
25 Limerick Lace (IRE) 7 10 8 Mr John P. McManus Gavin Cromwell Ireland Mark Walsh
26 Meetingofthewaters (IRE) h 7 10 8 Mr John P. McManus W. P. Mullins Ireland Daniel Mullins
27 The Goffer (IRE) ts 7 10 8 Mr Allan Snow Gordon Elliott Ireland
28 Roi Mage (FR) 12 10 8 Pryde/Van Der Hoeven/McGladery/Beaumont Patrick Griffin Ireland James Reveley
29 Glengouly (FR) 8 10 7 Roaringwater Syndicate W. P. Mullins Ireland M. J. M. O’Sullivan
30 Galia des Liteaux (FR) p 8 10 7 Mr Michael Ariss Dan Skelton Harry Skelton

31 Panda Boy (IRE) p 8 10 7 Old Pals Partnership Martin Brassil Ireland
32 Eklat de Rire (FR) 10 10 7 Mr P. Davies Henry de Bromhead Ireland Darragh O’Keeffe
33 Chambard (FR) 12 10 7 David & Carol Shaw Venetia Williams Miss Lucy Turner
34 Kitty’s Light ts, p 8 10 7 R J Bedford & All Stars Sports Racing Christian Williams Jack Tudor

34 runners
26 Irish-trained

Eliminated
Malina Girl (IRE), Desertmore House (IRE), Kinondo Kwetu, Shakem Up’arry (IRE), Ontheropes (IRE), Fakir d’Alene (FR), Annual Invictus (IRE), Amirite (IRE), Tullybeg (IRE), Iron Bridge (IRE), Cepage (FR), Famous Bridge (IRE), Frontal Assault (IRE), Good Boy Bobby (IRE), Tommie Beau (IRE), Where It All Began (IRE)

Three Grand National horses to follow as rain descends on Aintree

Last year’s Grand National may have been marred by protests, but it looks increasingly likely that the 2024 running of the famous race will be affected by a more traditional British problem – the weather.

With the official going at Aintree currently being described as ‘soft, heavy in places’, and Storm Kathleen expected to batter the area in the build up to the Festival, owners and trainers alike will have to take difficult decisions as to whether to pull their horses out of the race at the final moment.

But while the bad weather spells problems for many, there are a few mudlarks that’ll absolutely revel in the difficult conditions. Here are three Grand National runners to keep a close eye on if the poor weather extends deep into the week.
Nassalam

Nassalam really came to everyone’s attention as a potential Grand National winner in December. Having already won the Welsh National trial on heavy Chepstow ground earlier in the month, he went on to dominate the Welsh Grand National too. Nassalam took a field of 19 horses apart, winning by a remarkable 34 lengths, so don’t be put off by his more recent showing at Cheltenham.
Delta Work

Many watchers of the Grand National will already be familiar with Delta Work, given he came home third in the 2022 running of the famous race. He followed that impressive showing up with a big win at the Cheltenham Festival, securing the Cross Country Chase in 2023 on soft ground. Detractors may say he’ll be past his best as an 11 year old, but the cancellation of this year’s Cross Country Chase ensures Delta Work will head to Aintree fresher than in previous years.
I Am Maximus

Of all this year’s Grand National favourites, I Am Maximus could be the one to benefit most from softer ground. None of his last 11 runs have been on ground better than soft, so a sapping four miler at Aintree should prove far less daunting than for many of his rivals. Irish horse racing fans may recall I Am Maximus winning the 2023 Irish National on soft ground at Fairyhouse, and he was most recently seen taking the Bobbyjo Chase by 14 lengths under soft to heavy conditions.

Dummies Guide to GAA – Basic rules of Gaelic Football & Hurling

Here is a Dummies Guide to GAA – Here at Sportsnewsireland, we have put together a beginner’s basic rules guide to GAA. 

Basic Rules:

If the ball goes over the crossbar but between the posts, it’s worth a point. If it finds the net it’s called a goal, which is worth three points. For example, if the score is 5-2 to 0-4, the first team is winning by 13 points. Such a big margin in Gaelic Football is a rarity though, which very few fans (mostly from Limerick) have had to endure.

Handballs are allowed and so are those dangerous looking sticks. Only the ladies are allowed to pick the ball straight off the ground without using their foot, which according to the scientists who designed the rules is an impossible skill for the fairer sex to master.

Players can pass by kicking and punching or hand-passing the ball. i.e. no throwing allowed. You’re allowed to hand-pass the ball over for a point but it is illegal to score a goal using this method. For counties such as Carlow, it is seemingly illegal to score a goal using any method.

Steps!:

This vitriolic battle cry will be howled from the stands. You may be asking yourself if the Brit Award winning Pop group of the late 90s have a cult following in Westmeath, but this is actually a plea to the referee to award their team a free. In Gaelic Football a player can only take four steps with the ball in hand before they must solo the ball (kick into their own hands) or bounce it ( but not twice in a row). If a spectator believes a player has carried the ball while taking more than the allowed number of steps, they will shout “steps!” at the man in the middle to let him know. If the referee fails to see the incident, it is often referred to as a tragedy. (No really, there’s no correlation.)

Croke Park:

Some of the more passionate fans argue that the GAA transcends sport, and for a lot of people it serves as their religion. For the believers, Croke Park is their Mecca. A couple of times a year, GAA fans from the length and breadth of the country make their pilgrimage to the famous stadium in the nation’s capital to witness the holy war that is the All Ireland final. The baying public in the stands witness the bloodshed and carnage on the pitch as the soldiers do battle, vying for the accolades and the bragging rights for their county.

The pitch at Croke Park is sacred ground. It is where legends are born and champions drink from the sweet cup of glory. The fact that it acts as a venue for One Direction concerts in the off season does not tarnish its sanctity.

Square ball: It sounds like an oxymoron, but I can assure you it isn’t. This is a technical foul in Gaelic football where an attacking player is inside the small rectangle in front of goals at the moment the ball enters the small square. As of 2012, it only applies when the ball is kicked from a set piece. A free out is awarded to the defending team in this scenario. If you haven’t got the grasp of it yet, do not worry. The rule is as complex to understand as it is infuriatingly difficult to explain.

Black Card: This accompanies the yellow and red cards in the referee’s pocket. It is reserved for cynical fouls including tripping, pulling down and body checking. If a player receives a Black Card they are ordered off the pitch for the rest of the game but their team is allowed to bring on a substitute as a replacement. Receiving a Black Card does not mean that a player has been sentenced to death, as a recent episode of Gift Grub might have you believe.

Rivalries:

In hurling there is a massive variation in the major rivalries which includes Kilkenny vs Tipperary, Kilkenny vs Cork and Tipperary vs Cork. While in football the main rivalries are Dublin vs Meath, Galway v Mayo, Cork vs Kerry, Armagh vs Tyrone and Longford vs success.

List of GAA Rule Changes for 2020 

(1) Two Tier Championship

Counties competing in Division 3 and 4 of the Allianz League for 2021 will not contest the All-Ireland Football Championship. They may play in it if they reach their respective provincial final. This will lead to the bottom 16 teams of the league playing in an as-yet-unnamed second-tier competition.

(2) GAA Mark

Players who take a ‘mark’ or clean possession inside the oppositions 45 will be rewarded with a free-kick. Players can choose to play on or signal to the referee that they wish to take the free instead. This can be brought back to the 13m line for balls caught between there and the end line. The proposal, which was trialed in the 2019 League.

(3) GAA Sin Bin

If a player gets a black card they will now spend will spend 10 minutes off the field. No substitute allowed, reducing his side’s numbers for that period. A second black card, or a black following a yellow, will result in a red card. The player will sent off for the rest of the match.

(4) New GAA kick out rules

To try and avoid all the short kick-outs. All kick-outs must now be taken from the 20-metre line rather than the current mark of the 13m line. The ball must travel forward and all players must be at least 13m away and outside the D and 20m line when the kick is taken.