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Hurling – Galway v Limerick – Preview, TV & Starting teams

Galway team to play Dublin
Galway team to play Dublin

Galway vs. Limerick – RTE 1, 1:30pm Saturday 

Galway’s path to the League semi-finals hinges on a victory against Limerick, coupled with the hope that Tipperary doesn’t secure an overwhelming win over Antrim. On the other hand, a draw would be sufficient for Limerick to advance. However, there remains a slim mathematical possibility that Limerick could miss out on the League Finals if they lose this match and Tipperary achieves a substantial winning margin over Antrim.

Commemorative Jerseys:

Galway adds a touch of history to their clash against Limerick by donning blue and gold jerseys, reminiscent of their 1923 All-Ireland SHC victory. This move honors the centenary of their historic triumph, bringing back colors worn during a pivotal moment in their hurling legacy.

Suspensions Shake Galway:

Galway faces a setback with suspensions to key players Daithi Burke and Conor Whelan. Their absence casts a shadow over Galway’s lineup, as they prepare to take on the reigning champions.

Limerick’s Strength:

On the opposite end, Limerick enters the contest with momentum on their side. The team has been formidable in the league, steadily incorporating players back into the fold. The return of team captain Declan Hannon adds leadership and experience to their lineup, further bolstering their chances against Galway.

League Implications:

Both teams have much at stake in this encounter. Galway needs a victory to secure their place in the League semi-finals, while Limerick aims to maintain their dominance and secure a favorable position in the standings. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both teams’ league campaigns. Galway must not only overcome the challenge posed by Limerick but also keep a close eye on other results to ensure their progression in the competition.

Teams:

Anticipated Showdown:

With tensions high and the stakes even higher, Pearse Stadium sets the stage for a thrilling encounter between two hurling powerhouses. Galway’s determination to overcome adversity and Limerick’s quest for continued success promise an intense and captivating spectacle for hurling fans.

Rugby Weekend Preview: Fixtures, TV Schedule, and Betting Predictions

Rugby Weekend Preview: Fixtures, TV Schedule, and Betting Predictions

List of live rugby matches on TV

Ireland vs. Scotland U20 Rugby, 7pm Friday: It’s going to be a night of celebration, and with the score difference possibly deciding the championship, expect Ireland to win by at least 35 points.

Wales vs. Italy, 2:15pm Saturday: This game will possibly decide the wooden spoon. Wales has shown glimpses of potential, and this is a game they will have been targeting. Italy got their win last week, which completely changes this game; Italy will have celebrated like they won a Grand Slam, so they could be there for the taking. Shock result with Wales winning by 20 points or more at 5/1.

Ireland vs. Scotland, 4:45pm Saturday: Let’s hope for some atmosphere in the Aviva; this is still a Six Nations decider. I’d expect a very messy, low-scoring game; conditions are going to be horrible. So, lots of scrums and the ball not in play much. Ireland probably sneak it by around 10 points.

France vs. England, 8pm Saturday: The French need to win this game a lot more than England. This could be really high scoring, and expect France to win by double digits.

 

Preview: Ireland vs. Scotland – Triple Crown and Six Nations Decider

Preview: Ireland vs. Scotland – Triple Crown and Six Nations Decider

In a high-stakes showdown at Aviva Stadium, Ireland hosts Scotland in a thrilling finale to the Guinness Six Nations. With Ireland eyeing back-to-back Championship titles and Scotland eager to prove their mettle, Saturday’s clash promises intense rugby action.

Ireland has triumphed in 18 consecutive home games and would secure the championship by avoiding defeat in Dublin. Scotland’s slim chances for the title vanished after their narrow loss in Italy last Saturday. Yet, Gregor Townsend’s team still has a shot at their first Six Nations Triple Crown following wins over Wales and England earlier in the tournament.

The defending champions are vying for a 10th successive victory over Scotland, whose last win in Dublin came in 2010.

Ireland’s Determined Lineup:

Under the guidance of Head Coach Andy Farrell, Ireland presents an unchanged starting XV, featuring a formidable combination of experience and skill. Led by captain Peter O’Mahony, the squad boasts the likes of Hugo Keenan, Robbie Henshaw, and Tadhg Furlong, offering both defensive solidity and attacking flair.

Scotland’s Quest for Glory:

Scotland, led by Head Coach Gregor Townsend, enters the fray with determination and purpose. With players like Duhan van der Merwe leading the charge, Scotland aims to capitalize on their attacking prowess and disrupt Ireland’s game plan.

What They’re Saying:

Townsend emphasises Scotland’s readiness for the challenge, highlighting the team’s hunger for improvement and dedication to honoring James Robson’s career with a stellar performance. The stage is set for a clash of titans as both teams vie for supremacy.

Key Stats to Watch:

– Duhan van der Merwe’s quest to equal Scotland’s top try-scorer record adds an extra layer of intrigue to the match.
– The battle of the carries: Ireland and Scotland rank first and second in carry meters, showcasing their relentless attacking intent. (Ireland: 3085 meters, Scotland: 2916 meters)
– Both teams boast impressive scoring rates per 22 entry, setting the stage for a high-scoring affair. (Ireland: 3.2 points per entry, Scotland: 2.9 points per entry)

Conclusion:

With the Triple Crown and Six Nations title on the line, Ireland vs. Scotland promises to be a captivating encounter. Expect Ireland to win by 15-20 points

Teams:

Video replay – Ballyburn leads home 1-2-3-4-5 for Willie Mullins

Ballyburn Dominates Gallager Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham’s Style Wednesday

Ballyburn, hailed as a standout contender, lived up to expectations by securing a stunning victory in the Grade One Gallager Novices’ Hurdle, kicking off Style Wednesday in spectacular fashion.

Trained by Willie Mullins, the victory marked his record-extending seventh win in the contest, with his horses claiming the top five positions.

Willie Mullins expressed his awe, stating, “This was the first time he has wowed me. That was some performance.” He praised jockey Paul Townend’s skillful handling and highlighted Ballyburn’s deceptive eagerness, attributing it to his head carriage.

Speculating on Ballyburn’s future, Mullins hinted at Champion Hurdle aspirations but pondered the allure of chasing and potentially aiming for a Gold Cup. However, he acknowledged the uncertainty of the sport, empathizing with Nicky Henderson’s recent setbacks.

Jockey Paul Townend echoed Mullins’ sentiments, lauding Ballyburn’s remarkable performance and downplaying his apparent keenness, emphasizing the horse’s manageable nature.

Winning owners Ronnie Bartlett and David Manasseh expressed their excitement and gratitude, emphasizing Ballyburn’s potential and the thrill of winning at Cheltenham.

Other riders acknowledged Ballyburn’s dominance, with runner-up Jimmy Du Seuil’s rider noting the horse’s improvement potential, while third-place finisher Ile Atlantique’s rider hinted at a future over fences for the talented horse.

Ballyburn’s victory resonated as a testament to his prowess and left spectators eagerly anticipating his future performances.”

Twickenham slip sees greatness elude Ireland again

Twickenham slip sees greatness elude Ireland again

 

There is a strong case to be made about Andy Farrell’s Ireland team being the best in the country’s history and one of the greatest international sides of the modern era. However, it is an opinion that might grow weaker over time given that the record books won’t make the same argument on account of a lack of meaningful accomplishments.

A familiar tale with greatness at Ireland’s grasp

It is a statement that many might understandably disagree with as Ireland stands on the brink of winning back-to-back Six Nations titles. Yet, they were only a minute away from recording consecutive Grand Slam wins in the Six Nations for the first time in the competition’s history.

This means that Farrell’s side would have become the only team to have ever gone unbeaten in successive Six Nations campaigns.

Being able to achieve an accomplishment of this magnitude would have ensured Ireland’s current group of players a place in the history books but carelessly giving away possession with a minute left on the clock while leading England 22-20 at Twickenham enabled the hosts to spoil the party with the last kick of the game.

Indeed, Marcus Smith’s drop goal from point-blank range denied Ireland an honour that they might never get the chance of winning again.

Whether one can call this performance a choke is up for debate given that the Irish will, in all likelihood, still finish at the top of the 2024 Six Nations table. Still, there are uncomfortable comparisons to be drawn just five months after Ireland stumbled in the first knockout game of the World Cup when they lost to New Zealand.

Before kick-off against the All Blacks, Ireland was the bookies’ favourite to win the World Cup – and for good reason. They had already beaten eventual champions South Africa in the pool stage and looked far and away like the best team in France.

When it mattered though, they wilted under the pressure of the occasion; a surprising and painful 28-24 defeat ensued against New Zealand.

Once again, Ireland was unable to climb the steps to eternal greatness.

The costly consequences of passing up opportunities

While hope always springs eternal in sports in terms of avenging an outcome, the other inescapable reality is that the going isn’t always plentiful. When it is, great teams make the most of the opportunities handed to them. In Ireland’s case, they might not get a better chance of capitalising on the momentum they had built up at a World Cup.

For a better example of this, keep in mind that Farrell’s charges were at odds of evens to go all the way in 2023 and now find themselves as high as 5/1 to win the 2027 World Cup in Australia. In other words, there is a mountain to climb again despite almost touching the summit in 2023.

For the hopeful Irish fans who think that invaluable lessons will have been learned by the 2027 World Cup, this list of the best online betting sites in the United Kingdom is offering generous sign-up bonuses that can be used on the outright market to back Ireland.

Bookmakers such as William Hill and BetMGM are offering as much as £60 in welcome bonuses to new customers in time for the spectacle Down Under.

Time waits for no man

Of course, the narrative around this incredibly talented Ireland team being regarded as nearly men can still change. However, history is written by the victors and time is beginning to tick for a team that should have already left a far bigger mark on this era.

Video Replay – Stateman beats Irish Point in Champion Hurdle

Cheltenham Festival Recap: State Man Secures Fifth Unibet Champion Hurdle Title for Mullins

Trainer Willie Mullins celebrated his fifth Unibet Champion Hurdle victory at the Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday, March 12th, as State Man triumphed, improving on his performance from the previous year.

Mullins expressed admiration for jockey Paul Townend’s confident ride aboard State Man, highlighting his surprise at Townend’s strategic positioning in the race. Despite initial expectations of a more forward position, Townend’s supreme confidence in the horse led him to ride for speed, ultimately securing a brilliant victory. Mullins commended Townend’s exceptional skills and praised his partnership with State Man.

Reflecting on State Man’s performance, Mullins emphasized the horse’s solid and dependable nature, attributing his success to his unwavering consistency. Despite challenging ground conditions, State Man’s stamina proved invaluable, showcasing his resilience and toughness throughout the race. Mullins ruled out Aintree as the next target for State Man, opting instead for the familiar terrain of Punchestown.

Paul Townend, enjoying his first Champion Hurdle win, lauded State Man’s simplicity and praised the horse’s deserving victory. Townend expressed personal significance in winning the Champion Hurdle, highlighting its importance in his racing career and reminiscing about his association with past champions.

In the 3:30 pm Unibet Champion Hurdle, State Man emerged victorious as the 2-5 favorite, followed by Irish Point and Luccia. Mullins, Townend, and the entire team celebrated State Man’s remarkable achievement, solidifying their status as formidable contenders in the racing world.

Video Replay – Lossiemouth wins the Mares’ Hurdle

Cheltenham Festival Highlights: Mullins and Townend Triumph in Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle

Trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Paul Townend celebrated a remarkable victory on Champion Day as Lossiemouth claimed the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle, marking a 5.7-1 treble for the duo.

Paul Townend commended Lossiemouth’s brilliance and praised the patience and dedication of the team behind her success. Despite concerns about the rain affecting the horse’s stamina, Townend delivered a flawless ride, guiding Lossiemouth to victory with ease. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to ride such exceptional horses and acknowledged the privilege of competing at the Cheltenham Festival.

Willie Mullins echoed Townend’s sentiments, hailing Lossiemouth as a Champion Hurdle mare and praising Townend’s calm demeanor in the saddle. Mullins emphasized the importance of strategic decision-making, affirming the team’s choice not to run Lossiemouth in the Champion Hurdle. He revealed plans to prepare Lossiemouth for future races, including Punchestown and possibly the Champion Hurdle.

Winning owner Rich Ricci expressed delight at Lossiemouth’s victory and outlined plans to bring her back to Cheltenham next year. He praised the team’s disciplined approach and expressed pride in Lossiemouth’s achievements.

Trainer Henry De Bromhead lauded his horses’ performances, highlighting Telmesomethinggirl’s impressive run and Hispanic Moon’s progression. Despite Lossiemouth’s dominance, De Bromhead expressed satisfaction with his runners’ performances and looked ahead to future races.

In the 4:10 pm Close Brothers’ Mares’ Hurdle, Lossiemouth emerged victorious as the 8-13 favorite, followed by Telmesomethinggirl and Hispanic Moon. The win marked significant milestones for jockey Paul Townend, trainer Willie Mullins, and owner Susannah Ricci, reaffirming their status as formidable contenders at the Cheltenham Festival.

Video replay: O’Brien and Slevin Triumph Again in Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

Video replay: O’Brien and Slevin Triumph Again in Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

On Tuesday, March 12th, trainer Joseph O’Brien and jockey JJ Slevin celebrated another victory in the prestigious Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle, replicating their success from five years ago with Lark In The Mornin.

Joseph O’Brien expressed initial concerns about the rain affecting Lark In The Mornin’s performance but praised Slevin for delivering a fantastic ride and finding the best ground throughout the race. Despite the challenging conditions, O’Brien was thrilled with the outcome, highlighting the significance of winning at such a prestigious event.

JJ Slevin shared insights into Lark In The Mornin’s preparation, acknowledging the horse’s struggles with the ground conditions. Following O’Brien’s advice to be patient and seek fresh ground, Slevin executed the race strategy perfectly, securing the win. Slevin also expressed optimism for Bambridge’s upcoming run in the Ryanair Chase, hoping for favorable weather conditions.

Tom Harney, rider of the runner-up Eagles Reign, reflected on the race, noting a flat spot in the horse’s performance but commending Slevin’s exceptional ride. Despite missing out on the win, Harney expressed delight for Slevin’s success and vowed to return for another shot at victory.

Ross O’Sullivan, trainer of Eagles Reign, praised the horse’s progressive nature and tough spirit, highlighting the significance of competing at the Cheltenham Festival. Despite being a relatively cheap purchase, Eagles Reign’s runner-up finish brought immense joy to the owner, marking a memorable moment in their long-standing tradition of attending the Festival.

In the 4:50 pm Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle, Lark In The Mornin emerged victorious at odds of 9-1, followed by Eagles Reign and Ndaawi. The win marked Slevin’s third Festival victory and O’Brien’s fourth, cementing their status as formidable contenders in the racing world.

Cheltenham Festival Alters Race Times Due to Weather Conditions

Cheltenham Festival Alters Race Times Due to Weather Conditions

In response to adverse weather conditions, the Cheltenham Festival organizers have adjusted the race schedule for Wednesday, March 13th. The decision follows persistent rainfall totaling 11mm, rendering parts of the Cross-Country course unraceable and leading to the unfortunate abandonment of the Glenfarclas Cross-Country Chase.

Despite hopes for improved conditions, the forecast remains unsettled, with further showers expected on Thursday and Friday. Consequently, there is insufficient time for the Cross-Country course to recover adequately, resulting in the decision not to reschedule the abandoned race.

As a result of the race abandonment, the revised race times for Wednesday, March 13th, are as follows:

– Race 1: 13:45
– Race 2: 14:30
– Race 3: 15:15
– Race 4: 16:00
– Race 5: NA
– Race 6: 16:50
– Race 7: 17:30

Despite the setback, racing enthusiasts can still anticipate an exhilarating day of competition. The Going on the Old & New course has been reported as Soft, with Heavy patches in places, ensuring a challenging yet thrilling experience for both competitors and spectators.

Video Replay – Cheltenham Festival News: Corbetts Cross wins Maureen Mullins National Hunt Chase

Cheltenham Festival News: Corbetts Cross Secures Emotional Victory in Maureen Mullins National Hunt Chase

Trainer Emmet Mullins experienced a poignant triumph as Corbetts Cross clinched victory in the Grade Two Maureen Mullins National Hunt Chase, dedicated to his late grandmother Maureen Mullins, a revered figure in the racing world who passed away at 94 last month.

Reflecting on the win, Emmet Mullins expressed gratitude for the race named in his grandmother’s honor and the significance of claiming victory. He credited jockey Derek for steering Corbetts Cross to success, acknowledging concerns about the ground conditions. While contemplating future plans for the horse, Emmet Mullins hinted at potential races but emphasized relishing the present moment.

Jockey Derek O’Connor praised Corbetts Cross’s outstanding performance, crediting Emmet Mullins for meticulous preparation. He reflected on a past setback and the horse’s remarkable turnaround, highlighting the simplicity and quality of the race. Despite refraining from speculating on future Grade One races, O’Connor acknowledged the significance of the day’s triumph.

Sara Bradstock, emotionally touched by her horse Mr Vango’s third-place finish, paid tribute to her late husband Mark Bradstock, expressing pride in their modestly priced but genuine contender. She humorously attributed the soft ground conditions to a celestial request to her husband, highlighting the joy Mr Vango brings despite financial constraints.

In the 5.30pm Maureen Mullins National Hunt Chase, Corbetts Cross triumphed at odds of 15-8, followed by Embassy Gardens and Mr Vango. The race showcased Corbetts Cross’s prowess over the 3m6f distance, marking significant milestones for jockey Derek O’Connor, trainer Emmet Mullins, and owner JP Mc Manus.

5.30pm Maureen Mullins National Hunt Chase (Grade 2) 3m6f

1 Corbetts Cross 15-8

2 Embassy Gardens 7-4 Fav

3 Mr Vango 14-1

7 ran

Distances: 17, 8½

5th winner at The Festival for jockey Mr Derek O’Connor

2nd winner at The Festival for trainer Emmet Mullins

74th winner at The Festival for owner JP Mc

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