Home Blog Page 70

Tadhg Furlong Reportedly in Talks with Bayonne: What’s Next for the Irish Prop?

Bayonne Opens Talks with Tadhg Furlong

Reports have emerged out France this evening that Bayonne, a prominent club in France’s Top 14, has initiated discussions with Irish rugby star Tadhg Furlong. This news has sparked widespread speculation about Furlong’s next career move. Is this a tactical negotiation ploy to boost his wage demands at Leinster, or is the seasoned prop genuinely considering a move to France?

A Potential Loss for Leinster and Irish Rugby

Should Furlong decide to join Bayonne, it would mark a significant loss for Leinster and Irish rugby. Furlong has been a crucial player for both his club and country, renowned for his scrummaging strength and dynamic play. His departure would undoubtedly leave a gap in Leinster’s front row, raising concerns about the team’s future performance.

Opportunity Knocks for Finlay Bealham

While Furlong’s exit would be a blow, it could also create a significant opportunity for Finlay Bealham. The Connacht prop has proven himself a reliable performer, often stepping up in Furlong’s absence. With Furlong potentially out of the picture, Bealham could seize the chance to solidify his position as Ireland’s first-choice tighthead prop.

What’s Next for Furlong?

As negotiations continue, the rugby world will be watching closely to see if Tadhg Furlong remains loyal to Leinster or takes on the challenge of French rugby. Either way, the outcome will have a lasting impact on the future of Irish rugby.

Cashel Palace Hotel Stakes Preview

Richard Howley and Consulent de Prelet Z won the Cashel Palace Hotel Stakes at last year's Dublin Horse Show. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

Thursday’s main event at the Dublin Horse Show at The RDS is the Cashel Palace Hotel Stakes in the Main Arena this afternoon.

According to equiratings, Tipperary rider Denis Lynch has jumped five clears from six round in this class since 2012 and has most podium finishes with three during this time.

Sligo’s Richard Howley won the Cashel Palace Hotel Stakes last year with Equine America Consulet de Prelet Z. His winning margin was 2.33 seconds.

Other Irish riders to have tasted success in this class since 2012 include in 2018 Shane Sweetnam with Indra van de Oude Heihoef; 2017 Bertram Allen with Izzy by Picobello; 2015 Paul O’Shea and Skara Glen’s Machu Picchu and 2012 Alexander Butler aboard Will Wimble.

Equiratings rate the following as the top-three contenders for today’s Cashel Palace Hotel Stakes: Kevin Staut [FRA] with Beau de Laubry Z, Conor Swail [IRL] and Count Me In and Ben Maher [GBR] and Point Break

The French combination arrive in Dublin following a five-star Grand Prix success at Dinard, which earned a prize of €125,000. Their career best performance together was their last outing in July.

Conor Swail and Count Me In were the home heroes in the Nations Cup of Ireland two years ago. At 17 years of age, Count Me In is the joint-oldest horse in the field today. His last three rounds at today’s height of 160cm were all clear.

Briton Ben Maher and his original Olympic horse Point Break, have the second highest expected round one clear chance (56%), according to equiratings, behind Conor Swail and Count Me In (57%). The British combination have already jumped 10 five-star 160 clears from just 18 career attempts.

Gordon Elliott Sets Ferocious Early Pace in Race for Irish Champion Trainer Crown

The year 2007 feels like a lifetime ago: just look how much has changed in the world since then.

But in Irish National Hunt racing, one thing has remained constant: the complete dominance of Willie Mullins as the premier trainer over obstacles.

The 2024/25 season is underway, with Mullins eyeing a 17th consecutive Champion Trainer title – first won in 2007.

However, it’s his friendly rival – Gordon Elliott – that is setting the pace at the head of the standings…

Long Way to Go

There’s so much racing still to come in the National Hunt season, which rolls through until next April.

But Elliott will be hoping to use his early-campaign form as a springboard for success in the sport’s major festivals. The Cheltenham ante-post betting odds give him a strong chance, too: Teahupoo (9/4) and Irish Point (12/1) are expected to go well in the Stayers’ Hurdle, while Gerri Colombe (12/1) may be a contender in the Gold Cup after finishing second in the 2024 renewal.

The Cheltenham Festival results from last year also confirm Elliott’s wins with Stellar Story and Better Days Ahead, while hardy veterans Delta Work and Galvin will be expected to go well in the Cross Country Chase after its absence from the 2024 edition of the meeting due to a waterlogged track.


In addition to Gerri Colombe, Elliott also saddled four other runners-up at the March festival and five third-place finishers, so there’s plenty of strength in depth at his Cullentra yard.

And he will need all of those horses to come to the fore in 2024/25 if he is to wrestle the Champion Trainer trophy from the mantelpiece of Mullins, where it has sat gathering dust since 2007.

It’s testament to both his ability as a trainer and also his gift for attracting the best horses from the leading owners and breeders, so the rest of the Irish training community will need Mullins to have an off-year if they are to have any chance of upending his dominance.

For Elliott, at least he has started the 2024/25 season in fine fashion…

Fast Out of the Gate

The meat of the National Hunt campaign is still yet to get underway, but Elliott already has more than €800,000 (£685,000) in prize money to his name.

Much of that has been claimed from action at Galway, where Elliott has enjoyed a stellar time of things in July and into August.

The Wallpark landed a valuable handicap hurdle on August 3 at the venue, staying on well in a race ran at an electric pace – five of the 18-strong field being pulled up.
A day earlier, veteran chaser Battleoverdoyen rolled back the years, defying a four-year age gap to Moonovercloon to head off Matthew Smith’s horse by a nose – clinching a handsome £40,000 payday for his connections at the age of eleven.

Prior to that, in the Grade 3 Galway Plate on July 31, Duffle Coat made a mockery of his 25/1 odds to run a fantastic race – beating the well-fancied Perceval Legallois and former Cheltenham Festival contender Zanahiyr, but finishing in second place behind Pinkerton.

It’s been an excellent start to the campaign for Elliott; can he carry that form through the rest of the season?

Darragh Kenny and Chic Chic win Sport Ireland Classic at Dublin Horse Show

Darragh Kenny and Chic Chic on their victory lap after success in the Sport Ireland Classic. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

The 2024 Dublin Horse Show got underway at the RDS on Wednesday, with two Irish successes in the Main Arena.

The main International class on day one, the Sport Ireland Classic, saw a field of 50 combinations take to the Main Arena.

This class brought further success for the home combinations, with Offaly’s Darragh Kenny and Chic Chic leading the victory lap after a clear round in 69.17 seconds.

Mikey Pender and HHS Los Angeles, who really went for Kenny’s time, were slightly slower – coming home clear in 70.20 seconds for the runner-up position.

American McLain Ward, last of the 50 combinations to go, took third on the podium, after a 70.96 clear round with First Lady.

Cian O’Connor and Fermoy, who had lead the class for a while, eventually finished in fourth place – 71.83 seconds.

There will be 15 international classes throughout the five days, including the Underwriting Exchange Nations Cup of Ireland for the award of the Aga Khan Trophy.

The highly anticipated Defender Puissance will be the main attraction in the Main Arena on Saturday evening, while the Rolex Grand Prix of Ireland, part of the Rolex Series, will the the final international event in the Main Arena on Sunday, 18 August, 2024, the final day of the 2024 Dublin Horse Show.

 

Premier League Finishing Positions Predictions for the 2024-25 Season

Premier League Predictions for the 2024-25 Season

As the new Premier League season approaches, it’s time for my annual predictions for where all 20 clubs will finish. Last year’s forecast saw Manchester City clinching the title, which was a no-brainer, but predicting Aston Villa’s impressive fourth-place finish showed some insight. With the usual caveats about potential transfer activity, here’s how I see the standings shaping up for the 2024-25 season.

1. Manchester City

**Last Season:** Champions

Predicting against Manchester City feels almost futile. Pep Guardiola’s squad, led by the incredible Erling Haaland, continues to dominate, having secured their sixth Premier League title in seven years. With world-class talent and the financial power to bolster their squad further, City remains the team to beat.

**Insight:** Manchester City is likely to remain at the top, given their consistent quality and Guardiola’s relentless pursuit of success.

2. Arsenal

**Last Season:** Second

Arsenal made significant strides last season with the addition of Declan Rice and came close to challenging City. With Riccardo Calafiori strengthening their defense and potential improvements in attack, Arsenal will again be City’s closest competitor for the title. However, they might still fall short of clinching first place.

**Insight:** Arsenal’s strong squad and the experience gained from last season’s Champions League will keep them in contention for silverware.

3. Liverpool

**Last Season:** Third

Arne Slot takes over from Jurgen Klopp, inheriting a squad rich in talent. With Mohamed Salah, Alisson, and Virgil van Dijk still in the mix, Liverpool remains formidable. Slot’s challenge will be to integrate new signings and adapt to his new role, but the squad’s quality will ensure a top-four finish.

**Insight:** Liverpool is expected to challenge for trophies and secure a top-four position, despite some uncertainties surrounding the new manager.

4. Aston Villa

**Last Season:** Fourth

Under Unai Emery, Aston Villa exceeded expectations last season by finishing in the top four and qualifying for the Champions League. Although Douglas Luiz’s departure to Juventus is a blow, the squad’s depth and recent signings, including Amadou Onana, should help them maintain their position among the elite.

**Insight:** Aston Villa is poised to remain in the top four, thanks to a strong managerial presence and a talented squad.

5. Manchester United

**Last Season:** Eighth

Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United will be under scrutiny, especially after winning the FA Cup last season. With few transformative signings and some injury concerns, United’s progress hinges on their ability to resolve internal issues and integrate new players effectively.

**Insight:** Manchester United should see an improvement in their league position, aiming for a top-four finish, though challenges remain.

6. Tottenham Hotspur

**Last Season:** Fifth

Ange Postecoglou’s first season showed promise, but Spurs’ inability to secure a top-four spot was disappointing. With Dominic Solanke’s arrival and other intriguing signings, Tottenham aims to build on last season’s improvements and secure a top-six finish.

**Insight:** Spurs are likely to finish in the top six again, but top-four aspirations may be just out of reach.

7. Chelsea

**Last Season:** Sixth

Chelsea’s managerial changes continue with Enzo Maresca replacing Mauricio Pochettino. Despite a squad full of talent, the constant upheaval and ongoing transfer activity may impact their stability. If Maresca can harness the squad’s potential, Chelsea could exceed expectations.

**Insight:** Chelsea may struggle to break into the top four but should remain competitive, finishing around seventh place.

8. West Ham United

**Last Season:** Ninth

Julen Lopetegui takes over from David Moyes, bringing fresh tactics to a squad that includes exciting new signings. With strong additions like Niclas Fullkrug and Crysencio Summerville, West Ham aims to build on last season’s performance and push for a top-eight finish.

**Insight:** West Ham’s strong squad and promising new signings suggest a possible top-eight finish.

9. Newcastle United

**Last Season:** Seventh

Newcastle’s summer was marked by administrative changes and player sales. Despite losing key players and experiencing boardroom shifts, the squad still has potential. Securing a top-six finish could be challenging, but Newcastle’s squad depth and potential additions could keep them competitive.

**Insight:** Newcastle is likely to remain in the top ten, aiming for a top-six spot if they can stabilize their situation.

10. Crystal Palace

**Last Season:** Tenth

Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner, played exciting football last season. With the departure of key players like Michael Olise and potential interest in others, maintaining their position in the top half will be crucial. Their attacking style promises another entertaining season.

**Insight:** Palace is expected to stay in the top half, possibly finishing around tenth place.

11. Everton

**Last Season:** 15th

Sean Dyche’s focus will be on improving Everton’s fortunes in their final season at Goodison Park. Despite losing Amadou Onana and with an injury-prone striker, Everton’s defensive solidity and new additions should ensure a more comfortable finish.

**Insight:** Everton is likely to secure a mid-table position, aiming for around eleventh place.

12. Brighton & Hove Albion

**Last Season:** 11th

Brighton has undergone a managerial change with Fabian Hurzeler taking charge. With exciting young players and new signings, the squad has potential but will need time to adapt. Maintaining their mid-table status will be an achievement in a competitive league.

**Insight:** Brighton is expected to finish around twelfth, depending on how well the new manager integrates the squad.

13. Fulham

**Last Season:** 13th

Fulham faces challenges after losing key players like Joao Palhinha and Tosin Adarabioyo. However, with new signings and a talented squad, Marco Silva’s team should navigate a mid-table finish with some stability.

**Insight:** Fulham is likely to end the season around thirteenth, balancing between consolidation and progress.

14. Bournemouth

**Last Season:** 12th

Bournemouth will need to adapt after losing Dominic Solanke. Under Andoni Iraola, the team showed resilience last season and should continue to improve. Their goal will be to stay clear of relegation and achieve a respectable finish.

**Insight:** Bournemouth is expected to finish around fourteenth, with survival as a primary goal.

15. Wolverhampton Wanderers

**Last Season:** 14th

Gary O’Neil’s steady hand at Wolves is crucial, especially after losing key players. The squad’s performance will depend on new signings and reinvestment. Maintaining a mid-table position will be the goal.

**Insight:** Wolves should finish around fifteenth, contingent on their ability to replace departed players effectively.

16. Nottingham Forest

**Last Season:** 17th

Nottingham Forest’s focus will be on stability under Nuno Espirito Santo. Key players like Morgan Gibbs-White will be vital, and maintaining squad cohesion will be crucial for avoiding relegation.

**Insight:** Forest is likely to finish around sixteenth, aiming for another season of survival.

17. Southampton

**Last Season:** N/A

Returning to the Premier League, Southampton will be under the guidance of Russell Martin. Their strategy will be crucial, and survival will be the primary objective, with some potential for surprises.

**Insight:** Southampton might finish seventeenth, aiming to stay in the league and avoid immediate relegation.

18. Leicester City

**Last Season:** N/A

Leicester City’s return to the Premier League comes with challenges, including financial issues and a new manager in Steve Cooper. Their primary goal will be survival, with an uphill struggle expected.

**Insight:** Leicester is likely to finish eighteenth, focusing on avoiding relegation after a tumultuous period.

19. Ipswich Town

**Last Season:** N/A

Ipswich Town’s return to the Premier League will be challenging. Manager Kieran McKenna’s goal will be to ensure survival, with the team facing an uphill battle against established top-flight clubs.

**Insight:** Ipswich is expected to finish nineteenth, with survival as their main goal.

20. Sheffield United

**Last Season:** N/A

Sheffield United’s aim will be to adapt quickly to Premier League demands. With a focus on survival, they will need to navigate a tough season against more established teams.

**Insight:** Sheffield United may struggle and could finish in twentieth place, aiming to stay up against the odds.

This forecast considers current squad strengths and managerial changes but is subject to significant alterations as the season progresses and new transfers are made.

Wins for Francis Derwin and Emilie Conter at Dublin Horse Show

Belgium's Emilie Conter and Ocean Quality won the Minerva Stakes in the Main Arena on Wednesday. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

The opening Speed Stakes on day one of the Dublin Horse Show at the RDS saw an Irish 1-2-3 with Francis Derwin taking the win aboard Parvati AEG. The combination were clear in 52.51 seconds to claim the winner’s prize.

The runner-up spot went to Niamh McEvoy and Templepatrick Welcome Limmerick – stopping the timers in 53.46 seconds.

Derry’s Daniel Coyle and Lena VDL were also clear in a slightly slower time of  54.53 seconds – good enough for third place.

The Minerva Stakes by LHK Insurance was the second International class in the Main Arena on Wednesday. This class went the way of Belgium through Emilie Conter and Ocean Quality. Their clear round in 56.42 was unbeatable.

Julien Gonin of France, riding Estrella De La Batia, claimed the second spot, with a clear round in 57.91 seconds.

Best of the Irish combinations in this class was Olympian Cian O’Connor, who took the third position with Fox Chapel – they went clear in 58.15 seconds.

There will be 15 international classes throughout the five days, including Friday’s Underwriting Exchange Nations Cup of Ireland for the award of the Aga Khan Trophy.

The highly anticipated Defender Puissance will be the main attraction in the Main Arena on Saturday evening, while the Rolex Grand Prix of Ireland, part of the Rolex Series, will the the final international event in the Main Arena on Sunday, 18 August, 2024, the final day of the 2024 Dublin Horse Show.

Connacht Rugby 2024-25 Squad Depth Analysis

Connacht Rugby 2024-25 Squad Depth Analysis

As Connacht Rugby prepares for the 2024-25 season, their squad depth shows a promising mix of experience and emerging talent. Here’s a detailed look at the squad across different positions:

**Back Three**
1. Mack Hansen
2. Santiago Cordero
3. Shayne Bolton
4. Shane Jennings
5. Andrew Smith
6. Chay Mullins
7. John Porch
8. Shane Mallon*

**Back Row**
1. Shamus Hurley-Langton
2. Cian Prendergast
3. Conor Oliver
4. Paul Boyle
5. Sean Jansen
6. Oisin McCormack

**Locks**
1. Niall Murray
2. Oisín Dowling
3. Josh Murphy
4. Darragh Murray
5. Joe Joyce
6. David O’Connor

**Out-Half**
1. Josh Ioane
2. Jack Carty
3. Harry West*
4. Sean Naughton*
5. JJ Hanrahan (Injured)

**Scrum-Half**
1. Matthew Devine
2. Colm Reilly
3. Caolin Blade
4. Ben Murphy

**Centre**
1. Bundee Aki
2. Cathal Forde
3. Byron Ralston
4. Piers O’Conor
5. Hugh Gavin
6. David Hawksaw
7. John Devine*

**Hookers**
1. Dylan Tierney-Martin
2. Dave Heffernan
3. Eoin De Buitléar
4. Adam McBurney

**Props**
1. Finlay Bealham
2. Peter Dooley
3. Denis Buckley
4. Jack Aungier
5. Jordan Duggan
6. Sam Illo
7. Temi Lasisi

Thoughts on Connacht’s Squad Depth

Connacht Rugby’s 2024-25 squad depth reflects a strong balance across all positions. The back three offers a mix of seasoned internationals and emerging talent, while the back row features a robust selection of versatile players. The locks are well-covered with a blend of experience and potential, and the out-half and scrum-half positions are supported by both seasoned and promising players. In the centre, Connacht has a depth of talent that could prove crucial in high-stakes matches. The hookers and props demonstrate a solid foundation with depth and strength in the forward pack.

Overall, Connacht’s squad looks poised for a competitive season with a mix of experience, emerging stars, and depth across key positions.

Premier Sports new Broadcaster for Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup

EPCR Announces Premier Sports as UK and Ireland Broadcaster for Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup

EPCR has secured a three-year partnership with Premier Sports, making them the lead broadcaster for the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup in the UK and Ireland through the 2026/27 season. This deal includes coverage of all 63 Investec Champions Cup matches and extensive EPCR Challenge Cup fixtures, including pool matches, knockout rounds, and finals.

Premier Sports, a key player in the rugby broadcasting landscape, already covers the BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) and TOP14. This new deal will see Premier Sports expand its rugby coverage to include all top European club fixtures, positioning itself as the most comprehensive rugby destination in the UK and Ireland.

The broadcaster aims to launch a 24/7 rugby channel, featuring the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup at its core. Premier Sports’ extensive rugby lineup will include 80 European fixtures, 151 URC games, and 110 TOP14 matches, showcasing their commitment to delivering unmatched rugby content.

Jacques Raynaud, CEO of EPCR, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Premier Sports’ ambition to enhance rugby coverage and ensure maximum visibility for EPCR competitions. Mickey O’Rourke, Managing Director of Premier Sports, emphasized the channel’s dedication to expanding rugby coverage and providing exceptional viewing experiences for fans.

With the 2024/25 season kicking off on December 6, 2024, rugby enthusiasts can look forward to three seasons of premier club rugby action, exclusively on Premier Sports.

DATES FOR INVESTEC CHAMPIONS CUP AND EPCR CHALLENGE CUP 2024/25 SEASON

Round 1: 6/7/8 December 2024

Round 2: 13/14/15 December 2024

Round 3: 10/11/12 January 2025

Round 4: 17/18/19 January 2025

Round of 16: 4/5/6 April 2025

Quarter-Finals: 11/12/13 April 2025

Semi-Finals: 2/3/4 May 2025

EPCR Challenge Cup Final: 23 May 2025

Investec Champions Cup Final: 24 May 2025

 

Cork Triumphs Over Galway to Secure 30th All-Ireland Senior Camogie Title

Cork Triumphs Over Galway to Secure 30th All-Ireland Senior Camogie Title

**Cork 1-16, Galway 0-16**

Cork claimed their 30th Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship title, edging out Galway in a thrilling encounter at Croke Park. Substitutes Sorcha McCartan and Clodagh Finn played pivotal roles, with McCartan scoring two crucial points after replacing injured goal-scorer Katrina Mackey.

An official attendance of 27,811 witnessed the intense clash, with Cork’s depth proving decisive as they secured back-to-back titles and a senior/intermediate double. Galway, led by the inspirational Aoife Donohue, who scored four points from play, fought back valiantly from a six-point deficit to level the game. However, Cork’s strong bench and resilience in the final stretch sealed the victory.

The first half saw all six Cork forwards on the scoresheet, while Galway’s defense successfully contained their goal threats. Cork started strong, with early points from Mackey and Saoirse McCarthy, but Galway’s tactical adjustments, including positioning Niamh Hanniffy and Carrie Dolan in the full-forward line, caused problems for the Rebels.

The teams were tied eight times in the first half, and Galway led 0-10 to 0-9 at halftime. However, Cork turned the game around in the second half, with Mackey’s 36th-minute goal—a scrappy effort that pushed her to the top of the championship’s scoring charts—proving crucial. Despite Mackey’s injury forcing her off, McCartan’s introduction and subsequent scores kept Cork ahead.

Galway responded with six unanswered points, showcasing their tenacity and closing the gap. Yet, McCartan’s late points, combined with Finn’s skillful play, ensured Cork’s triumph. Laura Treacy’s standout performance in defense also contributed to the Rebels’ success, securing their place in camogie history once again.

SCORERS FOR CORK: K Mackey 1-2; S McCarthy (1f) A O’Connor (fs) 0-3 each; O Cahalane, S McCartan 0-2 each; C Healy, F Keating, A Thompson, C Finn 0-1 each
SCORERS FOR GALWAY: C Dolan 0-8(6fs); A Donohue 0-4; A O’Reilly 0-2; N Mallon, C Hickey 0-1 each
CORK: A Lee, I O’Regan, M Murphy, P Mackey, H Looney, L Treacy, L Hayes, A Thompson, A Healy, S McCarthy, F Keating, C Healy, A O’Connor, K Mackey, O Cahalane. Subs: S McCartan for Mackey inj (38), C O’Sullivan for C Healy (47), M Cahalane for Looney (51), C Finn for F Keating (53), E Murphy for O Cahalane (60+3)
GALWAY: S Healy, R Hanniffy, R Black, D Higgins, A Starr, A Keane, C Hickey, O Rabbitte, N Kilkenny, N Mallon, N McPeake, A Donohue, C Dolan, N Hanniffy, A O’Reilly. Subs: O McGrath for O’Reilly (49), N Niland for N Hanniffy (60+2), A Hesnan for Rabbitte (60+6)
REFEREE: Liz Dempsey (Kilkenny)

 

Video – Louis Rees-Zammit and Charlie Smyth Shine on NFL Debuts

Louis Rees-Zammit and Charlie Smyth Shine on NFL Debuts

Welsh rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit made an impressive NFL debut for the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, in their pre-season matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite the Chiefs’ 26-13 loss at EverBank Stadium in Florida, Rees-Zammit’s first appearance on the American football stage was a “great first experience.”

Rees-Zammit, known for his speed on the rugby field, showcased his versatility by taking on multiple roles during the game. The 23-year-old featured as a running back, kicker, kick-returner, and even contributed to punt coverage. His stat line included two carries for one yard, one reception for three yards, and a tackle on special teams. In a surprising twist, he also handled a kick-off in the fourth quarter.

Reflecting on his debut, Rees-Zammit shared his excitement with the Irish NFL Show: “It was a great first experience. I loved getting the snaps I did, especially on special teams. Now, it’s about reviewing my performance and figuring out how I can improve.”

The atmosphere at the stadium left a strong impression on Rees-Zammit, who added, “The atmosphere was electric, with loads of Chiefs fans in the stands. It was a great game, and I’m looking forward to the next one.”

Currently, Rees-Zammit is vying for a spot on the Chiefs’ 53-man regular-season roster. However, he was listed as the fifth-choice running back on the team’s initial depth chart, indicating stiff competition ahead.

Another European player making his NFL debut was Charlie Smyth, a former Gaelic football goalkeeper from Ireland. Smyth made headlines by kicking a game-winning field goal in his first appearance for the New Orleans Saints, securing a 16-14 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. The 22-year-old rookie, like Rees-Zammit, entered the NFL through the International Player Pathway Programme earlier this year. His decisive 37-yard field goal with just five seconds left on the clock highlighted a memorable debut.

Rees-Zammit’s transition from rugby to the NFL is being closely watched, and his debut has only fueled anticipation for what he can achieve on the gridiron. As he continues to adapt to American football, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how his skills translate in the highly competitive NFL environment.

1...697071...607Page 70 of 607

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

SportsNewsIreland is an Irish website launched in 2009 to offer sports fans in Ireland an alternative and independent source to keep them up to date with all the news from around the country. Every week we bring you live score updates from all levels of GAA, rugby, soccer, racing and athletics. Contact

Contact us: Email: info@sportsnewsireland.com

FOLLOW US

Design by SportsMediaIreland.ie