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Can Rory McIlroy claim the career Grand Slam at the 2024 Masters?

Rory McIlroy reacts after making birdie on the 15th green during day four of the World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play at Austin Country Club on March 25, 2023 in Austin, Texas. Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images. Provided by European Tour Group Communications.

The first Major of the year is fast approaching as Augusta National Golf Club prepares to welcome the finest players in the world for the 2024 edition of the Masters. Last year saw Jon Rahm secure his second major title with a commanding victory, but will his move to LIV Golf derail his chances of defending his crown?

Can Scottie Scheffler win another title at Augusta? Or will there be a surprise champion in the making Perhaps one of the biggest questions is whether Rory McIlroy can finally end the wait for win number five, which would see him complete the career grand slam.

Best Odds of Winning the Masters

Unsurprisingly, Scheffler is one of the favourites to win the event according to Masters 2024 odds, as he currently tops the table with a price of 8/1. Northern Irishman, McIlroy, is joint-favourite behind the American with regards to golf betting, as he’s also priced at 8/1 to secure his first-ever win at Augusta and if he can play to his strengths, this could certainly be his year.

The defending champion, Rahm, is the second favourite at 10/1 and all eyes will be on whether or not he can recapture the form which saw him win last year.

Rory McIlroy’s Record at Augusta in the Masters

The four-time major winner has endured a rather Jekyll and Hyde relationship with the first major championship of the year since he made his debut back in 2009.

In the 2011 edition, McIlroy had a wonderful chance to secure his first big title as he led by four shots heading into the final day, yet he suffered a Greg Norman-esque collapse on Sunday. McIlroy ended up shooting a round of 80 and finishing outside the top ten in what was a learning curve for the youngster.

Following his win at the 2014 Open Championship, McIlroy came into the 2015 Masters with a chance to secure the grand slam. He ended up finishing tied for fourth and over the next three years, he secured top-ten finishes, but victory eluded him.

His best chance during that time came in 2018, as he was within three shots of Patrick Reed heading into the final round, yet a missed eagle chance at the par-five second half cost him dearly and he finished in a tie for fifth.

A missed cut in 2021 was followed by his best finish yet, a second-place effort which saw him hole out from a green-side bunker on the 18th and it proved that he had the game to conquer Augusta.

Another missed cut arrived last year, but with top-ten finishes in the following three majors, the 34-year-old is edging ever closer to that elusive fifth major championship.

If he can put together four consistent rounds, there’s no doubt that he’ll be amongst the leaders on the back nine on Sunday, but he will then have to remain calm and take his opportunities, something he has failed to do at times in Georgia.

Once he wins one green jacket, the floodgates will open.

Champion Hurdle Betting Suspended Amid Concerns Over Constitution Hill’s Performance

“Champion Hurdle Betting Suspended Amid Concerns Over Constitution Hill’s Performance”
In a dramatic twist, several leading bookmakers have taken the unprecedented step of suspending betting on the highly anticipated Champion Hurdle. The decision comes in the wake of Constitution Hill’s lackluster performance during a gallop at Kempton, sending shockwaves through the racing world. Trained by the esteemed Nicky Henderson, Constitution Hill had been hailed as a surefire favorite for the prestigious Cheltenham Festival event. However, doubts have emerged about his readiness after he failed to impress during the crucial morning session.

According to Henderson, there are alarming signs of a possible infection, with evidence of mucus prompting further testing to assess the extent of the issue.

He stated, “There is evidence of mucus, which will now be tested to determine the extent of any infection.”

While the best-case scenario suggests a potential recovery within a week, the uncertainty surrounding Constitution Hill’s condition has cast a shadow over his Champion Hurdle aspirations.

The suspension of betting has ignited intense speculation among punters and enthusiasts, with all eyes now firmly fixed on Constitution Hill’s camp for updates on his condition.

As anticipation mounts and the racing community awaits developments, the fate of one of the sport’s most anticipated showdowns hangs in the balance.

Henderson remained hopeful, saying, “The best-case scenario is the infection could clear up in a week.”

Will Constitution Hill overcome adversity to claim glory, or will his troubles derail his championship dreams? Only time will tell as the countdown to the Cheltenham Festival intensifies, promising a spectacle filled with suspense and intrigue.

Daniel Coyle and Farrel win $100,000 Grand Prix in Florida

Daniel Coyle and Farrel the $100,000 Le Mieux Grand Prix CSI3* at the World Equestrian Centre in Ocala, Florida, on Saturday.

Canadian course designer Peter Grant set the track for the evening’s competition, where 15 horse-and-rider combinations from an international field jumped clear in the opening round.

The jump-off came down to a battle between Coyle and American Aaron Vale, who each qualified their two mounts for the short course.

In the end, it was Coyle and Farrel that stopped the clock in an unbeatable 37.24 seconds to take the victory.

Vale was runner-up with Obi Wan in 38.07 seconds, with Coyle also taking third with 14-year-old Quintin, in a time of 38.52 seconds, while Vale claimed fourth with Prescott in 39.74 seconds.

Winning rider Daniel Coyle said:

“On Farrel, you can turn on half a stride. He’s an amazing horse to turn back to a vertical. He’s very handy. Turning back so tight to the second to last jump, that’s all to do with the horse there. Aaron [Vale] would have done the same thing. We both took risks, but at the end it comes back to the horse and if you can nail it

List of entries for the 2025 Epsom Derby

EPSOM DOWNS NEWS: ENTRIES FOR THE 246TH BETFRED DERBY
Betfred Derby (Group 1) 1m 4f 6y

Epsom Downs, Saturday 7th June 2025

Acapulco Bay (IRE) 3 9 2 Westerberg/Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Aftermath (IRE) 3 9 2 Westerberg/Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Al Mumayaz (FR) 3 9 2 Green Team Racing Owen Burrows
Al Wasl Storm (IRE) 3 9 2 Green Team Racing Owen Burrows
Apples And Bananas (IRE) 3 9 2 Prince Faisal Bin Khaled Al Saud Joseph Patrick O’Brien Ireland
Archivist 3 9 2 Cheveley Park Stud William Haggas
Aurel (GER) 3 9 2 The M Team Ralph Beckett
Bethnal Green 3 9 2 The Gredley Family James Owen
Calla Lagoon 3 9 2 Juddmonte Ralph Beckett
Centigrade (IRE) 3 9 2 Highclere Thoroughbred Racing – Buzzard Ralph Beckett
Damysus 3 9 2 Wathnan Racing John & Thady Gosden
Delacroix (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr D. Smith, Mrs J. Magnier, Mr M. Tabor Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Devil’s Advocate 3 9 2 Godolphin John & Thady Gosden
Enea (FR) 3 9 2 Scuderia Scolari Mario Baratti France
Expanded (IRE) 3 9 2 Coolmore/Westerberg/Mrs A. M. O’Brien Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Falconer 3 9 2 Denford Stud Andrew Balding
Galveston 3 9 2 Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith/P M Brant Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Genealogy 3 9 2 Tabor/Smith/Mrs J Magnier/Brant Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Gethin (IRE) 3 9 2 M. J. & L. A. Taylor Owen Burrows
Green Impact (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. Chan Mrs J. Harrington Ireland
Green Storm (IRE) 3 9 2 Ahmad Al Shaikh Charlie Johnston
Gunship (IRE) 3 9 2 Qatar BS, China Horse Club & D. Howden James Ferguson
Henri Matisse (IRE) 3 9 2 Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/Smith/Merriebelle Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Hopewell Rock (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum George Boughey
Hotazhell 3 9 2 Silverton Hill Partnership Mrs J. Harrington Ireland
Hot Cash 3 9 2 Six or Sticks (TDH) Jack Channon
I Am I Said 3 9 2 Valmont and Ellipsis II Ralph Beckett
Isambard Brunel (USA) 3 9 2 Mr D. Smith, Mrs J. Magnier, Mr M. Tabor Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Ivatt 3 9 2 Andrew & Julia Turner Charlie Fellowes
Kaleido 3 9 2 Prince A. A. Faisal John & Thady Gosden
Kibris (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede Joseph Patrick O’Brien Ireland
Kilcrea Rock (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. O’Flynn Joseph Patrick O’Brien Ireland
King of Cities (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum Richard Hannon
Lambourn (IRE) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Last Galileo (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Zhang Yuesheng K. R. Burke
Lazy Griff (GER) 3 9 2 Middleham Park Racing & Mr G Griffiths Charlie Johnston
Lombardi Trophy (IRE) 3 9 2 Michael Tabor/Mrs.John Magnier Donnacha Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Luther 3 9 2 Mr P Hickman and Nicholas Jones Charlie Fellowes
Mallorca 3 9 2 Lord Lloyd Webber John & Thady Gosden
Matauri Bay (IRE) 3 9 2 Valmont, Ballylinch & Ecurie des Charmes Ralph Beckett
Maximum Promise (USA) 3 9 2 Back Racing LLC & Run For LaRose’s LLC Kenneth G. McPeek USA
Mount Kilimanjaro (FR) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Nebras 3 9 2 Mr Imad Alsagar John & Thady Gosden
New Century 3 9 2 Qatar Racing Limited Andrew Balding
Nightwalker 3 9 2 Juddmonte John & Thady Gosden
Noble Horizon 3 9 2 Nat Rothschild William Haggas
Nordic Norm 3 9 2 David & Yvonne Blunt K. R. Burke
Officer (IRE) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Opportunity 3 9 2 Wathnan Racing William Haggas
Oursin 3 9 2 Mr B. Lynam Charles Hills
Paratrooper 3 9 2 Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum K. R. Burke
Pinhole 3 9 2 Juddmonte Ralph Beckett
Pride of Arras (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr and Mrs David Aykroyd Ralph Beckett
Puppet Master (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr D. Smith, Mrs J. Magnier, Mr M. Tabor Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Purview 3 9 2 Juddmonte D. K. Weld Ireland
Push The Limit (FR) 3 9 2 Valmont Ralph Beckett
Regal Ulixes 3 9 2 Mr Gary Gillies Andrew Balding
Rock of Cashel (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Rogue Impact 3 9 2 The Rogues Gallery James Owen
Rogue Millions 3 9 2 The Rogues Gallery James Owen
Roosevelt 3 9 2 Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith/P M Brant Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Royal Playwright 3 9 2 Mr J. C. Smith Andrew Balding
Ruling Court (USA) 3 9 2 Godolphin Charlie Appleby
Saddadd (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum Roger Varian
Sallaal (IRE) 3 9 2 Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum Roger Varian
Saratoga (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr D. Smith, Mrs J. Magnier, Mr M. Tabor Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Scandinavia (USA) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Seacruiser (IRE) 3 9 2 Marcstown Ltd Ralph Beckett
Sea Scout (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr Abdulla Al Mansoori Simon & Ed Crisford
Serious Contender (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr D. Smith, Mrs J. Magnier, Mr M. Tabor Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Shackleton (IRE) 3 9 2 P Brant/Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Sir Dinadan (IRE) 3 9 2 Marcstown Ltd Ralph Beckett
Spanish Voice 3 9 2 Mr Saeed Suhail Andrew Balding
Stanhope Gardens (IRE) 3 9 2 Marcstown Ltd & Chelsea Thoroughbreds Ralph Beckett
Starzintheireyes 3 9 2 Marcstown Ltd Ralph Beckett
Sword of Wessex (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr P Hickman and Westerberg Charlie Fellowes
Tennessee Stud (IRE) 3 9 2 Westerberg,Tabor,Magnier,Smith Joseph Patrick O’Brien Ireland
Test Score (USA) 3 9 2 Amerman Racing LLC H. Graham Motion USA
The Lion In Winter (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Thrice (IRE) 3 9 2 Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Tiberius Thunder (IRE) 3 9 2 AMO Racing Limited/Giselle De Aguiar Adrian Murray Ireland
Too Soon 3 9 2 Too Soon Partnership
Tornado Alert (IRE) 3 9 2 Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor
Trinity College (IRE) 3 9 2 M Matsushima/Mrs Magnier/M Tabor/D Smith Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Tuscan Hills (FR) 3 9 2 Amo Racing Limited Raphael Freire
Twain (IRE) 3 9 2 Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier Aidan O’Brien Ireland
Tycoon 3 9 2 Mr B. E. Nielsen John & Thady Gosden
Valedictory 3 9 2 Godolphin John & Thady Gosden
Wimbledon Hawkeye 3 9 2 The Gredley Family James Owen
Windlord 3 9 2 Juddmonte Andrew Balding

90 entries
31 Irish-trained
2 USA-trained
1 French-trained

Race Conditions

Total prize fund £1,500,000

For three yrs old colts and fillies only

Enter by noon, February 25th
Second Entry by noon, April 23rd
First scratching deadline by noon on May 6th
Second scratchings deadline by noon on May 20th
Five-day confirmations & supplementary entry stage June 2nd
Final declaration stage by 10.00, June 5th

Weights: Colts 9st 2lb; fillies 8st 13lb

Horses will only be eligible to run in this race provided that they have a current BHA Handicap Rating of 80 or higher at midday of the confirmation stage.

Horses which do not qualify for a rating may also be eligible providing the BHA Handicapper is satisfied that the horse’s racecourse performances up to and including 31st May merit a provisional assessment of 80 or higher. Horses which have not run will not be eligible.

The winning horse in The Derby ‘Wild Card’ EBF Conditions Stakes at Epsom Downs on 29 September 2024 and in the Blue Riband Trial, run at the Spring Meeting at Epsom Downs on 22 April 2025, if not a gelding or already entered, will receive an automatic entry to this race on the proviso that, should the horse remain in The Derby after the subsequent scratching stages on 6 May and 20 May, and confirmation stage on 2 June, the owner will be liable to meet the corresponding payments respectively. In the event of a dead-heat in either race, both horses will receive an automatic entry to The Betfred Derby.

This race also forms part of the 2025 Churchill Downs ‘Wild Card’ Scheme. A runner from the American Turf Stakes, (Grade 2, 1m 0.5f. $500,000), run on Kentucky Derby Day (Saturday 4th May), will receive an entry and a travel incentive to run in The Betfred Derby.

This race will be restricted to 20 runners plus two reserves. The two reserves will be nominated as R21 and R22.

Latest Betfred odds
5-1 The Lion In Winter
16-1 Opera Ballo, Expanded
18-1 Ruling Court
20-1 Twain
25-1 Delacroix, Stanhope Gardens, Green Impact
28-1 Hotazhell
33-1 Henri Matisse, Officer, Acapulco Bay, Tennessee Stud, Mount Kilimanjaro
40-1 Wimbledon Hawkeye, Starzintheireyes, Devil’s Advocate, Isambard Brunel, Hopewell Rock, I Am I Said, Kibris, Pinhole, Pride of Arras, Push The Limit, Sallaal, Serious Contender, Shackleton, Tycoon
50-1 Scandinavia, Damysus, Aftermath, Devil’s Advocate
66-1 Bar

Late try gives Ireland bonus-point 31-7 win over Wales

Ireland achieved a bonus-point victory over Wales in the Guinness Six Nations at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

With two tries in each half from the home side, and a perfect goal-kicking performance from Jack Crowley today, Andy Farrell’s men maintained their grip on this season’s Championship.

Wales’ only score of the game was a penalty try awarded by referee Andrea Piardi, but despite the final scoreboard, it was far from Ireland’s best performance under Farrell.

Ireland dominate territory and possession early on

Jack Crowley opened the scoring in the 6th minute of this Guinness Six Nations Championship game, the 125 time Ireland and Wales clashed in the Five/Six Nations Championship, when successfully kicking a penalty from 42m out.

With Ireland dominating territory (74%) and possession (69%) in the opening 15 minutes, the home side would not be happy to have only a penalty separating the sides at that stage of the game.

Fourth try of the Championship for Sheehan

Dan Sheehan, with three tries already in this season’s championship, added another when crashing over in the 20th minute. With Ireland successfully winning the line out, the green maul drove for the Welsh line, but with the defending side struggling to cope, Sheehan touched down for the five-pointer, much to the relief of the anxious Irish crowd.

Jack Crowley made it two successful kicks at the posts from two, as he added the conversion for a 10-0 advantage to Ireland.

James Lowe settles nervous Irish crowd

Winger James Lowe settled the nerves of the home crowd even further when scoring his 14th international try on 32 minutes.

Ireland had Wales under pressure for the preceding two minutes, with the men from the principality stoutly defending on their own line. Ireland had won the lineout but Wales held their line and forced the home side to go all the way right to Calvin Nash, before playing the ball back to the opposite wing to Lowe.

With only one defender to beat, Lowe easily touched the ball down, before Crowley maintained his 100% record at kicking for the posts this afternoon, dissecting the posts this time from a more difficult angle.

With the extra two points added, Andy Farrell’s side were ahead 17-0 by the half-time break.

Half-time: Ireland 17 Wales 0

Penalty-try for Wales as Beirne sin-binned

Tadhg Beirne was sent to the sin bin in the 43rd minute as Wales drove for the Irish line. The Ireland number 5 was found guilty of illegally binding to prevent Wales progressing toward the home side’s line.

Referee Andrea Piardi, the first Italian to referee a Guinness Six Nations game, consulted with his TMO to see if Warren Gatland’s side had grounded the ball. With TV footage unclear of a successful grounding, the Italian awarded a penalty try to the visitors, reducing Ireland’s lead to 10 points.

First international try for Frawley

Ireland sucked in the Welsh defence on 67 minutes, allowing fullback Ciaran Frawley to race in for his first International try, on only his third senior International appearance. The UCD man found himself unmarked as he crossed the line and raced behind the post to score.

Jack Crowley had his easiest kick of the day, and his conversion put Ireland 24-7 ahead just over 10 minutes to play.

James Ryan sat out the final 4 minutes of the game in the sin bin as Ireland conceded three consecutive penalties, with Wales camped on the Irish try-scoring line. Despite their best effort Warren Gatland’s side failed to score, with Cian Healy and Ronan Kelleher working in unison to hold up the Welsh-attempted touch down.

Bonus-point try for Tadhg Beirne

With Andy Farrell’s men in search of a fourth, and bonus-point try, Tadhg Beirne, who had been yellow carded earlier in the game, found himself at the end of a great team effort as he achieved the crucial score with the clock in red.

Crowley, who had been perfect kicking all afternoon, ended the game with another successful conversion, giving Ireland a 31-7 bonus-point victory over Wales.

Ireland improve record against Wales

Ireland are now unbeaten at home against Wales in their last six Guinness Six Nations Championship fixtures, a new record, with wins in 2014, 2018, 2020 and 2022, and a draw in 2016.

The Irish team is now three wins from three in the 2024 Championship, and will head to Twickenham next to play England, before the final game against Scotland back in Dublin next month.

Full-time: Ireland 31 Wales 7

Oleksandr Usyk’s blueprint: How the Ukrainian plans to beat Tyson Fury in the Ring of Fire showdown

As the countdown to the ‘Ring of Fire’ showdown between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury intensifies ahead of their rearranged May 18 date, the anticipation among boxing enthusiasts reaches a fever pitch.

The ‘Gypsy King’ is the favourite in Fury vs Usyk odds as he aims to become the undisputed heavyweight champion, but Usyk has overcome underdog status before and can do so again.

The Ukrainian maestro, often referred to as ‘The Cat’, has outlined his approach for this historic clash at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Usyk’s strategic blueprint revolves around a philosophy that values speed and agility over sheer weight.

“To win this, I don’t need to be heavy, I need to be fast, and quick,” he said.

“You never see a fat wolf in the forest.”

It’s a bit of an unusual analogy from Usyk, but read on as we break it down further and get a better understanding of what he is trying to say.

Usyk’s philosophy

Usyk’s statement encapsulates his core philosophy heading into the Ring of Fire bout — an emphasis on agility and quickness rather than relying solely on the traditional attributes associated with heavyweight boxers.

While many expected Usyk to bulk up when he made the transition from cruiserweight to heavyweight, his dedication to maintaining speed sets him apart — aligning with his belief in the nimbleness of a predator like a wolf.

Speed and agility

Throughout his career, Usyk has been renowned for his exceptional footwork, quick reflexes, and ability to move in and out of range effortlessly.

These attributes were key in his victories over Anthony Joshua, showcasing a boxing IQ that nullified the power of his opponent.

Usyk’s strategic approach against Fury is built on the foundation of leveraging his speed advantage, aiming to outmanoeuvre the larger opponent and create openings for precise counter-attacks.

Height disadvantage turned advantage

The analogy of a “fat wolf in the forest” reflects Usyk’s belief that excess weight can be a hindrance rather than an asset.

Standing at a large height and weight disadvantage against the towering 6ft 9in, 270lbs Fury, Usyk (6ft 3in and 220lb) sees his lighter frame as an advantage in maintaining mobility and elusiveness.

Usyk is aiming to use his agility to avoid taking unnecessary punishment and not allowing the heavier Fury to lean on him while capitalising on openings.

Studying the Francis Ngannou bout

Usyk and his team have undoubtedly analysed Tyson Fury’s recent performances, particularly his bout against Francis Ngannou.

Fury faced adversity in that fight, being knocked down in the third round by the former UFC heavyweight champion.

The Ukrainian’s camp will have meticulously dissected the moments when Ngannou breached Fury’s defence, seeking insights into potential vulnerabilities to exploit.

—

As Usyk prepares to face Tyson Fury in the ‘Ring of Fire,’ his strategic blueprint emphasises speed, agility, and a refusal to conform to the traditional expectations of a heavyweight boxer.

Usyk’s philosophy of staying light on his feet, akin to a wolf navigating a forest, sets the stage for an intriguing clash of styles.

The world eagerly awaits to witness whether the Ukrainiancan translate his strategic vision into a historic victory to upset the boxing odds on May 18, as he aims to become the undisputed heavyweight champion of the

All three Irish sailors secure spots in Gold fleet with top 20 finishes at European championships

All three Irish sailors secure spots in Gold fleet with top 20 finishes at European championships

The ILCA European Championships in Athens witnessed improved wind conditions today, enabling all three Irish sailors to advance to the Gold fleet final round, set to conclude the event tomorrow.

In the fiercely contested ILCA 7 class, serving as the selection trials for the sole Irish spot in the Paris 2024 Men’s single-handed event, Finn Lynch (National Yacht Club) demonstrated resilience after a challenging start, securing a third and a race win as wind conditions picked up during the afternoon.

Ewan McMahon (Howth Yacht Club), Lynch’s contender for the Olympic berth, also delivered a strong performance with third and seventh-place finishes, along with a 20th place, positioning both sailors comfortably within the criteria for the fleet final round.

While the weather-disrupted schedule led to the cancellation of the Olympic-style medal race for the top ten boats, Eve McMahon (Howth YC), already confirmed for Paris 2024, showcased improvement in her overall position in the ILCA6 championship, currently standing at 14th place.

James O’Callaghan, Irish Sailing’s Performance Director, emphasized the significance of the ongoing process and the depth of talent at the senior level, anticipating further shifts on the final day depending on the number of races conducted.

Coach Annalise Murphy, guiding Eve McMahon’s training focus on starting tactics, expressed satisfaction with the progress despite the challenging conditions, highlighting the potential for McMahon to achieve notable results at the senior level within a relatively short timeframe.

Final Score: Blackrock College 25 – 3 Cistercian College Roscrea

Blackrock College vs. Cistercian College Roscrea: Leinster Schools Senior Cup Quarter-Final

In a thrilling encounter at Energia Park, Blackrock College demonstrated their dominance in the second half to secure a convincing victory over a resilient Cistercian College Roscrea side in the Bank of Ireland Leinster Schools Senior Cup quarter-final. Niall Smyth emerged as the hero for Blackrock, scoring a crucial double to propel his team to victory.

First Half: Roscrea’s Resilience

The match kicked off with Roscrea employing a strategic but questionable tactic of kicking long to the exceptional Charlie Molony, which initially resulted in Conor O’Shughnessy’s penalty in the third minute. However, Roscrea quickly retaliated, with Aaron Moloney’s quick thinking earning them a penalty that Jack Deegan successfully converted to level the score at 3-3. Despite Blackrock’s early dominance, Roscrea’s defense, led by players like Joe Finn and James Miller, held firm, frustrating their opponents and limiting their attacking opportunities.

Pulsating Exchange:

The first half witnessed a pulsating exchange of plays, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess. Blackrock’s direct approach, spearheaded by players like Tommy Butler and Jack Angulo, tested Roscrea’s defense, while Roscrea’s counter-attacks, orchestrated by Robert Carney and Harry Finlay, kept Blackrock on their toes. However, neither team could break through, and the half ended with the score tied at 3-3.

Second Half: Blackrock’s Domination

The second half saw a remarkable shift in momentum as Blackrock College seized control of the game. Charlie Molony emerged as the catalyst for Blackrock’s resurgence, capitalizing on a loose kick to set up Niall Smyth for the first of his two tries, giving Blackrock an 8-3 lead in the 38th minute.

Unstoppable Forward Pack:

Blackrock’s forward pack, led by Smyth, Butler, and Donnacha Maguire, began to overpower Roscrea, consistently gaining ground and putting immense pressure on their opponents. Despite Roscrea’s valiant efforts, including some impressive steals by Mark Walsh and Smyth, they couldn’t contain Blackrock’s relentless attacks. Jack O’Neill’s try in the 62nd minute further extended Blackrock’s lead to 22-3, effectively sealing the victory.

Scorers:

– **Blackrock:** N Smyth (2 tries), J O’Neill (try), C O’Shaughnessy (2 pens, 2 cons)
– **Roscrea:** J Deegan (pen)

Top Salaries for Republic of Ireland Players in the English Premier League

Top Salaries for Republic of Ireland Players in the English Premier League

Are you curious about the highest-paid Republic of Ireland players showcasing their skills in the prestigious English Premier League? Let’s take a closer look at the top earners among the Irish contingent gracing the pitches of the EPL.

1. **Seamus Coleman – £55,000**: As the captain of both Everton and the Republic of Ireland national team, Coleman’s leadership qualities and defensive prowess command a top salary in the league.

2. **Matt Doherty – £50,000**: Doherty’s versatility and attacking flair have made him a valuable asset for Wolves, securing him a significant paycheck in the process.

3. **Andrew Omobamidele – £35,000**: Despite his young age, Omobamidele has already caught the attention of top clubs with his impressive performances at Nottingham Forest earning him a handsome salary.

4. **Nathan Collins – £30,000**: Collins’ rise through the ranks at Brentford has been nothing short of remarkable, and his defensive abilities have rightly earned him a lucrative contract.

5. **Evan Ferguson – £30,000**: Another promising talent, Ferguson’s potential has seen him rewarded with a substantial salary at Brighton & Hove Albion, reflecting the club’s belief in his abilities.

6. **Darren Randolph – £25,000**: Randolph’s experience between the posts has been vital for Bournemouth and the Republic of Ireland national team, warranting a respectable paycheck.

7. **Josh Cullen – £20,000**: Cullen’s midfield tenacity has been a key feature for Burnley, earning him a solid salary as he continues to impress in Belgium.

8. **Dara O’Shea – £20,000**: O’Shea’s defensive contributions have been crucial for Burnley, leading to a commendable salary for the young talent.

9. **Chiedozie Ogbene – £15,000**: Ogbene’s electrifying pace and skill on the wings have been a highlight for Luton Town, resulting in a decent paycheck for the winger.

10. **John Egan – £12,500**: Egan’s commanding presence in defense has been instrumental for Sheffield United, securing him a respectable salary in the process.

11. **Caoimhin Kelleher – £10,000**: Kelleher’s emergence as a promising goalkeeper at Liverpool has seen him rewarded with a notable salary as he continues to develop his talent.

These players represent the cream of the crop among Republic of Ireland talent in the English Premier League, showcasing their skills and earning well-deserved recognition in one of the most competitive football leagues in the world.

Full List Of South African Rugby Fixtures 2024

Springbok Fixtures for 2024

The Springboks, South Africa’s renowned rugby union team, have unveiled their highly anticipated fixture list for the 2024 season. With a series of challenging matchups against formidable opponents, rugby enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for an exhilarating year of rugby action. Here are the confirmed fixtures for the Springboks in 2024:

**June:**
– *Saturday, 22 June:* SA vs Wales at Twickenham, London

**July:**
– *Saturday, 6 July:* SA vs Ireland at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
– *Saturday, 13 July:* SA vs Ireland at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
– *Saturday, 20 July:* SA vs Portugal at Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein

**August:**
– *Saturday, 10 August:* Australia vs SA at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
– *Saturday, 17 August:* Australia vs SA at Optus Stadium, Perth
– *Saturday, 31 August:* SA vs New Zealand at Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg

**September:**
– *Saturday, 7 September:* SA vs New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town
– *Saturday, 21 September:* Argentina vs SA (venue to be confirmed)
– *Saturday, 28 September:* SA vs Argentina at Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit

**November:**
– *16/17 November:* England vs SA at Twickenham, London (specific date to be confirmed)

This exciting lineup of fixtures promises intense rugby battles as the Springboks go head-to-head against some of the best teams in the world. From facing traditional rivals like Wales and Ireland to taking on powerhouse nations such as Australia, New Zealand, and Argentina, each match is sure to deliver moments of skill, determination, and raw athleticism.

As the reigning Rugby World Cup champions, the Springboks will be eager to maintain their winning momentum and showcase their trademark blend of physicality and finesse on the field. With a squad of talented players under the guidance of experienced coaches, South Africa’s national team is poised to leave an indelible mark on the international rugby scene in 2024.

 

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