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Match Preview & TV details : Ireland U20s vs Wales U20s

Match Preview: Ireland U20s vs Wales U20s

Date: Friday, [Date]

Kick-off Time: 7:15 PM

Venue: Virgin Media Park, Cork

TV Details : Virgin 2

The stage is set for an electrifying clash as Ireland U20s gear up to host Wales U20s in the U20 Six Nations Championship at Virgin Media Park on Friday night. Head Coach Richie Murphy, backed by PwC, has meticulously crafted his Match Day Squad, aiming to continue their winning momentum after impressive victories over France and Italy.

Ireland’s backline remains unchanged, showcasing stability and confidence with Ben O’Connor, Finn Treacy, and Hugo McLaughlin forming a formidable trio in the back three. The midfield partnership of Wilhelm de Klerk and Hugh Gavin brings both experience and flair, while Jack Murphy and Oliver Coffey maintain their pivotal roles in orchestrating the game from the half-back positions.

In the forward pack, the combination of Ben Howard, Henry Walker, and Patreece Bell provides a solid foundation in the front row, while Joe Hopes joins forces with captain Evan O’Connell in the engine room. Sean Edogbo, the hero of the previous match with his match-winning try, earns a well-deserved start at blindside flanker, complemented by Bryn Ward at openside and Luke Murphy at the helm of the scrum at number eight.

As anticipation builds for this highly anticipated encounter, both teams are poised to showcase their skill, determination, and passion for the game. With Ireland seeking to maintain their winning streak and Wales eager to make their mark, Friday night promises to deliver a spectacle of exhilarating rugby action at Virgin Media Park. Get ready to witness a clash of titans as the future stars of rugby collide in what is sure to be an unforgettable showdown.

Murphy has strong options among the replacements bench as Danny SheahanAlex UsanovJacob BoydBilly Corrigan and Tom Brigg provide the reinforcements up front, with backs Tadhg BrophySean Naughton and Davy Colbert completing the 23.

Friday night’s match is live on RTÉ2.

Ireland U20s:

15. Ben O’Connor (UCC RFC/Munster)
14. Finn Treacy (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
13. Wilhelm de Klerk (UCD RFC/Leinster)
12. Hugh Gavin (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
11. Hugo McLaughlin (Lansdowne FC/Leinster)
10. Jack Murphy (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
9. Oliver Coffey (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)

1. Ben Howard (Terenure College RFC/Leinster)
2. Henry Walker (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
3. Patreece Bell (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
4. Joe Hopes (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
5. Evan O’Connell (UL Bohemian RFC/Munster)(captain)
6. Sean Edogbo (UCC RFC/Munster)
7. Bryn Ward (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
8. Luke Murphy (Shannon RFC/Munster)

Replacements:

16. Danny Sheahan (Cork Constitution FC/Munster)
17. Alex Usanov (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
18. Jacob Boyd (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
19. Billy Corrigan (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
20. Tom Brigg (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
21. Tadhg Brophy (Naas RFC/Leinster)
22. Sean Naughton (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht)
23. Davy Colbert (Dublin University FC/Leinster).

 

More calm conditions block racing at European championships in Greece

2024 ILCA Senior Europeans and Open European Trophy

No racing was held due to continued light winds at the ILCA European Championships in Athens today (Wednesday 21st February 2024) where three Irish sailors are in action.

Since starting the championship series on Sunday, just three out of a planned eight race schedule to date have been completed for the women’s ILCA 6 class while the men in the ILCA 7 have had two races.

Finn Lynch (National Yacht Club) and Ewan McMahon (Howth Yacht Club) along with Eve McMahon (Howth YC) were among the 300 sailors who went afloat in the hope of wind but the calm weather persisted.

Organisers have now opted to cancel the Olympic format medal race final on Friday and instead concentrate on fleet races.

Four races are needed to constitute a championship but the hope is that the qualification round will be completed on Thursday allowing for Gold fleet racing on Friday to decide the event.

Premier League Darts Newcastle – Preview & Schedule

Get ready for a night of darting drama and excitement as the Premier League roadshow descends upon Newcastle for Night Four, brought to you by BetMGM.

Leading the charge is the formidable Michael van Gerwen, determined to extend his lead at the top of the table with a third consecutive nightly victory. Reigning champion Van Gerwen has been in scintillating form, bouncing back from a quarter-final exit on Night One to secure back-to-back wins in Berlin and Glasgow.

The Dutch maestro, boasting a three-point lead in the Premier League standings, showcased his dominance with a trio of ton-plus averages in Berlin before edging out World Champion Luke Humphries in Glasgow. Van Gerwen’s pursuit of glory continues as he prepares to face off against Gerwyn Price in what promises to be a captivating quarter-final clash at the Utilita Arena, reminiscent of last year’s Premier League final.

However, Price, the 2023 runner-up, will be eager to avenge his defeat in last year’s final and pose a formidable challenge to Van Gerwen’s supremacy. Their encounter is set to reignite the sparks of their past battles, with both players aiming to stake their claim for Premier League glory.

Meanwhile, the evening’s action will see other top contenders battling it out for supremacy. Luke Littler, currently occupying third place in the standings, will go head-to-head against the seasoned Peter Wright in a quarter-final showdown. Wright, yet to open his account in this year’s Premier League, will be keen to make his mark and stage a comeback following recent defeats.

In the opener, fans can expect a thrilling clash between Michael Smith and Nathan Aspinall. Smith, the Night One winner, will face off against the World Matchplay champion Aspinall, who is still searching for his first points of the season. With both players hungry for success, this encounter promises fireworks right from the start.

As the tension mounts and the competition heats up, all eyes will be on the Utilita Arena as the top darting talent battles it out for supremacy. Don’t miss a moment of the action as the BetMGM Premier League continues its thrilling journey, broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK & Ireland and streamed globally for fans around the world.

With each throw of the dart, expect adrenaline-pumping excitement, nail-biting finishes, and unforgettable moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Join us for a night of darting excellence and witness history in the making as the Premier League darts extravaganza unfolds in Newcastle.

Richie Murphy Takes the Helm as Interim Head Coach of Ulster Rugby

Richie Murphy Takes the Helm as Interim Head Coach of Ulster Rugby

Ulster Rugby recently announced a significant change in their coaching staff with the departure of Head Coach Dan McFarland. After his successful tenure since 2018, McFarland leaves behind a legacy of achievement, marked notably by securing playoff berths in various competitions and guiding the team to the PRO14 final in 2020.

In response to McFarland’s departure, Ulster Rugby CEO, Jonny Petrie, expressed gratitude for McFarland’s contributions and wished him well for the future. The club wasted no time in appointing Richie Murphy as the interim Head Coach until the end of the season. Murphy, who previously served as Ireland U20s Head Coach, brings a wealth of coaching experience to the role.

The transition comes at a critical juncture for Ulster Rugby, with assistant coach Dan Soper stepping in to oversee operations ahead of their upcoming fixture against Dragons. With Murphy’s arrival imminent, there’s a collective focus on maintaining performance levels during this pivotal period of the season.

Bryn Cunningham, Head of Rugby Operations and Recruitment at Ulster Rugby, will also take on increased management responsibilities within the performance function, ensuring continuity and support during the coaching transition.

As Ulster Rugby prepares to embark on the next phase under Murphy’s guidance, there’s an air of anticipation and determination within the club. With a strong foundation in place and a seasoned coach at the helm, Ulster Rugby looks set to navigate this period of change with resilience and ambition.

How Sportsbooks continue to offer Localised Offerings

LIV Golf Las Vegas

The gambling market has continued to experience stiff competition due to the rapid rise of numerous sportsbooks.

However, the global expansion of the market offers sportsbooks many opportunities to help them stand out. As most of them seek to acquire new customers, localisation has emerged as one of the crucial strategies they are using.

The Magic of Localising Content

In Ireland, for instance, the popular national sport is Gaelic Football, which has been played in the country for over 700 years. Along with Hurling, these indigenous sports are the oldest and rank top over other games like soccer, which engages close to 16% of the Irish population. While most Irish soccer fans support English teams, offering options that allow them to wager on such sports can be a great way to tap into this market.

Many bookmakers are already applying this practice to penetrate local markets. For example, Lottoland Ireland sports betting allows wagering on regional sports in different countries such as Algeria, Australia, India, etc. This way, companies are exploiting untapped local markets and audiences, enhancing their revenues.

Localising content gives the impression that a company understands and cares about a specific region. This makes the users connect more with the platform and can enhance retention rates. Having different odd formats can also help to appeal to regional preferences. For example, most British and Irish bookmakers will offer fractional odds as most players in these regions are more familiar with such odds.

Localised content can be further personalised to establish strong bonds with players. Exploding Topics suggested that businesses that customise offerings can improve their performance significantly, as over 60% of customers preferred such services. Tailoring promotions and bonuses to local events, holidays, or sports seasons can increase their relevance and appeal.

Access Considerations

Internet advancements in different areas differ, and this influences the specific devices players will use to wager. In Ireland, more than 44% of all online bets are placed using smartphones and tablets compared to desktop computers. Offering multi-device solutions that are fully customisable enhances the players’ experience with your site.

Source: Unsplash

As players will mostly prefer using familiar payment methods, integrating local systems can engage them more. Establishing new accounts adds more steps to their journey, which might not be worthwhile for most users. A JP Morgan research identified credit and debit cards as the most preferred payment method in Ireland, with over 60% of all online transactions done with the cards. Visa leads this trend, having over 80% of the market share in the country.

Terms referring to different gambling forms may also vary from one region to another. In most European countries, for example, words like house edge, the cut will be common for what an American may refer to as juice. Localising your language use can also result in stronger player connections. Platforms are also ensuring the support teams can communicate with players in languages mentioned on the site to foster trust.

In summary, sportsbooks are evolving as they seek to get a greater share of the global gambling market. As localising is a lucrative means, we expect more companies to offer regional products to attract more local audiences.

Leinster Schools Rugby – Gonzaga College emerged victorious over Belvedere College

In a thrilling Leinster Schools Senior Cup clash, raining champions Gonzaga College emerged victorious over Belvedere College with a nail-biting final score of 34-33. The match was filled with intense action and dramatic moments that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats.

The game reached its climax in the 70+3rd minute when Darragh O’Dwyer of Gonzaga stepped up to take a crucial kick, sealing the victory for his team in a dramatic fashion.

The momentum swung back and forth throughout the match, with both teams displaying exceptional skill and determination.

With twenty minutes left to play, Gonzaga held a narrow lead of 19-12, thanks to a penalty kick from Darragh O’Dwyer. The match was evenly poised, with both teams battling fiercely for control.

Belvedere fought back so many times, narrowing the gap to just 1 point with a try from Eoin McDermott in the 52nd minute.

Gonzaga had a try from Luke McLoughlin in the 58th minute, reclaiming an 8-point lead and looked set for victory, they had two held up try efforts which nearly proved costly.

Belvedere scored two late tries and took the lead in the 68th minute with a stunning 90-meter run which lead to Cillian McCann TRY, followed by a phenomenal conversion, putting them ahead 33-27.

But deep into injury time, Gonzaga showed great patience and Aidan got over to get the line to get them within a point, which left it all up to O’Dwyer to kick a late conversion for the win. Which he duely kicked.

Throughout the game, standout performances from players like Harry Goslin of Belvedere, who scored two crucial tries, Luke McLoughlin  and Darragh O’Dwyer of Gonzaga, who made significant contributions with his kicking and try-scoring abilities.

Ultimately, it was Gonzaga College who emerged victorious, securing a hard-fought victory and advancing in the Leinster Schools Senior Cup semi-final .

Irish Trainers Head to Cheltenham Festival with High Hopes

Ireland have dominated the Cheltenham Festival in recent years, winning the Prestbury Cup in seven of the last eight years. In 2023, they won 18 of the 28 races at the prestigious four-day meeting.

Here is a look at some of the hopefuls for the leading Irish trainers this year.

Willie Mullins

With six winners at the meeting, Willie Mullins was the leading trainer at the Cheltenham Festival in 2023. The Irish Champion Trainer goes into the latest renewal with a strong team once again, including with Galopin Des Champs, who is the 8/11 favourite in the horse racing betting odds for the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Mullins had an excellent Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown. He gave his leading Cheltenham runner a final outing before their trip across the Irish Sea. The Irish Champion Trainer won all eight Grade One races across the two days, dominating the fixture.

The Cheltenham Festival record holder for the most winners at the meeting will saddle State Man in the 2024 Champion Hurdle. He also has one of the leading chances in the Queen Mother Champion Chase in last season’s Arkle Trophy Challenge winner, El Fabiolo.

Gordon Elliott

Cheltenham Gold Cup and triple Grand National winner Gordon Elliott is very familiar with success at the Cheltenham Festival. The 45-year-old has had 37 winners at the meeting, with his highlight in 2023 being his triumph in the Stayers’ Hurdle with Sire Du Berlais.

Elliott will be hoping Gerri Colombe can give him a second Cheltenham Gold Cup triumph this year. His leading 3m chaser won Down Royal’s Grade One Champion Chaser earlier in the campaign. This will be his first attempt at the Blue Riband race in the sport.

Firefox and Found A Fifty go into day one looking to get Elliott off to a good start to the meeting in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and Arkle Trophy Challenge respectively. Later in the week, Galvin and Conflated bid to continue their trainer’s excellent record in the Cross Country Chase.

Henry De Bromhead

With back-to-back victories in the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2021 and 2022 with different horses, Henry De Bromhead added his name alongside a small group of trainers to win the Blue Riband contest more than once.

De Bromhead has just one entry in this year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup with Jungle Boogie. The 10-year-old moved to his yard earlier this season and won the Savills New Year’s Day Chase at Tramore on just his second start for his new trainer. He is one of the least experienced runners in this year’s Gold Cup field, but De Bromhead has a lot of confidence in his horse.

Envoi Allen represents one of De Bromhead’s best chances at the meeting. He will defend his crown in the Ryanair Chase on three of the races, while in the Cross Country Chase, former Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Minella Indo will be looking for more Cheltenham Festival glory.

Ireland’s best performance at a Cheltenham Festival came in 2021 when they had 21 winners. If the above three men have a good week, that record could be broken this year.

A Comprehensive Overview of Jette Nygaard-Andersen’s Impact on the iGaming Industry as CEO of Entain

In the ever-evolving, competitive world of iGaming, few figures have made as significant and impactful an impression as Jette Nygaard-Andersen.

As the former CEO of Entain, one of the world’s leading gambling companies, she successfully carved out a distinct and influential niche in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Her rise to the pinnacle of this dynamic sector is not only remarkable but also awe-inspiring, offering a shining testament to her unwavering determination, resilience, and exceptional business acumen.

Nygaard-Andersen’s illustrious career spans across various sectors, with each role contributing significantly to her rich, varied experience. However, it’s within the iGaming arena that she has truly excelled, leveraging her unique insights, strategic acumen, and deep understanding of digital gaming to steer Entain into unchartered territories of success and growth.

A Visionary at the Helm: Nygaard-Andersen’s Strategic Leadership

Nygaard-Andersen’s tenure at the helm of Entain has been marked by a clear, far-sighted strategic vision and an unwavering commitment to operational excellence. Her leadership style, characterized by a perfect blend of foresight, hands-on management, and innovative thinking, has helped Entain navigate the complexities of the digital gaming landscape effectively while players spin deals online.

Under her astute guidance, Entain has morphed into a dominant player in the iGaming industry, setting new benchmarks in innovation, customer-centricity, and market penetration. By fostering a culture of agility, continuous learning, and adaptability within the organization, Nygaard-Andersen has ensured that Entain remains at the forefront of the industry, ready to seize new opportunities and challenges as they arise.

More than Profit: Commitment to Responsible Gambling

While profitability is a crucial aspect of corporate leadership, Nygaard-Andersen’s ethos extends beyond mere financial considerations. She has consistently championed responsible gambling and player protection, advocating tirelessly for the creation of a gaming environment that is secure, fair, and inclusive.

This commitment to ethical gaming isn’t just lip service; it’s deeply embedded in Entain‘s operational fabric. From implementing robust age verification processes to developing tools that empower players to manage their gambling habits, Nygaard-Andersen has been instrumental in ensuring that Entain leads the pack when it comes to responsible gaming practices.

Global Expansion: Entain’s Foray into New Markets

Under Nygaard-Andersen’s dynamic and strategic leadership, Entain has embarked on an ambitious journey of global expansion. Her keen understanding of emerging markets, coupled with her adeptness at navigating complex international regulatory landscapes, have been pivotal in this regard.

Entain’s global footprint now extends across a multitude of new territories, diversifying its revenue streams and solidifying its standing as a truly global iGaming leader. This successful penetration into new markets is a testament to Nygaard-Andersen’s visionary leadership and her ability to translate this vision into tangible business growth.

A Legacy of Success: Nygaard-Andersen’s Achievements as CEO

The impact of Nygaard-Andersen’s leadership on Entain is clearly visible in the company’s robust financial performance. Under her stewardship, Entain has consistently registered impressive growth in both revenues and profits. However, her achievements extend far beyond the realm of finance in the best Casinos by community rankings. 

Nygaard-Andersen has positioned Entain as a hub of innovation within the iGaming industry. The company is pioneering exciting advancements, from virtual reality casinos to AI-powered betting platforms, reshaping the iGaming experience for millions of users worldwide.

 

Impact and Influence

Jette Nygaard-Andersen’s influence on the iGaming industry is both profound and transformative. As a visionary leader, she continues to shape the landscape of digital gaming, driving growth, innovation, and responsible practices.

 

Her relentless efforts have catapulted Entain to global prominence in the iGaming industry, firmly establishing it as a leader in an increasingly competitive market.

 

Our research team at 50Casino has conducted extensive studies into this dynamic sector and concur that leaders like Nygaard-Andersen are pivotal in propelling the iGaming industry forward. As we look ahead, it will be fascinating to observe how her leadership continues to guide Entain and the broader industry towards new horizons of success and innovation.

 

The future of iGaming is undoubtedly exciting, and with leaders like Jette Nygaard-Andersen at the helm of major players like Entain, we can expect to see continual growth, innovation, and improved standards of player protection. The industry will continue to evolve, and it’s clear that Nygaard-Andersen’s influence will play a significant role in shaping its trajectory.

 

A Final Word

Jette Nygaard-Andersen’s tenure as CEO of Entain was a period of transformative change, marked by impressive financial growth, innovative breakthroughs, and recognition as a leader in responsible gaming. Her influence continues to reverberate within the iGaming industry, setting the bar high for future leaders to follow.

 

Her legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration for emerging leaders, demonstrating the power of strategic vision, innovative thinking, and ethical practices in steering a company to unparalleled success. As we look to the future, it’s clear that Nygaard-Andersen’s impact will continue to shape the trajectory of the iGaming industry for years to come.

Chris Coleman Offered Republic of Ireland Football Manager Job: A Controversial Choice?

Chris Coleman Offered Republic of Ireland Football Manager Job: A Controversial Choice?

Former Wales manager Chris Coleman has emerged as a strong contender for the Republic of Ireland senior men’s football team, as the country’s federation seeks to finalize a permanent appointment ahead of the upcoming international break. Despite initial preferences for England’s Under-21 coach Lee Carsley, negotiations have stalled, prompting the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) to explore alternative options, with Coleman now in the spotlight.

Coleman’s tenure with Wales saw remarkable success, most notably guiding the team to the semi-finals of Euro 2016, albeit with the aid of superstar Gareth Bale. However, his potential appointment raises eyebrows as it contrasts with the FAI’s purported desire for a progressive on-pitch coach, with Coleman often perceived as more traditional in his approach.

Following his stint with Wales, Coleman’s managerial journey took him to Sunderland and abroad to clubs like Greek side Atromitos and Chinese outfit Hebei. However, his recent track record is cause for concern, with underwhelming statistics reflecting his struggles to replicate past achievements. At Atromitos Athens, he managed 61 matches with an average of 1.13 points per game, while his stints at Hebei and Sunderland yielded averages of 1 and 0.79 points per game respectively.

The decision to potentially appoint Coleman comes with its share of skepticism, given his mixed recent results and perceived divergence from the FAI’s desired coaching profile. While his past accomplishments with Wales are noteworthy, questions linger regarding his adaptability and ability to lead Ireland’s national team to success.

As negotiations continue and speculation mounts, the appointment of Chris Coleman as Republic of Ireland football manager presents both an opportunity for rejuvenation and a potential gamble. Only time will tell if he can rise to the challenge and deliver the results desired by fans and stakeholders alike.

Meath Footballers Have Thrilling Comeback Win Against Louth

Meath’s Thrilling Comeback

In a rollercoaster second-half in Navan, hosts Meath pulled off a dramatic first win of the Division Two campaign. Trailing by four points with 40 minutes played, Colm O’Rourke’s side staged a remarkable turnaround, scoring 1-6 without reply to clinch victory in the north-eastern derby.

Standout Performances

Eoghan Frayne, Shane Walsh, and Darragh Campion displayed immense character and determination, particularly during Meath’s struggles, pleasing manager O’Rourke as he builds a new-look team. Mathew Costello sealed the comeback with a sensational solo goal in the 70th minute, leaving Meath five points ahead.

Disappointment for Louth

New Louth manager Ger Brennan will be disappointed with the manner of the defeat, as his team went 33 minutes without a score in the second half before a late consolation goal. Captain Sam Mulroy’s late attempt was thwarted by Meath’s resilient defense.

Valuable Win for Meath

The victory is valuable for Tailteann Cup title holders Meath, following their opening round draw with Fermanagh and heavy defeat in Armagh. They will face Kildare next weekend in Navan. Meanwhile, Louth, who beat Cork in Round 2, will aim to return to winning ways against Cavan in Ardee.

First-Half Efforts and Challenges

Louth held a narrow 0-6 to 0-5 lead at halftime, reflecting their efforts in the opening half. Meath, despite six first-half wides, could have been ahead themselves. However, both teams missed crucial goal-scoring opportunities.

Frustration for Meath

Meath faced frustration in their attempts to play with width, as poor pass selection and Louth’s relentless work-rate thwarted their efforts. Despite a late rally, Meath struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities until their impressive second-half comeback.

Turning Point

Costello’s solo goal in the 70th minute proved to be the turning point for Meath, securing their victory despite a late surge from Louth. While Louth’s late goal added drama, it was not enough to overturn Meath’s lead.

Scorers for Meath: Mathew Costello 1-2 (0-2f), Shane Walsh 0-3, Jack O’Connor 0-2, Daithi McGowan 0-2 (0-1m), Eoghan Frayne 0-2.

Scorers for Louth: Ryan Burns 0-4, Sam Mulroy 0-3 ( 0-2f, 0-1m), Tom Jackson 1-0, Ciaran Keenan 0-1, Conor Early 0-1.

Meath: Sean Brennan; Michael Murphy, Adam O’Neill, Donal Keogan; Ciaran Caulfield, Darragh Campion, Sean Coffey; Ronan Jones, Cian McBride; Daithi McGowan, Eoghan Frayne, Jack O’Connor; Shane Walsh, Mathew Costello, Ruairi Kinsella.

Subs: Cathal Hickey for Kinsella h/t, Brian O’Halloran for Murphy 48, Danny Dixon for O’Connor 63, Aaron Lynch for McGowan 63, Adam McDonnell for Campion 70.

Louth: Niall McDonnell; Donal McKenny, Dermot Campbell, Peter Lynch; Ciaran Murphy, Anthony Williams, Conall McKeever; Tommy Durnin, Conor Grimes; Paul Mathews, Ciaran Downey, Conor Early; Ciaran Keenan, Sam Mulroy, Ryan Burns.

Subs: Niall Sharkey for Murphy h/t, Dylan McKeown for Downey 54, Leonard Grey for Williams 63, Wayne Campbell for Early 68, Tom Jackson for Keenan 68.