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LIV Golf Las Vegas – Paul Casey and Harold Varner III top leaderboard

Redemption in Vegas

Harold Varner III aims to redeem himself from last week’s performance, while Paul Casey seeks to make up for his performance last year. Both made impressive starts at LIV Golf Las Vegas, each shooting 7-under 63s to claim the first-round lead on a chilly Thursday at Las Vegas Country Club. They hold a two-shot advantage over Jason Kokrak and a trio of RangeGoats GC players – captain Bubba Watson, Thomas Pieters, and new acquisition Matthew Wolff.

Dominating the Individual Leaderboard

In the 2024 season opener at Mayakoba, Varner finished last on the individual leaderboard in his debut for 4Aces GC after being traded by the RangeGoats. Determined to bounce back for his new team, Varner stated, “I’m here to play good golf, and as a competitor, I think that’s what you’re supposed to do.” He backed up his words with a bogey-free round, starting with consecutive birdies and keeping his tee shots out of trouble, hitting 13 of 14 fairways. This performance tied for his second-lowest score since joining LIV Golf.

Revival of Confidence

As for Casey, his 63 tied for his lowest score in 52 career regular-season rounds on LIV Golf. This impressive feat followed a challenging 2023 season plagued by various ailments, where he never finished inside the top 20 in points in the last 12 regular-season starts. The extended offseason allowed him to heal, entering 2024 with high hopes and renewed confidence. He showcased his skills on Thursday with six birdies during an eight-hole stretch and strong iron play, hitting 15 of 18 greens.

LIV Golf Las Vegas

Rejuvenated RangeGoats

Similar to Varner, Watson and his revamped RangeGoats team struggled in the season opener at Mayakoba. However, they made a strong comeback on Thursday, with Watson, Wolff, and Pieters each shooting 65, and Uihlein tied for seventh after his 66. This performance painted the leaderboard pink, the RangeGoats’ primary color, reflecting their improved form and determination.

EAM COUNTING SCORES
Standings and counting scores for Thursday’s opening round of the team competition at LIV Golf Las Vegas. The three best scores from each team count in the first two rounds while all four scores count in the final round. The team with the lowest cumulative score after three rounds wins the team title.

1.RANGEGOATS GC -15 (Watson 65, Wolff 65, Pieters 65)

2. CRUSHERS GC -14 (Casey 63, Lahiri 66, DeChambeau 67)

T3. SMASH GC -13 (Kokrak 65, Gooch 66, McDowell 66)

T3. 4ACES GC -13 (Varner III 63, Johnson 67, Perez 67)

T5. FIREBALLS GC -8 (Ancer 67, Puig 67, Chacarra 68)

T5. LEGION XIII -8 (Hatton 67, Surratt 67, Rahm 68)

7. TORQUE GC -7 (Muñoz  67, Niemann 68, Ortiz 68)

T8. RIPPER GC -6 (Smith 67, Herbert 68, Leishman 69)

T8. IRON HEADS GC -6 (Lee 68, Kozuma 68, Vincent 68)

10. CLEEKS GC -5 (Meronk 67, Bland 69, Samooja 69)

11. HYFLYERS GC -4 (Ogletree 67, Tringale 69, Mickelson 70)

12. MAJESTICKS GC -3 (Stenson 68, Westwood 69, Poulter 70)

13. STINGER GC -2 (Schwartzel 69, Grace 69, Burmester 70)

LIV Golf Las Vegas

PLAYERS EXPECTING LOW SCORES: Paul Casey is happy to be the co-leader after shooting a 7-under 63. But the Crushers GC veteran didn’t expect to find himself at the top of the leaderboard with that score.

Although the first round was played under sunny skies, an unseasonably high amount of rain in the past week left Las Vegas Country Club in soft conditions and primed for low scoring – especially with preferred lies.

“You almost didn’t want to have that low round because you didn’t want that asterisk with lift, clean and place,” Casey said. “I was surprised scores weren’t quite as low as I thought.”

Given that Torque GC Captain Joaquin Niemann shot a 59 last week on an even tighter Mayakoba course, the talk in the locker room centered around the possibility of another sub-60 score.

“There’s a deep score out there,” said Crushers Captain Bryson DeChambeau, who owns LIV Golf’s lowest score of 58 shot last year at Greenbrier. “I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a 59 this week. It’s definitely doable.”

GOATS HANGING OUT: On Tuesday, the RangeGoats had a team outing to cheer for the local NHL team, the Vegas Golden Knights. Last month, they took in a game together to watch the NFL’s Miami Dolphins and the NBA’s Miami Heat. Last week in Mayakoba, they stayed in the same villa.

“When we travel and we do things, I want to have fun. I don’t want to just sit in a hotel room and be bored or mad at my bad scores,” explained Captain Bubba Watson. “I want to get out there and just go have fun with the guys and go watch some sports. I mean, that’s what we do, go do some fun things. So far it has worked out that we’ve been able to do some cool things and some fun things together.”

Added Matthew Wolff: “To be able to go off the course, regardless of good or bad and know that guys are going to support you and you’re going to be able to laugh and talk and kind of just hang out, it’s relaxing and refreshing. It’s new for me.”

One thing they will not do together this week is attend Sunday’s Super Bowl. Watson is headed to Athens, Georgia, that day to attend a celebration involving his wife and the 25th anniversary of her college basketball team. “Why did they pick Sunday of the Super Bowl? I don’t know,” he joked.

KOKRAK’S HISTORY WITH LVCC: Jason Kokrak doesn’t live in Las Vegas, but he’s quite familiar with Las Vegas Country Club. His aunt and uncle live next to one of the holes, and Kokrak estimates he’s played the course 50 times during trips to visit his relatives.

“I spent a whole heck of a lot of time here at this golf course growing up,” Kokrak said. “… I know the golf course fairly well. They made some changes 10 or 15 years ago but definitely remember most of the golf course.”

And it’s not just the golf course that Kokrak likes about Vegas. The first of his three wins on the PGA Tour came at The CJ Cup at Shadow Creek in 2020. “I feel comfortable here in Vegas,” he said.

KOEPKA LEANS ON 3-WOOD: Smash GC Captain Brooks Koepka cracked his driver while warming up Thursday, so he put his backup in play to start the round. But unhappy with its performance after some early errant tee shots, Koepka utilized his 3-wood off the tee for the majority of his round to shoot a 2-under 68.

TEENAGER LEADS IN DRIVING DISTANCE: 19-year-old Caleb Surratt of Legion XIII led the field in driving distance Thursday with a 319.3-yard average. He also had the fourth-longest drive of the day at 323.6 yards in shooting a 3-under 67.

 

Nations League – Republic of Ireland – Group Draw, Fixtures and Kick Off-times

Ireland Faces Tough Challenge in UEFA Nations League Draw

The Republic of Ireland has been placed in a challenging UEFA Nations League group alongside England, Finland, and Greece for the 2024-25 campaign. Despite the absence of a manager following Stephen Kenny’s departure, the Irish team faces formidable opponents.

Key Matchups and History

  • England as Top Seeds: Gareth Southgate’s England, recently relegated from League A, pose a significant challenge as the top seeds in Ireland’s group.
  • Historic Rivalry Renewed: This draw sets the stage for Ireland’s first competitive men’s senior international against England since March 1991, marking a significant moment in their football history.
  • Past Encounters: While the teams have met in four friendly internationals since 1991, including an infamous abandoned match in 1995, this fixture holds special significance for both sides.

Previous Meetings

  • Infamous Encounter: The March 1995 friendly, marred by hooliganism, saw Ireland leading 1-0 before abandonment.
  • Recent Friendlies: Subsequent encounters in 2013 and 2015 ended in a draw and a goalless draw, respectively.
  • Recent Results: England’s 3-0 victory in the November 2020 friendly marked their first win in the fixture since 1985.

Conclusion

The upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign promises intense competition for Ireland, with historic matchups and a challenging group stage ahead.

Unveiling the Excitement of Football and Anticipating Euros 2024

Unveiling the Excitement of Football and Anticipating Euros 2024

Football, the beautiful game, continues to captivate hearts and minds around the globe with its passion, drama, and unyielding spirit. As fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the sport’s illustrious history, all eyes turn towards Euros 2024. In this article, we delve into the journey towards Euros 2024, exploring the qualifying process, highlighting notable places, and offering predictions for the prestigious tournament.

1. Qualifying Campaign: The Battle for Supremacy

a. Competitive Qualifiers:

● The qualifying campaign for Euros 2024 is a battleground where nations vie for the opportunity to showcase their talent on the grand stage. With fierce competition and high stakes, every match is a test of skill, strategy, and determination.

b. Rivalries Renewed:

● Qualifiers see the renewal of historic rivalries and the emergence of new contenders. Traditional powerhouses clash with up-and-coming nations, creating captivating storylines and memorable moments along the way.

c. Underdogs and Dark Horses:

● Euros 2024 qualifiers provide a platform for underdog nations to defy expectations and make their mark on the footballing world. Dark horse teams aim to upset the established order and secure their place among Europe’s elite.

2. Host Cities: A Tapestry of Footballing Culture

a. Iconic Venues:

● Euros 2024 will unfold across a selection of iconic stadiums and cities, each with its own rich footballing heritage. From historic arenas to modern marvels, the host cities offer a diverse tapestry of footballing culture.

b. Fan Engagement:

● Host cities play a crucial role in fostering the electric atmosphere of Euros 2024. Fans from around the world converge in these footballing hubs, creating an unforgettable experience of camaraderie and passion.

c. Cultural Highlights:

● Beyond the pitch, host cities showcase their cultural delights, offering fans a taste of local cuisine, traditions, and landmarks. From bustling metropolises to quaint towns, each destination adds its own unique flavor to the tournament.

3. Predictions and Expectations: A Glimpse into the Future

a. Favorites to Shine:

● Traditional footballing powerhouses like Germany, France, and Spain are expected to feature prominently in Euros 2024. With talent-laden squads and experienced managers, these teams are poised to make a strong impression.

b. Emerging Contenders:

● Watchful eyes will be on emerging contenders such as Belgium, Portugal, and England, who boast formidable squads capable of challenging for the title. These teams have the talent and depth to cause upsets and make deep runs in the tournament.

c. Surprise Packages:

● Euros 2024 could witness the emergence of surprise packages, with nations like the Netherlands, Italy, and Croatia seeking to recapture past glories. With a blend of youth and experience, these teams have the potential to exceed expectations and leave their mark on the tournament.

Embracing the Thrill of Euros 2024

As football fans around the world eagerly anticipate Euros 2024, the stage is set for a tournament brimming with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. From the intensity of qualifying campaigns to the electric atmosphere of host cities, Euros 2024 promises to be a celebration of footballing excellence and global unity. As nations prepare to battle for supremacy on the pitch, fans everywhere await with bated breath, ready to embark on a journey filled with passion, pride, and the enduring spirit of the beautiful game.

 

IRFU University 7s Competition – First Tournament in Galway on February 28th

IRFU Launches University 7s Competition – First Tournament in Galway on February 28th. 

The IRFU has announced a launch of a new University 7s competition this Spring, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to the development of the Women’s Pathway.

Expanding Opportunities Across Ireland

Following the establishment of Centre of Excellence hubs at six universities in 2023, the IRFU University 7s will take place across four tournament days in February and March, featuring a team from each province. The University of Galway (28th February), Queen’s University (6th March), the University of Limerick (13th March), and SETU Carlow (20th March) will each host a round.

Enhancing Pathways for Female Athletes

The introduction of the University 7s to the domestic calendar will provide Women’s National Talent Squad (WNTS) players with access to competitive Sevens game-time, acting as a transition from the underage U16 and U18 Inter-Provincial Sevens Series to senior representation.

Intense Competition Across Provinces

Leinster (DCU and SETU Carlow), Munster (UL), Connacht (University of Galway and ATU Sligo), and Ulster (Queen’s University) will compete over four tournament weeks, with each round featuring six fixtures in a round-robin format. An IQ Rugby team will also compete at Queen’s University.

Building a Sustainable Talent Network

Developed in line with the IRFU’s vision of building a sustainable talent identification network, the addition of the University 7s tournament to the Pathway structure aims to attract female athletes within the university system to rugby, with the Sevens format providing a perfect gateway to the sport and allowing WNTS Pathway Staff to work with and develop new talent.

Excitement Surrounding the Launch

Audrey O’Flynn, IRFU High Performance Project Manager, expressed excitement about the launch of the University 7s, stating that it is a key addition to the women’s pathway calendar. Gillian McDarby, IRFU Head of Women’s Performance and Pathways, added that the University 7s competition aligns with the squad’s preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics and reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen the Pathways structure.

Preparation for International Competitions

As part of their preparation for the Singapore leg of the HSBC SVNS Series, the Ireland Women’s Sevens squad will attend the third round of the University 7s in Limerick on 13th March, competing in an inter-squad hit out. Head Coach Allan Temple-Jones emphasized the importance of the University 7s tournament in inspiring new generations of young girls to play rugby and looks forward to attending the University of Limerick as part of what promises to be a brilliant four weeks of Sevens.

Global Representation

Following the conclusion of the University 7s, a National Universities team will be selected to represent Ireland at the 2024 World University Championships in France in June.

Upcoming Announcements

Fixtures and squad lists for the University 7s will be announced later this month.

IRFU University 7s 2024:

  • 28th February: University of Galway
  • 6th March: Queen’s University Belfast
  • 13th March: University of Limerick
  • 20th March: SETU Carlow.

 

South Africa Rugby – New coaching team including Jerry Flannery announced

South Africa’s Rugby Revolution: Introducing the New Springbok Coaching Team

In a groundbreaking move following their consecutive World Cup victories, South Africa’s rugby powerhouse has undergone a significant transformation in its coaching staff. With Rassie Erasmus transitioning from the role of director of rugby to head coach, the Springboks are poised for a new era of dominance on the global stage.

Under Erasmus’ leadership, which some argue may have been his de facto position all along, the Springboks are assembling a formidable coaching team, poised to maintain their position at the pinnacle of world rugby.

Leading the charge is Rassie Erasmus himself, stepping into the role of head coach with a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. Joining him are a cadre of talented assistants, each bringing their unique expertise to the table.

Mzwandile Stick, Deon Davids, Daan Human, Tony Brown, and Jerry Flannery make up the core of the coaching staff, offering a diverse range of skills and perspectives to bolster the team’s performance on the field.

Not to be overlooked is Andy Edwards, the newly appointed Head of Athletic Performance, tasked with ensuring that the Springboks remain at the peak of physical fitness and endurance.

But the coaching lineup doesn’t end there. Jaco Peyper assumes the crucial role of National Laws Advisor, ensuring that the Springboks remain well-versed in the ever-evolving landscape of rugby regulations.

Additionally, the inclusion of players such as Duane Vermeulen in a roving coaching role within the mobi unit, alongside Franzel September and Bafana Nhleko, underscores the Springboks’ commitment to nurturing talent from within and ensuring a seamless transition from the pitch to the coaching staff.

With this formidable array of coaching talent at their disposal, the Springboks are poised to build upon their recent successes and continue to set the standard for excellence in international rugby. As they embark on this new chapter, the eyes of the rugby world will be firmly fixed on South Africa, eager to witness the next chapter in their storied legacy of triumph and glory.

Premier League Club Ownership: Who Owns Every Premiership Football Club in England?

Here is the comprehensive list of the owners of all English Premier League clubs. 

In the world of English football, the ownership of clubs varies greatly, from individual investors to multinational conglomerates. Let’s take a closer look at the ownership structures of each Premier League club:

**Arsenal**

American Stan Kroenke acquired a 9.9% stake in Arsenal in 2007, gradually increasing his ownership until he assumed 100% control in 2018. Kroenke Sports and Entertainment, his holding company, oversees both Arsenal and Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids.

**Aston Villa**

Nassef Sawaris and Wes Edens, collectively known as V Sports, acquired a controlling stake in Aston Villa in 2018. They also invested in Vitoria Guimaraes, reducing their stake to 29% after both clubs qualified for the Europa Conference League.

**Brentford**

Matthew Benham took full control of Brentford in 2012, after initially investing in the club in 2005. While he previously held shares in Danish side FC Midtjylland, he sold them in August.

**Brighton**

Tony Bloom, a devoted Brighton fan, secured a 75% shareholding in the club in 2009. He also completed the takeover of Saint-Gilloise in 2018, adjusting his ownership stake after both clubs qualified for the Europa League.

**Bournemouth**

In 2022, Maxim Demin sold his 100% stake in Bournemouth to American businessman Bill Foley’s Black Knight Football Club. Foley’s diverse portfolio includes investments in French Ligue 1 and the Australian A-League.

**Burnley**

ALK Capital acquired an 83% stake in Burnley in 2020, forging a “strategic relationship” with Scottish Premiership side Dundee. Other notable investors include former NFL star JJ Watt and US sport and YouTube entertainment group Dude Perfect.

**Chelsea**

American investor Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital completed a £4.25bn takeover of Chelsea in 2022. Boehly’s investments extend to baseball, women’s basketball, and NBA franchises, sparking speculation about potential Saudi involvement at Stamford Bridge.

**Crystal Palace**

John Textor’s Eagle Football Holdings owns Crystal Palace, along with other clubs globally. Textor expanded his portfolio with the acquisition of French side Lyon in 2022.

**Everton**

Farhad Moshiri became the major shareholder of Everton in 2016, steadily increasing his stake since then. However, talks of a potential sale to Miami-based investment firm 777 Partners loom, signaling potential changes in ownership.

**Fulham**

Shahid Khan, owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars, purchased Fulham in 2013. His diverse interests include co-ownership of wrestling company All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

**Liverpool**

Fenway Sports Group acquired Liverpool in 2010, with Redbird Capital Partners joining as a partner in 2021. Their investments extend to Serie A and French Ligue 1 clubs.

**Luton Town**

Luton Town Football Club 2020, chaired by David Wilkinson, owns Luton Town. Notable director Paul Ballantyne plays a significant role in the company.

**Manchester City**

The City Football Group (CFG), founded by Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Khaldoon Al Mubarak, boasts a majority ownership by Abu Dhabi United Group. CFG’s global presence includes clubs in Girona, Mumbai City, and New York City.

**Manchester United**

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos Group acquired a 25% stake in Manchester United in December. Ratcliffe’s diverse interests span across football and other sports ventures.

**Newcastle United**

Newcastle United is owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), making them one of the richest clubs globally. PIF’s acquisitions extend to prominent Saudi Arabian clubs, fueling speculation about potential player signings and transfers.

**Nottingham Forest**

Greek shipping magnate Evangelos Marinakis purchased Nottingham Forest in 2017. His ownership portfolio includes Greek top-flight side Olympiakos and Portuguese club Rio Ave.

**Sheffield United**

Prince Abdullah’s United World Group owns 50% of Sheffield United, with plans for a potential sale underway. Abdullah’s investments extend globally, including Belgium, France, and India.

**Tottenham**

British investment company ENIC International holds the majority of shares in Tottenham, with ties to various European clubs in the past. Their investment strategy shifted towards a larger stake in Tottenham in 2007.

**West Ham**

The majority of shares in West Ham are held by David Sullivan, Daniel Kretinsky, and Vanessa Gold. Kretinsky’s influence in Czech football has led to strategic player acquisitions for West Ham.

**Wolves**

Fosun Group, a Chinese investment firm, owns Wolves. Their ownership interests include shares previously held in Swiss club Grasshoppers, signaling their global investment strategy.

Red Bull Launches Investigation into Allegations Against Christian Horner: What We Know

Red Bull Launches Investigation into Allegations Against Christian Horner: What We Know

Red Bull’s Formula 1 team is under scrutiny as allegations of inappropriate behavior surface against team principal Christian Horner. Here’s a breakdown of the situation and what it means for the team as they gear up for the 2024 season.

1. Allegations Against Christian Horner:
Red Bull has initiated an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior against Christian Horner, who has been at the helm of the team since its entry into F1 in 2005.

2. Horner’s Tenure and Achievements:
Horner, 50, boasts an impressive track record, having led Red Bull to seven drivers’ titles and six constructors’ triumphs during his 19-year tenure.

3. Confirmation and Response:
The investigation, spearheaded by an external specialist barrister, was confirmed by Red Bull’s Austrian parent company. Horner has vehemently denied the allegations. A source within the Red Bull team said the claims related to ‘incredibly controlling behaviour’. It is alleged that the behaviour was towards a female colleague.

4. The Investigation Process:
Red Bull is treating the matter with utmost seriousness, ensuring a thorough and impartial investigation. Horner will continue in his roles during this period.

5. Impact on Red Bull Racing:
With the launch of the 2024 car just around the corner, the team faces potential disruptions as they strive for continued success on the track.

Conclusion:

The allegations against Christian Horner have sparked an investigation that could have implications for Red Bull Racing. As the team navigates through this challenging period, all eyes will be on how they manage the situation while maintaining their focus on the upcoming F1 season.

Galway GAA News – Whelan Hurling captain and Joyce happy

Galway GAA Update: Conor Whelan Named Hurling Captain; Pádraic Joyce pleased with Footballers’ Progress

Conor Whelan takes the helm as Galway senior hurling captain for 2024, succeeding Daithi Burke. His decisive goal in the recent Allianz Hurling League Round 1 against Westmeath showcased his leadership. Joining him as vice-captain is Conor Clancy, a standout from St Thomas’ recent All-Ireland Club SHC victory.

Despite a disappointing start in the Allianz Football League, Galway showed marked improvement in their draw against Roscommon. Manager Padraic Joyce expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasising the injection of aggression and passion. Despite missing key players due to injury, Joyce praised the young talent stepping up, highlighting the promising contributions of Liam O’Conghaile, Cillian Ó Curraoin, Jack McCabe, and Patrick Egan. Joyce remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, focusing on player development and maintaining competitiveness in Division 1.

“We had four or five young lads in there today, between Liam O’Conghaile, Cillian (Ó Curraoin), Jack McCabe, Patrick Egan – they’re all 20-21 years of age,” he noted.

“Because we’ve so many injuries at the minute – not that we’re complaining about them but they’re there – that takes up nine or ten of our first team regulars, so we have to try and develop players for later in the summer.

“If the lads come back from injury and the young lads keep developing, we’ll be in a healthy state, provided we can keep afloat in Division 1.”

 

LIV Golf Results Mexico 2024 – Team and Individual Results

Niemann’s Triumph: Overcoming Adversity

In an exhilarating display of skill and determination, Joaquin Niemann etched his name into LIV Golf history with a stunning victory at Mayakoba. Overcoming a tumultuous start marred by a two-stroke penalty, Niemann showcased unwavering focus and resilience, ultimately prevailing in a heart-pounding playoff against seasoned competitor Sergio Garcia. The Torque GC captain’s journey from adversity to triumph exemplifies the essence of grit and perseverance that defines the sport.

Legion XIII’s Debut: A Spectacular Arrival

Meanwhile, Jon Rahm’s Legion XIII made an indelible mark in their inaugural appearance, capturing the team title with a commanding performance that left fans and pundits alike in awe. Despite Rahm narrowly missing the individual playoff, his leadership and strategic prowess propelled Legion XIII to a resounding victory, signaling their arrival as formidable contenders in the LIV Golf landscape.

Tales of Resilience: Surratt’s Star Turn

The triumph was not without its moments of tension and drama. From Niemann’s early setback to Rahm’s near miss, the competition at Mayakoba was a rollercoaster of emotions, captivating audiences with its unpredictability and intensity. Yet, amidst the nail-biting suspense, there emerged stories of resilience and redemption that added depth and intrigue to the spectacle.

Rising Star: Surratt’s Courageous Comeback

One such tale is that of Caleb Surratt, the 19-year-old prodigy who emerged as a breakout star in his professional debut. Despite facing adversity with a four-putt triple bogey, Surratt displayed remarkable poise and determination, rallying with five consecutive birdies to secure vital points for Legion XIII. His courage in the face of adversity symbolizes the indomitable spirit of the sport and serves as inspiration for aspiring golfers worldwide.

Celebrations and Reflections: The Essence of Victory

As the champagne flowed and celebrations ensued, the triumph of Niemann and Legion XIII underscored the captivating drama and sheer unpredictability that defines the world of professional golf. With each swing and each putt, these athletes showcased the unyielding pursuit of excellence that transcends mere competition, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of golf history.

Legion XIII captured the team trophy in an impressive LIV Golf debut. (Photo by Chris Trotman/LIV Golf)
Legion XIII captured the team trophy in an impressive LIV Golf debut. (Photo by Chris Trotman/LIV Golf)


COUNTING SCORES
Standings and counting scores for Sunday’s final round of the team competition at LIV Golf Mayakoba. The three best scores from each team count in the first two rounds while all four scores count in the final round. The team with the lowest cumulative score after three rounds wins the team title.

1. LEGION XIII -24 (Hatton 64, Surratt 67, Vincent 69, Rahm 70; Rd. 3 score -14)

2. CRUSHERS GC -20 (Lahiri 67, DeChambeau 68, Howell III 68, Casey 68; Rd. 3 score -13)

3.TORQUE GC -17 (Niemann 70, Muñoz 70, Ortiz 70, Pereira 70; Rd. 3 score -4)

4. STINGER GC -16 (Oosthuizen 67, Grace 68, Schwartzel 70, Burmester 70; Rd. 3 score -8)

5. RIPPER GC -16 (Jones 66, Smith 67, Leishman 70, Herbert 71; Rd. 3 score -10)

6. FIREBALLS GC -13 (Garcia 66, Ancer 67, Chacarra 71, Puig 71; Rd. 3 score -9)

7. SMASH GC -12 (Koepka 68, Gooch 68, McDowell 72, Kokrak 73; Rd. 3 score -3)

8. CLEEKS GC -9 (Bland 67, Kaymer 67, Samooja 70, Meronk 73; Rd. 3 score -7)

9. MAJESTICKS GC -7 (Westwood 69, Horsfield 69, Stenson 70, Poulter 71; Rd. 3 score -5)

10. RANGEGOATS GC +2 (Wolff 68, Uihlein 71, Watson 73, Pieters 73; Rd 3 score +1)

11. HYFLYERS GC +2 (Steele 70, Ogletree 70, Tringale 71, Mickelson 74; Rd. 3 score +1)

12. 4ACES GC +3 (Johnson 67, Perez 71, Reed 73, Varner III 77; Rd. 3 score +4)

13. IRON HEADS GC +6 (Na 70, Kozuma 71, Vincent 74, Lee 75; Rd. 3 score +6)

ROUND 3 NOTES

LEGION XIII MAKES GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION: Jon Rahm and his Legion XIII team are LIV Golf’s first expansion team, and Rahm himself said earlier in the week he wasn’t sure how quickly they would jell as a team.

As it turned out, it only took three rounds for them to become the ninth different LIV Golf team to win a trophy.

“For us to do what we did and perform and get the win, I’m glad that we proved it to ourselves and everybody that we’re a team to reckon with,” Rahm said.

Said Tyrrell Hatton: “I didn’t know what to expect. For all of us, these are new experiences. I really enjoyed the week, and winning as a team is good fun, and hopefully we can keep that going.”

FIRST INDIVIDUAL TITLE FOR TORQUE: Last year, Torque GC won a LIV Golf-best four-team trophies but were shut out in the individual competition. Captain Joaquin Niemann said he was glad to break through on that front, but he missed being able to celebrate with his team.

Torque started the final round with a five-shot lead but settled for third place after a cumulative score of 4 under.

As he conducted his winner’s interview, Niemann said he felt a “little bit alone.”

“It’s always fun to have the other three – Mito (Pereira), Sebastián (Muñoz) and Carlos (Ortiz) on my side here, especially in interviews,” he said. “It makes it a little bit more fun. It would’ve been nice being with them, throwing champagne.

“But I think it’s still good. We still had a good finish.”

GARCIA GLAD FOR CHANCE TO WIN: Although Fireballs GC Captain Sergio Garcia didn’t win the playoff against Joaquin Niemann, he was happy to at least be in contention – especially since he’s still working on things with his game.

“If you had told me before the week started that I would’ve been in this position, I would’ve taken this for sure,” Garcia said. “I wasn’t feeling great. My swing is still not feeling great. To be able to hang in there as much as I did and almost win without feeling very comfortable at all is a positive.  I need to get better, but I still managed to give myself a chance.”

BLAND RECORDS LIV GOLF’S 4TH ACE: Cleeks GC’s Richard Bland posted the fourth hole-in-one in LIV Golf history at the 152-yard par-3 8th in the final round. It’s the 11th ace in Bland’s career. The Englishman turned 51 on Saturday.

 

GAA Results & Reviews – Roscommon and Galway draw

Exciting Showdown Ends in a Deadlock: Roscommon 0-9 Galway 0-9

The clash between Roscommon and Galway at Dr. Hyde Park unfolded in a dramatic fashion, ultimately resulting in a hard-fought draw. Despite the windy conditions, both teams displayed commendable resilience, ensuring an intense battle until the final whistle.

First-Half Tussle

Galway, facing the wind, showcased their determination early on, with Robert Finnerty securing the first score of the game. Roscommon responded swiftly, led by the accurate Conor Cox and the industrious Daire Cregg, who helped them gain a narrow lead at halftime.

Galway’s Fightback

The second half saw Galway intensify their efforts, with Roscommon’s Eoin McCormack and Ben O’Carroll facing a relentless onslaught. Despite Galway’s Robert Finnerty and Cillian Ó Curraoin chipping away at Roscommon’s lead, the home side managed to maintain their advantage.

Nail-Biting Finish

As the game reached its climax, both teams sought a decisive breakthrough. However, missed opportunities plagued their efforts, leading to a deadlock at the final whistle. Donie Smith’s red card for Roscommon and Jack McCabe’s black card for Galway added further drama to the closing stages, ensuring a tense finale.

Reflections and Next Steps

Although the draw provided both teams with their first league points of the season, managers Davy Burke and Pádraic Joyce were left with mixed emotions. While they acknowledged the positives from their teams’ performances, they also identified areas for improvement as they prepare for the upcoming fixtures.

Conclusion

The clash between Roscommon and Galway encapsulated the spirit of GAA football, with both sides displaying determination, resilience, and skill. As they reflect on this thrilling encounter, both teams will draw inspiration from their performances as they strive for success in the remainder of the season.

Scorers for Roscommon: Conor Cox 0-5 (4fs), Daire Cregg 0-1, Ruaidhrí Fallon 0-1, Ben O’Carroll 0-1, Diarmuid Murtagh 0-1 (0-1f).

Scorers for Galway: Cillian Ó Curraoin 0-3 (2fs), Robert Finnerty 0-2 (2fs), Matthew Tierney 0-2 (1f), Kieran Molloy 0-1, Paul Conroy 0-1 (f).

Roscommon: Conor Carroll; David Murray, Niall Higgins, Robbie Dolan; Niall Daly, Ruaidhrí Fallon, Eoin McCormack; Enda Smith, Dylan Ruane; Cian Connolly, Donie Smith, Daire Cregg; Diarmuid Murtagh, Ciarán Lennon, Ben O’Carroll.

Subs: Conor Cox for Lennon 9, Brian Stack for Connolly 29, Keith Doyle for Ruane 43, James Fitzpatrick for Cregg 64, Evan Flynn for Dolan 70, Andrew Glennon for Murtagh 70.

Galway: Connor Gleeson; Johnny McGrath, Seán Fitzgerald, Eoghan Kelly; Dylan McHugh, John Daly, Seán Mulkerrin; Paul Conroy, John Maher; Kieran Molloy, Matthew Tierney, Cathal Sweeney; Liam Ó Conghaile, Robert Finnerty, Cillian Ó Curraoin.

Subs: Johnny Heaney for Kelly 38, Céin Darcy for Ó Curraoin 55, Jack McCabe for Finnerty 61, Patrick Egan for Mulkerrin 70.

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