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Understanding the Reasons Behind the Popularity of Betting in Ireland

Galway team to play Sligo in Connacht final 2023

Understanding the Reasons Behind the Popularity of Betting in Ireland

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In addition, the easy access to online betting sites and mobile apps has made it even more convenient for Irish bettors to place their wagers. The ability to bet on international markets and the tax incentives provided by the government have also contributed to the popularity of betting in Ireland.

However, it is important to note that while betting can be a fun and exciting activity, it can also lead to addiction and financial problems. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to gamble responsibly and seek help if they believe they have developed a gambling addiction.

 

 

Opportunities to bet on international markets

While several variables contribute to the rise in Irish betting, the opportunity to wager on foreign markets is among the most significant. This means that Irish bettors can make more informed betting decisions by taking advantage of international sporting events and competitions. With modern technology making it easier to access different markets across different countries, Irish punters have plenty of opportunities to compare prices and find better value bets. Furthermore, betting sites Ireland often provide special offers, such as free bets or bonus codes, which can increase winnings even further. These factors work together to create a setting where betting is both enjoyable and rewarding. It is, therefore, no surprise that so many people in Ireland are participating in this exciting activity.

 

 

Mobile technology

Mobile technology has brought about increased convenience for Irish betting fans, allowing them to place bets on their favorite sports teams or events without leaving their homes. Mobile technology also provides access to a wide variety of betting options, making it more convenient for bettors to place their bets.

Mobile apps have made it easier for Irish punters to place bets quickly and easily without worrying about long registration processes or waiting in line at a physical betting shop. Additionally, mobile apps allow bettors to track their bets and manage their accounts on the go, keeping them up-to-date with the latest news and developments in the world of betting while still enjoying other activities, such as watching sports or going out with friends.

Lastly, mobile-based betting platforms often offer incentives to encourage people further to participate in online gambling activities from the comfort of their homes.

Betting-friendly legislation

The Irish government has made it easy for its citizens to participate in gambling activities, including online gambling and sports betting. With the legalization of bookmakers’ operations in the country, the gambling industry has experienced significant growth.

Additionally, the government provides tax incentives to those who engage in sports betting or online gambling, which means that gamblers can enjoy their winnings without worrying about high taxes. Moreover, bookmakers offer various incentives and bonuses, making betting even more appealing to the public.

All of these factors have contributed to the increasing popularity of betting in Ireland.

The social aspect of betting

In Ireland, betting is seen as a way to unite people and create a community. It’s not just about winning or losing money; it’s also about having fun with friends and family. This social aspect makes betting more enjoyable for everyone involved, encouraging more people to participate.

Additionally, Irish culture values camaraderie and competition, so betting fits right into that mindset. People can come together to share their knowledge and strategies while competing against each other in friendly wagers. This creates an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation that keeps people returning for more.

Finally, the convenience factor also plays a role; with online betting sites available 24/7, anyone can place bets from anywhere at any time without having to leave their homes or offices. All these factors contribute to the popularity of betting in Ireland today.

Six Nations Ireland vs. Italy – Preview, Betting & Starting Teams

Six Nations Ireland vs. Italy Preview

Head Coach Andy Farrell unveils his Ireland Match Day Squad for the highly anticipated Round 2 clash against Italy in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations at Aviva Stadium.

Ireland’s Strong Start and Home Advantage

After securing a bonus point win against France in the Championship opener, Ireland returns to a packed Aviva Stadium for their first home match of 2024 against the Azzurri.

Caelan Doris Leads Ireland for the First Time

Caelan Doris makes history as he captains Farrell’s side, becoming the 110th player to lead the Ireland Men’s team in Test rugby.

Key Players and Lineup

Farrell opts for continuity, maintaining an unchanged back three with Hugo Keenan at full-back, alongside wings Calvin Nash and James Lowe. Notable inclusions include Stuart McCloskey in the midfield and Jack Crowley at out-half.

Promising Performances in the Pack

Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, and Finlay Bealham form the formidable front row, while James Ryan partners Joe McCarthy in the second row. Ryan Baird, Caelan Doris, and Jack Conan complete the starting pack.

Strong Bench Options

Farrell has a wealth of options among his replacements, including Ronan Kelleher, Iain Henderson, and Josh van der Flier, providing depth in both the pack and backline.

Italy’s Lineup Changes

Italy, seeking to bounce back from their defeat by England, make four changes to their lineup, with Ange Capuozzo, Stephen Varney, Alessandro Izekor, and Federico Ruzza returning.

Where to Watch

Catch the action live on Virgin Media One in the Republic of Ireland and ITV in the United Kingdom.

Betting Odds and Predictions

Ireland are an unbackable price, but you can get them at even money to win by 32pts or for those looking for a big price it’s 3/1 for new father Finlay Bealham to score a try

Starting Teams

Ireland: Keenan; Nash, Henshaw, McCloskey, Lowe; Crowley, Casey; Porter, Sheehan, Bealham, McCarthy, Ryan, Baird, Doris, Conan.

Replacements: Kelleher, Loughman, O’Toole, Henderson, Van der Flier, Gibson-Park, Byrne, Larmour.

Italy: Capuozzo; Pani, Brex, Menoncello, Ioane; P Garbisi, Varney; Fischetti, Lucchesi, Ceccarelli, N Cannone, Ruzza, Izekor, Zuliani, Lamaro (capt).

Replacements: Nicotera, Spagnolo, Zilocchi, Zambonin, Vintcent, Page-Relo, Allan, Mori.

Referee: Luke Pearce (Eng)

The State of Two-Mile Hurdlers: Mullins’ Musings

The State of Two-Mile Hurdlers: Mullins’ Musings

Mullins’ Hopeful Outlook

Willie Mullins, with a hint of mischief, contemplates State Man‘s potential improvement compared to his defeat against Constitution Hill last year. Asked about State Man’s current standing, Mullins initially responds with hope, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding their relative abilities. However, he subtly hints at State Man’s progress, noting that the horse has been performing well and has been active on the track. This playful commentary sets the stage for a deeper analysis of State Man’s recent performances.

Assessing State Man’s Performance

Evidence suggests State Man’s form this season may surpass his previous best, including three Grade One wins in Ireland. Mullins reflects on State Man’s recent victories, pondering whether his latest triumph was superior to his impressive Christmas performance. This analysis provides insight into State Man’s current form and his potential for further improvement as he prepares for future races. Many people on Punters Page UK cannot see anything but Constitution Hill winning.

Reflecting on State Man’s Recent Victory

Mullins reflects on State Man’s recent win, contemplating whether it was better than his Christmas performance. Despite State Man’s previous defeat against Constitution Hill, Mullins highlights the horse’s resilience and consistent performance throughout the season. This reflection offers a nuanced perspective on State Man’s abilities and his potential as a contender in upcoming races.

Townend’s Perspective

Paul Townend discusses State Man’s performance in the 2023 Champion Hurdle and his hopes for this year. Townend shares his insights into State Man’s performance in the Champion Hurdle, acknowledging the challenges they faced during the race. However, he remains optimistic about State Man’s prospects and expresses his desire for a competitive rematch against Constitution Hill. Townend’s perspective adds depth to the discussion, providing valuable insights into the jockey’s mindset and expectations for the upcoming season.

State Man’s Recent Victory

State Man secures his second Irish Champion Hurdle victory, defeating Bob Olinger by five-and-a-half lengths. The race unfolds with State Man showcasing his speed and agility, ultimately emerging victorious against a competitive field. State Man’s impressive performance further solidifies his status as a top contender in the two-mile hurdling division, setting the stage for future showdowns with his rivals.

Impaire Et Passe’s Performance

Impaire Et Passe’s performance and future plans are discussed after finishing third in the recent race. Despite finishing behind State Man and Bob Olinger, Impaire Et Passe demonstrates resilience and determination throughout the race. The discussion explores Impaire Et Passe’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as his potential for future success in different racing environments. This analysis provides valuable insights into Impaire Et Passe’s racing career and his prospects for the upcoming season.

Cheltenham Plans

Bob Olinger and Impaire Et Passe opt for the Aintree Hurdle over Cheltenham, while Mullins considers fences for Impaire Et Passe next season. The decision to bypass Cheltenham reflects the trainers’ strategic planning and their assessment of their horses’ capabilities. Mullins’ consideration of future plans for Impaire Et Passe adds depth to the discussion, highlighting the trainer’s long-term vision for his horses’ careers. This analysis offers valuable insights into the decision-making process behind race planning and preparation.

Mullins’ Perspective on State Man

Mullins praises State Man’s consistency and professionalism, highlighting his strengths as a hurdler. Mullins emphasizes State Man’s reliability and adaptability, noting his ability to perform well under various circumstances. This perspective sheds light on Mullins’ admiration for State Man as a racehorse and his confidence in the horse’s abilities. Mullins’ commentary adds depth to the discussion, providing valuable insights into his relationship with State Man and his expectations for the upcoming season.

Assessing Constitution Hill

Critique of Constitution Hill’s performance and market perception following his recent victories. Despite his impressive performances, Constitution Hill faces scrutiny from critics who question the depth of his competition and the sustainability of his success. This analysis offers a balanced perspective on Constitution Hill’s abilities and his potential as a dominant force in the two-mile hurdling division. By examining Constitution Hill’s performance from multiple angles, the discussion provides valuable insights into the horse’s racing career and his prospects for the future.

Mullins’ Hope for the Future

Mullins expresses hope for a competitive rematch between State Man and Constitution Hill. Mullins acknowledges the challenges posed by Constitution Hill but remains optimistic about State Man’s prospects. This hopeful outlook sets the stage for an exciting rivalry between two top contenders in the two-mile hurdling division. Mullins’ commentary adds depth to the discussion, providing valuable insights into his expectations for the upcoming season and his confidence in State Man’s abilities.

Premier League to Trial Sin-Binning Players and Issuing Blue Cards

Premier League to Trial Sin-Binning Players and Issuing Blue Cards

Football’s lawmakers, Ifab, are set to introduce trials for sin-binning players and issuing blue cards, with an announcement expected on Friday. Sin-bins, typically used at grassroots levels for dissent, may now extend to cynical fouls as part of this trial.

The Sin-Bin Trial: What to Expect

During the trial, players receiving a blue card from the referee will spend 10 minutes in the technical area. However, details regarding the start date and participating competitions are yet to be confirmed.

Premier League Stance and Fifa’s Position

The Premier League has opted out of the initial trial rollout, while Fifa clarified that reports of implementing the ‘blue card’ at elite levels are premature. Fifa emphasizes responsible testing at lower levels and will address this agenda item at the upcoming Ifab AGM in March.

Ifab’s Agenda: Sin-Bin Trials at Higher Levels

Ifab’s annual meeting in March will delve into sin-bin trials at higher levels of the game, aiming to discuss and potentially implement changes for professional matches.

Success of Previous Trials and Future Prospects

Sin-bins were piloted in 2018-19, resulting in a significant reduction in dissent across multiple leagues. Implemented in grassroots and lower-tier football, these trials seek to enhance respect and fair play on the field.

Exploring Tactical Fouls and Beyond

 

Mark Bullingham, FA’s chief executive, highlights the frustration among fans due to tactical fouls disrupting promising plays. The consideration to extend sin-binning to tactical fouls reflects ongoing efforts to address player behavior and uphold the integrity of the game.

Neil Lennon vs. Lee Carsley: Next Republic of Ireland Manager

Neil Lennon vs. Lee Carsley: The Race for the Republic of Ireland Managerial Position

The Republic of Ireland is in the final stages of selecting their next manager, with Lee Carsley emerging as a strong contender despite previous doubts.

Lee Carsley: The Front-Runner?

Lee Carsley, the preferred choice by bookmakers, was initially hesitant about replacing Stephen Kenny. However, recent developments suggest the FAI is actively pursuing him for the role.

The FAI’s Determination

FAI director of football Marc Canham emphasized the urgency of the selection process, aiming to secure a manager before upcoming friendlies and the Nations League draw.

Financial Considerations

While financial constraints are a factor, FAI chief executive Jonathan Hill clarified that the budget won’t compromise the search for the right candidate.

Other Contenders

Apart from Carsley, former Celtic boss Neil Lennon and Roy Keane, among others, have been considered for the position. The decision-making team includes Canham, Hill, and independent director Packie Bonner.

The Timeline

The FAI had hoped to finalise the appointment before the Nations League draw, but the process is ongoing. Ireland’s upcoming fixtures underscore the importance of a timely decision.

The Road Ahead

With friendly matches scheduled and Euro 2024 out of reach, the new manager faces the task of revitalizing the team’s performance after a disappointing qualifying campaign under Kenny.

Premier League Darts Berlin – Video Highlights and results from epic night

Van Gerwen’s Triumph in Berlin Premier League Night Two

**Michael van Gerwen** emerged victorious after a tense battle against **Luke Littler** in Berlin’s thrilling BetMGM Premier League action.

Van Gerwen’s Journey to Victory

The reigning champion showcased his prowess with a series of ton-plus averages, solidifying his quest for an eighth darts crown. Van Gerwen secured hard-fought victories against **Nathan Aspinall** and Night One winner **Michael Smith** before facing a late scare against Littler.

Triumph Over Aspinall and Smith

In the quarter-finals, Van Gerwen displayed resilience against Aspinall, rallying from a 4-1 deficit to secure victory with five consecutive legs. Despite the World Matchplay champion’s early onslaught, Van Gerwen’s determination propelled him to success.

In the semi-finals, Van Gerwen avenged his previous loss to table-topper Smith with a decisive 11-darter in the decider. His unwavering focus and skillful play ensured his spot in the final showdown.

The Final Battle

Facing an early deficit against Littler, Van Gerwen responded with a remarkable display of skill and composure. Despite Littler’s strong start, Van Gerwen’s experience shone through as he seized control of the match. Ultimately, he secured victory with a crucial double four, clinching the Night Two title.

Littler’s Stellar Performance

Although Littler fell short in the final, his performance throughout the tournament was nothing short of impressive. With victories over **Rob Cross** and **Luke Humphries**, Littler showcased exceptional skill and potential, earning recognition as a rising star in the darts world.

Notable Matches

In addition to the thrilling final, the night’s action featured several notable matches. **Peter Wright** opened his Premier League account with a hard-fought 6-4 win over **Gerwyn Price**, showcasing his resilience and determination. Meanwhile, Smith staged a remarkable comeback against Price, demonstrating his ability to overcome adversity on the darts stage.

What’s Next?

The excitement of the BetMGM Premier League continues as the competition moves to Glasgow’s OVO Hydro. Van Gerwen is set to face off against Scottish number one Peter Wright in what promises to be a highly anticipated match. Other matches on the agenda include Littler against Price, Humphries versus Aspinall, and Cross taking on Smith in the Night Three opener.

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.

 

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