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Connacht v Ulster – Preview, Stats, Team News & TV

Connacht play Ulster at 7:35pm on Saturday, its 2nd v 3rd in the table. Game is live on @SportTG4

Connacht has kicked off their 2023/24 BKT United Rugby Championship season impressively, securing back-to-back 34-26 victories at the Sportsground against Ospreys and Glasgow, marking their best start since 2014/15.

Ulster have also started the season with two wins, away to Zebre and home to the Bulls.

Connacht has won both their matches 34-26, while Ulster have won 36-40 and 26-19.

In the past year, Connacht has been defeated just once at the Sportsground, a loss to today’s opponents, Ulster, in the URC on December 23.

Ulster, on the other hand, has been on a strong streak, with their only loss in the last eight BKT United Rugby Championship matches being a 10-15 defeat at home to today’s opponents, Connacht, in last season’s quarter-final.

However, Connacht has struggled against Ulster recently, winning only one of their last four encounters, and Ulster has triumphed in their last two visits to Galway.

GAA Games Round Up: October 29, 2023

GAA Games Round Up: October 29, 2023. The last Sunday of October saw some thrilling GAA games across the country, with county titles up for grabs in both football and hurling. Here is a summary of the results and highlights from each game.

Ballina Stephenites claim 22nd Mayo SFC title

Ballina Stephenites defeated Breaffy by a score of 0-06 to 0-04 in the Connacht Gold Mayo Senior Football Championship Final. It was a low-scoring and tense game, with both teams finding it hard to score. Ballina Stephenites showed more composure and experience, and secured their 22nd county title. Breaffy, who had never won the title before, were left disappointed.

Rathgormack end 17-year wait for Waterford SFC title

Rathgormack dominated The Nire and won by a comfortable scoreline of 1-9 to 0-06 in the JJ Kavanagh & Sons Waterford Senior Football Championship Final. Rathgormack’s goal came from Jason Curry in the first half, and they never looked back as they controlled the game. Rathgormack ended their 17-year wait for their 10th county title.

Na Fianna hammer Ballyboden to win Dublin SHC title

Na Fianna thrashed Ballyboden St Enda’s by a whopping 2-19 to 0-09 in the Go Ahead Dublin Senior 1 Hurling Championship Final. Na Fianna were unstoppable, with Donal Burke scoring 1-10 and Colin Currie adding another goal. Na Fianna lifted their third county title, and their first since 2001.

Kiladangan edge out Thurles Sarsfields in Tipperary SHC final replay

Kiladangan edged out Thurles Sarsfields by a single point, 1-21 to 1-20, in the FBD Insurance – County Tipperary Senior Hurling Championship Final Replay. Kiladangan’s goal came from Bryan McLoughney in the second half, and they held on to win despite a late surge from Thurles Sarsfields. Kiladangan claimed their second county title, and their first since 2016.

O’Loughlin Gaels stun Ballyhale Shamrocks in Kilkenny SHC final

O’Loughlin Gaels stunned Shamrocks Ballyhale by a narrow margin of 0-20 to 0-19 in the St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship Final. O’Loughlin Gaels trailed by four points at half-time, but staged a remarkable comeback in the second half, with Mark Bergin scoring 0-12. O’Loughlin Gaels won their fifth county title, and their first since 2010.

Fulham Irish upset Tir Chonaill Gaels to win London SFC title

Fulham Irish upset Tir Chonaill Gaels by a score of 0-11 to 0-08 in the McAleer & Rushe London Senior Football Championship Final. Fulham Irish led by three points at half-time, and maintained their advantage in the second half, with Liam Staunton scoring 0-06. Fulham Irish clinched their second county title, and their first since 2017.

Trillick St Macartan’s beat Errigal Ciaran to win Tyrone SFC title

Trillick St. Macartan’s beat Errigal Ciaran by a score of 1-13 to 0-13 in the Connolly’s of Moy Tyrone Senior Football Championship Final. Trillick St. Macartan’s scored the only goal of the game in the first half, courtesy of Lee Brennan, and held off Errigal Ciaran’s challenge in the second half. Trillick St. Macartan’s captured their sixth county title, and their first since 2015.

St Thomas defeat Turloughmore to win Galway SHC title

St Thomas defeated Turloughmore by a score of 2-12 to 1-13 in the Brooks Galway Senior Hurling Championship Final. St Thomas scored two goals in quick succession in the second half, from Darragh Burke and Eanna Burke, and held on to win despite a late rally from Turloughmore. St Thomas claimed their fourth county title, and their first since 2019.

Castlehaven overcome Nemo Rangers to win Cork PSF title

Castlehaven overcame Nemo Rangers by a score of 0-11 to 0-09 in the Bon Secours Hospital Cork Premier Senior Football Final. Castlehaven led by two points at half-time, and extended their lead to five points in the second half, with Brian Hurley scoring 0-05. Castlehaven secured their fourth county title, and their first since 2013.

Glen hammer Magherafelt to win first ever Derry SFC title

Glen hammered Magherafelt by a score of 1-13 to 0-07 in the O’Neills Derry Senior Football Championship Final. Glen scored the only goal of the game in the first half, from Danny Tallon, and dominated the game throughout. Glen lifted their first ever county title.

Blessington beat Rathnew in Wicklow SFC final replay

Blessington beat Rathnew by a score of 0-11 to 1-05 in the Boom & Platform Hire Wicklow Senior Football Championship Final Replay. Blessington led by four points at half-time, and maintained their lead in the second half, despite a goal from Leighton Glynn for Rathnew. Blessington won their third county title, and their first since 2004.

Video Explainer – T1 Rugby – New Non Contact Rugby

World Rugby’s Latest Innovation: T1 Rugby – A Game for Everyone

In an exciting move, World Rugby has introduced T1 Rugby, a groundbreaking non-contact sport that preserves the essence of traditional rugby, featuring elements such as scrums, lineouts, and breakdowns. This innovative step aims to boost engagement and accessibility for young people worldwide.

T1 Rugby is positioned as “a game for everyone, played by anyone,” with a strong focus on enjoyment, fitness, inclusivity, and efficient use of time. This format promises a welcoming and safe environment for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, aligning with World Rugby’s global sport-for-all mission.

What sets T1 Rugby apart is its ability to mirror the key characteristics of rugby, including lineouts, scrums, kicking, and the essence of a rugby match, all while maintaining a non-contact nature. This unique approach retains the attacking and defending aspects of rugby, requiring players to make strategic decisions.

Remarkably, participants have reported understanding the rules in under 20 minutes, highlighting the game’s simplicity and its authentic rugby feel. Players have expressed a strong desire to play T1 Rugby regularly if given the opportunity.

World Rugby is set to launch T1 Rugby globally through its national member unions. The format was previewed during the Rugby World Cup 2023 media match in Paris on October 17. Member unions, spanning from England and New Zealand to Laos and Vietnam, have contributed to T1 Rugby’s development, as it offers a flexible format to expand rugby’s reach worldwide.

As global participation rates, especially among young people in emerging rugby markets, have seen an 11% increase in the past year, T1 Rugby is poised to become the cornerstone of World Rugby’s Get Into Rugby program. This new non-contact sport is expected to gain traction in clubs and schools worldwide.

Alan Gilpin, World Rugby’s Chief Executive, expressed enthusiasm for the introduction of T1 Rugby, emphasizing the sport’s accessibility to a diverse and younger audience. With its potential to expand beyond traditional nations and demographics, T1 Rugby is set to play a pivotal role in the growth of rugby, especially with the forthcoming men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups in the USA.

Ireland’s women’s rugby team to play Spain

Ireland Women’s WXV Squad Announced: Bemand’s Lineup for Decisive Showdown with Spain in Dubai

Ireland’s women’s head coach, Scott Bemand, has unveiled his match day squad for the critical final round of WXV3 against Spain, scheduled for Saturday at the Sevens Stadium in Dubai. Kick-off: 5pm local time/2pm Irish time.

After remarkable victories over Kazakhstan and Colombia in the opening rounds, Bemand’s team is on the verge of securing the inaugural WXV3 title. The upcoming match against Spain will determine the ultimate winner.

Although the identity of the three European teams for WXV2 in 2024 will be decided through regional qualifiers, this weekend remains pivotal. Ireland currently leads the standings with one point ahead of Spain and an impressive points difference of +131. A simple avoidance of defeat in Dubai will see Ireland claim the first-ever WXV3 title.

Bemand’s squad for the final round showcases experience, with co-captains Sam Monaghan and Edel McMahon leading the second row and back row, respectively. The pack is further fortified with the inclusion of Linda Djougang, Neve Jones, and Christy Haney in the front row, while Dorothy Wall partners with Monaghan in the engine room. Grace Moore, McMahon, and Brittany Hogan are in their respective positions of blindside flanker, openside, and number eight.

The backline presents a dynamic mix of youth and experience, with Meabh Deely, Beibhinn Parsons, and Natasja Behan forming the back three, and a center partnership of Aoife Dalton and Eve Higgins. Molly Scuffil-McCabe and Dannah O’Brien are selected as the half-backs.

Bemand expressed, “Competition for places in this final round squad has been high, which is exactly where we want to be. It has taken 31 players to get to this point, and both this squad and individuals have grown over these three weeks. We have history with Spain and know this will be a challenging test for our squad.”

Don’t miss Saturday’s match; you can stream it for free on RugbyPass TV, and there will be live updates on Irish Rugby’s social media channels.

World Rugby’s Decision on Alleged Racial Slur by Bongi Mbonambi

Women’s AIL rugby standings after 3 rounds
Credit: @URCOfficial.

Bongi Mbonambi will not face charges for the alleged racial slur towards Tom Curry, according to World Rugby.

The governing body cited “insufficient evidence,” and the case is considered closed.

Here’s the FULL WORLD RUGBY STATEMENT:

“World Rugby has reviewed allegations by England’s Tom Curry regarding discriminatory language used by South Africa’s Mbongeni Mbonambi. The review covered the recent England versus South Africa Rugby World Cup 2023 semi-final and a previous match in the Autumn Nations Series 2022.

World Rugby takes discrimination allegations seriously and conducted a thorough investigation, considering all available evidence, including match footage, audio, and input from both teams. The conclusion is that there is currently insufficient evidence to proceed with charges, and the matter is considered closed unless additional evidence emerges.

It’s important to note that World Rugby acknowledges Tom Curry’s good faith in making the allegations, and there’s no indication of deliberate falsehood or malice.

World Rugby is also concerned about the social media abuse both players have endured this week. Discrimination, abuse, or hate speech have no place in rugby or society, and World Rugby encourages fans to uphold the sport’s values of respect, integrity, and solidarity.”

Bundee Aki’s Remarkable Achievement : 2023 World Player of the Year Nomination

 Bundee Aki’s Remarkable Journey: 2023 World Player of the Year Nomination

Bundee’s Journey

Fua Leiofi Bundellu Aki, born on April 7, 1990, is a professional rugby union athlete, primarily serving as a center for the Connacht team in the United Rugby Championship. Hailing from New Zealand, he competes on the international stage for Ireland, having become eligible through residency qualifications.

Narrow Defeat to New Zealand

Ireland’s journey in the World Cup was nothing short of thrilling. Their campaign was marked by their incredible effort and teamwork. In the quarter-finals, they faced the formidable New Zealand All Blacks and, although they narrowly lost, Bundee Aki’s performance was nothing short of outstanding. His tenacity and skill on the field were key factors that nearly carried Ireland to victory against one of the world’s rugby powerhouses. New Zealand are 4/5 to win the Workd Cup on Saturday with Betiton sports

Connacht Rugby’s Pride

The nomination of Bundee Aki for the 2023 World Player of the Year will be a source of immense pride for Connacht Rugby and their fans.

Bundee, a stalwart of the club, has consistently been a shining star, not only for Connacht but also on the international stage. His performance at the World Cup underlines the quality and commitment that Connacht Rugby instills in its players.

The Most Consistent Player

In the world of rugby, consistency is a virtue highly cherished. Bundee Aki’s performance during the World Cup clearly demonstrated his ability to maintain an exceptional level of play throughout the tournament. He was undoubtedly the most consistent player, showcasing his skills, vision, and dedication on the pitch.

 

Reliable Links to Watch English Premier League Football in Vietnam

Watching football is one of the primary entertainment needs for many people in Vietnam. Therefore, finding reliable links to watch the English Premier League (EPL) live in Vietnam is crucial.

Reliable Links to Watch English Premier League Football in Vietnam

In an increasingly digital age, watching EPL football matches online has become an integral part of the lives of sports enthusiasts in Vietnam. However, finding trustworthy and high-quality live streaming links is not always straightforward. In this article, we will introduce some sources for watching EPL football live in Vietnam, ensuring that you don’t miss any matches from this premier global tournament.

The Significance of EPL Football Links

EPL football links have gained increasing prominence among football enthusiasts in Vietnam due to several compelling factors, including:

Meeting the Entertainment and Sporting Needs of Fans

The English Premier League stands as one of the most prestigious football leagues in the world, featuring iconic clubs such as Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, and many others. The matches in this league attract an immense level of interest from Vietnamese fans. Reliable EPL football links provide them with a convenient means to follow their favorite matches without the necessity of physically attending stadiums or subscribing to premium television services.

Convenience and Diversity

EPL football links offer an unparalleled level of convenience for fans, allowing them to watch matches at any time and from any location, as long as they possess an internet connection. This is especially advantageous for individuals with hectic schedules or limited access to fixed television channels. Moreover, the diversity of EPL football links allows fans to select their preferred broadcasting sources and quality levels, catering to their individual preferences.

Fostering the Growth of Fan Communities

EPL football links serve as more than mere personal entertainment tools; they have the power to create vibrant online communities of fans. These platforms enable fans to engage in discussions, share their emotions, and connect with like-minded individuals through forums, social media websites, or chat applications. This fosters a sense of unity and establishes a positive interactive environment among people who share a common passion for the sport.

Keeping EPL Football Links Updated

Maintaining the currency of EPL football links is a vital task for fans, and there exists a multitude of appealing options for this purpose:

Xoilac

Xoilac is a reputable website known for providing live streaming links for English Premier League matches. This platform frequently offers multiple live streaming sources from international channels, including prominent British channels such as Sky Sports and BT Sport. Xoilac offers viewers the flexibility to watch matches online or download them for later viewing, allowing them to follow their favorite matches at their own convenience. However, users should perform regular checks to ensure the stability of the live links on Xoilac.

90phut TV

90phut TV is a popular website within the Vietnamese football fan community. It serves as a valuable source for live streaming links to English Premier League matches and various other international tournaments. 90phut TV maintains swift updates of its streaming links, ensuring that fans do not miss out on any important matches. Nevertheless, as with any online service, the stability and quality of live streaming links may fluctuate, necessitating regular checks for a seamless viewing experience.

K+ (K Plus)

K+ is a premium television service in Vietnam renowned for broadcasting English Premier League matches and an array of other international sports events. For users seeking to watch EPL matches live with the utmost quality and reliability, K+ is a prime choice. They also provide mobile applications, enabling fans to watch matches live on their mobile devices. However, to access the K+ service, users need to subscribe and pay a monthly fee.

Facebook and YouTube Live Streams

In addition to dedicated websites and apps, many fans seek out live streams of EPL matches on social media platforms such as Facebook and YouTube. Numerous sports enthusiasts create their own online channels and share free live broadcasts. Nonetheless, caution is warranted when using these sources, as not all of them are legal or of high quality. Viewers should verify the credibility of the streamers before deciding to watch matches through these channels.

Combining Multiple Sources for Enhanced Reliability

To ensure that they do not miss any important EPL matches, fans often employ a strategy of combining multiple sources for live streaming. This may encompass the use of official apps, established websites like K+, and unofficial online streams found on social media. Employing a combination of these options helps maintain a state of readiness and flexibility, preventing interruptions or disconnections in the event of any unforeseen issues.

In Conclusion

This comprehensive article has imparted detailed information about reliable English Premier League football links in Vietnam. With the multitude of online streaming sources and mobile applications available, sports enthusiasts have numerous options for enjoying the thrilling matches of this premier global tournament. To ensure the best viewing experience, fans should stay updated and verify the legitimacy of the streaming sources.

Inside the Latest Trends in Online Casinos for Hockey Fans

Over the years, online casinos have evolved to become an integral part of the gambling industry.

Compared to their land-based counterpart, online gambling sites offer a way where players can play their favorite games from the comfort of their homes.

There is also access to a wider catalog of games tailored to suit the preference of players. From movie-themed to sports-themed games, online casinos are making it easy for everyone to get onboard. However, the industry is evolving rapidly, and fans of sports like Hockey might have difficulty keeping up with the latest trends. Here we’ll discuss how hockey fans can take advantage of online casinos’ latest trends.

The importance of quality information in online gambling can never be understated. That’s why expert Ella Houghton tells where there are sites where you can play games for real money are dedicated to providing players with the best gambling tips. You can visit her profile here.

Latest Trends in Online Casinos for Hockey Fans

2020 saw a rise in the popularity of online casinos. Due to the effects of the pandemic and the eventual closure of land-based casinos, players had no choice but to enjoy their favorite games online.

The pandemic also affected the sports industry as sports games couldn’t be held. So fans of Hockey who couldn’t watch their team play had to look for other sources of entertainment that matched their love for the sport.

The industry listened, and now, there are lots of opportunities for hockey fans to explore online casinos. Here are some online casino trends for hockey fans and some that should be expected shortly.

Themed Slots

Ever wondered what kinds of online casinos hockey fans love? Well, they mostly love to play slots; you seriously cannot blame them. Slots have maintained their spot as the most popular online casino games for decades.

They are easy to learn, play, and win big. Couple this with the fact that many software providers are now producing Hockey themed games, and you’ll get why they are the perfect match for hockey fans. Examples of hockey-titled slot games include Push Gaming’s Hockey Hero and Microgaming’s Break Away. The latter is built with incredible hockey aesthetics that features goalkeepers, skaters, umpires, and players.

They also feature an x2000 bonus and x10 multiplier, so fans will both enjoy and win big. Hockey-themed slots are now available in many popular online casinos.

Branded Games

The overturning of the US gambling ban in 2018 has led many online casino providers to partner with sports teams. The Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL) now have customized slots and blackjack games. So fans of the team can now play their favorite casino game in their team’s colors.

This is one of the online casino trends that are expected to hit Hockey in the coming years. Hockey fans will soon see casino games with graphics featuring their team.

Furthermore, hockey fans should expect more Hockey style game shows. Like the popular Football Studio, they can expect shows that allow fans to wager on the results of a casino-style hockey match.

The Bottom Line

The evolution of the online casino industry has made it easy for players to enjoy their favorite games from home. Even fans of sports like Hockey now have lots of opportunities available to them.

Hockey fans and online casinos can now exist together thanks to the latest trends. There are now themed slots that feature players, umpires, goalkeepers, and skaters. Upcoming development might also see popular online casino brands partner with Hockey teams to develop slots and blackjack games tailored to specific teams.

New Format and possible pool draw for 2027 Rugby World Cup

Bundee Aki try at World Cup

It’s already time to talk about the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with lots of changes to the format and another four years for Irish fans to dream about a semi-final

Expanded to 24 Teams

One of the most significant alterations to the Rugby World Cup format will be the expansion to 24 teams. This expansion is a bold move that aims to make the tournament more inclusive and bring rugby to new corners of the world. The increased number of teams will undoubtedly lead to a more diverse and competitive tournament.

Introducing the Round of 16

In a move that mirrors the format of other major international sports tournaments, the Rugby World Cup will now feature a Round of 16. This means that the top two teams from each pool, along with the best four third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stage. This change adds an extra layer of excitement to the competition and ensures that more teams have a chance to progress deeper into the tournament.

Reduced Window and Pool Phase

To streamline the tournament and ensure it remains a logistical triumph, the Rugby World Cup in 2027 will reduce its duration. Previously, the competition spanned six weeks (or seven weekends), but now it will take place in a shorter five-week period. This change is designed to minimize player fatigue and maintain the high level of intensity that fans have come to expect from the Rugby World Cup.

Late Pool Draw

Another intriguing change is the decision to conduct the pool draw in January 2026 This move is aimed at maximizing the suspense and intrigue surrounding the tournament. It means that teams and fans will have a shorter wait to discover their opponents but it will avoid the 2021 debacle of the top five teams on one side of the draw.

Six Pools of Four Teams

The new format will see the teams divided into six pools, each consisting of four teams. This setup ensures a balanced and competitive group stage, with each team having an equal opportunity to advance to the Round of 16. The pool phase is shortened from four to five weeks, maintaining a rapid pace and keeping fans engaged throughout.

Possible pools for Rugby World Cup 2027 according to current World Rankings 

South Africa, Argentina, Portugal, Spain

New Zealand, Wales, Georgia, Romania

Ireland, Australia, Samoa, Namibia

France, Fiji, Tonga, Chile

England, Italy, Uruguay, Canada

Scotland, Japan, USA, Hong Kong

Other possible teams : Brazil, Netherlands, Switzerland, Korea, Zimbabwe.

 

 

 

AIL Rugby – Weekly review and league table standings

AIL rugby standings after 3 rounds

The 2023/24 Energia All-Ireland League rugby season is off to an exhilarating start, with some familiar names and a few newcomers making their presence felt across various divisions.

 

As the league takes a short break over the bank holiday weekend, let’s take a look at the standings and highlights after three rounds of thrilling rugby action.

**Women’s Division**

AIL rugby standings after 3 rounds Women’s
In the Women’s Division, UL Bohemians lead the charge with an impeccable record of five wins, all secured with bonus points. Railway Union is nipping at their heels, boasting a perfect four out of four record. Meanwhile, Belvedere and Blackrock are not far behind, each with three wins out of four games, narrowly pushing Ballincollig into fifth place.

**Men’s Division 1A**

In Men’s Division 1A, the top of the league table features some familiar names. Lansdowne and Clontarf are setting the pace after three rounds of intense competition. Reigning champions Terenure are yet to hit their stride, and the standout story so far is City of Armagh, who find themselves just outside the top four after a significant win against Shannon.

**Men’s Division 1B**

AIL rugby standings after 3 rounds 1b
St. Mary’s leads the way in Men’s Division 1B with three bonus point wins. Highfield, Old Wesley, and Queens make up the top four. On the flip side, Buccaneers have yet to secure a win, making their quest for a turnaround all the more challenging.

**Men’s Division 2A**

AIL rugby standings after 3 rounds 2a
Division 2A is shaping up as a closely contested battleground, with only seven points separating Nenagh Ormond at the top and Banbridge in seventh place. Cashel, UL Bohemians, and Greystones complete the top four, but the highly competitive nature of the division suggests there’s room for significant changes as the season progresses.

**Men’s Division 2B**

AIL rugby standings after 3 rounds 2B
In Men’s Division 2B, Instonians are making a statement with an unbeaten record of three wins, complete with bonus points. Corinthians, Wanderers, and Sligo are level on 11 points, rounding out the top four. Meanwhile, Rainey finds themselves without a win, but there’s still plenty of rugby to be played and a chance for them to bounce back.

**Men’s Division 2C**

AIL rugby standings after 3 rounds 2C
Clogher Valley continues their remarkable rise in Men’s Division 2C, with a perfect record of maximum points from their first three games. Galwegians and Bruff are hot on their heels, just a point behind, while Enniscorthy secures the fourth spot. Bangor and Ballina have yet to taste victory but have plenty of opportunities to turn their fortunes around.

The 2023/24 Energia All-Ireland League rugby season promises excitement, competition, and a dash of the unexpected. As the league takes a short break, rugby enthusiasts eagerly await the action-packed November 4th return date to see which teams will continue to shine and which dark horses might emerge as the season unfolds.

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