Review and video highlights – Canavan inspires Tyrone result against Roscommon

Tyrone Triumph: Canavan Inspires Comeback Victory in Allianz League Opener

In a riveting showdown at O’Neill’s Healy Park, Tyrone launched their Allianz League Division One campaign with a captivating performance, orchestrated by the sensational Darragh Canavan, despite facing adversity with 14 men after Conn Kilpatrick’s expulsion.

First Half Recap:

– **Early Drama:** Roscommon took the lead through Diarmuid Murtagh’s strike, only for Canavan to respond swiftly, before Donie Smith’s goal swung momentum back in Roscommon’s favor.
– **Intensity Intact:** The first half showcased a fierce battle, highlighted by the emergence of Tyrone’s newcomers like Ciaran Daly, while Roscommon capitalized on counterattacks to keep the scoreline tight.

Half-Time Lead:

– **Tyrone’s Resurgence:** Despite facing stiff resistance, Tyrone clawed their way to a slender lead at halftime, courtesy of pivotal contributions from Seanie O’Donnell, Ben Cullen, and Niall Devlin.

Second Half Drama:

– **Numerical Setback:** Roscommon capitalized on Tyrone’s temporary numerical disadvantage after Dylan Ruane’s expulsion, but the tide turned further when Kilpatrick saw red.
– **Canavan’s Heroics:** Canavan’s heroics stole the show as he ignited a breathtaking rally, netting four consecutive points to propel Tyrone into a commanding position.

Closing Moments:

– **Tyrone’s Grit:** Led by Brian Kennedy’s leadership and stout defense, Tyrone weathered Roscommon’s late onslaught, denying scoring opportunities and securing the hard-fought victory.
– **Heart-Stopping Finish:** Despite Roscommon’s valiant effort, Tyrone’s resilience prevailed, sealing the win and igniting hopes for a successful league campaign.

Conclusion:

Tyrone’s triumphant start, fueled by Canavan’s masterclass and unwavering team spirit, sets a promising tone for their Division One journey, reaffirming their status as contenders and leaving fans eagerly anticipating the battles ahead.

FULL-TIME HIGHLIGHTS: Victory for Tyrone as they kickstart their Allianz Football League Division 1 campaign. @TyroneGAALive 0-17@RoscommonGAA 1-11#GAANOW pic.twitter.com/tuW0QJBVOC

— The GAA (@officialgaa) January 28, 2024

Scorers for Tyrone: D Canavan 0-8 (3f), C Daly 0-3, N Devlin 0-2, P Hampsey, M McKernan, S O’Donnell (m), B Cullen 0-1 each.

Scorers for Roscommon: D Murtagh 0-5 (4f), D Smith 1-0, N Daly, C Lennon, E Flynn, C Connolly, K Doyle, J Fitzpatrick 0-1 each.

TYRONE: N Morgan; C Devlin, P Hampsey, C Quinn; A Clarke, M McKernan, T Quinn; B Kennedy, C Kilpatrick; N Devlin, P Harte, B Cullen; S O’Donnell, D Canavan, N Devlin. Subs: R Canavan for T Quinn (56), D Mulgrew for C Quinn (inj 63), J Donaghy for Cullen (75).

ROSCOMMON: C Carroll; D Murray, E Flynn, N Higgins; C Walsh, N Daly, E McCormack; K Doyle, D Ruane; C Connolly, D Smith, D Cregg; D Murtagh, C Cox, C Lennon. Subs: R Dolan for Higgins (50), L Glennon for Flynn (52), A McDermott for Lennon (56), A Glennon for Cox (60), J Fitzpatrick for Walsh (67).

Ireland Women’s Sevens win first ever HSBC SVNS Series tournament

Ireland Womens' 7s win in Perth 2024 — The Ireland Women's Sevens team beat Australia 19-14 to win their first ever HSBC SVNS Series tournament in Perth this morning. Credit: World Rugby.

The Ireland Women’s Sevens team stunned hosts Australia 19-14 to win their first ever HSBC SVNS Series tournament in Perth this morning.

The Ireland Women become the first side from the Ireland Sevens Programme to win a World Series title, as Eve Higgins pounced for a decisive 13th-minute try in an epic 19-14 Cup final victory over Australia, the current table toppers.

Having lost to the Australians in their only previous Cup final appearance in Seville two years ago, Allan Temple-Jones’ Irish side gained revenge with stalwarts Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe and Lucy Mulhall both touching down during the first half.

Earlier Mulhall had starred with two tries during an impressive 31-7 semi-final defeat of Britain, despite Ireland previously having a poor semi-final record of just one win from seven at that stage of competition.

In Sunday’s final, captain Mulhall capitalised on Charlotte Caslick’s sin-binning in the final to squeeze in under the posts just before half-time.

Ireland lead 14-7 at half-time

Ireland’s 14-7 interval lead was erased when Teagan Levi evaded a diving tackle from Higgins for a breakaway ninth-minute effort, yet Mulhall, the HSBC player of the final, and her team-mates brilliantly held their nerve in a tense end-game.

They got back on the front foot, with Béibhinn Parsons accelerating through into the opposition 22, before replacement Aoibheann Reilly fed Higgins on the left wing and she stepped inside Isabella Nasser, shrugging off her attempted tackle to score.

Mulhall pushed her conversion narrowly wide, but it was not needed in the end as Australia knocked on from the restart. Reilly got the ball out of the scrum swiftly, allowing her skipper to kick the ball dead and crown a superb team performance.

“This is massive for Irish women’s rugby”

Ireland coach Alan Temple-Jones was almost speechless:

“Playing Australia is an unbelievable opportunity for the girls. We’re extremely chuffed … lost for words. We’ve had a good focus these last two weeks. We had a lot to improve on after Dubai and Cape Town … unreal.”

The Irish captain Amy Mulhall said the victory had been “a long time coming,” before adding, “It means a lot and we’ve been on a long journey. This is massive for Irish women’s rugby; we’ll be sure to celebrate.”

Ireland now move up to fourth position in the overall SVNS standings, with Australia still clear at the top.

Men win 3rd place play-off

As well as the Ireland Women adding to the silver (Seville) and bronze (Langford) they won during the 2021/’22 season, the previous match had seen the Ireland Men overcome Fiji 24-7 in brilliant fashion to win the 3rd place play-off.

After bowing out of the Cup competition to SVNS Series leaders Argentina, they took on the Fijians without injured captain Harry McNulty, and fell behind to a Josese Batirerega try.

The talismanic Terry Kennedy hit back with two touchdowns either side of half-time, and it was Ireland who produced the stronger finish with their bench becoming a crucial factor.

Lively replacement Gavin Mullin ran in a brace of tries in the 11th and 14th minutes to seal the result and delight the vocal Irish support in Western Australia’s capital city.

It is the fourth SVNS Series medal that the Ireland Men have won – they have picked up three since becoming a core team. Their first one was secured back in London in 2018 when they were bronze medallists as an invitational outfit.

Like their female counterparts, the most recent SVNS Series podium finishes for James Topping’s side were in 2022 when they earned silver in Toulouse, and did likewise in Dubai during the second leg of the 2022/’23 season.

The two Ireland squads have certainly hit the ground running at the start of 2024, giving themselves a timely boost as the countdown continues to the Women’s Olympic debut in Paris, where the Men will compete for the second time after their maiden qualification in Tokyo.

The 2024 SVNS Series continues in February and March with a double-header in Vancouver and Los Angeles.

GAA Results – Armagh Clinches Narrow Victory Over Louth

Armagh Clinches Narrow Victory Over Louth

Key Points in Allianz Football League Division Two Clash

Armagh secured a hard-fought 0-12 to 0-11 victory against Louth in a thrilling encounter at the BOX-IT Athletic Grounds. Here are the crucial moments from the match:

Louth’s Strong Start

Louth entered the halftime break with a narrow lead of 0-5 to 0-4, showcasing impressive attacks and solid defensive play. Craig Lennon’s incisive runs posed challenges for Armagh, while Tommy Durnin and captain Sam Mulroy made notable contributions.

Armagh’s Second-Half Resurgence

After a frustrating first half, Armagh rallied in the second period, particularly following the introduction of Jarly Og Burns. Stefan Campbell and Conor Turbitt led the charge upfront, while Armagh’s defense tightened, preventing Louth from extending their lead.

Back-and-Forth Battle

Both teams exchanged blows throughout the second half, with Armagh gradually gaining momentum. Despite Louth’s resilience, Armagh managed to edge ahead thanks to crucial points from Rory Grugan, Conor Turbitt, and Stefan Campbell.

Last-Minute Drama

As the match approached its conclusion, Louth fought valiantly to equalize, but Armagh’s defense held firm. In the dying moments, a missed opportunity for Louth from a 45′ proved decisive, allowing Armagh to cling onto their narrow lead and secure a vital victory.

Implications

This victory marks an important result for Armagh, who faced a tough challenge against Louth. With both teams showing resilience and determination, Armagh’s ability to prevail under pressure bodes well for their campaign ahead, while Louth’s performance indicates they’ll be a competitive force in the league.

GAA Results & Video Highlights – Monaghan Stuns Dublin with Late Winner

Monaghan Stuns Dublin with Late Winner

Ciaran McNulty’s Heroics Seal Shock Victory

In a thrilling encounter at Croke Park, Monaghan secured a surprise 3-9 to 1-14 victory over Dublin in their Allianz Football League Division 1 opener. The decisive moment came in injury-time when Ciaran McNulty stepped up to score the winning point, completing Monaghan’s remarkable comeback.

McNulty’s Winning Moment

The winning point was orchestrated after Micheál Brannigan’s crucial turnover of Brian Fenton led to Stephen Mooney releasing debutant McNulty, who calmly slotted home the decisive score in the fourth minute of added time. McNulty’s composed finish epitomized Monaghan’s resilience and determination throughout the match.

Monaghan’s Fightback

Despite enduring a nightmare start with Cormac Costello finding the net for Dublin early on, Monaghan rallied with goals from Jack McCarron (penalty) and Stephen O’Hanlon to level the scores approaching half-time. Although Dublin surged ahead in the second half, Monaghan refused to relent, ultimately mounting a strong finish to secure the shock win.

Dramatic Conclusion

McNulty’s late goal, coupled with Monaghan’s unwavering spirit, propelled them to a memorable victory over the reigning All-Ireland champions. The Farney men showcased their ability to thrive under pressure, leaving Dublin stunned and cementing their status as a force to be reckoned with in the league.

FULL-TIME HIGHLIGHTS: A dramatic finish sees @monaghangaa edge out Dublin by a point at Croke Park in the opening round of the Allianz Football League #GAANOW pic.twitter.com/1R4rjJ1jce

— The GAA (@officialgaa) January 27, 2024

GAA results & video highlights – Derry edges Kerry in thrilling finish

Shane McGuigan’s late heroics secure victory

Shane McGuigan’s clutch free in the fourth minute of injury-time proved pivotal as Derry secured a hard-fought 0-15 to 2-8 win against Kerry at Austin Stack Park. The victory marked Derry’s fifth consecutive win in 2024, following their triumph in the Dr McKenna Cup, and sets a strong foundation for their Division 1 campaign in the Allianz Football League.

Dominant first half for Derry

With the return of their Glen contingent, the Ulster champions dominated the opening 35 minutes, leading 0-8 to 0-4. Three McGuigan frees in a five-minute burst during the second quarter propelled them ahead.

Kerry fights back

Despite missing key players David and Paudie Clifford, Kerry mounted a comeback in the second half. Conor Geaney’s goal narrowed the gap, but Derry responded with points from Declan Cassidy and Niall Toney. However, Dylan Casey’s late goal leveled the score with seven minutes remaining.

GOAL! Dylan Casey levels it! @Kerry_Official #GAANOW pic.twitter.com/pFFJRUDWix

— The GAA (@officialgaa) January 27, 2024

McGuigan’s decisive moment

In the closing minutes, tension mounted as the match hung in the balance. A pressure free from McGuigan in injury-time sealed the victory for Derry, leaving the Munster champions disappointed.

Full-Time in Tralee where @Doiregaa secure a victory in Division 1 of the Allianz Football League #GAANOW pic.twitter.com/euUGHxCgMN

— The GAA (@officialgaa) January 27, 2024

Dublin v Monaghan – Preview, Predictions & Starting Teams

Dublin’s Allianz Football League Comeback: Clash Against Monaghan Under Croke Park Lights

As Dublin makes its highly-anticipated return to competitive football, the spotlight is on their top-tier Allianz Football League match against Monaghan this weekend at Croke Park. Join the action under the Saturday night lights at 7:30 pm (live on TG4).

Live Scores on Dublin v Monaghan on Irishscores.com

League Opener and History:

Dublin kicks off the league season against Monaghan, the team that relegated them from Division 1 in a nail-biting final day encounter in 2022. Seeking redemption, Dublin aims for its first league victory over Monaghan since 2017.

Pre-Season Challenges:

Dublin faced tough pre-season tests, overcoming Offaly and Wexford but falling short against Longford in the O’Byrne Cup Final. Emerging talents like Killian McGinnis and Luke Breathnach showcased their skills, complementing the experience of players like Brian Fenton and Cormac Costello.

Monaghan’s Pre-Season Form:

Vinny Corey’s Monaghan, coming off strong performances in the Dr McKenna Cup, showcased wins against Antrim and Fermanagh. Notable players like David Garland, Stephen Mooney, and Stephen O’Hanlon impressed, setting the stage for a competitive showdown.

Key Players and Challenges:

Dublin’s experience, led by Brian Fenton and Cormac Costello, contrasts with Monaghan’s reliable Conor McManus. However, Monaghan faces a significant setback with the departure of goalkeeper Rory Beggan to the NFL’s International Player Pathway Programme.

Anticipated Matchup:

As Dublin aims to kickstart its Allianz Football League campaign with a win, Monaghan, driven by Conor McManus and emerging talents, seeks to capitalize on Dublin’s historical vulnerabilities. Catch the action live on TG4 from 7:30 pm for an intense clash at Croke Park.

Starting Teams

DUBLIN v Monaghan: D O’Hanlon; E Murchan, S MacMahon, L Gannon; G McEneaney, C Murphy, J McCaffrey; B Fenton, S Bugler; R McGarry, L O’Dell, C Kilkenny; P Small, C O’Callaghan, C Costello.

Monaghan team not announced

Cheltenham Hopefuls Set for a Second Crack of the Whip at Naas

Horse Racing Ireland has confirmed that the Naas meeting which was abandoned due to dense fog on Sunday has been rescheduled for Friday, January 12.

The meeting will feature the six races that were not run on Sunday plus an additional four-year-old and upwards handicap hurdle over two miles.

The standout race on the card will be the Grade 1 Lawlor’s of Naas Novice Hurdle, which is a key trial for the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

Top Irish trainers Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott both entered fancied runners in the race and are will be eager to see the rescheduled meeting staged.

The Mullins-trained Ile Atlantique was well supported in the ante-post market for the Ballymore after his number one jockey Paul Townend was booked for the ride at Naas.

Online bookmakers rated the horse as a 16/1 shot earlier in the week, but slashed him into 10/1 after reports emerged that he been working well at home.

Elliott’s Firefox is priced at odds of 7/1 on most leading betting sites for the Ballymore, highlighting why racing authorities are keen to stage the Naas race.

The racecourse is offering free entry to punters and has confirmed it will reimburse anyone whose day was ended prematurely on Sunday.

The meeting was abandoned after just one race due to the foggy conditions – a race in which Mullins had 1/4 shot Brandy Love turned over by stablemate Night And Day.

The trainer will be eager for the rescheduled meeting to be staged as he continues to assemble his team for the Cheltenham Festival in March.

More potential hurdling stars from the Mullins stable could showcase their credentials over at Fairyhouse and Leopardstown over the next few weeks.

Owner Kenny Alexander’s big money purchase Jade De Grugy was touted as a potential Cheltenham contender following an impressive debut at Leopardstown.

Fairyhouse’s SBK Solerina Mares Novice Hurdle on January 27 will likely be next on the agenda ahead of a tilt at the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle in March.

Alexander’s racing manager Peter Molony. “She was very impressive. We are not sure what she beat, but what she did was very good and Paul was very impressed with her – we are quite excited about her.

“Every option will be open, but something like the Solerina at the end of the month might be something for her.

“If she progresses in the right direction, you would be dreaming of the Mares’ Novices’ at Cheltenham. It’s what we’re thinking of at the moment and hoping for.”

Another Alexander-owned hurdler is also on track to climb the ranks after making an eye-catching debut in a Grade 2juvenile hurdle at the recent Leopardstown Christmas Festival.

Kargese finished second behind Kala Conti on her debut for the Mullins stable and will now be aimed at a Grade 1 race at the Dublin Racing Festival in early February.

“We were happy with her – she just didn’t settle great on the day,” Molony added. “Considering that, she ran very well and the winner had had two runs already so again we’re quite excited about her.

“Hopefully all going well she goes to the Dublin Racing Festival and if things progress well, we will dream of a go at the Triumph Hurdle.”

While Molony is excited about what the future holds for Kargese, another talented hurdler from the Mullins yard could scupper their hopes of success at Leopardstown.

The Tony Bloom-owned Bunting is being aimed at the same race and could be tough to beat after recording an effortless victory at Limerick over the festive period.

The horse has been touted as Mullins’ main hope for the Triumph Hurdle and odds of 8/1 will disappear if he emerges victorious at Leopardstown.

Next Liverpool FC Manager: Odds and Contenders

Liverpool FC’s announcement of Jurgen Klopp’s departure at the end of the season has sent shockwaves through the football world. Klopp, who took charge of the club in 2015 and led them to the Premier League title in 2020, leaves behind a legacy of success at Anfield. As fans and pundits alike digest the news, attention naturally turns to the speculation surrounding his successor.

Betting odds have quickly become a focal point for enthusiasts eager to predict the next Liverpool manager. Here’s a glance at some of the leading contenders according to the odds:

1. **Pep Lijnders (3/1):** As Klopp’s current assistant, Lijnders is well-acquainted with the inner workings of Liverpool. His odds reflect the belief that continuity could be a key factor in maintaining the club’s recent success. Liverpool did announce managers Pepijn Lijnders and Peter Krawietz, as well as elite development coach Vitor Matos, will also vacate their positions at the end of the season. But Lijnders could obviously be promoted to head coach.

2. **Xabi Alonso (5/1):** The former Liverpool midfielder, known for his astute football mind, has been gaining coaching experience. He is currently the head coach of Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen. Alonso’s odds suggest he’s a serious contender for the managerial role, offering a potential link to the club’s glory days during his playing career.

3. **Steven Gerrard (11/2):** A Liverpool legend, Gerrard has been making waves as the manager of Rangers in Scotland and is now the manager of Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq. The prospect of him returning to Anfield as the boss is an enticing one, and the odds reflect the sentiment that he’s a strong candidate.

4. **Roberto De Zerbi (15/2):** The Italian manager, formally of Shakhtar Donetsk and how the head coach of Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion., brings a different flavor to the list of potential successors. De Zerbi’s odds indicate he’s considered a viable option, perhaps due to his tactical acumen and European experience.

5. **Julian Nagelsmann (9/1):** The young German manager has impressed in his previous roles, is currently the manager of the Germany national team. He has previously managed TSG Hoffenheim, RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, showcasing tactical innovation. Despite the longer odds, Nagelsmann’s inclusion in the list suggests Liverpool may be open to exploring external options.

The odds presented also include a field at 16/1 for potential candidates beyond the mentioned favorites. This highlights the uncertainty surrounding the appointment and leaves room for surprises in the managerial selection process.

The departure of a successful manager like Klopp undoubtedly marks a transitional period for Liverpool. The next manager will inherit a team with high expectations, and fans will be watching closely to see how the chosen candidate leads the club forward.

St. Brigid’s GAA Club Appoints Anthony Cunningham as Senior Team Manager

St. Brigid’s GAA club have announced the appointment of Anthony Cunningham as the new manager for their senior team.

Cunningham, previously at the helm of Roscommon’s football team and Galway’s hurling team, brings a wealth of managerial experience to the position. He will be supported by Eoin Mooney, James Martin, and Niall Kelly on the management team.

In 2006 Cunningham took charge of the St Brigid’s football team, guiding them to back-to-back championship titles.

St Brigids looked to have won the All Ireland club title last weekend, only for Glen from Derry to fight back and snatch victory late on.

The club extended its best wishes to Cunningham and his team as they take on the responsibilities for the upcoming season. With a proven track record, particularly in handling both football and hurling teams at a high level, Cunningham’s appointment is viewed as a strategic move to enhance the performance of St. Brigid’s senior team and get them another Roscommon, Connacht and All Ireland title.

Irish Sailors Shine with Olympic Selection on the Line

Irish Sailors Shine in ILCA7 World Championships with Paris 2024 Olympic Selection on the Line

Irish sailors Finn Lynch and Ewan McMahon kick off the ILCA7 World Championships in Adelaide, making a promising start to the six-day series. The competition holds significant weight as it serves as the Olympic selection contest for the men’s single-handed event at Paris 2024.

Finn Lynch’s Strong Opening:

National Yacht Club’s Finn Lynch, a Rio 2016 Olympian, secured two top ten results in the 153-strong field on the first day, showcasing his prowess in the challenging races. Lynch, who qualified Ireland for the Paris 2024 Olympics, faces stiff competition from Howth Yacht Club’s Ewan McMahon for the coveted single spot in the upcoming Olympics.

Ewan McMahon’s Resilience:

Despite a mixed performance on the opening day with a 24th place, Ewan McMahon bounced back impressively, claiming a ninth place in the second race. The Dublin rival, determined to secure his spot for Paris 2024, demonstrated his ability to be in front, aiming for more consistency in the races to come.

Coaching Insights:

Irish Sailing’s Laser coach, Vasilij Zbogar, praised Finn Lynch’s solid performance and emphasized the importance of achieving top ten results in the qualifying races. He acknowledged Ewan McMahon’s potential but highlighted the need for greater consistency in the upcoming races.

Crucial Early Points:

With 153 competitors divided into three qualifying fleets, both Lynch and McMahon understand the significance of maximizing points in the early stages. The goal is to secure a position in the Gold fleet lineup for the finals series starting on Monday.

Challenging Conditions and Strategy:

Zbogar noted the challenging and physically demanding nature of the long races on the first day. Sailors are exercising caution, minimizing risks in these crucial initial days, as the top three days determine qualification for the finals.

Path to the Podium:

Securing a place in the Gold fleet is pivotal for both Irish sailors. However, the ultimate goal is a top ten overall finish, which is essential for qualifying for the medal race final. The championship concludes on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, with podium outcomes at stake.