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Leinster Rugby v Munster Rugby – Preview, Teams & Prediction

JoeNa Connacht — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:04:34 +0000

Leinster Rugby v Munster Rugby – Preview, Teams & Prediction

Venue: Croke Park, Dublin Date: Saturday, 18 October 2025 Kick-off: 5:15pm Live on: TG4 & Premier Sports 1

Match Preview

Leinster Rugby return to Croke Park for a blockbuster Round 4 clash in the BKT United Rugby Championship, welcoming rivals Munster Rugby in front of what’s expected to be a near-capacity crowd. Leo Cullen’s side began their campaign with a convincing 31–5 win over the Sharks at the Aviva Stadium last weekend and now look to extend their perfect record at Croke Park, where they’ve won all five previous fixtures across all competitions. Jack Conan captains the side on his first appearance of the season, as four British & Irish Lions return to the starting XV. RG Snyman partners James Ryan in the second row, while Jamison Gibson-Park makes his seasonal bow alongside Sam Prendergast. Tommy O’Brien earns his 50th Leinster cap and James Lowe continues on the wing. Robbie Henshaw and Garry Ringrose reunite in midfield for the first time in 2025/26. Munster, meanwhile, have enjoyed a superb start to the season with three wins from three and 14 of a possible 15 points. Graham Rowntree’s men make 10 changes from last week’s win over Edinburgh, but the return of Tadhg Beirne as captain is a massive boost. Dan Kelly, Shane Daly, and Jack Crowley all start in a reshuffled backline, while Edwin Edogbo returns to the second row after a long injury absence.

Form & Head-to-Head

Leinster have won all five matches ever played at Croke Park.
They have not lost to an Irish province since Ulster’s victory in May 2024.
Munster are unbeaten in their last six URC games since losing to Cardiff in April.
Leinster have won their last four meetings with Munster since the 2024 URC semi-final at Aviva Stadium.
Overall record: Leinster 111 wins – Munster 50 – Draws 11 (172 matches).

Leinster Rugby Team News

Leinster Rugby (caps in brackets): 15. Jamie Osborne (66) 14. Tommy O’Brien (49) 13. Garry Ringrose (139) 12. Robbie Henshaw (107) 11. James Lowe (93) 10. Sam Prendergast (36) 9. Jamison Gibson-Park (157) 1. Paddy McCarthy (9) 2. Rónan Kelleher (80) 3. Tadhg Furlong (155) 4. RG Snyman (22) 5. James Ryan (97) 6. Alex Soroka (19) 7. Josh van der Flier (159) 8. Jack Conan (166) CAPTAIN Replacements: 16. Dan Sheehan (73), 17. Andrew Porter (140), 18. Thomas Clarkson (61), 19. Brian Deeny (39), 20. Max Deegan (139), 21. Scott Penny (90), 22. Fintan Gunne (19), 23. Ciarán Frawley (106)

Munster Rugby Team News

Munster Rugby: 15. Shane Daly 14. Andrew Smith 13. Tom Farrell 12. Dan Kelly 11. Thaakir Abrahams 10. Jack Crowley 9. Ethan Coughlan 1. Michael Milne 2. Diarmuid Barron 3. John Ryan 4. Edwin Edogbo 5. Fineen Wycherley 6. Tadhg Beirne (C) 7. Jack O’Donoghue 8. Brian Gleeson Replacements: 16. Lee Barron, 17. Jeremy Loughman, 18. Ronan Foxe, 19. Jean Kleyn, 20. Gavin Coombes, 21. Paddy Patterson, 22. JJ Hanrahan, 23. Alex Nankivell Unavailable: Oli Jager (HIA), Mike Haley (HIA), Calvin Nash (shoulder), Tom Ahern (HIA), Craig Casey (hamstring), Niall Scannell (hand), Alex Kendellen (ankle), Conor Bartley (hamstring).

Prediction & Analysis

The inclusion of six Lions in Leinster’s matchday squad underlines their intent to dominate the early URC rounds. RG Snyman’s adds intrigue, but Munster’s heavy rotation and inexperienced bench could be exposed at Croke Park’s wide spaces. Munster’s pack will need a huge shift from Beirne and Edogbo to counter Furlong, Ryan and van der Flier’s physicality. Jack Crowley’s kicking game will be vital, but Leinster’s depth and home record make them strong favourites. Prediction: Leinster by 12 points. Handicap: Leinster -14 (unchanged since opening line).

Match Officials

Referee: Gianluca Gnecchi (FIR)
Assistant Referees: Peter Martin (IRFU), Jonny Erskine (IRFU)
TMO: Stefano Penne (FIR)

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Cardiff Rugby v Connacht Rugby: URC Round 3 Preview & Stats

JoeNa Connacht — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:41:13 +0000

Cardiff Rugby v Connacht Rugby: URC Round 3 Preview

Venue: Cardiff Arms Park, Cardiff
Kick-off: 19:45 (IRE/UK) | 20:45 (ITA/SA)
Referee: Gianluca Gnecchi (FIR, 43rd league game)
Assistants: Ben Breakspear (WRU), Lucas Yendle (WRU)
TMO: Stefano Penne (FIR)
Live on: S4C, TG4, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Cardiff Enter New Era After Coaching Change

Cardiff’s narrow 23–20 defeat to Munster at Thomond Park last weekend showed plenty of fight, but it also came during a week of major transition. Head coach Matt Sherratt has departed to join Steve Tandy’s Wales coaching ticket as full-time attack coach after serving as caretaker boss during the Six Nations and summer tour of Japan.

Cardiff are now led on an interim basis by assistants Richie Rees and Richard Hodges, who have been part of the club’s structure for several years. Sherratt’s influence, though brief, gave Cardiff a clearer attacking identity and renewed discipline across the squad.

The Arms Park remains one of the most challenging venues in the URC. Cardiff’s only home defeat in their last four league games came against the Sharks (22–42, January 2025), and they have since won three straight at home — their best sequence since 2022.

However, the Welsh side’s record against Irish opposition remains poor: just two wins in their last 12 meetings, both at home — versus Ulster (October 2024) and Munster (April 2025). They’ll also remember that Connacht beat them three times last season, including twice in the URC and once in the Challenge Cup last 16.

Connacht Eager to Regain Rhythm After Postponement

Connacht’s Round 2 clash with Scarlets was postponed due to Storm Amy, after the visitors’ flight was diverted to Manchester. The cancellation was confirmed late on Friday night, meaning players only found out on Saturday morning.

“A lot of players only found out when they woke up. They were mentally and physically ready. It’s frustrating — especially after such a strong start against Benetton.”
— Stuart Lancaster, Connacht Head Coach

That opening-round victory over Benetton showcased the new structure Lancaster has brought — tighter defence, sharper decision-making, and renewed confidence. Connacht have won their last two URC matches but have not managed three consecutive victories since March 2024, nor back-to-back away wins since 2023.

Their only defeat to a Welsh team since 2021 came in a 40–43 shootout against Ospreys last March. Against Cardiff, Connacht are unbeaten since September 2021 and have wins in their last two visits to the Arms Park.

Team & Injury News

Mack Hansen, Bundee Aki, and Finlay Bealham are all back training but unlikely to feature this week. Josh Ioane and Byron Ralston have returned to full fitness and could be included.

Niall Murray (ankle) – out several weeks after surgery.
Oisín Dowling (knee) – sidelined until December.
Temi Lasisi (knee) – continues rehabilitation.

Cian Prendergast is expected to captain again, with Jack Carty at fly-half and Cathal Forde in midfield.

Handicap (as of Wednesday)

Cardiff –4 v Connacht +4

Cardiff start as narrow favourites at home, but Connacht’s strong record against Welsh opposition could see late support for the visitors as team news emerges on Friday.

Key Stats & Trends

Cardiff’s only win in their last four URC games came against the Lions (33–20).
Cardiff have won their last three home matches, their best run since 2022.
Cardiff’s only home defeat in their last four came to the Sharks (22–42).
Cardiff have won just two of their last 12 games against Irish provinces.
Connacht are unbeaten against Cardiff since 2021, with two wins in Cardiff.
Connacht have won their last two URC games but not three in a row since March 2024.

Prediction

Cardiff’s recent form at the Arms Park makes them a serious proposition, but Connacht’s organisation and defensive edge under Lancaster may once again give them the upper hand. Expect another tight contest decided in the final ten minutes.

Verdict: Connacht by 2 — Jack Carty’s control could be the difference.

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Connacht Rugby Starting Team as Scarlets Visit Dexcom Stadium

JoeNa Connacht — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:26:37 +0000

Connacht Name Strong XV as Scarlets Visit Dexcom Stadium – URC Round 2 Preview

Saturday, 4 October – Kick-off 1.45pm, live on Premier Sports 2 & URC.tv

Connacht Rugby head coach Stuart Lancaster has made nine changes to his side for Saturday’s BKT United Rugby Championship Round 2 clash against Scarlets at Dexcom Stadium. Irish internationals Jack Aungier, Darragh Murray and Hugh Gavin return to the squad, while Finn Treacy is set for his first appearance since May.

The betting markets reacted quickly to the announcement, with Connacht moving from -8 to -9 favourites on the handicap. After back-to-back league victories, confidence in Lancaster’s men is rising ahead of Saturday’s early kick-off in Galway.

Team News

Cian Prendergast captains the side on his 88th appearance for the province, lining out in the back row alongside Paul Boyle and Sean Jansen. Murray partners Joe Joyce in the engine room, while the front row is reshaped with long-serving loosehead Denis Buckley joined by Dave Heffernan and Jack Aungier.

Behind the scrum, Jack Carty continues at out-half, partnered by scrum-half Ben Murphy. The back three remain unchanged with Sean Naughton at full-back and Chay Mullins and Shayne Bolton on the wings. In midfield, Cathal Forde is paired with David Hawkshaw.

Connacht Rugby Matchday Squad vs Scarlets

15. Sean Naughton (2)
14. Chay Mullins (9)
13. David Hawkshaw (44)
12. Cathal Forde (52)
11. Shayne Bolton (27)
10. Jack Carty (221)
9. Ben Murphy (17)
1. Denis Buckley (265)
2. Dave Heffernan (220)
3. Jack Aungier (88)
4. Darragh Murray (39)
5. Joe Joyce (38)
6. Cian Prendergast (88) (C)
7. Paul Boyle (117)
8. Sean Jansen (27)

Replacements: Eoin de Buitléar, Jordan Duggan, Sam Illo, David O’Connor, Sean O’Brien, Matthew Devine, Hugh Gavin, Finn Treacy

Lancaster’s View

“I was really pleased with the result last weekend against a really strong Benetton side. There were a lot of positives to take from it, but still plenty to improve on. The energy from the fans was brilliant and we’ll need that same energy on Saturday this time with the earlier start.”

“I know the Scarlets coaching team well and I have a lot of respect for them. Dwayne will have them really well organised and up for the fight and Jarrod is a great defence coach. They more than deserved their play-off chance last season. We’ve made a few changes for the game, it’s exciting to see how the new faces will go.”

Form Guide & Key Stats

Connacht have won their last two URC fixtures but have not won three in succession since March 2024.
Connacht have won three of their last four games at Dexcom Stadium.
Their only defeat to a Welsh region since October 2021 was against Ospreys in March.
Scarlets are on a run of three straight defeats and risk a fourth, something not seen since May 2024.
Scarlets’ only win over an Irish province since March 2021 was against Leinster last April.
Connacht have won the last four meetings between the sides, dating back to 2021.

Betting Update

The handicap line has edged out to Connacht -9 after the team news, with the Westerners boosted by the return of key internationals. Scarlets sit at +9 underdogs, while the total points line remains unchanged at time of writing. Given the Scarlets’ struggles against Irish sides, the market is leaning towards another Connacht win in Galway.

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Stuart Lancaster’s Connacht Revolution: URC Stats Reveal Big Fixes for 2025/26

JoeNa Connacht — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 15:56:36 +0000

Stuart Lancaster’s Connacht Revolution? Brutal Stats Show Why Change Happened – and Where They Can Strike in 2025/26

Connacht endured a rollercoaster 2024/25 United Rugby Championship campaign, finishing 13th overall with 6 wins, 12 losses, nine try bonus points, and six losing bonus points. The numbers tell the story of a team that had the platform to compete but too often left results behind — something new head coach Stuart Lancaster will be desperate to fix.

Defensive Steel

Connacht’s defence was one of the best in the URC. They finished with an impressive 88.8% tackle success rate (6th in the league) and a superb 89.7% red-zone tackle success rate. Their maul defence topped the competition at 81%, while they conceded just 61 tries across 18 games – solid numbers for a team outside the top eight.

Lineout Kings

If there was one consistent weapon, it was the set-piece. Connacht’s lineout was the best in the league at 91.4% success, with 23 steals (3rd overall). It provided a strong platform and was the cornerstone of their attack.

Where It All Went Wrong

Points per 22 entry: Just 2.55 – the lowest in the league.
Tries per 22 entry: Only 0.42, 14th in the URC.
Scrum success: 83.3% (15th), losing 17 scrums and conceding penalties.
Goal kicking: 67.6% accuracy (12th), costing valuable points.
Kick retention: Dead last at 3.2%, meaning restarts rarely yielded results.

Attacking Threat Still There

Connacht weren’t short on creativity. They ranked 2nd for defenders beaten (475) and made 164 line breaks (6th in URC). When they clicked, they were electric — but too often the killer touch was missing.

Lancaster’s Challenge

Lancaster inherits a team with a rock-solid lineout, top-class maul defence, and huge attacking potential. His task will be clear:

Tighten the scrum.
Improve accuracy in the red zone.
Find a reliable goal kicker.

If those areas are addressed, Connacht could convert narrow defeats into wins and make a serious run for the top eight and a playoff spot in 2025/26.

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Connacht Rugby 2025/26 Season Preview: Lancaster Aiming for Top Eight

JoeNa Connacht — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:16:01 +0000

Connacht Rugby 2025/26 Season Preview: Lancaster Aiming for Top Eight

If Connacht supporters are searching for reasons to believe after last season’s annus horribilis – six wins, 13th place, and a Challenge Cup quarter-final defeat at home to 14-man Racing 92 – they don’t have to look far.

Lancaster Takes Charge

Stuart Lancaster’s arrival offers a fresh start. The former England boss rebuilt a broken culture before the 2015 World Cup debacle and then spent six hugely influential years at Leinster, transforming them into a URC powerhouse. His Racing 92 stint was brief and forgettable, but Connacht fans will hope that, with a stronger support network in Galway, Lancaster can finally deliver as a head coach.

Squad Changes & New Blood

The squad has seen modest change. Sam Gilbert is the sole professional signing and likely won’t feature until December. Academy promotions for Sean Naughton, Harry West and last year’s standout Finn Tracey freshen up the ranks. The departures of Conor Oliver (Ealing Trailfinders), JJ Hanrahan (Munster), Piers O’Conor (Edinburgh) and Santiago Cordero leave gaps, but Bundee Aki and Mack Hansen remain the key men if fit.

Coaching Ticket & Facilities

Lancaster will work alongside Rob Seib, who will look to sharpen Connacht’s attack this season, as well as province stalwarts John Muldoon and Cully Tucker. This mix of international experience and local knowledge could be vital in making Lancaster’s system stick.

The €40 million redevelopment of Dexcom Stadium has transformed Connacht’s environment. Lancaster has called the new indoor centre “as good as I’ve ever seen,” while the final piece – the North Stand – is due to open in January for the URC clash with Leinster.

Turning the Sportsground into a Fortress

Connacht’s last home URC win came back on March 1st against a depleted Benetton. To reach the URC top eight this season, they’ll need at least ten victories and a strong home record. Lancaster has promised a visible increase in intensity and accuracy in the first five rounds.

Predicted Starting XV vs Benetton

1. Peter Dooley
2. Dylan Tierney-Martin or Dave Heffernan
3. Jack Aungier
4. Darragh Murray
5. Joe Joyce
6. Cian Prendergast (C)
7. Shamus Hurley-Langton
8. Sean Jansen
9. Ben Murphy
10. Josh Ioane
11. Shayne Bolton
12. Hugh Gavin
13. Cathal Forde
14. Finn Tracey
15. Seán Naughton or Shane Jennings

This youthful selection pairs Gavin and Forde in midfield and gives Tracey an early shot on the wing. Ioane’s control at 10 and Jansen’s ball-carrying will be crucial to Connacht’s fortunes.

Targets for 2025/26

A top-eight finish and a home Challenge Cup semi-final would represent a strong first year for Lancaster. Anything less would feel like underachievement given the investment in facilities and the talent at his disposal.

With a balanced coaching ticket, new energy from academy graduates, and a statement stadium redevelopment, Connacht have the tools to make 2025/26 a turning point – if they can marry training intensity with matchday consistency.

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Munster Name 38-Man Squad for Pre-Season Clash with Bath at Virgin Media Park

JoeNa Connacht — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:41:47 +0000

Munster Name 38-Man Squad for Pre-Season Clash with Bath at Virgin Media Park

Munster Rugby have announced a 38-man squad for Friday’s highly anticipated pre-season clash against English Premiership champions Bath at Virgin Media Park.

Kick-off is 7pm, with tickets available now via munsterrugby.ie. Fans unable to attend can catch all the action live on Access Munster, with exclusive live streaming.

Five Ireland internationals — Tom Ahern, Craig Casey, Gavin Coombes, Alex Kendellen and Michael Milne — are set to make their first appearances of the new campaign. Ahern, Kendellen, and Milne will wear the red jersey for the first time since making their Ireland debuts this summer.

This fixture will be an extended 90-minute contest, with breaks after 30 and 60 minutes instead of a traditional half-time.

Two separate Munster line-ups have been named to split the game-time evenly, with a further eight players listed as replacements.

Supporters will also get their first look at new signings JJ Hanrahan, Dan Kelly, and Conor Ryan in their first home appearance since joining during the summer.

Young talents Conor Bartley and Academy flanker Michael Foy are in line for their senior Munster debuts, while Ben O’Connor, Fionn Gibbons, Gordon Wood, and Ronan Foxe will make their first appearances of the 2025/26 campaign.

Six Munster Rugby Academy players are included: Michael Foy, Ben O’Connor, Gordon Wood, Ronan Foxe, Max Clein, and Seán Edogbo, highlighting the province’s commitment to developing homegrown talent.

Veteran hooker Niall Scannell will once again captain Munster, as he did against Gloucester, while Craig Casey will lead the side for the first time when he takes the field.

The squad will also showcase Munster’s brand-new adidas home jersey, giving fans a first look ahead of the United Rugby Championship campaign.

Munster Teams for Bath Clash

Team 1:
Shane Daly; Andrew Smith, Seán O’Brien, Dan Kelly, Diarmuid Kilgallen; JJ Hanrahan, Ethan Coughlan; Jeremy Loughman, Niall Scannell (C), Oli Jager; Evan O’Connell, Tom Ahern; Ruadhán Quinn, Alex Kendellen, Gavin Coombes.

Team 2:
Mike Haley; Ben O’Connor, Fionn Gibbons, Gordon Wood, Thaakir Abrahams; Tony Butler, Craig Casey (C); Michael Milne, Lee Barron, John Ryan; Conor Ryan, Fineen Wycherley; Jack O’Donoghue, John Hodnett, Brian Gleeson.

Replacements:
Max Clein, Mark Donnelly, Conor Bartley, Ronan Foxe, Michael Foy, Seán Edogbo, Paddy Patterson, Shay McCarthy.

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Leinster Rugby Academy: Josh Neill to join in early 2026

JoeNa Connacht — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 16:23:27 +0000

Academy News

Josh Neill to join Leinster Rugby Academy in early 2026

Irish-qualified back-row added to the Year One intake; arrival scheduled after he completes his school year in South Africa.

Academy 2025/26
Back-row Forward
Irish-qualified

Announcement

Leinster Rugby Academy Manager, Simon Broughton, has confirmed that Josh Neill has been added to the Year One Academy intake and will link up with Leinster Rugby in the early months of 2026. Neill, an Irish-qualified back-row, currently attends Rondebosch Boys’ High School in Cape Town and was recently named in the South Africa U-18 squad for their summer series against France, England and Ireland.

Neill plays his club rugby with Western Province. His older brother, Jordan, is already based in Ireland and currently plays cricket with the Northern Knights. Jordan has represented Ireland U-19s and made his senior Ireland debut in a One Day International against the West Indies earlier this summer.

Back-row prospect Josh Neill will arrive in early 2026 to join Leinster’s Academy group.

Leinster Rugby Academy 2025/26

Year One

Player	AIL Club
Tadhg Brophy	Naas RFC
Jack Deegan	Blackrock College RFC
Connor Fahy	Clontarf FC
Páidí Farrell	Old Wesley RFC
Lee Fitzpatrick	Blackrock College RGC
Todd Lawlor	Lansdowne FC
Ciarán Mangan	Blackrock College RFC
Alex Mullan	Blackrock College RFC
Josh Neill	TBC
Mahon Ronan	Old Wesley RFC

Year Two

Player	AIL Club
Oliver Coffey	Blackrock College RFC
Billy Corrigan	Old Wesley RFC
Caspar Gabriel	Terenure College RFC
Hugo McLaughlin	Lansdowne FC
Ruben Moloney	UCD RFC
Alan Spicer	Clontarf FC
Andrew Sparrow	St Mary’s College RFC
Stephen Smyth	Old Wesley RFC

Year Three

Player	AIL Club
Henry McErlean	Terenure College RFC
Liam Molony	Lansdowne FC
Conor O’Tighearnaigh	UCD RFC

All clubs listed are Energia All-Ireland League (AIL) affiliates where applicable.

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Final Thoughts on Connacht’s 2024/25 Season – and Looking Ahead

JoeNa Connacht — Tue, 20 May 2025 07:11:47 +0000

Final Thoughts on Connacht’s 2024/25 Season – and Looking Ahead

There’s a lot changing at Connacht — and not all of it is on the pitch. The brand-new, world-class stand at the Sportsground is a genuine game-changer, a sign that the province is thinking bigger and building for the long term. There’s also a fresh coaching ticket incoming, a new General Manager of Performance behind the scenes, and a wave of exciting young talent rising through the ranks.

On the field, though, 2024/25 was a tough watch at times.

Losing all six interpros — including a gut-wrenching home defeat to Ulster — was hard to swallow, and the season never quite found consistency. Realistically, our only win over a full-strength side came in the Challenge Cup last 16 against Cardiff. The league form was patchy at best, and we struggled to put points on the board against stronger sides.

Connacht averaged 23 points per game, placing around 11th in the URC for scoring. Defensively, we leaked an average of 25 — likely the third worst in the competition. That combination left us on the wrong side of too many scorelines.

Worryingly, the Sportsground was no fortress. Just four home wins from nine (against Sharks, Cardiff, Benetton and Dragons), while the only away victories came against Zebre and Scarlets. Six wins from 18 in the URC doesn’t meet the standard this squad should be aiming for.

But not everything was bleak.

The Challenge Cup run was a real highlight. Five wins and a thrilling, high-scoring battle with Racing at home showed what this team is capable of. It wasn’t just the results — it was the way Connacht played in that competition: ambitious, energised, and entertaining.

There were also individual standouts. Ben Murphy was a revelation. Sean Jansen and Paul Boyle brought consistent power. Peter Dooley anchored the scrum. Shayne Bolton keeps going from strength to strength, while Finn Tracey made a strong impression. And then there’s SHL — a real leader, and arguably the standout player of the season. Coming back from injury inside five weeks was a testament to his character.

Looking ahead, recruitment has been low-key — with only Sam Gilbert arriving so far — and finances remain tight. That’s likely why Rob Seib, originally set for a backs coach role, is now the favourite to take the head coach position too. There were whispers of interest from Dan McFarland and Stuart Lancaster, but nothing materialised. If Seib does step up, a top-class defence coach beside him will be vital.

The bones of a strong season are there. With a new stand, new structures, new energy — and a core of talented, committed players — there’s reason to believe. A top-eight URC finish and a Challenge Cup semi-final run are realistic targets if things click.

There’s work to do, but the future isn’t bleak — it’s just waiting to be built. Roll on 2025/26.

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Munster v Ulster URC Preview: Five Changes for Hosts as Munster Look Strong Bet at -7

JoeNa Connacht — Thu, 08 May 2025 11:56:35 +0000

Munster v Ulster URC Preview: Five Changes for Hosts as Munster Look Strong Bet at -7

Friday night lights return to Thomond Park as Munster welcome Ulster in a mouth-watering BKT United Rugby Championship Round 17 clash (7.35pm, live on RTÉ and Premier Sports). With five changes to their starting line-up and home advantage, Graham Rowntree’s men look in prime position to cover the -7 handicap, which is shaping up as one of the weekend’s best rugby bets.

Munster Team News: Five Big Names Return

Munster head coach Graham Rowntree has brought Stephen Archer, Jean Kleyn, Peter O’Mahony, John Hodnett and Diarmuid Kilgallen back into the starting XV after their gritty win over Cardiff. Thaakir Abrahams moves to full-back, forming a dangerous back three alongside Calvin Nash and Kilgallen. This is one of the strongest Munster teams to be selected all season.

The midfield remains settled with Alex Nankivell and Tom Farrell continuing their partnership, while Jack Crowley and Craig Casey form a sharp half-back pairing. Up front, Michael Milne earns his second start alongside experienced campaigners Niall Scannell and Archer.

Kleyn and Tadhg Beirne, who captains the side, anchor the second row, with a robust back-row trio of O’Mahony, Hodnett and Coombes providing firepower at the breakdown.

Ulster Team News: Henderson Returns but Key Questions Remain

Richie Murphy welcomes back Iain Henderson from injury to captain the side and pair up with Cormac Izuchukwu in the second row. Rob Baloucoune returns on the wing, while Michael Lowry starts at full-back after concussion protocols. However, Ulster remain inconsistent on the road and have won just one of their last four away games in the URC.

In the backline, Nathan Doak and Jack Murphy continue at 9 and 10, while the experienced Stuart McCloskey teams up with Jude Postlethwaite in midfield. With Jacob Stockdale and Baloucoune out wide, Ulster’s back three can threaten but could struggle for clean ball against Munster’s aggressive pack.

Betting Tips: Munster -7 Looks a Very Strong Play

Thomond Park is a fortress and Munster have covered the spread in 5 of their last 6 home URC matches. With several key starters returning and momentum building ahead of the playoffs, Munster -7 is a bet with excellent value. Ulster’s form is patchy and they’ve failed to win at Thomond in their last four visits.

Verdict: Back Munster -7 on the handicap at around 10/11 (1.91). Expect a fired-up home performance and a potential double-digit margin.

Match Details

Fixture: Munster v Ulster
Competition: BKT United Rugby Championship – Round 17
Venue: Thomond Park, Limerick
Date: Friday, 9 May
Kick-off: 7.35pm
Live: RTÉ & Premier Sports
Referee: Adam Jones (WRU)

Munster Team: 15. Thaakir Abrahams 14. Calvin Nash 13. Tom Farrell 12. Alex Nankivell 11. Diarmuid Kilgallen 10. Jack Crowley 9. Craig Casey 1. Michael Milne 2. Niall Scannell 3. Stephen Archer 4. Jean Kleyn 5. Tadhg Beirne (Captain) 6. Peter O’Mahony 7. John Hodnett 8. Gavin Coombes Replacements: 16. Lee Barron 17. Josh Wycherley 18. John Ryan 19. Fineen Wycherley 20. Tom Ahern 21. Alex Kendellen 22. Conor Murray 23. Seán O’Brien Ulster Team: 15. Michael Lowry 14. Rob Baloucoune 13. Jude Postlethwaite 12. Stuart McCloskey 11. Jacob Stockdale 10. Jack Murphy 9. Nathan Doak 1. Andrew Warwick 2. Rob Herring 3. Scott Wilson 4. Iain Henderson (Captain) 5. Cormac Izuchukwu 6. Matty Rea 7. Nick Timoney 8. James McNabney Replacements: 16. Tom Stewart 17. Callum Reid 18. Tom O’Toole 19. Alan O’Connor 20. David McCann 21. Dave Shanahan 22. Stewart Moore 23. Werner Kok

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Ireland’s Biggest Stadiums: A Complete Guide to Our Sporting Cathedrals

JoeNa Connacht — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 10:13:11 +0000

Ireland’s Biggest Stadiums: A Complete Guide to Our Sporting Cathedrals

From Croke Park to Thomond Park — here’s a full list of Ireland’s largest stadiums and the stories behind them.

By SportsNewsIRELAND.com

Introduction

Ireland’s sporting landscape is built on passion, tradition, and unforgettable days in the stands. Across the country, from Dublin to Kerry, Cork to Belfast, you’ll find some of Europe’s most atmospheric and historic stadiums. Whether it’s the All-Ireland Final in Croke Park, a Munster rugby night in Thomond Park, or League of Ireland action in Tallaght, these venues are the heartbeat of Irish sport.

Here’s a complete guide to Ireland’s biggest stadiums — across GAA, rugby, soccer, and cricket — and what makes them special.

Ireland’s Biggest Stadiums

1. Croke Park, Dublin – 82,300 (GAA)

The largest stadium in Ireland and one of the biggest in Europe. Home to the All-Ireland football and hurling finals, it’s the beating heart of Gaelic Games.

2. Aviva Stadium, Dublin – 51,700 (Soccer & Rugby)

A world-class venue that hosts Ireland’s international soccer and rugby matches.

3. Semple Stadium, Thurles – 45,690 (Hurling)

The spiritual home of hurling in Tipperary and beyond.

4. Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Cork – 45,000 (GAA)

Recently redeveloped on the banks of the Lee, it’s a key GAA venue in Munster.

5. Gaelic Grounds, Limerick – 44,023 (GAA)

Limerick’s fortress and a hurling stronghold.

Other Major Stadiums Across Ireland

Stadium	Capacity	Location	Main Sport(s)
Fitzgerald Stadium	38,000	Killarney	GAA
St Tiernach’s Park	29,000	Clones	GAA
MacHale Park	28,000	Castlebar	GAA
Nowlan Park	27,000	Kilkenny	Hurling
Pearse Stadium	26,197	Galway	GAA
Thomond Park	25,600	Limerick	Rugby
Breffni Park	25,030	Cavan	GAA
Windsor Park	18,614	Belfast	Soccer
RDS Arena	18,500	Dublin	Rugby
Páirc Esler	20,000	Newry	GAA

Ireland’s Best Rugby & Soccer Stadiums

Thomond Park, Limerick – 25,600
RDS Arena, Dublin – 18,500
Ravenhill, Belfast – 18,196
Tallaght Stadium, Dublin – 10,500
Turner’s Cross, Cork – 7,385
Dalymount Park, Dublin – 4,500
Tolka Park, Dublin – 5,400
Windsor Park, Belfast – 18,614

GAA County Grounds That Matter

O’Moore Park, Laois – 22,000
Cusack Park, Ennis – 20,100
Dr Hyde Park, Roscommon – 18,890
Markievicz Park, Sligo – 18,558
Athletic Grounds, Armagh – 18,500
Brewster Park, Fermanagh – 18,000
Healy Park, Omagh – 17,636
MacCumhaill Park, Donegal – 17,500

The Hidden Gems

Malahide Cricket Club – 11,500
Stormont, Belfast – 6,000
Morton Stadium, Santry – 8,800
The Showgrounds, Sligo – 3,873
Corrigan Park, Antrim – 3,700

Final Word

Whether it’s a packed Croke Park on All-Ireland Final day, Munster under the lights in Thomond, or the tight terraces of Dalymount Park, Ireland’s stadiums are woven into the fabric of our national identity. These venues are more than just bricks and mortar — they’re the stages where dreams are made, hearts are broken, and legends are born.

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