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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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Connacht v Munster Preview – Predicted Teams, Kick-Off Time, Key Stats | URC Round 14 at MacHale Park

JoeNa Connacht — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 14:15:42 +0000

Connacht v Munster Preview – Predicted Teams, Kick-Off Time, Injury Updates & More | URC Round 14, MacHale Park

Date: Saturday, 29 March 2025
Kick-Off: 14:30
Venue: Hastings Insurance MacHale Park, Castlebar
Referee: Andrew Brace (IRFU)

Historic Day in Castlebar as Connacht Host Munster at MacHale Park

MacHale Park will become the 56th venue to host a United Rugby Championship fixture as Connacht and Munster collide in Round 14. The first professional rugby match ever played at the iconic Mayo GAA ground is set to attract Connacht’s largest-ever home crowd.

Form Guide and URC Picture

Connacht have won two of their last three matches — beating Cardiff and Benetton — and came close to making it three in a row before falling 43–40 to Ospreys. They’re 12th on 31 points, with a top-eight finish unlikely, but a Challenge Cup campaign lies ahead with the prospect of three home games to reach the final.

Munster are sixth on 34 points but reeling from back-to-back losses to Edinburgh and Glasgow. They’ve won twice away from home this season (Ulster and Dragons) and haven’t won in Galway since 2021.

Key Stats

MacHale Park is the 56th URC venue.
Connacht have won 2 of their last 7 matches — both at home.
They’ve lost 7 straight against Irish provinces.
Munster’s only away wins this season came at Ulster and Dragons.
The last 7 meetings have all been won by the home team on the day.
Munster last won in Galway in January 2021.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

Connacht are expected to welcome back their Irish internationals — Bundee Aki, Mack Hansen, Cian Prendergast, and Finlay Bealham — while in-form winger Finn Tracey retains his place. Ben Murphy is ruled out through injury.

Connacht Predicted XV:

1. Denis Buckley
2. Dave Heffernan
3. Finlay Bealham
4. Darragh Murray
5. Joe Joyce
6. Josh Murphy
7. Shamus Hurley-Langton
8. Cian Prendergast
9. Caolin Blade
10. Josh Ioane
11. Finn Tracey
12. Bundee Aki
13. Cathal Forde
14. Mack Hansen
15. Piers O’Conor

Munster Team News:

Munster could welcome back several key players to their matchday 23:

Tadhg Beirne
Jack Crowley
Conor Murray
Calvin Nash
Peter O’Mahony
Craig Casey
Jean Kleyn
Jack O’Donoghue
Thaakir Abrahams

Oli Jager is also due to return to training this week after missing the defeat to Glasgow. Meanwhile, the fitness of Niall Scannell and Billy Burns (both shoulder) will be assessed closer to the weekend.

Munster Injury List:

Shane Daly – hamstring
Diarmuid Kilgallen – thigh
Mike Haley – ankle
Dave Kilcoyne – thigh
Liam Coombes – chest
Edwin Edogbo – Achilles
Roman Salanoa – knee

What’s at Stake

Connacht are eyeing a strong finish in the URC and a major run in the Challenge Cup. With a record crowd and returning stars, they’ll be fired up for a statement win.

Munster need a response. A third straight loss could push them out of the top eight with pressure mounting. A full-strength squad could make all the difference.

Prediction

Connacht 26–20 Munster
Home advantage, form momentum, and returning Ireland stars could see Connacht edge what’s set to be a thrilling encounter.

#CONvMUN #URC #IrishRugby
vs | |

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Connacht Unchanged in the Backs as Wilkins Names Strong Squad for Ospreys Test

JoeNa Connacht — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 12:26:32 +0000

Connacht Unchanged in the Backs as Wilkins Names Strong Squad for Ospreys Test

Connacht have named their matchday 23 for Saturday’s BKT United Rugby Championship clash away to the Ospreys (kick-off 5.15pm), with just three changes from the side that overcame Benetton three weeks ago.

There is continuity across the backline, as head coach Pete Wilkins sticks with the same seven backs for the second consecutive league fixture — a rare show of consistency in selection that reflects growing cohesion in the attacking unit.

Josh Ioane and Caolin Blade continue as the half-back pairing, with Cathal Forde and Hugh Gavin retained in midfield. Shayne Bolton and Finn Treacy remain on the wings, while Piers O’Conor lines out at full-back once again.

Up front, Denis Buckley returns to the starting XV and is joined in the front row by Dave Heffernan and Jack Aungier. Captain Joe Joyce comes back into the engine room alongside Darragh Murray, while Josh Murphy joins Shamus Hurley-Langton and Paul Boyle in a physical and mobile back row.

There’s also a clear intent to match Ospreys physically, with a 6:2 forwards-to-backs split named on the bench. Sean Jansen, typically a back row option, takes the number 23 jersey, highlighting the tactical focus for this crucial away fixture.

Away Form Must Improve

Connacht’s only away win in the league since April 2024 came against the Scarlets back in early October. Since then, results on the road have been inconsistent — a trend that must change if the province are to stay in touch with the playoff places.

With a massive fixture against Cardiff to follow next week — set to be played at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park in Castlebar — Wilkins and his staff will be eager to carry momentum into the home stretch of the season.

A defeat in Swansea could force selection changes for the Connacht leg of that double-header, while a victory would put Connacht slightly back in the mix for a top-eight finish.

Team named for tomorrow’s BKT URC clash with Ospreys in Swansea

3️⃣ changes from the Benetton win
Backline unchanged
6:2 bench split

See the squad in full https://t.co/3SKRxf2L5K pic.twitter.com/7rTehPHt61

— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) March 21, 2025

Connacht Matchday 23 vs Ospreys (Saturday, 5.15pm):

15. Piers O’Conor
14. Finn Treacy
13. Hugh Gavin
12. Cathal Forde
11. Shayne Bolton
10. Josh Ioane
9. Caolin Blade

1. Denis Buckley
2. Dave Heffernan
3. Jack Aungier
4. Joe Joyce (Captain)
5. Darragh Murray
6. Josh Murphy
7. Shamus Hurley-Langton
8. Paul Boyle

Replacements:
16. Dylan Tierney-Martin
17. Peter Dooley
18. Sam Illo
19. Niall Murray
20. Cian Prendergast
21. Conor Oliver
22. Tom Farrell
23. Sean Jansen

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Aviva Stadium to Host Majority of Leinster Home Games in 2025/26 – Season Tickets from €115

JoeNa Connacht — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:10:38 +0000

Aviva Stadium to Host Majority of Leinster Home Games in 2025/26 – Season Tickets from €115

Leinster Rugby has today announced Season Ticket details for the 2025/26 campaign, confirming that the Aviva Stadium will remain the primary venue for home fixtures in the BKT United Rugby Championship and the Investec Champions Cup. Croke Park will also be available to host additional high-capacity matches when required.

As part of a broader communication to Season Ticket Holders, the following key updates were confirmed:

The RDS Arena will reopen at the beginning of the 2026/27 season with an increased capacity of over 20,000.
For the 2025/26 season, the Aviva Stadium will host the majority of home games.
Ticket prices will increase by an average of 3.9% across most categories—the first rise since the 2018/19 season.
Junior Season Ticket prices remain frozen at €115, with lower-cost entry points for adults and families also retained.

Why the Aviva Stadium Remains the Home Base for Now

Matthew Dowling, Leinster Rugby’s Chief Commercial Officer, explained the decision:

“While the RDS Arena will be available from August 2025, we’d only be able to operate at a reduced capacity—not enough to accommodate our full Season Ticket base. We’ve grown from 12,248 Season Ticket Holders at the RDS to over 15,000 at the Aviva. The aim is to include as many supporters as possible at every game.”

He continued:

“We don’t want to disenfranchise any of our Season Ticket Holders—whether they’ve been with us for 12 years or just joined—so we’ve decided to wait until the new-look RDS Arena is fully complete before moving back.”

Ticket Pricing and Supporter Engagement

Dowling said pricing decisions were made following supporter feedback through the annual Leinster Listener survey and discussions with the Official Leinster Supporters Club (OLSC).

“We’ve extended the renewal window, retained entry-level pricing for adults and juniors, and kept the family-of-five and student ticket options that were well received. Unfortunately, operational costs have increased, and after holding prices steady for over six years, we’ve had to implement a modest average increase of under 4%—but junior prices remain untouched.”

He reaffirmed that Leinster Rugby is a not-for-profit organisation:

“All revenue is reinvested—whether it’s supporting over 39,000 registered players across our 12 counties or funding the pathway from grassroots to the professional game.”

The Road Back to the RDS Arena

Looking ahead, Dowling outlined plans for the transition back to the redeveloped RDS Arena in 2026/27:

“The new stadium will have capacity for over 20,000 and promises a brilliant match day experience. Our priority will be the supporters who were with us before the move to Aviva. We’ve engaged a world-renowned consultancy to manage this return and ensure fairness for newer fans too.”

He also expressed gratitude to key partners for their ongoing support:

“We’re thankful to the RDS, IRFU, FAI, Aviva Stadium, and the GAA for their help in managing our home fixtures this season and next.”

Season Ticket Benefits

In addition to access to all home URC and EPCR fixtures, Season Tickets will include:

Admission to all home Leinster Rugby Women’s games.
Access to Leinster Rugby ‘A’ matches in the new interprovincial series (excluding play-offs).

Key Dates for Season Ticket Holders

Renewal window: Friday, 14 March – Friday, 4 April 2025
Seat relocation option: Tuesday, 8 April 2025
Waiting list sales: Thursday, 17 April 2025
General public sale: Wednesday, 23 April 2025

A Strong Season On and Off the Pitch

Dowling concluded with a reflection on what has been a standout season so far:

“The Aviva and Croke Park have been brilliant hosts. We’ve averaged over 37,000 supporters at home games. Tania Rosser’s squad kicked off the season with an interpro title and a record crowd at Energia Park. Leo Cullen’s team has continued that momentum and remains unbeaten across both the URC and the Investec Champions Cup.”

“With a return to the RDS Arena on the horizon, this is a hugely exciting time for Leinster Rugby—and we can’t wait to share that journey with our supporters.”

The Season Ticket renewal window opens on Friday, 14 March 2025, with general sale starting Wednesday, 23 April 2025.

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Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly)

JoeNa Connacht — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 20:06:52 +0000

Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly)

Last Updated: March 5, 2025

The 2025/26 season is on the horizon, and while player movement across Ireland’s four provinces has been minimal, a few key signings have been confirmed. Will we see more transfers in the coming weeks? Here’s a weekly updated list of confirmed signings for each province.

Munster – Leading the Transfer Market

Munster have been the most active province so far, confirming four signings:

Michael Milne (Prop, 25) – from Leinster (IRL)
Lee Barron (Hooker, 24) – from Leinster (IRL)
JJ Hanrahan (Fly-half, 32) – from Connacht (IRL)
Dan Kelly (Centre, 24) – from Leicester Tigers (ENG)

With two front-row additions, a playmaker, and a promising centre in Dan Kelly, Munster are strengthening across key areas.

Ulster – A Single But Significant Addition

Ulster have made just one signing so far:

Juarno Augustus (Back row, 27) – from Northampton Saints (ENG)

The powerful South African No. 8 will bring much-needed physicality to Ulster’s back row.

Leinster – No Confirmed Signings Yet

Leinster have yet to announce any additions. Given their incredible academy pipeline, they may not feel the need to recruit externally. Will that change?

Connacht – Yet to Enter the Market

Like Leinster, Connacht have yet to confirm any signings. With JJ Hanrahan leaving for Munster, will they look for a replacement?

Should We Be Concerned About the Lack of Transfers?

Compared to previous seasons, Irish rugby’s transfer activity has been unusually quiet. Munster and Ulster have made moves, but Leinster and Connacht remain inactive.

Are budgets tighter than before?
Is there confidence in homegrown talent?
Will we see late-window signings?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Latest Irish Rugby Transfers (Updated Weekly)

Province	Player	Position	Age	From
Munster	Michael Milne	Prop	25	Leinster
Munster	Lee Barron	Hooker	24	Leinster
Munster	JJ Hanrahan	Fly-half	32	Connacht
Munster	Dan Kelly	Centre	24	Leicester
Ulster	Juarno Augustus	Back row	27	Northampton
Leinster
Connacht

This table will be updated weekly as new signings are announced.

Have Your Say!

Are you surprised by the lack of movement so far? Which province needs to strengthen most? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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Mack Hansen Commits Future to Ireland and Connacht with New Contract

JoeNa Connacht — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 10:25:46 +0000

Mack Hansen Commits Future to Ireland and Connacht with New Contract

The IRFU has confirmed that Mack Hansen has signed a new two-year deal, keeping him with Connacht and Ireland until at least the end of the 2026/27 season.

Connacht Rugby and @IrishRugby are delighted to confirm Mack Hansen has signed a two-year contract extension ⁰ #OneConnacht pic.twitter.com/LvmQ6aYgUI

— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) March 3, 2025

Since making his Test debut against Wales in February 2022, Hansen has been a standout performer in Ireland’s back three. The 25-year-old has earned 27 caps and crossed the whitewash 12 times, cementing his status as one of the most exciting attacking threats in the game.

Hansen’s meteoric rise saw him nominated for the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year in his first international season. His decision to remain in Ireland is another boost for Andy Farrell’s squad as they build towards Rugby World Cup 2027.

Having joined Connacht in 2021, Hansen has made 38 appearances for the province, quickly becoming a fan favourite in Galway and beyond.

Speaking about his contract extension, Hansen said:

“Since moving to Ireland, I’ve loved every minute, and I’m delighted to sign this new contract. Playing for Connacht and Ireland means a huge amount to me, and I feel like I’ve developed massively thanks to the coaching and structures here. There’s a lot to play for this season, and my focus is on finishing strongly with both club and country. I’d like to thank the IRFU for their faith in me, and I’m really excited for the future.”

IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys also welcomed the news:

“Mack has been a key player for Ireland and Connacht in recent years, and securing his future is a huge boost for Irish rugby. He’s a proven performer who thrives on the big stage and is a firm favourite with fans. We believe there’s still more to come from him, and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to progress.”

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Predicted URC Quarter-Finals: Who Makes the Top Eight?

JoeNa Connacht — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:55:46 +0000

With so many heavyweight clashes on the horizon, the URC playoffs promise to be one of the most exciting in years. Buckle up for a thrilling end to the season!

Predicted URC Quarter-Finals: Who Makes the Top Eight?

With the United Rugby Championship (URC) heading into the crucial final rounds, the playoff picture is beginning to take shape. Based on the latest standings and predicted results, we’ve forecasted the final league table and the quarter-final matchups. Here’s how the standings could look at the end of the regular season.

Predicted Final URC Table

Rank	Team	Played	Current Points	Predicted Additional Points	Final Points
1	Leinster	12	57	21	78
2	Sharks	11	34	30	64
3	Bulls	12	41	22	63
4	Glasgow Warriors	12	44	17	61
5	Stormers	12	28	28	56
6	Lions	11	28	26	54
7	Edinburgh	12	30	24	54
8	Munster	12	33	19	52
9	Connacht	12	29	15	44
10	Ospreys	12	28	15	43
11	Scarlets	12	28	14	42
12	Benetton	12	28	16	40
13	Ulster	12	27	13	40
14	Cardiff	12	31	9	40
15	Zebre	12	25	5	30
16	Dragons	12	8	2	10

Predicted URC Quarter-Finals

(1) Leinster vs (8) Munster

An all-Irish clash in the quarter-finals would be a blockbuster tie. Leinster, currently unbeaten, look set to finish as the top seed. Munster, sneaking into eighth, will face a huge challenge in Dublin. The 2023 champions will need a massive performance to upset their fierce rivals.

(2) Sharks vs (7) Edinburgh

The Sharks’ surge in form is expected to secure them the second seed, and they will welcome Edinburgh to South Africa. The Scottish side will need to be at their absolute best to take down a Sharks team filled with Springbok talent.

(3) Bulls vs (6) Lions

A fierce South African derby, this fixture would be an intense battle between two physical sides. The Bulls’ set-piece dominance could be a crucial factor, while the Lions will look to play an expansive game to keep their playoff hopes alive.

(4) Glasgow Warriors vs (5) Stormers

This clash between the Scottish and South African powerhouses promises fireworks. Glasgow’s home advantage will be key, but the Stormers are a dangerous side in the knockout stages. Expect a fast-paced, high-quality encounter.

Who Misses Out?

Connacht, currently eighth, are projected to drop out of the playoff places due to strong finishes from Edinburgh and the South African teams. Ospreys, Scarlets, and Benetton will also fall just short despite some promising performances. Ulster’s struggles continue, and they too are expected to miss out.

Final Thoughts

If these predictions hold, the URC quarter-finals will feature a thrilling mix of Irish, Scottish, and South African teams. Leinster will be the clear favourites, but with three South African teams in the top eight, the title could be heading back to the Southern Hemisphere. Glasgow and Munster will look to prove they can challenge for silverware, while Edinburgh will aim to cause an upset.

With so many heavyweight clashes on the horizon, the URC playoffs promise to be one of the most exciting in years. Buckle up for a thrilling end to the season!

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IRELAND WIN SIX NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP

Breandán Ó hUallacháin — Sat, 16 Mar 2024 18:51:46 +0000

Ireland won the Guinness Six Nations Championship with a hard-fought 17-6 victory over Scotland at the Aviva Stadium on Lansdowne Road this evening.

Ireland extended their record to 19th successive home success this afternoon, a victory that is a 40th win in the last 42 games at the Aviva Stadium, dating back to 2016.

It was the home side’s 10^th successive win against their Celtic neighbours, and their 71 in all since the two sides first met in Belfast in 1877.

Opening half lacked energy from Ireland

An opening half that was characterised by handling errors, Ireland look a pale version of the energetic side that began this Six Nations tournament a few weeks ago.

Finn Russell opened the scoring in the 143^rd test match between Ireland and Scotland with a penalty in the 8^th minute of the game. Russell was reliable as usual from the kicking tee and dissected the posts for the game’s opening score.

Sheehan fifth try of the tournament

Dan Sheehan scored his 5th try of this season’s Guinness Six Nations when being the grateful recipient from a line-out throw in. The Ireland hooker, crashed over for his 10th career test try to put Ireland into the lead for the first time in the game. A successful Jack Crowley conversion put the home side into a 7-3 lead with just 14 minutes on the clock.

𝐃𝐀𝐍 𝐒𝐇𝐄𝐄𝐇𝐀𝐍!

Steals a Scottish lineout and there’s no stopping him from there!#IREvSCO | #GuinnessSixNations pic.twitter.com/4Ki6rSM0iK

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 16, 2024

Joe McCarthy conceded a penalty minutes later, his second of the game, and gave Russell an opportunity to bridge the gap, which he duly did with his second successful kick for the posts in the test match.

Jack Crowley had a penalty attempt from inside the Scottish half to extend the Irish lead with 5 minutes to play in the opening half, but the kicker’s effort went left and wide of the uprights.

Half-time: Ireland 7 Scotland 6.

With Ireland making an energetic start to the second half, Scotland were penalised on 42 minutes for being off their feet directly in front of the posts. Crowley had an easy task of slotting over to push Andy Farrell’s side into a 10-6 lead.

Officials deny Furlong a try

Tadhg Furlong looked to have added to the Ireland score-line approaching the 50 minute mark. The prop drove for the line, and though he initially looked to have touched down successfully for the score, the referee Matthew Carley stated the on-field decision was ‘no try’ as he went to his TMO for clarification. Despite the fact that Scotland’s Finn Russell seemed to be in an offside position, therefore preventing Furlong from scoring, the English referee maintained his original decision, much to the frustration of the home crowd.

Porter try secures Irish victory

Ireland went of a short penalty tap and succeed in crossing the try-scoring line, with Scotland having a man in the sin-bin. Despite incessant Irish pressure prior to that, they failed to achieve another score which might settle the result of this match. Andrew Porter scored his sixth international try to settle Irish nerves. The front-row burst through the Scottish defensive effort and with a successful conversion attempt from Jack Crowley, Ireland took a 17-6 advantage into the final 13 minutes of the test match.

𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐘!

Ireland finally breach that brilliant Scottish defence through Andrew Porter!#IREvSCO | #GuinnessSixNations pic.twitter.com/ggSbILafcJ

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 16, 2024

Scottish centre Huw Jones gave his side some late hope when racing in for a five-pointer with three minutes remaining on the clock. Russell added the extras to leave just four points between the sides, with an extra man on the pitch following the earlier sin-binning of Harry Byrne.

𝗜𝗧 𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗚𝗢𝗧 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚!

A piece of brilliance from Huw Jones gives Scotland a late try and move within four points!#IREvSCO | #GuinnessSixNations pic.twitter.com/RPdKB5dTB3

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 16, 2024

Full-time: Ireland 17 Scotland 13

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