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Weld hoping to break Breeders' Cup duck

Written By Unknown on Jumat, 31 Oktober 2014 | 23.06

One of the surprising statistics to have emerged in the build-up to Mustajeeb's run in the $2million Breeders' Cup Mile tomorrow (2340 Irish time) is that Dermot Weld has yet to saddle a winner at what is one of the biggest meetings in the world.

Weld has broken down barriers for European trainers in international events, and is most renowned in America for Go And Go winning the Belmont Stakes in 1990.

Along with Alain de Royer-Dupre, he is also the only European to have won the Melbourne Cup, which he claimed twice with Vintage Crop (1993) and Media Puzzle (2002).

Mustajeeb arrives at Santa Anita with strong form claims, having won the Jersey Stakes at Royal Ascot and having just been touched off by Bow Creek on Irish Champions Weekend after a mid-season break.

Weld said: "He has been a very consistent horse all year.
"The ground wasn't right for him when he was beaten by Kingman at the Curragh in the Irish 2,000 Guineas and he was beaten by a very good horse at Leopardstown last time.

"Toronado will obviously be hard to beat and the French filly (Veda) of the Aga Khan's is smart, but we have a good draw and a good jockey (Pat Smullen). He ticks all the boxes and we are all set."

Smullen expects his mount to have improved for his last run, telling At The Races: "I'm really looking forward to him.

"He seems to have travelled over well, I sat on him the other morning and everything seems to be going to plan, so hopefully he'll run a big race.

"The boss gave him a good, long break after Ascot and that (Boomerang Mile) was always going to be his next race.

"We got a little bit further back than ideal and we'd be hoping he'll improve from that run to leave him spot-on for this race."

Richard Hannon's Toronado won the Queen Anne at Royal Ascot before going down to three-year-olds Kingman and Charm Spirit on his next two outings.

"Touch-wood, things have worked out well for us, especially with the draw, because if you are drawn right on the inside you can get into trouble early on," said Hannon.

"But when you are in the middle like we are, you can hit the gate and get a position.

"While the turn is a bit of an unknown for him I think he has got the speed to adapt and he is an intelligent horse."

Harry Herbert, racing manager for owners Al Shaqab Racing, said: "He seems in good form. He looks fantastic and seems to be hanging on to his coat. We're very happy with him.

"On ratings, he has a favourite's chance, but, as we've seen many times in the past, horses may have the highest ratings but have never seen this track and the rhythm of the race is completely different to what they've been used to at home.

"You've got to hope he'll adapt to that and if he does and he runs to his rating, then you'd like to think he has a real good chance.

"He deserves to be here, that's the main thing. He's a fantastic racehorse.

"He's got a hell of a record and a real good record this year. His last performance in France was very good, with the winner going on to win the QEII, before that he was second to Kingman and he won the Queen Anne before that.

"He's the right piece of kit to be bringing here and because Olympic Glory is under the same ownership, he hasn't had a hard season."

Freddy Head has an unbelievable Breeders' Cup record as a jockey and trainer thanks to wonder-mares Miesque and Goldikova, and brings Anodin to the contest.

Head said: "He comes to the Breeders' Cup in the best condition of any horse I have been associated with that has run at this meeting.

"Of course, he is not as good as Goldikova, but he may not have to be.

"He will be suited by the flat track, as well as its sharp nature and the two turns.

"I think European racing was not ideal for him, because most of the tracks there are galloping in nature, and this (Santa Anita) puts the emphasis on speed."

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Quigley wins with first-round knockout in US

Rising star Jason Quigley extended his professional record to 3-0 with an impressive first-round knockout of super middleweight opponent Greg McCoy in Plymouth, Massachusetts, last night.

The Donegal man dominated his American opponent (3-4-1) from the opening bell before putting him down with a left hook-right cross 2:39 into the round.

The 23-year-old, who is signed to Oscar De La Hoya's Golden Boy Promotions, has now won all his fights inside the distance following TKO wins in the summer over Howard Reece and Fernando Najera.

Quigley won European gold and world silver medals as an amateur before turning pro in April this year.

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O'Gara tips Keatley as back-up for Sexton

Former Munster and Ireland outhalf Ronan O'Gara has backed Ian Keatley to understudy Johnny Sexton as outhalf in Ireland's November internationals, saying Keatley's game time at number ten puts him ahead of Leinster's Ian Madigan.

With Sexton the incumbent, attention turns to who will be Ireland's second-choice outhalf. Madigan has played most of his rugby at 12 this season, combining effectively with Jimmy Gopperth but not getting hold of the number 10 jersey.

Keatley has put in a number of impressive performances for Munster despite ongoing questions over his kicking, and produced a match-winning, last-minute drop-goal against Sale in the Champions Cup.

Speaking to RTÉ Sport about who will step in were Sexton to be injured or unavailable, O'Gara identified as a concern the fact that Madigan was not getting game time as an outhalf.

"From Ian Keatley's point of view, he's the fella that's playing there ... it's very difficult to go [from] playing Pro12 level at 12 to playing number 10 in a Test match. It's just too big a step up. It's very, very difficult.

"It's not up one level, I think the [move from ] Pro12 to playing the Boks is up three levels, especially if you're the quarterback. The one person doing that [playing outhalf] is Ian Keatley."

"It's very difficult to go [from] playing Pro12 level at 12 to playing number 10 in a Test match. It's just too big a step up" - Ronan O'Gara

O'Gara stressed that Madigan's ability was not in question but said he would need to gain experience and confidence that could come only from playing as outhalf to see out a game such as the one against South Africa.

"There's no doubt Madigan has the ability, but from his point of view, how does he gain confidence?" he asked.

"He gains confidence and experience playing for Leinster week in week out, and putting those performances in the bank. And [then] when the crisis and the pressure comes on he can ... lean on that when hopefully it's a one-score game after 60 minutes against the Boks. That's what gives him belief to close out the game.

"But if you're going, playing from 12 at Leinster into the hot-seat, I think it's asking an awful lot of a really, really talented and crucial player."

Looking at the wider picture for Ireland, O'Gara was optimistic that Joe Schmidt and his side would not be too adversely affected by a remarkable run of injuries. He said that there was still fierce competition for places and that the loss of players such as Leinster duo Cian Healy and Sean O'Brien opened the door for other players to shine.

"It is and it isn't," O'Gara said, when it was suggested that Ireland's extensive injury list was a real challenge for the Ireland's coaching staff. "Obviously the key injuries would be Healy and O'Brien, and Rob Kearney; where is [Gordon D'Arcy], what is his injury status? I wouldn't be too sure.

"I think everywhere else you're nearly looking at first-choice players [still being available], because I think there is still great choice in the backs, and obviously Cian Healy would be missed from any team, Sean O'Brien will be missed, but other than that I think it's a great opportunity.

"This is when the provincial that step up to international level excel. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised about the standard Ireland will achieve over the next few weeks."

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Pro12 teams: Olding starts at fullback for Ulster

Ulster head coach, Neil Doak, has made seven changes and two positional switches to the team that lost to Toulon for tomorrow evening's Guinness Pro12 game against Newport Gwent Dragons at Kingspan Stadium (kick off 19:35).

Stuart Olding has been released from Ireland camp and starts the game at fullback, while Louis Ludik switches from fullback to the right wing with Darren Cave selected at outside centre and Stuart McCloskey picked at inside centre.

Peter Nelson is named on the left wing and plays his first game of the season for Ulster, while Paddy Jackson and Paul Marshall continue in the half-backs.

Up front, Callum Black starts at loosehead, Rob Herring is named at hooker and Wiehahn Herbst continues at tighthead prop. The second row is unchanged with Lewis Stevenson selected alongside Franco van der Merwe. Clive Ross is named at blindside, while Sean Reidy is selected at openside and makes his competitive debut for the province.

Roger Wilson, who will play his 163rd game for his province, captains the side from Number 8.

Forwards John Andrew, Andrew Warwick, Declan Fitzpatrick, Neil McComb and Robbie Diack are selected on the bench as are backs Michael Heaney, Ian Humphreys and Ricky Andrew.

Ulster: 15 Stuart Olding; 14 Louis Ludik, 13 Darren Cave, 12 Stuart McCloskey, 11 Peter Nelson; 10 Paddy Jackson, 9 Paul Marshall; 1 Callum Black, 2 Rob Herring, 3 Wiehahn Herbst, 4 Lewis Stevenson, 5 Franco van der Merwe, 6 Clive Ross, 7 Sean Reidy, 8 Roger Wilson (captain).

Replacements: 16 J Andrew, 17 Andrew Warwick, 18 Declan Fitzpatrick, 19 Neil McComb, 20 Robbie Diack, 21 Michael Heaney, 22 Ian Humphreys, 23 Ricky Andrew.

With a number of international representatives unavailable for selection, Anthony Foley has rung the changes for Munster's clash away to Cardiff Blues on Saturday, with the head coach naming Donncha O'Callaghan as captain.

In total, 11 personnel changes are made from last weekend's starting line-up that defeated Saracens 14-3 in Pool 1 of the European Champions Cup.

In the front row John Ryan returns from illness to start at loosehead alongside hooker Kevin O'Byrne, while BJ Botha retains his starting position at tighthead.

Munster's most capped player O'Callaghan returns to the matchday squad and will captain the side from the second row alongside Billy Holland who is promoted from the bench for this weekend's clash.

In the back row CJ Stander switches from 8 to 6, and following two strong performances for Munster A in the B&I Cup in which he scored two tries, with Paddy Butler starting at 7. Robin Copeland is also promoted to a starting position as he faces his old Cardiff team-mates from the back of the scrum at 8.

In the half-backs, Duncan Williams and JJ Hanrahan are paired from the start for the first time this season at scrum-half and out-half respectively, while impressive appearances in all Munster A games to date this season sees year two academy player Rory Scannell on course to make his first senior competitive appearance, doing so alongside Andrew Smith in the midfield.

Having trained with Ireland at Carton House earlier this week, Andrew Conway remains on the right wing with Gerhard van den Heever coming in on the opposite flank, while Johne Murphy also returns to the starting line-up, completing the back three at full back.

Following his inclusion in the Ireland squad for the upcoming November Series, Stephen Archer provides front row cover on the bench and year two academy second row Sean McCarthy is another in line to make his competitive debut after being named amongst the replacements.

Meanwhile, prop Alan Cotter and back-row Barry O'Mahony could also feature in the Guinness PRO12 for the first time this season.

Munster: 15 Johne Murphy, 14 Andrew Conway, 13 Andrew Smith, 12 Rory Scannell, 11 Gerhard van den Heever; 10 JJ Hanrahan, 9 Duncan Williams; 1 John Ryan, 2 Kevin O'Byrne, 3 BJ Botha; 4 Donncha O'Callaghan (captain), 5 Billy Holland; 6 CJ Stander, 7 Paddy Butler, 8 Robin Copeland.

Replacements: 16 Eusebio Guinazu, 17 Alan Cotter, 18 Stephen Archer, 19 Sean McCarthy, 20 Barry O'Mahony, 21 Cathal Sheridan, 22 Johnny Holland, 23 Ronan O'Mahony.

Matt O'Connor has made eight changes to the side who faced Castres for Leinster's Pro12 clash against Edinburgh tomorrow (kick-off 7.35pm), with Rugby League import Ben Te'o making his debut.

Kevin McLaughlin returns after a knee injury to captain the side form the back row. McLaughlin last featured in early September in the round two win over Scarlets in the RDS.

Michael Bent once again starts in the front row, but swaps sides to loose head while Tadhg Furlong is selected at tight head.

Richardt Strauss starts at hooker as he closes is on 100 caps for Leinster. Tom Denton makes his first start of the year in the second row with Kane Douglas retained beside him.

McLaughlin skippers the side from blindside flanker, with Dominic Ryan once again selected at openside. Jack Conan starts from No 8 for his fifth appearance of the season.

There are three changes in the backs but both wingers, Darragh Fanning on the right and Luke Fitzgerald on the left, are once again selected as is full back Zane Kirchner.

However it's a new centre partnership with Noel Reid selected at inside-centre and Te'o selected outside him. Te'o makes his senior debutm after playing all 80 minutes last weekend for the Leinster A team in the British & Irish Cup against Carmarthen Quins.

The final change is in the half backs with Luke McGrath selected at scrum half with Jimmy Gopperth outside him at 10.

The game has come too soon for Jordi Murphy, Dave Kearney and Fergus McFadden despite the fact that they all trained this week.

Shane Jennings is a little bit further away from fitness but is also aiming for a return against Treviso later in November.

Edinburgh have made 10 changes, with 20 of their squad unavailable through injury.

Leinster team: Zane Kirchner, Darragh Fanning, Ben Te'o, Noel Reid, Luke Fitzgerald, Jimmy Gopperth, Luke McGrath; Michael Bent, Richardt Strauss, Tadhg Furlong, Tom Denton, Kane Douglas, Kevin McLaughlin, Dominic Ryan, Jack Conan.

Connacht coach Pat Lam has made nine switches to his starting lineup ahead of the tomorrow night's game away to Ospreys (kick-off 7.35pm).

New recruit Bundee Aki will make his first appearance in a Connacht jersey at Liberty Stadium, starting in a midfield partnership with Craig Ronaldson.

Ireland squad trio Kieran Marmion, Rodney Ah You and Darragh Leader have all been temporarily released from the international training camp to play a part in tomorrow's league game with Marmion and Ah You included in the starting XV.

Wing Matt Healy and outhalf Jack Carty are both recalled to the backline while 22-year-old Shane Layden is given the nod at full-back for his second start of the season.

Celebrating his 24th birthday today, lock Quinn Roux returns to the pack, while the Galway-born duo of John Muldoon (captain) and Eoin McKeon are named in the back row.

The most notable inclusion on the bench is Mayo-born prop Jamie Dever who is in line to make his senior Connacht debut.

The 21-year-old re-joined the Connacht Academy this season following a year-long sabbatical that allowed him to recover from a lengthy foot injury.

JP Cooney is also likely to make his first appearance of the season against the league leaders.

Connacht team: Shane Layden, Niyi Adeolokun, Bundee Aki, Craig Ronaldson, Matt Healy, Jack Carty, Kieran Marmion; Denis Buckley, Jason Harris-Wright, Rodney Ah You, Mick Kearney, Quinn Roux, John Muldoon, Eoin McKeon, George Naoupu.

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Leinster and Connacht under Friday night lights

By Tadhg Peavoy

Leinster v Edinburgh, the RDS, Friday, 1935

One name has dominated all build-up to this match and will continue to do so during and after. That lad is Ben Te'o. The Australian rugby league second row has been brought in by Matt O'Connor to fill the void left by Brian O'Dricoll in the No 13 shirt, and this is the very first glimpse Leinster fans will get of the centre playing in blue.

Te'o comes to rugby union having played second row in rugby league with the South Sydney Rabbitohs. On the surface, he would appear to offer a more direct and physical option than O'Driscoll did in his latter years, however, no doubt he, and the Leinster management, will be keen to show he has more to his game than bulldozing opponents. Time will tell.

Back-to-back Champions Cup victories for Leinster have raised hopes that this squad is beginning to gel with the effect that is needed to compete for silverware come May 2015, and the goal this Friday is to keep that momentum alive with a victory over Edinburgh, and improve a level of back play and interchange that has still been not quite mesmeric this October, even though Leinster saw off Wasps and Castres efficiently enough after poor first halves.

There are eight changes to O'Connor's team, but they look strong regardless. Ian Madigan is not in the XV - as he is away on international duty with Ireland - and his place-kicking and creativity need to be compensated for by the backline starters.

Jimmy Gopperth will take over duties from the tee, while Te'o, Luke Fitzgerald and Zane Kirchner will be expected to create the magic in midfield.

Madigan has been superb this season, and is beginning to develop into the player he has long been expected to become. But Leinster need to avoid over-reliance on him, and tonight is the chance to work on patterns without him, and build other strengths within the back division.

Richardt Strauss, captain Kevin McLaughlin and Kane Douglas supply the ballast in the pack, and will lead a relatively inexperienced eight.

The worry for Leinster would be that Edinburgh will come to Dublin looking to beat-up the likes of Tadhg Furlong, Tom Denton and Jack Conan, and from there cut off ball-supply to Leinster's backline and starve them of possession.

However, with 18 players out injured, and two away on Scotland duty, whether they have the squad to do so is the question.

Leinster too have the same squad issues, but on the surface at least, their strength in depth would appear to give them the upper hand going into this encounter.

David Denton at No 8 will be crucial to Edinburgh's attempts to pull off an upset. His direct lines of running and offloading create space for other to run into and breach defences, and Edinburgh will need plenty of that at the RDS.

But, possession could well be the problem, with a pack shorn of maturity. WP Nel at No 3 will be the pillar for all set-piece work. But with the pack filled with youngsters such as Allan Dell, Ben Toolis and Magnus Bradbury, one would think that dominating Leinster away is a stretch for the Scottish side. Without that platform, it's hard to see past a home win.

Verdict: Leinster to win by 14

Ospreys v Connacht, Liberty Stadium, Friday, 1935

Connacht's 33-13 Challenge Cup humbling at the hands of Exeter Chiefs was not exactly what the doctor ordered, and can't have done much for confidence ahead of the trip to one of the Pro12's most stylish sides.

But, Pat Lam's rotation policy was largely behind such a poor return, as he targeted the bread and butter of the Pro12 and put Friday's visit of Ospreys in the micro focus.

Ospreys form is purring, with six from six in the Pro12 thus far and a swagger that has not been seen for many a year at Liberty Stadium. However, they too come into battle on the back of a drubbing, having been gunned down 34-6 by Northampton.

With that in mind, and given that Ospreys are missing star men Alun-Wyn Jones, Dan Biggar and Rhys Webb, this is a perfect time to face the league leaders.

Lam has made nine changes to his team and they are far stronger on the team sheet then they were last weekend. Like Leinster, the Westerners have a big, bruising new centre on display in the form of Bundee Aki, and how he performs this weekend, and this season, could prove crucial to how the season goes for the Galway-based team.

The exciting duo of Kieran Marmion and Jack Carty start at half-back. And there is a real flash of youth at full-back where 22-year-old Shane Layden starts, and in the front row where 21-year-old Jamie Denver makes his debut.

John Muldoon, Eoin McKeon and George Naopu form a very strong back row.

A few years back Connacht wouldn't have been given a snowball's chance in hell in this fixture, and it's testament to how far they've come that this is expected to be a real contest.

Ospreys have eight players in the starting XV born in 1990 or later, which highlights their youth.

They also have two superb talents in Justin Tipuric at openside flanker and Andrew Bishop at second centre. Those two players are key, and their presence should see the home team through, but Connacht could have a real rattle at this one.

Verdict: Ospreys to win by five

For all this weekend's Pro12 team news click here.

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Walden romps into International final

Keen runner Ricky Walden sprinted into the International Championship final as he moved one step away from the biggest title of his career.

The world number 11 stands to win €160,000 if he carries off the title in Chengdu, and should benefit from having a day off as Mark Allen and Mark Williams cue off for the right to tackle him in Sunday's final.

Chester-born Walden, who ran in the New York Marathon five years ago, brushed aside fellow Englishman Robert Milkins 9-2 with a commanding performance.

He notched breaks of 65, 107, 54, 87 and a match-clinching 74 as Gloucester-based Milkins struggled to make any headway.
This week's tournament offers the biggest top prize of any tournament held outside the United Kingdom, higher than any reward Walden has ever won.

The 2013 World Championship semi-finalist's success at the Chinese tournament comes as little surprise, given the 31-year-old has a history of saving his best performances for the country.
Walden's two previous world ranking titles both came in China, at the 2008 Shanghai Masters and 2012 Wuxi Classic.

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White ruled out for up to four months

Written By Unknown on Kamis, 30 Oktober 2014 | 23.06

Connacht prop Nathan White will miss Ireland's autumn Test series after rupturing a tendon in his upper arm in training with Joe Schmidt's squad.

The New Zealand-born tighthead faces surgery next week and could now be sidelined for as long as four months.

The 33-year-old was lined up for his international debut against South Arica next weekend. His absence further drains Ireland's already stretched front-row resources.

The former Leinster front-rower had been expected to understudy Mike Ross across the autumn series, with Marty Moore already out for three months after shoulder surgery.

Now head coach Schmidt and Ireland will be pinning hopes on Leinster's experienced front-rower Ross recovering from groin trouble as expected to shore up Ireland's scrum.

Leinster's 34-year-old scrum cornerstone Ross is expected to return to full training next week. With White the latest star to lengthen Ireland's injury glut, his return gains even greater importance.

The big-scrummaging Springboks would have looked to take on Ireland's set-piece even if the Aviva Stadium hosts were at full strength up front next weekend.

White's absence, allied to Moore's shoulder surgery, leaves Ireland short of experience at tighthead for the South Africa clash.

Schmidt had admitted he promoted White into the squad for his potential debut on the strength of his lengthy top-level club career, expecting the 33-year-old to handle Test intensity better than several promising but young and raw prospects.

Now the former Leinster coach must draw on Connacht's versatile front-rower Rodney Ah You and Munster's Stephen Archer as potential understudies to Ross.

Former schoolteacher Schmidt should at least be able to call on Jack McGrath at loosehead prop as he aims to step up his return from injury, offsetting somewhat Cian Healy's long-term absence.

Ireland will still be shorn of at least 15 stars for the visit of Heyneke Meyer's Springboks, however, before entertaining Georgia and then Australia across the three-Test Guinness series.

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The Rumble in the Jungle - 40 Years On

By Mark Staniforth

Over the last 40 years, the world heavyweight title has beaten an increasingly erratic and sadly inconsequential course.

It has traipsed its gaudy cloak through bust casino towns and dead-end leisure centres, and been contested in one spurious form or another on all five major continents.

It has survived so-called 'bite nights' and interruptions by errant para-gliders, and been claimed both by those who deserve to be called all-time greats, and others who, in the words of Larry Holmes, were not fit to carry their jockstraps.

In the thousands of rounds and hundreds of venues and forest-loads of hype and bluster that have followed it, the so-called 'richest prize in sport' has never again reached the heights it scaled on 30 October, 1974 in the African nation then known as Zaire.

It was about more than Muhammad Ali's audacious and some said ill-advised attempt to become the first man to win the heavyweight crown for a third time, three years after his previous bid ended in a savage 15-round loss to Joe Frazier in New York.

More than the expected anointing of a new superstar in Foreman, the savage-punching Texan who had scored an ominously impressive second-round knockout over Frazier to take the world title in Kingston, Jamaica the previous year.

More than the maniacal ego of a power-crazed dictator in Mobutu Sese Seko, a man so predisposed to splashing his nation's cash he would also build a Concorde-sized landing strip in the middle of the forest in order to facilitate his wife's shopping trips to Paris.

More, even, than the outrageous, opportunist vision of a newly shock-haired promoter in the shape of Don King.

It was the sum of all those parts and so much more: part sporting contest, part cultural festival, part global statement of black empowerment. It all added up to the Rumble In The Jungle - the most famous boxing match there was and ever will be.

Set aside the contest's extraordinary circumstances, and the plain fact of the match-up between Ali and Foreman would have been enough to seize attention across the world.

Ali still split opinion following his conviction for draft-dodging in 1967 and his conversion to Islam. He had lost to Ken Norton - and sustained a broken jaw in the process - the previous year, before a rematch win, and a gruelling decision over Frazier in January 1974, justified his return to title contention.

The surly, brooding Foreman, at 25 seven years younger than Ali, had waged a trail of destruction through the heavyweight ranks since turning professional after his gold medal win at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City.

Ali might have enchanted the media throng who followed him to Zaire with his vows to float like a butterfly, and his tall tales of wrestling alligators and tussling with whales, but few were prepared to predict he faced anything other than a painful career swansong at the behest of Foreman's powerful fists.

Few, that is, apart from the thousands of locals whom Ali enchanted during a one-month delay to the contest due to Foreman sustaining a cut eye in a sparring session.

While they saw in Foreman a symbol of oppression - he made one ill-advised visit clutching the leash of a German shepherd, the dogs used to contain crowds under the country's former hated Belgian rule - in Ali they embraced one of their own.

"Ali - booma ye!" they chorused - literally "Ali - kill him!" as he pounded the dust roads in the days and hours that ticked down to the 4am start time demanded in order to beam the fight live back to the United States.

Millions of words have already been written about the way Ali slammed two right hands to send Foreman swirling to the canvas in the dying seconds of the eighth round and win the world heavyweight title back for the third time at the age of 32.

As if the magnitude of that achievement was not enough, Ali's 'rope-a-dope' strategy drew astonished observers to label his performance one of the most audacious and ingenious tactical masterstrokes in sport.

Instead of seeking to impel his ageing limbs to dance away from Foreman's clubbing shots, Ali invited them in, tempting an increasingly frustrated Foreman to punch himself close to a virtual standstill, before pouncing to claim the most improbable of victories.

Hours later, the rains swept in, subjecting the 20th of May Stadium to such a sudden drenching it was as if the elements themselves refused to be denied their bit-part in such a night of improbable drama.

Forty years on, Ali clings to life through the awful fog of Parkinson's disease and the vanquished Foreman has made his fortune selling fat-reducing grills. Meanwhile the next world heavyweight title fight is slated for next month in a glorified sports hall in Hamburg.

But the story of the Rumble In The Jungle has been passed down generations and remains just as pertinent and as extraordinary as the night when Muhammad Ali underlined his status as 'The Greatest' deep in the dark heart of Africa.

"I done something new for this fight. I wrestled with an alligator. I tussled with a whale. I handcuffed lightning, I thrown thunder in jail. Only last week I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalised a brick. I'm so mean I make medicine sick.

"Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee - his hands can't hit what his eyes can't see" - Mohammad Ali

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Delaney says SFA response to ticket row 'a joke'

FAI chief executive John Delaney has labelled last night's Scottish FA statement "a joke" after they said they had done little wrong in terms of ticket allocation for next month's Euro 2016 qualifier in Glasgow.

Ireland have been given 5% of tickets - 3,209 seats - for the game at Celtic Park, with almost four times that number seeking tickets.

Of the tickets allocated to date, 1,700 have gone to supporters' clubs, season ticket holders, Club Ireland members and known away supporters. A further 700 went to clubs and leagues and another 600 to sponsors and contracted travel partners.

The remaining 200 were set aside for players, backroom team, FAI staff and team management.

Delaney, speaking on Today FM this morning, admitted to errors by the FAI in the distribution of the tickets for the 14 November fixture and promised a liaison officer will be appointed to deal with future issues arising over away tickets.

The Scottish Football Association statement issued in the aftermath of the FAI's comment yesterday said they felt they had done little wrong in the matter.

It read: "The match is now approaching a sell-out and we are releasing the last remaining restricted view seats via public sale to home fans.

"Given the demand for tickets from Scotland supporters, and the need to comply with UEFA's safety and security regulations, we will be unable to increase the Republic of Ireland's away allocation.

"We will have the appropriate measures in place to ensure that both sets of fans - renowned and revered around the world for their impeccable behaviour - enjoy what will be a hugely entertaining qualifying match, played before a full house at Celtic Park."

But Delaney hit back this morning, suggesting there could be potential security issues, with Irish fans now scattered around the stadium having purchased them on the SFA website.

"That's a joke," Delaney said on the SFA statement.

"They have admitted to us that they have sold tickets to Irish fans in the Scottish area. Even yesterday, they had promised us 3,200 tickets. They tried to take 75 of these away to try and increase the buffer zones.

"We had a battle with them yesterday to get 56 of those back.

"If they were sold out from Scottish fans, I'd accept that. But when they are not sold out and Irish fans are buying tickets in the Scottish area, I don't accept that. I don't think it was good manners by them to be honest with you."

He also expressed concern that the SFA had yet to deliver to the tickets to Abbotstown.

"We still haven't got the tickets yet. They physically haven't landed yet and the game is just a couple of weeks away."

Delaney explained that the delegation of tickets to supporters clubs meant that some fans that have travelled to many away matches missed out on tickets.

He admitted: "There certainly were mistakes made by us. Certain hardcore and loyal fans did not get tickets. I became aware and emails started to flood into me personally.

"We went out and bought 150 tickets personally at £125 sterling and we're selling them to those fans at £45 sterling, to try to rectify an error that was made.

"What we are going to do after this game is appoint a liaison officer who will deal directly with the away fans that do not want to join supporters groups.

"That will rectify it in the main going forward, but you will never get it right if you don't have enough tickets. You can't get it right.

"[Loyal support] should be rewarded and if there is a lesson for us, I accept that there are certain mistakes from our side.

"One of the guys inside in the FAI said to me the other day 'I took my eye off the ball' in certain cases and I have to accept that mistakes are made. What I tried to do in the Association was to rectify the situation over the weekend by buying corporate tickets at £125 and selling them back for £45."

Delaney said that he will be receptive to Scotland's requests for the Aviva Stadium clash next year in a bid to avoid Tartan Army fans entering the home sections in Dublin.

"I think we'll be more professional in our dealings with them. We'll see what their allocation applications are.

"I don't think there is any point in us reducing their allocation and having more Scots in the Irish section. We'll give them what is fair and deal with it in a neighbourly fashion and not in a manner in how they have dealt with us."

23.06 | 0 komentar | Read More

Miller time with Brisbane over

Former Ireland international Liam Miller has been released by his club Brisbane Roar amid rumours that the Cork man refused to play for the club's National Youth League side.

Miller was dropped after Brisbane's opening-day defeat to Adelaide and only managed 13 minutes of first-team football in the round two and three defeats to Perth and Sydney.

A story in the Courier Mail reported that Miller was expected to play for the club's NYL side and coaching staff had to make last-minute changes when the former Manchester United midfielder failed to show.

Roar coach Mike Mulvey then stated that Miller was struggling with a calf injury, which was the reason for the no-show.

"He's just not 100 per cent right at the moment," said Mulvey.

"He's still got an issue with his calf and it's not recovering properly.

"He's had that problem for a while now and we're hoping it fixes soon."

But the Queensland club has now confirmed that the former Celtic player had left the club by "mutual consent" and Miller was "granted an immediate release from the remainder of his contract to pursue other football opportunities".

Miller was an integral part of the Roar's Premiership and Championship-winning 2013/14 season and coach Mulvey has since thanked the Irishman for his contribution.

Mulvey said: "We brought Liam here to strengthen our squad and play good quality football – he was an integral part of our success as a squad last season and we thank him for his service to the club.

"It's always disappointing to lose a player of Liam's calibre but both player and club decided this was the best outcome. We wish him and his family all the best for his future."

The Cork man scored three times in 24 league appearances for the club since signing in May 2013.

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Vert De Grece slams rivals at Saint-Cloud

Vert De Grece ran out an impressive winner of the Group One Criterium International at Saint-Cloud as Roger Varian became just the second British-based trainer to win the juvenile contest.

The son of Verglas was making his first start for Varian, having previously been owned and trained by Joe Murphy.

Vert De Grece finished second at Leopardstown on debut before shedding his maiden tag next time out at the Dublin track, while another second-place finish behind Gleneagles in the Futurity Stakes at the Curragh was all the more meritorious as the runner-up was forced to make up ground from off the pace in a steadily-run affair.

Built and bred to perform best over trips in excess of the seven furlongs at which he had been exclusively campaigned, Umberto Rispoli's mount was sent off the 19-5 second favourite for the mile race at the Parisian track.

Vert De Grece pulled against a slow early tempo in the opening stages as Rispoli attempted to settle him in midfield, while Andrew Balding's Master Apprentice made the running under David Probert.

As the field migrated to the stands' rail in search of better ground entering the straight, Vert De Grece's stamina kicked in and he was pushed four lengths clear of his nearest pursuer crossing the line.

The John Gosden-trained Johnny Barnes did well to stay on into second, having also over-raced in the early stages, while German raider Sherlock claimed third.

Favourite Alea Iacta, who was attempting to become the first filly to ever win the race, moved as well as anything entering the straight, but her effort flattened in the closing stages as Maxime Guyon's mount weakened to finish fifth.

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Bianchi 'critical but stable' after Japan crash

Marussia driver Jules Bianchi remains "critical but stable" in hospital following his horrific accident at the Japanese Grand Prix earlier this month.

The 25-year-old Frenchman suffered a diffuse axonal injury to his brain, where the damage is more widespread, after crashing into a recovery vehicle at Suzuka almost four weeks ago, and underwent immediate surgery upon his arrival at the Mie General Medical Centre in Yokkaichi.

His condition remains unchanged almost a month later, his family revealed in a statement issued on the Marussia F1 Team website.

"It will be four weeks this coming Sunday since Jules' accident and he remains in the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi," it read.

"His condition continues to be classified by the medical professionals here as critical but stable. Although we have no new information to give, we recognise that there are a huge number of people all around the world who are supporting Jules and willing him on in his fight.

"We owe it to his many fans to acknowledge the continued outpouring of messages, and to provide some information, however brief it may be."

The driver's father, Philippe Bianchi, two weeks ago labelled his son's situation "desperate" and said it was "a miracle" he was still alive.

There had been suggestions Jules would be moved to Europe, but his family confirmed he will remain in Japan for the time being - and will "continue to fight".

"Jules does indeed continue to fight," the statement added.

"Although there have been some reports suggestive of plans for Jules' treatment, at this time his fight will continue here in Yokkaichi. We are taking things step by step.

"Once again, we would like to offer our sincere appreciation for the patience and understanding being shown towards our family at this very difficult time.

"We also continue to be comforted by the knowledge that Jules is receiving the best possible care at the Mie General Medical Center, with the doctors here remaining in constant contact with the neurosurgeons at the University La Sapienza of Rome, and professor Gerard Saillant, president of the FIA medical commission.

"We will provide a further update when it is appropriate to do so. In the meantime, thank you to everyone who continues to keep Jules in their thoughts and prayers."

Following an investigation into the cause of the crash, FIA race director Charlie Whiting concluded there was "a perfect storm" of conditions.

With heavy rain falling and the light fading, Bianchi smashed into the back of a recovery vehicle that at the time was removing the Sauber of Adrian Sutil, who had spun off the track and into a tyre barrier one lap previously.

Although the FIA is due to bring in new safety measures following the incident, Whiting further stated with regard to the incident "nothing could have been done better".

23.06 | 0 komentar | Read More

Rocket fires his way to quarter-finals in Chengdu

Written By Unknown on Rabu, 29 Oktober 2014 | 23.06

Five-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan continued his swift progress through the International Championship draw, beating Li Hang to reach the quarter-finals.

A second successive 6-1 win in Chengdu, having beaten Anthony McGill by the same scoreline, saw the 'Rocket' through to a clash with Mark Williams.

O'Sullivan flew through the first frame and was in first in the second, but a break of 88 saw Li come back to level at 1-1.

But a foul allowed O'Sullivan to take the third with a 90 break and he added the fourth with a 50.

A 40 break was enough to seal a scrappy fifth frame and take the World number four within two frames of victory.

He set up the next with a 63, Li's attempted fightback stalling on the green, and victory was completed with a 53.

He will play two-time world champion Williams, who followed up his success against Barry Hawkins with four half-century breaks in a 6-4 win over Sam Baird.

Northern Ireland's Mark Allen joined O'Sullivan in the last eight with a 6-4 victory over Stuart Bingham in China.

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McIlroy watches on as Race to Dubai heats up

Rory McIlroy will be an interested spectator as the first event of the European Tour's Final Series gets under way in China on Thursday.

McIlroy holds a commanding lead of more than three million points over Sergio Garcia as he looks to win the Race to Dubai and PGA Tour money list titles for the second time in three years.

However, the world number one is missing both the BMW Masters and WGC-HSBC Champions events in Shanghai in order to prepare for a court case with his former management company, increasing the admittedly slim possibility of being overhauled by the likes of Garcia and current European number one Henrik Stenson.

Garcia and Stenson will not be at Lake Malaren either this week, with the Spaniard opting to compete in the CIMB Classic in Malaysia on the PGA Tour instead, while Stenson withdrew following the birth of his third child on Sunday.

Each event in the Final Series has a prize pool of 10 million points with 1,666,600 going to the winner, while McIlroy is guaranteed to earn at least the 27,170 points on offer for last place in the season-ending DP World Tour Championship.

That will take the 25-year-old's total to just over €5.4million, meaning his rivals will need to have reached at least €3.8million before Dubai to have a chance of overhauling the four-time major winner.

For Garcia, who has committed to play in the HSBC Champions and the Turkish Airlines Open, that equates to a runner-up and top-five finish, while Stenson will need even better results to keep his hopes alive.

With so many points on offer, all of the top 20 players have a chance of being within striking distance of McIlroy with a first and second place finish over the next three weeks, but eighth-placed Justin Rose has other goals in mind.

The top 15 players after Dubai will share a bonus pool of 5million US dollars and Rose is also looking to move up from his current position of sixth in the world rankings.

"I'm not sure I can catch Rory but the bonus pool runs deep down to 15th and I want to strengthen my world ranking as much as possible," the 2013 US Open champion told a pre-tournament press conference.

"If I can play well and maybe win a couple of tournaments between now and the end of the season, I could probably get up to second in the world, which would be a personal best. So there's always something to play for."

Rose warmed up for the BMW Masters by beating Ryder Cup team-mate Ian Poulter in a match to mark the opening of a course they designed in Hainan, continuing his excellent match play form after being Europe's top points scorer at Gleneagles last month.

Poulter is a lowly 64th on the money list after just one top-five finish on the European Tour this season, but is looking to continue his impressive record in the Far East.

The 38-year-old was 15th at Lake Malaren last year and fourth in 2012, as well as having won in Shenzhen, Singapore and Hong Kong.

"I've got a decent record here in Asia," Poulter said. "I played very strong the back end of last year. I've played well on this golf course in the past, so I'm looking forward to getting going.

"I've been close here. I like the layout, I like the way it looks, and if the weather holds off for us and is kind then it's going to be a great week.

"The success over here obviously means that I've got a good following, and hopefully that may long continue."

23.06 | 0 komentar | Read More

Maturing Forrester ready to end FAI Cup wait

St Patrick's Athletic star Chris Forrester feels he has matured under the guidance of Liam Buckley this season, admitting he has been affected by watching scouts in the past.

The talented midfielder has attracted considerable attention from across the water, with a move to Bristol City falling through last year after manager Sean O'Driscoll departed when a deal was about to be struck.

Forrester will feature in this Sunday's FAI Cup final where Pat's will attempt to end a 53-year wait for the success in the competition – a match that will undoubtedly catch the attention of clubs in Britain.

Asked whether interest from England had entered into his thoughts ahead of big games in the past, he said this season his focus has been considerably improved.

"100% it hasn't this year," he told RTÉ Sport.

"Previous years it may have got to me a bit. I was a bit nervous out there knowing people were watching me and critiquing me in a way.

"But I haven't been bothered this year. I've let my football do the talking. I think I've matured an awful lot. Under Liam's guidance I have matured and he has allowed me to mature as well.

Pat's started 2014 as favourites to retain the SSE Airtricity Premier Division title but some mixed form early and in the middle of the season put the league crown out of their reach, despite a brilliant return of points in third series of games.

The former Bohemians player retains a belief that the Saints are the country's best outfit, even after falling short in the league to Dundalk and Cork City in the second place, and is grateful to have Sunday's final to attempt to prove their worth again.

"Dundalk have won the league and you can't argue with that. But for us, I think we have the best team."

"It has been an okay season and I'm happy with how it went. Losing the league to Dundalk was a bit upsetting but we've got to the Cup final and hopefully we can win that. We have got a European place as well. It has been an okay season individually and collectively for the team.

"Towards the start of the season we were not playing as well as we could. We lost games. We lost to Limerick in two games (and drew one) and those points may have been the difference. We have definitely under-achieved. Towards the end of the season we picked up and obviously got the Cup final. We are where we are now, feeling good and fit going into the game.

"I think we went over 10 games being unbeaten [prior to a loss to Athlone Town when third-place was all but secured]. All of the lads were fully fit at the time and we had a consistent team week in, week out. When we have our full team, for me, I think we're the best team in the league. Dundalk have won the league and you can't argue with that. But for us, I think we have the best team.

"I've probably been trying to get a little bit more consistency into my game. I haven't reached the targets I wanted to reach. I wanted to reach 15 goals and I've reached 12 – so unless I get a hat-trick on Sunday!"

Forrester, like many other Saints, has Cup misery in his past.

Sunday's final is a repeat of the 2012 decider where Derry came out on top in extra-time.

The 21-year-old spoke highly of the quality in the Candystripes camp and is wary of that dreaded feeling of defeat in the Aviva Stadium.

He said: "I don't want to feel that heartbreak again. You'll hear a lot of the fans talking about the 53-year hoodoo but I'm not concentrating on that. I'm concentrating on winning and that's all I want to do.

"As we found out two years ago, they have a lot of match winners in their team. Young Barry McNamee is a very good player, Rory Patterson can hurt us if he is given the chance. He did it two years ago.

"They have great attacking players like Michael Duffy and Patrick McEleney. McEleney is probably the best young player in the league, for me personally. We won't take them lightly. We'll give what we have and hopefully we come out as winners."

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Strong British bid for Criterium International

Runaway Leicester winner Johnny Barnes forms part of a four-pronged British challenge for the Group One Criterium International at Saint-Cloud on Thursday.

John Gosden's two-year-old looked a smart recruit when making a winning debut at Yarmouth in mid-August and although he fluffed his lines at Goodwood next time, he bounced back with a demolition of his rivals in the Leicester mud earlier this month.

The Acclamation colt carries the colours of Bermuda Thoroughbred Racing, a syndicate run by Highclere for Bermudian businessman Simon Scupham.

Mark Kershaw, who has previously managed Ayr, Musselburgh and Newbury racecourses and was heavily involved in the planning and opening of Ffos Las, works part-time for Highclere and will represent the team in France on Thursday.

Kershaw said: "It's very exciting and I think everyone was keen to have a go at it.

"I think a big part of the decision to travel is that we know he can go on soft ground and I understand conditions at Saint-Cloud will be very testing.

"It is a big step up in class and it is quite an ask, but John Gosden is very happy with the horse.

"He came out of Leicester very well and he's in great shape, so why not have a go?

"He's a talented horse."

Champion British trainer-elect Richard Hannon saddles Burnt Sugar, who was beaten just a length into fourth in the Group One Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp at the start of the month.

Andrew Balding runs Windsor winner Master Apprentice, while Vert De Grece makes his debut for Roger Varian to complete the British challenge.

Vert De Grece won a Leopardstown maiden before pushing the high-class Gleneagles close in the Futurity Stakes at the Curragh for Irish trainer Joe Murphy and has since switched yards having been bought in a private deal.

Varian said: "He's trained well for the last few weeks and his last run in Ireland behind Gleneagles was very good.

"We're going into a bit of an unknown in terms of the ground, but I think he deserves to take his chance in the race.

"If he can reproduce his last run, that would give him a chance."

Andre Fabre's Alea Iacta has won each of her two starts, including a Group Three over the course and distance, and is the likely favourite for the race.

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Departing Magician to miss defence of Turf title

Defending champion Magician has been ruled out of a repeat bid for glory in the Breeders' Cup Turf at Santa Anita on Saturday.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt beat The Fugue by a half a length last year in a pulsating renewal, cutting down John Gosden's filly in the shadow of the post under an inspired Ryan Moore after sitting off a strong early pace.

Magician has not run since finishing second in the Arlington Million in August, but hopes were high for another big effort on his favoured fast turf before he retires to Coolmore's Ashford Stud in Kentucky.

However, he was reported to be lame on Wednesday morning.

Coolmore spokesman Richard Henry said: "He is lame, he was examined by Dr Vince Baker and John Halley and won't run."

23.06 | 0 komentar | Read More

Grealish not in Ireland squad to face Scotland

Martin O'Neill has not included Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish in his 36-man provisional Republic of Ireland squad for the upcoming games against Scotland and USA.

Grealish, 19, has represented Ireland at underage level but has still not committed his international future to the Boys In Green, and is eligible for England, who are believed to be keen to secure his services.

Hull's uncapped Brian Lenihan is included, as is Glenn Whelan, who has an outside chance of regaining fitness after fracturing his leg in the 1-1 draw with Germany.

Wes Hoolahan, who was injured playing for Norwich, has been left out.

Shay Given is among five goalkeepers in the squad, which will be reduced ahead of the 10 November meet up.

Ireland face Scotland at Celtic Park on 14 November in Euro 2016 Group D, and then host the USA in the Aviva Stadium four days later.

O'Neill said: "I am looking forward to assembling the squad for the last time this year in preparation for our final games of 2014.

"I am absolutely delighted with the courage and determination we showed in our last two qualifiers, and hope we can continue this run next month against Scotland and the USA."

Republic of Ireland: David Forde (Millwall), Shay Given (Aston Villa), Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday), Darren Randolph (Birmingham City), Rob Elliot (Newcastle United), Richard Keogh (Derby County), Marc Wilson (Stoke City), Seamus Coleman (Everton), John O'Shea (Sunderland), Alex Pearce (Reading), Brian Lenihan (Hull City), Stephen Kelly (Reading), Paul McShane (Hull City), Damien Delaney (Crystal Palace), Shane Duffy (Blackburn Rovers), James McCarthy (Everton), Jeff Hendrick (Derby County), Ciaran Clark (Aston Villa), Stephen Ward (Burnley), Glenn Whelan (Stoke City), Darron Gibson (Everton), Paul Green (Rotherham United), Aiden McGeady (Everton), Anthony Pilkington (Cardiff City), James McClean (Wigan Athletic), Robbie Brady (Hull City), Stephen Quinn (Hull City), David Meyler (Hull City), Robbie Keane (LA Galaxy), Shane Long (Southampton), Daryl Murphy (Ipswich Town), Jon Walters (Stoke City), Kevin Doyle (Crystal Palace), Anthony Stokes (Celtic), Simon Cox (Reading), Conor Sammon (Ipswich Town)

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Murphy to captain Ireland in Australia

Written By Unknown on Selasa, 28 Oktober 2014 | 23.06

Ireland International Rules manager Paul Earley has named his 25-man panel for the upcoming Test against Australia with Donegal's Michael Murphy captaining the side for the second time.

In total 15 counties are represented across the 25-man panel.

Mayo lead the way with four home-based players included as well as Brisbane Lions' Pearse Hanley - the only AFL-based player included in the visitors panel.

The team management have also confirmed that Cork's Aidan Walsh will fill the role of vice-captain.

Ireland face Australia at Patterson's Stadium in Perth on 22 November and depart for Australia on 12 November.

Their itinerary also includes a warm-up game in Melbourne against a VFL selection on Sunday 16 November.

Earley said: "I'm pleased to confirm the 25 players who will represent Ireland in the latest series and we travel to Australia anticipating a very strong challenge from the hosts.

"The players who we have chosen have worked hard in recent weeks and and have shown many of the attributes that we hope will allow us to build on some of the promising aspects of last year's series performances.

"As a group we are looking forward to showcasing all that is good about Gaelic football while representing Ireland."

Ireland hammered Australia by an aggregate score of 101 points last year, but the hosts have named a stronger squad for this year's one-off Test.

In the history of the sport, Ireland have nine series wins, with Australia one behind, and looking to level the record books in 2014.

Ireland panel: Colm Begley (Laois), Colm Boyle (Mayo), Seán Cavanagh (Tyrone), Cathal Cregg (Roscommon), Mattie Donnelly (Tyrone), Finian Hanley (Galway), Pearse Hanley (Brisbane Lions), Darren Hughes (Monaghan), Lee Keegan (Mayo), James McCarthy (Dublin), Ciaran McDonald (Tipperary), Neil McGee (Donegal), Chrissy McKaigue (Derry), Kevin McKernan (Down), Kevin McLoughlin (Mayo), Conor McManus (Monaghan), David Moran (Kerry), Niall Morgan (Tyrone), Ross Munnelly (Laois), Michael Murphy (Donegal, captain), Colm O'Neill (Cork), Pádraig O'Neill (Kildare), Paddy O'Rourke (Meath), Aidan O'Shea (Mayo), Aidan Walsh (Cork, vice-captain).

GAAGO, the international subscription-based online streaming service from the GAA and RTÉ, is the Irish International Rules team sponsor.

The sponsorship will see GAAGO.ie adorn the Irish team jerseys and leisurewear.

The streaming service, which is available outside the island of Ireland, has allowed Gaelic games enthusiasts living, working or travelling abroad to watch games in over 150 countries throughout the 2014 football and hurling championships.

Subscribers can watch games live and on-demand in high definition on their desktop computer, laptop or mobile device and has had a huge take-up in Australia to date.

All 2014 GAAGO Season and GB Pass holders will have free access to a live stream of the International Rules Test with thanks to our friends in the AFL and their streaming partners watchafl.com.au.

23.06 | 0 komentar | Read More

Faro confirmed as venue for Gibraltar v Ireland

Gibraltar have confirmed that next September's home Euro 2016 qualifier with the Republic of Ireland will be played in Faro, Portugal, quashing speculation that the game would be moved to London.

The Gibraltar FA revealed problems it had with using the Estadio do Algarve in Portugal have been addressed and said it is now committed to playing all games in the group in the stadium.

"The two issues of concern regarding the continued use of the Estadio do Algarve have now been resolved to the GFA's satisfaction," a statement read.

"Concerns over VAT and other tax issues have been resolved following discussions with the Portuguese FA, Portuguese tax authorities and UEFA.

"Concerns over security arrangements have also been resolved after the GFA contracted a new security company to deal with security at the stadium on match-days.

"The new company performed satisfactorily during the recent match versus Georgia and the feedback received by the GFA from our supporters was very positive in that respect.

"Furthermore, the GFA had also received representations from the German, Irish and Scottish FAs on behalf of German, Irish and Scottish fans who had already booked flights and made accommodation arrangements in Portugal. The GFA will now provide those FAs with assurances that the matches will take place in Portugal.

"Given all these considerations, the GFA is content to continue using the Estadio do Algarve as our 'home' stadium, until such time as there is a stadium in Gibraltar which meets with UEFA's approval for the hosting of competitive international matches."

Gibraltar have already played Poland and Georgia in the near-empty stadium, suffering heavy defeats.

Ireland recorded a 7-0 win against the minnows at the Aviva Stadium with the return clash set for Friday 4 September 2015.

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Quinn: Team ethic was crucial to victory

St Vincent's full-forward Tomás Quinn has praised his side's team ethic following their Dublin SFC final victory over St Oliver Plunkett's.

Vincent's narrow 0-14 to 1-10 victory ensured their 26th title and Quinn attributed the win to their collective group effort.

He told RTÉ Sport: "You don't really give it a thought as a personal achievement. We go out to win as a team. I suppose that's all you take from it.

"Playing team sports is what we do and it's the beauty of winning with 34 other guys and the management. It's just the end of a beautiful weekend really, and a great weekend for the club.

"Diarmuid [Connolly] won an All-Star [on] Friday night. Couple of guys – Nathan Mullins, Neil Billings [came] back from long-term injuries and back training with us Saturday.

"We all just came in here tonight feeling good."

Plunkett's came within a whisker of snatching a draw and forcing extra-time, having scored an unanswered 1-02 late in the second half, and Quinn admitted Vincent's were relieved to come out on top.

"The goal gave them a great lift and they got a point just after it, and in the end we were hanging on," said Quinn.

"We were happier to get full-time. Any time it comes down to a point game, when you're one up you're praying for the whistle, when you're one down you're hoping for a few minutes longer.

"It was tough but we just trusted the work we've done all year.

"There's been a lot of close games in the last 12 months. We trust we've got guys who want the ball in the last few minutes to make good decisions, and that's what happened."

23.06 | 0 komentar | Read More

Easterby perfect fit for Ireland, says Davies

Simon Easterby boasts the "ruthless focus" to thrive in Joe Schmidt's Ireland set-up, according to his Scarlets coaching mentor Nigel Davies.

Former Gloucester boss Davies has tipped Ireland's new forwards coach to handle his quickfire transition to the international arena.

Easterby left his head coach post at the Scarlets after just two years at the helm to replace John Plumtree in boss Schmidt's backroom staff in July.

Davies handed Easterby his first steps into coaching at the Scarlets and believes the ex-Ireland flanker exudes the same qualities that have marked out Schmidt's own impressive career.

"I was just starting my own coaching period when Simon joined us from Leeds," Davies told PA Sport.

"He was a very dedicated young man, very focused and ruthless in his pursuit of being the best.

"Simon was an exceptional player for the Scarlets and Ireland and very, very disruptive; very much the modern-day rugby player, especially in the contact area.

"And he would do anything for his team-mates.He was very effective in what he did.

"So he always had that and he's always had that mentality.He's taken that ruthless focus forward and used it in his transition to coaching.

"Joe Schmidt is similarly single-minded, so I think it will work well.

"When I was defence coach at the Scarlets Simon was struggling with a couple of long-term injuries, so he started to work a little bit alongside me.

"It was very clear, very early on that he had all the qualities and abilities to make a top coach.

"He's passionate about success and he always drives himself hard. So he's used those qualities to help motivate and develop players under his watch."

Former Lions flanker Easterby won 65 caps before switching to coaching with the Scarlets, eventually succeeding Davies as head coach at the Welsh region.

Just two years into his stint as boss in west Wales, Ireland and head coach Schmidt came calling, but Davies said any inexperience will not hinder the 39-year-old's progress.

Easterby faces his first serious international challenge next month as Ireland take on South Africa, Georgia and Australia in the autumn's Guinness Test series.

Former Wales attack coach Davies said the meticulous Schmidt will not have taken any gamble in adding Easterby to his staff.

"Simon's still very young and relatively inexperienced, so it's a great opportunity for him, he'll learn a lot at the real sharp-end of the game," said Davies.

"But he's capable. He'll manage it, deal with it and learn quickly.

"And I'm sure his career will blossom even further.

"Joe is very much a thinking coach, he doesn't always come at things head-on - he thinks laterally.

"I'm sure his career will blossom even further"

"He's very bright and I think this is exactly the kind of decision I would expect him to make, he's thought laterally about who can do the job, who is respected within Ireland, who can he maybe help develop a little bit further, and who will he have trust in.

"And when he's looked at all those qualities Simon fits the bill very well.

"And I think he'll work hard with Simon to turn him very quickly into a top coach.

"It has come early in his career, but when you've got someone who thinks as laterally as Joe, then it makes perfect sense."

23.06 | 0 komentar | Read More

Russia and Ukraine to be kept apart at World Cup

Russia and Ukraine will be put into different groups at the 2018 World Cup finals if the Ukrainians qualify and relations between the two countries do not improve, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said.

"You can be sure about this," said the head of world soccer when asked by R-Sport agency whether the two teams would be kept apart given the current poor political climate with Kiev accusing Moscow of backing Russian separatists in the east of Ukraine.

Blatter, who was on a visit to Moscow for the unveiling of Russia's official World Cup emblem, said political situations around the world should not have an impact on sport. There have been calls to move the 2018 tournament to a different country due to Russia's conflict with Ukraine.

"A boycott never achieves anything and does not have a positive effect. FIFA is fully supporting the World Cup in Russia," said the 78-year-old.

"When we received letters from North America, we answered that this is football. We believe in the country (Russia) and their government.

"The mass media should help us with this. We have experienced such things in the past at the Sochi Olympics. However, during and after the (Winter) Games there was not one bad word written about the event.

"Russia is the world's biggest country. You know, Russia is in the focus of the world press. Football cannot only unite Russia, but can also show the whole world that it is stronger than any protest movement," he said.

23.06 | 0 komentar | Read More

Swail nails Robertson to progress in China

Antrim's Joe Swail took the notable scalp of world number two Neil Robertson as he and Mark Allen progressed to the last 16 of the International Championship in China.

The 45-year-old, ranked 71, fought back from 5-3 down to win the last three frames and claim a 6-5 win.

Swail, who had lost his professional status two years ago before regaining it, will now meet England's Ricky Walden, who beat China's Zhou Yuelong, 6-5.

Allen also made it to round three with a 6-4 win over Martin Gould.

The win sets up a rematch with Stuart Bingham, who defeated Allen in the final of the Shanghai Masters last month.

Dubliner Fergal O'Brien was beaten 6-1 by Liverpudlian Rod Lawler.

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UCD and Galway battle for Premier place

Written By Unknown on Senin, 27 Oktober 2014 | 23.06

UCD host Galway FC at the UCD Bowl tonight in the first of two games that will decide which team will be playing Premier Division football next season.

Conor Cannon was the hero for UCD on Friday after his first-half goal was enough to give UCD a 1-0 win against Drogheda United, a win that kept the Students' season alive.

Aaron Callaghan knows his side will face a big test against Galway, but is hopeful they will have enough over the two legs to maintain their top-flight status.

"Galway will be full of confidence going into this play-off having just beaten Shelbourne; however, after two clean sheets and two wins in a row the players are in good form and their confidence has returned," Callaghan said.

The two sides met earlier in the season in the Ford FAI Cup at the UCD Bowl, Galway emerging 3-1 winners that night. UCD will be hoping for a better performance this time around, and it looks set to be a cracking game.

UCD will be without Dean Clarke who is still recovering from a back injury.

Suspensions have hit the UCD side at the wrong time with midfield duo Robbie Benson and Robbie Creevy set to miss out after they picked up their fourth yellow card of the season in last week's game against Derry City.

Callaghan will serve the final game of his three-game touchline suspension.

Galway come into the game on the back of a successful two-legged play-off against Shelbourne and will be hoping that experience stands to them against the Students.

Tommy Dunne's side claimed a 2-0 victory at home in the first leg against Shelbourne before beating the Dublin side 2-1 in the return leg.

"We were delighted to come through it. Shelbourne are a strong team and a club with a lot of tradition. For us to get to the play-off final, it was a fantastic achievement," Dunne said.

"Now we go to UCD, they're no strangers to us. With them being the Premier Division club I'd imagine they're favourites, but we're hoping we can achieve our goal of trying to get promoted.

"We know what's in front of us, UCD have got good players and staff and some fantastic facilities.

"We played UCD back in June so it's a bit down the road. I think both teams have moved on since then, albeit, we did put in a good performance that day.

"I do think that this game is a bit more serious than the cup. Playing against UCD on Monday will bring up a different set of circumstances and challenges. I hope we can deal with them. We will do our best to keep fully concentrated over the 180 minutes or whatever it may be."

Stephen Walsh and Alex Byrne are both rated as highly doubtful to be fit enough for the game, both players will undergo late fitness tests ahead of the game. Meanwhile Aaron McDonagh (appendix) is ruled out again.

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Ryan set to succeed O'Shea as Tipp boss

Michael Ryan looks set to succeed Eamon O'Shea as Tipperary hurling manager at the end of next season.

The Tipperary County Board has confirmed that O'Shea will remain on for one more season, but said a recommendation that Ryan succeed him will go before a full county board meeting later this week.

O'Shea met Tipperary officials last week to confirm he would be staying on for another year at least.

County officials and O'Shea had met on a couple of occasions over the past month as O'Shea, who has been manager since September 2012, mulled over his future following the All-Ireland final replay defeat to Kilkenny.

Ryan was part of Tipperary's All-Ireland-winning team of 1991 as a player, and more recently was a selector for Liam Sheedy's All-Ireland-winning side of 2010. He has been part of O'Shea's back-room staff since 2012.

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PODCAST: Munster push on as Ulster hopes fade

Bernard Jackman and Donal Lenihan join Hugh Cahill and Wes Liddy to reflect on the second round of the European Rugby Champions Cup and how the performances of the provinces might influence the thoughts of Ireland coach Joe Schmidt ahead of the November Internationals.

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Too victorious in Dublin Marathon

Kenya's Eliud Too has won the 35th Dublin Marathon in a time of 2:14:47.

Too's compatriot Esther Wanjiru Macharia took victory in the women's event in 2:34:15; she was followed home by last year's women's winner, Ireland's Maria McCambridge, who ran 2:34:19.

Moldava's Sergiu Ciobanu was the first Irish-based man across the finish line in 2:21:01.

Patrick Monaghan from Naas claimed victory in the wheelchair race.

GALLERY - IMAGES FROM THE 35TH DUBLIN MARATHON

Dublin Marathon

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Rhode's Sullivan lauds band of brothers

Rhode captain Pauric Sullivan lauded his side's defensive ability in seeing off St Patrick's at O'Connor Park in Tullamore in the Leinster club SFC.

Speaking to RTÉ Sport after the Offaly champions' 2-08 to 0-09 win, Sullivan said it had been "a dogged game. We knew what they were going to bring to the table: a very rough, hard-hitting, direct team."

He singled out as a highlight Rhode's defensive efforts as they protected a six-point lead.

"We had that six-point cushion, and we could have blocked it up, try and keep a barrier between the goals," he said. "If they got in around three then we were in a kind of itchy situation. But we held tight, the boys dug deep and ground it out."

O'Sullivan also noted the contribution of a small number of sets of brothers, and pointed out that Rhode was quite a small club that was very fortunate to have such a high concentration of talent.

As well him and his two brothers – Anton Sullivan scored one of his side's goals, and Shane came on as a substitute - Rhode featured a set of Garry (Kenneth and Darren), McNamee (Niall and Alan) and McPadden (twins James and Paul) brothers.

"It's a small village," Sullivan said. "It's basically only a crossroads. We're blessed to have the talent we have and the desire we have. Hopefully we can keep it together [and take] run at this competition and see where it takes us."

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Moorefield's middle-third performance was key

Moorefield manager Luke Dempsey has hailed his team's performance in the middle third as being key to their victory in the Kildare football championship final.

The victory came courtesy of a 1-14 to 1-06 scoreline over Sarsfields and Dempsey spoke to RTÉ Sport after the game: "They're such a mature group of players and the fact that we had the wind in the first half, I just felt as long as Sarsfields don't kick on and maybe get two or three points [we would be okay].

"They didn't do that, and we used the wind to our advantage and created lots of chances.

"We kept plugging away until a period when we were very dominant.

"And we went into the half-time break five points up, which in a club match, despite the fact they had the wind in the second half, is still substantial given the way we were playing.

"And I thought in the middle third from 5-12 we were totally dominant, with our full-back mopping up what wasn't being mopped by our 5, 6 and 7."

"We kept plugging away until a period when we were very dominant"

The victory gives Moorefield two Kildare championships in succession, and Dempsey didn't hold back when assessing how momentous this achievement was.

He said: "It's extra special in a county like Kildare. I have to specify that, because it's not Roscommon - where you expect St Brigid's. It's not Offaly - where you expect Rhode. And there's a few counties that are gone like that a bit.

"In Kildare you have at least five clubs minimum [competing for the football title].

"Like Carberry, Sarsfields, Celbridge, and Athy got to the league final, and ourselves.

"It's a tough championship to win. We got beaten by Athy in a replay, it was the makings of us, because we realised that we were still up to the tempo.

"Athy had a marvellous team this year and put in a huge effort to win the county title. And we knew that to go in the backdoor, which we did, we knew we were up to the tempo.

"Subsequently we were put to the pin of our collar by a very good Johnstownbridge team and a very good Celbridge team who won the league. But we still stood the test.

"Meanwhile, Athy got beaten by Sarsfields and we met again. For two clubs from the same town in a county with such tradition of good football clubs to get to the final, a lot of praise has to go to both clubs, because it's the way the club is run, it's the attitude of players in clubs that get to county finals.

"In certain clubs, players have an attitude, 'I'm just going to tog out for my club and that will do.'

"But in Sarsfields and in any of the clubs I just mentioned there's a very professional approach by the players and hopefully we can bring that and show Leinster that professionalism.

"We nearly did last year and we were robbed by Portlaoise, we just didn't play as well as we could have.

"Hopefully we can show the Leinster supporters we have it in us to get to a Leinster [final]. Because usually it's the Dublin champions who are dominant."

Next up is Rathnew in the Leinster championship quarter-finals on 9 November and Dempsey is relishing the test his side will face, saying: "Every club that wins a county title are excellent football teams and Rathnew is no different. What an excellent team in Wicklow.

"Tommy Gill comes to mind, with some other great players from the past. I know Tommy personally and his attitude will be no different to any Moorefield player. We'll go down there with our homework done."

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Celtic ease to victory over 10-man Kilmarnock

Written By Unknown on Minggu, 26 Oktober 2014 | 23.06

Celtic 2-0 Kilmarnock

Celtic leapfrogged Kilmarnock into fourth place in the Premiership with a 2-0 win over the 10-man Ayrshire side at Parkhead.

Swedish striker John Guidetti scored his fifth goal in seven games in the 35th minute with a 25-yard free-kick awarded when Killie skipper Manuel Pascali's 'last man' foul on Stefan Scepovic earned him a red card from referee Willie Collum.

It was the turning point in a match in which hitherto Killie had been the equal of their hosts.

Rugby Park manager Alan Johnston immediately sacrificed his mercurial midfielder Alexei Eremenko for defender Lee Ashcroft and thereafter the Ayrshire men concentrated their efforts on keeping the champions at bay.

Hoever, Scepovic scored the second with a shot in the 63rd minute and the Hoops ran out easy winners although the extra man advantage they enjoyed for a large part of the game makes proper analysis tricky.

Much of the attention on the match, from a Parkhead perspective, was on Celtic's two-man strikeforce given that manager Ronny Deila has preferred one attacking midfielder off the main striker.

Guidetti, ineligible for the 2-1 Europa League game against Astra at Celtic Park on Thursday night as he was not registered in time following his loan move from Manchester City, returned to partner Scepovic who scored his first goal for the Hoops against the Romanian side since signing from Sporting Gijon in the summer.

Right-back Adam Matthews and winger Mubarak Wakaso were also drafted in as Mikael Lustig and Charlie Mulgrew started on the bench and Anthony Stokes dropped out altogether.

The Rugby Park men, who had won their last three games despite being involved in a bonus dispute with club's board, started positively.

Eremenko took out the whole Hoops defence in the fifth minute with a fine pass but wide-man Tope Obadeyi lost his race with Celtic goalkeeper Craig Gordon and the home side eventually cleared their lines.

Before Scepovic headed a Stefan Johansen corner into the side-netting in the 24th minute, Celtic had not seriously threatened Conor Brennan, although moments later the Killie keeper made a decent save from Wakaso's header from Callum McGregor's deep cross.

At the other end Gordon did well to parry away a powerful drive from Eremenko but as it transpired that was the Finn's last contribution.

Pascali's battle with Guidetti had been an interesting sub-plot but it was when he prevented Scepovic going clean through on goal from a McGregor pass that Collum reached for the red card.

Eremenko was not best pleased at being replaced by Ashcroft and he had hardly taken his place in the dugout when Guidetti, from 25 yards, curled a wonderful free-kick into the far corner of the net.

Losing arguably their best player, their captain and a goal in the same incident turned the game firmly in the Parkhead side's favour and they tried to bury Killie before the break.

Scepovic's curling shot from 16 yards in the 39th minute beat Brennan but was headed clear off the line by Mark Connolly before the increasingly busy keeper made a fine save from Guidetti's shot on the turn from the edge of the box moments later.

Ominously for Killie, Scepovic forced Brennan into another block with a drive on the turn before a minute of the second half had elapsed.

On a blustery day in the east end of Glasgow there was no let-up in the wind, rain or the Celtic pressure.

Guidetti smashed a drive off the post in the 56th minute before making Brennan save another shot seconds later but the Killie defence was exposed again when Wakaso's deep cross to the back post found Scepovic who knocked his volley back across the Killie keeper and into the net

Minutes later, the Serb pounced on a slack Sammy Clingan pass back but his lob from the edge of the box could not beat Brennan.
The Hoops striker was immediately replaced by Leigh Griffiths, as Mulgrew came on for Johansen and the procession towards the Killie goal continued.

Amid several near misses for the home side, Ashcroft's lunging block prevented Matthews' drive getting through on goal but the game petered out in the final stages.

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Skrtel insists Reds believe in Balotelli

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel feels sorry for Mario Balotelli as the striker's struggles continue.

Balotelli has still not scored in the Barclays Premier League since joining the Reds in a £16million deal in August.

His luckless run continued as Hull frustrated the Merseysiders to claim a goalless draw in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday.

Balotelli was far from the worst player on the pitch, producing a committed display which offered encouragement after some of his heavily criticised efforts of recent weeks.

But coming after the controversy of midweek, when he was seen swapping shirts at half-time of the 3-0 loss to Real Madrid, the spotlight was on him.

That meant his lack of goals was again highlighted and the spurned stoppagey-time chance, when Eldin Jakupovic denied him at point-blank range, commanded a lot of headlines.

A bookmaker also ridiculed Balotelli's lack of output, offering fans outside the ground the chance to trade in shirts bearing his names for different ones in a publicity stunt.

But Skrtel came to the Italian's defence, saying: "He is working hard and showed some good moments. I feel sorry for him. He is working hard in training, he is working hard in the game. He just hasn't got the goals.

"We just believe in him. We will be supporting him and just hope he will start scoring goals."

Liverpool's performance was patchy but they had some good spells, notably in the first and last 15 minutes, and Balotelli was at the fore.

He brought a good early save from Hull's third-choice goalkeeper Jakupovic, took up good positions, worked hard off the ball and had a penalty appeal turned down. He almost settled the game in dramatic circumstances in the fourth minute of injury time when he got on the end of a Philippe Coutinho cross but Jakupovic blocked.

Coutinho had himself been denied by Jakupovic moments earlier and Raheem Sterling shot narrowly wide. Steven Gerrard and Dejan Lovren also had good chances for Brendan Rodgers' men.

Hull's best spell came in the latter stages of the first half when Jake Livermore, Mohamed Diame and Tom Huddlestone had chances.

It was another frustrating result for Liverpool, who have won just four of their nine games and Skrtel took little satisfaction from an improved defensive showing.

The Slovakia international said: "It is normal when you are conceding goals that the back four and the keeper will always be the first to be blamed.

"We fixed it, we got a clean sheet, but we couldn't get the three points, so that's not good enough. We played for the points. We could have won and it's disappointing.

"I would have preferred to win 5-4 and get three points than draw 0-0 and get a point.

"I think we played well and just couldn't score the goal."

For Hull, who have had to deal with a clutch of injuries, the result was another encouraging one after last week's point at Arsenal.

Midfielder Ahmed Elmohamady felt it was further proof of the club's continuing development, with the squad's greater depth now allowing the Tigers to compete with the top sides on a regular basis.

The Egypt international said: "Everyone in the squad is absolutely fantastic. We missed (Michael) Dawson, Jela (Nikica Jelavic), (Steve) Harper, Allan McGregor - but all the players came and did fantastic.

"Everyone is working hard to get their chance in the team and we worked very hard.

"We are looking forward to every game to get a result, home or away, even against the tough teams.

"That's two games in a row against top-four teams and we are looking forward to the next game at home now, against another tough team in Southampton. We are looking forward to getting the three points.

"We should have scored in the first half here and we had two or three chances but we will take a point. The performance was absolutely fantastic."

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